Daily
Devotional

The weekend retreat surpassed my expectations. The cottage I stayed in was only a few blocks from a shore scattered with seashells and other beachcomber’s treasures. The backyard was surrounded by firs and flowers of every color. Deer, small rabbits, and squirrels feasted right outside the floor-to-ceiling glass windows. I was delighted by the beauty and tranquility around me, and praised the Lord for such a lovely getaway in His magnificent creation. It was hard to leave.

Flying home on the plane a few days later, my heart again sang the praises of God as I enjoyed a good book and was thankful for perfect flying weather. I felt surrounded by God’s love. However, when I walked off the plane in Portland, the responsibilities of life hit me like a sudden gust of wind! What would I make for dinner, and how would I get all the clothes washed? Would I have time to write letters to my students’ parents about our last school-year activity? Would I be able to help plan the Sunday school schedule and get the house cleaned up, too?  

As pressure was building, the peace of the weekend began to disappear. Then, I thought of the wonderful weekend I had just had, and my heart overflowed with praise once again. I realized the clothes could be washing while I typed the parents’ letter. Pre-made lasagna could be cooking while I wrote up ideas for Sunday school. As I continued to think on God’s goodness to me, my heart became lighter and my praise became greater. Responsibilities seemed to lose their weight and peace returned to my soul.

In our world today, problems and responsibilities seem to come up out of nowhere. Days are packed with work and things that “must be done.” We can feel weighed down and full of unrest. But have we taken time to praise the Lord for what He has done for us? It makes such a difference! When we have the Lord’s praises on our lips, we feel peace and wondrous joy in the sunshine and in the night. Let’s praise the Lord at all times and in all situations. It is the key to a stress-free day and a restful night.