Psalm 34:1 I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
To extol means to praise enthusiastically. In the Bible we see extolling used to lift up, to esteem, to praise. But to extol is more than just praise. It goes beyond praise, making it a more enthusiastic and elevated form. And it often highlights virtues or specific qualities. Praise, as we have used it so far this month, is the more general form of expressing approval and appreciation.
David speaks of extolling the Lord at all times. That includes the good times as well as the bad, the days we experience success and joy, as well as the dark days of hardship and suffering. Praise should always be in our hearts, our minds, and our mouths no matter the circumstances. This is easy to do when times are good and our hearts rejoice. But David reminds us that praise should always be on our lips, at all times.
We should make every effort to live a life of gratitude and praise Him for everything we experience. We know it is not possible to praise at all times, but we should strive to do so, to make it a goal in our lives. We should live intentionally, deliberately expressing gratitude and admiration. We extol Him at all times, in all circumstances, in good times and in bad, and sing His praises forever.
Are you making it a habit to keep praise upon your lips? Choose today to focus on giving Him praise continuously. Every time the thought crosses your mind, stop and praise Him again. Make it your goal to increase your praise throughout the day. Push yourself to worship Him more and more each hour. No matter the circumstances, let His praise always be on your lips.
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