Ezra 3:11 (KJV)
And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
The above Scripture captures a moment of celebration as the Israelites laid the foundation of the temple after returning from exile. The people of Judah emerged from captivity to face the broken ruins of Jerusalem and the temple with determination. Ezra, along with several other devoted leaders, took charge to guide the people in rebuilding the temple for God. Once the builders completed the foundation, the most critical part of the structure, they paused their work to offer heartfelt praise and thanksgiving to God. With unwavering voices, the people loudly proclaimed God’s goodness and faithful love, refusing to let difficult times hinder their worship and gratitude. As they gave thanks and praised the Lord, it gave them strength to see that His love never fails. The people shouted for joy because of the new opportunity to worship God in Jerusalem. Their joyful worship was a response to God’s faithfulness, but it was also mixed with tears; some rejoiced at the new beginning, while others mourned the loss of the former temple.
One of the most powerful tools for shifting our emotions during challenging times is the act of praising God through song. This practice has the remarkable ability to lift us from the depths of complaint and despair to the heights of exaltation. It not only prompts God into action but also transforms the spiritual atmosphere around us, making His Presence palpable and immediate. By engaging in this kind of praise, we assert a change in our emotional state and invite divine intervention into our lives. It is written in 1 Chronicles 16:33-34, “Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy before the LORD, for he comes to judge the earth. Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” Praise unleashes God’s Power into our lives, granting us the victory we seek, for He delights in our gratitude and worship, making the opinions of others insignificant. In moments of complaint or mistreatment, we can choose to respond with praise and thanks to God. When faced with anger, sadness, or overwhelming emotions, let us immerse ourselves in worship and embrace His truth through heartfelt praise. This empowering act allows us to declare His Truth over our circumstances.
Beloved, offer praise and thanks to God with a genuine and happy heart because it will please Him better than a sacrifice. In times of problems and trials, cultivate the attitude of praise and thanksgiving. Put God first, for when you do, you will find your heart also filled with joy and praise. Today, take some time to thank and praise God for all things. Choose to see the good things in your life and be thankful for them. Declare the goodness and glory of the Lord, for He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As you praise and thank Him, trust that out of His very nature, He will hear and respond to you with grace upon grace. Thank God, for He loves you and is working mightily on your behalf. Recognize God’s goodness in your life, even in difficult seasons. Praise God not just in moments of victory but also in times of rebuilding. Every step of progress in life deserves celebration. Whether it’s an answered prayer, a moment of growth, or an unexpected blessing, thank God for the journey instead of just waiting for the big victories. Remember, praise and thanksgiving will prevent the enemy from dethroning you because God cannot be overthrown!
O Lord, I receive the grace to praise You at all times and in all things. Help me to be a temple of worship for Your Service in Jesus’ Name.