How can we apply the concept of "ordained praise" in our daily lives? Foundational verse “From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise, on account of Your adversaries, to silence the enemy and avenger.” – Psalm 8:2 What “ordained praise” means • “Ordained” points to something God intentionally sets in place. • Praise is not optional background noise; it is a divinely appointed weapon and witness. • Even the weakest voices (babies!) become instruments God uses to hush spiritual opposition. Why God treasures simple, constant praise • It magnifies His greatness in contrast to our smallness (Psalm 8:3-4). • It disarms pride; we acknowledge dependence, like children relying on a Father. • It silences the accuser (Revelation 12:10-11). • It ushers us into God’s felt presence, because He “is enthroned on the praises of Israel” (Psalm 22:3). Living out ordained praise throughout an ordinary day Morning • Begin by voicing a Scripture-based thank-you before checking a screen (Psalm 92:1-2). • Sing or speak a verse while getting ready—Psalm 103:1 is short enough for the mirror. With children (or those we disciple) • Read a short psalm aloud together; let little voices lead a line. • Turn school-run car time into a praise playlist session; discuss lyrics briefly. At work or school • Keep a verse card visible; when stress rises, whisper it back to God (Philippians 4:4-7). • Celebrate colleagues’ successes out loud, giving God credit for skills and outcomes (James 1:17). During hardship • Offer “a sacrifice of praise” when feelings lag (Hebrews 13:15); speak truth before emotion catches up. • List three past deliverances; thank God for each (Psalm 77:11-12). In everyday routines • Meal prep: recite Psalm 34:8; taste and thank. • Commute: turn off noise for one minute of spoken praise between songs or podcasts. • House chores: match repetitive motions (folding, sweeping) with repetitive praise phrases (“His love endures forever,” Psalm 136). Corporate worship • Arrive early enough to greet others; shared joy multiplies praise (Colossians 3:16). • Sing heartily, remembering God ordains these gathered voices to push back darkness locally. Guardrails to sustain ordained praise • Stay in the Word daily; praise flows naturally from fresh revelation (Psalm 119:171). • Reject complaining as quickly as you would swat a wasp (Philippians 2:14-16). • Surround yourself with praise-saturated music and friendships (Proverbs 27:17). • End each day recalling one evidence of God’s faithfulness; speak it aloud before sleep (1 Thessalonians 5:18). When praise becomes the rhythm of life, God fulfills His promise: the enemy’s voice is muted, and His own glory rings louder than ever. |
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