Devotional

Strength in Praise

“Do You hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants you have perfected praise’?” -Matthew 21:16

In response to the criticism leveled against the powerful praise given Him, Jesus quotes Psalm 8:2 and reminds us of a great secret. Perfected praise will produce strength! It is powerful!

At the very moment when Jesus is being rejected by religious and political leaders, the praise offered by these young people is more powerful than the present circumstance. While the leaders are attempting to cast doubt on Jesus’ authority, the children are captivated by the sudden realization of who Jesus is. Capturing this revelation about Him brings forth loud and powerful praise. And it brings a sudden halt to the proceedings!

Perfected praise will not only operate powerfully in situations; it will produce strength in our own lives. The psalms repeatedly remind us that “The LORD is the strength of my life” (Ps. 27:1; 46:1; 73:26; 118:14). Is there an area where you need strength today? Lift your voice in praise and watch the Lord make you strong in Him!

Matthew