What About YOUR Praise??
“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.”
Acts 16:25 & 26
I’m one who doesn’t believe that there are coincidences in the occurrences of life. I believe that every single thing has a purpose and a reason for transpiring. I also know that everything - every detail; that is recorded in the Bible has relevance and is significant.
Therefore, whenever I’ve read this story about Paul and Silas, I’ve noticed how very descriptive it is. Now, Paul and Silas were praying and singing – but why was it necessary to record the actions of the other prisoners? Could it be that we were supposed to be made aware of the great impact that their praise and worship experience had on others?
So the sake of time…let’s fast forward. What about YOUR praise? What impact does it have on those who are bound? Does your praise radiate to the extent that it will cause an effect, which will promote a ground moving, door opening, chain shaking release in the realm of the spirit?
Effectiveness in the realm of the spirit is not determined by the intensity or the loudness of a sound. Effectiveness is produced from a sound which has authoritatively be released from someone who does not feel threaten by the actions or motives of those who are opposing them.
Paul and Silas, although locked in prison – were free men! It is only when we obtain the ability to remain focused and to keep our minds “free”…
– regardless to where we are;
- without regards to who we are around;
- and when we can yet take a “stand” in the midst of every chaotic situation…. that our praise will have the potency and will resonate with the influence as Paul and Silas’ did.
As a result of their praying and singing – the very earth itself could not be contained! We must realize that they didn’t wait until they were in prison and THEN begin to develop a relationship with the Lord. Their motive was not to break open the prison doors. Their motive was to do what should come natural for all of us – to simply give God the praise IN all things.
So back to our original question, “What about YOUR praise?”. In terms of effectiveness…. Is it powerful or pitiful? In terms of sincerity…Is it heartfelt or hollow?
Anyone can praise God, however not everyone can render an “effective praise”. You are not called to be ordinary. God has called, appointed and anointed you to be one of the ones whose praise WILL loosen the demonic entanglements of others.
Remember that this type of praise won’t be developed during your worship service! It must be cultivated during those times of intimacy with the Lord…..Then released at the appropriate time.
I would like to encourage you to re-read this story about Paul and Silas AGAIN! This time with your focus on the details. Then ask yourself “How can my praise render a more effective impact in the realm of the spirit?”
Seek the face of God and press into Him to the extent that your praise will automatically shift to the next level and “Break every chain, Break every chain, BREAK EVERY CHAIN!!!!”
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