Even Men Should Praise the Lord (Psalm 148)

Psalm 148 paints a beautiful picture of all creation praising the LORD - the Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. Each verse awakens my mind to the deeper realities that each member of the creation was created to worship God!

• the angels
• heavenly hosts
• sun
• moon
• shinning stars
• highest heavens
• waters above the skies
• sea creatures
• ocean depths
• lightening
• hail
• snow
• clouds
• stormy winds
• mountains
  
• hills
• fruit trees
• cedars
• wild animals
• cattle
• small creatures
• flying birds
• kings
• nations
• princes
• rulers... (and even)
  
• young men
• maidens
• old men
• children

Unfortunately, these do not all exalt the Lord - at least not intentionally. A sad but true reality is that men and women (myself included) willfully dishonor the Lord and thus deny Him the praise and worship He deserves.

Our lives were meant to reflect His glory - His grace and love. But, far too often the opposite it true. We live in habitual sin - paralyzing the heart of flesh that was exchanged for our old heart of stone and leaving us utterly useless in promoting the gospel. We are dim mirrors at best; no wonder people can't seem to see Jesus in us.

Today, as an act of worship, turn to Christ to wash away your sin. Be renewed and made whole again. Show the world what Jesus has done in you! Shine for Him!

14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

Here's a great video of Matt Redman singing "Shine" at Passion '07. Enjoy!