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Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD. — Ps. 150:6
The first chapter of Alexander Blaikie’s Catechism on Praise teaches us what is the fundamental nature of and reason for praise, that joyful duty to which we owe God.
I. What is the praise of God?
It is the manifestation of his declarative glory by his creatures. Psa. 69:34; 150:6.
II. Do the Scriptures authorize or command that praise shall be given to God, as an act of worship?
Yes, both. All creatures, but especially Christians, are required to render it. Psa. 86:12,13; 138:1; 65:1; 89:5.
III. Has God given to us any directions how we are to praise him?
Yes, in his word. Psa. 9:1; 86:12; 109:30; Hos. 14:2; Heb. 13:15.
IV. For what are we to praise God?
For his great and wonderful excellencies; for what he in himself, as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Author of salvation to his saints; for what he has done, and what he has promised to do.
V. For what are we to give thanks?
For all our comforts and hopes; especially for an interest in Christ, and the hope of eternal life. Eph. 5:20; Heb. 13:15.
VI. What, then, is the nature of praise?
It is a tribute of affection and esteem, which we give to the true God, that thus we may increase his declarative glory. Psa. 50:23.
It is good not to lose sight of such a precious and fundamental precept as the duty to offer praise to our God. We always have occasion to praise the Lord even in all circumstances. He who praises his Maker and his Redeemer is blessed in rendering glory to God, which is our chief end and also our great delight.
