“Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.” (Psalm‬ ‭33:3‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

Dr. George O. Wood’s thoughts on this scripture caught my heart in my throat this morning: “Lest we become rote and routine, we are encouraged to ‘sing a new song’ – each passage in life provides a fresh revelation of God’s presence and should therefore be included in our repertoire of worship.”

I am so thankful for a new season. The weather hasn’t quite got the memo, but my heart is thawing. I’ve been told you can see it in my countenance. Surviving this past year of sorrow and trial has released me in new territory; the skies are a bit bluer, the sun a bit brighter and my joy a bit richer. After I have endured such ugly, my appreciation for the every day, ordinary is even greater.

“For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.” (Psalm‬ ‭33:4‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

A year ago I knew this, but now I KNOW it. It’s like the difference between having a AAA member card in your wallet and actually utilizing the service for cross-country tow. I now trust what God is capable of because I have had to explore the extent of His benefits.

Our confidence in God soars when we’ve had to rely on Him extensively, exclusively, and when we’ve discovered in our most treacherous places, He is actually enough.

“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—” (Psalm‬ ‭103:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬)

Lord, we are thankful for seasons of ‘new song.’ We are thankful for the days on the other side of the awful when we can look up, a new version of us, with a fresh understanding of You. Your Word says You are good, and it’s truly exciting when our experiences reinforce Your Word. Thank You for the tremendous benefits we receive by faith, by belonging. We are grateful and our trust in You is ever-growing. Amen.