READING: Psalms 91-93, Romans 15:1-13
“It is good to praise Yahweh.”
Psalm 92:1
I still remember some of the first Christian songs I ever heard. I became a believer at age 13, and all of the music was new to me. I realize I’m dating myself, but here are some of the songs (of various styles) I remember: “Just as I Am.” “Amazing Grace.” “The Little Light of Mine.” “The Lighthouse.” “Leaning on the Everlasting Arms.” “Alleluia.” “At the Cross.” “Redeemed.” “How Great Thou Art.” “Deep and Wide.” The songs were all quite different, but all focused my attention on the One who had saved me.
In fact, I bought albums, 8-track tapes, and cassette tapes so I could sing all day long. I make no claim to sing well, but I assure you that I sang loudly. I grew to love any kind of music that helped me worship the Lord, including old hymns, simple choruses, cantata presentations, Christian “rock,” praise music, and gospel quartet songs. My openness to all styles of music helps me worship the Lord today, for I don’t worry much about style. I only want to praise Him.
I get the sense that the psalmist felt that way as well. Particularly as he celebrated the Sabbath, he loved honoring God through song: “It is good to praise Yahweh, to sing praise to Your name, Most High, to declare Your faithful love in the morning and Your faithfulness at night, with a ten-stringed harp and the music of a lyre” (Psalm 92:1-3). Like so many other psalms, this one again calls us to praise God because of His steadfast and faithful love for us. It is indeed good for us to begin the day by praising God and then end that day with echoes of praise again. Both our voices and our instruments should resound with His praise because of the works of His hands and the magnificence of His thoughts (Psalm 90:4-5). He is now and forever the One who reigns, “robed in majesty” and “enveloped in strength” (Psalm 93:1).
ACTION STEPS:
- Choose a favorite song, and sing of God’s faithfulness early today.
- Pick another favorite, and sing of His steadfast love tonight. It is good to praise Him.
PRAYER: “Lord, Your throne is established, and You reign. You are worthy of my praise today.’”
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 94-96, Romans 15:14-33
