A Day to Praise

I will bless The Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in The Lord; let  the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify The Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought The Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:1-4

David is on the run. His companions are a ragtag band of outcasts. If this were a Western movie, imagine a band of outlaws on dark horses, hiding out in the hills. Or, picture Robin Hood and his men hiding out in the Sherwood Forest, just a step ahead from the sheriff of Nottingham.

When my world feels out of control, when circumstances take an unexpected turn, or just when I am tired of waiting for a “good day,” I must look to David’s example, and decide to praise.

but what is there to praise about?? Again, look to David’s example

This poor man cried, and The Lord heard him. . .the angel of The Lord encamped around those who fear him. . .the eyes of The Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry. . .when the righteous cry for help, The Lord hears. . .the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. . . Psalm 34:6,7,15,17,18

God’s unchanging character is the basis for praise. Circumstances change. God remains unchanging. I may feel invisible; God sees me and will never take His eyes off me. When, in His sovereign wisdom He does not prevent a broken heart, He comes near with His comfort and grace.

When I keep my focus on me, whether what I am doing or what is being done to me, despair and discouragement are ready companions. But when I look up, in submission to and trust in my loving, good Savior, I am helped. I have hope.

The Lord redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned. Psalm 34:22

Jesus took all my condemnation. He was punished so I could receive mercy. He was forsaken by God so I would never experience abandonment. He was rejected so I can be totally accepted.

That’s a true reason to praise.