Going Deeper in Worship
Worship is a powerful tool within the realm of spiritual health and development. As we discussed previously in this course, everyone is a worshiper. Believers and nonbelievers alike all worship something. For believers, “The praises of the living God dismantle and disengage the threats and traps of the enemy of our souls. In order for us to advance the kingdom of our God, we must sustain a spirit of worship to Him.”1 Worship is a critical aspect of our relationship with God. David Edwards explains, “God not only wants to mold our hearts as individuals, but God wants His people—the church—to have the heart of worshipers.”2 If we are genuinely growing in our relationship with God, our heart for worship will reflect it.
As we grow in our worship, our lives begin to change. Edwards states, “God’s presence is manifested in praise and worship. And His presence will always equal victory.”3 But what about the moments when we don't feel like worshiping? Quite honestly, this is an area I have found myself at multiple times. Between work, school, artistry, and (or lack of) social life, it is easy to become utterly and completely tired and emptied. These are the moments in life Satan lures in to get us to focus on anything but God. However, these are moments we need to press deeper into God.
If there is one thing I have learned in ministry, it is that we must train ourselves to go to God and patiently wait for Him. No matter how far from God you feel, you must go to God. In Psalm 40, we see how David's heart was not worshipful. But instead of turning away from God, David patiently waited for God. David's act of waiting was a form of worship, to which God responded and lifted him up.
Patiently waiting for God has been an aspect of worship I have been growing in. This form of worship has completely changed my approach to going to God and leading His people. Patiently waiting on God reflects humility and submissiveness to God. I now live and lead from the mindset of expecting God to do great things, not hoping for it. I want to encourage you to do the same!
God Bless,
David Conley
1. Edwards, David M. Worship 365: the Power of a Worshiping Life. B & H Books, 2006. 140
2. Ibid. 145.
3. Ibid.