Good Monday morning, friends! Today is a great day to give thanks for all that you’ve been through. I know we don’t always want to thank him for the tough times — the hills, the valleys, and the bumps in our journey, but it’s necessary. Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to give thanks in all things.
An obvious way to give thanks is through our daily prayers — when we awaken, at meal time, and when we prepare to sleep. My favorite way to thank him, however, is through praise and worship.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. ~ Psalm 150:6
I don’t claim to have much rhythm, but I can certainly clap my hands and sing praises to the Lord, and I do it throughout the day. On some of my toughest days, I find myself singing and clapping more often because pain and suffering are reminders that I am still alive, so there’s more work to be done. As a bonus, I imagine the enemy fleeing — completely befuddled and shaking his head, wondering how I could still give God praise after all I’ve been through. Today I challenge you to start clapping in the valley. Sing loudly as you trudge uphill, and jump for joy as you maneuver around those bumps. The enemy’s fiery darts are no match for this type of weaponry.
What are some of the hills, valleys, and bumps you’ve experienced this month? Have you praised God in the midst of it all? Let’s chat about it. Scroll down and join me in the comments.
Before you leave, turn up the volume and listen to my Music Monday selection from Witness entitled Clap Your Hands.
May blessings abound! <3
Through sadness and happiness, and in good times and bad times I’m always praising God.
Last week the devil decided to shift my focus but I didn’t let him have the pleasure of doing so because I know that the God that I serve, the God that I love, the God that can move mountains and the God who said he will never leave us nor forsake is my rock and my fortress. So when I see the devil lurking around i just smile because he can’t get me down.
Michelle you make me feel like preaching, lol
This post is really refreshing, thank you and have a blessed Monday.
Go ahead and preach, Dehan! God is so awesome. He is worthy to be praised. He allows us to see the enemy lurking and equips us to defend ourselves against anything he throws our way. Thanks for stopping by, my friend. <3
Praising and worship is praying in two different ways. I love it because it gets me into the zone so quick 🙂
Indeed! We need to stay in that zone, Jacqueline! <3
Thanks for sharing this Monday Morning Motivation. I think I will be clapping my hands all day.
Snap those fingers too, Tia…lol. All praise is acceptable. Make a joyful noise all week! <3
Nothing gets me more fired up than music. Mostly Nigerian music. Very uplifting and inspirational. Happy Monday!
Indeed, KemKem! I love all music, but Gospel gets me going, and I’m a big fan of R&B.
I love gospel music. Songs have a way of giving me exactly what I need in that moment. They break me down and build me up. They give me encouragement and reassurance.
Indeed, Sis! As a child, I didn’t realize that these songs were inspired by scripture.As an adult, I find myself bookmarking/highlighting my favorite verses that I hear in songs. Have a great week, Mimi!
Beautiful music! And you’ve got me smiling on this Monday morning! Bless you!
Thanks, sweet friend. Have a wonderful week! <3
Beautiful! I could really use this, been feeling a bit alone and slightly depressed lately since living abroad and away from fam and friends. I write in my daily gratitude journal what I’m grateful for but have been slipping on that lately. I need to get back on it, thanks for the motivation!
I’ll keep you lifted in prayer, Nicole. You may be far from home, but you are never alone. I pray that God keeps you in his tender care as you travel the world. <3
I have been walking through a really tough season (after the unexpected passing of my Mom), but I know without a doubt that it is God keeping me. I’m involved in small groups, listen to my gospel/worship music, and I stay connected with life-giving people who bring love, light, and positivity. It’s so necessary as I walk through this LIFE journey.
I’m very sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. It is my prayer that God continues to comfort you as you heal. He is your source and your strength. Lean on him. You’re a wise, young woman. Surround yourself with good people, and that will help the healing process. Hugs to you! <3
I love praises and worships and thank you for the motivational morning post!
http://www.distinguisheddiva.com/2016/10/happy-non-racistnon-offensive-and-non.html
You’re welcome, Adeola! Thanks for stopping by. 😀
Great Monday motivation! Thank you for sharing this sis (even on Tuesday it is still motivating) 🙂
I’m so glad it spoke to you, Sis. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
Thank you for this awesome post! We need to be remind who’s we are.
Amen, Tanya!
I heard one of my favorite songs driving to work. It’s ‘Next to Me’ by Emeli Sande and it has such a gospel feel to it and each time I hear it, I know that GOD is by my side…right next to me! Knowing that I can get thru anything.
Amen! I truly believe that God will find you wherever you are — even in the car listening to whatever is on the radio. He always makes his presence known. P.S. I’ll have to check out that song.
Music definitely stirs the spirit. And you’re right, nothing should stop you from getting your praise on!
Amen, Latoya! Thanks for stopping by!
I certainly praise the Lord everyday!! I love Him for the great things He has done in my life!
Amen! He’s a good, good father!
I know one day my coworkers will catch me, because I’m at the point where I literally talk to Jesus throughout the day. Especially when I hit a bump in the road, I refer to the devotional placed on my desk monthly and carry out. I’m definitely about the praise & worship though! 😉
That’s good to know CJ! God is the source of our strength, and the sooner we learn that, the better. Keep on praising him, Sis. <3
God is just so amazing how he always is on time and answering prayers in a timely manner. I rather not disclose how he helped me this month but lets just say he is just always on TIME. I have been learning to not panic and just continue to have full faith that he heard my request and he is going to answer it. I love the work of God.
Thanking God for answered prayers is one way to deepen our relationship with him. His timing is perfect. Thanks for stopping by, Kiwi. <3