The Word of God instructs us in the proper usage of our tongue. And, oh boy, our tongue can be a useful tool of faith, hope, and love or an unruly member of our bodies. We eventually, either good or bad, will communicate verbally what is in our hearts. If our hearts are wicked and unholy, rebellious and stubborn ... corrupt language as well as actions will spew out. If the Holy Spirit of God, which is Jesus Christ, fills and indwells us, edifying praises and worship will pour out of our hearts.
Yes, we can choose what to say by guarding our hearts and minds filling them with songs of praise and spiritual things that are "...honest ... just ... pure ... lovely ... good report; if there by any virtue, and if there by any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8).
The apostle Paul declared, "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your hearts to the Lord;" (Ephesians 5:19). More than singing the latest worship song by your favorite artist and more than singing beautiful, godly rhyming lyrics that someone has written, singing is an outward expression of the soul that reveals our emotions.
You may cry, laugh, clap your hands, raise your arms, lift your voice or even shout out as we sing praises to God. Praise and worship should be unconditional at all times! Even in your sickness; even in your pain; even in your hardest trial ... while I know it is difficult for a person to sing praises, but a sacrifice of praise in the midst of our trials and stresses on this journey of faith will, I repeat will, refocus your attention to the One who holds all power and authority! I realize health conditions make it impossible for some individuals trying to make an outward expression of praise and worship, but heartfelt praise and worship still pleases Jesus Christ.
Be consistent in your praise to the Lord. Real praise comes from within, and outside influences should not dampen or weaken, or even mute the fervor of praise. It seems much easier to praise God when the bills are paid, the sky is blue and the sun is shining bright. But real praise and worship unto God is contingent on outside influences. Heartfelt praise and worship is lifestyle! Do not reserve your praise to God when He answers your prayer. Do not reserve your praise and worship to a specific time on Wednesdays and Sundays. Praise and worship should be, must be ... and consistent attitude that is a part of us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
We should always live in an attitude of praise and worship. Be consistent, and be found faithful. Thanks for reading.
God bless,
CRG