When things are going badly, our thoughts often quickly turn towards God. But what about during times of victory and blessing?
Do our thoughts turn quickly in praise towards God? Or do our thoughts turn towards ourselves, and how great we are?
Even David fell into that trap (see 2 Samuel chapters 11–12, and 24), but here in Psalm 21, he kept in mind just where his victory and blessing came from. He sang,
The king rejoices in your strength, Lord. How great is his joy in the victories you give!
You have granted him his heart’s desire and have not withheld the request of his lips.
You came to greet him with rich blessings and placed a crown of pure gold on his head.
He asked you for life, and you gave it to him—length of days, for ever and ever.
Through the victories you gave, his glory is great; you have bestowed on him splendor and majesty.
Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence. (Psalm 21:1–6)
Not only did David remember where these things came from, he remembered why God blessed him.
For the king trusts in the Lord; through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken. (7)
Where do your thoughts turn when you find victory in your life?
Do you find yourself boasting in yourself and your wisdom and strength? Or do you find yourself praising God for what he’s done?
Do you find yourself putting more faith in yourself and what you can do? Or do you find yourself putting more faith in God and what he can do?
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 