Childlike Praise (encore)
“Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger" (Psalm 8:2, NIV).
Psalm 8 declares the majesty of the Lord's name throughout all the earth. God has done marvelous things in Creation. Look at a sunset, gaze at a starry night, and tell me you aren't moved by God's glory! Not only that, but when we see the immensity of God's Universe and consider his vast power, we realize our humble estate. What a great honor and privilege that the Creator would be mindful of us! He is worthy of our worship.
When I read verse 2, I couldn't help but think of Jesus's words in Matthew 18:3. "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Kids are so amazed by simple things we take for granted. They find wonder in little things we don't even notice anymore. My son, Elliot, is fascinated by bugs. He loves to go outside and dig for worms and catch ladybugs. Watching them flit around in a jar brings him so much delight. When was the last time I was delighted by the things God has made for us to enjoy, even the simple things?
We get so busy with work and family obligations, so burdened by life's cares and anxieties, we sometimes forget that the praise of God is our stronghold in a chaotic world. The Lord is our Rock who doesn't move among the shifting sands of society. Worship is the bedrock of our lives, and when we have the attitude of a child–amazed and delighted and filled with wonder by the beauty and majesty of our God–then we will find our footing sure and our hearts light. My prayer for us this week is that we will be delighted by God and respond with praise.