Each person has their own way of expressing gratitude. Some celebrate it with a simple feast, some write it down in a prayer of thanksgiving, others contemplate it in silence. For some people, even difficult events can be a reason to be thankful, because that's where they feel their faith is purified. The psalmist invites us to see that true gratitude is not a spontaneous response to comfort, but a realization born from a long journey with God: when tested, guided, and even rebuked.
The psalmist recognizes that God himself "tests and refines" his people as one refines silver (verse 10). Testing is not understood as punishment per se, but rather a process of faith formation. Just as Israel in the wilderness experienced hunger, thirst, and vulnerability, they became the space where God formed them into a holy and resilient people. Thus, God's rescue is not just a matter of dramatic liberation from Egypt, but also guidance, correction, and patience in the midst of a long journey.
In the following passage (verse 13 & 15), the psalmist brings a thank offering to the house of God. He brings the best offering (not leftovers) and gives testimony before the people. From this we see that the expression of gratitude is not only a vertical affair with God, but also a horizontal one, it recounts the goodness of God to others. Thus, man finds himself not only in receiving, but also in bearing witness. The relationship with God is never limited; it always flows and is reflected in interactions with others. However, the psalmist also recognizes his weakness, "If there is evil in my heart, the Lord will not hear" (verse 18). This sentence reminds us that the relationship with God is not simple. It cannot be treated mechanically — as if it is enough to pray and then everything goes smoothly. Relationships with God, like relationships between people, are full of dynamics: there is love, there is rebuke, there are mysteries that are not always easy to understand. The psalmist invites us to accept that complexity, while still holding on to the faithful love of God who hears prayer and gives His love.
Friends of the Bible, true gratitude is not sweet words after the struggle is over, but rather a realization born from the process of being refined. Like refined silver, our faith is shaped through all the dynamics of life. The question is, have we given our best as an expression of gratitude? Not only through prayers or offerings, but also through the testimony of life: how we treat others, protect creation, and organize life with integrity. In this fast-paced age, let's pause and ask, is our gratitude only on our lips, or is it truly a living testimony?"
