Praising God In All Seasons

Ayesha Salier, Australia

Psalm 98

devotional

For me last year was a hard one. Through the lockdown I felt as though I was missing God’s blessings that had bought me so much joy while we were meeting together, things such as devos and church services, being bold and sharing my faith with strangers, and even just having people over for dinners. Having restrictions on the things I found deep happiness in I had to really start searching for joy I could hold on to through all COVID’s ups and downs.

My flatmate got me a reflection journal for my 18th birthday, and in it there is a little column labelled “happy moments”. In a time when I found it hard to find joy in anything, I pushed myself to put entries in this book.

These are some of my favourite “happy moments” from lockdown. They aren’t happy moments because they were relief from what I was going through, or because they helped me see the bigger picture, but rather just because they were the times I was reminded Jesus is Lord of the little things, as well as the big.

“my coffee was spot on today”

“the tiramisu Harper made”

“My scrunchie”

“I spilt my drink on the carpet but it didn’t stain”

These tiny little blessings help me remember just how much God gives us to worship Him for, our salvation should bring praise no matter where our lives are. For my heart to sing and make music to God comes naturally when I’m reflecting on the big and small things He’s done in my life.

So I love this Psalm because it makes me think about people dancing before God, being praise-filled about all the good things He has done for them.

reflection questions

• When was the last time you stopped and praised God for a little thing in your life?

• How can you change your attitude to reflect this psalmist’s?

challenge Memory scripture:

"But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me." – Philippians 2:17-18

practicals

As you go through your day today find a tiny blessing you can praise God for