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Hebrews 13:15, 16 - Living The Sacrifice Of Praise!

Hebrews 13:15, 16 (NKJV) Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Hebrews 13:15, 16 (NIV) Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise--the fruit of lips that confess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

Hebrews 13:15, 16 (NLT) With Jesus' help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of his name. 16 Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God.

Hebrews 13:15, 16 (ESV) Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. 16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

INTRODUCTION

   One of the most frequently repeated instructions in Scripture is for us to praise and worship God - not because he is ego driven, but because praising him is right, good and beautiful. Not only is God worthy of our praise, but we benefit from it. When we worship him, we are fulfilling our created purpose and aligning ourselves with heaven's heartbeat.
   Hebrews 13:15 refers to praise as a sacrifice, perhaps both because it pleases God as an offering and because it sometimes isn't easy for us. When we choose to praise God even when life is hard and circumstances seem to conspire against us or our mood just isn't into it, we are making a sacrifice that honors and pleases God because praise is always right and good. [NIV Once A Day Bible]

COMMENTARY PEARLS

Eternal Praise
   Peter referred to praise with eternity in mind: "praise... at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:7), praise "of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (2:9), and glorifying God "through Jesus Christ" with praise "forever" (4:11).
   Throughout Scripture we see people of God who praised Him in the face of death, and unto death, as they each died as martyrs for the sake of and the eternal praise of Jesus Christ.
   What will praise sound like in Heaven eternal? We will no longer sing praises in the midst of persecution, despair, or imprisonment, for "He has put a new song in my mouth," a song of praise to God (Psalm 40:3).
   We will praise Him in His mighty expanse. We will sing praise to the Most High and praise His power. We will praise Him for His Word. And one day His holy name will be praised by everything that has breath. "The LORD shall reign forever... praise the LORD!" (Psalm 146:10).
   What will it be like when everything in the world praises the Lord? [Peace for Each Day by Billy Graham]

Keeping God In Focus
   What do you find yourself fixing your eyes on? What captures and holds your attention, so much so that you can't look away?
   A more peaceful life begins with keeping your gaze locked on the Lord. It isn't a onetime thing - it's a constant activity of recentering your thoughts and turning your focus to get God in view. Three things happen as we direct our eyes toward Him.
   First, your heart is glad. Your emotions shift, and fear is replaced by confidence that the Almighty is with you. Second, you rejoice. Worship displaces worry as a sacrifice of praise fills your mouth. Third, your body rests securely. You lie down in the bed of steadfast hope, and you rest believing God is in control.
   When you keep God in focus, you are able to continually worship Him. This overflow of worship leads to peace, security, and joy. Make every effort today to ensure your eyes are always fixed on the King.
   Dear Lord, when I keep You in view, I want to continually offer a sacrifice of praise to You for Your holy and faithful love. [Grace and Glory by Louie Giglio]

TWO GREAT PRAISE SONGS

"Praise" with Christina Dale, First Dallas Choir & Orchestra:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amCtIAEi35Y

Down from His Glory by Larry Wayne Morbitt [Live]; Gaither Music TV:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvHWT3vXA6c

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Hebrews 13:15, 16 - Living The Sacrifice Of Praise!
https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20221105-0843.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2013/20131116-1054.html

Hebrews 13:15,16 - Living The Sacrifice Of Praise To God Continually!
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2004/20040826-0728.html

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/