When you give honour and respect, you will receive honour and respect. When you minister to God by praising Him (Hebrews 13:15), God ministers to you in return (1 Samuel 2:30b). Most importantly, God is enthroned in your praises (Psalms 22:3).
What Scripture Says
"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thess. 5:18)."Giving thanks always for all things to God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:20).
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28).
"But You are holy, who inhabit (is enthroned by) the praises of Israel" (Psalms 22:3).
"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name" (Heb. 13:15).
"Far be it from Me; for those who honour Me I will honour..." (1 Samuel 2:30b).
Why Praise?
The Old Testament priests ministered to God by offering sacrifices on behalf of the people. Today, we minister to God by offering the sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15).You should offer sacrifices of praise especially when you face doubts, obstacles, temptations and the lack of desire to praise. Your praise has been accepted by God when joy and victory come, your burdens lift and peace reigns. Praise God continually in the Spirit so that the Spirit won't be "quenched" (1 Thessalonians 5:19).
You enter into the very presence of God through offering thanksgiving and praise (Psalms 100:4). God honours sincere praise. When you praise Him, you show that you respect Him. Just as you show honour and respect to your elders, superiors, spouse, parents and friends, God expects you to honour Him (above all).
As You Praise
Praise God in the face of adversity, need and plenty. Even praise Him for seemingly small things such as the need for a parking space (before you look for one). In all things, praise Him—especially when you don't feel like it. Persevere in praise. Praise Him in song. Speak out His praise. Praise Him when you awake. Praise Him as you lie down to sleep. Praise Him when you are tempted and continue until the temptation is gone. Praise Him in sickness. He will glorify Himself and raise up the sick. Praise Him for doing it even before it is done.Give thanks to God and praise Him continually. Expect God to begin ministering to you and give you victory, peace and joy. Expect Him to bless you as you praise Him in your need or in times of victory. As the psalmist said, "PRAISE THE LORD."
Suggested Reading
Read Prison To Praise, Power To Praise, Praise Works, and Answers To Praise by Merlin Carothers.Biblical Expressions of Praise:
- Psalms 33:2; 51:8; 150:3-5 (with music)
- Revelation 19:1-10; Psalm 71:8 (with your mouth)
- Psalms 63:4; 134:2; 141:2; 47:1 (with your hands)
- Psalm 95:6; Ephesians 3:14 (bowing and kneeling)
- Psalm 135:2 (standing)
- Acts 3:8; 2 Samuel 6:16 (walking and leaping)
- Psalm 150:4; 2 Samuel 6:14 (dancing)
Results of Praise:
- Psalm 149:4 (delight of God)
- Psalm 50:23 (glorifies God)
- Jude 1:20 (edifies)
God loves you and we love you! Please give us the privilege of doing our best to help more. For further ministry, you may contact the Crossroads Ministry Centre by writing to:
Crossroads Christian Communications Inc.
Attn: National Ministry Centre
PO Box 5100
Burlington, Ontario L7R 4M2
