There Is Joy In Praise

When a famous British writer first gave his life to the Lord, he initially resisted praising God. In fact, he called it “a stumbling block.” His struggle was “in the suggestion that God Himself demanded it.” Yet the writer finally realized “it is in the process of being worshipped that God communicates His presence” to His people. Then we, “in perfect love with God,” find joy in Him no more separable “than the livid reflection a mirror sheds” from the “brightness it receives.”

An Old Testament prophet arrived at this conclusion centuries ago. This prophet complaining to God about evils aimed at the people of Judah, came to see that praising God leads to joy, not in what God does, but in who our Lord is. Thus, even in a national or world crisis, God is still great. Scripture shares:

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord” (Habakkuk 3:17–18). “I will be joyful in God my Savior,” he added.

As the writer realized, “The whole world rings with praise.” The prophet, likewise, surrendered to praising God always, finding rich joy in the One who “marches on forever”.

When you praise God, what’s the impact on your spirit? Reflecting on God’s goodness, share a time your spirit was impact. Your comment here will bless another. Plus, I promise to write you back.

See you next Sunday

MJ