Biblical Prayer: Adoration – Sing to the Lord a New Song

Psalm 148, Who
Psalm 96, What
Psalm 145, When
Psalm 147, Why
Psalm 150, How

More About Biblical Prayer

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Psalms 148, Who (8/30/08)

For anyone who is wondering whether you should praise God in prayer or other forms of worship:  yep.  Providing, of course, that you fall into one of the following groups: Today’s Prayer: Everybody praise God!

Psalms 96, What (9/2/08)

What types of adoration are appropriate?  Singing, blessings of God, telling other people about God, and offerings, among others.  I often begin my prayers with a hymn of praise before moving on to my requests.  It tends to focus my mind a little (I told you already that I have trouble with that) and direct my time with God at God rather than at myself. 

Today’s Prayer: Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Praise Him, all creatures here below! Praise Him above, ye heavenly host! Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost! Amen.

Psalms 145, When (9/3/08)

So when should we say prayers of praise?  I think the Jews bless God at least five times a day – in the morning, evening, and at meals.  David is clear on when he will bless God – every day, for ever and ever!

Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord, Sometimes I forget to praise you.  When I am busy, remind me to praise you for work to do.  When I am enjoying my meals, remind me to praise you for all your material gifts.  When I rise up and lie down, remind me to praise you for life.  Amen.

Psalms 147, Why (9/4/08)

There are many reasons to praise God; we read about some of them today.  Lately in New Mexico we've been praising God for rain.  In the South, many are praising God that the hurricanes were not as bad as predicted.  Being called a "Pollyanna" often has a negative connotation, but I think she was onto something – God gives good gifts, God mitigates bad circumstances, and God is present with you when the worst happens.  Particularly in our prayers, we should think about what blessings God has given us so that we can remember to praise him for them.  Notice, however, that praise, or adoration, is not the same as thanksgiving.

Today’s Prayer: Dear Lord, today I praise you for your holiness, your bounty, and your graciousness.  Amen.

Psalms 150, How (9/5/08)

How should we adore the Lord in song?  Some denominations sing in worship with no musical instruments whatsoever.  As a strict Methodist, I grew up thinking there ought to be five hymns and a doxology in every worship service.  Last Sunday at St. John's 11:00 service, we had only three hymns and a doxology, but we also had a prelude, a postlude, an anthem, an offertory, and a response to the Peace.  Some of the instruments that have been played during worship at St. John's are the pipe organ, electric organ, piano, guitar, bells, drum set, congas, djembe drums, tambourine, oboe, flute, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, violin, viola, steel drums, cello, trombone, tuba, timpani, cabasa, bass, timpani, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, recorder, banjo, and mandolin. 

If you want to sing or play an instrument as part of your daily prayers, you are in good company, because the psalmist encourages you to do just that.

For Today’s Prayer: Sing or play a song to the Lord.  If you can't remember the words, hum.  If you are completely unmusical, put on a record.


More About Biblical Prayer

The Purpose of Prayer
Conversations with God – Abraham
Conversations with God – Moses
Conversations with God – David and Solomon
Adoration: Sing to the Lord a New Song
Liturgical Prayer
When God Speaks
God promises to answer all prayers…
… Except the prayers of the Wicked. But if the Wicked repent, God hears them, too.
Sometimes the answer is “No.”
The disciples talk about prayer.
How Not to Pray
How to Pray: Effectively
How to Pray – Privately
How to Pray – Corporately

Copyright 2008, 2011 by Regina L. Hunter. All rights reserved.

Opinions expressed on this page are solely those of the author, Regina Hunter, and may or may not be shared by the sponsors or the Bible-study participants.  Thanks to the Holy Spirit for any useful ideas presented here, and thanks to all the readers for their support and enthusiasm.  All errors are, of course, the sole responsibility of the author.

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