I Inhabit the Praises of my People

³But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. (Psalm 22:3)

What a beautiful reminder this morning - God not only delights in our praise, but God is present in our praise. Calling out in prayer in a way invites God and invokes His very presence. If we feel lonely, if we feel lost, upset, tired, wanting, the secret is to praise... to feel God's presence.

A similar reminder is presented in Philippians. Even when we are presenting petitions (or prayer requests) to God, it is advised that we do so "with thanksgiving"... in order to avoid "being anxious" about these situations:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

I have recently started reading books on childbirth that present various techniques for calming, relaxation and coping with the pain of the experience. These include visualization, meditation, art, breathing, etc. And one technique presented is 'gratefulness meditation'. The book reviews the power of gratefulness or "thanksgiving". It refocuses our energy, and presents us with a new perspective and frame of reference.

There is so much to be thankful for, and we cannot thank God too much for all that He has given us.

Praise God ...

for health,

for time with family,

for the coming of a child,

for options and choices,

for holiday celebrations,

for a beautiful, warm, sunny day,

for a loving spouse who shows their affection,

for a nutritious meal on the table when you are hungry,

and for so much more!

Praise God...

the One who inhabits our Praise!