Praise is not just an action; it is a deliberate strategy—a purposeful plan for achieving a divine goal during uncertain times. Worship aligns us with the heart of God, empowering us to glorify Him no matter the circumstances. Just as the sun’s rays draw water from the ocean to form clouds that give rain, our praises ascend to invite God’s blessings to descend. Psalm 150 encapsulates this strategy of worship with its opening command: “Praise ye the Lord!” (Psalm 150:1). This is not a suggestion or an optional act; it is a call to action, urging us to engage in intentional, strategic worship that encompasses every part of our being.
The command to “praise the Lord” addresses who we are as worshippers, the what of our worship, the when and where of our praise, the why we glorify Him, and ultimately how we offer it. The “who” is clear—it is you, the worshipper, called to actively praise the Lord. Whether through a declarative statement (“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” – Psalm 34:1), an interrogative reflection (“Will you praise the Lord?”), or an imperative command (“Praise ye the Lord!” – Psalm 150:1), the directive is personal and corporate, emphasizing that all creation is called to exalt His name.
The “what” of praise focuses on the Lord Himself—Yahweh, the self-existent, eternal God. His name is not just His identity but also His character and performance. He was, He is, and He will be (Exodus 3:14). As Jehovah Jireh, He is the God who provides, not just in the past or the future, but right now (“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” – Philippians 4:19). This truth compels us to lift Him up in praise, for His name reflects both who He is and what He does.
The “when” of praise is simple: at all times. Scripture tells us, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1). Praise is not confined to moments of joy or victory; it is constant, transcending circumstances. Every second, minute, hour, and day is an opportunity to exalt Him. Even our very breath is an act of worship, testifying to the One who sustains our lives: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150:6).
The “where” of praise is everywhere—both inside and outside the sanctuary. Psalm 150 instructs us to “praise Him in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens” (Psalm 150:1). While we can and should worship God wherever we are, we must not neglect gathering with the saints in His holy place: “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). The sanctuary represents a sacred space where believers come together, united in purpose, to experience God’s presence. It is here, among the sanctified, that chains are broken and lives are transformed: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17).
The “why” of praise flows from God’s mighty acts and His excellent greatness. His works speak of His power, provision, and protection, while His greatness reflects His unmatched character. Have you experienced His healing, deliverance, or provision? Have you witnessed His hand guiding you through life’s darkest valleys? Then you have every reason to praise Him. As the psalmist declares, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction” (Psalm 103:2-4).
Finally, the “how” of praise encompasses every part of us—our voices, our actions, and even our instruments. Psalm 150 invites us to use everything at our disposal to glorify God: “Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the lute and harp! Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes! Praise Him with loud cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals!” (Psalm 150:3-5). Whether through song, dance, or simply lifting our hands in worship, our praise should reflect the excellence of His greatness. As long as we are breathing, we are called to praise Him with all that we are.
In conclusion, praise is not random; it is intentional. It is a strategic act of worship that answers the essential questions of who, what, when, where, why, and how. It calls us to engage fully with our Creator, aligning our hearts with His will. Like the mist rising from the ocean to form clouds that bring rain, let our praises ascend to the heavens, returning as blessings that overflow in our lives. So, as long as you are breathing, let every breath and every moment declare His glory. “Praise ye the Lord!” (Psalm 150:1).
Assessment of My Intentionality
Examining the strategic elements of praise—Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How—has helped me evaluate the intentionality of my worship:
- Who: Am I actively engaging in personal and corporate worship? Am I fully present in those moments, or am I distracted by other things?
- What: Do I focus on praising God for who He is and what He does, or do I sometimes limit my praise to what I perceive He has done for me?
- When: Have I been consistent in praising God at all times, or have I allowed my praise to be sporadic, depending on my mood or circumstances?
- Where: Do I prioritize worship in the sanctuary, gathering with other believers, as well as in my private moments?
- Why: Am I conscious of the reasons for my praise, reflecting on His mighty acts and excellent greatness?
- How: Do I use all the resources God has given me—my voice, my actions, my talents, and even my trials—to glorify Him fully?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for the breath in my body and the opportunity to praise You. Forgive me for the times I have withheld my worship or allowed circumstances to distract me. Help me to bless You at all times and in all places. Let my life be a reflection of Your glory. Teach me to worship You in spirit and in truth, with intentionality and reverence. As long as I am breathing, I will praise Your name. Amen.