Scripture References: Luke 10:27; Psalm 150:6; Psalm 145; Psalm 22:3; Genesis 29:35; 2 Kings 3:15; Psalm 50:23; Psalm 95:6
Intro: Following last week's message on a high view of the church, today we explore a high view of praise. Praise is a natural human response to things we value (good food, movies, etc.). In church, however, our backgrounds and preferences often shape or limit our understanding and expression. Let's move beyond comfort zones and preferences to see what God's Word reveals about wholehearted praise.
Key Points:
- Praise: Response & Command: Praise erupts naturally when we experience goodness, but it's also commanded. Jesus affirmed the greatest commandment includes loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Luke 10:27) – implying full engagement. Scripture commands, "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord" (Ps 150:6).
- Biblical Praise is Diverse (7 Hebrew Words): God invites varied expressions, expanding beyond just singing:
- Yadah: Extending/throwing hands (surrender, adoration).
- Halal: Raving, celebrating, clamorous/foolish joy (root of Hallelujah).
- Shabak: Shouting praise/testimony loudly.
- Zamar: Making music with instruments; creating an atmosphere.
- Todah: Thank offering/sacrifice, often before deliverance; costly praise.
- Barak: Kneeling, bowing in adoration/submission.
- Tehillah: Spontaneous, personal, unrehearsed song/praise from the heart (God is "enthroned" on this - Ps 22:3).
- Overcoming Hindrances: We often hold back due to:
- "Not my personality": Praise is obedience, not just temperament.
- Discomfort/Awkwardness: Past experiences or fear of looking foolish. We must get over ourselves and preferences.
- Fear of "Faking It": Praise is an act of faith based on His worthiness, not just our feelings. Obedience often precedes feeling. Don't wait for goosebumps.
- Word & Spirit Praise: We embrace both biblical instruction/forms and the Holy Spirit's leading into spontaneous, heartfelt expression (tehillah).
Conclusion: God desires and deserves wholehearted praise, engaging our entire being in diverse ways revealed in Scripture. It's more than just singing songs we like; it's an obedient, faith-filled response to His worthiness, moving beyond comfort zones and cultural norms into genuine, expressive worship.
Call to Action: Reflect on the different biblical expressions of praise. Which ones challenge you? Choose one unfamiliar or uncomfortable form to practice this week (privately or corporately) as an act of obedience. Ask the Holy Spirit for freedom from fear, self-consciousness, or limiting preferences. Engage in worship now with a fresh desire to praise Him wholeheartedly, responding to His Word.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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