Topic: Praise the Lord!
Psalm 150: 1-6, “Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty expanse. Praise Him for His mighty deeds; praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with timbrel and dancing; praise Him with stringed instruments and pipe. Praise Him with loud cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!”
It is to our benefit that we give glory to God through praising Him. It is also to our benefit because the Bible demands it. It is an expression of His goodness to us that we glorify Him, as this is what we were created for. We were created as worshiping beings. To give glory in the right place is to fulfil one of the very basic aspects of what it means to be human.
What is praise? Praise is expressing the greatness, beauty and excellence of something. This phrase, “Praise the Lord!” isn’t just a statement of excitement. If something good happens, you say, “Praise the Lord,” because you’re thankful.
How does the Bible say how you can praise the Lord? Some ways to praise the Lord include singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, using words, taking actions, uprightness, and of course, using all our heart.
How do you praise? Do you sing, dance, or shout? Do you play an instrument? Are you alone? In a group? At home? In the car?
Praise can be given anywhere and at any time. As long as it comes from your heart. A huge part of praising the Lord are prayers. Prayer is the simplest and surest way to convey appreciation. To God, sincere simple prayer given from the heart and expressing your thanks for the wonderful life you've been given will touch God deeply.
When do you praise the Lord? How often? Psalms 34:1-4 states, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul will make its boast in the Lord; the humble will hear it and rejoice. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
So, praise when you’re sure, when you’re doubting, when outnumbered, and when surrounded. Praise when you feel it, praise when you don't, and praise because you know God is in control.
See you Sunday,
Dr. Scott Kallem