I have started a new practice of reading a Psalm every morning. I choose from different versions of Bibles. Sometimes the NRSV, The Message and I choose others as well. I am very fortunate to have Logos Bible Software and have so many Bibles available to me.
Today I was looking at Psalm 4 from The Message. It started me thinking about being satisfied. In the Psalm, the psalmist speaks of having more from God in a single day, than others get from all of their shopping sprees. What is satisfying enough to us? I come from a generation of people who need the latest in everything. I too have a hard time not slipping back to that attitude of greed vs. having an attitude of gratitude in what I am gifted from God.
All that we are, all that we need, all that we should desire is provided by God. Yet it is so easy in this world, surrounded by attitudes and advertising of, get what you deserve (you need more), to being grateful for what we are given. Focus upon God, keep Christ at the center and realize that what we have is more precious than all the kingdoms in the world, all the gold in the world, all of ANYTHING in the world. We have forgiveness in Christ and everlasting life with the Father, Son and Spirit!
Psalm 4
The Message Bible
When I call, give me answers. God, take my side!
Once, in a tight place, you gave me room;
Now I’m in trouble again: grace me! hear me!
2 You rabble—how long do I put up with your scorn?
How long will you lust after lies?
How long will you live crazed by illusion?
3 Look at this: look
Who got picked by God!
He listens the split second I call to him.
4–5 Complain if you must, but don’t lash out.
Keep your mouth shut, and let your heart do the talking.
Build your case before God and wait for his verdict.
6–7 Why is everyone hungry for more? “More, more,” they say.
“More, more.”
I have God’s more-than-enough,
More joy in one ordinary day
7–8 Than they get in all their shopping sprees.
At day’s end I’m ready for sound sleep,
For you, God, have put my life back together.
