Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Praise


Reasons to praise God:

First, God is truly worthy of praise.

Second, praise draws us closer to God.

Third, all who praise God are blessed.

Fourth, praise is contagious.

Fifth, Satan's power is broken when we praise God.

Sixth, praise is a witness to carnal Christians and non-Christians.

Seventh, praise opens our hearts and minds to receive God's message.

Eighth, praise is a form of sacrifice.

Ninth, praise makes for a more joyful life.

Tenth, praise enhances human relationships.

Eleventh, praise is a supernatural expression of faith.

From Promises
A Daily Guide to Supernatural Living
by Bill Bright
Think of praise as applause for God. It is a public recognition of who He is and what He has done. Have you ever felt like you wanted to get on your feet and clap for God?

It's easy to praise God when things are going our way but what about the other times? In Hebrews 13:15 it talks about offering a sacrifice of praise to God. Sometimes it's work and we don't feel like it. We're down and disappointed and it feels good to wallow in self-pity. That's when we need to call to mind who and what God is. Rise to your feet, clap your hands and begin to praise. With eyes off self, things start to look better. Depression starts to lift and the sun appears from behind the clouds.

Puritan Thomas Watson wrote, "When we praise God, we spread his fame and renown. Praising God is one of the highest and purest acts of religion. In prayer we act like men; in praise we act like angels."

A famous hymn from the seventeenth century, written by Thomas Ken is called the Doxology (an English word for praise). Here are the words:

Praise God from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him all creatures here below;
Praise Him above ye heav'nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Amen.




It's a simple song yet packed with meaning. All blessings come from God and we should proclaim it.

Philip

No comments:

Post a Comment