The Surprising Power of Praise

A couple of weeks ago I shared about the framework for wonder that I’ve been building into my days. Going outside at Bunny O’Clock is part of that structure. In case you missed the email where I explained it—Bunny O’Clock is what I call that early evening golden hour that slowly turns to blue, when bunnies like to nibble clover in the shadows along the forest’s edge.  

Here’s something I’ve learned from Bunny O’Clock: No matter what’s going on in my life, I can always thank God for the beauty I see. And those small offerings of thanks have a way of growing into big, honest praise. And I’ve found that praise—genuine worship—has this miraculous power to transform my thinking. It really does. I go out empty and come back full. I go out insecure and come back rooted, remembering where I belong in this big story that’s been unfolding since that first light shone in the darkness. It brings perspective.

I’ll share an example of the way it sounds when I’m thanking God at Bunny O’ Clock. You may notice that the focus begins with little things I see but then it moves far beyond those into worship. 

Thank You for green.

Thank You for cloudy skies.

Thank You for tangled branches.

Thank You for how dark the forest looks and how mysterious.

Thank You for the way the light makes the trees glow golden on the hill.

Thank You for rooftops.

Thank you for possibilities.

You’re the God of possibilities,

The God of doors,

The Father of Lights,

The beginning of every great story.

You have no end.

Your’re the great hero, 

The golden thread,

The rescuer.

Thank You for You,

Thank You for You,

Thank You for You.

I think we often make the mistake of trying to force ourselves to become better people by scolding ourselves for what we lack, and then resolving to do more or be more. I’ve done that loads of times and it’s not very effective. It’s very inward focussed. But I think God made us to be reflectors and responders. When we are looking at Him, we will become more worshipful, courageous, loving, and forgiving because it’s the natural result. As natural as a lake reflecting the sky.  

And looking at the sky can be a good place to start. Especially at Bunny O’Clock.

Blessings to you,

Amy