I don’t shout a whole lot. If I do, it is usually things like:
“SHUT THE DOOR!”
“LEAVE YOUR BROTHER ALONE!”
“WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU THINK THAT WAS A GOOD IDEA?!?!”
I didn’t say I was proud of the things I shouted. When I shout, it is usually because things are not going the way I think they should. The only time I can think of when I shout because I’m so happy about something is watching sports, especially if my kids are playing. Both boys started back playing baseball games last week and I honestly forgot how exciting it was to watch them play. When they do something good or a big moment happens, I shout for joy without even thinking about it.
So why then do I never consider shouting for joy when I think of what the Lord has done for me?
Psalm 118 is a hymn of thanksgiving for the deliverance from enemies. The enemies are described as “surrounding” and “swarming like bees.” A situation that does not seem favorable to the people of God. The author knows that victory came only because of the Lord. What is the proper response to the goodness of the Lord? Shouts of joy!
15 Shouts of joy and victory
resound in the tents of the righteous:
“The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things!“
I have no doubt in my mind that what the Lord has done for me (things like creating me, loving me, saving me from my sins, providing for my needs, my family… the list is long) is way more exciting and valuable than my kid sliding into home base, yet I do not regularly shout for joy because of what he has done. I should. I should be more vocal about how God has blessed me and rescued me!
Don’t hesitate to shout because the Lord has been good to you!
VC Devotionals 