The consolations of God - Thirteenth in a series

When Leah gave birth to her fourth son, she was thankful and named him Praised, or Judah. (Gen 29:35) Thus, the branch that grew from Jesse, The Lord, (Isa 11:1), was prophesied in his name as a Word of Praise. Israel's consolation (Luk 2:25) is the perfect Word.

Perhaps when we feel in need of being consoled, praising God does not occur to us. We want him to stoop to our need as he characteristically does. (Phil 2:6-8) Yet, praise is a great consolation: It fills us with truth, we are uplifted and our hearts are settled. So, at those times when we feel a deep need for God's succoring, seeking it through praise is wise.

First, that is the way of obedience. Paul reminds us to think on what is praiseworthy. (Phil 4:8) In Hebrews, we are encouraged to praise continually. (Heb 13:15)

Next, we know that disappointments and trials are temporary: Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God. (Ps 43:5) Let's not "take up housekeeping" in the valley.

Also, it is a beautiful thing to do: Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: [for] praise is comely for the upright. (Ps 33:1) Comely means beautiful.

And, it's good and pleasant to praise God. We then feel better. (Ps 135:3)

God comes to our rescue as we praise: Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth [his] conversation [aright] will I shew the salvation of God. (Ps 50:23)

We know we can trust that his works are wonderful (Ps 107:8, 15, 21, 31) and all things work together for good for those who love the Lord. (Rom 8:28)

If he answers before we call (Isa 65:24), why should we not praise before we groan?

Why let rocks take our place? "I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out." (Luke 19:37-40)

Jesus was sent… to give us the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness so that we may be known as God's own, to glorify him. (Isa 61:1-3)

Praise the Lord!