Praise

“We don't deserve praise! The LORD alone deserves all of the praise, because of his love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 115:1 CEV)

Recently, I saw a post on Facebook in which a person expressed sadness over a designer’s suicide. She went on to mention how many of the designer’s purses and shoes she had bought over the years.  Instead of promoting awareness of the prevalence of mental illness, her message seemed self-promoting.

The same day, a friend called and mentioned a conversation with her young children. Her words conveyed how God was working in her home. As I listened, my heart was filled with joy and hope. This was the antithesis of bragging; this was PRAISE! Every word pointed to God and glorified Him.

Only God knows the motives and intentions of individuals. Every day brings forth opportunities to shine the spotlight on God’s work in our lives or on ourselves. Perhaps the Lord took the broken pieces of your life and restored you. You can choose to present your renewed self to the public and take credit for your restoration, OR, you can admit that you were a mess and give God all the praise.

“Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found;

Was blind, but now I see.” (John Newton)