What first comes to your mind when you think of worshipping God? Is it music? Going to church? A sermon? A lifestyle?
Sadly, so many times, we assess our worship "experiences", and then rate them according to our feelings during that particular time. Please don't misunderstand me; God created us to have emotions! That is very much a part of who we are as human beings, created in His image. So while true worship does involve emotion, it must be invoked only as a response to the greatness of our God and the truth of His Word.
God is spirit, and those who worship Him
must worship in spirit and truth.
John 4:24
I really believe that's what true worship is: a response. Not a response to our mood. Not a response to a climactic sermon. Not a response to a key change. Real worship is a response to truth. Not a personal experience, but to the truth of who God is. It's about Him.
For so long "worship" has been branded this label that is far from what it really is. Worship isn't just going to church. It isn't just singing songs or making music. It isn't just hearing or delivering a good sermon. Of course, those are wonderful ways to express worship to God, but true worship is an attitude of the heart--an expression of adoration and reverence for the Creator of the heavens and the earth. When we are confronted with the reality of the greatness of our God, whether it be through a lyric, Scripture, a conversation or a life change, we worship Him, and then yes, it is a great experience! The truth of who God is causes us to live our lives differently--for Him--and that is also an act of worship.
Tonight at bedtime, Emily prayed a really sweet, heartfelt prayer, then immediately and enthusiastically proclaimed, "I love God more-ther!" It was as if she really couldn't find the words to say how much she loved God! I smiled, because even though she didn't realize it, that was an act of worship. I know that she meant it from her heart, and that is exactly the thing that God sees.
Hoping to hear your thoughts...
2 comments :
You blog is so peaceful. I enjoyed looking around. I did not see a place to "follow" your blog. Will keep checking in.
I agree with you Amy about worship being a response to God. So often we forget it is He in whom we live and breathe. All about God and not about us. It is so easy to get caught up in the things around us and just call on Him when we need Him. He is so great and so loving that He still loves us when we don"t put Him first, but He does let us know quickly when we get our perrogatives out of kilter. It is all about pleasing Him in our worship and adoring our great and awesome God. Was so good to see you all last night and lift our voices in praise with you. Our prayers are joining with you as you seek the pastor God has for you. Have a great day. MD
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