Praise is an integral aspect of worship and a vital expression of our relationship with God. Throughout the Bible, praise is depicted as a powerful and transformative act, one that not only honors God but also realigns our hearts and minds with His divine presence. We’ll look at seven biblical ways to praise God, providing insight into the depth and breadth of this spiritual practice.
Straight From the Bible: Seven Ways to Praise God
1. Barak (Kneeling, Blessing)
Definition: Barak means to kneel or to bless God as an act of adoration. It implies a posture of humility and reverence.
Biblical Context: Psalms often refer to this form of praise. For example, Psalm 95:6 invites us, “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel (barak) before the Lord our Maker.”
Application: You can practice Barak by physically kneeling in prayer or by mentally submitting to God’s authority. It’s a gesture of surrender and acknowledgment of God’s supreme power.
2. Halal (Raving, Boasting)
Definition: Halal is the root word for “hallelujah” and involves clear, exuberant expressions of praise. It means to boast, rave about, or celebrate God extravagantly.
Biblical Context: This type of praise is seen in Psalm 149:3, “Let them praise (halal) His name with dancing and make music to Him with timbrel and harp.”
Application: Embrace moments of joyous worship, whether it’s through singing loudly, dancing, or expressing verbal adoration. Halal is about letting go of inhibitions and celebrating God’s greatness with all your being.
3. Tehillah (Singing Praises)
Definition: Tehillah refers to singing praises to God. Unlike general worship songs, Tehillah is spontaneous and inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Biblical Context: “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise (tehillah) to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him” (Psalm 40:3).
Application: Engage in personal or communal worship by singing new, spontaneous songs from your heart to God. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your words and melodies.
4. Towdah (Thanksgiving, Offering)
Definition: Towdah means to give thanks or offer praise as an acknowledgment of what God has done or will do. It involves extending hands in thanksgiving for things not yet received as well as those already at hand.
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Biblical Context: “Enter His gates with thanksgiving (towdah) and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name” (Psalm 100:4).
Application: Practice Towdah by thanking God in advance for His answers to your prayers and for His faithfulness. This form of praise deepens your trust and reliance on Him.
5. Yadah (Extending Hands, Throwing)
Definition: Yadah means to extend the hands in praise or to throw out the hands in a gesture of surrender. It is a physical demonstration of yielding to God’s power and mercy.
Biblical Context: “Let us lift up our hearts and hands (yadah) to God in heaven” (Lamentations 3:41).
Application: In your time of worship, physically extend your hands to God as a sign of surrender and acknowledgment of his majesty. Let this act symbolize the casting of your cares and praises onto Him.
6. Zamar (Making Music)
Definition: Zamar means making music to God with strings; it implies celebrating His sovereignty and goodness through musical expression.
Biblical Context: “I will praise You, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of You among the peoples. For great is Your love, reaching to the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the skies” (Psalm 57:9-10).
Application: Use musical instruments to offer God praise. Whether you’re skilled or simply making a joyful noise, let the music express your adoration and gratitude.
7. Shabach (Loud Praise, Shouting)
Definition: Shabach means to shout loudly or command. It’s an exhortation of triumph and power, often used in the context of victory and celebration.
Biblical Context: “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music” (Psalm 98:4).
Application: Don’t be afraid to raise your voice in praise. Whether in personal prayer or in corporate worship, use Shabach to declare God’s glory and victory over your life.
