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Praise God!, August 28
I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, and the praises of the Lord,
according to all that the Lord hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness
toward the house of Israel.
Isaiah 63:7
.
When a sense of the loving-kindness of God is constantly refreshing the soul,
it will be revealed in the countenance by an expression of peace and joy. It will be
manifest in the words and works. And the generous, holy Spirit of Christ, working
upon the heart, will yield in the life a converting influence upon others....
Have we not reason to talk of God’s goodness and to tell of His power? When
friends are kind to us we esteem it a privilege to thank them for their kindness.
How much more should we count it a joy to return thanks to the Friend who
has given us every good and perfect gift. Then let us, in every church, cultivate
thanksgiving to God. Let us educate our lips to praise God in the family circle....
Let our gifts and offerings declare our gratitude for the favors we daily receive. In
everything we should show forth the joy of the Lord....
David declares, “I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my
supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon
him as long as I live” (
Psalm 116:1, 2
). God’s goodness in hearing and answering
prayer places us under heavy obligation to express our thanksgiving for the favors
bestowed upon us. We should praise God much more than we do. The blessings
received in answer to prayer should be promptly acknowledged....
We grieve the Spirit of Christ by our complaints and murmurings and repinings.
We should not dishonor God by the mournful relation of trials that appear grievous.
All trials that are received as educators will produce joy. The whole religious life
will be uplifting, elevating, ennobling, fragrant with good words and works.
Let the peace of God reign in your soul. Then you will have strength to bear
all suffering, and you will rejoice that you have grace to endure. Praise the Lord;
talk of His goodness; tell of His power. Sweeten the atmosphere that surrounds
your soul.... Praise with heart and soul and voice, Him who is the health of your
countenance, your Saviour, and your God.
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