Praise the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honorable and glorious: and his righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion. He has given nourishment unto them that fear him: he will never forget his covenant.
Psalm 111:1-5 (Paraphrase mine)
It seems obvious that this psalm is speaking of public worship, i.e. “in the congregation.” He is not speaking of half-hearted worship but worship with exuberance. I think this kind of worship and praise is acting like people do when their favorite team makes a last second touchdown to win the championship. Too much of the time the church acts like it is on the losing side of the battle instead of being with the Winner of it all.
The Psalmist gives us six great reasons to praise and worship the Lord with our “whole heart:” first, the works of the Lord are great. We can talk about His works and we can sing about His works but to comprehend the power behind His works is too much for us. Next, he said that His work is honorable and glorious. Not much needs to be said about that. Also, he said His righteousness endures forever. God does not change. He said, “I am the Lord your God and I change not.” He Who is altogether righteous and holy has no need to change. Then he said that the Lord is “gracious and full of compassion.” That is 180 degrees from the thinking of many people who feel that God is some begrudging ogre.
If the Lord was, as many think He is, then no one could be saved. He also feeds us with good things that we may be fully nourished. And He will never forget His covenant. What He says, He will do so let us believe and not doubt. What you ask Him for He will bring it to pass. When He answers your prayers take time to turn back and give Him thanks for what He has done for you. Have a blessed day, amen and amen.
