Praise changes the spiritual climate. When you’re in a bad mood, begin praising God. You’ll be amazed at how the atmosphere changes. When Paul and Silas were in prison, they praised God and an earthquake freed them (Acts 16.25). A downer turned into deliverance.
Praise fulfills your primary purpose as a created being. After Jesus performed miracles, the crowd began praising God. The Pharisees wanted to rebuke them, but Jesus said, “If these [people] become silent, the stones will cry out!” (Luke 19.40) It is primal for creation to praise the Creator. If you don’t, you’ll worship something else.
Praise empowers you to great deeds. After the Apostle Peter named Jesus as the Son of God, Peter moved in astonishing power (Matthew 16.16). His great exploits began after his declaration of praise. Praise empowers you to do the same things Peter did.
Praise restores your understanding to the right order. When things go wrong, they take control. The broken water softener gets the upper hand. The prodigal son becomes your obsession. But in reality, God is still on the throne. Praise puts things in the right perspective.
Praise reminds you of God’s presence in your life. In Psalm 22.1, David wrote, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Had God really forsaken David? No, but that’s how David felt. If you’re walking with God, He won’t forsake you. Praise reminds you that God is near.
Praise crucifies your pride. We tend to think of ourselves more highly than we ought. But praise humbles us. Hebrews 13.15 calls it a “sacrifice of praise.” Sacrifice always costs us. The Apostle Paul said he died daily (1 Cor. 15.31). Praise helps you die daily so God is raised.
Praise attracts God’s presence. When King Solomon dedicated the Temple to God, he offered sacrifices and praised God. God answered by sending fire from heaven. Then His Glory came (2 Chronicles 7). Praise attracts God’s presence. He is drawn to where He is welcomed.
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