VERSE FOR TODAY: Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion; declare among the people's His deeds (Psalm 9:11, New American Standard Bible).
HYMN FIR TODAY: "Praise Him! Praise Him!"
Praise is an expression not only of our appreciation, but of our understanding of the worth of the person being praised. Therefore it is imperative that praise be genuine and not hollow. In many years of working with children, I have learned to look for the things they are doing well, so that when I give praise they will recognize their worth. I don't want to look into the eyes of a child and see a lack of trust because I have given superficial praise. Hollow praise is detrimental, but genuine praise is valued.
Our praise to God must show those around us that we recognize His worth. It is hollow to praise God on Sunday, but live in such a way that our friends and co-workers never see our faith. A part of genuine praise is with sing to others of God's love and grace. When we do this often, our own vision of the greatness of God expands and our faith deepens.
Psalm 9 is one of Thanksgiving by David for God's justice, probably written after a victory over the Philistines, the heathen enemies that often troubled Israel. It affirms that God never ignores our cries for help it urged us to appreciate His worth and praise Him before men.
PRAYER THOUGHTS: Father, we praise You for Your power, grace, and love. May our praise to You abound not only in formal worship and prayer, but also in our witnessing to others. Thank You for Your Word and the many examples it provides to aid us along the path of life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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