“You who fear the LORD, praise him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor him! Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!”
Psalm 22:23
Call to Open Praise
Have you ever experienced something so amazing that you couldn’t keep it to yourself?
Maybe it was a surprise promotion, an unexpected healing, or an answer to prayer that seemed impossible.
That’s the kind of excitement the psalmist is expressing here – a bubbling-over joy that has to be shared.
Understanding the Heart of This Verse
Who’s Being Called?
The verse mentions three groups:
- Those who fear the Lord
- Descendants of Jacob
- Descendants of Israel
But don’t worry if you don’t fit these categories exactly. Today, this call extends to everyone who follows Christ and recognizes His authority in their life.
Why Public Praise Matters
Think about the last time you heard someone share a story about God’s faithfulness in their life.
Remember how it lifted your spirits? That’s exactly what this verse is encouraging.
Your story of God’s work in your life might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today.
The Impact of Shared Testimony
When you praise God publicly, you’re:
- Encouraging others who might be struggling
- Building faith in your community
- Creating a legacy of faithfulness
- Showing gratitude to God
Making It Personal
You might be thinking, “But I’m not comfortable speaking in front of others.” That’s okay! Public praise doesn’t always mean standing in front of a crowd. It could be:
- Sharing with a friend over coffee
- Posting about God’s goodness on social media
- Writing a note of encouragement
- Simply participating in worship at church
Power of Community Praise
There’s something special about praising God together. It’s like a family gathering where everyone shares their best stories.
Each testimony adds to the bigger picture of God’s faithfulness.
Practical Ways to Share
- Start small with trusted friends
- Join a small group where sharing is natural
- Write down your experiences with God
- Look for everyday opportunities to mention God’s work in your life
Today’s Prayer
Lord, give me courage to share what you’ve done in my life. Help me see opportunities to praise you publicly and encourage others. Thank you for all the ways you’ve shown your faithfulness to me. Amen.
Your Challenge Today
Think about one thing God has done for you recently. It doesn’t have to be huge – even small blessings count.
Now, challenge yourself to share that with at least one person today.
A Final Thought
Remember, your story of God’s faithfulness might be exactly what someone else needs to hear to keep going in their faith journey. Don’t keep it to yourself – share it and watch how God uses it to encourage others.
Your experience with God is unique and valuable. When you share it, you’re not just praising God – you’re helping build faith in others. Isn’t it amazing how God can use your story to make a difference in someone else’s life?
Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study
You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms
God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!
As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!
This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.
- Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
- Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
- Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!