God is Good. All the Time.

Years ago, when my family gathered around the dinner table, I was the one who said grace. Not because I knew the Lord, but because I knew this simple prayer:

God is great, God is good, 
And we thank Him for our food;
By His hand we all are fed,
Give us, Lord, our daily bread. Amen.

All through my childhood, I spoke these truths, even before I understood them: God is great. God is good. Indeed, He is a “great God, mighty and awesome” (Deuteronomy 10:17). And He created things that are “pleasing to the eye and good for food” (Genesis 2:9).

But, above all, He is goodness itself.

Comforting thoughts, in a world gone bad, gone wild, gone mad:

• “Whatever happens, His goodness is always present.” —Carolyn
• “He is so good, and cannot do anything that is not good.” —Lynn
• “Out of sorrow and tragedy, His goodness shines through.” —Amy

Last week, I saw His goodness on display.

I was waiting to board a plane for home, when a conversation caught my ear. “May I escort my new friend to her seat?” I turned to see a young man with a kind smile bending toward an elderly woman in a wheelchair.

“Sorry, but I’ll need to do that,” the flight attendant explained, as she pointed the wheelchair toward the jet way.

Clearly disappointed, he said good-bye, then watched the older woman head for the plane. “Good talking to you, ma’am!” he called out. A moment later, he reclaimed his seat and said to no one in particular, “Some people are so nice.”

“Like you,” two people said in unison. Smiles were exchanged, and a warm glow settled on those who were close enough to witness the uncommon scene.

When we do good deeds, they’re really God deeds. His goodness, His mercy, His kindness pouring through us. Tempted as I am to take credit whenever I manage to do something right, I know where the prompting — and the power — comes from. He alone deserves the praise.

God truly is good. Yes, all the time.

Some memory verses to remind you of God’s goodness:

• “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8).
• ”For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:5).
• “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (Nahum 1:7).

Heavenly Father, in a world that grows darker by the hour, Your goodness remains a beacon of hope.

What does the goodness of God mean to you? Take a second to share your thoughts below. Your comments will bless us all!

Your grateful sister, Liz
@LizCurtisHiggs

P.S. The lovely flower photos this week were taken by our daughter. Thanks, Lil!