Why should we praise the Lord? Because of His redemption (v. 1), the revelation of His righteousness (v. 2), and the remembrance of His mercy (v. 3). That should keep you busy singing His praises for a long time!
How should we praise the Lord? With a joyful shout and song (v. 4), and with musical instruments skillfully played to please Him (vv. 5–6). Let voices and instruments join in praising the Lord! Not religious entertainment but the joyful expression of praise to God.
Who should praise the Lord? Everybody in the world—and all the world of nature (vv. 7–9). The anticipation of His coming excites creation, and you should be a part of their excitement.
Joy to the world—the Lord has come!
A New Song
The psalmist often exhorts us to “sing a new song” (Pss. 33:3; 40:3; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1). The word translated “new” means “fresh, new in quality.” The song may be an old one, but our growth in the Lord and our new experiences of His grace enable us to sing an old song with fresh new meaning and blessing. This explains why the Lord allows us to go through trials. He is tuning us up to praise Him in a new way!
