Guiding Scripture: Psalm 134:2 “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord.”
Cross Reference: Psalm 103:21, “Bless the LORD, all His hosts, you servants who do His will.”
Revelation 19:5, “Then a voice came from the throne, saying: “Praise our God, all you who serve Him, and those who fear Him, small and great alike!”
1 Chronicles 9:33, “Those who were musicians, the heads of Levite families, stayed in the temple chambers and were exempt from other duties because they were on duty day and night.”
Affectionate Praise
written by: Torrie Slaughter
Psalm 134 is a corporate worship song of praise, love, and admiration. It is part of a collection of psalms (120-134) used during the pilgrimage to Jerusalem. We could think of it as a divine playlist for those of us who travel, keeping God at the center of our hearts. That intentional focus is free of gossip and idle talk while making the journey.
The travel back and forth to Jerusalem created opportunities to experience God in an unlikely way. Walking well-worn paths to arrive before the Lord with people who desired to worship. Yes, it was a duty to lay everything aside to give affectionate adoration to the Sovereign Creator, yet they received far more than they gave.
I can’t help but marvel at the wondrous community and fellowship of God’s servants.
As you read today’s assigned passages, think about all the ways you can praise God. How can you involve others? Remember, corporate worship does not have to be formal; it does not require fancy clothes or complicated rituals. God wants us to submit ourselves to His will and spend time with Him.
C.S. Lewis wrote: “The psalms were written as songs and should be read in the spirit of lyric poetry rather than as doctrinal treatises or sermons.”
Prayer: Your praise will ever be on my lips. I give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His mercy, His faithful love, endures forever. I speak out because the Lord has redeemed me. God, You are always here. You are our comfort, our shelter, and our strength. Let every breath and all that I am, all that we are, never cease to worship you. Amen
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Thursday, December 15, 2022
Micah 1:1-4:13, Revelation 6:1-17, Psalm 134:1-3, Proverbs 30:1-4
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Torrie is a media ministry consultant who works with churches and faith driven organizations to build their ministry team. She is the Blueprint Specialist uncovering root problems to construct solutions. Want to hear more? Tune in and listen to A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional a podcast by Our Given Purpose and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.
