I haven’t sung this old hymn in several years. Goodness, what a message it holds–loaded with doctrine. The first thing that came to my mind was when Jesus said if the people didn’t praise Him then the rocks would cry out. Earth rings His praises; Heaven rings His praises. When we’re lost and wandering about not knowing what to do, we need to sing His praises for He is our guide who guards and protects not only our lives, but our souls as well.
“Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Sing, O Earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him! Hail Him! highest archangels in glory;
Strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long:”
–Fanny J. Crosby
We were once darken and outcast because of sin, but then Jesus came on the scene and brought light and salvation. He was crucified and bore cast away the sins and bore our sorrows. He became the “Man of Sorrow” for us. Those thoughts alone should make us want to praise Him. Others may mock us, laugh at us, scorn us; even people we thought cared for us, but Jesus–His love is so strong it cannot fade away.
“Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
For our sins He suffered, and bled, and died;
He our Rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him! Hail Him! Jesus the Crucified.
Sound His Praises! Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep and strong:”
Sometimes we forget that He is the King! He is the Lord! He reigns over all creation with His sovereign word and power. Think of His majesty. Think of all He has done from creation of the world to the creation of a new heart in men who accept Him. Think of what is getting ready to take place–He is coming back for His people. The cross made Him victorious over sin and soon He will do away with evil and rule in victory.
“Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, our blessed Redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever;
Crown Him! Crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming! over the world victorious,
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong:
Praise Him! Praise Him!
tell of His excellent greatness;
Praise Him! Praise Him!
ever in joyful song.”
Notice the exclamation marks that Fanny Crosby put in this hymn. When we think of Christ is should be with an exclamation! Think of all that He has done! Praise Him!