Daily Devotions

Is there a Difference Between Praise and Worship? You have probably heard the terms praise and worship used interchangeably in church. Are they really the same thing?

Praise is an expression of gratitude towards God because of what He has done. 

Worship is entering into God’s presence and having  reverence for who He is. Worship declares Him worthy.

The difference between praise and worship is how we approach them. By practicing praise in our daily lives, we will live in a state of worship. It is hard to separate the two. Worship gives praise to God, and praise is an element of that worship. 

Graham Kendrick says, “Worship has been misunderstood as something that arises from a feeling which "comes upon you," but it is vital that we understand that it is rooted in a conscious act of the will, to serve and obey the Lord Jesus Christ.” He also quotes Lamar Boschman"Worship is first and foremost for His benefit, not ours, though it is marvellous to discover that in giving Him pleasure, we ourselves enter into what can become our richest and most wholesome experience in life."

Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) was present at the Vienna Music Hall, where his oratorio The Creation was being performed.  Weakened by age, the great composer was confined to a wheelchair.  As the majestic work moved along, the audience was caught up with tremendous emotion. When the passage "And there was light!" was reached, the chorus and orchestra burst forth in such power that the crowd could no longer restrain its enthusiasm.

The vast assembly rose in spontaneous applause.  Haydn struggled to stand and motioned for silence. With his hand pointed toward heaven, he said, "No, no, not from me, but from thence comes all!" Having given the glory and praise to the Creator, he fell back into his chair exhausted.

Worship of God has a context and an affect, as the the psalmist puts is,  “Worship the Lord in the splendour of holiness; Tremble [in submissive wonder] before Him, all the earth.” Psalm 96:9 (Amplified Bible) 

Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your infinite greatness and goodness. You are the Creator of heaven and earth, the source of all life. I worship You for Your unending mercy and love. May my life always reflect Your glory. Amen."