Praising My Friend -- October 2, 2009

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
Sing praises on the harp to our God,
Who covers the heavens with clouds,
Who prepares rain for the earth,
Who makes grass to grow on the mountains.
He gives to the beast its food,
And to the young ravens that cry.
He does not delight in the strength of the horse;
He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man.
The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him,
In those who hope in His mercy.

Psalm 147:7-11

This is the second round of praise in this psalm. The first round praises God as Almighty and the Deliverer. The round that follows this one praises Him for the ongoing security that He gives to His people. He guards them from enemies and the devastation of natural disasters. He has given them children to carry on after they are gone. He has given them His word so that they will know what to do.

In this second round, we are taught to praise God on a personal level. We are to make music for Him because He is providing for us personally. Even the animals in the wild are His personal concern. The best part is that His personal connection with us is based on our attitude towards Him and not in our ability to use the strength of the world or on our ability to stand on our own two feet. His delight in us is based on our faith and respect for Him. He has close relationship with those who love Him. He is not looking for mighty soldiers to be on His side. He is looking for those who recognize that He is the power of the universe and who follow Him in obedience.

Lord Jesus, may all the praise of my life be for You. Forgive me for the times I have tried to stand on my own two feet instead of relying on You. Thank You for all Your Hand has provided in my life. I know that everything I have has been added to me by You.

Hoping In Your Mercy,

Pastor Jason