How can we apply "greatly to be praised" in our worship practices today? Setting the Scriptural Foundation “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, His holy mountain.” (Psalm 48:1) What “Greatly to Be Praised” Means • The command is not merely to praise, but to praise greatly—lavishly, wholeheartedly, unrestrained. • God’s greatness determines the scale of our response; His character sets the bar. Compare: • Psalm 145:3 — “Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; His greatness is unsearchable.” • Psalm 96:4 — “For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.” Practical Ways to Reflect This in Corporate Worship • Song selection: choose lyrics rich in God’s attributes—holiness, sovereignty, mercy—so the congregation’s praise matches His greatness. • Volume and enthusiasm: encourage voices lifted fully, instruments played skillfully (Psalm 33:3). • Testimonies of God’s works: brief, prepared stories that magnify what He has done, echoing Psalm 66:16. • Scripture readings: read aloud passages that highlight His majesty (e.g., Isaiah 6:1-3), letting His own words stir great praise. • Physical expression: invite biblical postures—standing, kneeling, raised hands (Psalm 134:2)—as outward signs of inward awe. Living It Out in Personal Devotion • Begin daily prayer with adoration before petitions, following the pattern of Matthew 6:9-10. • Keep a “greatness journal”: record answered prayers, providences, and attributes discovered in Scripture. • Sing or speak Psalms aloud; they tutor the heart to praise greatly (Colossians 3:16). • Memorize short doxologies (Romans 11:36) and recite them during routine moments—driving, chores, exercise. Guarding Against Half-Hearted Praise • Recognize distractions as rivals for God’s glory (Isaiah 42:8). • Confess when praise becomes mechanical; seek renewal through fresh meditation on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). • Avoid entertainment-centered worship that spotlights performers over the Savior (John 3:30). Encouragement to Keep Praising • God’s greatness is inexhaustible; therefore, our praise can keep expanding (Ephesians 3:20-21). • The more we know Him through Scripture, the more naturally “greatly” flows from our lips (Jeremiah 9:23-24). • Heaven itself models unending, wholehearted praise (Revelation 4:8); every gathering now is rehearsal for eternity. |
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