Praise

1 February 2026

By Pastor John Macindoe - Senior Pastor

This year’s church theme, which we’re introducing today in Cantonese and International, is: ‘With Praise for the Past and Faith for the Future’. Simple concepts for 2026.

Our Lord is worthy of our praise. King David wrote, ‘I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name forever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name forever and ever’ (Ps 145:1-2). Every Sunday we lift our voices and sing praise to the Almighty. Wouldn’t it be great if our praise was as heartfelt and exuberant throughout the week.

I long, like David, to have a heart that overflows with praise to God all day, every day. God is magnificent every day of the week. His mercies are new every morning. So, how can we be growing ever more to be people of praise? Here are three suggestions;

First, develop a growing awareness of God’s sovereignty and constant goodness. Peter says, ‘Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you’ (1 Peter 5:7). God made us. He loves us. He yearns that we might trust Him in every circumstance. Whether we are brushing our teeth or experiencing major life change, we can always praise God and find rest under the shadow of His wings.

Secondly, change your vocabulary. Instead of saying ‘Thank God!’ or ‘Thank Goodness!’ when things go well, why not say ‘Praise God’ instead. But don’t only do this to express relief when things go well. When you are frustrated by hold ups, when face to face with disappointment, turn your mind to the Lord, who never loses control, and praise Him.

Thirdly, meditate often on the cross. God has acted to save a sinner like you. Praise God!