I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.
Psalm 34:1-3
These opening verses from Psalm 34 are much more powerful when the context is considered. David penned these words of praise not from a place of comfort in the palace, but from the wilderness while on the run from Saul. David had sought refuge in enemy territory and barely escaped with his life only after pretending to be insane.
Though grateful to be alive, he is still in danger from Saul. Fear, uncertainty, and anxiety must certainly be emotions that attempt to bubble up in his heart and mind. And yet, David chooses to praise God in this time of trouble.
His opening words, I will, remind us that praise is sometimes an act of our will rather than an expression of our emotions.
He begins by choosing to praise God in verse 1. Note his praise is not quiet — but out loud (“on my lips”). Verse 2 confirms his desire for others to hear his praise to God. And, finally, in verse 3 he encourages others to join in.
Please click the arrow below to listen to this week’s complete teaching from this powerful Psalm — so timely for these challenging times we are living in.
