August Sonnet
Praise and prayer. They go together like crickets and cicadas in August, which are in full force now at this height of hot, humid, oppressive summer heat.

How often do we include praise in our prayers? Is prayer always a list of requests and not a list of praises as well? Today's poem is about praising God in prayer. 

Then Hannah prayed and said:

"My heart rejoices in the LORD;

in the LORD my horn is lifted high.

My mouth boasts over my enemies,

for I delight in your deliverance."

1 Samuel 2:1

Hannah had prayed in bitterness of soul, as we read in the Bible. She had made a vow to God and was now thanking God for granting her what she had asked for. God, the Almighty Creator, can listen to us! She knew there was no one like God. Only the LORD is Holy and is the Rock of Salvation and can turn great sorrow into joy!
Here is another thankful person in the Bible:

And Mary said:

"My soul praises the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has been mindful of the humble state

of his servant. From now on all generations

will call be blessed, for the Mighty One

has done great things for me—

holy is his name."

Luke 1:46-49

Mary sang about God's mercy and mighty deeds with a grateful heart when she was given the news that she would bear the Son of God. She told of God's goodness and love to her. Is God still able to be good to those who call on Him? Who truly believe? Do you recognize Him? Lift praises in prayer, being grateful like Mary.

"This is how you should pray:

"'Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be thy name..."

Matthew 6:9

Jesus' own words tell us how to begin the Lord's Prayer. Hallowed be thy name...or praise be God's name. Creation praises God because He is the Creator. Look at this verse about having a place for God's Name. Is not the Creator powerful?

And rejoice before the LORD your God

at the place he will choose 

as a dwelling for his Name.

Deuteronomy 16:11a 

Praise demonstrates a deep, reverent love for God. We came into this world with nothing. Yet, God in his awesome power has provided what we have asked for in faith and even what we have not asked for. He did this for King Solomon. 

Let nature remind you. Let the chirping crickets and buzzing cicadas help remind you to be thankful for all God has done, turning sorrow into JOY!