Psalm 34:1-8 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 34:1-8 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
Verse 2My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad.
Verse 3O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.
Verse 4I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.
Verse 5Look to him, and be radiant; so your faces shall never be ashamed.
Verse 6This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble.
Verse 7The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.
Verse 8O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him.
Devotion
Have you ever covered your mouth immediately after saying something you shouldn't have? Go ahead, try it out right now. Slap your lips in embarrassed, astonished regret. The familiar feeling of that gesture alone is enough to remind us our mouths are not continually filled with praise. The psalmist promises to bless the Lord always, but we might wonder, Even on Facebook? Even on Twitter? Even when arguing with someone we don't like?
There are lots of times our mouths fall short of the glory of God. There are times the words that come out of our mouths leave others' mouths half open in shock and horror. In those moments, God doesn't slap our mouths closed; God gives us something to eat. God invites us to chew on some compassion and mercy, forgiveness and grace. God invites us to "taste and see that the Lord is good."
Prayer
God, forgive my words. Forgive the words of others. Change the world with your words. Amen.