The Cure for a Heavy Heart

by Charles F. Stanley

When life goes our way, praising God comes naturally. But when the dishwasher breaks, the children are sick, or the mechanic gives bad news, it's much harder to give thanks. God understands how emotions are built, because He made them. He also knows the cure for a heart weighed down by concerns and irritations: praise.

Some churches hold special services just for worship and thanksgiving. The usual format is set aside so the entire meeting can be spent in adoration of the Lord. Singing, prayer, and personal testimonies of God's goodness are often key ingredients of such gatherings.

But the idea of a praise service isn't new. In 1 Chronicles 14-16, we find an example from the days of King David: after months in the house of Obed-Edom, the Ark of the Covenant was about to be returned to Jerusalem. The king's heart rejoiced at the blessing his people would receive because of their obedience. At his directive, the priests offered burnt sacrifices to God. A loaf of bread and some meat were given to every man and woman in the land; spirits overflowed with joyful anticipation.

Then came the final and most important part of the worship preparation: "[The king] appointed some of the Levites as ministers before the ark of the LORD, even to celebrate and to thank and praise the LORD God of Israel" (1 Chron. 16:4). David set apart a time adore God and extol His name. And that's what we're called to do, even when life is difficult.

Benefits of Praise

Praise focuses attention on God. When we take a long and deliberate look at the the Lord’s character and His ways, our focus naturally shifts away from difficulties. Then we remember Christ’s death and the Father’s ability to care for us.

Praise increases faith. Telling God what we love about Him always involves reciting His past actions of might and power in our lives. Looking back at the times He sent special provision at just the right moment, we feel compelled to thank the Lord for His blessings. This process results in a heart that expands with joy and security in Him.

Praise gives a sense of identity. When we worship God, we declare that He is Lord and that we belong to Him. First Peter 2:9 identifies believers as members of “a people for God’s own possession, that [they] may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called [them] out of darkness into His marvelous light.” That is reason enough to praise Him forever.

Pure praise for our great and awesome God should never be diminished by our circumstances. Unfettered worship comes from the hearts of those who understand that our heavenly Father owes us nothing but has given us everything.

Because of His immeasurable love, God gave us the gift of life. We could not earn our physical existence—the Creator provided that blessing. Nor can we merit our salvation, which the Father bestows through His Son Jesus Christ. True praise rejoices in God’s goodness and focuses on His astounding attributes and character.

Do you delight in knowing God? Is your relationship with Him exciting and rewarding? Learn the secret of praising the Lord at all times—even when storms of adversity arise (Job 1:21). Worship the Almighty, and let the truth of who He is illuminate your path.

Adapted from “Enter His Gates” (1998) and “On Holy Ground” (1999).