The Power of Praise

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

If you’re like me, you’ve often found yourself asking God what His will for you is in a given situation. Especially during these challenging times, it seems all the more difficult to understand what God could possibly be up to and how he wants to use us. One of my favorite passages to come back to during these times is 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, as it is very direct about what God is asking us to do.

Notice that this passage has no asterisk marks next to it. When it says all circumstances, it means all circumstances, including the most life-altering circumstances like we’re in right now. Whether we are winning or losing in competition, whether we are doing great in our academics or barely hanging on, whether we are feeling the deepest connections with those around us or feeling isolated because a pandemic forces us apart, what is a response that is in line with God’s will? We, the church, are called to respond, no matter what, with rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving.

When we are able to do this, we invite God into the situation. Psalm 22:3 states the following: “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” Our praise elevates God, declaring that He, rather than our circumstances, is our King! It shifts our focus onto Him, demonstrating our faith that He is still in control.

The world is longing for a sense of security in the midst of the chaos. If followers of Christ are able to maintain a spirit of praise during these trying times, the world will take notice and long for the peace that we have. I challenge all of us, living in a world where panic and fear are the current norms, to be intentional and consistent in our rejoicing, prayer, and thanksgiving. In so doing, I believe we will be amazed at just how contagious the power of praise can be.

Additional passages:

1) Proverbs 17:22

2) Acts 16:16-36

3) Psalm 100:4-5

4) Psalm 63:3-5

Jacob McConnell, Junior, Men’s Golf, from Wooster, Ohio

Image by Daniel Reche from Pixabay