Why Should We Be Praising God?

Psalm 68 begins, “May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him. As smoke is blown away by the wind, may you blow them away; as wax melts before the fire, may the wicked perish before God.” The psalmist is acknowledging the power and authority that God has over the enemy. Even though it is speaking of a physical enemy that is coming against them, we face three distinct enemies today. They are the Devil, the world, and our own sinful nature. For believers, we know that God triumphed over the Devil when He rose from the grave. The Devil has no power over Him. We know that the world’s control is drawing us into sin and selfish desires, but again, we know there is forgiveness and that God rescues those that call out to Him faith. My own sinful nature may be the toughest enemy to conquer, but again, Jesus paid the price for our sin, fulfilled the requirements of the law, and restored us in God’s sight. May all wickedness perish before God our Father. Verse 3 encourages us to walk in the confidence of a victorious God... “But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful.” It doesn’t matter how strong the enemy is because our God is stronger. We are called to rejoice before God. It is not just the attitude of the heart, but a real expression of our gratitude and worship because with God, I have everything I need. Verses 4-5, “Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds — his name is the Lord — and rejoice before him. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” Look at what He did for them in the wilderness.... “When you went out before your people, O God, when you marched through the wasteland, the earth shook, the heavens poured down rain... you refreshed your weary inheritance. Your people settled in it, and from your bounty, O God, you provided for the poor.” If God could lead His people through the desert for 40 years, imagine what He can do in your life, if you’ll let Him. The psalm closes, “Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth, sing praise to the Lord... Proclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the skies. You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!” Lord, we praise You, for You are worthy. Amen