How does Psalm 135:20 encourage us to bless the Lord daily? Setting the Scene Psalm 135 is a celebration of God’s matchless greatness; verse 20 zeroes in on the response that should arise from every heart: “O house of Levi, bless the LORD; you who fear the LORD, bless the LORD!”. The call is not occasional—it’s continual, woven into the rhythm of daily life. Seeing the Command Clearly • “Bless the LORD” is an imperative, not a suggestion. • The verb bless (Hebrew bāraḵ) means to kneel in adoration, to praise with gratitude and reverence. • The invitation is extended to “the house of Levi” (priests) and to “all who fear the LORD” (every believer), underscoring that daily blessing is the privilege of every follower. A Daily Habit of Praise Psalm 135:20 encourages daily blessing because: 1. God’s character is unchanging; He is as worthy today as He was yesterday (Malachi 3:6). 2. His mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23); fresh mercies invite fresh praise. 3. Continuous praise guards the heart from spiritual stagnation (Hebrews 13:15). Reasons to Bless the LORD Every Day • His greatness: “For I know that the LORD is great” (Psalm 135:5). • His sovereign acts: “Whatever the LORD pleases, He does” (Psalm 135:6). • His covenant love: “He will vindicate His people and have compassion on His servants” (Psalm 135:14). • His enduring name: “Your name, O LORD, endures forever” (Psalm 135:13). Practical Ways to Live This Out 1. Begin mornings with a spoken blessing—“Bless the LORD, O my soul” (Psalm 103:1). 2. Keep a gratitude list; add at least one item daily. 3. Sing or play worship music during routine tasks (Colossians 3:16). 4. Turn worries into blessings: as needs arise, thank God for His promised provision (Philippians 4:6-7). 5. Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness with family and friends (Psalm 145:4). Linked Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • Psalm 34:1: “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” • Psalm 96:2: “Proclaim His salvation day after day.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in every circumstance.” Each passage reinforces that daily blessing is the normal, joyful rhythm of redeemed life. Closing Encouragement Psalm 135:20 invites every believer—priest or layperson, young or old—to step into a lifestyle saturated with praise. As we obey, our days are reoriented around God’s glory, our hearts are refreshed, and our witness shines brightly to a watching world. |