FROM THE DAWGHOUSE…
God is Looking for Worshipers
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to forget the fundamental purpose for which we were created: to worship God. Worship is more than a ritual or routine; it is a heartfelt response to God’s greatness, love, and majesty. Jesus said in John 4:23-24, “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
As Bishop Quiñones taught us recently at Forge, to truly grasp what it means to be a worshiper, we must understand the essence of worship. Worship is derived from the Old English word “worthship,” which means to ascribe worth or value to someone or something. When we worship God, we are acknowledging His supreme worthiness, His unparalleled value, and His position as the ultimate authority in our lives. Worship is not confined to a church service or a set time of the week; it is a lifestyle. It encompasses our thoughts, actions, and attitudes, reflecting our reverence and adoration for our Creator.
Jesus’ words to the Samaritan woman at the well highlight two critical aspects of worship: spirit and truth. Worshiping in spirit means engaging our innermost being, our soul, and spirit, in communion with God. It goes beyond external expressions and rituals to a deep, personal connection with the Holy Spirit. This kind of worship is genuine, heartfelt, and transformative.
Worshiping in truth, on the other hand, means aligning our worship with the reality of who God is as revealed in Scripture. It involves a deep understanding of God’s nature, character, and promises. Our worship must be rooted in the truth of God’s Word, ensuring that we are not worshiping a distorted image of God but the true and living God as He has revealed Himself.
As Bishop shared with us, God is not looking for perfect performances or outward displays; He is looking for hearts that are wholly devoted to Him. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the Lord reminds Samuel that “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” A true worshiper has a heart that is humble, grateful, and surrendered to God. Such a heart seeks to honor God in every aspect of life, from the mundane tasks to the extraordinary moments.
When we become true worshipers, our lives are transformed. Worship shifts our focus from ourselves and our circumstances to God and His greatness. It brings us into alignment with His will and purposes, enabling us to experience His presence, power, and peace. Worship breaks the chains of fear, worry, and despair, replacing them with faith, hope, and joy. It is in the place of worship that we find strength, comfort, and renewal.
To this end, how might we cultivate worship?
Daily devotion (DAWG) – we pound this concept home every week at Forge…set aside time each day to read the Bible, pray, and worship. Allow these moments to refresh and refocus your heart on God.
Gratitude – cultivate a heart of thankfulness. Regularly recount God’s blessings and express your gratitude through words and actions.
Music and song – engage in singing worship songs that lift your spirit and draw you closer to God. Music has a powerful way of connecting our hearts to God’s presence.
Service – worship God through acts of service. By serving others, we reflect God’s love and compassion, demonstrating our devotion to Him.
Community – join a community of believers, like Forge, who share a passion for worship. Corporate worship, whether in a church setting or a small group, encourages and strengthens our faith.
Yes, God is seeking true worshipers – those who worship Him in spirit and in truth. As we cultivate a lifestyle of worship, we fulfill our highest calling and draw closer to the heart of our Creator. Let us strive to be the kind of worshipers the Father seeks, living lives that reflect His glory and proclaim His worthiness to the world.
To the Kingdom.
Joe Bouch
