Commandments and Blessings

Psalm 25:5-6 'Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day. Remember, O Lord, Your tender mercies and loving-kindnesses, for they are from of old.'

In their prayers, many of the great prophets of old took a moment to remind God of His tender mercies, His kindnesses, His faithfulness, His promises. Of course, God does not need to be reminded of anything. Rather, His servants knew that God wanted them to reflect on all the blessings He has given in the past, to meditate on the mercies and miracles of yesterday. This does 2 things:

1. It glorifies God. By reflecting and meditating on God's grace, we glorify Him for His works (which is the purpose of all life)
2. It helps us to focus on Him and on all He has done for us, creating grateful, joyful hearts by keeping us from dwelling on our current distress

Throughout the Psalms David meditates on God's works in his life, and waits for Him to continue the good work. These are  actions and mindsets which serve to lift him up and keep him out of dark pits (Psalm 40 and Psalm 130).

Meditating on His works in your life, waiting on Him, and daring to stand on His promises provides the greatest balm there is. Jesus says that His burden is light (Matthew 11:30). Think about this. I believe that, while Christians are expected to endure tribulations, we are also called to place our cares onto Him, for He can carry them, and only He can take them off our shoulders.

In John 14:14-15 Jesus promises He will do for us what we ask, a great and incredible assurance that is followed by the associated guideline to receiving this great promise: 'If you love Me, keep My commandments.'
 
The Word shows us the way, the truth, and life, for He is! Don't complicate things by worrying and despairing; focus on Him, obey His commandments and receive the blessings He wants to give you.