Psalm 69:29-33

Psalm 69:29-33ESV

29 But I am afflicted and in pain;
    let your salvation, O God, set me on high!

30 I will praise the name of God with a song;
    I will magnify him with thanksgiving.
31 This will please the Lord more than an ox
    or a bull with horns and hoofs.
32 When the humble see it they will be glad;
    you who seek God, let your hearts revive.
33 For the Lord hears the needy
    and does not despise his own people who are prisoners.

Once again David is showing who he goes to when he is down, afflicted, in pain.  He once again goes straight to GOD with his request for uplifting, knowing that GOD will hear him.  And once again, he praises GOD, declaring who he is and what he is capable of.

It's very encouraging to me that our songs of praises and our true thanksgiving please the Lord more than a required animal sacrifice - He wants a relationship with us!

These praises and thanksgiving we raise to GOD not only effect our relationship with him, but also encourage other believers.  My positive praise and worship throughout my life can encourage fellow believers?!  That can be scary and awesome all at the same time.  It gives us opportunity and responsibility.

Sometimes it is so easy to think that what we are going through or have to deal with, would have no effect on someone else and their life.  How can my "xyz" be an encouragement or help to someone else?  Our stories, praises, GOD things, no matter how big or small, could be a huge encouragement and just what someone in our circle of influence need to hear to help them along!

GOD wants to have a relationship with each and every one of his children and he also wants his children to create healthy, encouraging relationships with each other!