Praising is praying in that we tell God how great he is, and ask Him to glorify in us his name. This creates in us awareness of his majesty and authority, resulting in humble dependence on his sovereign will.

We usually think praise is singing to the Lord with songs, music and words, combined as hymns, or praise and worship. Indeed, the Psalms are set to musical tunes and instruments were utilized in praise.

Then David spoke to the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers accompanied by instruments of music, stringed instruments, harps, and cymbals, by raising the voice with resounding joy. 1 Chronicles 15:16

Many churches sing from a hymnal during services, and we’ve grown used to “praise and worship music.”

But praise does not always need to be combined with music. Sometimes, often really, it is the overflow of our heart to Him. Perhaps in the car, or just coming home from work, or after the kids are asleep, it can hit us. After a trying time or difficulty, and we get relief, grace, healing or an answered prayer, we might utter a heartfelt “Praise the Lord!”

There are times during a prayer meeting we are undone by a greater awareness of Who He is, and what He has done for us, in us, and with us. This usually prompts our praise as we recognize this back to Him. Or, we see something in the Scriptures which hits us like lightning and we stop and praise for this fresh understanding, this realization of Truth anew.

Praise is our declaring the greatness of God to God himself.

And we praise Him for He is worthy of our praise! He inhabits the praises of His people, and we will forever give Him the glory due His name, joining the angels who sing now ‘round His throne.

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