Two Choices: Pity or Praise

Yesterday was one of those days for me. Do you know what I mean? Have you ever had one? Nothing life changing or threatening happened. Things that happened were disappointing, surprising in a not so nice way. Our checking account took a hit. A big old grand slam. Things needed fixed, unexpected bills came in, and expected bills were higher.

There are two ways to react to days like this: pity or praise. It is easy to give in to the bad and wallow in pity. Praise is harder to do. Are you an easy way out or tackle the hard part kind of person? Which road will you take?

I could have a good old fashioned pity party. Like the song goes “It’s my party and I’ll cry if I want to……you would cry, too, if it happened to you.” It would have been easy to sit and cry. I could have been depressed without much effort. It is a natural reaction sometimes when a string of bad things hit. Another activity would be to add refreshments to my party, like ice cream or candy, and seek comfort. Those unfortunately provide fleeting and not lasting ease, like a bandaid.

The second option, praise, is the better one for me so I chose it. I know what you’re thinking. If I’m having such a horrible day, why should I praise God. Lots of reasons, my friend. Many of them. I praised Him first because He has this. This situation, this day, but most importantly, me. He has me. I praised Him because these are all material and monetary issues. No one is hurt, sick, or dead. No tragedy has happened. I am fine. I still have my husband, my parents, children, grandchildren, family, friends, pets, and home. Do you see what I mean? The things that matter most and make me happy are still here.

Once I started thanking and praising God because He is my Creator, Abba, it was difficult to stop. He is omnipotent and powerful. He can do all things. He loves me, cares for me, heals me, and provides. I saw birds outside and marveled at how creative He is to have made so many different ones. My mood improved, things got into perspective, and the bad news of the morning was like a bug that I swatted away. Sure, I will need to deal with it later but next time I won’t be surprised. I will be prepared. God has calmed me, given me time to think with a level head, and stands beside me. Praise is much more than a bandaid. It is a healing.

Next time you are having one of those days, choose praise over pity. Contact a prayer partner or me if you need help praying through it. Remember, God is powerful and has this, but more importantly, He has us.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10