The Awe of God Week 2

Daily Devotions 
Week of September 29, 2025 based on The Awe of God Part 2

Day 1: The Awe of God Reading: Psalm 145:1-21
Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's focus on cultivating a sense of awe for God. In Psalm 145, David pours out his heart in praise, recognizing God's greatness, goodness, and glory. Take time today to meditate on God's attributes. How does His majesty, power, and love overwhelm you? Consider the ways God has revealed Himself in your life, in nature, and in His Word. Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your sense of wonder and reverence for God. Practice praising God throughout your day, acknowledging His presence in both the extraordinary and the mundane moments of life.

Day 2: Praise in All Circumstances Reading: Acts 16:16-34
Devotional: Paul and Silas's response to imprisonment challenges us to praise God even in difficult circumstances. Despite their chains, they chose to pray and sing hymns at midnight. Their praise not only changed their own perspective but also impacted those around them. Reflect on your current challenges. How might praising God in the midst of your struggles shift your focus and open doors for God to work? Today, make a conscious effort to praise God, especially in situations where you might typically complain or feel discouraged. Remember, praise is not just a feeling, but a choice to honor God regardless of our circumstances.

Day 3: Humility in Praise Reading: Luke 18:9-14
Devotional: Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector reminds us of the importance of humility in our approach to God. The tax collector's simple, heartfelt plea, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner," was honored above the Pharisee's self-righteous prayer. As you praise God today, examine your heart. Are there areas of pride that need to be surrendered? How can you cultivate a spirit of humility in your worship and daily life? Ask God to reveal any self-righteousness or comparison with others that may be hindering your relationship with Him. Practice gratitude for God's grace and mercy in your life.

Day 4: God's Presence in Our Praise Reading: Psalm 22:3, Zephaniah 3:17
Devotional: The Scriptures tell us that God inhabits the praises of His people. What a profound thought – that our praise creates a dwelling place for God's presence! As you go through your day, consciously invite God's presence through your praise. Whether in moments of joy or struggle, let your praise be a constant reminder of God's nearness. Reflect on times when you've felt God's presence most strongly. How did praise play a role in those experiences? Today, seek to create an atmosphere of praise in your home, workplace, or wherever you find yourself, knowing that God delights in your worship and rejoices over you with singing.

Day 5: Praise as a Lifestyle Reading: Philippians 4:4-9
Devotional: As we conclude this devotional series, Paul's exhortation to rejoice always serves as a powerful reminder that praise should be our lifestyle, not just an occasional practice. Notice how Paul connects rejoicing with prayer, thanksgiving, and focusing our thoughts on what is true and noble. How can you integrate praise more fully into your daily routines? Consider starting and ending each day with a moment of praise. When faced with anxiety or negative thoughts, practice replacing them with praise and thanksgiving. Remember, a lifestyle of praise doesn't mean ignoring life's challenges, but rather choosing to trust and honor God in all circumstances. As you move forward, let praise be your default response, shaping your perspective and drawing you closer to the heart of God.


Small Group Guide: The Awe of God - Practicing Praise

Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, asking God to open hearts and minds to the message and guide the discussion.

Key Takeaways:

1. Praise is the path to awe, magnifying God until we see Him clearly.
2. Pride is the biggest roadblock to experiencing the awe of God.
3. God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).
4. Praise can shift atmospheres and attitudes, even when circumstances don't change.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to you to "treat God casually"? How might we unintentionally do this in our daily lives?
2. The pastor mentioned three aspects of awe: wonder, fear, and reverence. Which of these do you find easiest to experience? Which is most challenging?
3. How does pride interfere with our ability to praise God authentically?
4. Reflect on the story of Leah (Genesis 29:31-35). How did her attitude shift from seeking validation to praising God?
5. The sermon mentioned that "praise is the sound of victory before the battle is won." Can you share an experience where praising God helped you through a difficult situation?
6. How might our praise impact those around us, similar to how Paul and Silas' praises affected the other prisoners?
7. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a lifestyle of praise, even in challenging circumstances?

Practical Application:

1. Praise Challenge: For the next week, commit to praising God daily for at least three specific things. Keep a journal of how this practice affects your perspective and relationship with God.
2. Praise Playlist: Create a group playlist of worship songs that focus on praising God. Encourage members to listen to it throughout the week.
3. Praise Partner: Pair up with another group member to share praises and prayer requests throughout the week, encouraging each other in cultivating an attitude of praise.
4. Praise Walk: Take a short walk in nature, intentionally praising God for His creation and goodness. Share your experiences at the next meeting.
5. Praise Testimony: At your next gathering, have each person share a brief testimony of how practicing praise impacted their week.

Closing Prayer: End the session by having group members offer short praises to God, celebrating His character and deeds.