Praise is a basic of the Christian life.
It would be difficult to think of anything more foundational than praising God who has given everything on His people’s behalf.
Most issues in life that plague mankind could easily be traced back to an existence void of praise.
This is because it impossible to think of one’s self when offering praise to God, and most problems arise because of self-centeredness and pride.
These next articles will discuss the when, where and how of praise.
So, why should man praise God? Why does the God of the universe need man’s praise?
The first and main reason that we are commanded to do so.
Psalm 150:1 states, “Hallelujah! Praise God in His sanctuary. Praise Him in His mighty heavens.”
In English, much of the original emphasis is lost. A simple exclamation point is added, and the reader is supposed to grasp the emotion. The writer, however, would have seen that verse as a command.
He understood that there is no option but to praise God. Because of everything God had given to him, he must praise Him because He is worth it.
The next reason: God is enthroned on praise. Yes, ON our praises.
Psalm 22:3 says, “But You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.”
God is essentially glorified, honored, and lifted by the praises of His people. It is man’s responsibility to ensure God is exalted throughout all of creation!
Next, it is a good thing to praise God.
Psalm 92:1 makes this idea clear, “It is good to praise Yahweh, to sing praise to Your name, Most High.”
Of all the destructive things in which man invests his time, praising God Most High stands as a stark contrast. How good it is to think of a great God who loves me!
God is worthy of praise.
Another verse, Psalm 48:1 says, “Great is the Lord and most worthy of our praise.”
Because of the sacrifice of God’s Son (His very nature made flesh) for mankind, is not God worthy of all the praise man can offer Him? Without God’s gift, man would be destined to a life without hope and a future apart from God Himself.
Finally, God’s creation was created to praise.
1 Corinthians 10:31 states, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory.”
Every detail of life should lead to praise, whether it is working, eating, relaxing, spending time with family, or going to church – God desires that man’s life be one of continual praise.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, “What is the chief end of man?” This writing offers a powerful answer. It states, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.”
Does your life show you glorifying God and enjoying him? Do you understand you were created to praise? If so, then your life is built in a solid foundation.
