There are few things harder than praising God when our hearts are overwhelmed by pain, trials, fear, and uncertainty. Its often the last thing we want to do. Everything within us wants to focus on the storm. Our minds replay the problems, our hearts carry the weight, and anxiety magnifies every obstacle before us.

Yet Scripture calls us to offer something precious in those moments—a sacrifice of praise.

A sacrifice costs us something. When we choose to set our eyes on God instead of our troubles, even for a moment, we are offering Him an act of faith. We are declaring that He is greater than our fears, stronger than our circumstances, and more worthy of our attention than the storm surrounding us.

I wrote the following poem during a season when my own heart was overwhelmed. As I struggled beneath the weight of circumstances beyond my control, I was reminded of the psalmist’s words that God can lead us to “the rock that is higher than I.” He lifts our eyes above the confusion, pain, anxiety, and troubles that threaten to consume us.

Something beautiful happens when we praise Him in the middle of the storm. We don’t always walk away with our circumstances changed, but we do walk away changed. Praise lifts our gaze heavenward. It strengthens our faith, lightens our burden, and reminds us that nothing is impossible with God. The same God who holds the universe in His hands is holding us as well.

“With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks and praise Your name, O Lord, for it is good.” — Psalm 54:6 AMP

“Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.” — Psalm 50:14 NIV

With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks and praise Your name, O Lord, for it is good. Psalm 54:6 Amp

Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High. Psalm 50:14 NIV