I realize my last two posts have been a bit...heavy(?)...perhaps even depressing. I don’t mean them to be. I’ve never been much of a journal-er, so it’s more about my mind having all of these thoughts and trying to get them out with some semblance of coherency. Unfortunately, I am a realist/pessimist at my core (something the Lord is working on in my soul) so my mental process tends to be birthed from a more “negative” or “cold” (I prefer “analytical” - ha!) headspace. But, that tends to yield a dark tone. My apologies.
Anyway, I thought I would follow up with the flip side of the waiting-&-wrestling-with-God coin:
PRAISE.
Spiritual disciplines are just that -- discipline. Discipline is defined as the practice of training to do something in a controlled habitual way. So, spiritual disciplines such as prayer, diving into the scriptures, stewardship, fasting, and solitude are brought forth through intentional training. Some of them are more natural to our personalities and strengths than others.
As a self-identified realist...okay, borderline pessimist...the spiritual discipline of gratitude ends up being a long arduous ride on the struggle bus. However, I also know that God works and reveals Himself in more pronounced ways when we are challenged. (The whole get out of your comfort zone thing…)
Declaring His goodness through praise and worship regardless of circumstance is (I believe) a spiritual discipline that is integral to every Christian walk, albeit sometimes crazy difficult.
Throughout the Bible, we see numerous instances of God-fearing people who praise regardless of their situation.
Paul & Silas rejoicing in prison, y’all. (Acts 16)
Mary magnifying God after learning of the blessing (which could have cost her a marriage and socio-economic standing). (Luke 1)
David singing songs of praise, thanksgiving, and even lament. (queue like all of the Psalms)
Moses proclaiming the name of the Lord even when he knew he would die before entering the Promised Land. (Deuteronomy 32)
I don’t always understand the path He is taking me on. But I know as I strive for obedience in my pursuit of Him, He is molding and shaping me for a life in service of Him.
In the quiet, I will praise Him.
In achievements, I will praise Him.
In my tears, I will praise Him.
In communion with my oikos, I will praise Him.
In defeat, I will praise Him.
In joy-filled days, I will praise Him.
In the mundane, I will praise Him.
In waiting, I will praise Him.
...Because I trust in Him, in His name, in His power, in His dominion.
Growth happens where and when you least expect it. There are definitely seasons when the praise coming from my lips falls flat on my own deaf ears and heart. But declaring His victory is a verbal affirmation and confession of our faith and trust in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.
I’ve always wrestled with not “feeling” the Spirit enough. (Side bar for another time: I think this is a dangerous trap; especially in ‘American Christianity’.) However, when I am intentional about my praise unto Him, it’s a much easier go of quieting myself and listening better.
- - -
Yet, I will praise Him.
- - -
Praise God from whom all blessings flow
Praise Him all creatures here below
Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
Comments
Post a Comment