"Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power." (Psalm 21:13 ESV)
What's the difference between praise and worship? Is there a difference? Does it even matter? I can tell you that it is very important and it does matter. Understanding these two words will help you glorify God and enjoy Him even more!
Praise is an expression of how great someone or something is. When we see God in all His majesty and glory, in all His greatness and power, in all His grace and justice, in all His love and mercy, we should want to express how wonderful He is. Praise can be expressed in a thought, a prayer, a cheer, a proclamation, or a song. When we speak about how great God is, that's praise. How often do we praise God throughout the day? Do we even praise Him at all? Make great the greatness of God today!
Now what is worship? It's a bummer how the English language is so tied down and vague. Look at the Spanish word for worship: adoracion. doesn't that look like the English word adoration? How awesome is that! Worship is an act of adoration. It's an expression from the heart towards someone or something that you value greatly. What do you treasure most in this life? God? A person? Earthly things? Anything that you treasure more than God is an idol. That person or thing is an instrument to steal God's glory. Be careful about who or what you treasure most in this life. God is to be treasured and enjoyed above everything and everyone else in this lifetime. Worship is expressed when we stand in awe of God for who He is. When we enjoy God we are worshipping Him. When we treasure God we are worshipping Him. John Piper, said "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him". Being satisfied with God for who He is is worshipping Him.
May praise and worship of our great and living God fill your your hearts today, may the grace of our Lord Jesus transform your ways to His, and may the Holy Spirit fill you with power to do great things for the glory and pleasure of God!
Blessings,
Nick
