Psalm 116:

• This psalmist seems manic to me. He loves God, yes, but “because” (vs. 1-2) God listened and showed mercy. Are benefits from the LORD on our terms required for us to love Him? Yet, the psalmist does acknowledge God’s mercy in the midst of being “low” (vs. 6). The writer even goes so far as to call the death of God’s children (“saints”), “precious” (vs. 15).
• • • Who can fully know the mysterious ways of God? If Your mercy, LORD, helps me to love You more (not the benefits of Your love that I can so idolatrously crave, but You), then show me mercy. If my “death” will be “precious” to You, then give me the disposition to joyfully accept this.