By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
Hebrews 13:15
Offering thanks is a practice that we should develop. It demonstrates a humble attitude, it shows recognition to others, it creates an accepting environment for others to express their own feelings, and it reflects that we are not islands to ourselves but rely on one another for the true blessings of life. When we have much to be thankful for it is easy to express thanks. But what about those times when the car is needing major repairs, the washing machine is not working, we have medical emergencies, and there is not enough money to go around? The writer of the book of Hebrews tells us to “bring the sacrifice of praise.” This is praise offered when it hurts, when we can’t see the way out, when the future seems desperately dark. This is still the time to offer praise—the sacrifice of praise. It is an affirmation of our faith in the faithfulness of God. It is saying with Job, “though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” It is saying, “even when I cannot see, I will still trust.” We bring the sacrifice of praise when it takes effort and determination to say it. We say it, not based on our own understanding, but on the promise of who He is. He remains faithful, and my faith will rest in His faithfulness.
Dalbert Walker