7 I will praise You with a sincere heart
when I learn Your righteous judgments.
Psalm 119:7 (HCSB)
The Expos. The Bengals. The Knicks. (Up until the last couple of years, the Cubs would have made this list.) Dismal sports teams. Ugly w-l records. Little hope for any change. But attend any of these teams' home games and you will find dyed-hair, face-painted, season-ticket holding super fans. Those individuals who year, after disappointing year, get suited up to suffer through another losing season. They take abuse, shake their heads at management's trades, and cling to the mantra, "There is always next year."
It is harmless and endearing to see these stalwart individuals support teams which may never rise above mediocrity and to watch the local news interviews with them recounting how their fathers had taken them to the games all those years ago. But there are times in life when we should not support and hold to a particular mind set or allegiance without evidence of strength and success.
Many of the Psalms focused on praise and thanksgiving. David wrote of singing, dancing, and celebration. His words of praise were reserved for his Heavenly Father. But these accolades were not done as a matter of sentimentality or because of a habitual ritual. No, David reserved his praise for a God who had proven Himself time and again.
Throughout his life, God guided, protected, and supported David. From the battle with Goliath to the caves of Adullam, God proved Himself steadfast. Our praise for God will never be misplaced. Don't be afraid to examine Him closely. Recall to mind all He has done. Learn about Him. Then when we praise Him it can be with a much more sincere heart.
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