It’s not easy to sing praises during storms of disappointment.
Our flesh and emotions are drawn to outpourings of “Boo-hoo” if we think only of what has been or might be lost.
But if we contemplate how our earthly and eternal future WILL be better and brighter through our faith in Christ, then worship moves from the “Do I have to?” mode and into the “Boy, do I want to!” mode.
King David had to sort through many times when circumstances were set to topple his faith and his flesh.
But almost without exception, he chose the path that pursued God rather than avoided Him.
Even when times were really tough.
I loved what I read this morning from Psalm 57 in this regard:
“I am in the midst of lions; I am forced to dwell among man-eating beasts, whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords.
“Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth.
“They spread a net for my feet— I was bowed down in distress. They dug a pit in my path — but they have fallen into it themselves.
“My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn.” (vv. 4-8)
Many people had it in their hearts to destroy David or at least torment his life to point of irrelevance in Israel.
But David had it in his heart to praise God no matter what came his way.
This is a great lesson for us. For if we sing praises in the storms that come against us, how much greater our worship will be when we’re not dodging bullets and fiery arrows from the Enemy!
Let God be exalted over all your life.
Sing and make music to Him from a steadfast heart.
May your praise and mine awaken the dawn with songs of praise to our Protector, our Provider and our Redeemer.
As always, I love you
Martin
