Is God the One Receiving Your Worship?
You’ve heard it before…everyone worships something or someone.
As Christians we know God should be the sole object of our worship, for the Bible makes it clear that He alone is worthy (Psalm 148:13). But I’ve found that unless I purposefully focus my heart on God alone, something else will attempt to take His rightful place.
You see, worship is more than singing to God during a church service. Merriam-Webster defines worship as “extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem.” The question then becomes: Who or what is the object of our esteem? Do we extravagantly admire God, devoting our time, energy and attention to Him above all else?
When we think about who God is and all He has done for us, nothing and no one else compares. He alone is worthy. He is the Creator of heaven and earth, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, God-Almighty!
I love how the Bible highlights the praise-worthy attributes and characteristics of God. The more I discover His beauty, the more I want to express my love and gratitude to Him. This is how we worship in Spirit and in Truth. That’s why the Bible is such a valuable part of our worship.
I’ve highlighted some tips on incorporating scripture into your worship in this “Word Time” video – part of my Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World DVD Study.
Word Time: Worship and the Word
How to Combine Worship and the Word
Do you ever wish you had more words to express your love to God? Here’s a secret I’ve discovered: God’s Word is filled with clues that tell us not only who God is but how we can worship Him better and more. Scripture can actually become a script of praise, providing the words we need to magnify the Lord in the way He deserves.
For as Psalm 22:3 reminds us, God inhabits the praises of His people. He is literally “enthroned on the praises of Israel” (esv).
Here are a few suggestions to begin:
~ Make a list of God’s attributes—to remind you that He is worthy.
~ Proclaim the Word as worship—to tell God who He is and what He means to you.
~ Use the motions that accompany scriptural worship—clapping, shouting, lifting hands, bowing down, etc.
~ Listen to and/or sing scripture-based songs—to give voice to the Word of God.
Whatever you do, work on expanding your spiritual repertoire of worship! Don’t be afraid to demonstrate your love and gratitude to God by using all that you are. Because God alone is worthy, my friend, and He longs for your love. Just as He longs for mine.
I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.
Psalm 9:1
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I’d love to hear from you…what Scriptures do you include in your worship?