Our praise to God is a cornerstone of our Christian life, commanded in scripture (Hebrews 13:15-16), but changing our mindset and propelling us towards spiritual maturity.
Accordingly, Teleios recently surveyed adolescents and millennials regarding their views about praise. The survey was promoted on the Christian Instagram accounts, InstaPray and GodsHolyScriptures. Of the 332 participants the majority were: female (78%), <35 years old (73%), from the United States (52%), and evangelical (71%). All the findings of the survey can be found here https://teleiosresearch.com/do-young-christians-praise/.
Three-quarters (74%) of participants said they praise God every day. Most commonly they praise God because it is due Him (79%), but it also makes them feel good (79%). Importantly, those who praise God every day reported better wellbeing than those who praised less (P<0.001).
Participants indicated they praise God by expressing their gratitude to Him for their blessings (85%), singing hymns (78%), and recognizing His holy character and actions (65%).
In contrast, they noted the Bible states praise is by expressing thanksgiving (84%), living a godly lifestyle (81%), and expressing to God (79%) as well as to other people (78%) His righteous character and actions.
Participants believed praise helps them by reminding them of God’s greater purposes and desires than their own (91%), giving them joy (85%), and causing them to be more humble (79%).
Participants indicated that praise is directed to God the Father (97%), Jesus (89%), and the Holy Spirit (79%), although the Bible only directs praise to God the Father.
This survey showed that young Christian believers generally have a solid concept of praise, being thankful, and recognizing God's righteous character and actions.
How then and why do we praise - what does scripture say?
• Definition of ‘praise’ – Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘praise’ as:
o To express a favorable judgment or commend
o To glorify (a god or saint) especially by the attribution of perfections
• Content of praise – Therefore, as a Christian what should be the content of biblical praise? The Bible gives some hints:
o Acknowledgement of God’s perfect character (Ephesians 1:6)
o Acknowledgement of God’s righteous actions (Psalm 139:14; Psalm 148)
o Thankfulness (Hebrews 13:15)
• Reason we praise – Why do we praise God? The reasons are vital to our Christian life and are listed below:
o The Bible commands us to praise – It is our duty to praise God. However, God does not give us commands without reason, so several potential explanations follow below (Psalm 150; Romans 15:11; Hebrews 13:15).
o He deserves praise – Our Father in Heaven is the almighty God who has provided for us salvation through his precious Son, Jesus Christ, as a free gift through faith to eternal life. This salvation is a sure hope and anchor for our souls. Surely, He deserves glory, thanks, and praise (1 Peter 4:11; Hebrews 6:19).
o It is good for us to praise – God made us! Therefore, He knows what is good for us. It is good for us to praise at least for the following reasons:
o God’s ordained order – Praise reminds us of the order of the universe. We are not the most important thing in creation. God’s goals and priorities are above, and better than ours!
o Humility – Realizing that God’s plans are more important than ours might limit our complaining and remind us that we are here to serve our great God.
o Attitude – Praise teaches us thankfulness in realizing God’s gifts to us in creation, in Christ and His benefits in this life as our Father. These should promote an attitude of thankfulness and reduce expectations (Philippians 4:8).
We do indeed have a great God who is worthy of all praise! Make praise a part of your daily life and reap the benefits personally while giving God what He deserves.
William C. Stewart, MD
For questions or to view more of our research…
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Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
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