Forget Not All His Benefits: A Devotion by Ann Broughton

“Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, and crowns you with love and compassion….” (Psalm 103: 2-4 NIV).

Sometimes when you are in the midst of a trial it is easy to forget how the Lord helped you through other times of strife. The pain, illness, sorrow, grief, financial burdens etc. seem so overwhelming that it is easy to fall into despair. But, it is at these times of trials that your faith will be tested and remembering how the Lord helped you through other trials will help you get through any current issue that is looming before you.

The other day I reread one of my journals I had written since 2005. During the last 12 years I have had many bouts of fybromyalgia flares and other serious health issues. I was glad I wrote about them, because I also wrote how God helped me through the pain, provided a doctor who helped me tremendously, and just gave me peace when I called out for help. You see He never failed to give me strength to keep carrying on. There were many times I wondered if my pain would ever stop, but it did. If I was in agony I would cry out to God, and all of a sudden a peace would fill my soul that is just too hard to explain. It is there for you too, my friend. Just ask for it!

So you see now if I think a current problem is impossible, I remember how God helped me through all these other trials, and I know with His strength I can keep going. He has never failed me.

I hope this gives you some hope also. The Bible is filled with people who trusted God during very serious trials, and He was always full of compassion. Please keep pressing on, remembering that God will never fail to give you peace in the midst of your problems. My favorite verse is, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13 NIV). I can very honestly say I can. Remember God is only a prayer away.

Dear Lord,

I know that you have never failed to help me in past trials. Help me to keep trusting in you in whatever hardship I face in this life. Thank you for the peace that only you can give.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen