9. A Life of Praise - August 20-26

Sabbath afternoon

Prayer Thought

God desired that the whole life of His people should be a life of praise. Thus His way was to be made "known upon earth," His "saving health among all nations." Psalm 67:2. {COL 298.4}

"Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). Those who do this have a joyous life. No unpleasantness comes from their lips or from the atmosphere surrounding the soul, for they do not feel that they are better than others. Hide in Jesus Christ; then all the time the truth of God will be fitting you up for the future, immortal life. When you have confidence in the Mighty One, your experience is not borrowed; it is your own.--MS 91, 1901. {2MCP 651.1}

Memory Text

Rejoice in the Lord always: [and] again I say, Rejoice. {Philippians 4:4}

Please visit this link for the Memory Verses Songs {click or copy-paste to your browser} https://youtu.be/0JC_QO3SHP4

This week's SS Lesson will dive into the composition of praises of those who had been inspired by God's Spirit as they experience the challenges and circumstances in life, which paves the structure of their song. It involves a personal attitude toward life's struggles and overcoming the darts of Satan, establishing their faith in God's appointed agencies.

Outline of the Study

Sunday: Framework for Praise (What is Praise?) - Phil. 4:4-7

Monday: Praying Down Walls (How to live a life of Praise?) - Joshua 5:13-6:20; Heb. 11:30; Ps. 66:1, 2

Tuesday: The Life of Praise (Praise that tears down walls) - Ps. 145

Wednesday: A Witness Who Convicts (Praise as our Testimony) - Acts 16:29, 30; Phil. 1:29. 30

Thursday: A Weapon That Conquers (Praise before Victory) - 2Chron. 20:1-30

Friday: The Further Study and Meditation

Increasing Happiness Throughout Eternity

As through Jesus we enter into rest, heaven begins here. We respond to His invitation, Come, learn of Me, and in thus coming we begin the life eternal. Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The longer we are in the heaven of bliss, the more and still more of glory will be opened to us; and the more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness. As we walk with Jesus in this life, we may be filled with His love, satisfied with His presence. {2MCP 651.2}

Sunday: Framework for Praise (What is Praise?) - Phil. 4:4-7

“Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness [is] unsearchable." (Psalm 145:3}

Miracle-working Power of God cause Righteousness and Praise

"As the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth." Isaiah 61:11. As in the natural, so in the spiritual sowing; the teacher of truth must seek to prepare the soil of the heart; he must sow the seed; but the power that alone can produce life is from God. There is a point beyond which human effort is in vain. While we are to preach the word, we can not impart the power that will quicken the soul, and cause righteousness and praise to spring forth. In the preaching of the word there must be the working of an agency beyond any human power. Only through the divine Spirit will the word be living and powerful to renew the soul unto eternal life. This is what Christ tried to impress upon His disciples. He taught that it was nothing they possessed in themselves which would give success to their labors, but that it is the miracle-working power of God which gives efficiency to His own word. {COL 63.3}

Every part of God's dominion is to be filled with His glory. What, then, is the church doing to enlighten the world, that from all parts of the earth a tribute of praise and prayer and thanksgiving may ascend to Him?--Letter 124, 1902.

Laborers cooperate with God - Praises be Directed to God, not Man

The talent of knowledge, sanctified and put to use in the Master's service, is never lost. A self-sacrificing effort to do good will be crowned with success. "We are laborers together with God." 1 Corinthians 3:9. The Lord will co-operate with the human worker. To Him is to be given the praise and the glory for what we are able to accomplish. {CT 451.1}

Without Praise - Appreciation from Others

We must do our work purely and faithfully even though there is no one in the world to say, "It is well done." Our lives must be just what God designs they shall be--faithful in good words, in kind and thoughtful deeds, in the expression of meekness, purity, and love. Thus we represent Christ to the world. . . . {Ev 630.1}

The toilworn men, who are now first and foremost in the great work of saving souls, are the ones whom God will honor.--Letter 120, 1898. {Ev 630.2}

When His name is mentioned He wants it to strike the keynote, and there will be a response in your hearts. Then you can offer up thanksgiving and glory and honor and praise to Him that sitteth on the throne and to the Lamb. {FW 78.3}

