Psalm 103 musings

            I was journaling in the psalms this morning and thought I would take a moment to put some thoughts on my blog. As I began to read Psalm 103, I saw what I had written in the margin near the first verse: the word ‘praise’ means to ‘affectionately, gratefully praise’ the Lord. I realized that is really does make a difference to add those two descriptive words. They help us understand what true praise encompasses. Unfortunately, it is all too common for us to focus on and offer praises to God without affection or gratitude. But then, I wonder if praise is really praise without these two behaviors? Going through religious motions or activities without affection and gratitude to God strip away the heart of what praise is all about! It is all too easy for religious activity to replace heart relationship with God. Do we see that too many times in our times of corporate worship?

            What can I do to foster true praise in my life and to avoid and even eliminate the heartless, ungrateful praise in which I may sometimes engage? I am sure there are many ways to do this, but a few pop into my mind this morning. (1) Realize the possibility of engaging in empty, heartless, ungrateful praise. (2) Spend time in self-examination, repentance and confession before running into the presence of God. (3) Ask for His help in learning how to praise correctly. (4) Focus on truth, on Who He really is, how much He loves me, what He has done for me, etc. True gratitude will rise and love for Him will grow. (5) Learn that praise is different from thanksgiving, but realize that focusing on thanking God for all He has done for us helps stir up praise in our hearts for Who He is. (6)Stop  when you realize that gratitude and affection are missing from your praise and remedy the situation before you continue.

            These are just a few musings this morning. My attention has been peaked and my alertness heightened in the matter of guarding my heart against empty praise-activity!