How To Praise God When You Don't Feel Like It

By: Velma Thomas

Life can be incredibly challenging. The weight of the world can feel overwhelming at times. When difficult situations arise, it’s easy to ask, “Why me? “What have I done to deserve this?” Or “When something good will happen on my behalf “? Many individuals find themselves trapped in a cycle of despair, questioning their faith and the goodness of God. If you feel this way, remember: you’re not alone.

People around the world are seeking peace and answers, often feeling they have no reason to praise God during their struggles. You might think, “What good has He done for me?” It can seem like everything you once cherished has been taken away, leaving you in despair.

A candle representing hope in dark times

Understanding the Struggle

When life throws curveballs, be it health issues, job loss, death of a loved one, or other family crises, it’s natural to feel abandoned. Consider the story of Job, for example. He faced unimaginable loss, losing his children, wealth, and health. His wife even urged him to curse God and die. Yet Job responded with remarkable wisdom, asking, “Should we accept good from God and not trouble?”

Finding Reasons to Praise

So, how can you find reasons to praise God when you feel you have none? Start by reflecting on the small blessings in your life. Maybe it’s a visit from a friend, a cool refreshing drink, or a peaceful moment at the park. These instances remind us of God’s presence and love.

Consider keeping a gratitude journal. Aim to write down three things each day that you are thankful for, no matter how small. This practice helps you shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right, allowing you to see God’s influence in your life.

A sunrise symbolizing new beginnings

The Power of Worship

Worship can be a powerful tool for reconnecting with God, even when you don’t feel like it. Singing hymns, listening to uplifting music, getting together with church members for Bible trivia, or reading scripture can help uplift your spirit. Engaging in worship allows you to express your feelings of joy, sorrow, or confusion.

Embracing the Journey

Praising God, especially when you don’t feel like it, is difficult, but it offers a chance to grow. It’s an opportunity to deepen your faith and discover strength during trials. By focusing on gratitude, engaging in worship, and reflecting on stories like Job's, you can begin to see the light, even in dark times.

Life can be tough, but God’s love remains unwavering. Embrace the journey, and remember in time passed how God brought you out when you didn’t know what to do, and you couldn’t see any way out. Remember how you praised Him before in the lesser struggles in your life. He is still the same God now. Remember, even in your worst struggles, you can find reasons to praise the Lord.

Encouraging Passage of Praise

"I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him."

Psalm 34:1-8

Prayer

My prayer for you is for God to open your eyes and touch your heart, and see you have many wonderful things to praise Him for, even when you don’t feel like it.

Father God, in the name of Jesus Christ, open the eyes and touch the heart of your child and show them the many wonderful things surrounding them to be thankful for. Help them to see you are worthy of all the praise. In Jesus name, Amen.

A garden symbolizing hope and renewal