A Song of Praise

Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals … You have made them into a kingdom and priests to our God, and they will reign upon the earth.—Revelation 5:9–10 NASB

The news was devastating. The daughter of composer-conductor Gustav Mahler contracted scarlet fever and died. Later that year, Mahler himself was diagnosed with a fatal heart condition. Grappling with grief and uncertainty, he turned to music, arranging a series of Chinese poems in a work known as The Song of the Earth.

These poems describe how he approached these challenges. One song celebrated escape through alcohol. Another dealt with a spirit of resignation. In many ways, these are common attitudes. Some people face challenges through short-term escapes. Some give up and yield to the spirit of hopelessness.

How does God want us to respond? The Bible reminds us that we can trust Him and commit our problems to Him. We also are reminded that He gives us eternal hope. We have been redeemed! We can sing about Jesus and His finished work.

In the account from the Bible, in Heaven we see songs sung by angels and people from every era. These are songs of praise and worship as they declare that Jesus is worthy to receive power and riches, wisdom and might, honor, glory, and blessing. They sing because He sits on the throne and will reign forever.

Don’t be discouraged by your challenges or feelings of hopelessness. Rather, commit each situation to God. Confess His promises. Thank Him for all He has done for you! Sing His praises! Trust Him.

Reflection Question: How do you respond to life’s challenges and setbacks?