His Praise Will Be On My Lips
As I awoke today, almost nine weeks post surgery, every movement brought pain. I groaned. What happened? The past week had been filled with more energy and movement, so what was going on with my body? Fatigue crept into my bones and it was only the breakfast hour. Expectations each morning have been that I will be better each day, always moving forward. The weariness and pain today is quite unexpected.
I headed toward the bathroom thinking a shower might revive me. Staring in the mirror, I looked at the scars and swelling that still remains. I felt the twinges of sorrow and depression creeping toward me. As the warm water washed over my body, wondering if tears would come, these words flowed over my soul, “Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips; Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips.” Again, I waited for my emotions to rise up and the words echoed louder, “Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips; Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips.”
I remembered having the thought yesterday, that no matter how I “feel” each day, there is a reason to rejoice. Cancer has not taken my life. In spite of the discomfort and swelling and numbness, I continue to have life in this body and the opportunity to share love and kindness with others. I can continue to create memories with those who love me. I can encourage others traveling through the difficulties on this journey. I have breath and life.
Even on a “bad” day, God will turn it around when His praise is on my lips. This is a conscious act of our will in spite of how we feel emotionally or physically. We cannot escape the fact that along life’s journey difficulties will be encountered. We have the option to choose praise and see what happens. I know it’s much better than the alternative.
"Ever Be" by Kalley Heiligenthal
"Your love is devoted like a ring of solid gold
Like a vow that is tested like a covenant of old
Your love is enduring through the winter rain
And beyond the horizon with mercy for today
“Faithful You have been and faithful you will be
You pledge yourself to me and it’s why I sing
Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips
Your praise will ever be on my lips, ever be on my lips”
