Psalm 34, Ephesians 1:3, 1 Peter 3:8-13
My son has always been a finicky eater. And getting him to try anything new is a challenge. So in encouraging him to take at least take one bite I say the familiar phrase, “Try it you might like it.” And more often than not, he finds himself enjoying the goodness of what he’s tasting. David knew firsthand the sweet goodness of the Lord. Because he tasted God’s protection, love, forgiveness, and blessings. And he wants us to experience that same goodness. And so he encourages us to, “Try it. You might like it!”
We’ve all heard the expression, the proof is in the pudding. That’s why David doesn’t want us to just take his word that God is good. To be content in just admiring God from afar. Instead David wants us to taste and see for ourselves. To experience, like him, the peace, love, and security that can be found in the Lord alone. And rejoicing over the soul sustaining goodness of God. So David urges us to take a bite, and “let God’s goodness be rolled under the tongue as a sweet morsel.” (Matthew Henry) And fill our appetites with the satisfying goodness of the Lord.
So just what is God’s goodness? David tells us that for all who take refuge in Him, God will care for our every need. Never will we want for any good thing. But instead truly enjoy life and see good days. In His goodness our Father will hear our cries, and save us from our enemies. For He is near to the broken-hearted, comforting our crushed and hurting spirits. From His great love, God redeems our souls, and condemns the wicked. All who taste of His goodness will see that the Lord is good and know His provision.
The true worth, success, or effectiveness of something can only be determined by putting appearances and promises aside, and trying it for ourselves. David has full confidence that once we taste of the Lord there will be no going back. And after experiencing His goodness, our appetites will increase for the Lord, and we will be hungry to know Him more and more. Have you tasted the sweet goodness of God? Is He your refuge when the storms of trouble rage? It’s time to stop watching others enjoy every morsel of His goodness, and start experiencing it for yourself. So if you haven’t, “Try it. You make like it!”
Pause and Reflect -
Have you accepted David’s invitation to taste of God’s goodness? Have you filled your plate with His provisions? Or are you trying to fill your appetite in other ways? Do you find the things of the world leaving you hungry?
It’s normal to seek relief from hurt, trouble, and discomfort. David’s pain relief was to find refuge in God. Is the Lord the first one you run to during times of trials? Or are you tempted to seek your refuge elsewhere? If you do, how does that work for you?
Finally, let’s pray together,
Our dearest Father in heaven above, hallowed be Thy name. Father we thank You for Your Word and the wisdom it contains. Thank You that we can taste of your sweet goodness and of Your saving grace. We are eternally blessed, protected, and redeemed by trusting in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Father may we seek You in all the difficulties and dangers of life, knowing that all who trust in You will never be put to shame. Thank You that You are our refuge and strength and our ever-present help in troubled times. Oh Father we know You are near to the broken-hearted and close to all who are crushed in spirit. And we thank you for Your faithfulness and Your mercies which are new every morning. We praise you Father for You are a God, who not only saves but keeps, helps, comforts and provides for all who are called by Your name. In Jesus precious name we pray, Amen.
Don't' forget to head over to our Facebook group at, https://www.facebook.com/
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts, and I pray your day overflows with love and blessings.
Lisa