When someone does something good, we praise them. At least we should praise them. As kids, we get rewards and praise for correct behaviour. As adults, we get bonuses and accolades for a job well done. And there are those who seek praise (and often receive it) though they’ve done nothing to deserve it.

What about God?

Clap your hands, all peoples!
Shout to God with loud songs of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is to be feared,
a great king over all the earth.
He subdued peoples under us,
and nations under our feet.
He chose our heritage for us,
the pride of Jacob whom he loves.

God has gone up with a shout,
the Lord with the sound of a trumpet.
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
For God is the King of all the earth;
sing praises with a psalm!

Psalm 47:1-7 (ESV)

If we offer praise even to those who are undeserving, how much more should we offer praise to God? And I’m not talking about the twenty minutes you may sing on Sunday morning. I’m talking about all the time. You got out of bed this morning. Surely that is worth something. If you’re reading this, you have a device on which to read it and access to the internet. You’re prospering in some way. You’re literate. You’re ahead of the majority of the world’s population. What is that worth?

As you go through your day, focus on the blessings – all the reasons why God deserves praise. But don’t stop there. Praise God. Whether it’s in a whispered prayer or telling someone else, praise God.

Daily Bible reading: Psalm 47-49; Acts 26