"No Matter What"

By Zach Wood

Psalm 34:1-3

I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.

My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.

 

 

Have you had a bad day?  Have you had a really rough week?  Do bad things just seem to keep happening to you no matter what you do?  Sometimes it seems we can never escape having horrible things happen in our lives.  It is just a part of life.  Some days, you think you cannot handle anymore.  We have all been there at one time or another.  Maybe the past few days have just been so rough you cannot possibly believe there is any light at the end of the tunnel.

 

Your boss calls you in and gives you the notice your job is gone immediately.

Your spouse walks through the door and declares your relationship is done for good.

Your teenager storms out the door and leaves you wish harsh, hateful words.

There is no paycheck coming for at least another week or so, but the bill is due tomorrow.

You receive a call from the police department with notice that your child is in trouble again with the law.

 

 

Some days, there just seems to be no hope in sight.  The pressure mounts and you feel like caving.in.  This is the harsh reality of the world we live in.  As we acknowledge this reality, let us also keep in mind the words of this Psalm.  No matter what is happening to us and no matter what circumstances we are facing, we need to remember that we should praise God in the good times and the ugly times.  It is quite easy to praise Him when things are going so well.  However, when life turns upside down, it is extremely hard to trust and give God praise in the storm. 

 

I would encourage you to please not let go of the promises God has made to never leave you or forsake you.  No matter what life is throwing at any one of us, we must stand firm and give God praise for how awesome He is.  Sometimes, praising God feels like the last thing you really want to do in your situation, but He knows the pain you feel and wants to hold you tight.  Let Him.  Cry to Him.  Let it all out!  But.....remember to praise Him!  I remember a clip from "Facing The Giants" movie where the football coach talks about whether they win or lose, they will give God praise. 

 

No matter what happens to you today, tomorrow or next month, remember to always give God praise.  It gets hard when things are tough, but we must praise Him for His goodness and faithfulness and the blessings He has given to us.  I encourage you to give Him praise, no matter what.