How does praising God impact your relationship with Him and others? Scriptural Foundation: Psalm 71:8 “My mouth is filled with Your praise and with Your splendor all day long.” Praise Deepens Your Union with God • Praise keeps your eyes on who God is, not on who you are. – Psalm 34:1 “His praise will always be on my lips.” • Praise invites His presence in a tangible way. – Psalm 22:3 “You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” • Praise renews confidence in His faithfulness. – Hebrews 13:15 “Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.” • Praise turns anxious thoughts into peace. – Philippians 4:6-7 “By prayer and petition, with thanksgiving… the peace of God… will guard your hearts.” Praise Shapes How You Treat People • Grateful lips cultivate gracious conversation. – Colossians 3:16 “Singing… with gratitude in your hearts to God.” • Praising God together strengthens unity. – Ephesians 5:19 “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” • A heart rehearsing God’s goodness naturally overflows in encouragement instead of criticism. • Public praise becomes a testimony, pointing others to the Source of joy. – Psalm 40:3 “Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” Keeping Your Mouth Filled with Praise—Daily Practices 1. Start mornings by reading a psalm aloud—let God set the tone before anyone else does. 2. Replace complaints with thanks on the spot; even a whispered “Lord, thank You” shifts the atmosphere. 3. Sing along to worship music during ordinary tasks—dishes, driving, yard work. 4. Keep a running list of answered prayers and mercies; review it when discouragement creeps in. 5. Share one specific praise with family or friends each day; invite them to do the same. Takeaways to Carry Forward • Consistent praise keeps fellowship with God vibrant and intimate. • A mouth full of praise becomes a conduit of grace to everyone around you. • The more you practice praise, the more natural it feels—until, like the psalmist, it really does fill your mouth “all day long.” |