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How the Phrase is Used in Church and Christian Circles
During worship services: Many worship leaders use this phrase to encourage congregations to engage more fully in praise. For instance, in the middle of a service, a leader might say, “Let’s praise God with everything we’ve got! When praises go up, blessings come down!” This often serves to elevate the emotional atmosphere, encouraging everyone to praise more passionately. At gospel music events: In events like gospel concerts or praise nights, the phrase is sometimes used to energize the crowd. A host or singer might say it to suggest that if the audience praises with intensity, they will receive immediate blessings. This can sometimes create an expectation that blessings are guaranteed as a direct result of praise.Theological Reflection on the Phrase
Praising God is undoubtedly a core element of Christian faith. However, the Bible does not support a simple cause-and-effect relationship between praise and blessings as this phrase suggests. In Scripture, worship is not about getting something in return, but is a response to who God is and what He has done, regardless of whether blessings follow. For instance, Psalm 22:3 (NLT) says, “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” While this verse shows that God is present in the praises of His people, it does not imply that praise automatically leads to material blessings. God’s presence itself is a blessing. The idea that blessings “come down” simply because of praise oversimplifies the richness of biblical teaching.Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
Examples
Constance M. Cherry’s “The Worship Architect”: Cherry explains that worship is “primarily for the glory of God, not for human benefit” (Cherry, 2010). This reminds us that the purpose of worship is not to gain blessings, but to glorify God, regardless of personal outcome. Tim Keller’s article in Christianity Today: Keller writes, “If we come to worship to get something from God, rather than to honour Him, we misunderstand the purpose of praise” (Keller, 2016). He stresses that while God does bless, worship should be about honouring Him, not about seeking blessings.A More Biblical Perspective
A more accurate biblical approach emphasizes obedience and trust in God, rather than simply offering praise with the expectation of receiving blessings. Matthew 6:33 (NLT) says, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” This verse reminds believers that when they focus on pursuing God’s will and living righteously, blessings (especially spiritual ones) follow naturally. Similarly, James 1:17 (NLT) states, “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father.” This passage teaches that all blessings come from God, not because of our praise, but out of His grace and goodness.Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Conclusion
While the phrase “When praises go up, blessings come down” is popular and well-meaning, it is not biblical and can unintentionally create a transactional view of worship. A more faithful biblical approach encourages Christians to focus on their relationship with God, obedience, and trust in His provision. As seen in Scriptures like Matthew 6:33 and James 1:17, worship is not a tool for securing blessings but an expression of love and reverence for God, who blesses according to His will.Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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