Even though someone else (David) wrote this, when I read it I feel compelled to act because of the “I will” statements. David was a master at praising God. And from what I can tell, he also seemed inexplicably optimistic during some very challenging times in his life. I think these two things go hand in hand. Praising God gives me hope, the churchy word for optimism.
How does this work?
Looking at today’s verse, David says, “I will thank the Lord with all my heart.” It seems exuberant and almost forceful.
When I thank someone, presumably it’s because something good has happened. (When I thank them with all my heart, something really good has happened.) I notice it and appreciate it and am thinking about this good thing. Thinking about good things leads to optimism. For example, if I thank you for bringing me a cake today, I’m thinking about cake and how much I love it. And then I envision how cake might be possible again in my future. Perhaps you might even bring me some tomorrow, or perhaps I can buy my own cake and bring some for you. That’s optimism.
David also says, “I will declare all your wondrous works.” Here again, some good things have happened. But instead of thanking the source, I’m telling everyone else about the wonderful things. I’m telling my coworkers and neighbors about the delicious cake you brought me. We are now all thinking about the good thing and getting optimistic about cake and possibilities for future cake. Maybe we will plan a block party with several varieties of cake. So much hope and optimism because I thanked you for your cake and declared your wondrous cake to my neighbors.
How much more valuable is God’s love than cake. Cake is great, sure, but God’s love is the best flavor, the most beautiful color, the loveliest smell, and the warmest, satisfied feeling all wrapped up into one miraculous gift.
Dear God,
Thank you — with all my heart — for the great gift of your love. Thank you also for cake. Give me the boldness to declare your wonders — your love, all of creation, how you have worked in my life, and even cake — to people in my life.
CamDevo 