Discovering How “God Inhabits The Praises Of His People” Through Psalm 22

Our Lord, the architect and redeemer of our lives, deserves unending admiration. Scripture often underlines the significance of worshiping God. However, the statement “God dwells in the praises of His people” sometimes prompts followers to seek further understanding.

What does it mean for God to “inhabit” praise? Understanding this phrase and its scriptural context is crucial for believers to fully praise God.

What Does It Mean That God Inhabits The Praises Of His People?

The phrase “God inhabits the praises of His people” is derived from the King James Version of Psalm 22:3, which states, “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” This phrase is often used to inspire active, expressive worship in the church.

Different Bible versions express this differently, but all convey God’s holiness and His presence in our praise. The Hebrew words “qadosh” (holy), “yashab” (dwell), and “tehillah” (praise) are key to understanding this. God, the Holy One, dwells in our praise, signifying His presence among us when we worship Him.

What Does It Mean To “Inhabit?”

The term “inhabit” in “God Inhabits The Praises Of His People” can be understood as God dwelling within, resting in, or sitting upon His people’s songs of worship and adoration. We rejoice in praising God, who delights in our worship. While God is omnipresent[1], His presence is particularly powerful when we praise Him. Psalm 22:3 promises that God dwells in our praises, making worship a meeting place with God and His Holy Spirit.

Where Does The Bible Say That God Inhabits The Praises Of His People?

Psalm 22, a prophetic psalm of David, serves as a bridge between the Old Testament and Jesus’ passion. It’s divided into two sections: a plea for help (verses 1–21a) and a song of praise (verses 21b–31).

David, feeling abandoned by God, pleads for help, recalling past rescues and expressing faith in God’s deliverance. The psalm opens with Jesus on the cross, asking, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” Despite his suffering, he affirms his faith: “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel” (Psalm 22:3, ESV).

This verse, unique to Psalm 22:3, suggests that God, though holy, is accessible to us, inhabiting the praises of His people. This concept implies that God’s kingdom could be the Tabernacle, a place of constant praise. Despite his suffering, the Messiah remembers this place of praise and affirms God’s holiness and worthiness of adoration.

The Messiah expresses complete trust in God in Psalm 22:3, confident in God’s presence and control even in his hour of greatest need. He knows he hasn’t been abandoned by God the Father, who is executing His sovereign plan. The Messiah’s arrival is imminent (see Psalm 22:4–5).

How Does God Inhabit The Praises Of His People?

God inhabits the praises of His people, a biblical truth echoed throughout the scriptures. God’s ultimate dwelling is not in a distant heaven but among His people (Revelation 21:3), with the church serving as His temple (1 Corinthians 3:16–17).

We are called to continually praise God (Hebrews 13:15), recognizing His worthiness. As His chosen ones, we voice His praises (2 Peter 2:9).

God, sharing our human experiences, dwells among us. Jesus taught that abiding with Him is akin to abiding with the Father and promised the eternal presence of the Spirit of Truth (John 14:6).

Worship is about focusing on God, assigning Him value, and allowing Him to reach our hearts and minds through our praise.

God dwells in all who are reborn. Engaging in the church community allows believers to experience God’s presence and glory. We are called to worship Him in spirit and truth.

Psalms are integral to Christian worship, providing a comprehensive view of God’s salvation plan. As God’s representatives, we live a life of praise, mirroring God’s glory.

Commitment to God’s word and plan, along with honoring Him in our words and actions, allows His power to dwell in us and shine through us. Upon becoming believers, the Holy Spirit resides in our hearts, manifesting His power in our lives.

How Do We Give Praise To God?

We give praise to God as an expression of our love and admiration for Him. As recommended in the book of Hebrews, our praise should be a continuous offering. This can be articulated through words in the form of prayers or songs, or through other expressive forms such as dance or art.

Psalms, such as Psalm 145, provide examples of praise. Remembering that all we have is a gift from God, we’re encouraged to celebrate, pray, and express gratitude in all situations.

As God’s chosen ones, we’re called to proclaim His praises (2 Peter 2:9). This can be done individually or collectively, through congregational singing. Praise isn’t limited to oral or musical expression; it can also be expressed through writing, bowing in reverence, or simply acknowledging God as our creator and savior.

Summary

Psalm 22:3 reminds us of God’s holiness and omnipresence, encouraging trust in Him. Despite our pain or unanswered prayers, praising Him amplifies His presence. As we draw near, acknowledge, and honor Him through praise, He is ready to respond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does It Mean For God To Inhabit The Praises Of His People?

God inhabiting the praises of his people means that during worship, there is a deepening of God’s presence. It suggests that God values the praises of His followers and responds to them. These acts of worship serve as a spiritual connection to God, leading to transformation and peace for the worshippers.

Why Is Praise Important To God?

Praise is important to God as it allows us to express our love and admiration for Him, acknowledge His greatness, and fulfill the commandments in the Bible. God takes delight in our praises. Praise also fosters a spiritual connection with God and often leads to transformation and peace for worshippers. Essentially, praise serves as a bridge between God and His worshippers.

What Does Inhabit Mean In The Bible?

In the Bible, the term “inhabit” means to dwell, live, or abide in a place. It originates from the Hebrew words “yashabh,” meaning “to sit,” “remain,” or “dwell,” and “shakhen,” meaning “to settle down” or “tabernacle.” In the context of “God inhabits the praises of His people,” it conveys the idea that God dwells within, rests in, or sits upon the songs of worship and adoration offered by His people.