The deafening sound of sanding machines filled my Montana log home. For three straight weeks, the painting crew worked tirelessly, and yet the constant hum seemed to reverberate through my very bones.
The chaos was relentless — and so was the noise.
But even as I endured this mental overload, my mind wandered back to a much more difficult night — September 10, 2021.
That evening, I listened to the rhythmic guitar sounds of MercyMe, their lyrics reminding me that even when my whole world falls apart, I still must praise.
As the clock in my ICU room struck midnight, I found myself staring straight into grief. In the quiet darkness, I realized that despite the pain, I still had a reason to praise.
My number one reason? God had graciously given me one more day of life and the ability to have memories to soothe by aching heart.
So I spent those early morning hours texting each of our seven grandchildren. I told them why their Papa thought they were special — and that now, the memories we had made together would have to be enough to comfort our hurting hearts.
Suddenly, a gentle tap on my shoulder pulled me back to the present.
Sunny, my faithful kitty, had noticed my tears and was there to offer comfort. His quiet presence was a reminder that I had yet another reason to praise.
The Bible tells us that God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). When we lift our hearts in praise, even through pain, we are connecting with Him.
Psalm 150:6 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” It is so easy to be distracted by the noise — whether it’s the roar of machines or the weight of grief. Yet
Colossians 3:16 reminds us to let the message of Christ dwell richly within us, to teach and encourage one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, letting gratitude glow within our hearts.
That’s what I want — that glow of gratitude. Even when it’s tough. Even when it’s noisy. Even when my heart is heavy.
So today, let’s praise Him — for providing for our daily needs, for freeing us from sin, for offering us new life, and for meeting us with comfort in the very middle of our chaos.
Closing Prayer Lord, thank You that even in the noise, You are near. Help me keep my focus on You, not on the distractions or the pain. Teach my heart to praise You in every season, until gratitude becomes my glow. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.