Psalm 145:9-16 - The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord, and all your saints shall bless you! They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom and tell of your power, to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. The Lord is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works. The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.

This passage from Psalm 145 declares the goodness and mercy of God towards all of creation. Though all of creation is fallen, God continues to uphold it by His word, providing food and sustaining life itself (vv. 15-16). God's goodness and mercy are not just abstract attributes, but rather permeate all of His actions. His kingdom rule is righteous, faithful, and kind (vv. 13, 17). He upholds the falling, lifts up the oppressed, hears cries, fulfills desires, preserves those who love Him (vv. 14, 17-20). Even His judgment against the wicked demonstrates His goodness. Moreover, God's goodness and mercy elicit praise from all creation. His works praise Him (v. 10) and His saints bless Him (v. 10), speaking of His eternal kingdom and mighty power (vv. 11-13). Just as He upholds all of creation, the eyes of all creation look to Him (v. 15). He satisfies the desire of every living thing (v. 16). As the psalmist declares, God alone is good in the ultimate sense (Luke 18:19). His goodness and mercy are the foundation for all the praise due His name.

This passage is a powerful reminder that despite living in a fallen world filled with suffering, we serve a good and merciful God who upholds all of creation. His eternal kingdom shall triumph over evil. It convicts me when I complain about petty inconveniences. My desire for comfort and security often blinds me to God's mercy towards me each day. Whether through food on my table or air in my lungs, His hand sustains me. I take for granted blessings that much of the world longs for. How can I reflect God's goodness and mercy to others? He calls me to uphold the oppressed, hear cries, and satisfy desires—meeting both physical and spiritual needs of those around me. My time, money and talents should serve the vulnerable. Let this passage lead us to praise and thanks. Despite hardships in this life, God's goodness and mercy endure forever. We can trust His righteous and kind plans, even when we don't understand. Fixing our eyes on Him provides strength for today and hope for eternity.

Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your abundant goodness and mercy! Thank You for upholding us and all of creation by Your mighty power. Forgive us for complaining amidst blessing. Renew our hearts to reflect Your kindness each day. Use us to uphold the oppressed and satisfy the needs of others. May our eyes remain fixed on You as we walk in hope of Your eternal kingdom. We bless Your righteous name! Amen.