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Hopeful Praise
One of my friends was in tears on a beautiful summer day, unable to deal with life’s difficulties. Another could not look beyond the life-altering sadnesses of her past. Still another struggled with the closing of the small church he had pastored faithfully. A fourth friend had lost his job at a local ministry.
What can our struggling friends—or any of us—do to find hope? Where do we turn when tomorrow offers no happy promises?
We can praise or “bless” the Lord, as David said in Psalm 103. In the middle of trouble, acknowledging God’s role in our lives can redirect our thinking from the hurts of our hearts and force us to dwell instead on the greatness of our God. David knew trouble. He faced the threat of enemies, the consequences of his own sin, and the challenges of sorrow. Yet he also recognized the healing power of praise.
That’s why in Psalm 103 he can list reasons to turn our attention to God, who gives us many benefits: He forgives us, heals us, redeems us, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires, and renews us. David reminds us that God provides justice and righteousness, and He is gracious and loving.
Take it from David: Praising God’s greatness puts hope in our troubled hearts. —Dave Branon
Praise can lighten your heaviest burden.
One of my friends was in tears on a beautiful summer day, unable to deal with life’s difficulties. Another could not look beyond the life-altering sadnesses of her past. Still another struggled with the closing of the small church he had pastored faithfully. A fourth friend had lost his job at a local ministry.
What can our struggling friends—or any of us—do to find hope? Where do we turn when tomorrow offers no happy promises?
We can praise or “bless” the Lord, as David said in Psalm 103. In the middle of trouble, acknowledging God’s role in our lives can redirect our thinking from the hurts of our hearts and force us to dwell instead on the greatness of our God. David knew trouble. He faced the threat of enemies, the consequences of his own sin, and the challenges of sorrow. Yet he also recognized the healing power of praise.
That’s why in Psalm 103 he can list reasons to turn our attention to God, who gives us many benefits: He forgives us, heals us, redeems us, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires, and renews us. David reminds us that God provides justice and righteousness, and He is gracious and loving.
Take it from David: Praising God’s greatness puts hope in our troubled hearts. —Dave Branon
Praise can lighten your heaviest burden.
Scripture
About this Plan
These reflections from Our Daily Bread are designed to bring comfort, hope, and encouragement to those facing illness. Each devotional has been selected to address the worries and pain associated with physical illness and injuries and serves as a reminder that the Great Physician is with you and knows your every need.
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We would like to thank Our Daily Bread for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: www.odb.org
