Praise…it’s More Than a Name!

I believe names are more than a handle that turns us around, especially biblical names that identify or describe us. Many names have an inspiration or empowering aspect to their nature. Every time a name is mentioned, a corresponding action takes place in the sound. The sound speaks positively or negatively, building faith or crippling it, depending on the ear hearing.  Abram was changed to Abraham in order to build faith and change an image within. Jabez meant “pain”…thereby resulting in his prayer, “may I not cause pain”.

When the Lord inspired us to receive the name Praise, I couldn’t help feeling He desired a people who would do exactly that…Praise Him! He wanted a sound that would be expressed from the heart. People who couldn’t keep quiet…Jesus said if the children were to be hushed in His presence, the rocks would “cry out”!  One of my favorite worship songs today declares, “With my hands raised and my heart abandoned…” that describes this Praise.

Praise is to be a natural spiritual expression of a grateful heart.  Emotional, worked up, spiritual hype trying to get God to do something He really doesn’t want to do in the first place, is not what praise is about. The reason praise can seem awkward is, we haven’t seen it done, let alone expressed in church. Clap your hands…shout unto God…Really? It is the language of the Book of Psalms. Check it out.

Not only is Praise a design for proper spiritual protocol, it is a place that sets up His spiritual throne over our lives!

Psalm 22:3
3 But You are holy,
Enthroned in the praises of Israel.

Praise is an atmosphere for miracles…the Lord demonstrates His love for us.

I believe this is why miracles happen in worship! Headaches leave, habits break, love replaces hate, forgiveness is received and we leave knowing we are very special to Him.

Praise is a privilege that welcomes us, and gives us access to a most holy God. Praise permits His power to come into our lives and circumstances. What’s so amazing to me is this: come as you are no special dress or words that must be spoken. No membership required…Praise is totally user friendly, even kids can do it!

As you come into the Sanctuary, come with a heart of praise. After all that is said and done, He is Worthy!

Pastor Greg