How can we bless the Lord like "house of Israel" in Psalm 135:19? Setting the Scene “House of Israel, bless the LORD!” (Psalm 135:19) Here the psalmist calls every Israelite to speak well of, praise, and exalt the covenant-keeping LORD. The command is as direct for God’s people today as it was then. What “Bless” Means - Hebrew barak: “to kneel, to praise, to speak words of exaltation.” - We add nothing to God’s perfection; we acknowledge it. - Blessing the Lord is both verbal (spoken or sung praise) and practical (obedient living). Why Israel Was Told to Bless Him - He “chose Jacob for Himself” (Psalm 135:4). - He “does whatever pleases Him” with unrivaled power (v. 6). - He redeemed them from Egypt and defeated mighty kings (vv. 8–12). - Remembering these mighty acts fuels heartfelt blessing. Practical Ways We Can Bless the Lord Today Celebrating His character - Declare aloud specific attributes: holiness (Isaiah 6:3), love (1 John 4:8), faithfulness (Lamentations 3:23). - Sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs (Colossians 3:16). Recounting His works - Speak testimonies of salvation and answered prayer (Psalm 66:16). - Read Scripture stories of deliverance and voice gratitude. Obedient living - Keep His commands (John 14:15). Obedience is praise in action. - Practice justice and mercy (Micah 6:8) as tangible worship. Continual gratitude - “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). - Replace complaint with thanksgiving (Psalm 34:1). Public proclamation - Bless Him “in the great assembly” (Psalm 35:18). - Speak well of the Lord before family, friends, and even skeptics (1 Peter 3:15). Sacrifice of praise - “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name” (Hebrews 13:15). - Praise when feelings lag; that costs something and honors Him. Generous giving - Present resources as worship (Proverbs 3:9). - Support gospel work joyfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). Examples to Imitate - David: “I will bless the LORD at all times” (Psalm 34:1). - Mary: “My soul magnifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46). - Early church: gathered “praising God” daily (Acts 2:46-47). Living a Life of Blessing Make blessing the Lord a rhythm: Morning—acknowledge His steadfast love (Psalm 92:1-2). Throughout the day—pause to whisper thanks (Psalm 119:164). Evening—recount His faithfulness (Psalm 63:6). When the house of Israel obeyed this call, the nations witnessed God’s glory. As we bless the Lord with the same devotion—by word, worship, and wholehearted obedience—we join that ancient chorus and display His greatness to the world. |
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