There is always a reason to celebrate, because GOD is always doing something amazing! If you don’t think so, or if you’re not sure that’s entirely true, then begin asking Holy Spirit to show you how GOD is working. He will always point us in the direction of God’s love, grace and mercy. Even chastisement is an expression of His love. Otherwise, He could just let us continue on our way and reap the full consequences of our sin. As a loving Father, He warns us ahead of time to look out for the snares and obstacles that would cause us to fall. Even little things are worth celebrating, like having range of motion of our arms and legs, especially if we’ve been challenged there. Every breath is a celebration; just ask someone who struggles with asthma. The Bible is full of occasions where God commanded the children of Israel to celebrate. How can we remember to celebrate every day, and in any and every season of our lives? What is the last thing GOD did for you that you weren’t expecting? What was the last thing you thought would bring chastisement, but instead brought you God’s goodness, grace and a blessing?
The following acrostic can help to keep us focused on how to celebrate:
C.all to remembrance the promises of the LORD, and His past mercies & grace-“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (II Cor 1:10 NKJV)
“It is because of the Lord’s mercy and loving-kindness that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great and abundant is Your stability and faithfulness.” (Lam 3:22-23 AMPC)
E.xamine our present state & E.xalt the Name of the LORD-“Let us test and examine our ways, and let us return to the LORD! Let us lift up our hearts and our hands [and then with them mount up in prayer] to God in heaven:” (Lam 3:40-41 AMPC)
“I will extol You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my foes rejoice over me.” (Ps 30:1 NKJV)
L.evel up in our thinking! L.et our mouths declare the truth of GOD’s word-“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you, says the LORD, plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster to give you a future and a hope.” (Jer 29:11 AMP)
“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” (Rom 8:28 AMP)
E.ncourage ourselves in the Lord-“Why am I so overwrought? Why am I so disturbed? Why can’t I just hope in God? Despite all my emotions, I will believe and praise the One who saves me and is my life.” (Ps 42:5 VOICE)
“God is our shelter and our strength. When troubles seem near, God is nearer, and He’s ready to help. So why run and hide?” (Ps 46:1 VOICE)
B.rag on & B.oast in the goodness of the Lord-“The Lord himself is the one who has done this, and it’s so amazing, so marvelous to see!” (Ps 118:23 TPT)
“O my soul, bless GOD. From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name! O my soul, bless GOD, don’t forget a single blessing! (Ps 103:1-2 MSG)
R.ejoice evermore-“Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let joy overflow, for you are united with the Anointed One!” (Phil 4:4 TPT)
“So lift your hand and thank God for his marvelous kindness and for all his miracles of mercy for those he loves.” (Ps 107:8 TPT)
A.lign ourselves with His will & His Word-“Shout in celebration of praise to the Lord! Everyone who loves the Lord and delights in him will cherish his words and be blessed beyond expectation.” (Ps 112:1 TPT)
“How blessed and favored by God are those whose way is blameless [those with personal integrity, the upright, the guileless], Who walk in the law [and who are guided by the precepts and revealed will] of the LORD. (Ps 119:1 AMP)
T.rust the process-”Trust in and rely confidently on the LORD with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD [with reverent awe and obedience] and turn [entirely] away from evil. It will be health to your body [your marrow, your nerves, your sinews, your muscles—all your inner parts] And refreshment (physical well-being) to your bones.” (Prov 3:5-8 AMP)
“For God alone my soul waits in silence and quietly submits to Him, For my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; My fortress and my defense, I will not be shaken or discouraged. On God my salvation and my glory rest; He is my rock of [unyielding] strength, my refuge is in God. Trust [confidently] in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him. God is a refuge for us. Selah.” (Ps 62:5-8 AMP)
E.levation time is here-LET’S CELEBRATE AND BE JOYFUL! “For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge! He puts down one, and exalts another.” (Ps 75:6-7 NKJV)
“Sing and celebrate! Sing some more, celebrate some more! Sing your highest song of praise to our King!” (Ps 47:6 TPT)
YES, we have many reasons to celebrate! Let’s continue to “Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness! Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!” (Psalm 150:2-6 NKJV)
Growing up in a home filled with music and the Word of GOD, little did this youngest of five know that the LORD would use both to stir up a passion for longing to know HIM, to hear HIS voice, and to minister to others. “Prophetess T.” as she is affectionately called, is an anointed singer, songwriter, and prophetic worshipper. She was gifted at an early age to teach, train, counsel, and exhort others from the Word of GOD. In addition to having a Master’s Degree in Christian Counseling, she is a certified Life Coach, Mentor, Biblical Counselor, and licensed Minister. In June 2020, she published her first book: “31 Days of Trusting GOD: From the Heart of a Prophetic Worshipper Vol. 1.“ (available at Amazon.com) She lives in the Washington, DC metropolitan area with her husband and youngest son.