Our pure motivation for praise is based on two Biblical truths: We are commanded to praise Him and He is worthy of our praise. With that being said, praise is also therapeutic, mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Corrie ten Boom once said:
"Keep your eyes on the world and you'll be distressed.
Keep your eyes on yourself and you'll be depressed.
Keep your eyes on Jesus and you'll be at rest."
The Hymn writer wrote: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace."
If we are preoccupied with self, thinking too highly or too lowly, there is an egotistical or insecure effect on our lives. We need to choose to focus on Jesus rather than self. In praise we focus on Him if we obey the scriptural command to praise Him continually. Isaiah says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusts in Thee"(Isa. 26:3) If we constantly gaze on Him - that will bring rest.
Both Saul and Elisha, when they were mentally troubled or distracted, would call for the musicians to play music which would calm their souls. God doesn't make suggestions. He gives commands. The last phrase of the last Psalm simply states, "Praise the Lord!" Praise is mentioned 332 times in Scripture. God inhabits the praises of His people. Satan is resisted by praise and praise is therapeutic in our walk with God. Let us Praise! mjm
A Melody from Michael J. . . . a Personal and Worship Blog
