"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God,
that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name."
that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name."
Hebrews 13:15
He had been in failing health for several months. His body was weakened and his energy level was less than normal. On Sunday, his wife said, "I know you don't feel like going to church today." He said, "No, I don't. I don't feel like going, but I'm going anyway. I want to sing with the congregation. I want to praise God anyway." You could say that the man was pushing himself, however, it was more than that. He knew what it meant to offer the sacrifice of praise. Many people can praise God, and thank Him, when things are going well. Few people may do so when things are not going so well.
Hebrews 13:15 tells us about the sacrifice of praise, when Christians were suffering persecution and martyrdom at the hands of a ruthless emperor. It was not popular to be a Christian. Many had publicly denied the faith. The faithful persevered in tough times. It was an hour to offer the sacrifice of praise to God, regardless of the circumstances. When we praise God in prayer and song during tough times, we invite the Presence of heaven into our trying circumstances.
Often, we may complain about our situation, when times are hard and days are difficult. Most of us have probably been guilty many times. Yet, there is another option. Offer the sacrifice of praise. Go ahead. What do you have to lose? Let us refocus our thoughts away from the problems to the One who loves us and cares about us, lifting our voices in songs and prayers of praise to God. You just may be surprised what God will do in your life through the sacrifice of praise.
Prayer: Praise God from Whom all blessings flow. We praise You, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We praise You in the good times and the bad. You are always worthy of our praise. We offer the sacrifice of praise to You. Amen.
