There are times in our lives when we don't feel like praising God. Sadness, depression, loneliness, or that simple but hard to explain feeling of "something's missing" causes many Christians to shut their mouths in praising the Lord.

But the truth is, whether we feel like praising Him or not, God is still worthy to be praised.

What to Do When You Don't Feel Like Praising God

Sure, there will be times when we won't feel like praising God. But our feelings do not and cannot change the truth that God never changes: He remains sovereign, good, wise, and praiseworthy no matter what we go through.

We should not rely on our feelings or circumstances. David said in Psalm 42:5, "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance."

He didn't let his feelings get the best of him. Rather, he commanded his soul to praise.

Command Your Soul to Praise Him

In Psalm 103:1, David commanded his soul to praise the Lord. He said, "Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name!" You can do that, too.

Friend, we are in control of our emotions, no matter how raging or sullen they may be. We should command ourselves to praise the Lord even when we don't feel so good. When the feeling of gratefulness is gone, just remember what God has done for you, and praise Him once more.

David continues in Psalm 103:2-5, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."

That's what we should do.

Praise Him When You're Down and Out

Friend, when you're down and out, you need to realise that God is there. When we feel lost and lonely, the Bible tells us that God is there. When we feel bad and are left needy and longing, God is there. Psalm 34:18 tells us, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed."

Believe that God is with you, even if you don't feel Him. Our emotions don't dictate His presence. Rather, His goodness should dictate what we feel, think, and do.

"Bless the Lord, all His works, In all places of His dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!" – Psalm 103:22