Constant and Continual

 

Psalm 44:8 (NET) - In God we boast all day long, and we will continually give thanks to your name.

The heading in this translation refers to Psalm 44 as a “well-written song.”

I am inclined to agree.

First, the Psalmist reminds us that we are to praise God “all day long.”

Second, he reminds us to “continually give thanks.”

But human beings find praise and gratitude difficult at times.

We certainly find praise and gratitude easier when things are going well for us.

But they do not come so easily when circumstances become difficult.

Is it possible to praise God when illness strikes?

Is it possible to be grateful when we face unemployment?

Is it possible to praise or be grateful when a loved one dies?

Despite human reasoning, the answer is yes.

Paul, in his first letter to the Thessalonians, reminds us to rejoice always.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 (NET) - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,

That means rejoicing no matter the circumstances.

But how can we rejoice when faced with things like illness, unemployment, or loss?

Paul gives us the answer.

We are to “pray without ceasing.”

Prayer is the key.

In prayer we find that the Lord is our strength.

In prayer we remember that the Lord is worthy of praise throughout the day. 

In prayer we find that we are always able to praise Him even in difficult circumstances.

Prayer reminds us that there is no one like God.

It reminds us that we may approach God daily for there is no other help but His.

Challenging times are temporary.

But God always hears us and answers us.

Therefore, God deserves our constant praise.

He also deserves our continual gratitude.

Both are possible when we persist in prayer.

Blessings,

Jim Pokorny

The Other Brother Jim

Look for me at https://faithfulfeetteam.blogspot.com/ on Friday, October 1, 2021.

I will be back here on Friday, October 8, 2021