What is the first thought that enters your mind upon rising from sleep? What are the first words from your lips in the morning?

Begin each day with praise.

Psalms 118:24 “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Begin daily prayer with praise.

Matthew 6:9 “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”

Begin church gatherings with praise.

Psalms 95:2 “Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.”

Psalms 100:2 “Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.”

Hebrews 13:15 “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.”

Praise is a sure way to enter into the presence of God and remain close to Him.

Psalms 113:3  “From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord’s name is to be praised.”

Today we are filled with praise for the resurrection of Jesus Christ nearly 2,000 years ago. With that victory over death and hell, a new day has dawned for humanity which still shines brightly today.

The first ones to see the risen Lord were women who came to honor him according to their custom. “And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.” (Matthew 28:9)

May we do the same on Easter Sunday and every day.