Owe You Praise

Abraham was resting in the heat of the day when the Lord appeared to him near the Oaks of Mamre. The moment Abraham recognized God’s presence, a couple of interesting things happened. The first thing Abraham did was bow down to worship. Lowering his position testified to the posture of his soul—that Abraham was willing to submit to God’s authority and presence in his life.

Immediately after this, Abraham sprang into action and began to serve. He instructed others to join him in preparing a meal. His wife began to make the bread. One of his servants prepared the meat. And Abraham went to work collecting the milk and side dishes. When he had the meal in hand, he offered it all to God as an act of service and worship.

Why did Abraham do all of this? Why was his heart drawn into this posture of willful submission? His response to God’s presence was about so much more than mere hospitality. Abraham understood something then that is critical for us to understand now.

When you recognize God for who He truly is, it changes who you are and how you behave.

This ancient story holds timeless truths that apply to us today. Worship is not just a slow song. Worship is a decision of the heart. As we incline ourselves to focus on God, who is worthy of our affection, we become like Him. Forming to the image of Jesus, we bend our nature to His purpose as we are drawn into a lifestyle of worship and praise. Hands that were stingy become selfless. Hearts that were calloused become compassionate. Bones that were dead catch a breath and come to life. And mouths that were once prone to gossip, slander, divisiveness, and anger turn into tools for encouraging others and adoring our Creator.

It’s far too easy for my mind to be drawn into spirals of negativity. I can lose sight of the value of keeping a grateful perspective. But I have found that remembering God’s nature compels me back into a state of worship.

How many ways have You been good to me, God? How much of my worship do You deserve? How many “thank yous” would ever be enough?

For the ways that You have made. For the price that You have paid. For Your mercies every day. That’s why I owe You praise!

Watch the live video for "Owe You Praise (Chandler Moore)" available now: https://youtu.be/UwvnX38025c?si=57xnNEfb1nldlQad