April 7, 2006

Richard Baxter (1615–1691) on Praise

A life of praise bringeth comfort to the soul...as labouring doth warm the body: or as the sight and converse of our dearest friend, or the hearing of glad tidings, doth warm the heart... This is the way to have comfort by feeling, to be much in the hearty praises of the Lord...if you would taste the heavenly joys on earth, you must imitate then in heaven as near as possibly you can; and this is your work of nearest imitation.

This life of praise is a continual pleasure to the soul; clean contrary to a melancholy life. It is recreating to the spirits, and healthful to the body...and is an excellent cordial and companion in the greatest sufferings.
Quoted in J. I. Packer's The Redemption & Restoration of Man in the Thought of Richard Baxter (Vancouver: Regent, 2003), 302.

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The above quote brought this verse to my memory:

NKJ Acts 16:25 But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.

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