Natural Response



Psa 97:1  GOD rules: there's something to shout over! On the double, mainlands and 

islands--celebrate! 


	There is an action that fits the description of "praise". This is when the whole being is 

responding in some way to the reality of God's presence and greatness. Although varying in it's 

definition, this response is greatly desired in most gatherings of worship. "If only the people 

would participate with open mouths and uplifted hands." This is the pursuit and this is the 

purpose in any church that is wanting to be something more than a political or social club. How 

to achieve this becomes the topic of the "creative" meetings. There is an ongoing search for the 

right song or combination of songs. There is great planning given to the entertaining elements of 

each portion of the "show" in order to keep interest and participation at an optimum level. If 

something ever works it can be assured of a place in tradition and be held for an extended period 

of time. 
	
	While each one of these methods and procedures can be divinely inspired, there is great 

danger of diverting from the ultimate purpose when any one of them begins to gain more focus or 

attention than the One who rules. Success in apparent participation and response does not 

necessarily equal true praise or true worship. The reality of praise in the heart of anyone will 

only be true as it is a response to a beholding of the God who rules all creation. Verses 2-7 of 

this 97th Psalm describe the way nature itself responds to the presence of God. There is always 

an action and there is always a response when God is seen and each element of nature has its form 

of response. I like the 5th verse:


Psa 97:5  The mountains take one look at GOD And melt, melt like wax before earth's Lord. 

	
	All it takes is one look upon the God who knows no equal for there to be an appropriate 

response, in whatever form that might inspire. This is a very natural sequence of events-behold 

God/dramatic response. This is a sure thing that will never fail- if any portion of creation 

(especially us) ever sees or is touched by God there will be the desired response of worship and 

praise. As the song, drama, sermon or any other well-crafted element brings direction and focus 

upon Him, there will most definitely be an eruption of praise from a heart that cannot help but 

be impressed by His greatness. Having arrived in His presence, the method used to assist in 

arriving there loses focus as all that is seen is His face. The response is to Him and not the 

method. There will be a shout, there will be a song, there will be a dance and there will be a 

quiet moment as His awesome presence provokes a response that cannot be withheld. 


Psa 97:11  Light-seeds are planted in the souls of God's people, Joy-seeds are planted in good 

heart-soil. 

Psa 97:12  So, God's people, shout praise to GOD, Give thanks to our Holy God! 


1/29/04