Praise. There are several definitions of the word praise, depending on where you look for it and the context. You can look it up in a dictionary, even go deeper and find the root of the word, but to me, the simple definition is “an action, a feeling, an emotion.”

I was not familiar with this word until I became an adult and learned about it in church when I began my walk with Jesus. In my adulthood, I came to know the Lord and then began to read and study the Bible right away. I was hungry for His Scripture, but did not quite understand the language or the church lingo. So, there was a time when I felt frustrated because I didn’t understand what others were talking about. English is not my first language, so I kept blaming it on that. 

Mostly, I spent a lot of time studying and looking for tools to help me. Early on, I remember one of my Bible teachers saying, “It is awesome that you want to learn from devotionals and teachers, learning tools, podcasts, and even pastors in your church, but the ultimate teacher will be the Holy Spirit, through God’s Word. Trust, but verify!” 

She was right. It took me a while to find my way to studying, understanding, and applying God’s Word to my life. Yes, it takes time, but it is so worth it. Praise the Lord!

If you are new to following Jesus, I hope my experience encourages you. Asking the Holy Spirit to guide my reading time is like removing a veil from my eyes. When I study Scripture, I begin to understand more—and even feel God’s presence right there in His Word!

Praise the Lord! The word praise now has a real meaning every time I hear, read, or say it. The Holy Spirit has given me a deep understanding of that term. To me, praise is the action that comes every time I feel grateful, lift my arms, sing, smile, cry, work hard, or obey. Praise becomes the byproduct of a feeling of gratitude under any circumstances. Praise is power!

May the praise of God be in their mouths, and a double-edged sword in their hands. (Psalm 149:6 NIV)

I love how Psalms 148-150 instruct us in such a simple way to praise the Lord. I invite you to spend some time on these passages. Praise the Lord as you read, line by line. Let His Word pour over you. You will feel it.

For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory. Let his faithful people rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds (Psalm 149:4-5).

Go for a walk, use your audio Bible, and look around you. Praise the Lord as you watch His wonderful creation.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord (Psalm 150:6).

Praise the Lord! Sing! Rejoice! Scream and shout His glorious name!

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Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New International Version^®, NIV^® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.^® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.