Playlist: Fight Songs — Friday
Psalm 150:1-2
Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. (NIV)
One of my favorite memories from high school is getting to play snare drum in the marching band my freshman year.
Along with the friendships I made and my love of the snare, I thrived off the energy and excitement of performing. I loved playing the national anthem before every football game and chanting the fight song with the rest of the student section to get our team riled up. I loved getting to play at pep rallies and in band competitions, where we marched against other schools in the region to see which of us put on the best show.
But as we wrap up this week’s devotionals, I want to remind you of the much different purpose of our praise and worship. Our fight songs are not chanted for the purpose of raising morale or winning competitions; no, we praise God in order to exercise dependence on Him and His mighty strength. This is why we sing. This is how we fight.
As someone who struggles with pride and self-reliance, perhaps I need these reminders more than most: God is in control. I am not. God is powerful. I am not. God is faithful. I am not. God is perfect. I am not. God is strong. I am not. God alone is able. I am not. And yet, God calls me His own. He values me, loves me, leads me, renews me, redeems me, and calls me. My friend, the same is true for you.
Friday’s Reflection
Read and reflect on Psalm 150 today. As you do, consider these questions: What’s the point of my praise if not to express my deep need and desire for God and His strength? Am I chanting my fight song for the right reasons (to show gratitude, to exercise dependence, to glorify God) or for the wrong ones (to show off in front of others, to “fake it” at church, or for some other reason)? Why do I worship?