A LESSON IN PRAISE                                         Psalm 63:1-11

“Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You.” (v3)

Dr W. E Sangster once preached a sermon on the theme “What eternity is too short for? It was inspired, he said, by the experience of a minister who went to preach in a church he had never been to before and was told that partially sighted and blind people always occupied the front pews with some comforting, familiar verses. Their choice of song challenged him immediately: When all Thy mercies, O my God my rising soul surveys Transported with the view: I’m lost in wonder love and praise Through all eternity, to these, a joyful song I’ll raise; But Of Eternity’s too short to utter all Thy praise.”

When the minister first looked at the blind members of the congregation, he had seen only limitations, but their positive rejoicing hymn choice reminded him about the importance of praising heart. The more ready we are to praise the more aware we will be of the divine presence. Each one of us has limitations or difficult circumstances to deal with, and the best way for us to manage these issues is by opening our hearts more fully to God through praise. If you are finding cultivating a lifestyle of praise difficult, remind yourself of these amazing truths: God is the one who truly satisfies, who upholds you and keeps you. His love is indeed “better than life” (v3) As you begin to dwell on His goodness, your soul will become thirstier for Him. Today, open your life, and your lips to God afresh: be thankful for His mercies and great love for you.

PRAYER LINE: Father, I realize that a praising heart provides an open door way for You to come to me, but let that not be the only reason for my praise. I praise You because of who You are – a loving and wondrous Creator, in Jesus’ Name. Amen (EDWJ)

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There is healing in praise and worship.