What does it mean to praise God?

Answer

Christians frequently talk about “praising God,” and the Bible instructs all living beings to praise the Lord «Let everything that has breath Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.», (Psalm 150:6). One Hebrew term for “praise” is yadah, which means “praise, give thanks, or confess.” Another term often translated as “praise” in the Old Testament is zamar, meaning “sing praise.” A third term translated as “praise” is halal (the root of hallelujah), which means “to praise, honor, or commend.” All three terms convey the idea of expressing gratitude and honor to someone deserving of praise.

The book of Psalms is a compilation of songs brimming with praises to God. Among them is Psalm 9, which declares, “I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High” (verse 2). Psalm 18:3 states that God is “worthy of praise.” Psalm 21:13 praises God for both who He is and His great power: “Be exalted in your strength, LORD; we will sing and praise your might.”

Psalm 150 mentions the term “praise” thirteen times in six verses. The initial verse indicates the “where” of praise—everywhere! “Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.”

– The following verse explains the “why” of praising the Lord: “Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.”

– Verses 3–6 describe the “how” of praising the Lord—with a variety of instruments, dance, and everything that has breath. Every means we possess to create sound should be utilized to praise the Lord!

In the New Testament, there are instances of praise directed towards Jesus. Matthew 21:16 mentions those who praised Jesus as He rode a donkey into Jerusalem. Matthew 8:2 recounts a leper who bowed before Jesus. In Matthew 28:17, Jesus’ disciples were described as worshipping Him after His resurrection. Jesus accepted praise as God.

The early church frequently participated in times of praise.

For instance, the initial church in Jerusalem emphasized worship (Acts 2:42-43). The church leaders in Antioch prayed, worshipped, and fasted when Paul and Barnabas were commissioned for missionary work (Acts 13:1-5). Many of Paul’s epistles contain extensive sections praising the Lord (1 Timothy 3:14–16; Philippians 1:3–11).

At the end of time, all of God’s people will participate in eternal praise of God. “No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him” «And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: », (Revelation 22:3). With the curse of sin removed, those who are with the Lord will forever praise the King of kings in perfection. It has been said that our worship of God on earth is simply preparation for the celebration of praise that will take place in eternity with the Lord.