Exaltation

Exaltation in the biblical context refers to the act of elevating or lifting up, often in a spiritual or moral sense. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing the glory and majesty of God, as well as the honor bestowed upon individuals by God. The concept of exaltation is deeply rooted in the acknowledgment of God's supreme authority and the recognition of His divine attributes.

In the Old Testament, exaltation is frequently associated with God's sovereignty and His acts of deliverance. For instance, in Exodus 15:2, the song of Moses declares, "The LORD is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him." Here, exaltation is a response to God's mighty acts and His faithfulness to His people.

The Psalms are replete with calls to exalt the Lord. Psalm 99:5 states, "Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at His footstool; He is holy!" This verse highlights the holiness of God as a reason for His exaltation. The act of exalting God is not only a form of worship but also an acknowledgment of His unique and unparalleled nature.

In the New Testament, the theme of exaltation is often linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Philippians 2:9-11 speaks of Christ's exaltation following His humility and obedience unto death: "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage underscores the divine approval and honor bestowed upon Christ, affirming His lordship and the ultimate purpose of glorifying God.

Praise

Praise is the expression of admiration, gratitude, and reverence towards God. It is a central aspect of worship and is characterized by both verbal and non-verbal expressions of adoration. Praise is a response to God's character, His deeds, and His ongoing presence in the lives of believers.

The Bible frequently commands and encourages the people of God to engage in praise. Psalm 150:1-2 exhorts, "Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens. Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him for His excellent greatness." This psalm captures the essence of praise as a comprehensive and all-encompassing activity, directed towards God for His power and greatness.

Praise is not limited to times of joy and prosperity but is also a powerful expression of faith during trials and tribulations. The account of Paul and Silas in Acts 16:25 illustrates this, as they sang hymns of praise to God while imprisoned: "About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them." Their praise in the midst of suffering serves as a testament to the sustaining power of faith and the presence of God in all circumstances.

In the New Testament, praise is also linked to the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Ephesians 5:18-20 encourages believers to be filled with the Spirit, "speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." This passage highlights the communal and joyful nature of praise, as well as its role in fostering unity and gratitude among believers.

Overall, exaltation and praise are integral to the life of faith, serving as expressions of devotion, acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, and responses to His grace and mercy. Through exaltation and praise, believers align their hearts with the divine purpose and participate in the eternal worship of God.