I remember back when I attended church with my parents, the church we went to sang three songs and sat down. I also remember many years later participating in praise worship when the saints entered into high praises; where the air is thick with the presence of the Holy Spirit and demons literally screamed out of a person who needed deliverance. Our sacrifice reached heaven as a sweet smelling aroma.

10. We have an alter from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat. 11. For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp. 12. Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13. Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. 14. For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. 15. 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. Hebrews 13:10-15 NKJV.

Why is praising God a sacrifice? The word “sacrifice” (Greek thusia) comes from the root thuo, a verb meaning “to kill or slaughter for a purpose.” Praise often requires that we “kill” our pride, fear, or sloth—anything that threatens to diminish or interfere with our worship of the Lord.

We discover here the Basis of all our praise: the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by Him, in Him, with Him, to Him, and for Him that we offer our sacrifice of praise to God. Praise will never be successfully hindered when we keep its focus on Him—the Founder and Completer of our salvation.

His Cross, His blood—His love gift of life and forgiveness to us—Keep praise as a living sacrifice!