Exploring the Deep Connection Between Wonder and Praise

The age we begin to lose our sense of wonder is not marked by a single moment, but rather by a slow, subtle shift. Research suggests that by the age of six, many children start to experience a fading of that wide-eyed curiosity that once came so naturally. As we grow older, wonder often doesn’t disappear entirely, but can certainly change. It can become more refined, grounded in practicality, and likely more reserved. The demands of adulthood, with its constant pull of responsibilities and expectations, tend to leave little room for the imaginative reflection where wonder once flourished.

For Jesus' followers, this wonder can be deeply connected to praise. While the world may define wonder as awe toward the fascinating, biblical praise is rooted in a deeper awe, one that recognizes the unchanging, eternal character of God and the evidence of His heart and hands. My working definition of praise is an intentional choice to rehearse the truth of God's character and elevate His eternal promises above the malaise of our own reality. It is not simply a reaction to good circumstances, but a deliberate shift of attitude that honors God in

every season (both the miraculous and the mundane).

When life becomes overwhelming, it's easy to let the pressures and disappointments overshadow our awe of God. In such moments, our prayers can become desperate cries for survival, rather than praise filled expressions of glory and adoration. Yet, it is precisely in these times that choosing praise becomes most powerful. It reawakens our sense of wonder - not just at what God can do, but at who He is. In a world that constantly dulls our capacity for awe, praise invites us back into the mystery and majesty of a God who is always worthy.

As you read over the list below, I would encourage you to meditate on each verse and cast yourself into the biblical narrative as we honor our Awesome God – the uncontested Lord of Heaven and earth for all eternity.

Jehovah Elohim : The Eternal Creator (Genesis 2:4)

Jehovah Adonai : The Lord Our Sovereign (Isaiah 40:10)

Jehovah Jireh : The Lord will see or provide (Genesis 22:14)

Jehovah Nissi : The Lord Our Banner (Exodus 17:15)

Jehovah Ropheka : The Lord Our Healer (Exodus 15:26)

Jehovah Shalom : The Lord Our Peace (Judges 6:24)

Jehovah Tsidkeenu : The Lord Our Righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6)

Jehovah Mekaddishkem: The Lord Our Sanctifier (Exodus 31:13)

Jehovah Saboath : The Lord Of Hosts (Psalm 24:10)

Jehovah Shammah : The Lord is Present (Ezekiel 48:35)

Jehovah Elyon : The Lord Most High (Psalm 7:17)

Jehovah Rohi : The Lord My Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)

Jehovah Hoseenu: The Lord Our Maker (Psalm 95:6)

Jehovah Eloheenu : The Lord Our God (2 Chronicles 14:11)

Jehovah Elohay : The Lord My God (Zechariah 14:5)