Boundless GratitudeSample

Reason #2: He Satisfies and Fills

Do you ever find yourself in a store’s greeting card section searching for the perfect birthday or special occasion card? Often, we are looking for what communicates the ideal message we lack the skillset to say ourselves lyrically or at least in good taste. The Psalmist is doing what you and I are unable to accomplish concerning thanksgiving. He gives words to elicit gratitude for all God has done amid hardship and various calamities.

This first situation finds someone hungry and thirsty. I don’t know if you have experienced it for yourself, but one of my adopted daughters has been so hungry, she has consumed the shirt off her back. Most have not taken to satisfying hunger rumblings with their wardrobe. But resorting to the last can of tuna in the pantry is not out of the realm of possibility.

The picture painted for us is of someone longing for what they need. Every direction tried has been the wrong one. The plate is still empty. What develops is a great sense of loss, confusion, and loneliness. A chasm emerges within until the person can bear it no longer. Something has to give. When there is no one else to talk to, and the options yield no fruit, they cried out to God in their distress.

Typical, isn’t it? When we are left to take a bite out of our shirt sleeve, we finally get to God. After expending every other option, we cry out to what we cannot see because, truthfully, we’re unsure it will make a difference. But then, all we’ve got left is our empty tuna can, so we do exactly what this person does.

God meets the physical needs, as well as bringing a straight path in this scenario. No more confusion.

Are you taking in what is happening? God is not stopping at the bare necessities. He does not offer a t-shirt. The all-satisfying Father fills this lost and starving person with good things. My thoughts about God assume He will be stingy and satisfied to watch me starve. No. God shows up like gangbusters. This good God knows how to satisfy and fill when you and I cry out to Him in our genuine need. For this, we can be grateful. 

How has God satisfied and filled you for which you can be grateful today?