The Power of Praise: Letting Our Words Reflect Christ

At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe that real change begins with Jesus—and that change is made visible through the way we live, speak, and treat others. Our mission is clear: Be the Change as Jesus has changed us. One of the most profound ways this transformation becomes evident is through the words we speak and the praise we offer to God.

Offer Up a Sacrifice of Praise

Hebrews 13:15 (ESV) encourages us, “Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.” Worship is more than just singing on a Sunday morning; it’s the ongoing offering of our words, attitudes, and hearts to God throughout the week.

The Psalmist echoes this truth:
“Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psalm 141:2-3, ESV)

These verses remind us that our prayers and praises rise before God like sweet incense. But just as importantly, we are called to watch our words—to ask God to guard our mouths so that what we say builds up, honors, and acknowledges Him.

Words That Honor God

Our theme at Lakeview Christian Church is not just to avoid “bitter or salty” language, but to let every word be an act of praise. When we gossip, complain, or speak harshly, we miss the opportunity to glorify God and to demonstrate the change Christ has made in us.

James, the brother of Jesus, offers a sobering warning:
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” (James 1:26, ESV)

True faith is not just about outward appearances or religious activity. If our words do not align with the love, truth, and grace of Jesus, our faith loses its credibility and impact.

Be the Change: Our “Just 3” Approach

At Lakeview Christian Church, we pursue our mission to “Be the Change as Jesus has changed us” through what we call the Just 3:

• Study: We study God’s Word to know Him better and to let His truth shape us from the inside out. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
• Share: We share our lives and the gospel with others, building relationships that reflect God’s love. “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35, ESV)
• Serve: We put love into action, serving those in need both locally and globally. “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10, ESV)

Speaking Life—Every Day

Imagine a church where every conversation is seasoned with grace, every disagreement handled with patience, and every gathering filled with the sound of genuine praise. This is what we strive for at Lakeview Christian Church. We want to be a community where the fruit of our lips—the words we speak—bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus.

We invite you to join us as we seek to study God’s Word, share our faith and lives with others, and serve the world in love. Let’s ask God daily, “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psalm 141:3, ESV) so that our words will always honor Him.

Conclusion

The world is watching, and our words matter. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to living out our faith in ways that are tangible, loving, and true. Let’s continue to offer God a sacrifice of praise—not just on Sundays, but every day—with words and actions that point others to Jesus.

Be the Change. Let Jesus shape your speech, your heart, and your life.