All of us have moments when we feel discouraged by life’s circumstances. Our loved ones may try to lighten our load or lift our spirits, but unfortunately, their efforts can fall short. We wonder if we will ever emerge from today’s trying situation with our joy intact. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. —Psalm 42:11 (NIV)But I will keep on hoping for your help; I will praise you more and more. —Psalm 71:14 (NLT)It’s good to know that our Father invites us to confide in him, to share our feelings honestly in prayer. He cares for us and understands our needs and weaknesses. We can draw near to him by singing psalms or hymns, or reflecting on his goodness and speaking well of him. Of course, there are times when this may seem too difficult, but even whispering a prayer of praise can usher in a sense of liberty and peace.

KEEP ON PRAISING, KEEP ON HOPING

The psalmist in Psalm 42 questions the reason for his despair; then he instructs himself to hope in God. The expression, “I will still praise him” signifies an inner determination and a forward-facing outlook. He persistently, continually, and repeatedly praises the Lord. This allows him to focus on God his Savior, the One who will bring deliverance and victory. To have hope in God is to wait expectantly for him. Since he is faithful to help, we can know that we will praise him again. This gives us at least a vision of ourselves rejoicing in the future.

Praising God in the hard times doesn’t minimize or deny heaviness of heart. Instead, it redirects our focus on who God is. He never changes. He promised never to leave or abandon his children, so we can count on his presence, even when our emotions can’t confirm it. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).