We have to go to war within our own souls or hearts. David’s instruction helps us understand how to do this as well. He writes: Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits. We must intentionally remind ourselves of the benefits we receive from God. The way we win the war that rages in our souls is to begin with intentional reminders. We specifically remind ourselves of all God’s benefits.

Is your heart or soul stubborn? Have you ever woken up on the wrong side of the bed, grumpy, or whatever you might want to call it? What if that persists day after day and you begin to develop a heart that is less than content, disillusioned with God’s good plan for your life, or apathetic toward the glory of God? Bitterness and discouragement quickly become unwanted companions that never leave. In these moments, how do we respond to them? How do we help change the fundamental problems of, on one end, grumpiness / discontentment and, on the other, settled-in bitterness / discouragement? We go to war in our own souls. When we go to war, these unwanted friends can be rooted out, replaced, and the devastating effects of their presence eliminated. Let me explain.

King David’s Instruction Helps Us

Notice what King David writes in Psalm 103:

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:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. (Psalm 103:1-5)

He instructs us – at the level of the soul, no doubt – to bless the Lord. He instructs us to bring praise to God. Not just a little praise either – he instructs us to praise God with all that is within us!

Sometimes, praising God with everything that is within us is difficult.

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