In the process of information gathering, every journalist has to ask what is called the “Five Ws.” Those five are: Who, What, When, Where, and Why. In addition to these five questions, the journalist must also ask “How.” As one studies a Biblical subject, it is sometimes wise to ask these questions. There are also times as we study it seems that the Biblical writers asked the same questions. The same is true in Psalm 150 when the Psalmist answered all six questions concerning the topic of praise.
Who should be praised? The God of all is to be praised (v. 1). The mention of the LORD being the ONLY one to whom praise is given lets the reader know who is not to be praised. Men, false idols, and self are not those deserving of praise. It is God and God alone who is truly worthy.
Where should He be praised? While there is some debate on the “sanctuary” and “firmament of His power,” there is one common thing upon which all agree. The praise which man is to do is here on earth. The location would vary depending on which time in history but all agree that man is to praise God while man still has time.
Why should He be praised? He is to be praised according to “His mighty deeds” and “His exceeding greatness.” God is to be praised for who He is and what He has done. Consider His mighty deeds for a moment. Everything came into existence from the sound of his voice (Genesis 1). The sky over our heads, the earth upon which we walk, the waters which sustain all life, and everything in between was created by God (Psalm 146:6). This alone tells us not only His “mighty deeds” but also His “exceeding greatness” (Isaiah 52:7-10).
How should He be praised? Remembering, this is under the Mosaic Law and not the Law of Christ these statements should not to be confused with a decree for instrumental music in worship. Instead, the Psalmist calls for unabashed worship of God. John Willis wrote that the instruments “joined in growing reverberation of praise until together they reached a mighty crescendo.” God’s mighty deeds were not performed in shame. Neither should praise to God. Instead, this praise should be given without hesitation, albeit without making a show of your “religion” (Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18).
Who should praise Him? “Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD.” That really narrows things down a bit. The Psalmist calls for a “universal” praise from every man directed to the Lord. It was in man which God breathed the breath of life (Genesis 2:7). Shouldn’t that breath be used in praise to the One who gave it?
When should the praise be given? It should be given now. In each section the writer states that we should “praise the LORD.” That’s present tense and signifies that the praise is to occur now while we are here on earth.
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