What is praise?

You’ve probably heard someone at church say, “We are going to have a time of Praise and Worship.” 

What once began as a simple catchphrase in Christian music has morphed into a vague phrase.

Many have tossed the phrase around without stopping to consider the true meaning behind the words.


WHAT IS PRAISE?
• According to the dictionary, Praise is the expression of approval or admiration for someone or something.
OR 

the expression of respect and gratitude as an act of worship. 

The Bible tell us in Hebrews 13 v 15
By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 

Therefore, Praise is to thankfully acknowledge, glorify and confess the name of the Lord Jesus.  Praise is a sacrifice. 

* In simpler terms, it means to be thankful for God’s blessings, goodness, mercy, love.. Here are some examples in Scripture: 

• Psalms 136 v 1 (KJV)
Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever

• Psalm 135 v 3 (MSG)
Hallelujah! Praise the name of God, Praise the works of God. All you priest on duty in God’s temple, serving in the sacred halls of our God, shout Hallelujah, because God is so good. Sing anthems to his beautiful name.


• Exodus 15 v 2 (KJV)
The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; My Father’s God and I will exalt him


Each of these Scriptures emphasize that praise is an outward expression to God, acknowledging him for who He is through our words
This is the true foundation of praise. It doesn’t have to be directly correlated with music, and it has nothing to do with putting on a show. True praise comes from the heart.
Praise clearly goes beyond something we do in church or at a concert.
It is not just a title to be assigned to describe an activity. Rather it is a spiritual sacrifice offered to God.