Getting Up to Praise

Good morning Ekklesia

As we journey through this life, it often feels like the world is conspiring to drain us of every ounce of energy and joy. The constant demands of work, the unending stream of bad news, the lure of distractions that promise fulfillment but leave us empty—these worldly things are designed to take life out of us. They can leave us feeling drained, overwhelmed, and even lazy. And if we’re not careful, this downward spiral can lead to something deeper: a sense of hopelessness, a weight of depression that is difficult to shake.

But I’m here to remind you today that God has given you a reason to get up and praise Him. Yes, life is full of challenges. Yes, there are burdens that seem too heavy to bear. But even in the midst of these trials, God’s goodness shines through. He has done wonderful things, and He is still doing wonderful things in your life, even if you can’t see it yet.

Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Notice the psalmist’s decision: "we will rejoice." It’s not based on feelings or circumstances, but on a choice to recognize the goodness of God in every moment. That’s why I rise this morning to give God praise—not because everything is perfect, but because He is perfect in all His ways. No matter what is going on in my life, He is still worthy of praise.

And let me tell you, no matter what’s going on in your life, you still have a reason to praise Him. Maybe you’re facing uncertainty, financial stress, or relational struggles. Maybe the weight of the world is pressing down on you, and you don’t know how much longer you can hold on. But hold on to this truth: God is still working in your favor. Even when it feels like everything is against you, God is for you.

So let this devotion be an encouragement to you. Let it remind you that you are not alone in this journey. The same God who raised Jesus from the dead is working resurrection power in your life. He is the lifter of your head, the restorer of your soul, and the one who gives you a reason to get up and praise. Choose today to lift your eyes above your circumstances and fix them on the One who never fails.

As the Ekklesia, the called-out ones, we are not meant to blend in with the world’s way of thinking or living. We are called to rise above, to praise Him in the storm, to glorify Him in our daily walk. And as we do, we find that our spirits are lifted, our strength is renewed, and our hope is restored. God is still on the throne, and He is still worthy of all our praise. So, get up, lift your voice, and praise Him, for He is good and His mercy endures forever!

LoveUmorethanUknow Pastor Stephän Kirby