Thursday, November 27, 2014 Our Daily Bread A Lesson In Praise By Julie Ackerman Link Psalm 150 is not only a beautiful expression of praise, it’s also a lesson in praising the Lord. It tells us where to praise, why we’re to praise, how we’re to praise, and who should offer praise. Where do we praise? In God’s “sanctuary†and “mighty firmament†(v.1). Wherever we are in the world is a proper place to praise the One who created all things. Why do we praise? First, because of what God does. He performs “mighty acts.†Second, because of who God is. The psalmist praised Him for “His excellent greatness†(v.2). The all-powerful Creator is the Sustainer of the universe. How should we praise? Loudly. Softly. Soothingly. Enthusiastically. Rhythmically. Boldly. Unexpectedly. Fearlessly. In other words, we can praise God in many ways and on many occasions (vv.3-5). Who should praise? “Everything that has breath†(v.6). Young and old. Rich and poor. Weak and strong. Every living creature. God’s will is for everyone to whom He gave the breath of life to use that breath to acknowledge His power and greatness. Praise is our enthusiastic expression of gratitude to God for reigning in glory forever. Let every creature rise and bring Peculiar honors to our King; Angels descend with songs again, And earth repeat the loud amen! —Watts Praise is the overflow of a joyful heart. Insight The focus of this psalm is obvious. The word praise is used 13 times in these 6 short verses. Praise is defined as “expressing approval of or admiration for someone or something.†But this definition seems dry and stiff. In today’s psalm, praise is an occasion for celebration—involving music and dance. Praise of the Lord is a joyous occasion, a celebration of who He is and what He has done. The psalmist simply assumes that joy, excitement, and happiness are all part of our praise to God.
Posted on: Wed, 26 Nov 2014 23:58:32 +0000