PRAY PRAISING

Even when you don't feel like it. Not really easy to do. The last thing you feel like doing, when you're down and out, is being happy. Sometimes, the difficulties need to be finished off with misery and a downcast face. I might want to wallow around. And sulk.

But God sends the rain on the wicked and the believer.

He causes his sun to rise 

on the evil and the good,

and sends rain on the

righteous and the unrighteous.

Matthew 5:45b

The Bible tells us to endure hardship as discipline. Maintain your confidence in God. Hang in there. Keep praying. And then there's one step further, praising God even in dire conditions and extreme hurt.

About midnight

Paul and Silas were praying

and singing hymns to God,

and the other prisoners 

were listening to them.

Acts 16:25

This past week has been a difficult one for me, here in my neck of the woods. Rain falls here too. Pain is as prolific as the falling colorful leaves of the autumn season. Hurt falls on me like dead leaves to the ground. But, confidence gained is not thrown away. All I need do is see that perfect orange leaf—to trust Jesus and His faithfulness, and rely on His word.

Praise God in prayer for many things. What has He done for you lately? What did you notice He did? Did you catch that last miracle? Did you know He answered your prayer, even though you think He didn't because the result you want hasn't happened? Brainstorm things to praise Him for. It might start off slow, due to lack of practice and a very poor, grumpy disposition. But before long, I think you'll be sounding like Paul and Silas. At the very least, at least try.

Praise awaits you, O God, in Zion;

to you our vows will be fulfilled.

O you who hear prayer,

to you all men will come.

Psalm 65:1-2

Pray praising, through good times and bad, through sun and rain, through peace and war.

Thanks be to God for His love.