There will be times in life where we simply cannot find the blessings. There will be times when we are deeply troubled and sorrowful, anxious and alone. What do we do? Where do we go?
Jonah had good reason to be filled with panic and anxiety. When he turned away from God and did not follow the path as instructed by God, he found himself in the belly of a whale. The deep darkness surrounded him for three days, until the fish spit him out on shore.
His grateful heart set him on the right course, determined to do God’s bidding and share God’s truth with the evil-doers in Nineveh. Jonah understood the sacrifice it required to praise God during the tough times.
But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, “Salvation comes from the Lord.” Jonah 2:9
Sometimes it will take a sacrifice on our part to continue to praise our God in the midst of tough times. Remembering the deep suffering of Jesus reminds us that He understands sorrow. He understands pain. He took on the sins of the world. Praise Him through it all and allow Him to share the pain. He will be our blessing in times of deep darkness and pain. Praise Him even then.
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise-the fruit of lips that openly profess His name. Hebrews 13:15
Lord,
Sometimes we will share in Your sufferings. Bring good out of our darkest days. Show us and remind us of Your glory and Your promises through it all.
In Jesus name,
Amen
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