Praise Works

Praise Works

The climax of God’s happiness is the delight He takes in the echoes of His excellence in the praises of His people.

John Piper

It’s early in the year, and I challenge you to establish a new habit, beginning today. Start praising Me. You don’t have to be in a quiet place or even alter the schedule of your day. When you are alone, speak out loud to Me with words of praise. I inhabit the praises of My people (Psalm 22:3, KJV). As you focus on Me, your spirits will be lifted and your heart encouraged.

Begin by speaking My names and My attributes—Abba Father, Holy One, Redeemer, Healer, Protector, Savior, Comforter, Creator, the Great I AM, the God for whom nothing is impossible, the One who is altogether lovely, your Hope, your Strength, your Fortress, He who is present everywhere, all-powerful and all-knowing, the One who is just, the One who forgives, the One who loves you. Pour out your praise to Me and be amazed at how much you become aware of My presence in your circumstances. I will be all of those things to you and much more. Change your focus to Me and allow your heart to break free from any discouragement.

Let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name.

Hebrews 13:15