Throughout the book of Psalms, the summons or call to praise God is generally accompanied by reasons to praise Him. These reasons basically fit into one of two categories: we praise Him for who He is (‘for His surpassing greatness’, as Ps 150:2 indicates) or for what He does (‘for His acts of power’, Ps 150:2).
As we reach the end of our studies on the book of Psalms and the end of 2018, it is a good exercise to write our own psalm of praise based on these two categories.
God is great (Ps 104:1, Ps 95:3-4) and this greatness extends to His love (Ps 86:13a, Ps 117:2), His mercy (Ps 25:6) and His faithfulness (Lam 3:23). We can also meditate on His kindness (Is 63:7, Jer 31:3), His goodness (Ps 119:68, Ps 13:6) and His righteousness (Ps 35:28). We can praise Him that He is slow to anger (Ps 103:8) and does not treat us as our sins deserve, but offers us forgiveness and redemption (Ps 103:9-10, Eph 1:7-8).
God’s people throughout history have praised Him for His acts of deliverance (see Ps 145:4, Ps 107). God is interested in people and works on our behalf. This year, we have seen new doors opening as we have worked in partnership with others (local churches, the Dearne Area Team and other organisations on the Summer Fun Days, 4FrontTheatre with the Christmas production ‘Job & Jingle’ and so on). We have seen God move people in new directions and have seen many answers to prayer. We all have our own reasons to praise. Why not share them with us and with others? As the redeemed of the Lord tell their stories (Ps 107:2), people will hear and be blessed. (Ps 40:9-10) If you’ve tasted afresh that the Lord is good this year or have experienced His acts of power on your behalf, please feel free to comment and let us rejoice with you.