Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God,that is the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15
The series of Old Testament sacrifices simply became a task to check-off for many of the Jewish people. They were going through the motions of praise mechanically, but they were absent a true heart of praise in sacrifice.
David (post Bathsheba episode) realized this shortcoming. From Psalm 51: “For You do not desire sacrifice, or I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart– these, O God, You will not despise.”
God is lovingly desirous of our praise. He is interested in it, because of His interest and love for us. For our sake, He desires praise from our heart. This is why our praise is a sacrifice. There are seasons when praise is easy, we desire to do so. However, there are others when praise is not naturally flowing, it is difficult. It is critical to praise God in those times, from the heart. We must realize God doesn’t need our praise. He doesn’t need anything from us. He desires our praise because He always has the best for us. It is an incredible privilege to be able to give to God something He really wants– the sacrifice of praise! A few verses regarding praise–
God is worthy of praise, Psalm 22:23– “You who fear the LORD, praise Him!”
Christ is worthy of praise, Rev. 5:12– “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!”
Due to Him because of His majesty, Psalm 96:4– “For the LORD is great and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.”
Due to His wisdom, Jude 1:25– “To God our Savior, Who alone is wise, Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever. Amen”
For His goodness and mercy, Psalm 118:1– “Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.”
For His salvation, Psalm 18:46– “The LORD lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let the God of my salvation be exalted.”
For His pardon of sin, spiritual health, and generosity, Psalm 103:1-5– “Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things.”
Praise the Lord. Maranatha!