SCRIPTURE: Psalm 81
“Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob!” (Psalm 81:1)
The part that stands out for me is the opening line… sing for joy!
The rest of the psalm explains why we can sing for joy, and how instead we neglect God and His grace.
Sing for joy, shout aloud (so people can hear), there is every reason to celebrate.
I have recently been reminded of how God has removed the burden from my shoulders.
Why don’t I appreciate it, why isn’t joy bubbling up inside of me?
“Open wide your mouth and I will fill it.” (Psalm 81:10)
Is it possible that one reason my heart is empty because my mouth is closed?
What if I would “shout aloud” more about God, and all that He has done for me?
What if praise (singing for joy) not only follows God’s grace, but fills me with it?
I hear God telling me that praising Him actually helps fill the empty soul.
It focuses my attention on God and all His blessings.
It can also help me to resist temptation, distraction and discouragement.
“Open wide your mouth (with praise) and I will fill it (with reasons to praise).” (Psalm 81:10)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, like ancient Israel, I have not listened, I have not followed, I have not obeyed. Your point here is not guilt, but frustration for all that I am missing out on. Fill my heart with You, and my mouth with praise, that I may experience the fullness of blessing You have in mind for me.