Counsels on Wellness

Counsel #8 — Action Duo of trust and praise

Picture: Counsel #8 — Action Duo of trust and praise CWe 10.1

Trust in God and praise to God aren’t two separate actions, but rather two sides of the same coin, fueling and informing each other. Our trust in God is the reason for our joyful praise. It’s not just blind optimism; it’s a confident reliance on God’s character and promises, born out of experience. When we truly believe God is our strength and shield, when we’ve experienced His faithfulness, praise to Him naturally overflows. It’s a response to the help received, a recognition of the Source of that help. CWe 10.2

Focusing on Jesus instead of our troubles and acknowledging His authority and power enables us to resist discouragement and instead choose praise. Even when circumstances are difficult, our trust in Jesus as "the Author and Finisher of our faith" provides the greatest motivation for our praise. We praise not because everything is perfect, but because we trust that God is working all things for our good.^[8] CWe 10.3

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I will praise Him.” Psalms 28:7 NKJV CWe 10.4

“We are not to allow one discouraging word to pass our lips. But we can praise the Lord that we can believe and trust in Jesus. He is the Light, and in Him is no darkness at all.” Ellen White in The Upward Look, p. 289 CWe 10.5

Reflect: Ellen White emphasizes avoiding discouraging words. How do your words impact your own heart and your ability to trust and praise God? What changes could you make in your speech? CWe 10.6