The Importance of Being There
I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.—2 John 1:12 (NIV)
But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble…. I sing praise to you…my loving God.—PSALM 59:16–17 NIV
Talk about trouble—David had more than his fair share of it. Day in and day out, year after year, David was a wanted man pursued by a jealous king. Homeless, on the run, accompanied by a bunch of lowlifes, David lays out an interesting pattern in the psalms.
First, he will cry out to God in sorrow, complaint, and even occasional whining. But invariably, he then shifts to joyful praise.
We can be that real with God, too. We can tell Him our heart’s burdens and vent our hurts, disappointments, and struggles to Him. He can handle it.
David didn’t try to sound “spiritual.” He was genuine with God. Once he had cleared the air, his heart turned to thanksgiving and praise. He’d bring out the instruments, write a song or two, and regain his strength.
Music can be a source of strength to a weary caregiver—and to the one trapped by the need of care. Whistling, humming, or singing a song of praise can help refocus a grumbling heart and restore hope when it’s been waning.
Today, fill your world with songs of praise and worship.
Mighty Father, I thank You for the wonder of music. Help me to sing Your praises—of Your strength and love daily, for You are my refuge.
I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.—2 John 1:12 (NIV)
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.—2 Corinthians 1:3–4 (NIV)
The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper.—Proverbs 19:8 (NIV)