Monday, April 08, 2013

THE PRAISE SERIES (Part 7) - WHY WE SHOULD PRAISE GOD


"Praise is the greatest work God's children can ever do. It is the loftiest expression the saints can ever show. The highest manifestation of spiritual life is seen in men praising God" - Watchman Nee (Assembling Together)

When we contemplate the attributes of God, we can't help but thank and praise Him. Psalm 100:5 speaks of three of God's attributes that make Him worthy of our praise:
1) GOD'S GOODNESS
It's part of God's nature to be kind and benevolent. He is not frowning upon us; He's smiling on us through Jesus. We see His goodness in creation (Genesis 1:31; Psalm 33:5), even though man has wrecked it (Romans 8:19-23). God even shows His goodness to the unsaved nations of the world (Acts 14:17). His goodness keeps us from fainting (Psalm 27:13). He gives us courage (Psalm 27:14). God wants to guide us (Psalm 25:8-9) and protect us (Psalm 31:19-20). We should respond to His goodness in four ways:

- We should be giving thanks always (not complain)
- We should be repentant
- We should want to enjoy Him
- We should draw near to Him
2) GOD'S MERCY
Other Bible versions interpret the word "mercy" as "loving kindness" (Amplified Bible), "all-generous in love" (The Message) and "unfailing love" (New Living Translation).
When God is merciful, He does not give us what we deserve, which is eternal death for our sins. Mercy is forever a part of His nature (Hebrews 4:16; 1 Peter 1:3; Psalm 107).
Isn't it good to know that "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life?" (Psalm 23:6)
3) GOD'S FAITHFULNESS
This attribute speaks of God's reliability and stability. He is faithful to chasten us (Psalm 119:75). He is faithful to accept us (1 Corinthians 1:9). He is faithful to care for us and give us victory over temptation (1 Corinthians10:13). He is faithful to forgive us (1 John 1:9). God is not going to change (Hebrews 13:8). He is faithful to all He does.
GOD'S GOODNESS, MERCY, and FAITHFULNESS reveal much about Him. The more we contemplate His attributes, the more we can praise Him. Amen and amen and amen!

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