In the biblical narrative, praise is often depicted as a natural and appropriate response to a deeper understanding of God's nature, works, and will. This response is not merely an emotional reaction but a profound acknowledgment of divine truth and revelation. Throughout Scripture, praise emerges as a central theme, reflecting the believer's recognition of God's majesty, power, and grace.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays a strong foundation for understanding praise as a response to divine revelation. In the Psalms, which serve as a rich repository of praise, the psalmists frequently express adoration and worship upon grasping God's attributes and deeds. For instance, Psalm 145:3-5 declares, "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable. One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts. The glorious splendor of Your majesty, and Your wondrous works, I will meditate."

The narrative of King David provides a vivid example of praise following understanding. In 2 Samuel 7, after receiving God's covenant promise, David responds with a prayer of praise, acknowledging God's greatness and faithfulness. This response underscores the principle that true understanding of God's promises and character naturally leads to worship.

Prophetic Insights

The prophets also highlight praise as a response to understanding God's plans and purposes. Isaiah 12:4-5 exhorts, "In that day you will say: '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.'" Here, the call to praise is directly linked to the recognition of God's redemptive acts and His sovereign plan for the nations.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the revelation of Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan elicits profound praise from those who understand His mission and identity. The apostle Paul, in his epistles, often bursts into doxologies, praising God for the mystery of salvation revealed in Christ. In Romans 11:33-36 , Paul exclaims, "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways! 'Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor?'... For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen."

The book of Revelation presents a celestial vision of praise, where understanding of God's ultimate victory and justice leads to worship. Revelation 5:12-13 records the heavenly chorus: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!... To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever!"

Practical Implications for Believers

For believers, praise as a response to understanding is both a privilege and a duty. It involves a conscious reflection on God's attributes, His works in creation, providence, and redemption. As understanding deepens through study of Scripture, prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit, praise becomes an integral part of the believer's life. The call to "rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) encapsulates the essence of a life marked by praise in response to divine understanding.

In summary, praise as a response to understanding is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the believer's recognition of God's greatness and the unfolding of His divine plan. It is an act of worship that arises from a heart enlightened by the truth of God's Word and His works.