Thankful, He satisfies us

Psalm 107:4-9.

The Psalm continues by telling us four stories to inspire thanksgiving: the wanderers, the prisoners, the sick, and the seafarers (vv 4, 10, 17, 23). And as with most stories, we are to see a bit of ourselves in them—especially since these are the stories of the redeemed (v2a). Above all, we are to see God’s wonderful deeds and respond with thankful praise.

So what can I be thankful for from the wanderer’s story? That when we wander and cry out to God, He satisfies us.

The hunger of the wanderer.

The wanderers are searching for a place to settle, but they cannot find it (v4). Rather, the farther they wander, the hungrier, thirstier, and fainter they become (v5). That’s what wandering does. It exposes our hunger. And spiritually, we can do the same. We can wander from God and look to things such as success, relationships, or possessions to satisfy us. But the things we chase can never satisfy the deepest hunger of our souls. So the wandering yields a distressing hunger. Yet, there’s One who satisfies.

The satisfaction of the wanderer.

The Psalmist says, “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He led them to where they could settle” (v6-7) and “satisfied them with good things” (v9). This is a wonderful reason to give thanks: God not only rescues, but also satisfies the wanderer. The wanderer’s unique testimony is simple: He saved me, and in doing so, He satisfied me.

We can look back and thank God that when we were wandering like sheep, He brought us home through Christ (Isa. 53:6; John 10:11). And we can trust Him with our daily needs, knowing that He is our Father who provides for us each day (Psalm 23:1; Matt. 6:11).

So what gives us reason to give thanks? Recalling that God satisfies our deepest needs.

Reflect & Pray

What need has God satisfied recently? How might remembering His provision motivate thanksgiving and faith?

Thank You, Father, that in Christ, I am satisfied.
Thank You that when I wander, You find me, lead me and fill me with good things. Help me to trust You with all my needs, in Jesus' name, amen.

God bless you exceedingly,
Sam.

“He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Ps 107:9.

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