How to praise the LORD

Read Psalm 149.

Our culture and upbringing tend to shape how we are comfortable in praising God.  It is always interesting, refreshing, and sometimes uncomfortable to experience worship with believers who do it differently than we are used to.  Some want the architecture to be to their liking.  Most are inspired by a particular style of music.  Often churches are formal and structured, while others are very informal and casual.  As this book of songs builds to a loud and all-encompassing conclusion, notice the various ways Israel worshiped the LORD.

1. Singing. (v.1)
The context was when they assembled together for worship.  The content was a new song they sang.  When one embraces Jesus, He puts a different song in our hearts, even praise to our God.

2. Dancing. (v3a)
This is not social dancing but spiritual praise.  While the assembly sang the new song some expressed their praise through choreography.  When done well the visual display enhances the message.  It requires planning, work, and excellence to honor the LORD in this way.

3. Instruments. (v.3b)
Music in the Bible was accompanied, even led, by stringed instruments, various kinds of percussion, and horns.  Many think of the organ as the standard of traditional church music.  But historically the organ is a relatively newer invention.  Some churches even have a highly trained drumline used to praise the LORD.

4. Obeying. (vv.6-9)
Obviously, these verses are specific to Israel at the time.  However, the believer is in a spiritual war all the time.  Praising our faith without practicing our faith is hypocrisy.  We should be armed and ready to face the daily battles in obedience to the Word of God.

Any art form is appreciated according to individual taste.  The focus of worship is not how but Who is being praised.  Praise the LORD!