Bless the Lord – Sermon – Josh Patterson – 9/6/26

Main message: Remember and rehearse the truths of Psalm 103: God—the covenant‑keeping Yahweh—has forgiven, healed, redeemed, crowned you with steadfast love and satisfied your heart; in the middle of life's frantic pace we must pause, look face‑to‑face with him, and respond in worship and community.

Key points:

• Psalm 103 calls us to wake up our souls and not forget God’s benefits: forgiveness of sins, healing, redemption from the pit, being crowned with steadfast love and mercy, and renewal/satisfaction that enables us to "soar like eagles."
• The pastor shared a personal testimony of being overwhelmed by life’s pace until God stopped him and drew him into intimate face‑to‑face awareness of God’s love and faithfulness.
• David’s language highlights God as covenant‑keeper (Yahweh) and the kinsman‑redeemer image (Boaz/Ruth) to show how God rescues and brings us into family.
• The fruit of God’s work in the church (prayer initiatives, kids and student ministries, homegroups, care ministries, outreach) is evidence of the Spirit moving and should prompt gratitude and continued prayerful stewardship.
• Practical call: slow down to worship, receive prayer/assurance at the altar, confess Christ, and join the church’s life of prayer and care.

Scriptures mentioned: Psalm 103, John 16, Ruth