Be thankful, Rejoice always, Praise Him–Really? In days like these? You’ve got to be kidding! Does this sound like you right now?

Our attitudes are a major factor in our lives. One definition of this word attitude is: our emotional response to our circumstances. It’s easy to imagine all the different responses that are evident right now around the country. Scripture has some encouraging words for us.

“But O my soul, don’t be discouraged. Don’t be upset. Expect God to act! For I know that I shall again have plenty of reason to praise Him for all that He will do. He is my help! He is my God!” Psalm 42:11 (The Living Bible)

And Psalm 43:5 continues, “O my soul, why be so gloomy and discouraged? Trust in God! I shall again praise Him for his wondrous help; he will make me smile again, for He is my God!”

Praising is a choice. We can choose to be upset and miserable or choose to be thankful and joyful even if we don’t feel like it. (That’s the sacrifice part). Scripture is so uplifting and tells us what we need to hear and what we need to be doing. Look at these verses:

“Praise the Lord, How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise the Lord.” Psalm 147:1

“Sing to the Lord a new song, His praises from the ends of the earth.” Isaiah 42:10

Let’s remember all God has done for us in the past and know He will do the same now and in the future.

So–what will be your choice this week?