Psalms 98:4
The scripture for today is Psalms 98:4
Psalms 98:4 Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.
Have you ever wondered why, in scripture, we are enjoined to express joy, singing, and praise to the Lord? Is God motivated by the egocentric predicament? Is His satisfaction what motivates Him and is having a world that continuously sings His praises what satisfies Him?
The Bible tells us clearly that "God is love." 1 John 4:8 True love has as its objective meeting the needs of the one who is loved, not using them selfishly for personal gratification. Love,"agape" is descriptive of God, it is a greater spiritual force than anything we can imagine. It would be inconsistent with His love nature for God to use mankind for selfish gratification. That would put God in the same category as the tyrants of earth. Clearly God, who "so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son," is not interested in extracting from the objects of His love self-centered adoration. Love is constantly giving, even when it receives nothing in return.
God delights in our praises because praise demonstrates our recognition of who God is and our embrace of His love for us as our Creator and Redeemer. As a result, joy, praise, and singing spring forth from the depths of our redeemed hearts. It is not merely following a command; it is an expression of delight. It expresses our fellowship with God; it brings us into "oneness" with Him. He lives in His people and He inhabits their praises. It says to all creation, God is with us.
Praise is the expression of overcomers. Praise to God is their focus because they love and adore Him. And He keeps them in perfect peace because of His great love for them. Daily we offer Him the sacrifice of praise, not out of compulsion, but because of the joy that it brings to be in Him and He in us.
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim