What does it mean to have a praising heart? We must give our absolute all to ensure we express how wonderful our God is. We must always remain thankful and praise our God most high.
In the Old Testament we read how when people saw God do amazing things they responded in uninhibited praise and worship. They did not hold back. We have seen God do wonderful things too. The most important of all is that He has removed our sins forever. If the Old Testament saints responded with such heartfelt praise, even though they had not had Jesus come to this earth yet, how much more should we rejoice as we see the full reality of Christ's glorious gospel?
Praising God is not reserved for church on Sunday. It should be a lifestyle. Praise brings God's reality right into our situation. Psalm 34:1 reads "I bless God every chance that I get; my lungs expand with His praise". Praise in an expression of faith - a declaration that God is in control. Praise isn't something we should just do when we feel like it either. The Bible says that we must make a sacrifice of praise, meaning that it must cost us something. It costs us to glorify God when we really don't feel like it. Worship is not about us; it's all about God. Can we praise Him in the wilderness as well as in the land that is plentiful?
Worship, praise and thanksgiving
These three words relate a lot to three characteristics of God. In worship we relate to God's holiness. In thanksgiving we relate to God's goodness. In praise we relate to God's goodness. God is so incredibly good to us! God guards, guides, protects and provides for us and He deserves our praise.
Whatever our circumstances, it is good to give thanks to the Lord. If things are going well we can thank Him for His wonderful blessings to us. When trouble comes we need to remember that God is still there; He is still in control and He understands supports and strengthens us. It is good practise to look for something, even a small thing like a lovely day, a good meal or an unexpected call from a friend, and give thanks for it even in the midst of difficulties. A thankful attitude will lighten loads, remind us of God's faithfulness, and take our focus away from ourselves. When we remain in a thankful attitude we are open to hearing from God.
So get thanking, get praising, get worshipping and see how it lifts your spirit! God is good so get going!
...Mary