A Good Constant Reminder
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Psalm 135 and Revelation 13 (NIV)
(David Gan from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Psalm 135 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
The Psalmist begins by telling me to praise God (v.1-3) and reminds me of the great things He has done for Israel (v.8-12). The Psalmist then provides a warning against idolizing wealth (v.15-18).
APPLY:
The reflection today speaks to me on two levels, firstly to actively remember and give praise, and secondly to actively guard against idols/materialism.
The phrase being “constantly reminded of” is usually negative. For example, when I am constantly reminded of some mistake I have made or where there is someone constantly reminding me to do something. However, this Psalm spoke to me of the joy of remembering. I felt my heart and spirits lifted recounting to myself what Jesus did for me on the cross. I also applied this to the people He placed in my life. It made my day wonderfully tender.
When the Psalmist lays it out plainly (v.15-18), it seems like tomfoolery to idolize and place my trust in things made with human hands, such as money and status. I find that I sometimes slip into that mentality. However, the happiness I derive from these material things is so fleeting that I often crave more almost immediately. In contrast, the living Word and love of God brings warmth and a deeper joy to my life.
DO:
As with any good constant reminder, I will:
- Set up alarms throughout the day so I am reminded to set aside some time for me to dwell on the goodness of God and the people He has placed in my life
- Keep verses 15-18 as a memory verse to carry around in my head and heart
PRAY:
Dear Heavenly Father,
You know everything that I need before I ask. Your love as my heavenly Father has no bounds. I pray that You forgive me for the times I have forgotten about Your love, for the times I have taken the people in my life for granted and for the self-centeredness I have in thought and actions. Thank You for the precious reminder that You have provided at the time I needed it most. Help me to devote more of my heart and mind to giving You praise and to spend more time enjoying Your love. Help me also not to make anything on this earth my idol but to see the things of this world as tools for Your glory.
Amen.
