Implement Praise
Now that we’ve discussed how NOT to use our words — by making false, negative, pessimistic, critical, and cruel comments — let’s cover the most positive, fruitful, and constructive use of human speech. It’s the secret weapon of all people of faith, but of dreamers and creators especially. It’s the supernatural practice of praising and worshipping God.
By “praising and worshipping” God we mean: glorifying or exalting Him in word or song; giving thanks; honoring and adoring; and reverencing God. We describe the practice as “super-natural” for several reasons. Here are a few of the BIG ones:
- Praise “clears the air.” Previously we described “words of death” as
spiritual air pollution. It’s toxic, and certainly not conducive to dreams and creativity. Praise puts our focus on the goodness of God — not on our problems. Hence, it has a refreshing, cleansing affect, for both the speaker and those who hear. “Because Your gracious love is better than life itself, my lips will praise You.” (Psalm 66:3 ISV)
When you find yourself whining about a missed opportunity or an unfair situation; complaining about a neighbor or a coworker; or griping about the traffic or long lines at the checkout, start praising God — instead of grumbling. As a result, you’ll begin to feel better almost immediately. Why? Because …
- Praise creates an inviting spiritual environment that’s attracts and welcomes the Creator of the Universe. In fact, the Biblical King David wrote that God inhabits (or dwells in) the praises of His people. (Psalm 22:3) Having the “full-strength” presence of God that close has several benefits:
• Joy: “…In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11 ESV)
• Comfort: “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. …Let him sing praise.” (James 5:13 ESV)
• Strength: “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”
• Encouragement (and relief from depression): “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” (Psalm 42:11 KJB)
• Peace: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. …The Lord is at hand [present]; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7 ESV)
• Perspective: “Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.” (Psalm 63:3 ESV)
JOIN US TOMORROW FOR PART 2: DO THE RIGHT THING