WHAT SHALL I RENDER UNTO THE LORD

 

EVENING DEVOTION by James Smith

APRIL 22

 

Psalm 116:12

What shall I render unto the LORD 

for all his benefits toward me?

 

A very suitable inquiry after a day’s mercies.
 
But though we attempt to render praise to-night, 

     we ought not to confine our views to the day.
 
Rather let us ask, 

      What has the Lord conferred upon us? 

                                                BENEFITS.
 
Blessings without which we could neither be

   happy, 

        useful, or 

                  holy. 

 

He has given grace, 

   scattered fears, 

   wrought deliverances, 

   sent supplies, 

    confirmed our faith, 

     and promised glory.
 
Everything we receive is a benefit.
 
It springs from free grace, 

   flows to the undeserving, 

       suits our case, and 

           lays us under deep obligations. 

The Father has given us his Son.
 
The Son has given us his perfect work.
 
The Holy Spirit has given us life.
 
Then what shall we render? 

What are we willing to render? 

Have we gifts? Let us devote them to his service.
 
Have we time? Let us employ it to his praise.
 
Let us work in his vineyard, 

   suffer in his cause, and 

      give to his poor.
 
What will be acceptable to God? 

    That you walk closely with him.
 
Spread the gospel.
 
Visit his sick ones.
 
Relieve his poor people.
 
Shew gratitude to him as opportunity offers, and the life of a consecrated disciple.
 

What shall I render?   Render praise,

Walk close with God in love;

Observe his precepts, keep his ways,

And all his will approve.

 
James Smith