Praise Him Even In The Storm
BRD REFLECTIONS:
(Yeo Su Chen, Chairperson, Communications Ministry)
READ:
Psalm 61 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
The Psalms are like an ancient journal, filled with raw, honest prayers. They capture the full spectrum of human emotion – joy, sorrow, peace, anger, confusion. This reminds us that we worship a God who not only knows our struggles but truly understands them. He’s not some distant deity, but a personal God who cares deeply about every detail of our lives. He gets what we’re going through, why we feel the way we do, and He wants to help us navigate the ups and downs of our human journey.
APPLY:
To me, Psalm 61 highlights three powerful truths that I can apply:
- I can cry out to God in any circumstance: Verse 2 reminds me, “From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint.” No matter where I am, emotionally or physically, God is within reach.
- God hears my prayers: “You have heard my vows, God,” the Psalmist declares in verse 5. I can pour out my heart to Him, knowing that He listens.
- I can praise Him even in my deepest struggles. This can be the hardest part. When life throws its curveballs, it’s easy to lose sight of His promise or praise. Yet, verse 8 reminds me: “Then I will ever sing in praise of your name and fulfill my vows day after day.” Clinging to praise, even when it’s difficult, strengthens my faith and deepens my relationship with God.
DO:
I remember that in every season, good or bad, I worship a God of love, grace, and mercy. But just like any relationship, my connection with God needs nurturing. I am reminded to:
- Dive into His Word: Spend time reading and studying the Bible. It’s how I get to know Him better.
- Put His teachings into practice: Faith isn’t just about believing; it’s about living out what I believe.
- Serve others: Show God’s love to the people around me.
- Praise Him in the storm: When challenges hit, don’t just cry out for help. Continue to worship, thank, and praise Him. This is where my faith can be deepened.
PRAY:
Father, thank You for being a God who understands. Thank You for hearing my prayers and being my refuge in times of trouble. Help me to remember and apply these truths, to seek You in every circumstance, and to praise You even when life is hard. Give me the grace of understanding, and strength to deepen my faith and become more like You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
