Devotional: Authentic Praise

Psalm 148

“Let them praise the name of the LORD, For He commanded and they were created. He has established them forever and ever; He has made a decree which will not pass away” (Psalm 148:5-6, NASB).

As Christians, we may fail in living our life according to the will of God as recorded in the Holy Scriptures. We live in a society in which culture is always changing. Although the church is attacked by Satan and his demons, the church today continues to place a great emphasis on praise. Jesus is praised through music and singing, dance, preaching, theatre, and shouts of praise to God and our Lord Jesus Christ. However, may wonder who is being praised. Is it the performer, or is it Jesus? What makes praise to God authentic praise?

Some Psalms, for example, Psalm 149 and 150 suggest many methods to be used to Praise the Lord. Psalms 148 suggest to us that everything in creation is to praise the Lord. All people of the earth are called upon to praise Him. Authentic praise occurs when the things that God created obeys God’s commands to function as God created them to do so (vv. 5-6). Authentic praise takes place when people exalt the name of the Lord because they recognize what God is doing in the lives of people; and especially their own life (vv. 11-14).

We thank you Father for your demonstration of your love for us. You sent your Son Jesus to sacrifice His life on the cross for our sins. We have no greater reason to praise your name, and in whatever place in life we find ourselves in, we still praise you. Amen!