But a dear friend gave me a book recently, which has adjusted my thinking and imbued my praise with a hopefulness that is not insincere and a commitment that is not lax. And here's why:
"GOD INHABITS THE PRAISES OF HIS PEOPLE. HE IS YOUR PRAISE AND HE IS YOUR GOD, THE ONE WHO HAS DONE MIGHTY MIRACLES YOU YOURSELVES HAVE SEEN."

DAVID SAID,
"YES I WILL STAND AND PRAISE YOU BEFORE ALL THE PEOPLE. I WILL PUBLICLY FULFILL MY VOWS IN THE PRESENCE OF ALL WHO REVERENCE YOUR NAME."

That's the thing. GOD rides on the crest of the wave of praise. His power is unleashed by it. His blessing is bestowed by it. It's so simple, but so deep. Isn't it amazing how He makes things simple? Not easy, God knows, but usually pretty simple. He wants ALL of us to get it; thus, simplicity.

He wants us to do what He says, so that our lives are richer, fuller, safer, more joyous, easier, more wondrous, more surprisingly blessed.

Because He wants us to do what He says, I do not wish to imply a "works" mentality where "do do do" and "achieve achieve achieve" is the end all and be all ..... although clearly our works are treasures. It's meant to imply that if we listen to GOD's commandments, His strong suggestions, His murmurings in our heart, we're GOING to have a finer life.

Are you acquainted with Merlin Carothers’ books on praise?
They're extraordinary. They are in themselves, keys to unlock blessings. They are titled:

Let me hear from you. Communication is breath-giving.

All best,

TONI LISA