Exploring Worship

I have been on a journey of sorts lately. The path began through crisis and has continued as a result of the comfort offered to me by our Savior and my increasing desire to know more of Him. Exactly who is Jesus and how does He want us to worship Him? Being raised in the church - by a pastor, no less - I am very clear on the procedures expected in church regarding worship. I am becoming more aware of how little "expected church worship" resembles what worship looks like in the Bible. Worship is a constant activity. It needs to be as much a part of our lives as breathing.

But, it isn't.

When was the last time we fell to our knees, overcome by the presence of God? When was the last time we danced for Him? Do we even shed tears for Him anymore? We don't worship Him like that because we don't really believe He is who He says He is. Read some of the Psalms David wrote; read first and second Samuel. Place yourself in David's situation; make his words personal. His resolute confidence in God is mind-blowing and I find myself ashamed and moved to tears at the same time.

We limit God's influence in our lives by keeping him boxed up at church, with a small, snack-sized helping of him stashed in our Bibles if the need arises. What would our churches look like if they were filled with people who truly worshiped?

John Randall Dennis has some important thoughts on this subject. Here's an excerpt:

"Similarly, our box labeled 'worship' hardly resembles the worship of the Old Testament and early church. The modern-day church has reduced the word to mean 'praise and worship music'. If you don’t believe me, ask the average Christian about how the 'worship' was at his church last Sunday and he will rattle on about the music. While music is a wondrous tool for worship, it is not itself worship per se. Our churches miss so much if music is the only thing in our 'worship box'. This must be not only admitted by us as church musicians, but must be taught by us until we really believe it."

You can read his whole article here:

link: Worship "Un-boxed"