Praises in the Storm

Today's Reading:
AM - Psalm 70 and 71
PM - Psalm 74
Gospel - John 5:19-29

For reflection: What is the Father doing through Jesus in your life?

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Where do you turn in times of trouble?  The past few weeks I have encountered many people in my life, brothers and sisters in Christ, who are experiencing all kinds of pain and earthly devastating events.  This has weighed heavy on my heart causing me to go about deeply burdened.  I was encouraged by reading Psalm 70 and 71.

David was pursued by Saul.  He was torn away from his home and his family, and how does he handle it?  He cries out to the Lord in Psalm 70.  He acknowledges his desperation and seeks the Lord's help.  He blesses those who walk in the ways of the Lord and humbles himself before his God.

The author of Psalm 71 is anonymous.  Here the Psalmist clings to the Lord as his refuge and fortress, requesting deliverance from his enemies.  The other thing I noticed here is his praise for the Lord.  I'm reminded of the Casting Crowns song, "I Will Praise You in this Storm."

Today I had the opportunity to attend a mini retreat and entered in my burdened state.  We began with a time of praise.  Standing before the Lord, I understood that the only way any of life's struggles could be truly survived is by knowing the Lord is in control.  "In all things God works for the good of those who love him who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).  In knowing the Lord and trusting in Him, how could one not sing and shout His praises just as our Psalmist does.  

So no matter what you face today, praise God as this Psalmist does:

"My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you- I, whom you have redeemed."

- Renee Preston