Intercession to Unite Us is being Done by Christ in the Sanctuary

The daily blessings that we receive from the hand of God, and above all else the death of Jesus to bring happiness and heaven within our reach, should be a theme for constant gratitude. What compassion, what matchless love, has God shown to us, lost sinners, in connecting us with Himself, to be to Him a peculiar treasure! . . . We should praise God for the blessed hope held out before us in the great plan of redemption, we should praise Him for the heavenly inheritance and for His rich promises; praise Him that Jesus lives to intercede for us. . . . {AG 352.3}

All the inhabitants of heaven unite in praising God. Let us learn the song of the angels now, that we may sing it when we join their shining ranks. Let us say with the psalmist, "While I live, will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being" (Psalm 146:2). "Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee" (Psalm 67:5). {AG 352.4}

Consider the Following

Psalm 145 introduces praise as seeing what God has done, remembering it, and talking about it.

Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; Him shalt thou serve, and to Him shalt thou cleave, and swear by His name. He is thy praise, and He is thy God." {FE 477.2}

Christ said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Let your light so shine that the glory will redound to God instead of to yourselves. If the praise comes to you, well may you tremble and be ashamed, for the great object is defeated; it is not God, but the servant, that is magnified. Let your light so shine; be careful, minister of Christ, in what manner your light shines. If it flashes heavenward, revealing the excellence of Christ, it shines aright. If it is turned upon yourself, if you exhibit yourself, and attract the people to admire you, it would be better for you to hold your peace altogether; for your light shines in the wrong way. {GW92 18.3}

Monday: Praying Down Walls (How to live a life of Praise?) - Joshua 5:13-6:20; Heb. 11:30; Ps. 66:1, 2

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Rejoice in the Lord Always

Those who do this have a joyous life. No unpleasantness comes from their lips or from the atmosphere surrounding the soul, for they do not feel that they are better than others. Hide in Jesus Christ; then all the time the truth of God will be fitting you up for the future, immortal life. When you have confidence in the Mighty One, your experience is not borrowed; it is your own.--MS 91, 1901. {2MCP 651.1}

Increasing Happiness Throughout Eternity

As through Jesus we enter into rest, heaven begins here. We respond to His invitation, Come, learn of Me, and in thus coming we begin the life eternal. Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The longer we are in the heaven of bliss, the more and still more of glory will be opened to us; and the more we know of God, the more intense will be our happiness. As we walk with Jesus in this life, we may be filled with His love, satisfied with His presence. {2MCP 651.2}

The Beginning of Good Work Started will be Perfected in Christ

"I rejoice that in everything I am of good courage concerning you." "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;" "being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is right for me to be thus minded on behalf of you all, because I have you in my heart." "Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved." "Now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord." Verse 16, A.R.V.; Philippians 1:3-5; 1:6, 7, A.R.V.; 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 3:8. {MH 167.1}

Consider the Following

Paul encouraged us to joyfully praise God all the time and under any circumstance (Philippians 4:4-6). Even when we can’t find a reason to praise Him or we just don’t feel like it.

Praise is an act of faith. We praise God for who He is, for what He’s doing, and for what He’ll do. Praise doesn’t depend on our feelings or our reasoning (although both are involved in praise).

The harder the circumstances, the more we need to praise God. Praising Him will transform our thoughts and our feelings.

A Paul may plant, an Apollos water, but God gives the increase. The Lord uses some men to plow the field and to sow the seed, and others to reap; and He causes both those who sow and those who reap to rejoice together in the time of harvest. This is the way the Lord has always worked. He has given to every man his work. Let us do our best. If the Lord is with us, we shall be prospered.... {RY 76.3}

Tuesday: The Life of Praise (Praise that tears down walls) - Ps. 145

““And the seventh time it happened, when the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua said to the people: ‘Shout, for the Lord has given you the city!’” (Joshua 6:16)

Jericho fell down by Faith

God will do great things for those who trust in Him. The reason why His professed people have no greater strength is that they trust so much to their own wisdom, and do not give the Lord an opportunity to reveal His power in their behalf. He will help His believing children in every emergency if they will place their entire confidence in Him and faithfully obey Him. {PP 493.2}

