The Grand Stands
“Come, let’s shout joyfully to the LORD, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! Let’s enter his presence with thanksgiving; let’s shout triumphantly to him in song.” - Psalm 95:1-2
One of the best moments any athlete can experience is to walk out to a cheering crowd. Whether it’s thousands of fans or a handful, hearing their praise and cheers warms your heart. The people who have come to watch you play desire for you to know that they are in the crowd, and they want others around them to see that you belong to them. Vocal cheers and praise symbolize their love and support for you.
One of my favorite forms of cheers is when a small group of opposing team fans cheer for their team amidst a massive crowd of home team fans. They are not afraid to be surrounded by people who don’t like them; they show their pride despite it.
How often do we show our praise for God? In addition, are we ever brave enough to show our praise for God amid a crowd of non-believers? It’s easy for us to show pride and ownership for our favorite team or players, but what about God?
Psalms is a book in Scripture dedicated to showering God with praise, and many forms of praise are given in public. Psalm 95 begins with a command to make a joyful noise to God with songs of praise. It doesn’t say to praise God only when it’s convenient, or you are in church. We should be brave enough to sing songs of praise at any time in any location.
God wants us to take ownership of Him, cheer His name, and let everyone around us know that we belong to Him. If He is truly our Rock and Redeemer, we should not allow fear to silence our praise.
- Do you shy away from praising God in public?
- What is the fear behind your silence?
- Why does God desire to be praised?
“Abba Father, we lift Your Holy Name. Give us the courage to praise You in all times and all locations. Ignite our hearts to sing out Glory, Glory, Glory no matter who is around! Amen.”
