God is always worthy of our praise. When we consider the reasons why we should praise God, we find a list of His attributes. First, He is good. There is no evil or sin within God. He is pure and righteous. Even though we are rebellious sinners, God loves us. He loves us when we run from His presence. He is love.
“God’s goodness is the root of all goodness; and our goodness, if we have any, springs out of His goodness.” — William Tyndale
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.” 1 John 4:7 (NKJV)
The Book of Psalms is full of reasons to praise God. Our Lord is full of perfect wisdom. He is faithful and gracious. Grace is a part of who God is and not just an action He bestows. His grace is something we do not earn or lose. So, as I said at the beginning of this devotion… God is ALWAYS worthy of our praise. In fact, creation is commanded to give praise to God (Psalm 148).
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” Ephesians 2:8 (NKJV)
During adversity we may find it difficult to sing God’s praises. Emotions can crush our willingness to trust His faithfulness during trials. Faith is what carries us through such times and praising Him will supernaturally help to guard our heart and mind. When we focus on the goodness of God, the web of lies of the enemy skillfully weaves will untangle. God’s word is powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword. The enemy can’t deceive your heart when it is hidden in heavenly places, sheltered under the shadow of His wing.
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
If you are in a place where praising God is difficult, God understands your struggle. It is truly a sacrifice of praise when you lift your voice to thank Him. In spite of your pain and suffering, start by asking God to strengthen and enable you to say thank you. He will honor your desire to worship Him.
Draw strength from other Bible characters who endured great suffering yet continued to praise the Lord. When we struggle with our walk God will meet us with compassion. Think of Job, Moses, and John the Baptist.
When you are pressed in on all sides and feel weak simply say JESUS! This prayer will send the adversary running. There is power in His name. When you resist the devil, he must flee. This is a promise!
“Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7 (NKJV)
Praise is powerful. It will set snares for the enemy and assist us in winning spiritual battles. If you are weak and struggling to praise God, you are in a spiritual battle. RISE UP! Focus on the attributes of God and thank Him. This is a decision. Praise can’t be offered if bitterness has taken root. One simple prayer will eventually lead to another. Over time, you will once again sing His praises. God does not always reveal the reason for circumstances, but faith assures us that …
“All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
May God grant you peace and increase your faith. Praise Him with a simple Hallelujah! You will bless Him and in return… you too will be blessed.
“I will praise the name of God with a song and will magnify Him with thanksgiving.”
Psalm 69:30 (NKJV)
Scriptures about praising God: https://www.openbible.info/topics/why_we_should_praise_god
Categories: INSPIRATIONAL DEVOTIONS, SPIRITUAL WARFARE, THOUGHT FOR TODAY
So true. Praise gets our focus off from worldly things and helps us realise the awesomeness of God. We often take turns at home to pause during family prayer time and think of all the reasons to praise God and the moment we start things begin to seem so different. Hope begins to rise and the atmosphere changes. Praise is one of the most precious gifts that God has created and I realise how it impacted the life of King David as he too drew strength from the Lord through praise. Thank you for reminding us to Praise through the adversity.