Sing with Gratitude
“Sing to the Lord with grateful praises; make music to our God on the harp.” (Psalm 147:7)
First, let’s face it – in our lifetime, very few people carry around or own a harp. Our vision of the harp is a very large, multi-stringed instrument with rollers on at least one end to assist with moving it from place to place. In biblical times, the harp was what we now consider a lyre, much smaller, portable with 8 strings. Again, we don’t carry those around on a normal day.
However, we have each been gifted with the ability to lift our voices and make music. I admit, some voices are more desirable than others, but God hears our voices in a much different way. It’s all beautiful music to His ears when it is filled with praise, joy and gratitude.
And then, you will note that this particular scripture refers to “grateful praise,” not thanksgiving. Gratitude is mentioned more than double the number of times thanks or thanksgiving shows up in the scriptures. There is a difference in the two. Thanksgiving is more of an emotional response. We feel pleased or relieved and express our emotion driven thanks.
On the other hand gratitude is an attitude. Regardless of the circumstance, there remains an attitude of appreciation. It permeates our entire lives, even in our worst moments. In those times we must ask God to help us see what is good and what good will come. This attitude is found by faith and observing, intentionally responding through affirming the good things. We may acknowledge the role others played in the good and in seeing, really seeing, the influence and blessing of God. Our attitude and actions tell a story. Simple acts such as smiling, saying thank you, and mentioning our blessings are indeed songs of praise.
So today whether you are singing, humming or praising the One who holds you, remember that the attitude of gratitude touches every moment and every thought you have and share.
Sing, in every way, your praise to God for life, for love, for challenges and for your fellow travelers. Others just might hear your “experience and music” and find the strength to sing as well. Thanks be to God for this and every day.
Our prayer today
Our Father, give us a deeper understanding of your gifts and an attitude of continual praise. Amen.
This devotion was written by Lisa Blackwood and read by Edha Brown.
Grace for All is a daily devotional podcast produced by the members of the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. With these devotionals, we want to remind listeners on a daily basis of the love and grace that God extends to all human beings, no matter their location, status, or condition in life.
If you would like to respond to these devotionals in any way, we would enjoy hearing from you. Our email address is: podcasts@1stchurch.org.
First United Methodist Church is a lively, spirit-filled congregation whose goal is to spread the message of love and grace into our community and throughout the world. We are located on the web at https://1stchurch.org/.
