God's Glory Church

“Sing to the Lord, His saints, and glorify the memory of His sanctuary.” — Psalm 29:5

Many years ago I took care of my mother while she was in hospice. I am grateful to God for the four months that He allowed me to serve her, and I asked Him to help me through the path of grief. It was often difficult for me to praise God while I was in emotional turmoil. When my mother took her last breath, I was overcome with strong sobs, and I whispered: “Hallelujah.” For a long time I felt guilty for praising God in that devastating moment, until years later I looked closely at Psalm 29.

In the “Song of Consecration of the House” David glorified God for His faithfulness and mercy (vv. 2-4). He called others: “Sing to the Lord” (v. 5). Then David looked at how God closely intertwines difficulties and hope (v. 6). He recognized that there are times of sorrow and joy, times of feeling safe and confused (vv. 7-8). His pleas for help are permeated with confidence in God (vv. 8-11). The echo of this praise is heard in the moment of crying and joy, grief and joy (v. 12). After all, David speaks of his undying devotion to God (v. 13).

We, like David, can sing: “Lord, my God, I will praise You forever!” (v. 13). God, in whatever condition we are, can help us express our trust in Him and lead us to worship Him with joyful shouts and tears of praise.

How has God helped you to trust Him even in the face of your emotional turmoil? How to praise Him in times of difficulty?

Dear God, please help me to trust You and praise You as I try to deal with my emotions.

Author: Sosheel Dixon