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Christians approach the Psalms in many different ways. Some are not very familiar with them, while others deeply resonate with their heartfelt expressions of praise and lament. Whether you know the Psalms well or hardly at all, chances are you haven’t read them as a whole. It may surprise you to learn that—like most other books in the Bible—the Psalms follow an unfolding storyline.

The Psalms are divided into five books, each with its own theme. As the storyline progresses, the tone becomes increasingly bleak—until the fourth book, where today’s reading is found. In this section, the writers begin to recalibrate their outlook. Instead of dwelling on suffering and sin, they reflect on God’s goodness and the rich blessings He has poured out on His people in the past.

Today, ponder this: When you're facing suffering or disappointment and asking why God has allowed difficult things to happen, do you recalibrate your soul by remembering His past blessings? Let today’s reading lead you into praise—whatever your week has been like.