Dealing with life’s challenges 10

 “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” Hebrews 13:15 KJV

No life’s challenge can withstand the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Praise becomes a sacrifice when it is offered in the midst of pain, pressure, uncertainty, and battle. It is easy to praise God when everything is working well, but when you praise Him while still waiting for answers, you show that your faith is stronger than your situation. Paul and Silas were beaten and locked in prison, yet at midnight they prayed and sang praises unto God. Suddenly, there was a great earthquake, the prison doors were opened, and everyone’s bands were loosed (Acts 16:25–26). Their praise invited divine intervention. In the same way, when Judah praised God in the face of battle, the Lord fought for them and gave them victory without struggle (2 Chronicles 20). Praise shifts the battle from your hands into God’s hands.

Thanksgiving is also an altar of deliverance. The Psalmist said, “Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me” (Psalm 50:14–15). Jonah also declared that he would sacrifice unto God with the voice of thanksgiving, even from the belly of the fish, and God brought him out (Jonah 2:8–10). Therefore, no matter what you are facing, do not complain. Open your mouth in praise. Build an altar of thanksgiving, and let God take over your battles.

Prophetic Word: I declare that your praise shall open prison doors and your thanksgiving shall bring divine intervention. Every battle before you shall turn into a testimony. As you praise God, He will fight for you, deliver you, and bring you into victory. In Jesus’ name.

Prayer: My Father and my God, give me the grace to praise You in every situation. Help me to offer thanksgiving even in the midst of challenges. As I lift my voice in praise, arise on my behalf, take over my battles, and turn my situation into a testimony. In Jesus’ name. Amen.