The Power of Praise

I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1 NASB, KJV

David’s passion was God and it spilled out of him through praise. Of the 150 chapters in the book of Psalm, 64 give reference to it. 133 verses mention it. David knew the power of praise! He sang it, spoke it, wrote it, and practiced it. Plus, he encouraged others to do the same. He had learned to praise God in good times as well as bad. He expressed it when his heart was full of joy or when he felt over whelmed with anxiety. He praised God for who He was as well as for all He had done. It was his daily experience and expression.

The word ‘praise’ is rich with meaning! There are eight different Greek words that are used for praise. Their meanings broaden my view of the subject. Praise means to worship, celebrate, laud, congratulate, and commend. It is acclaiming and ascribing honor. It entails thankfulness, blessing, and adoration. No wonder God inhabits the praises of His people! How His ears must perk up every time we verbalize it!

For the past year or so I have been learning the importance of guarding my thoughts and the power of spoken words. Yesterday, God decided to help me see the reward of doing both! Early on in the day, He nudged me to praise Him whenever the enemy whispered lies or discouraging thoughts to me. I discovered the benefit of this four word phrase: I praise You, God! The minute a wrong thought came my way I voiced the phrase. Before the thought was even complete I spoke the praise. I was amazed at the result.

I learned a praise advantage I was not aware existed. Praise not only delights and pleases God, it has a dulling and inhibiting affect on wrong moods, thoughts, and attitudes. It is actually a detriment to the attacks of the enemy, other people’s words, and my own feelings. Each time I spoke the words of praise I interrupted the flow of negative, damaging thoughts. It was like pouring water on a flame. What a powerful extinguisher! No wonder David found it necessary to do all the time and on a continual basis. May I follow his example and do the same!

Father, I have found praise to be my shield during attacks as well as my flag to wave in triumph! Help me to cultivate and communicate a heart and voice of praise! Amen.