An Experience in Praising God

When we’re in despair or feeling anxious, praise is actually therapeutic. It transforms our perspective because it sets our spiritual sights on God.

Thanks to the Airdrie Alliance women who invited me to speak at their annual Renovare conference this weekend. Wonderful women, sweet fellowship, heartfelt worship, and together-time in God’s Word. Need I say more?

Our last session ended with a corporate praise time. Most often, it seems, we bring requests and concerns to God. That’s okay, especially since God encourages us to pour out our hearts to Him. But He also commands us to praise Him—to honor Him for who He is. And so, that’s what we did.

Popcorn-style, one woman and then the next and the next and the next praised God…

“We praise You for Your unfailing love toward us.”

“We praise You for Your faithfulness no matter what.”

“We praise You for being the bread of life.”

“We praise You for being the living water that quenches our thirst.”

“We praise You for being our Shepherd.”

The outpouring continued for several minutes. It was a beautiful time. A time to take our focus off ourselves and our circumstances and place it on God and His character.

Doing this applied Psalm 68:3-4:

“But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy. Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds. His name is the LORD—rejoice in his presence!”

Praise refocused and encouraged us

Putting this command into practice bolstered our courage by reminding us that God is bigger than anything we face today or will face in days to come. He’s all-wise, all-powerful, and all-sovereign. There’s nothing He cannot do on our behalf. With Him on our side, why should we feel afraid?

When we’re in despair or feeling anxious, praise is actually therapeutic. It transforms our perspective because it sets our spiritual sights on God and His love, faithfulness, and power. We become more aware of His holiness and His mercy on us. We become empowered as we remember that His power dwells within us through the person of the Holy Spirit.

Today, I encourage you to praise God for who He is. Here’s a video to get you started. Enjoy!