PRAISE IN THE STORM

When times are tough, our thoughts are often pulled to the quickest solution or even fears about how things could get worse. It's like numerous tiny storms fire up on all sides and merge into a major one, swirling so fiercely that you can't see beyond the struggles. Singing songs of praise are not at the forefront of our minds. When the struggles begin to close in, you may be unable to find those words of prayer and praise. 

It's technically against human nature to remain positive in a situation that seems hopeless. I mean, how can someone possibly be thankful when they've lost someone so important to them? Does it even make sense to trust that all will be well when everything is falling apart right in front of you?  The truth is, the Bible tells us that it's very possible to defy that norm. 

Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMPC

As hard as it is, offering gratitude to God when times are tough plays a very important role in the healing process. The question is: Why be thankful when nothing seems to be going your way? Here is one reason;

 But even if we are faithless, he will still be full of faith, for he never wavers in his faithfulness to us!

2 Timothy 2:13 TPT

 Even when we no longer trust God to pull us out of the storm, He is always faithful. He will always remain true to His nature. Isn't it amazing knowing that no matter how much we lose our faith in God, He'll never go back on His own words? God exalts His word above His name. That is enough proof of how far God is willing to go just to show us how faithful He is! Because of this we can be hopeful that regardless of how bad the situation looks He will still come through in the end.

 So then, my soul, why would you be depressed? Why would you sink into despair? Just keep hoping and waiting on God, your Savior. For no matter what, I will still sing with praise, for you are my saving grace!

Psalms 42:5 TPT 

  Have you ever considered that at times praise is the key you need for a breakthrough? Just look at Paul and Silas and their miraculous escape from the prison. 

Paul and Silas, undaunted, prayed in the middle of the night and sang songs of praise to God, while all the other prisoners listened to their worship. Suddenly, a great earthquake shook the foundations of the prison. All at once every prison door flung open and the chains of all the prisoners came loose.

Acts 16:25‭-‬26 TPT

 These two had just been severely beaten, thrown into the innermost cell and chained but they still had the strength to praise God and pray, loud enough for other inmates to hear. Probably the other prisoners must have thought they were crazy. Like who in their right state of mind remains hopeful enough to sing songs of praise when it looks like they've lost everything? But these two knew the power of praise. Acknowledging God's sovereignty, reminding yourself and Him of the times He's come through for you and being grateful for His faithfulness might just be the key to your getting out of that prison. 

Praise God until you believe it. Praise Him until every part of you agrees with His word. Praise Him until your vision is realigned. Praise Him until the prison walls cave in and the chains become loose. Let your praise be the reason the enemy's camp is confused and defeated as God fights for you(2 Chronicles 20:22). 

Song: Praise You In This Storm- Casting Crowns