Lament, Trust and Praise

Florence continues the series "Lament, Trust and Praise", moving into the theme of praise through Psalm 118. The sermon's main message is that God's people are called to praise him not only when life is easy, but also in times of difficulty, because his love endures forever. She explains that Psalm 118 is full of confidence in God's steadfast love, mercy, goodness and faithfulness. The psalm may have been used at Passover, and Florence notes its strong connection to Jesus, especially as he approached the cross. The sermon follows five main responses from the psalm. First, we should thank the Lord for his enduring love. The repeated phrase "his love endures forever" reminds us that God's love outlasts every difficult circumstance. Florence encourages listeners to say this truth aloud and let it shape their perspective. Second, we should focus on the Lord in difficult situations. The psalmist is hard pressed and surrounded by enemies, yet he keeps returning to the truth that the Lord is with him and is his helper. Florence encourages believers to take refuge in God rather than relying ultimately on people or circumstances. Third, we should praise the Lord for what he has done. The psalm speaks of the Lord's right hand acting with power. Florence encourages specific praise, not vague thankfulness, and suggests remembering the many ways God has helped, protected and sustained us. Fourth, we should rejoice in the Lord's provision of a Saviour. Florence highlights the verse, "The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone," explaining that it points to Jesus. Though rejected by people, Jesus is God's chosen foundation. Through him, believers are saved from sin and given secure hope. Finally, we should exalt the Lord for his goodness and love. The psalm ends in personal praise: "You are my God, and I will praise you." Florence explains that praise means adoring God for who he is and thanking him for what he has done. The sermon closes by encouraging listeners to praise God throughout the week, especially when life is hard. 0:00 Introduction: Lament, Trust and Praise 0:39 Psalm 118: Praising God in Difficult Times 1:04 Praise in Every Circumstance 2:05 God's Enduring Love and Faithfulness 3:07 Five Bends in the Road 3:52 Give Thanks: His Love Endures Forever 7:13 Focus on the Lord in Difficulty 13:24 Praise the Lord for What He Has Done 20:39 The Rejected Stone Becomes the Cornerstone 25:46 Rejoice in the Day the Lord Has Made 29:53 Rejoice in the Lord's Provision of a Saviour 31:56 Exalt the Lord for His Goodness and Love