“Sing to the Lord, for He has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider He has thrown into the sea.” Exodus 15:21 (ESV)

Miriam, the first prophetess mentioned in the Bible and the sister of Moses and Aaron, was born into slavery under oppression. Scholars often call her a visionary. She played a significant role in saving her baby brother Moses—watching over the basket floating along the Nile until he was found by Pharaoh’s daughter. With wisdom and courage, she ensured that their mother became Moses’ nurse in the palace. Miriam is remembered for her faith, resilience, boldness, and leadership.

During the time of Exodus, the Israelites lived under harsh bondage. They were burdened by relentless labor, crushed by taskmasters, and surrounded by an oppressive atmosphere for many generations. But after God performed miraculous signs and wonders—and after the Red Sea parted and closed behind them—freedom finally came.

Right after Israel crossed the sea and witnessed the greatest deliverance of their lives, Miriam—the prophetess—led the women with singing, dancing, tambourines, and worship.

The beautiful irony is this: even in the years of bondage, she kept a tambourine ready and a song in her heart.

No oppression, burden, or responsibility silenced her praise.

While others packed silver and gold, Miriam packed joy. She carried an instrument of worship because she expected God to move.

She became the first recorded worship leader in Scripture—ushering in praise after the long-awaited freedom from slavery.

The Bible never records Miriam complaining during captivity. Instead, she is remembered as joyful and confident in the Lord. Her immediate response to victory reveals a lifestyle of praise—not something spontaneous, but something practiced.

Miriam was content in every season because she carried worship on her lips and gratitude in her heart.

Today, the Word of God reminds us to do the same:

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18

When Jesus healed ten lepers, only one returned to thank Him. Jesus noticed—and He asked, “Where are the other nine?” Gratitude matters to God.

Thanking God for what He has done is gratitude.

Thanking Him for what He will do is faith.

A grateful heart attracts the presence of God. As long as breath fills your lungs, choose to thank Him.

Gratitude changes posture, perspective, and destiny. When we cultivate gratitude toward God, we also learn to appreciate people He sent to help us on the journey.

Gratitude will take you places.

Thankfulness will open doors.

Praise will bring down walls.

Prayer:

Lord, give me a heart like Miriam—full of praise, gratitude, and faith. Help me worship through every season and trust You before I see the breakthrough. Let thankfulness always flow from my heart and lips. In Jesus’ name, Amen.