In the sermon "Privileged to Praise," Mike McInnis addresses the theological significance of praise, focusing primarily on its imperative for all living beings and its particular importance for the redeemed. He argues that while every person has a duty to praise God, those who have experienced His grace have the privilege and deep joy of doing so. Key Scripture references include Psalm 150, which calls all breath to praise the Lord, Psalm 115:17 emphasizing that the dead cannot praise God, and Genesis 2:7 discussing humanity’s creation in God’s image. McInnis outlines that praise should be a continuous, heartfelt activity and highlights its practical significance—transforming attitudes, fostering thankfulness, and fostering corporate worship among God’s people. Ultimately, he emphasizes that true praise involves a sacrifice of our very selves and an active engagement in worship.
Key Quotes
“It is an incumbent duty of every man, woman, boy, or girl who is alive on planet earth to praise Him.”
“The redeemed should live with a constant attitude of praise.”
“That which costs us nothing cannot be a sacrifice.”
“In the midst of our poverty, weakness, sinfulness, and inability, God has allowed and enabled us to bring something of value to lay before Him.”
The Bible emphasizes that all living beings should praise the Lord as an expression of their duty and privilege.
The Bible asserts that all who have breath are called to praise the Lord. Psalm 150 declares, 'Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.' This speaks to the fundamental duty of humanity as created in the image of God. Not only does creation sing His praises in various forms, but it is humanity, endowed with reason and life, that bears the special responsibility to glorify its Creator. The decision to praise Him stems from the recognition of His sovereignty and worthiness. In Psalm 115:17, it is clear that the dead cannot offer praise, signifying the significance of being alive in this calling to worship.
Psalms 150, Psalm 115:17, Genesis 2:7
Praise is vital for Christians as it acknowledges God's worth and our dependence on His mercies.
Praise holds a central place in the life of a believer, as it is an expression of gratitude for God's mercies and an acknowledgment of His worthiness. Christians are reminded in Psalm 63:3 that 'Thy lovingkindness is better than life,' signifying that our praise is a response to His goodness and grace. The act of praising God shifts our focus away from our circumstances and helps cultivate a heart of thankfulness and joy. Additionally, as believers gather to praise the Lord, they experience His presence in a profound way, as emphasized in Psalm 22:3, 'He inhabits the praises of His people.' Ultimately, praise is not merely an act but a recognition of our relationship with God and a natural outflow of a heart transformed by grace.
Psalm 63:3, Psalm 22:3
We should praise the Lord at all times and in all circumstances.
The call to praise the Lord is not limited to moments of joy or blessing; rather, it should be a continual practice in the life of the believer. In Psalm 34:1, David declares, 'I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.' This verse highlights the necessity of a constant attitude of worship, which can transform our perspective in challenging situations. When we face sadness or trials, we are reminded to hope in God and praise Him despite our circumstances, as seen in Psalm 42:5. Our worship can become both a source of strength and comfort. It is also essential to set aside specific times for praise, particularly within the community of believers, where collective worship can enhance our experience of God’s presence.
Psalm 34:1, Psalm 42:5
We should praise the Lord with our whole heart through active worship and thanksgiving.
Praising the Lord requires more than mere acknowledgment; it should involve our whole hearts and active participation. The scripture encourages us to bring the 'sacrifice of praise,' which implies that genuine worship entails an investment of our time, effort, and resources. We can express our praise through various means: singing, thanksgiving, and sharing testimonies of God's goodness. Hebrew 13:15 highlights this sacrificial aspect: 'Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God.' By fully engaging in praise, we demonstrate our recognition of God's value amidst our trials and shortcomings, reflecting a heart of devotion and gratitude.
Hebrews 13:15
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