Praise God When?
Read Psalm 150
Let everything that breathes praise the LORD!
         Praise the Load!
— Psalm 150:6 (NRsv)

The lake was glimmering as I took my morning stroll in sight of autumn leaves in brilliant colors. The birds werechirping as if they were praising God, and puffy clouds were making their way across a bright blue sky. But at the moment, I didn’t find joy in nature’s signs of praise. I was burdened with many thoughts. I was concerned about my future now that I was retired. I wondered if we should move closer to our children and grandchildren. I worried about brokenness in the family circle. I fretted over people who were ill. I feared for our nation and our world. Then what seemed to be a clear voice came to me, saying, “Why don’t you praise me?” I thought, Lord, is that you? I began to praise God. For the rest of my walk, I praised God for life, for every breath. I praised God for my children, my randchildren, and my wife of 50 years. I praised God for my church family, for people to love. When I completed my walk and prepared to enter my home, I sang, “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; praise him, all creatures here below.” * I had cast my burdens on the Lord, and the Lord had sustained me. Prayer: 0 God, we praise you in all circumstances, so that our spirits may be renewed. Amen.

        Thought for the Day
     Praise God, no matter what.