Thursday, May 19, 2011

Foundations

“But You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3)

Psalm 22 is a fascinating psalm, written centuries before the events described in it took place. This is widely viewed as a “Messianic psalm,” describing prophetically what happened at the crucifixion.

In the midst of all this psalm portrays, there is a raw gemstone, a gold nugget that produces a glowing image in our minds: “But You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.”

In your mind, see an image of a large gold throne, beautiful, shining, and very heavy. Such a throne requires a platform, a foundation capable of supporting it. The psalmist describes God as the One who is enthroned upon the praises of Israel. So, envision all the praises toward God from all of God’s people of all time, and see God exalted, high and lifted up, enthroned on all those praises simply because of who He is: the Holy Lord God, Creator of the universe.

Praising God is not just singing a song or praying a prayer or engaging in worship. It is certainly all of that, but it’s far more. Praise is also the living of a life committed to Him. Praise is relating positively to God in faith and trust regardless of circumstances. Praise embodies love toward God and trust in Him. Praise is the life of the redeemed, the very expression of what it means to be redeemed. And our God is worthy of all this praise because He is holy.

“Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus our blessed Redeemer! Strength and honor unto the Lord belong.” We praise Him just because of who He is. We enthrone Him in our hearts through our praise.

Lord, We praise You today, and we praise that our praise may be acceptable to You.

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