But ... what if you don't feel like doing a happy dance or singing and praising?
I say go ahead and do it ...despite your feelings. Even if your praise begins with a conscious choice, believe me; the feeling will follow. Why do I say this? Because I've been there and done that.
In the Bible, the Psalms contain so many verses of praise. David wrote many of them ...despite many difficult and challenging circumstances.
When I think of singing and praising, I can't help but remember a time when I was visiting my friend Jamie in San Antonio. We were driving in the car and a Randy Travis CD was playing called "Worship and Faith". All of a sudden, we heard this voice coming from the backseat singing out loud with Randy. Little Mary had her arms in the air, singing with such emotion raising her arms in genuine praise. It was truly a precious moment and memory. Jamie and I looked at each other with that knowing and thankful look.
My thoughts turn to Steven Curtis Chapman, the award winning Christian musician. In August of this year, his precious daughter Maria died in a tragic accident. His son was backing up the car and hadn't realized his little sister was in the way. She was killed. I wrote about this story in another post.
One of Steven's songs is called "Cinderella" and he wrote the words after putting his daughters to bed at night. He continues to sing this song ...despite his feelings after this overwhelming loss. In an interview I watched, Steven believes that one day he will dance with his Maria in heaven. So, in the meantime, he continues ...to sing and praise God.
I want to challenge you today to praise God regardless of your circumstances. Whether you're happy or depressed, whether you're content or discouraged, whether you're sick or healthy. Praise the One, true, living God who created you and loves you so much.
Will you make the choice and step out and praise God?
I encourage you to visit Iris at Grace Alone, who organizes Thankful Thursday. You can find links to other blogs who are participating today in Thankful Thursday.
As always, I love to read your comments. Thank you for taking the time to read Heart Choices. I'm thankful for each one of you.
Amen, I will continually praise Him, regardless of the circumstances. Bless you dear.
ReplyDeleteDebbie,
ReplyDeleteI find so many times my situation/circumstances may not change but as I praise the Lord my attitude toward them does!
He is worthy to be praised!! I am thankful for you too Debbie! I look forward to reading your blog and am delighted when you visit me as well.
Hugs to you today!
Oh, Debbie, such an awesome post. This is my biggy...praise no matter what. It may sometimes be through gritted teeth and steamy tears, but I do it anyway. So glad I got to read this. Thank you! Be blessed...
ReplyDeleteAmen! God is to be praised regardless of circumstance. My heart rejoices in Him, in good times and bad. I loved your post! Happy Thankful Thursday!
ReplyDeleteI some times think our true worship comes out in difficult times. It is during those times we CHOSE to worship. It is easy to Praise God during good times, but it is when we praise him during the hard times that we grow the most.
ReplyDeleteExcellent post.
PS Box just mailed =) 5 to 7 days.
I visited a blog today (www.twolittlevikings.blogspot.com) that had a wonderful video from YouTube. I think things like this make me realise how wonderful the world can be and I become filled with gratitude. It is one of my favourite songs to hear from Gospel Choirs.
ReplyDeletePlaying For Change:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM
Dear Debbie,
ReplyDeleteImpressing and deeply touching post.
I honestly don't know how I would cope with circumstances like that.
Hope I never have to try.
In Phil 4.4 Paul says
4"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! "
He knew the importance of praising and praise.
Children are wonderfully honest, they sing and dance for joy, not be show off.
I am not that good.
I play music-loudly- when I'm alone and dance with myself.
That's also a good body&soul cure.
From Felisol
PS I have taken down the long playlist from my site, so your dad can easier find his julesanger.
Give him my best.
It gave me chills to read about SCC. He is one of my favorites. We were able to see him in concert in July, it was amazing how he shared so openly about what they've gone through and to hear him sing "Blessed Be Your Name."
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing. I like how you always have nice pictures to go along with your stories!
Psalm 130:7 "I'm going to praise God whether I feel like it or not, and no matter what is happening. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and don't forget all He has done for you". Psalm 103:2
ReplyDeleteThis was on Lisa's blog today and it sure is fitting with your post!
I am so thankful for your wisdom that you shared today and let's dance, sing and praise Him together!
Love and blessings,
Jill
Amen! I have also been there and done that...it does work. He doesn't ask us to praise Him when we "feel" like it but in everything give thanks. It is hard sometimes, but always worth the effort.
ReplyDeleteI am encouraged by Steven Curtis Chapman...even, during one of the worst times in their lives...they continued to praise God and know He was in control.
Happy TT!
Jennifer
What an inspiring post. This is such good advice. I've seen it in my life too. Thank you for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Charlotte
Debbie,
ReplyDeleteFirst I want to thank you. You have become such an amazing presence in our online community. I read your comments about and am encouraged. I am deeply touched by the words you often leave at my place. God has gifted your with a spiritual gift of encouragment. Girl, and you are good with this gift. You give it away just as the Lord wants.
Beautiful TT post. Have a blessed day today and tomorrow. Hugs.
Praise Him in the morning, Praise Him in the noon time, praise Him till the sun goes down, My grandma always sang that...
ReplyDeleteDebbie I have some new year resolutions I am planning and one is exercise and healthy eating... I have gotten away from that becasue of stress of my parents health and working so much but I am looking forward to a new year and some definate changes.
Come visit my blog...there is a surprise for you.
ReplyDeleteSandy
Thank-you for always being so encouraging and uplifting. So often you remind me of the things that are really important. Love you.
ReplyDelete