In the biblical narrative, praise is frequently depicted as a natural and appropriate response to the revelation of God's character, deeds, and divine will. This response is deeply rooted in the recognition of God's majesty, holiness, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan throughout history. The act of praising God is not merely a ritualistic expression but a heartfelt acknowledgment of His sovereignty and grace.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament provides numerous instances where praise is a direct response to God's revelation. In the Psalms, which serve as a rich repository of praise, the psalmists often respond to God's self-disclosure with adoration and worship. For example, Psalm 19:1-2 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge." Here, the natural world reveals God's glory, prompting a response of praise.

The Exodus narrative also highlights praise as a response to divine revelation. After the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, Moses and the Israelites sing a song of praise, acknowledging God's deliverance and power: "Who among the gods is like You, O LORD? Who is like You—majestic in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders?" (Exodus 15:11). This song reflects the community's recognition of God's intervention and their response in worship.

Prophetic Revelation and Praise

The prophets often conveyed God's messages, which included revelations of His plans and purposes. In response, the people were called to praise. Isaiah 12:4-5 exhorts, "Give praise to the LORD; proclaim His name! Make His works known among the peoples; declare that His name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for He has done glorious things. Let this be known in all the earth." The prophetic call to praise underscores the importance of responding to God's revealed actions and intentions with worship.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the revelation of God through Jesus Christ elicits profound praise. The incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of Christ are central revelations that inspire worship. The apostle Paul, in his epistles, often bursts into doxologies, praising God for His revealed mysteries and grace. In Romans 11:33-36 , Paul exclaims, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways! ... For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen."

The book of Revelation itself is a testament to praise as a response to divine revelation. The heavenly scenes depict creatures and elders continually praising God, acknowledging His holiness and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan: "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created" (Revelation 4:11).

Praise in the Life of Believers

For believers, praise is an integral part of their spiritual life, reflecting their response to God's ongoing revelation through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and personal experiences of His presence and guidance. The apostle Peter encourages believers to live lives of praise, stating, "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" (1 Peter 2:9). This call to proclaim God's virtues is a call to praise Him for His revealed grace and mercy.

In summary, praise as a response to revelation is a consistent theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the appropriate human reaction to the divine unveiling of God's nature and works. It is an expression of awe, gratitude, and worship, rooted in the acknowledgment of God's supreme authority and benevolent acts.