This past week I read Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin. It’s a story about three Swedish sisters that immigrate to Chicago. I enjoyed the character development, especially the youngest sister, Sofia.
Sofia is tried and tested by circumstances but her faith in God gradually grows. The Bible verses that guide Sofia’s faith are woven into the text. The story holds a message of hope. In troubled times, when we don’t see an answer to problems, we can to turn to God in faith and with praise.
One of the verses that Sofia returned to a couple times is Psalm 66:1
Shout for joy to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise!
The Psalms are a wonderful resource that demonstrates both lament and praise. There are times when I have doubts, when my faith is faltering. I don’t think of praising God. At that time I should turn to the Psalms for inspiration and words of praise to God.
What helps you offer praise to God?
I am joining the Five Minute Friday writing community. The prompt for today is: PRAISE Also linking with Booknificent Thursday and Literary Musing Monday.
I too enjoy Lynn Austin’s writing! She is such a diverse and gifted author. As for what helps me offer praise to God, I’d say community. I find when it’s hard to praise, I’ve gotten a little too focused on myself and when I join others and hear the wonders God has worked in their lives or even how they are trusting in the midst of their sorrows, I am nearly always moved to praise.
Thanks for sharing this at Booknificent Thursday on Mommynificent.com!
Tina
I love Lynn Austin’s writing. She always brings in the truths about God within her stories, and creates such real-life characters. And I agree with you that Psalms bring in praise to our own real-life stories! Thank you for this great review.
“The Psalms are a wonderful resource that demonstrates both lament and praise.” Indeed. I am reminded that my challenges are not unique to me and the same God who proved His faithfulness to David and His people, is the same faithful God today. Visiting from FMF.
Thanks for visiting, Esther. Have a blessed weekend.
Thank for you for sharing the beauty of Psalms as related to praise. It is so hard to praise sometimes in troubles, but God is so worthy of our praise. You shared beautiful words that really blessed me.
We are blessed to have the honest emotions, lament and alongside it, praise to God, in the Psalms. Peace and joy this weekend!
The Psalms are one of my fave books of the Bible!
Last year my husband and I read from The Songs of Jesus (Devotions based on the Psalms by Tim Keller). A great way to start the day. Thanks for visiting.