Psalm 69:30-32(AMP)
I will praise the name of God with song And magnify Him with thanksgiving. And it will please the Lord better than an ox Or a young bull with horns and hoofs. The humble have seen it and are glad; You who seek God [requiring Him as your greatest need], let your heart revive and live.
From our anchored Scripture, our thanksgiving and praise gives God pleasure and secures our lives. It is a great comfort to us, that humble and thankful praises are more pleasing to God than the most costly, self-important sacrifices. It is written in Psalm 22:3 “But You are holy, O You who are enthroned in [the holy place where] the praises of Israel [are offered].” That is, God is present and glorified when His people lift His Name in honor. He enjoys it and draws nearer to us in praise. Praising and giving God thanks brings Him to sit in the center of our lives. God is pleased when we are thankful hence it does not matter who is displeased with us. It is of no consequence!
One of the most effective tools that shift our emotions in the midst of the dark season is to praise the Name of God with a song. It has the power to almost instantly transport us from the pit of complaint and despair to a realm of highest praise. It prompts God into instant action, changing the spiritual climate around us and manifesting His Presence. Praises will bring God’s Power down into our situations and give us the needed victory. The Apostle Paul is a great example of one who chose praise in very hard circumstances. God had given Paul a vision and told him to go to Philippi. But shortly after arriving, he was arrested, beaten and thrown into prison. However, he and Silas sang praises to God even in the midst of a painful situation(Acts 16:1-40). When we feel like complaining or have been mistreated, we can respond in praise and thanks to God. When we are dealing with anger, sadness, and other deep emotions, enter into worship and soak in God’s truth by giving Him praise and thanks. It will empower us to proclaim God’s truth over our circumstances.
Beloved, choosing to praise and thank God is vital in bringing you victory because it will please Him better than a sacrifice. In times of problems and trials, cultivate the attitude of praises and thanksgivings. God is life and a focus on Him will minister that life to you. As you magnify and praise the Lord, He will become larger in your eyes. Your faith will be strengthened as you worship Him in every season of your life. Today, take some time to thank and praise God for all things. Choose to see the good things in your life and be thankful for them. Declare the goodness and glory of the Lord for He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. As you praise and thank Him, trust that out of His very nature He will hear and respond to you with grace upon grace. Thank God for He loves you and is working mightily on your behalf. Remember, praise and thanksgiving will prevent the enemy from dethroning you because God cannot be overthrown!
O Lord, I receive the grace to praise You at all times and in all things in Jesus’ Name.