Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Hebrews 13:15–16 (NIV)
When my spirits are low, spending time praising Jesus is a sure way to allow His peace and joy to fill me again. It can feel like a sacrifice—an effort that costs something—to form words that focus on His greatness when I’d rather remind Him of everything wrong. I’m grateful that He invites us to be real with Him, to pour out our hurts and concerns. However I also know that it’s important to spend time professing His name, and acknowledging the truth.
The other day I was stuck in bed dealing with a lot of pain and weakness. I tried to offer praise, but couldn’t keep focused long enough to string thoughts together. “Lord, thank You for creating the world and . . .” My mind wandered away from any specifics. “Jesus, You are so loving and . . . ” I’d shift my position and lose the last part of the sentence. I wanted so much to praise Him with my whole heart and soul and mind, but floundered.
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Then I remembered the alphabet game. On long car trips, we’d look around for objects starting with the letter A, then when we’d run out of ideas, we’d move on to B. I wondered if I could use that same tool to help me praise.
“Lord, I’m so grateful for the flavor of apples. Thank You for creating them. For my friend Amy. For the authority You have over this world. For authors whose books have nourished me. You designed butterflies and beaches and You are bountiful and full of blessings.” As I worked my way through the alphabet, my heart grew more peaceful and I drifted off to sleep.
FAITH STEP: Praise Jesus for His qualities and His gifts, using the alphabet tool
