Psalm 103:1-5
“Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercies, who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
What constitutes authentic praise? You see a picture of a congregation of people with their hands raised, eyes closed, heads looking to the heavens, with a look of rapture on their face. Is this authentic praise? Possibly yes—possibly no.
Visualize another scene of a couple standing silently in a cemetery as they gazed down at the casket holding the lifeless body of their baby girl. Is this worship? Possibly yes—possibly no. How about a lone man with his head between his knees shaking with uncontrollable sobs? Possibly yes—possibly no.
Unfortunately, I have observed that praise can be orchestrated. There are leaders who will go to great lengths developing formats that, while they may appear to be spiritual, are more of the flesh. It is almost like there is a competition to see who shows the most praise.
Let me cut to the chase. I believe that true and authentic praise takes me out of the picture. It is God directed and not what makes me feel good, but choosing to give praise to the God of the universe who stands near me at all times. I praise Him for giving me far more than I deserve. PRAISE YOU LORD!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil
360-570-0074
PastorCecil@Daily-E-Votional.com
P.S. – You can find previous E-Votionals covering a variety of Scriptures and topics to help you in your walk with the Lord at www.Daily-E-Votional.com.
P.P.S. – I have completed my first book, 100 of Pastor Cecil’s Select Illustrations. The cost is $12.95 plus shipping. You can now order it online by going to https://dailyevotional.com/prior2020/book-by-pastor-cecil . . . You may want to consider this book as a thoughtful gift idea for those who do not have Internet access or as helpful sermon illustrations for your Pastor.
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