Praise

“The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.” Luke 2:20 NASB

Their minds must have been dominated with things that seemed important. The latest gossip. The challenges of their work. Worries about health and finances. Family and relationships. Personality conflicts. Questions about their past and future.

We wonder what these men thought about God. What, in fact, did they really believe? Did they ever reflect on what they had been taught? Did they believe His promises? Had He really performed miracles for His people in the past? Had it all just been stories?

But that night everything changed. Their worldview was shaken. All their concerns and preoccupations suddenly seemed so irrelevant.

In fact, the things of this earth were lost as their hearts were overwhelmed with a glimpse of spiritual realities. While they had been focused on temporary earthly issues, God had been on His throne, and actually was with them in every moment. He really knew each of them by name and had glorious plans for each life. He really cared for them, and for all His people. And His Word really was true and He kept all His promises.

These were life-changing revelations. And, finally, all they could do was praise God!

In our time, how easily we find ourselves consumed by our own maze of issues. Yet God calls each of us to escape these preoccupations. To realize that Jesus really did come into this world, and was born of a virgin. That the Gospel is true! That He really is with us and has a plan for our future! That His promises are true!

In your life, remember that God really is with you. He really loves you. He really sent Jesus into this world, for you! Don’t allow temporary things to shape your life. Focus on Jesus! And let your life be filled with praise.

Praise: Father, help me to have a greater sense of Your presence. Speak to me. Reveal more of Your truth to me. Change me! I worship and praise You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.