Psalm 107:43
Whoever is wise will observe these things, And they will understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.

When we take missions trips into Mexico it seems as though time stops. There just isn't all of the rushing around taking place as it does in the United States. In the same day, on the same street, you will see a motorcycle, a small child walking with a friend, a woman walking home with a bag of groceries, a horse and it's rider, any number of cars and trucks or tractors, or a wagon being pulled by a horse. Oh, and somewhere in the mix you will find a bicycle or two! All on the same street that may or not be paved. No one seems to be in much of a hurry to get where they are going. The pace is so slow that you take extra time to observe things that you might not normally see.

I think that we would agree that there is nothing more encouraging than the kindness of the Lord. However, if that be the case, why do we find ourselves discouraged at times? May I suggest to you that it is because we fail to observe the things of the Lord? We get so busy with everything around us, with all of the so called 'important' things that we fail to open our eyes to the wonderful works of the Lord which speak so loudly of His lovingkindness.

The Psalmist writes, Whoever is wise will observe these things. All too often we limit our sight to our physical eyes and fail to recognize the importance of opening the eyes of our hearts. It is in our hearts that we experience the lovingkindness of the Lord. When we observe things with the eyes of our hearts, our souls are fed with the joy of the Lord and nothing can bring us down. This is why James was able to write, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials," James 1:2. He no doubt observed the lovingkindness of the Lord with the eyes of his heart, thereby bringing about encouragement in the midst of what would otherwise have been discouraging. And so it is possible with us! But, be wise, slow down, and take the time to observe with our hearts.

Father, we ask that you would make us wise in order that we might begin to look at things with our hearts. We long to understand your lovingkindness; for we know that in so doing our hearts will be greatly encouraged. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen!

May you be greatly encouraged this week as you begin to observe the wonderful workings of God. Take the time to be still before the Lord this week and you will find that even in what might normally be discouraging, you will be greatly encouraged. May you be wise children this week as you look to Jesus.