Let It Spring Up!

There was an elderly woman who did not have much in the way of the world's goods, but was very rich in enthusiasm connected to her Christian faith. Though she was a member of a very staid and dignified congregation, she often burst out with an exuberant “Hallelujah!” much to the dismay of the leadership. Finally the elders approached her with the proposition that if she would not disturb the peace of the church service with her spontaneity, they would give here two large, warm blankets. She was desperately in need of the extra blankets and therefore agreed.

The next Sunday morning, after hearing another glorious Bible truth, she just could not contain herself. Out came a loud “Hallelujah!” as she noticed two elders sitting close by give her a stern look. She remained quiet for a few minutes until another wonderful truth gripped her heart, but she caught herself before the praise escaped her lips. However, several minutes later, when the preacher stated another truth that thrilled her deep within, she broke forth with, “Blankets or no blankets, praise the Lord, Hallelujah!”

“Enthusiasm” comes from two Greek words: “en” and “theos” which brings the focus of the word to be “in God” or “God in”. That ought to be a source of great enthusiasm. When we realize all that God has done and is doing for us PRAISE should naturally spring up in our lives and from our lips. Just as laughter is a natural response when struck by something funny, so PRAISE should be a natural response when struck by that which is good and glorious in our view of God and His truth!

Note these words through the prophet Isaiah.
“For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and PRAISE TO SPROUT UP before all the nations.” ( Isaiah 61:11 ESV)

And the Psalmist wrote…
“I will bless the LORD at all times; HIS PRAISE SHALL CONTINUALLY BE IN MY MOUTH.” ( Psalm 34:1 ESV)

As naturally as the truth of God grips our soul and touches our heart, may the PRAISE spring forth as well!

Have a great day SINGING HIS PRAISES!
Carl
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[This focus was originally sent 10/31/1998 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

See other teEn-MAIL on Praise