Praise through Song

Read: Psalm 150
Listen: Psalm 150

This year in Beyond the Weekend, journey through different biblical models of prayer—one each month. January’s focus is Prayers of Praise.

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. Psalm 150:6

The book of Psalms contains a collection of prayers and songs from Israel’s deepest moments. The psalmists model praise and prayers through varying life circumstances—stinging betrayal (Psalm 55), gripping fear and anxiety (Psalm 27 & 46) and deep grief (Psalm 13). Psalm 150 erupts in a jubilant conclusion, calling God’s people to a fitting response: praise. Whether in seasons of plenty or want, God’s people are to slow down and give him praise. The psalmist links praise with singing and music, encouraging God’s people to lift their voices and praise the Lord with joyful sounds.

We, too, are called to praise God, whatever our circumstances. Whether we’re walking through betrayal, fear, anxiety, grief, or experiencing joy and abundance, praise connects us to God as we lift our voices in song. Music, prayer and praise intertwine in a powerful way. Our worship of God extends to all of life, but praising God through song offers a unique opportunity. Some of us are more musically inclined than others, which is okay. The calling is to lift our voices to the Lord in praise, regardless of talent. We do this as we gather as a church on weekends, and we also have this opportunity in private and with loved ones during the week.

TODAY: Take time to slow down and lift your voice to God in praise. Let the words of the song become your prayer to God. Consider singing “Praise the Lord” by Shane and Shane, a music version of Psalm 150. As you sing, reflect upon the goodness of God and “praise him for his surpassing greatness” (Psalm 150:2).