Praise

The psalms that were read as part of the Passover celebration are reminders of the lessons God wanted His people to learn from their exodus from Egypt. The principles that He wanted them to remember and apply in their lives. The truths that He wanted them to celebrate each year.

It was no accident that Psalm 117 was one of these “Passover Psalms.” This psalm has a message that could not have been clearer. For this psalm is powerfully brief. And its message was so simple that anyone can learn it. It was a message that can be repeated endlessly. A message that is true for every person, in every situation, in every era.

The message was simply to remember to praise the Lord. That everyone was to praise Him. We praise Him because “His lovingkindness is great toward us” and His truth “is everlasting.”

Praise isn’t just for some. For the rich and powerful. For the successful. We aren’t to praise Him just when we feel good or when things seem to be going right. When we are successful. No. We are to “bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1).

This was an important message as His people celebrated Passover in the past. And it is an important message today. Praise changes our focus.

Instead of thinking about ourselves, we think about God.

Instead of being overwhelmed by problems, we become overwhelmed with His presence.

Instead of focusing on our adversaries, we focus on Him and the greatness of His power.

Instead of feeling alone and helpless, praise reminds us that He is with us in every situation, and that nothing is impossible for Him.

Instead of being discouraged, praise gives us reasons to celebrate.

Fill your life with praise! Worship Him.