Read Psalm 103
Helpful Background Information:
This psalm is a psalm of David, although we do not know the specific circumstances in which it was written. David was a man who intimately knew the grace and deliverance of the Lord, so it could have been written at many different points of His life.
The surrounding ancient cultures relied heavily on a strict “eye for an eye” vengeance by pagan deities. The kind of love and forgiveness that David writes about in this psalm is a radical shift from the rest of the world, as David’s God, Yahweh, had a standard of covenant mercy (hesed) and divine restraint. This was the kind of God who did not deal with us as our sins deserve (v10).
Verses 7-8 talk about how the LORD revealed Himself to Moses, and speaks to the character of God throughout all time. Verse 8 is directly quoting Exodus 34:6, where the LORD identifies Himself as compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. God has always been a God of love, and we can rest in the assurance of His unchanging nature.
Reflection Questions:
Verse 2 says to “not forget all his benefits.” We as humans are so quick to forget and lose sight of His benefits, blessings, character, and our unique identity as children of God. What causes you to forget the truths of God? Why is remembering the Lord and His character/benefits helpful to us?
David contrasts the temporary nature of humans (like grass or a vanishing wildflower) with the everlasting nature of God's love (verses 15–17). How does keeping the brevity of life in mind reorient your daily anxieties and priorities?
Take some time to identify and remember the benefits of God (both from the text and personal experience). Turn that remembrance into your own song of praise to the Lord, meditating on His unchanging character.