Jesus stated that those who worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth. Worship is an outward demonstration of an inner conviction and relationship with God. Thus, the heart of worship does not begin with religious adulation bestowed upon God. It begins with the lifestyle of those who serve Him. To understand worship, we want to look at three factors concerning it.
1. Worship is Sacrifice. The worship of God finds its roots in sacrifice. Abraham was willing to sacrifice someone that was dear to him in order to worship. He described the potential sacrifice of his son as worship. If we want to enter into true worship, we have to have this mindset. I will enter into His presence, even if it costs me.
And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you. (Genesis 22:5)
Before we can enter into God’s presence fully via worship, we have to willing to give up everything first. If we are to experience true worship, our love for God has to supersede our love of anyone and anything else.
2. Worship is Subsistence. Worship is to characterize the believer’s life and existence. The believer is worship. It is to be his condition or state of being. The believer recognizes that it is through the Lord that he exists and does all things.
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God. (I Corinthians 10:31-32)
His life should be a living demonstration of worship. While eating, sleeping, working, and relaxing, the Lord’s glory and honor should not be diminished.Our daily activities should bring glory and not offence to God. Our lives are to be subject to His righteousness.
3. Worship is Selfless. Worship is not designed for man, but it is reserved for God alone. There is a tendency (especially seen among Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians) to believe worship is for their benefit. Though worship blesses believers, its sole purpose is to exalt and magnify the personality and power of the true and living God. Isaiah prophetically reveals this truth,
I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (Isaiah 42:8)
The Christian is to worship in appreciation and honor of God. He is not to worship with the selfish motive of receiving a blessing. God blesses us daily. Therefore, believers should regard the opportunity to worship God as a privilege. This is because only His people are able to approach Him in worship.
Remember, worship is built upon three truths: it is sacrifice, it is subsistence, and it is selfless. Without these, the worship experience will be a religious exercise rather than communion with God. Well, there you have it. Until next time, trust in Him who cannot lie.
