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 creation. Though all fall short of God's glory, He upholds and sustains all people. His kingdom rules over all and His dominion endures forever. The psalmist first establishes that God is good to all and His mercy extends to everything He has made (v.9). All of creation depends on God for provision and care. God then deserves the praise and blessings of all His creatures (v.10). As part of praising God, His people testify to the glory, power and splendor of His eternal kingdom (v.11-13). Despite earthly kingdoms rising and falling, God reigns supreme over all. His word and works reveal His faithfulness and kindness to sustain all of life (v.14-16). From the smallest detail to the grand expanse of the universe, all creation relies on the goodness and care of God. Though mankind rebelled against God's rule, He did not abandon us as a righteous King should have. Instead, He upholds the falling and lifts up the bowed down. His provision satisfies and sustains every living thing. Truly God's mercy triumphs over the judgment we deserve.

As I reflect on this passage, I'm reminded how easy it is to doubt God's goodness in the midst of life's storms. I look at the pain, evil and chaos in this world and wonder if God really is in control or even cares. But this psalm redirects my gaze to consider the kindness and compassion of God evident all around me. I don't deserve the blessings in my life, yet God daily loads me with benefits. He gives me another sunrise, a meal to enjoy, a family to cherish. Even the ability to work and be productive is a gift from His hand. I have shelter, clothing, community and eternal life because Jesus endured the Cross on my behalf. Such extravagant mercy is hard to fathom. If God extended such kindness to me as His enemy, how much more will He care for me as His child? I'm learning to trust His goodness and timing even when I cannot trace His hand. My role is to keep seeking first His kingdom and righteousness. For His dominion endures forever and His mercy never fails.

Gracious God, forgive me for doubting Your goodness and questioning Your care. Thank You for Your mercy that sustains me each day. Help me keep my eyes fixed on You instead of the storms of life. Renew my mind to understand that Your eternal kingdom rules over all. Give me grace to trust that You work all things for my good because I love You and am called according to Your purpose. Thank You for adopting me as Your beloved child. May my life bring glory and testimony to Your great name. Amen.