We’ve been slowly walking through the Book of Psalms, and this week we’re looking at Psalm 34. The Psalms do such a great job of talking about the topics and emotions we most often deal with in life. There’s so much in this chapter, like always. This is wisdom we can soak in, use, and grab hold of daily. It’s been the most relatable book of the Bible to me over the years of my life.

What stood out to me in the passage is what it says about thanking and praising God. Psalm 34:1 says, “I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” Notice this praise is more than a feeling of thankfulness. It’s not just in the heart, but it comes from our mouths. It involves an intentional effort from our lips. So, it’s not just inside, but an outward expression. God wants us to verbalize our praise and thanksgiving. Do you see the difference?

If you want to be JOYFUL, be thankful. May we each take refuge in this promise that the Lord desires to hear from us…to especially hear praise and thanksgiving out loud.

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