“I won’t be quiet
My God is alive
How could I keep it inside”

Megan Tibbits has a beautiful, angelic voice and as she plays her harp and sings these arresting lyrics, I can’t help but feel challenged.

Why do I keep quiet, when my God has given me so much? Why? I feel it in my heart, I know it in my head yet so often, I keep quiet.

In these dark and turbulent times, the world needs to hear words of hope. As Romans 15:13 tells us: ¹³ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (NIV).

 Words that will comfort when difficulties arise; when sickness and disease weigh us down. Psalm 9:9-10  ⁹ The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. ¹⁰ Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.” (NLT)

By all accounts, I’m thinking there isn’t a great deal of time left until the Lord returns, so shouldn’t this be the time to speak up about the kindness and goodness of God?  Psalm 69:16 ¹⁶ Answer me, Lord! You are kind and good. Pay attention to me! You are truly merciful.” (CEV)

The lyrics continue …

I’ll praise when I feel it
And praise when I don’t
I’ll praise ‘cause I know
You’re still in control
‘Cause my praise is a weapon
It’s more than a sound
My praise is the shout
That brings Jericho down …
Praise the Lord Oh my soul”

So the key is to praise no matter what. Praise when I’m in the valley; when I’m doubting; when I’m surrounded … Praise is the water that my enemies drown in.

Maybe today you need to hear this song. Maybe you need to CHOOSE to praise despite your feelings of despair or disappointment. It’s so easy when everything is going according to plan! My plan, that is! And maybe, each one of us needs to share this glorious hope that we have in Christ. The question I ask myself yet again is: “How could I keep it inside?”

Be blessed as you listen to this anointed version of “Praise”.

Lesley Mathews
22 January, 2025