READ: Psalm 148-150
The final three chapters in the Book of Psalms are all about praise.
Each chapter recalls the mighty things of God. Each one invites all of creation
to join in the worship. These are songs one could imagine an entire
congregation, or even nation, singing to God for all He has done.
Psalm 148 is the invitation to praise. Every single thing that exists is
invited to praise the Lord. From the stars and the angels in the heavens, to
the beasts of the field and even insects on the ground, everything is invited
to join in the praise. The Psalmist lists so many things, not because he is
trying to be specific, but rather to make it clear nothing and nobody should be
left out. The Lord is to be praised by ALL His creation!
Psalm 149 is praise in the midst of battle. “Let the
high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands”. (vs. 6)
Although it is not only praise that affects success in battle, it is certainly
part of it. Any warrior who comes charging with a sword in his hand and a song
of praise on his lips is a warrior to fear. He himself is fearless because he
knows why he fights, whom he fights, and whom he fights for. He is prepared,
equipped and ready to be victorious. His mind is set on one thing: bringing
glory to God in all he does.
Psalm 150 wraps up the entire Book of Psalms with a hearty instruction
to praise God in song. All that has breath should praise the Lord! So many
instruments are named in this psalm, again revealing to us how magnificent and
excellent should be our praise. When an orchestra of this magnitude gathers it
is practiced and rehearsed. The notes are prepared and the lyrics memorized.
This corporate song of praise, loud in dynamic and exuberant in performance,
touches the heart of God. He welcomes this praise as it reveals His glory in
all the earth.
JOURNALING
& PRAYER
1. Luke 19:40 says if
we don’t praise the Lord the rocks will cry out. Spend some time praising God
for all He is. Try to praise Him for His character and who He is rather than
only the things He has done for you.
2. Ask the Lord to
show you how praising Him in the midst of a current battle you are in (perhaps
a battle against temptation, or anger, unforgiveness, a habitual sin, health
issues, or any other battle) can change the way the battle plays out. Ask the
Lord to give you stamina and joy in Him as you praise Him to victory. Take a
few minutes to praise God for the victory He wants to give you.
3. Take a few minutes
to look back through your journal and see what God has done. Write down two or
three areas of growth you have experienced. Praise Him and thank Him for the
way He is leading and growing you.
