Some people praise God expressively. They clap, sing, shout, and even dance. The worship that includes praises and thanksgiving should be done decently, with decorum, modestly, and with a whole heart, and not a carnal heart. That means to praise Him with reverential fear. A psalm of the Sons of Korah teaches how to praise God. (Psalm 47)
Cheerfully: Praise is an expression of inward joy. It is always a joy to join other believers in singing unto the Lord. The call is to clap hands, giving glory to God. To draw attention, people clap their hands. It could be for a positive or a negative purpose. Here it is, an expression of inward joy. Clapping is done for praise. (Psalm 47:1; 98:8; Isaiah 55:12). It is also done in derision and dismay. (John 27:23; Lamentations 2:15; Nahum 3:19) The call is for all Nations. All cannot speak the same language, but all can use their hands.
Universally: Praising God is not a lonely or selfish act. It is important to invite others to join the worship of the living God. Praise always has a missional intention and purpose. Individual praising and worship are good, but not enough. Praising God with others is essential as united, eternal people of God.
Vocally: Praises should be vocal and verbal. Make a joyful noise to the Lord. (Psalm 98:4; 100:1) Praising includes shouting unto God with the voice of triumph. Singing new songs, expressing a new understanding of His Scripture, is essential.
Frequently: The phrase ‘sing praises’ is repeated several times. No praise is too much. Mostly, praises are incomplete and inadequate. It is not possible to compete with angels in praising God. Instead of murmuring, singing becomes a spiritual therapy and discipline.
Intelligently: Singing praises should be with understanding. Praising cannot be just musical or mechanical. Praises are based on knowledge and reason. Paul exhorts the believers in the city of Corinth to sing with understanding. (I Corinthians 14:15) Paul desires that the believers be thankful always. (I Thessalonians 5:18)
Do I praise the Lord along with the Sons of Korah?