April 1st
Praising God
Nancy Carlson
There is a song we sing at our church which comes from Psalms 34:1. It goes like this:
“I will bless the Lord at all times. I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”Seems simple enough doesn’t it? Yet, at times, we just don’t feel like doing it! The circumstances around us scream at us and blessing the Lord just doesn’t seem to be an option.
Yet, as an act of our wills, if we would just do that it is amazing what happens for us. Our spirits are lifted and we find ourselves experiencing a peace.
Why? Strangely enough, we have gotten the focus off ourselves and on to the source of our strength and hope. He is more than able. He is greater than anything in our lives. So why not? Why not praise Him at all times, in all things--even when we’re not down?
God is able to make all grace abound every day, particularly as we give Him praise and the acknowledgment He deserves. His favor surrounds us as a shield! Bless His Holy Name!!!
My prayer for you.
Lord, you are greatly to be praised. You are greatly to be praised when things are going “bad” and “wrong” and you are greatly to be praised when things are going “good” and “right”. Help this one to recognize your attention and concern in their immediate situation and to know that you, indeed, care. In the name of Jesus...
Amen
After you log off, why not take the time to read slowly Psalm 34? It is rich.
Then in the words of F. Berriors, T. Brooks, and J. Hamlim:
"Why so downcast, oh, my soul
Put your hope in God
Put your hope in God
Put your hope in God
O, why so downcast, Oh, my soul
Put your hope in God
and bless the Lord oh, my soul
Bless the Lord
He's the lifter
Of my countenance
Bless the Lord
He's the lifter
Of my head
Bless the Lord
He's the lifter
Of my countenance
I will never be ashamed."
Amen and Amen