So, anyway, about late afternoon today, I started to feel downright surly. I was in the car, and thought, "Lord, help me out. I don't like feeling this way. Please help me know what to do." And, oh how I thank Him for His faithfulness... like clockwork, there popped a new thought into my head. I was reminded, quite unexpectedly, of something a friend of mine had recently written. She'd shared about an experience of hers and that, in the midst of a painful time, the act of praise had powerfully pulled her into a new place. Ah, thank you, and thank You!
I began the process of praise-ifying my night. At first, it was sort of rote, and didn't have a lot of heart behind it. "Lord, you are the maker of the beautiful sunset - I praise Your name for You creative and amazing beautiful works." And the words sound nice, but re-read them with a monotone voice, and that's about where I started. But, thankfully, I learned the principle of acting myself into "right thinking" rather than trying to think myself into "right acting" long ago, so I kept on. It's been several hours now, and I stepped outside just a moment ago to let my dogs out. I looked up at the stars and was honestly struck with wonder at His beauty; "Lord, I praise Your name as the maker of this wonder." And I meant it. And I feel certain He knew it. He always does.
I decided as my night had progressed, and my heart had been changed that I was going to adopt a new idea, and begin to pursue a "lifestyle of praise." It's like an attitude of gratitude (which also has my wholehearted endorsement!), but with a new slant.
In honor of this, and with the blessing of the Spirit's leading, I am going to close with this verse. May it dwell in you richly...
"But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more" Psalms 71:14 (NIV).
I love You, Lord! I praise Your name for You are Glory!
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