Remember His Benefits
David’s Psalm 103 reveals God’s merciful character—slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love, and forgiving sins beyond what they deserve. God’s treatment of us is marked by mercy instead of strict judgment. Pastor Steve Schobert shows how David uses this Psalm to uplift both himself and others in recognizing God’s patient, gracious heart and His rule over all creation.
Psalm 103 opens with a call that echoes through every generation:
“Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”
David wasn’t just writing poetry—he was preaching to himself. When life pressed in, when enemies rose up, when the future seemed uncertain, David remembered who God was and what God had done.
Across Collin County, Dallas County, and the North Dallas region, we too are called to remember. Our worship isn’t based on our circumstances—it’s rooted in the unchanging character of God.
The God Who Forgives, Heals, and Redeems
Psalm 103 lists the benefits of knowing the Lord:
- He forgives all our iniquities.
- He heals all our diseases.
- He redeems our lives from destruction.
- He crowns us with lovingkindness and tender mercies.
- He satisfies us with good things, renewing our strength like the eagle’s.
This isn’t just ancient poetry—it’s a present reality for those walking with Christ in Plano, Garland, Richardson, Allen, McKinney, Wylie, Murphy, and beyond. The same God who met David in the wilderness still meets us in our weakness.
A God of Mercy and Justice
Psalm 103:6–10 reminds us that God “executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.” He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
When Moses asked to see God’s glory, the Lord didn’t just show His power—He revealed His heart:
“The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth.” (Exodus 34:5–7)
The God who forgives sin is also the God who brings justice. The cross is proof of both—mercy for the sinner, judgment upon sin.
Everlasting Mercy for a Fragile People
“As for man, his days are like grass… but the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him.” (Psalm 103:15–17)
Life moves quickly. Seasons change. But the mercy of God does not fade. In a culture obsessed with speed and success, the people of North Dallas are being called back to the rhythm of gratitude and worship.
The God who remembers that we are dust still crowns us with grace.
Strengthened in the Lord
When David found himself surrounded by enemies and crushed by loss, the Bible says:
“David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” (1 Samuel 30:6)
Even when the crowd turned against him, David didn’t quit—he turned inward and upward. He reminded his soul: “Bless the Lord.”
All across Dallas, we too can learn to strengthen ourselves in the Lord—to rise above discouragement through worship, prayer, and trust in His promises.
Bless the Lord, O My Soul
The psalm ends where it began—with worship that fills the heavens:
“Bless the Lord, all His works, in all places of His dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!” (Psalm 103:22)
When we bless the Lord, heaven and earth join in harmony. Angels bless Him. Creation blesses Him. And from North Dallas to every nation, we lift our voices in praise to the One whose throne is established forever.
Your Call to Worship
- Remember His benefits. Gratitude opens the door to peace.
- Bless Him in the storm. Worship is warfare.
- Strengthen yourself in the Lord. He is still your refuge and fortress.
- Live like you’re crowned. You are covered in mercy, redeemed by grace, and renewed daily.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. And all that is within me—bless His holy name.
