An Overflow of Praise

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise-- the fruit of lips that confess his name.” (Heb 13:15 NIV)

It seems as though there is a never ceasing flow of conversation and words that we are bombarded with each and every day. Opinions abound and they are shared almost without reservation! Talk shows and talk radio are accessible 24/7 on just about any subject fit and unfit for human consumption. With all the chatter going on it seems that the voices behind the words fall into one of three categories: Talkers, Squawkers, and Exalters!

Talkers are excitable and outgoing individuals that never seem to be at a loss for words. They make great conversationalists; if you like one sided conversations! You can merely nod your head and grunt “um-hum” every now and then and suddenly after half an hour you have covered the issues of the day! They are able to expound on any subject with conviction and insight. They may be wrong, but they are never in doubt! Words flow with ease and regularity!

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good conversation as much as the next person. I even appreciate those who can carry a conversation into interesting and enjoyable areas. But talk just for the sake of talk can be dangerous! Solomon warns us in Proverbs 10:19, “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” There is a time to speak and a time not too! I try and follow the old saying, “Let them think you are stupid rather than opening your mouth and removing all doubt!” Our conversation is important but it must he purposeful and honoring to God.

Squawkers are critical individuals who always seem to have something negative to say. Regardless of the circumstances their comments tend to take a downward turn and a complaining tone. Contentment is illusive and satisfaction seems to be unattainable. After a short conversation with a Squawker you either feel extremely depressed or extremely thankful that you are not them!

All of us face difficulties and find ourselves dealing with negative circumstances. We need friends with whom we can share our struggles and feelings. But in doing so do we fall into the trap of being negative and complaining or trust God with a heart of gratitude? King David, who was greatly persecuted, responded to negative circumstances by praying, “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Ps 19:14 NIV) No room for squawking when we are seeking to please God!

Exalters are focused on God and not on themselves. They always have a word of praise for who God is and a word of thanks for what God has done. Their conversation springs forth from a heart condition. Jesus taught us that, “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matt 12:34 NIV) When I find myself guilty of Talking and Squawking I have to check my heart and see what is “overflowing” from it.

King David reminds us of where our heart, thoughts and conversation should be centered. He writes in Psalm 40:4-5, “How blessed is the man who has made the LORD his trust, and has not turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood. Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which you have done, and your thoughts toward us; there is none to compare with you. If I would declare and speak of them, they would be too numerous to count.” As the old hymn says,

“Count your blessings, name them one by one:
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done!”

Good advice that will lead to an Overflow of Praise! Praising with you!

Larry