OCTOBER 8 – DEVOTIONAL
Thanks-Giving: Grateful Hearts, Open Hands Forget Not His Benefits!
“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.” — Psalm 103:1–2, KJV Scripture reading: Psalm 103:1–5
Beloved, sometimes we need to remind our souls of what our circumstances have made us forget! In this beautiful Psalm, David calls his whole being to bless the Lord. He is not waiting for his feelings to cooperate; he is stirring his heart to remember God’s goodness. Before you count what is missing, remember the mercies that are already present!
David knew battles, danger, sorrow, and disappointment, yet he also knew the faithfulness of God. His thanksgiving flowed from a life sustained by mercy. We, too, can praise God through difficult seasons, trusting that His presence has not left us and His goodness has not run out.
In Psalm 103:1–5, David gives us precious reasons to be thankful: God’s forgiveness, healing, redemption, lovingkindness, tender mercies, provision, and renewal. What a beautiful reminder that we have more to remember than our struggles! Every breath, every provision, every renewed strength, and every opportunity to begin again gives us a reason to say, “Lord, thank You!”
Even while we wait for healing, answers, or a change in our circumstances, we can remember the grace that has carried us this far. Thanksgiving does not deny our pain; it acknowledges God’s goodness in the midst of it. We may not have every answer, but we still have reasons to bless His holy name!
And in this month of Thanks-Giving: Grateful Hearts, Open Hands, let remembering lead to responding. Because we have received forgiveness, let us extend forgiveness. Because we have experienced kindness, let us show kindness. Because God has provided for us, let us share what we can. A grateful heart finds expression through thankful lips and generous hands!
Today, tell your soul: “Remember His mercy. Recount His goodness. Respond with thanksgiving!” Let the grace you have received become graciousness you extend to someone else.
Have a thankful and safe Sunday! May you and your family be encouraged to remember the blessings of salvation in Christ, thrive in gratitude, and reflect His goodness through open hands and acts of love. Shalom!
Bible Reading Summary
EZEKIEL 18:1–19:14
God teaches that everyone is responsible for their own actions and will be judged accordingly. He desires that sinners repent and live rather than perish. The passage also mourns the downfall of Israel’s leaders because of their wickedness. It reminds us that our choices have consequences, but God offers forgiveness to those who sincerely turn to Him. Key Themes: Personal Responsibility, Repentance, God’s Justice, Consequences of Sin, Forgiveness, Obedience.
HEBREWS 9:1–10
This passage describes the earthly tabernacle and how priests offered sacrifices under the old covenant. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year with blood. These rituals could not completely cleanse people’s consciences. They pointed toward a better way of approaching God through Jesus Christ. Key Themes: Worship, Old Covenant, Sacrifice, Holiness, Access to God, Need for Spiritual Cleansing.
PSALM 106:32–48
The Psalmist remembers how Israel repeatedly disobeyed God, worshipped idols, and suffered because of their sins. Despite their rebellion, God showed mercy whenever they cried out to Him. He remembered His covenant and responded with compassion. The passage ends with a prayer for deliverance and a call to praise God. Key Themes: Disobedience, God’s Mercy, Repentance, Covenant Faithfulness, Deliverance, Thanksgiving.
PROVERBS 27:10
This verse teaches the importance of maintaining genuine friendships and strong relationships. We should not abandon faithful friends, especially during difficult times. A dependable neighbor nearby can sometimes provide more immediate help than a relative far away. God wants us to value loyalty, kindness, and the people He places around us. Key Themes: Friendship, Loyalty, Strong Relationships, Kindness, Dependability, Mutual Support.
FINAL REFLECTION
Today’s Bible passages remind us that God is just, merciful, and always willing to receive those who sincerely turn back to Him. Our choices matter, and we must take responsibility for our actions rather than blame others for our mistakes.
We are also reminded that religious activities alone cannot make our hearts right with God. True transformation comes through repentance, faith, and the cleansing work of Jesus Christ.
Just as God remained merciful to Israel despite their repeated failures, we can trust His compassion while choosing to walk in obedience. We must also appreciate the faithful friends and relationships He has placed in our lives.
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS, SHARE YOUR BLESSINGS!
Join us for BOA’s November Zoom Meeting as we share a time of inspiration, fellowship, and a divine exchange with our wonderful speakers.
Sunday, 8th November 2026
4PM EST | 9PM UK | 8PM GMT
Come with an expectant heart. You don’t want to miss this special gathering!
Jesus is Lord! 
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