Worship Is Not Superficial
(It is not validated by the tempo of a song!)
“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.” John 4:23 (ESV)
Blessing Leaders (and potential Leaders). Today’s focus is the thought: Worship is Not Superficial. When defining the word worship, we will discover its definition is diverse; offering a suggestion of various synonyms. For our meditation today, we will select the section of the definition which states “implying and attributing extreme honor & reverence to”.
When we consider just that portion of the definition alone, it bears witness of this one fact: “If I am to ascribe the characteristics of attributing “extreme” honor & reverence to someone or something; I must have obtained a heightened prior knowledge or an awareness of that person or object. It is also necessary to realize that because of the in depth nature associated with this word worship, I cannot simply reduce its nature to the limits or the confines of my thoughts. My worship for God will only be established when I realize the level of intimacy that is required for me to connect with Him in that realm. When I haven’t properly established a “worship relationship” with the Lord, it is impossible for me to lead others to that place of true worship. We must always remain cognizant of the fact that it is my responsibility to maintain the plateau of intimacy with God so that I can properly lead others into true worship. I
am convinced that many leaders don’t have the type of intimate relationship with the Lord that will permit unhindered, totally focused worship. Therefore, as I so often say; we have permitted our congregants to believe that “worship” can be reduced to the two slow songs which are sung during our quote “Praise and Worship” portion of the service.
Leaders, let’s not become so preoccupied with “doing ministry” that we forsake the time to build that intimate relationship with the Lord that will permit “us” to worship him.
Worship involves that cherished relationship with the Lord that will overflow into my daily dealings. When I’ve learned to worship the Lord, I’ll have no problem aligning and curtailing my flesh and its desires to come in total agreement with God’s divine ordinances.
It is only when we have learned the art of true worship, that we will obtain the power to successfully defeat our adversary.... in our own lives as well. The true worship of God will avail us of the power and ability to transcend our ideologies, and conform them into those that are the expressed image of God.
As we begin this season of change and restoration, begin to spend more time in the presence of God. .. Not for the sake of studying the Word, not in prayer - but just in His presence….not asking for anything… not decreeing and declaring ….just in His presence in fellowship with Him!
It is only when we learn to intimately commune with Him, that true worship begins.
Remember: “When I spend time IN worship, then I will be empowered TO worship.”
“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.”
Psalm 29:2
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