First, we exist for God’s Pleasure.
Secondly, we exist to edify and equip God’s people.
Thirdly, we exist to declare God’s plan of salvation to the world.
As important as it is to “equip saints” (Ephesians 4:11-13) and to “evangelize the world” (Matthew 28:19-20) we must never forget our top priority is to bring God pleasure.
One of the most Scriptural and practical ways to bring God pleasure is to worship God. He deserves it; He desires it. Jesus said, “. . . the true worshippers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks” (John 4:23 NIV). In this verse is a beautiful and practical truth. When I feel far from God, instead of striving to seek Him, I just begin to worship Him in Spirit and truth and let Him seek me! Worship brings me into an awareness of God’s presence.
The Greek word for worship is “proskenuo“. It means, literally, “to turn and kiss“. It implies turning away from ourselves and turning toward our Lord in an intimate and affectionate way. It implies an emotional expression of love.
Some think that emotions are uncool, unmacho, or unspiritual. Some feel that emotion in worship is a waste. Not so! That wonderful woman, Mary, the sister of Lazarus, gave to Jesus an anointing with spikenard. It was costly; worth about one year’s wages. She was criticized for such an extravagant act and accused of wasting it unwisely. But, nothing given to Jesus is ever a waste or unwise. Jesus was very touched by her act of worship. Worship is often costly; worship is often criticized, but worship is always comely. As Mary wiped His feet with her hair, she then took on the same fragrance of Jesus. That is what happens in worship!
The Scriptures declare many ways we can worship the Lord. Let’s list a few.
Scriptural worship will include these forms. Initially our flesh might rebel, but eventually our spirit will be refreshed and renewed as we do according to His Word.
God bless you as you join with us in worshipping Him for He is worthy of our worship!