In what ways does Psalm 45:1 connect to other scriptures about praising God? A Stirred Heart and Ready Tongue—Psalm 45:1 “My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses to the King; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.” Overflowing Worship Starts in the Heart • Psalm 45:1 shows praise rising from an inner “stirring.” • Scripture often links heartfelt joy with praise: – Psalm 28:7 “Therefore my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him.” – Psalm 103:1 “Bless the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being bless His holy name.” – Luke 6:45 “Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” • Genuine praise is never mechanical; it springs from a moved heart that has tasted God’s goodness. The Tongue as a Skilled Pen • The psalmist’s tongue becomes a writing instrument—word-craft in God’s honor. • Similar connections: – Psalm 119:172 “My tongue sings of Your word, for all Your commandments are righteous.” – Hebrews 13:15 “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” – Malachi 3:16 “Those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard.” • Artful, thoughtful words matter; they display God’s worth to listeners and readers alike. A Love Song for the King • Psalm 45 is “a love song,” ultimately pointing to Christ the eternal King (Hebrews 1:8–9 cites this psalm). • Other passages celebrate the King with worship: – Psalm 47:6–7 “Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King…” – Revelation 19:16 “He has a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” – 1 Timothy 1:17 “To the King eternal, immortal, invisible… be honor and glory forever.” • Praise that delights in Christ’s royal majesty fulfills the intent of Psalm 45’s opening line. Skillful Excellence in Praise • “A skillful writer” underscores giving God our best. • Other calls to excellence: – Psalm 33:3 “Play skillfully with a shout of joy.” – 1 Chronicles 25:7 “They were trained and skillful in songs for the LORD.” – Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Musical ability, poetic craft, graphic design, or any creative gift can be honed for God’s glory. An Ongoing Lifestyle of Praise • The psalmist speaks in the present: his heart “is stirred,” his tongue “is” a pen. • Scripture urges continual praise: – Psalm 34:1 “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” – Psalm 71:8 “My mouth is filled with Your praise and with Your splendor all day long.” – Ephesians 5:19–20 “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs… giving thanks to God the Father at all times.” • Praise is not confined to corporate worship; it can color every ordinary moment. Key Takeaways for Today • Let God’s truth warm your heart first; praise flows naturally afterward. • Craft words thoughtfully—whether spoken, written, sung, or posted online—so they communicate the King’s beauty. • Aim for excellence; skill honors the One who gives gifts. • Keep praise continual; let everyday conversations echo the noble theme that stirred the psalmist’s heart. |
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