In what ways can we remember to bless the LORD during trials? Bless the LORD, O My Soul—David’s Call to Every Believer “Bless the LORD, O my soul; all that is within me, bless His holy name.” (Psalm 103:1) • David commands his own soul to praise, reminding us that blessing the LORD is an act of the will, not a response to changing feelings. • Trials do not nullify this command; they magnify its importance. Why Blessing God in Hardship Safeguards the Heart • Keeps the focus on God’s unchanging character rather than shifting circumstances (Malachi 3:6). • Strengthens trust: praise is faith expressed aloud (Psalm 34:1–4). • Silences the enemy’s accusations (Job 1:20–22). • Invites God’s peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6–7). Practical Ways to Remember to Bless the LORD in Trials 1. Speak Scripture Out Loud – Recite passages like Psalm 34:1, Habakkuk 3:17–18, and 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18. – Speaking truth counters anxious thoughts (Psalm 119:49–50). 2. Catalog God’s Past Faithfulness – Keep a written list of answered prayers and mercies (Psalm 77:11–12). – Review it when discouragement rises. 3. Sing Hymns and Psalms – Music impresses truth on the heart (Colossians 3:16). – Even whispered singing shifts the atmosphere of a room. 4. Adopt a Gratitude Rhythm – Note at least three daily evidences of God’s kindness (Psalm 103:2). – Let “thank You” precede petitions. 5. Meditate on His Attributes – Focus on one attribute per day—His sovereignty, mercy, faithfulness, etc. (Exodus 34:6). – Trials become platforms to see each attribute firsthand. 6. Serve Someone Else – Acts of mercy redirect attention from self to God’s love in action (Proverbs 11:25). – Blessing others is a tangible way to bless the LORD (Matthew 25:40). 7. Share Testimonies in Community – Meet with believers to recount God’s deeds (Hebrews 10:24–25). – Mutual encouragement sustains praise when individual strength feels thin. 8. Keep Eternity in View – Remember future glory outweighs present pain (Romans 8:18). – Hope fuels present praise (2 Corinthians 4:17). Encouraged to Persevere Blessing the LORD during trials is neither forced optimism nor denial of pain; it is the soul’s deliberate gaze at the Living God whose goodness remains constant. As we practice these habits, our hearts echo David’s: “Bless the LORD, O my soul; all that is within me, bless His holy name.” |
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