Today’s scripture: Psalm 138 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Vivian Wyatt):
A British publisher finally decided to retire at age 70. He was given the usual dinner. His associates were happy for him and heaped elaborate praise on him. When the time came to respond, the old gentleman got up and said, “I had no idea I was held in such esteem. I shall stay on.”
Why is it that we wait for someone to retire or change jobs or die to praise them? The best words I’ve heard about some people are at their funerals. And why is it that we wait until we are ready to die or it feels like we are going to die before we give God more praise?
I will praise you, O Lord. How should we praise the Lord? The Psalmist mentions some ways:
1- I will praise you in my heart — Where our heart is, there is where our treasure will be. Therefore set your hearts on God.
2- I will praise you in the world — Don’t be ashamed to praise God in public. I don’t mean a loud hallelujah, but let others see God in you by your actions.
3- I will praise you in song — Music is a wonderful way to praise God. It will help to center and get in God’s presence.
4- I will praise you in humility — James in chapter 4 says that if we humble ourselves before God, God will lift us up.
5- I will praise you in trouble — What better time to praise God? If you put your eyes on God, you can’t keep them on your troubles.
Can we ever praise God too much? I don’t think so, but I do believe that we can “under” praise God.
Thought for the day: Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise God all creatures here below. Praise God for all love has done. Praise Creator, Christ and Spirit, One. ~The Doxology Inclusive version
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.