The power of praise

When praising God, what do you say? Your words are important because they reveal what is in your heart (see Matthew 12:34). Your praise reveals the places in your life where God is working, and how much you really believe in Him. Through praise, God opens your heart so that you will know Him more deeply.

Praise refocuses our hearts so we can see God's plan for the future. In this life, you will face trials and troubles of many kinds. If you focus solely on your problems, eventually you will believe that disappointment is your destiny. It is not. Jesus has overcome every evil obstacle. If you focus on God's power, love, and glory, you realize that great things are possible.

Praise re-establishes God's reign over our hearts. Praise is often difficult because it is an invitation for God to have authority in your life. But turning the authority of your life over to Him means resting and trusting in God's love and sovereignty.

Praise fortifies our relationship with God. Praise reminds you that God loves you with an everlasting love. It also helps you recall that you are not alone. God is like an eternal flame of hope burning at your side. By expressing your adoration and thanksgiving to Him, you not only accept His love, you also learn how to reciprocate the love He gives to you.

Through praise, God prepares us to worship Him completely -- mind, body and soul -- so that we can experience the depths of His love. That is why Paul admonishes us to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). Let nothing hold you back; praise Him for His faithfulness and His care for you.

Prayer: God, help me to make praise a regular part of my life of worship. Thank You for the many blessings that come when I praise You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

"I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness; I will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High" (Psalm 7:17).