Soon after the fall of Jericho, Joshua determined to attack Ai, a small town among the ravines a few miles to the west of the Jordan Valley. Spies sent to this place brought back the report that the inhabitants were but few, and that only a small force would be needed to overthrow it. {PP 493.3}

Question to Ponder! Think about the Answer

Will that bring darkness and gloom into your families? No, indeed; it will bring a sunbeam. It will be the gathering of rays of eternal light from the throne of glory, and scattering them around you. Let me exhort you to engage in this work, scatter this light and life around you, not only in your own path, but in the paths of others with whom you associate. Let it be your object to make those around you better; to elevate them; to point them to Heaven and glory and lead them to seek, above all earthly things, the eternal substance, the immortal inheritance, and the riches which are imperishable. {RH, May 31, 1870 par. 18}

The Song is a Weapon Against Discouragement

Song is a weapon that we can always use against discouragement. As we thus open the heart to the sunlight of the Saviour's presence, we shall have health and his blessing.

"Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: For his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy."

"Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: Talk ye of all his wondrous works. Glory ye in his holy name: Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord." {RH, June 2, 1910 par. 9}

"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18. This command is an assurance that even the things which appear to be against us will work for our good. God would not bid us be thankful for that which would do us harm.

Consider the Following

Evidently, Joshua was worried. How could they conquer Jericho?

God visited Joshua and requested an act of praise (Joshua 5:13-15).

Then, He gave Joshua detailed instructions to conquer the city. Those instructions were based on God’s power.

The walls fell only after they praised the Lord with trumpets and a loud shout (Joshua 6:12-16, 20).

Perfection Reflects God's Glory to the World

"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." "Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain." The Lord appeared unto Abraham, and said, "Walk before me, and be thou perfect." Enoch walked with God three hundred years. "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God." "Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily." {YI, August 31, 1893 par. 1}

Wednesday: A Witness Who Convicts (Praise as our Testimony) - Acts 16:29, 30; Phil. 1:29. 30

““But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.” (Acts 16:25)

Confession of God's Faithfulness a Power to Save

Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven's chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. We are to acknowledge His grace as made known through the holy men of old; but that which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essentially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked by our own individuality. These precious acknowledgments to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have an irresistible power, that works for the salvation of souls.--The Desire of Ages, p. 347. {ChS 16.3}

Praise and Prayer Cultivate Attributes of Character fit to Heaven

To praise God in fulness and sincerity of heart is as much a duty as is prayer. We are to show to the world and to all the heavenly intelligences that we appreciate the wonderful love of God for fallen humanity, and that we are expecting larger and yet larger blessings from His infinite fulness. . . . After a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit, our joy in the Lord and our efficiency in His service would be greatly increased by recounting His goodness and His wonderful works in behalf of His children. These exercises drive back the power of Satan. They expel the spirit of murmuring and complaint, and the tempter loses ground. They cultivate those attributes of character which will fit the dwellers on earth for the heavenly mansions. Such a testimony will have an influence upon others. No more effective means can be employed for winning souls to Christ.--Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 299, 300. {ChS 213.2}

Consider the Following

Paul and Silas are a good example of praise and joy in the crucible. Despite their bleeding wounds caused by the rods and the uncomfortable position of the stocks, they were praying loudly… and singing hymns!

Their joy didn’t rely on the circumstances. They found joy in doing the will of He who had redeemed them.

Their praise was a testimony for the prisoners and for the guards. The prisoners could’ve left after the earthquake, but they remained in their cells. The guard asked immediately: “what must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30).

Victorious Life has an Irresistible Power to save souls

The Lord calls upon us for confession of His goodness. . . . Our confession of His faithfulness is Heaven's chosen agency for revealing Christ to the world. We are to acknowledge His grace as made known through the holy men of old; but that which will be most effectual is the testimony of our own experience. We are witnesses for God as we reveal in ourselves the working of a power that is divine. Every individual has a life distinct from all others, and an experience differing essentially from theirs. God desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked by our own individuality. These precious acknowledgements to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have an irresistible power that works for the salvation of souls. {AG 277.2}

Thursday: A Weapon That Conquers (Praise before Victory) - 2Chron. 20:1-30

““And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: ‘Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever.’” (2Chr. 20:21)

