Emboldened by Faith: The Strength Found in Praise and Prayer

In a world filled with distractions, Psalm 138 encourages us to praise God wholeheartedly and to trust in His answers to our prayers. By doing so, we are emboldened in our faith and live a life of gratitude, reflecting God's goodness to those around us.

Sarah Mitchell

26/11/2024 - one month ago

Emboldened by Faith: The Strength Found in Praise and Prayer — Explore the power of praise and prayer in Psalm 138, and discover how gratitude and faith in God's answers can embolden and transform your life.

The Power of Praise

Psalm 138 begins with a powerful declaration of praise: "I will praise You, Lord, with all my heart; before the ‘gods’ I will sing Your praise." The psalmist, King David, sets an example for us in expressing deep gratitude and worship. Praise is not just a response to good times; it is an intentional act of acknowledging God's sovereignty over all aspects of life. When we praise God with all our heart, we are offering a sincere and wholehearted devotion that rises above any distractions or false idols.

In this world, we face numerous challenges and distractions that can easily divert our attention from God. The reference to ‘gods’ in this verse may refer to other deities or the various idols that people may worship, such as wealth, power, or fame. By choosing to praise God before these ‘gods,’ we make a conscious decision to put Him first. This act of prioritizing God in our lives can greatly influence our spiritual growth and deepen our relationship with Him.

Praising God in the presence of other ‘gods’ is a bold statement of faith and trust in His power. It signifies a rejection of worldly values and an affirmation of God’s ultimate authority. When we praise, we remind ourselves of God’s goodness and faithfulness, which strengthens our resolve to live according to His will. Regular praise keeps our hearts aligned with God’s purpose, enabling us to experience His peace and joy even in challenging circumstances.

Read Also: Shout for Joy: A Call to Praise and Witness God's Deeds

Calling and Answering

The second part of Psalm 138 highlights a personal interaction with God: "When I called, You answered me; You greatly emboldened me." This verse captures the essence of a dynamic relationship with God, where communication is key. Calling out to God in times of need is an act of faith, acknowledging that He is capable and willing to help us. It reflects a deep trust in God's ability to respond to our prayers.

When we call on God, we open a channel for divine intervention in our lives. God’s response may not always be immediate or obvious, but His promise to hear our cries gives us hope and courage. The act of calling itself is empowering, as it shifts our focus from our problems to God’s power and presence. This shift in perspective often provides us with the strength and encouragement we need to face our challenges head-on.

God’s answers to our prayers can come in various forms. Sometimes, He provides clarity and direction; other times, He grants peace and understanding. Regardless of how He responds, we can be assured that God is actively working for our good. Recognizing His answers in our lives fosters gratitude and reinforces our faith, encouraging us to continue trusting Him in all situations. This growing confidence in God's responsiveness shapes our spiritual journey and emboldens us to live with purpose and conviction.

Read Also: Finding Strength in God: A Reflection on Psalm 54

Emboldened by Faith

The concept of being 'emboldened' is central to understanding the impact of God's responses to our prayers. To be emboldened means to be filled with confidence and courage. When God answers our calls, He doesn't just provide solutions; He infuses us with the strength to face life's challenges with renewed vigor. This empowerment is a testament to the transformative power of faith in action.

Faith emboldens us to step out of our comfort zones and pursue God's calling for our lives. It helps us overcome fears and doubts that may hold us back. When we see evidence of God's hand in our circumstances, our faith is strengthened, allowing us to approach future challenges with a sense of assurance and trust. This cycle of calling, answering, and emboldening creates a resilient faith that can withstand the storms of life.

Being emboldened by faith also means being willing to share our testimonies with others. When we experience God's faithfulness, it is natural to want to tell others about it. Sharing our stories of answered prayers can inspire and encourage those around us, creating a ripple effect of faith and hope. As we uplift others, we fulfill God's purpose for our lives and draw closer to Him, experiencing the abundant life He promises.

Read Also: Embracing God's Nearness Through Praise and Trust

Living a Life of Gratitude

A life of gratitude begins with acknowledging God's ongoing work in our lives. By recognizing His answers to our prayers and the courage He instills in us, we cultivate a heart of thankfulness. Gratitude shifts our perspective from what we lack to what we have, allowing us to appreciate the blessings that surround us. This mindset fosters contentment and joy, even amidst trials.

Living gratefully involves more than just words of thanks; it is an attitude that permeates every aspect of our lives. It influences how we interact with others, how we handle adversity, and how we view our circumstances. When we maintain a grateful heart, we become more resilient and better equipped to face life's ups and downs with grace and poise.

As we practice gratitude, we become more attuned to God's presence and guidance. This heightened awareness leads to a deeper relationship with Him, where we are constantly reminded of His love and provision. By living a life of gratitude, we not only honor God but also inspire those around us to seek Him and experience His goodness for themselves. In doing so, we fulfill our calling to be a light in the world, reflecting the hope and truth found in Christ.