Psalms Thirty, verses 1-12

A Song of Dedication for the Temple of the Lord

As followers of Jesus, WE are His Temple!

Lord, I applaud You. Yes, I clap my hands as I sing Your praise; for You have raised me up out of the depths of my darkness and despair. And You did not allow my enemies to rejoice in my depression. I called for help and You heard me, bringing Your healing to clear my darkness. Thank You, Lord, for not allowing me to fall headlong into that pit. For sparing me from the grave. Ever will I sing Your praises!

Hey, congregation believers, sing His praises. All you His faithful servants, praise His holy name. Yes, I know He gets angry sometimes, but it only lasts for a moment. But His favor, grace, and mercy last forever; beyond this lifetime ... throughout all eternity. I know there are times you may cry yourself to sleep at night. But when you wake in the morning, He will refresh you with HIs unspeakable joy and peace.

You know, when my bank accounts and pantries were full and I felt safe and secure, I said, 'I've got the world by the tail ... I've got it made! For You had blessed me with Your favor, placing me upon Your solid Rock. Then You seemed to turn away just for a moment, hiding Your face from me. My whole world collapsed, and my spirit was in ruins.

I cried out to You in my despair. I longed to be shown Your mercy once more, so I tearfully yelled, 'how can Your Kingdom advance if I am dead and buried? When I can no longer sing Your songs of praise? Will my grave praise Your name? Will it tell others of Your faithfulness ... Your truth? Hear me once more, my God, and pour out Your mercy and forgiveness on me.

See, You've done it again: You turned my cries of anguish into joyous dancing. You have exchanged my sackcloth and ashes for Your pure joy. How can I be silent, now? Therefore I will never stop singing Your praises. Evermore will I lift my voice to give You honor, glory, and praise!

Amen!