Shout for joy to God

Have you ever been to a professional soccer or football game? Have you ever been crammed into a small gym to watch a packed-out basketball game? Have you ever cheered on your children or grandkids during one of their recitals?

There is a type of joy that can only be expressed with a loud shout or clap. The Bible says, “May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness...” (Psalms 35:27, NIV, bold added). In fact, shouting to God seems to usher in joy and increase it to new levels. “You are my hiding place; You, LORD, protect me from trouble; You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance. Selah.” (Psalms 32:7, AMP, bold added) This scripture continues with this theme but reveals a secret weapon: God surrounds you with His shout. Wow! That’s incredible.

friend, I’m honored to be a grandfather. I take this role very seriously. I attend soccer games every Saturday and whenever I can. I’ve even traveled to another state to watch my grandkids compete. I need to warn you that I’m not a quiet fan. I shout, clap, and cheer them on at every turn. I even have a secret weapon that I employ in dire situations: I whistle. Yes, I whistle really loudly, so loudly that everyone hears it. Our players’ parents love it, but the families of opposing teams seem to hate it. Moms and dads, cheer for your children. The devil may be roaring like a lion in these troubled times, but raise your voice and drown out his lies with a mighty shout to God.

I think God does the same for us. He shouts and screams in our favor. Life may be hard right now, but God is shouting in your favor. In fact, the Bible tells us we have heavenly witnesses that are cheering us on from the stands: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1, NIV)  

friend, you can make it. I believe in you. I love you because you are a miracle, and miracles are not silent. I love you more than milkshakes.