Do Not Forget His Benefits

David talks to himself here. He tells his own soul to bless the Lord and not to forget any of God's kindnesses. Then he lists them: forgiveness, healing, rescue from the pit, love and compassion like a crown, and good things that renew strength like an eagle's. It is a helpful reminder that gratitude is partly a discipline of memory. We are quick to remember what went wrong and slow to recall what was given freely. Speaking to your own soul, out loud if possible, is a way of steering it. Today, take a page and write your own list of God's benefits to you, starting with the most ordinary ones: a place to sleep, a person who loves you, a chance to begin again. Read the list aloud once, slowly, and let your soul catch up with what your mind already knows.