The Purpose of Praise

“Let everything that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.” - Psalm 150:6

Recently, I attended the Sight & Sound production of the story of David. (Note: this show was absolutely amazing, and I definitely recommend checking it out) One of the songs that stood out to me was titled “Let Everything That Has Breath.” The theme of this song comes from Psalm 150. 

A verse of this song went through the different aspects of nature and how they all point to our Creator. It struck me, how often do I go about my day, seeing all the things that God has created, yet I don’t even think to praise Him for it. We all have been guilty of taking God’s creation for-granted.

In Psalm 150, we learn that when we decide to follow God, there will be both blessings and tribulations. However, the Lord will guide us and allow us to live a victorious life; this is why we should praise Him! David was not the only one who knew the true meaning of praise.

John Wesley was about 21 years of age when he went to Oxford University. He came from a Christian home, and he was gifted with a keen mind and good looks. Yet in those days he was a bit snobbish and sarcastic. One night, however, something happened that set in motion a change in Wesley's heart. While speaking with a porter, he discovered that the poor fellow had only one coat and lived in such impoverished conditions that he didn't even have a bed. Yet he was an unusually happy person , filled with gratitude to God. Wesley, being immature, thoughtlessly joked about the man's misfortunes. "And what else do you thank God for?" he said with a touch of sarcasm.  The porter smiled, and in the spirit of meekness replied with joy, "I thank Him that He has given me my life and being, a heart to love Him, and above all a constant desire to serve Him!" Deeply moved, Wesley recognized that this man knew the meaning of true thankfulness.*

Many years later, in 1791, John Wesley lay on his deathbed at the age of 88. Those who gathered around him realized how well he had learned the lesson of praising God in every circumstance. Despite Wesley's extreme weakness, he began singing the hymn, "I'll Praise My Maker While I've Breath." 

1. The Point of Praise

What is the point of praise? Well, let’s look at David’s life! When we look at the life of David, we realize that his praise to the Lord started from a young age, when he was a shepherd boy. The point of our praise is to prepare us for the presence of the Lord. The Good Shepherd is waiting at the door, wanting to be a part of our everyday lives, yet we must be reminded that it is our praise that invites him in. Praise points us to the Lamb who was slain for our soul’s salvation. Praise expresses gratitude. 

Application: How can my praise glorify Christ?

2. The Power of Praise

The effect that praise had on David’s life was unbelievable. The music that he played for Saul calmed him. When we praise the Lord, it gives us the opportunity to share God's love with others. What does the Bible say about David? 

“He was a man after God's own heart.” 

While David had many characteristics, when we read through the Psalms, there are dozens, possibly hundreds, of praises to our Savior. The power of praise enables us to have peace with God and to renew us.

Application: How can my praise of God influence others to praise God?

3.The Purpose of Praise

When it all comes down to it, we remember why we were created in the first place. God created us to glorify him through our love and lives. Our purpose on Earth is not just to praise the Lord, but there are so many benefits. Praise is our offering to God-not because he needs our affirmation-but what He deserves and desires. The Lord knows what our praise to Him will do for us.

Application: How can my praise motivate me to be a more consistent Christian?

“Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name” (Psalm 30:4).

Our praise is a reflection of our heart’s attitude towards Christ. If our hearts are right, it should come naturally for us to give glory to our Savior. As long as we have breath, we are under orders to glorify God in all that we are, and all that we do! 

*Illustration from Sermon Illustrations*