1. Everyone of us will grieve a loss or losses at some point in our lives.
2. Scholars reveal that this Psalm was written by a faithful follower who was facing death.
3. This text explains his thought processes on how to deal with this crisis.
4. This great writer affirms that he loves the LORD and why he loves the LORD.
5. The author of this Psalm is not too proud to "call upon the LORD".
6. Psalm 116 powerfully demonstrates the psalmist's physical condition.
7. I encourage you to keep a diary during a loss or a health crisis.
8. Psalm 116:5-11 reveals that after the Psalmist prays, he contemplates the awesome characteristics of God.
9. Reminding ourselves of God's great character is extremely inspirational.
10. A health crisis should lead us to focus on God's great character and blessings.
11. Often we forget what God has done for us and what He is presently doing for us.
12. A decline in our health should lead us to great humility.
13. The Psalmist announces that he is "God's servant".
14. Knocking on death's door is sobering and quite educational.
15. One group of scholars says, "The writer celebrates the deliverance from extreme perils by which he was favored, and pledges grateful and pious public acknowledgments."
16. It is interesting that we shout about our pain, but murmur about God's deliverance.
17. God's deliverances should lead us to say, "Thank You" to our Great God.
18. We should notice how this Psalmist profoundly worships God after He delivers him.
19. This texts us informs and reminds us that we should worship God and quickly say, "Praise the Lord!"
20. Our lives should demonstrate that we have confidence in God rather than trust in mankind.
21. Psalm 116:11 reveals that the Psalmist is experiencing a mental state of fear and panic.
22. How do you react to grief?
23. How do deal with a loss or a decline in your health?
24. How do you pray when you are dealing with a significant reversal?
25. Our thoughts and prayers are often "all over the map" during a decline in health.
26. This particular psalmist did not die at this point, God delivered him.
27. Psalm 116:11 challenges us to remember God's grace and mercy during a crisis and also after the crisis has passed.
28. How has God ministered to you during a health crisis?
29. What has a health crisis taught you about your theology?
30. What has a health crisis taught you about your fears?
31. Have you allowed your restoration to improve your walk with the LORD?
32. What do you believe about death and dying?
33. Are you allowing your "restorations from God" to lead you to greater heights of worship?