Wine, Oil, and Bread

In Psalms 103 and 104, David covers the full gamut of all the things that God has done for him and reasons to be grateful. In the calm and in the chaos, in seasons of abundance and of scarcity, in the face of our enemies and the arms of our friends, the big things we can't help but see and the little things we tend to forget.

"You cause grass to grow for the livestock and plants for people to use. You allow them to produce food from the earth-- wine to make them glad, olive oil to soothe their skin, and bread to give them strength." (Psalm 104:14-15)

Some mornings as I read and think about the day to come, my mind spins like a top trying to find its balance, with the devil constantly pulling the string so I can't focus on any one thing. Then I come across a verse like the one above and am reminded of just how good and complete His provision is. It slows me down. I can get so caught up in the big issues of the day that I forget to be grateful for the basics that make it all possible.

Before David asked for directions to the complex, he showed gratitude for the basics. Without the foundation, there is no house. Make sure you get the little things right if you want the big things to go well.

 In the midst of all you have going on today, find a minute to notice the goodness and provision you have been given.

Remember the small things we tend to take for granted and the people who quietly go to work, taking care of the everyday necessities that make your big, important world possible. It is no surprise that the wine, oil, and bread are often the best part of the meal.