Starting the day with praise is a practice deeply rooted in biblical tradition, reflecting a heart posture of gratitude and reverence towards God. This practice is seen throughout Scripture as a means of aligning oneself with God's will, acknowledging His sovereignty, and inviting His presence into the day ahead.

Biblical Foundation

The Psalms, often referred to as the prayer book of the Bible, provide numerous examples of beginning the day with praise. Psalm 5:3 states, "In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice; at daybreak I lay my plea before You and wait in expectation." This verse highlights the importance of seeking God early in the day, setting a tone of expectation and reliance on Him.

Psalm 59:16 further emphasizes this practice: "But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning. For You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Here, the psalmist expresses a commitment to declare God's attributes and faithfulness at the start of the day, recognizing Him as a source of strength and protection.

Old Testament Examples

The practice of morning praise is not limited to the Psalms. In the Old Testament, figures such as Moses and David exemplify this discipline. Exodus 15:1-2 records the song of Moses and the Israelites after crossing the Red Sea, a song of praise that likely began their day with a focus on God's deliverance and power.

David, known as a man after God's own heart, frequently began his day with praise. In 1 Chronicles 23:30, the Levites are instructed to "stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise in the evening." This directive underscores the importance of regular, daily praise as part of worship and devotion.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself provides a model for starting the day with communion with the Father. Mark 1:35 notes, "Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up and slipped out to a solitary place to pray." While this verse specifically mentions prayer, it implies a time of intimate fellowship with God, which naturally includes praise.

The Apostle Paul also encourages believers to maintain a posture of praise. In Philippians 4:4 , he writes, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This exhortation to constant rejoicing suggests that praise should be a continual part of a believer's life, beginning each day with joy in the Lord.

Spiritual Benefits

Starting the day with praise offers numerous spiritual benefits. It helps believers focus on God's character and promises, fostering a sense of peace and trust. Praise shifts attention from personal concerns to God's greatness, cultivating a heart of gratitude and humility.

Moreover, beginning the day with praise can set a positive tone for the entire day, influencing one's attitude and interactions with others. It serves as a reminder of God's presence and provision, encouraging believers to walk in faith and obedience.

Practical Application

To incorporate praise into the start of the day, believers might consider setting aside time for reading Scripture, singing hymns or worship songs, and offering prayers of thanksgiving. Journaling about God's attributes and past faithfulness can also be a meaningful way to engage in morning praise.

Incorporating praise into daily routines, such as during a morning walk or commute, can further integrate this practice into everyday life. By intentionally starting the day with praise, believers can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and a more joyful, centered approach to life.