Psalm 65: The Impulse To Praise

Many people speculate on the differences between human beings and animals.  Some argue that humans are unique because we use tools, or laugh, or strategize, or are aware of our own mortality, or have a soul.  Those are all good guesses - but I would add that something else that separates people from animals is an impulse we find within ourselves to look for something greater than ourselves.  This spiritual quest that so many of us undergo is a part of what it means to be human.  We have an impulse to praise.

This impulse shows up frequently in the psalms, and Psalm 65 is a good example of it.  David the psalmist begins with an acknowledgement that God is worthy to be praised (vs. 1).

What makes God praiseworthy?  The psalmist suggests:

• God answers prayer (vs. 2).
• God forgives (vs. 3).
• God delivers (vs. 5).
• God is powerful over mountains and seas (vs. 6 and 7).
• God controls the day (vs. 8).
• God provides grain (vs. 9).
• God sends rain (vs. 10).
• God superintends creation (vs. 11-13).

Do you find within yourself an impulse to praise and worship?  There are many reason to praise God. What are some of your favorites?