Introduction

Praise for the LORD's Name is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the reverence, adoration, and worship due to God. The act of praising God's Name is not only a response to His attributes and deeds but also a command and privilege for believers. This entry explores the biblical foundation, significance, and expressions of praising the LORD's Name.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of praising the LORD's Name. In the Old Testament, the Psalms are replete with calls to worship and exalt God's Name. Psalm 113:1-3 declares, "Hallelujah! Give praise, O servants of the LORD; praise the name of the LORD. Blessed be the name of the LORD both now and forevermore. From the rising to the setting of the sun, the name of the LORD is to be praised."

The Name of the LORD is synonymous with His character and presence. In Exodus 34:5-7 , when God reveals His Name to Moses, He proclaims His attributes: "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth, maintaining loving devotion to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin."

Significance of Praising the LORD's Name

Praising the LORD's Name is an acknowledgment of His sovereignty, holiness, and goodness. It is an act of worship that aligns the believer's heart with God's will and purposes. In Psalm 29:2 , the psalmist exhorts, "Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness."

The act of praising God's Name is also a testimony to others. In Isaiah 12:4 , the prophet encourages, "Give praise to the LORD; proclaim His name! Make His works known among the peoples; declare that His name is exalted." Through praise, believers bear witness to God's greatness and invite others to experience His grace and truth.

Expressions of Praise

Praise for the LORD's Name can be expressed in various forms, including song, prayer, and proclamation. The Psalms, often referred to as the hymnbook of Israel, provide numerous examples of musical praise. Psalm 100:4 instructs, "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and bless His name."

Prayer is another vital expression of praise. The Lord's Prayer, as taught by Jesus in Matthew 6:9 , begins with the words, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name." This opening line sets the tone for reverence and adoration in communication with God.

Proclamation involves declaring God's Name and works to others. In the New Testament, the apostles and early Christians often praised God's Name publicly, as seen in Acts 2:47 , where they were "praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people."

Conclusion

Praising the LORD's Name is a fundamental aspect of the believer's life, rooted in Scripture and expressed through worship, prayer, and testimony. It is both a duty and a delight, reflecting the glory and majesty of God.