Psalms 69:30-36

I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving.

Moral states of mind worthy of cultivation

I. A noble resolution (Psalms 69:30). There are many ways of praising God: in our writings, conversations, actions.

II. A sound doctrine (Psalms 69:31). “To obey is better than sacrifice;” so is praise, which is the essence of obedience. Better--

1. Because it is good in itself. Sacrifice is not a virtue, praise is; it is essentially valuable, valuable in all worlds; sacrifice is not. Better--

2. Because it is more universal. Praise is everywhere. It is the music of the universe; sacrifice is not. There are no sacrifices amongst the angels; but praise throbs in every pulse of thought and emotion. Better--

3. Because it is more enduring. Praise will chime through the ages.

III. An encouraging assurance (Psalms 69:32). The man who lives a joyous life of gratitude towards God cannot fail to exert a morally beneficent influence over those with whom he is brought into connection. The accents and actions of a devout life fall on the heart of society as sunbeams and showers. No man can be good without doing good. No man can be happy in the highest sense without brightening the lives of others. The spiritually joyous man wakes his social circle into music.

IV. An exultant devotion (Psalms 69:34). He would have all join him in the great song of praise. True devotion destroys the isolation of the soul.

V. A patriotic hope (Psalms 69:35). (Homilist.)