Abundance as Motive for Gratitude and Praise

When Adonai restores plenty after devastation, the response demanded is not mere consumption but comprehensive thanksgiving. Exell's Victorian analysis of Ezekiel 14:26 unfolds the promise "And ye shall eat in plenty" across eight spiritual dimensions: satiation of body, contentment with portion, the capacity to eat, and supremely, the enjoyment of Elohim as our God in Christ.

Yet abundance without acknowledgment becomes idolatry. "Praise the name of the Lord" encompasses four essential duties: recognizing Yahweh's goodness in creation itself; rejoicing in the kairos (seasonable grace) that "filleth our heart with food and gladness"; serving Adonai in holiness throughout our days; and centering all praise upon the person and sufficiency of Christ Jesus.

The motive lies in recognizing God's wondrous dealings: the calling off of devouring armies, earth's springing renewal after devastation, seasonable rains that moisten parched ground, and uncommon fertility succeeding drought and ravage. These are not accidents of nature but tokens of divine restoration.

When plenty returns, the redeemed must ensure Adonai receives all glory. The comfort of creature-comforts becomes mercy only when our hearts enlarge in love and thankfulness toward Him "who giveth us all things richly to enjoy." Through restored provision, reputation is retrieved, joy revived, and faith in God confirmed and increased.