Hallelujah!

Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.

Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him —Revelation 19:6-7

Did you know “hallelujah” is the only word that’s the same in every language across the world? Perhaps God planned it this way so anyone who wanted to praise Him, no matter their national origin, could do so with all brothers and sisters in Christ at any time. We know we are meant to praise God, and He is worthy of our praise and worship. However, how often do we truly consider how much our praise means to Him? He doesn’t need it; God is God all by Himself and is fully aware of His power and accomplishments. Yet He chooses to request and require our praise, not because He has a big ego but because He loves us. God sees how much joy it gives us to praise Him and how it can lift us up in trying circumstances. You may not feel comfortable shouting “hallelujah,” and that’s okay. Your hallelujahs can be as quiet as whispers. They don’t even require words. God gave each Christian unique gifts and talents that they can turn into worship. If you are a dancer, dance in praise. If you are a writer, write your own psalm or create a story or poem with God at the center. Labor such as washing dishes or doing janitorial work is a form of praise if done with a glad heart. What about the times you don’t feel like praising? Be honest; tell God your heart doesn’t have a “hallelujah” in it right now. Then, ask Him for the strength to focus on praiseworthy things, such as the death and resurrection of Christ or the beautiful creation around you. No matter what form it takes or what language you are speaking, God knows how to interpret your praise. It is always “hallelujah” to Him.