Five Eternal Gifts from God - Praise 2

Praising God is one of, and should be, the most basic characteristic of biblical devotion to God. It occurs as early as the Song of Moses (Exodus 15). The Psalms offer many examples of praise given to God for not only who He is, but also for what He has done, is doing and will do.

Praising God is viewed as a sacrifice or offering (Hebrews 13:15) along with being a continual duty and privilege (I Thessalonians 5:16). The New Testament hymns focus upon the redemption in Christ (Luke 1:46-55; 68-79; Ephesians 1:3-14; Colossians 1:18-20; Revelation 5:1-14; 7:1-12). Christians are encouraged to make their whole lives and conduct a form of praise to God (Ephesians 1:12; Philippians 1:11; 4:8; I Peter 1:1-7; 2:1-9).

It is with this perspective that we view the gift of praising God as demonstrated by none other than King David himself as recorded in I Chronicles 29. The context of I Chronicles 29 is the collection of offerings for the construction of the Temple. King David called for consecrated giving for the project (28:1). David gave his own personal fortune for the funding of the construction. (29:1-5).

The people of Israel responded willingly (vs. 6-8). The text says that the people rejoiced. “Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly. (1 Chronicles 29:9, ESV)

What followed was a prayer of praise. The prayer was spoken by King David. As indicated, it is a prayer of praise. Very little is requested. Much is spoken regarding the praise and honor that should be and must be given to God who owns everything.

At this momentous occasion in Israel’s history, David praises God. It is praise for God’s Glory. “Therefore David blessed the Lord in the presence of all the assembly. And David said: “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of Israel our father, forever and ever. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.” (I Chronicles 29:10-13, ESV).