Praise More, Plead Less

"Seven times a day I praise You for Your righteous rules" (Ps. 119:164, ESV).

As I was reading back through my prayer journal from last year to see what God had done in my life, I noticed that I did a whole lot of pleading. The trend seemed to be what I thought I needed God to do for me, my circumstances, and even what I prayed for others in their lives. What I failed to see was more praising. This inspired me to create a praise section in my prayer journal. I now look each day at the blessings I have received and it prompts me to praise God throughout my day rather than just always pleading or requesting. I encourage you to take a look at your own prayer life and to be willing to praise more and plead less. God already knows what we need before we even ask Him. "For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him" (Matt 6:8b, NKJV).

The Psalms are full of praises for our Father. Try praying them back to God in a time of praise. Thank Him for the every day blessings you have received from Him. Try turning to Psalm 145 for starters, read it aloud for the Lord! You will get a warm, glowing feeling inside your heart as you praise Him. Know how much the Father adores you, so give some adoration back to Him with your praises. "Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!) Praise the Lord, O my soul" (Ps. 146:1, Amp)!

Accept the challenge to praise more and plead less.

"I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised" (Ps.18:3a, Amp).

Father, God, You are so worthy of all of our praise, thanksgiving, and gratitude. May we give You all of the praise You are due. Forgive our constant pleading with little praise. We love, honor, and cherish You, Father. Thank You for loving us so much that You sent Jesus to redeem us. In His powerful name we pray, Amen.