The concept of God as our praise is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the centrality of God in the life of the believer as the ultimate source of joy, worship, and adoration. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the relationship between God and His people, where He is not only the object of their worship but also the reason for their rejoicing.

Biblical Foundation

The idea of God as our praise is explicitly mentioned in Deuteronomy 10:21: "He is your praise and He is your God, who has done for you these great and awesome wonders your eyes have seen" . This verse underscores the notion that God Himself is the reason for Israel's praise, rooted in His mighty acts and His covenantal relationship with His people.

God's Mighty Acts

Throughout the Old Testament, God's mighty acts serve as a catalyst for praise. The deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision in the wilderness are all events that prompted the Israelites to praise God. In Exodus 15:2, following the crossing of the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites sing, "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, God is praised not only for His power but also for His personal relationship with His people.

The Psalms: A Book of Praise

The Book of Psalms is a rich tapestry of praise, with numerous psalms dedicated to extolling God for His attributes and deeds. Psalm 22:3 declares, "Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel" , indicating that God dwells in the praises of His people. The psalmists often recount God's faithfulness and deliverance as reasons for praise, as seen in Psalm 145:3, "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable" .

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the theme of God as our praise continues, with a focus on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:6 speaks of the praise of God's glorious grace, "to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One" . The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus are central to the believer's praise, as they reveal God's love and mercy.

The Role of the Church

The early church understood its mission as one of declaring the praises of God. 1 Peter 2:9 states, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" . The church is called to be a community that continually praises God, reflecting His light to the world.

Eternal Praise

The book of Revelation provides a glimpse into the eternal praise of God, where heavenly beings and redeemed humanity join in worship. Revelation 5:13 proclaims, "And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying: 'To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever!'" . This vision underscores the eternal nature of God's praise, which transcends time and space.

Conclusion

The theme of God as our praise is a profound reminder of the believer's calling to live a life centered on worship and adoration of the Creator. Through His mighty acts, His redemptive work in Christ, and His eternal reign, God remains the ultimate source and object of praise for His people.