Thoughts for the Day

Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright in the congregation.
Great are the works of the Lord,
studied by all who delight in them.
Full of honour and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures for ever.

He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
the Lord is gracious and merciful.

(Church in Wales Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

It feels difficult for many people to praise God at the moment. Questions like "Why does God allow a pandemic to happen", and "Why did God allow my Mum to die?" are constantly being asked. We have few sensible answers, although we humans cannot escape some of the blame.

As the economic situation gets worse and more people lose their jobs and businesses, it's hard not to become depressed. As the stress levels grow, and the fear and desperation increases, it is hard not to doubt that God loves us.

But faith is about stepping out in confidence, even when we may be uncertain. It's like driving round the bend and finding a huge sheet of water on the road, but moving slowly forward because you know the road underneath is flat. If our previous experience of God has been good, then at times of doubt we must trust that experience and rely on the conviction of others.

Oh and send a prayer to God asking Him to strengthen our belief, before praising Him for His goodness.

Heavenly Father,
when we struggle with our faith,
keep us strong;
and when we try to go it alone,
keeps us close to You.
Help us to remember that
You love us,
and to continue thanking You
for all Your goodness.
Amen.