WHEN WE PRAISE

Psalm 150:1-6 "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord."

Perhaps no book exemplifies the spirit of praise and worship more than the Book of Psalms. It has more verses of praise than any other book in the Bible. Obviously, God desires the prises of His people and me for one am glad this book was written to inspire us to praise God.

Our heavenly Father tells us to give Him thanks in everything (1Thess.5:18)-even when things press against our souls. We may not understand what is happening; we may never understand it. But God's will in each circumstance is that we praise and thank Him.

But Why?

It's because praise is the clearest and most direct means you and I can declare our dependence on God. We can trust in Him in the darkest hour. We confess our allegiance and devotion to Jesus Christ, who was crucified for us and whom we are eternally joined.

Here are some specific benefits that derive from praising the Lord:

Praise magnifies God. Praise puts our focus on God, not on our problems. God's power, presence, and ability transform our thinking.

Praise humbles us. When we worship God, we gain a right view of ourselves. Praise deflates excess pride and ego. WE gain a healthy self-image based on God's view of us. By removing pride, praise strengthens us against temptation.

Praise reveals our devotion to God. If I love Christ, I will praise Him. If He has first place in my life, I will honor Him with worship and thanksgiving.

Praise motivates us to holy living. Praise opens our hearts to want to live the way God desires-holy and separated unto Him, to do His will above our own, to want to be like Him more than like anyone else. The more we worship Him, the more like Him we will become.

Praise increases our joy. Joy is the constant companion of praise. If we feel depressed or discouraged, praising God will soon bring us joy.

Praise establishes our faith. The greater we see our God; the smaller we see our problem.

Praise elevates our emotions. Worry, fear, and doubt cannot survive for long in an atmosphere of praise.

If you want to see a difference in your relationship with Christ and in your walk with Him, start to praise Him today. Continue even when you feel prone to give up. Commit yourself to a life of praise and fellowship with Jesus-and experience the fullness of what God means by "joy."

God Bless.