There are so many things we use that need a password. It’s what enables us to sign in, participate, download, and get the information we need. And in a similar way, The Message paraphrases the psalmist’s words, ‘Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise.’ In other words, ‘Those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence’ (v.15 NIV). Praise isn’t just a reaction to coming into God’s presence; it does much more. It opens the door for God to enter our lives and go to work on our behalf. Praise brings God’s presence along with His direct intervention. The name Judah means ‘praise the Lord’, and when the twelve tribes of Israel travelled, Judah led the way (see Judges 20:18). On one occasion when Judah’s enemies were grouped against them, Jehoshaphat, their king, sent a choir to the front line ahead of the army to sing the praises of God. It sounded like a strange strategy, but it brought a supernatural victory. The Bible says, ‘As soon as they began singing, the LORD confused the enemy camp…Then they turned against each other’ (2 Chronicles 20:22-23 CEV). Praise is an expression of faith; an affirmation that we believe God is in control of the situation. The Bible talks about ‘the sacrifice of praise’ (Hebrews 13:15 NKJV). That means we must praise God even when we don’t feel like it. When it doesn’t come naturally, we must choose to do it anyway. Nehemiah said, ‘The joy of the LORD is your strength’ (Nehemiah 8:10 NKJV). Praise can heal our emotions and lift the weight of negativity. Try it – use your password of praise!

What Now?

Is there a worship song that always reminds you of God’s presence? Make that song your ‘password of praise’, and play it before you pray or read the Bible to help you focus on Him.