May 18, 2018: Why Praise God?
May 18, 2018
TODAY'S BIBLE READING:
Today’s Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 11-12, Psalm 111, Mark 14:43-52, Galatians 2 Psalm 111: Praising God is something that we know that we should do. After all, he is God so surely there must be a lot to praise. But we are not always as inclined to praise God as we would wish. Perhaps we do not feel “in the mood.” Or we cannot bring to mind enough sustainably credible reasons to praise God at a particular season in our lives—especially, perhaps, when we are facing suffering or difficulties. This psalm gives us 5 reasons to praise God. Here they are:
#1 His works are great. What God has done is simply amazing. Look at creation. Look at the Grand Canyon. Look at the butterfly. Wow!
#2 His providence is stunning. God provides for his people. We can go through tough times. We can face crises or depravation. But God comes through for his people. His providence is reliable. He will provide.
#3 He is completely reliable. What he says he will do, that he will do. What he promises will come about. You can rely upon God.
#4 He is a redeeming God. He does not treat us as our sins deserve but rescues and redeems. What good news is this! And what a reason to praise God!
#5 To honor, fear, and praise God gives us wisdom. We actually benefit from lifting God up in our praises and living lives of fear and respect and worship of God.
Would you praise God this morning?]]>
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Josh Moody (Ph.D., University of Cambridge) is the senior pastor of College Church in Wheaton, IL., president and founder of God Centered Life Ministries, and author of several books including How the Bible Can Change Your Life and John 1-12 For You.
WANT MORE?
To receive God Centered Life devotionals directly in your inbox, as well as other resources, enter your email address in the form at the bottom of this page and click "subscribe."