“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. I will glory in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me: let us exalt his name together.” Psalms 34:1-3 NIVUK
It seems counter intuitive to praise God when I’m feeling afflicted, to rejoice in Him, or to get together with others and exalt His name, when all I want to do is hide away and deal with my affliction on my own. And yet, it’s actually the most helpful thing I can do. Being reminded of who God is, and what He has already done for me is exactly what I need to hear and declare to stir faith and hope when I feel at my worst. Being with other believers in that atmosphere of praise can lift my spirit and change my perspective and heal my broken heart as I see You for who You are! Go read the whole of Psalm 34 it is dynamite! Lord, I so underestimate the power of praise. Would you help me to rejoice in You today and to extol Your name at all times, especially in those moments when I’m feeling most afflicted and conflicted. May I know Your closeness, Your comfort, strength and saving power Jesus, as I lift up Your mighty name. Amen 👆🏼🙏🏼❤️