He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered. Yahweh is gracious and merciful.
Psalm 111:4 · World English Bible
Keep a Record of Mercy
What do you remember most easily when a difficult morning begins? Often, the unfinished problem comes to mind before anything else. Pain and uncertainty can occupy so much space that other memories become harder to reach. This psalm makes room for remembering God’s wonderful works. It names him as gracious and merciful, directing our attention toward his character rather than leaving us alone with the latest concern. Remembering does not require us to edit out what was painful. It asks us not to let pain become the only story we carry. This morning, write down one account of God’s mercy from Scripture. You might recall Jesus welcoming children or feeding a hungry crowd. Read that account if you have time, and keep a sentence from it nearby. When your thoughts return to what is unresolved, revisit that sentence. You are not predicting how your circumstances will unfold. You are remembering the God to whom you bring them.
Morning Prayer
Merciful God, my memory can become crowded with what hurt and what remains unfinished. Help me remember your works without pretending that everything has been easy. As I return to the accounts of your mercy in Scripture, keep me attentive to your character. I want to carry more than my worries into this day. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Evening Prayer
Father, as this day closes, I praise you for the mercy your wonderful works reveal. Receive my thanks for kindness I overlooked and forgive the kindness I withheld. I place unfinished responsibilities under your wise care. Give me rest tonight, and teach me to speak of your faithfulness with honesty and gratitude. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.