As we've been focusing on "Blessed is the Nation..." this week of celebrating Independence day, let's move to the next verses of our text for the week, Psalm 33:13-14:  ¹³From heaven the LORD looks down  and sees all mankind;  ¹⁴from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—¹⁵he who forms the hearts of all,  who considers everything they do. God blesses the nation that follows Him, AND He watches every, single one of us!  God knows what's happening.  He isn't an absent God, who "wound up the clock and let it run."  He watches over all mankind, from the moment we go to bed, until we get up, until we go to bed again.

As I said on Sunday, that's comforting news IF we're doing His will.  If we're seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, then we're glad to know God is watching our every move.  If we're following our own plans, then how scary is it to know that God is watching our EVERY move?  I bring this up only to point out the obvious: the God of the universe is paying attention!  The second half of today's Scripture reminds us that God created our hearts--the seats of our will and spirit, and He "considers" all we do.  The longer I follow Jesus the more comforting those words become.  Why?  Because when I'm following the Spirit's leading in my heart, I know God is watching, and when I sin, I know God is watching, which calls me to repent and receive forgiveness.  I'm not talking about "cheap" grace, whereby whatever happens in my life is okay with God, and since Jesus died to forgive my sins, that it's okay if I sin.  I'm talking about knowing that God affirms my obedience, and corrects my disobedience, so in the long term I'll be more obedient.

What about you?  How do you view God's watchful "eye" seeing all that you are and do?  Is it comforting? Scary? Do you even think about it?  Take a moment right now and consider what it means to you that God is constantly watching your life.  Consider what it means that God "considers" all you do.  Then thank God for His great interest in your life, and recommit to living in the name of His Son, Jesus, and in the power of His Holy Spirit!

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, thank You for Your watchful care in our lives!  Fill us anew with Your Holy Spirit so we may enjoy Your grace and extend Your glory. This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.