Ezra 3:11
“And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD: ‘For He is good, for His mercy endures forever…’”
It is always a great day when God’s people sing His praises. In this passage, the people shouted for joy because “the foundation of the of the Lord was laid” (Ezra 3:12). The scene was more conducive to humility than pride. Yet isn’t humility the seed from which heartfelt worship is born? A heart bowed down before Almighty God often utters the sweetest praise.
Ezra records a moment of small beginnings—no temple or ark was present, no manifestation of glory—but no small praise. Notice the words praising and giving thanks. These are public boastful shouts of joy for God’s goodness and lovingkindness to His people. This is singing that is active, alive, and loud!
Sadly, many Christians suffer spiritual anemia because they forgo the worship service or sit as silent spectators while others sing with joyful abandon. A heart that is not thankful is a sad and isolated soul that fails to see God in all things. May that never be true of us.
The priests stood in their apparel with trumpets, and the Levites, the sons of Asaph, with cymbals and sang responsively praising and giving thanks to the LORD for His goodness and mercy. And then all the people followed with a great shout of praise.
What about you, dear saint? Has your spiritual foundation been restored? Shout out to God today! Are you filled with gratitude for His manifold blessings? Do not delay. Sing Him a song of praise. For He is more than worthy!
Awaiting His Return,
– Pastor Jack
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