Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, bowed down before the Lord in fasting and prayer. As related in 2 Chronicles 20, a great multitude of Judah’s enemies was gathering to come against Jehoshaphat in battle. In fear, knowing his people were incapable in their own strength of overcoming the enemy, he cried out to God. “O LORD God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?… We have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.” The Lord responded: “Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s.… Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD.”Read more
I will lift up my hands in thy name. — Psalm 63:4
It has been a long practice of God’s people from the Old to the New Testament to lift their hands in supplication and praise to the Lord. In prayer, it shows a humility and neediness to the giver of all things and the hands are extended as a show of entreaty and request from the Lord. In praise, it is a show of honor and homage to our Savior and Heavenly Father.
When the songs of Zion are being sung, lifted hands in the air signify praise and honor to the Lord. It can be a sign of affirmation or signify a prayer of neediness and desire for more of what is being sung or spoken.
Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. — Psalm 63:3
The topic this quarter deals with the subject of praise. While it is a command, giving God praise is a privilege and an honor. God has done so much for us, how can we not return and exalt Him with the fruit of our mouth? Our hearts should be full of praise even in times of difficulty, and our lips should praise the Lord.Read more
Scripture Reading: Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing….Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
—Psalm 100:1-2, 4
Definition: Giving praise is the act of expressing approval, admiration, or commendation. It is worship though word or song that glorifies and honors.
Summary: God is worthy of praise and adoration. It is not only the duty but also the privilege of His people to exalt Him at all times with praise in word and in song. True praise is not of the flesh but flows from the spirit and from a life of holiness. There is power in praise and it opens the gates to the presence and blessings of God.Read more
