NOVEMBER 27, 2014
A
Lesson In Praise
Read: Psalm
150
Praise the Lord! —Psalm
150:1
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.
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
