"Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever. Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous... Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever."

Psalm 112:1-6

This wonderful psalm reminds us that a life centered in God and a life lived well – that is, a life lived rightly – brings its own rewards in many ways. Of course, there are difficulties, sorrows, and even terribly damaging things in life, and we are to expect persecution as well. At the same time, a life hidden1 and rooted in Christ gives inner peace, security, and a lack of fear. Gracious, compassionate, and generous people do not only store up treasures in heaven. By being gracious and compassionate to others, they shape themselves into being less selfish and/or self-absorbed. By being generous, they do not allow money to have a hold over them. The righteous who trust in the Lord have fewer deep worries about their lives because they know that underneath are the everlasting arms. This inner peace and security is something that the wicked do not have, or understand. This Psalm encourages us, whatever mood or circumstance we are in, to remember that the Good Shepherd brings us life and life to the full.

CLOSING PRAYER

Loving King, you delight in showering me with gifts out of your storehouse that is filled beyond measure. As I freely receive from you, show me how to give freely to others, in both who I am in you and what I have because of you.

(Edited from Encounter with God)