Singing Praises before the Victory

"And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa." 2 Chronicles 20:20. Before the army went singers, lifting their voices in praise to God--praising Him for the victory promised. {Ed 163.3}

On the fourth day thereafter, the army returned to Jerusalem, laden with the spoil of their enemies, singing praise for the victory won. {Ed 163.4}

Song amidst the Vicissitudes (Unpleasant Circumstances)

Through song, David, amidst the vicissitudes of his changeful life, held communion with heaven. How sweetly are his experiences as a shepherd lad reflected in the words:

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. . . . Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me." Psalm 23:1-4. {Ed 164.1}

In his manhood a hunted fugitive, finding refuge in the rocks and caves of the wilderness, he wrote: "O God, Thou art my God; early will I seek Thee: My soul thirsteth for Thee, my flesh longeth for Thee, In a dry and weary land, where no water is. . . . Thou hast been my help, And in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice." "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: For I shall yet praise Him, Who is the health of my countenance, And my God." "The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 63:1-7, R.V.; 42:11; 27:1. {Ed 164.2}

Consider the Following

When Jehoshaphat realized a great army was coming, he ordered the people to fast and acknowledged his impotence before everyone. Then he asked for God’s help (2 Chronicles 20:1-12).

God responded his prayer by giving instructions for the battle to prophet Jahaziel: they wouldn’t have to fight; God would fight for them (2 Chronicles 20:14-17).

Then, Jehoshaphat and the people worshipped (2 Chronicles 20:18). They were so sure that they’d be victorious that the Levites were placed in the frontline to praise God for the victory He was going to provide (2 Chronicles 20:20-21).

Let’s praise God for the great wonders He’s going to do in our lives.

Singers, not the army are at the Forefront of the Battle

Early in the morning they rose and went into the wilderness of Tekoa. As they advanced to the battle, Jehoshaphat said, "Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established: believe His prophets, so shall ye prosper." "And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the Lord, and that should praise the beauty of holiness." 2 Chronicles 20:14-21. These singers went before the army, lifting their voices in praise to God for the promise of victory. {PK 201.4}

Friday: The Further Study and Meditation

Let us educate our souls to be hopeful and to abide in the light shining from the cross of Calvary. Never should we forget that we are children of the heavenly King, sons and daughters of the Lord of hosts. It is our privilege to maintain a calm repose in God. {MH 253.1}

"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts; . . . and be ye thankful." Colossians 3:15. Forgetting our own difficulties and troubles, let us praise God for an opportunity to live for the glory of His name. Let the fresh blessings of each new day awaken praise in our hearts for these tokens of His loving care. When you open your eyes in the morning, thank God that He has kept you through the night. Thank Him for His peace in your heart. Morning, noon, and night, let gratitude as a sweet perfume ascend to heaven. {MH 253.2}

Questions to Ponder

1. Can we praise God in our difficulties? How could this praise be our spiritual weapon amidst the crucibles?

2. In what way does praise change our lives as we face different trials and sufferings?

3. In Sunday's Lesson - how does Paul describe the truth about happiness in God through imprisonments that enable him to sing praises?

4. How does faith causes the walls of Jericho to fall down? Does it imply what man can do through God's enabling power to overcome the difficulties in our lives?

5. Can you describe the Life of Praise developed in a Christian? How can we make them a habit and become our character?

6. Do you think that our complaints sometimes affect the lives of others around us? Review Wednesday's lesson, what can we learn from the experience of Paul and Silas?

7. Based on the passage above {MH 253.1, 2}, How can we educate ourselves through the crucibles in attacking every day? And where can we get the power to be an overcomer against the darts of Satan?

From the Pen of Inspiration

“If the loving-kindness of God called forth more thanksgiving and praise, we would have far more power in prayer. We would abound more and more in the love of God and have more bestowed to praise Him for. You who complain that God does not hear your prayers, change your present order and mingle praise with your petitions. When you consider His goodness and mercies you will find that He will consider your wants.” E. G. W. (Testimonies for the Church, book 5, cp. 34, p. 317)

SSL-Q3-L8-A-Lifw-of-Praise-Aug.-20-26-2022 (fliphtml5.com)