This chapter brought out my inner science nerd. The thought of a sword as a tuning instrument made me think of vibrations…and vibrations make sound…and sound makes praise…and praise means WORSHIP. And then I wondered what it must be like to see the Creation from God’s perspective. We look at the heavens from earth and marvel at the silent beauty, but did you know the heavens make music?
If you want to find inspiration for great praise songs, turn to the book of Psalms. Had you ever thought about your Sword containing songs of praise and worship to the Creator? Check out Psalms 148 today, then I want you to spend a little time watching this amazing video of Louis Giglio (God’s science nerd Supreme)
The sensitive microphones attached to the massive telescopes have recorded the stars singing praises to their Creator. The streams babble and the waves crash. The animals communicate and so do the humans. If the rocks can cry out in praise for the Father, why do we hold back? Take a few moments to consider How Great is Our God!?! He is Great and He is Worthy to be praised.
Lisa begins this chapter with the introduction of a truly amazing sword. I had seen flaming bladed swords on cartoons and movies, but never even considered they were a real thing. To learn that they were used in battle and were an asset to the one wielding the sword was truly amazing. My mind immediately went to the Garden of Eden and the angel with the flaming sword guarding the eastern gate to prevent Adam and Eve (and sin) from re-entering. As I studied, I found that most references to this kind of sword are inspired from the Bible accounts.
This sword causes vibrations which loosen the opponents grip and cause them to lose footing. The vibrations give the sword-bearer the upper hand. The same thing happens when the created ones praise the Creator. The power is in the praise. Lisa says, “as we sing…especially when we sing the Word…the airwaves begin to vibrate with sound, and the grip of the enemy slips as the friction between light and darkness increases” (p. 168). When we sing praises to God, the Father, the Creator, we join our vibrations with other humans, animals, and His creation to return thanks and worship to One Worthy to be praised.
The other thought that has plagued my mind today is this: If I get my feelings hurt when one of my kids withholds “thank you’s” and “I love you’s”, then how much more must God be hurt by our selfishness? The Psalms are full of examples of showing gratitude to the Father for everything that happens in our lives—good and bad. I don’t want to be an ungrateful child. I want to show my love and adoration unconditional. If you need guidance or a place to start, begin in Psalms and let your heart worship with the psalmist.
Today, let’s consider our favorite “ways to praise” or our favorite praise music and share it with someone. How Great Is Our God is one of my favorites from Chris Tomlin and Louis Giglio.
Share a link or verse or words from your favorite Praise and Worship music.
To God be the Glory!
Let Us Praise:
Psalms 148:13-14
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. And he has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his faithful servants, of Israel, the people close to his heart. Praise the Lord!
Father, we want to be people close to Your heart. Forgive us when we forget to say ‘Thank You’ and ‘We Love You.’ Thank You for the glimpse into what You must hear on Your side of heaven. My heart is forever changed. Love You, Abba AMEN
