Day 44: Praising God During Difficulties

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 34:1-10

Central Thought: You can learn to praise God in your difficult situations

How do you respond to the difficulties of life? Do you sulk? Do you become bitter at God or others? Do you become depressed and withdraw from others? Or do you rejoice in the Sovereign God who is in control of all things?

Many believe Psalm 34 was written while David was fleeing from Saul. Not only was David concerned about losing his life at the hands of Saul, but he was also living among the Philistines, Israel’s enemy. But David refused to let circumstances or danger keep him from praising God.

We can draw several life principles from this Psalm:

• Praise is to be continual (verse 1).
• Praise can be a testimony and encourage others (verses 2,3).
• Praise can help us remember our affliction and God’s deliverance (verse 4).
• When we praise God we can experience peace and joy, even in dire circumstances (verse 5).
• Financial or social status does not keep us from looking to God and experiencing His help (verse 6).
• God’s protection surrounds those who follow Him (verse 7).
• Even though we may go through difficult times, following God brings His grace and divine presence into our lives (verses 8-10).

What difficulty are you facing today? Reflect on how God has helped you in the past, then rejoice in His presence today and how He is going to help you in this difficulty. If you have never turned to God, call on Him. He is there to help.

Devotional Prayer: Lord, I recognize Your power over the difficulty I am facing and ask for Your protection and deliverance. Just as you were with David through difficult times, I know You also are ready to help me as I surrender my need to You.

Today’s Bible Reading: Exodus 35:10-36:38; Matthew 27:32-66; Psalm 34:1-10; Proverbs 9:7-8