- Psalms 100:1-5 - Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
- 1 Peter 2:9 - But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
- Psalms 105:5 - Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
- Psalms 113:3 - From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised.
- Psalms 108:3 - I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.
- Psalms 111:1 - Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
Have you ever thought about how you approach the Lord? Sometimes a person presents their requests to God one after another but forgets to thank and praise Him. In doing so, there is a danger of seeing God merely as someone who satisfies needs, and love, worship, and gratitude toward Him recede into the background. 1 Peter 2:9 says that God's people are called to "proclaim the excellencies" of Him. The Lord is not indifferent to our needs and invites us to bring them to Him in prayer. However, He wants us to come into His presence not only with requests but also with hearts filled with worship and gratitude. What is the purpose of praise? When we begin to praise God, our focus shifts from our problems to the Lord Himself. Then we remember His works in our lives, His faithfulness, and His mercy. Scripture calls us to praise God with joy, at all times, and in the presence of others. Today, remember the greatest work God has done in your life—the salvation you received by grace through faith in Christ. Praise the Father for His faithfulness, love, and righteousness. As your heart fills with praise, anxieties will lose their power, and you will trust more that God will meet all your needs in His own time.
Reflection
How can you praise God today by reflecting on His character and grace toward you before presenting your requests to Him?
