Forty Days in the Psalmsಮಾದರಿ

Many of our electronics have something called default settings. Over time, we may edit the original settings so much that it stops working correctly. You then have the option to open the settings and restore it to its default settings.

I (Shawn) once heard a preacher ask, “What do you think about when you’re not thinking about anything?” In other words, what is the default setting of your mind? Great question. In that default setting of the mind, we often find our idols. Those worries or temptations that come up when we aren’t occupied with more immediate responsibilities reveal the default settings of our hearts.

Psalm 9 is meant to be instructive to the heart. It was written in the original language following an acrostic pattern, with each stanza beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. And where does King David, the author begin? With thanksgiving.

"I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds." (Psalm 9:1)

Is the default setting of your mind worry or gratitude? Is it complaining or thanks? What if you and I could restore the default setting of our mind to gratitude? How would life change for us? The idols of the heart that need to go would fade in their power over us.

RESPOND IN PRAYER:

After you read this Psalm, count at least ten things you can be grateful for. Decide to begin your prayer each day by recounting your blessings. Not just one and done, but a daily recounting of your blessings.