By Russell F. Metcalfe, Jr. - Pastor, Poughkeepsie, New York
September 11, 1968
It is strange but true that many people have discovered the way of salvation who have not yet discovered the "high road” of praise that is actually a 'way within a way.” It may be possible, but it certainly isn't necessary to drag about half-dead and chronically discouraged on the pathway to heaven, and it isn't very good public relations, either.
As never before, in my lifetime at least, people young and old are seeking for a way of meaning and peace and joy, seeking for a religion that really works in this life as well as the next. And the answer is spiritual reality. We may know we have it - but shows when we determine to go the “way of praise"!
Psalms 34 - in part - describes the praise of God. David assures us that embracing the way of praise is not for the damp palm or the faint heart.
I will bless the Lord at all times. In other words, if you decide to go the high road you will he expected to praise God in adversity as well as in advancement.
His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Others have developed the habit of profanity-you are to cultivate the habit of praising God. The upward glance of love -the whispered appreciation to God for blessings through each day- these overtures will not go unappreciated by the Heavenly Father. And His response to you is blessing indeed!
My Soul shall make her boast in the Lord. The way of praise also means an end to garden variety, run-of-the-mill bragging. It just won't suffice anymore. God wants exceptional boasters. But instead of being selfish and ugly and sickening, this kind of bragging on the goodness or God is a source of encouragement to other children of God, and it can’t hurt the ‘image’ with outsiders either! True praise never does!
It may seem, or at least a little insincere all at once to make a decision to become a praiser of God, but silly is the last thing praise is, for it cannot be sincerely attempted without bringing its own warmth and blessing.
There will be critics and detractors perhaps, but praise of God from a pure and sincere heart is always in order and always God-blessed. And as to sincerity, amazingly enough, when you praise God because you know you “ought” even though you don't think you “feel,” you find soon that the will to praise God engenders the very spirit and breath of praise!
Here are five practical suggestions for those who would take this "high road" within the "way of salvation." (Mind you, this is for those who have already settled the sin question through true repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. ')
ONE: Make a promise. Tell yourself you will try by God's help to do more praising of God, beginning now. Promise yourself and tell God, and tell one other person.
TWO: Make a list. In your devotions the next few days write down all the things you couldn't buy that God has given you, like family, friends, a mind, job, sunsets, feet, a nose - whatever comes to you as you meditate. Thank God specifically for each thing.
THREE: Make an effort. …to be in prayer meeting, that is…and to testify more often and more freshly. Don't moan and groan. Don't criticize. Praise the Lord!
FOUR: Make a request of God. Ask Him to be able to praise Him in a natural way to an “outsider.” If God has been good to you, just tell it like it is. And the Lord will provide the opportunity if you ask.
FIVE: Don't quit. Praise is a habit. Like many other good things, it requires a fair and honest effort. It will be worth every effort you make.
Holiness people ought to be exponents of this high road of praise! Alone, and as a people (Let us exalt His name together!'), we will find that praise not only brings deliverance from fear and trouble, but it takes us off the defensive position and takes the initiative in spiritual warfare. Deliberately, let us choose to go the high way of praise.