How can we emulate the shepherds' glorifying and praising God in our lives? Luke 2:20 — The Shepherds’ Response “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” What the Shepherds Actually Did • Returned to ordinary life—yet with extraordinary worship • Focused on God’s faithfulness: “just as they had been told” • Gave God public glory and heartfelt praise, not mere private gratitude Key Attitudes to Imitate • Wonder – childlike awe at fulfilled promises (Psalm 126:3) • Trust – confidence that every word of God proves true (Proverbs 30:5) • Joy – rejoicing always, as later commanded in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 • Humility – they were simple laborers, yet God chose them (James 4:6) Practical Ways to Glorify and Praise God Today Daily Rhythm • Begin and end each day naming specific works of God you “have heard and seen.” • Read Scripture aloud—let truth fuel spontaneous praise (Colossians 3:16-17). • Sing while you work; shepherds praised as they returned to their flocks (Psalm 34:1). Public Witness • Share answered prayers and gospel truths in everyday conversations (Psalm 96:2-3). • Use social media to exalt Christ rather than self. • Serve others so that “they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16). Corporate Worship • Arrive expectant, ready to testify of God’s acts during the week (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Engage fully—voice lifted, heart engaged, body responsive (Psalm 95:1-2). Gratitude in the Mundane • Thank God for routine tasks—commuting, dishes, spreadsheets (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Celebrate small mercies: a sunrise, a warm meal, a kind word (Lamentations 3:22-23). Maintaining a Shepherd-Style Lifestyle of Worship • Review God’s past faithfulness; keep a written record (Psalm 103:2). • Memorize promises to recall “just as they had been told” in moments of doubt. • Surround yourself with fellow praise-givers; enthusiasm is contagious (Hebrews 13:15). • Keep eyes open for fresh “things heard and seen,” then respond immediately with glory to God. |
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