Praise that Opens Gates
- Bishop Keith Butler
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. (Psalm 100:1-5)
Psalm 100 serves as both an invitation and a set of instructions. It’s not just a poetic reminder to worship; it also explains how to do it, why we should, and the attitude we should have when approaching God.
“Come before His presence with singing” shows that entering God’s presence is a deliberate act. The singers intended to approach God. It wasn’t about their skill or musical talent; it was about aligning their hearts with His.
That alignment leads to the next part of the Psalm, which focuses on our identity. “Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.” We remember we belong to Him. He created us and has a plan for our lives. After singing with alignment and understanding of our identity, the next step to access His presence is: “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise.” God has given us access to His presence, His courts, and His throne room. The proper response is continual praise.
Finally, the Psalm ends with confidence: “For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” We praise because God is unchanging. God is good, full of mercy, love, and always faithful. To live aware of God’s presence, you must practice thanksgiving.
Practical Application
Use praise to reorient your mind. When doubt shows up or fear screams at you, make a point to praise God with your words or with song. It must be vocal—your mind will listen to what you declare.
Psalm 95:2; Psalm 138:1
