“Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely” (Psalm 147:1).
This chapter speaks about the praise we ought to have for our God. It names some of the reasons we ought to praise the Lord. The writer mentions that God heals the broken in heart (147:3). That is worthy of praise. Last night a man came to me and confided that he was under a great burden over the loss of a loved one. Another man called recently to tell me of a burden he is bearing with the sickness of a loved one. What a thrill to know that we have a God who delights in healing the broken-hearted! He deserves praise for the work only He can do to mend our broken hearts.
The chapter speaks of the multitude of stars. Our God not only knows exactly how many there are (not even our most brilliant scientists can even guess at the number) God knows each by name (147:4). When my eyes lift to the heavens on a crystal clear evening, I am awestruck with the immensity of our universe. My Heavenly Father made all that, and each star is important to Him. He named them all! If this does not make you stop and praise Him as you look up, you are too busy! God deserves our praise as we consider the universe!
Praise continues when the writer considers the infinite power and wisdom God has in His very character (147:5). He then quickly reveals the attention that God gives to the meek that our wicked world may cast away or walk upon (147:6). For this reason God deserves our praise! The Bible constantly reveals to us that God honors humility, and that He desires meekness. Isn’t it interesting that the god of this world encourages the exact opposite? He promotes the idea of pride and arrogance. He encourages us to push our way to the “front of the line.” Our God delights Himself in the meek that love Him and serve Him. I want to praise Him for noticing those that many others pass by or ignore!
This entire chapter deals with things we can praise God for, but there is a very important verse that tells us clearly what God is impressed with when He is looking to praise someone. “The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy” (Psalm 147:11). While you are considering praising God today, consider further what brings joy and delight to His heart. Fear Him today. Seek His approval more than the approval of the men/women around you. Look for, and hope for His mercy today as you accurately view your sinfulness in comparison to Him. This is praise!