I have struggled with seasonal allergies for over 30 years. Sneezing daily is a part of my morning routine. On many days, congestion and sinus pressure join the fun and I am left feeling debilitated.

Unfortunately, there are moments that I simply lose my joy. I may have had such a moment just this morning. I found myself at a pity party that I tend to attend during such occasions.

Then, I read Psalm 34 in The Passion Translation. It was written by David after running away from the king as described in 1 Samuel 21. Can you imagine the fear and weariness that were coursing through his veins? Yet, this song is titled “God’s Goodness” and he says,

1Lord! I’m bursting with joy over what you’ve done for me!
My lips are full of perpetual praise.
2I’m boasting of you and all your works,
so let all who are discouraged take heart.
3Join me, everyone! Let’s praise the Lord together.
Let’s make him famous!
Let’s make his name glorious to all.
4Listen to my testimony: I cried to God in my distress
and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears!
5Gaze upon him, join your life with his, and joy will come.
Your faces will glisten with glory.
You’ll never wear that shame-face again.
6When I had nothing, desperate and defeated,
I cried out to the Lord and he heard me,
bringing his miracle-deliverance when I needed it most.
7The angel of the Lord stooped down to listen as I prayed,
encircling me, empowering me, and showing me how to escape.
He will do this for everyone who fears God.
8Drink deeply of the pleasures of this God.
Experience for yourself the joyous mercies he gives
to all who turn to hide themselves in him.
9Worship in awe and wonder, all you who’ve been made holy!
10… those who passionately pursue the Lord
will never lack any good thing.
18The Lord is close to all whose hearts are crushed by pain,
19Even when bad things happen to the good and godly ones,
the Lord will save them and not let them be defeated
by what they face.

Wow! There’s nothing like God’s living Word to steer you in the right direction. Let’s just say that the balloons from my pity party had popped. I began to worship with all that was within me as I sang “Goodness of God” by Bethel Music. I found myself feeling encouraged by David’s testimony and my prayer is that you are, too my Friend for whatever you are walking through today.

“And all my life You have been faithful
And all my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God”
~Joyce