“BLESSINGS + PRAISES”

1 Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! 

Psalm 112:1

“BLESSINGS + PRAISES”

It's quite easy to be discontented and gripe over things that are not up to our standards. We're so vociferous in expressing our displeasure. But when it comes to praising God for His goodness, are we expressive enough?

The characteristics of God in Psalm 111 are now the qualities of a true believer in 112. In the NT, Christians are described as being conformed to the image of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:29), being transformed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). Therefore, more than focusing on the blessing, we will focus on becoming more like the Source of blessings. This psalm describes how a faithful believer responds to different circumstances in life. 

This passage gives us four ways in which a God-fearing man responds to God’s practical blessings. Here's the first one.

A God-fearing man praises God.

The writer starts by praising God. The Hebrew word for praise is “halal,” “to shine, to boast.” It pictures a joyous celebration, resulting in one making a show. It reminds me of David’s rejoicing when he successfully moved the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. He was dancing with all his might, to his wife’s annoyance (2 Samuel 6:16). So, to praise God isn’t simply honoring Him with words, but also with physical demonstrations of gratitude and wonder.

But there’s more to worship than meets the eye.

15 “Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.”

Hebrews 13:15

Worshipping God isn’t just about speaking words of praise and thanksgiving; it also involves acts of love toward other people. Worship is the right response of a person forgiven his sins. It takes self-awareness and humility to truly give God the honor and reverence He deserves. 

Do you appreciate how good God has been to you? Do you give Him the proper worship due Him? Are you not ashamed to proclaim God’s goodness? Tell somebody about Jesus.

Pursue the Saviour today!