Shout With Joy

Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth; burst into songs and make music.
Psalm 98:4 (NLT)

Dear Ones: Shout with Joy! This psalm is only 9 verses but three times it calls for the people to shout joyfully to the Lord. Praise on the lips of His people (Christians) is a mighty weapon against the enemy. The root of the Hebrew word, rua (roo-ah), means to raise a shout; give a blast with clarion or horn. We can relate to this type of activity to the horn blowing and shouts of joy that we do at a sporting event. We cheerfully and enthusiastically root for our team. Yes, even when our sports team is lagging behind, we shout encouragement to urge on the players.

In the midst of great distress, David encouraged himself in the Lord as revealed in Psalm 42:5. “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance.” When we go the Lord like David did, our joy can flow even in dire circumstances because of His goodness and mercy toward us. In times of great trouble, we can be joyful because we are in blood covenant with God through Christ. He has bound Himself by the blood and His immutable Word to help those who call Jesus Lord of their lives. Romans 8:31 tells us, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

May you shout with joy today as you remember your blood covenant with God. He is a present help in times of trouble and need. Your sincere joyful shout drives the darkness away. The Light of His presence comes. He reminds you that you are an overcomer because He overcame. I bless you in Jesus’ name.