Unsurprisingly, that which fills our airwaves is that which fills the minds of many. Our Televisions, radios and computers offer seemingly endless options for news, sports, music, politics, finances, humour, drama, and reality TV shows. However, though not insignificant in volume, religion does not seem to command the same attention as other interests.
We praise that which we hold dear. And the more important the object of our praise, the more time and energy we put into preserving its influence upon us.
The object of the Christian’s praise is God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ. Just as the Old Testament priests sacrificed the produce of the herds and fields to God, we as priests sacrifice the produce of our hearts in the outpouring of our praises to God.
The writer of the Book of Hebrews brings daily worship into focus: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name” (Hebrews 13:15)
Wise parents raise their children to get to know a person before they speak of marriage. Experience teaches that it is in the months and years spent with someone that their values and attitudes are exposed—some to glory, and some to ignominy! As Jesus said: “The mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart” (Matthew 12:34).
That which is at the core of the believer’s thoughts and actions is “Christ in us.” And everyone who comes in contact with us is blessed by the Light of Christ that shines through our words and works. Herein, our sacrifices of praise are witnessed in heaven and on earth. Peter, knowing that some would react with hostility, assures us, “If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name” (1 Peter 4:16).
Thus, with King David we lift our voices and exclaim:
“Every day I will praise You and extol Your name for ever and ever” (Psalm 145:2).
John Staiger