Praise opens our eyes and ears to God. When we focus on the Lord in praise, we're much more likely to hear God's commands. That Truth helps explain why praise is often so difficult for us: Praise demands that we make changes in our lives, and most of us don't welcome the prospect of change. Sometimes the change God commands will require us to confess and repent of a sin and to make adjustments in how we live, especially in how we think of and relate to others. Sometimes God's command compels us to move to a deeper level of commitment or to move out in a closer walk of faith. Whatever He wants to tell us, it will be easier to hear Him clearly when we're praising Him.
When we focus on the Lord in praise, we're much more likely to hear God's commands.
For some, it may be difficult to begin a lifestyle of praise if you haven't been engaging in one already. You may argue that there are times when you just don't feel like praising God. And true, you may begin praising Him without having a completely thankful heart. But once you start praising God, it doesn't take long before that negative spirit is broken.
I have seen this happen over and over again in my own life. No matter how bleak or sad my circumstances, I am uplifted as I praise the Lord. As I honor God for who He is and for the glorious things He has done, my eyes are opened to God's abundant provision and blessing.
Once you begin looking for reasons to praise God, you will be overwhelmed by just how good God is. You will become excited about praising God. You will look forward to praising God. It will become a natural part of your daily life.
Praise: God, help me to develop a lifestyle of praise. I want to be changed as I praise You. May my eyes and ears be open to receive Your will, and may I submit in utter joy. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples" (Psalm 96:2-3).
Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon Empowered by Praise, Part 1: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW
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