Stand Up and Cheer

I hope you’ve enjoyed the NCAA Tournament as much as I have. We’ve seen crazy comebacks and wild buzzer-beaters. These college basketball players have given us excitement, entertainment, and reasons to be amazed. Throughout the entire month of March, they've given us something to discuss with our friends, family, and even total strangers. Who doesn’t want to talk about the madness of the tournament? As I begin to think about everything these players have given me, I realize I don’t have much to offer them in return. However, I can cheer for them and extend praise and respect for what they’ve done on the floor. When it comes to giving applause and praise in sports, we as fans are very open and willing to acknowledge greatness and appreciation for having the opportunity to witness it. Unfortunately, we seem more comfortable and active in our sports worship than in praising and showing awe to the God of the universe. It seems I’m much more likely to stand in amazement after an incredible buzzer-beater than I am to stand in humble adoration for the One who died and saved me. I hate to even admit that, but I hope we can be challenged to really think about worshiping and praising God with our lives, our obedience, and our words. The Bible says in Psalm 117:1-2 (NLT), “Praise the Lord, all you nations. Praise Him, all you people of the earth. For His unfailing love for us is powerful; the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. Praise the Lord!” God is worthy of our praise, so let’s not hold back our acknowledgment of His power, faithfulness, greatness, and matchless name. We can never repay Him for His grace and love, but we can worship and praise Him…and tell others about all He has done and continues to do. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for being so willing to praise a college basketball player and for not worshiping and praising You the way that I should. Please give me a heart of praise and open my eyes to see Your greatness. Help me to acknowledge Your faithfulness. I don’t deserve Your love, but thank you for loving me the way that You do. Help me to worship You with my life. You are worthy of my praise! In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.