Worship
I am encouraged by a passage I just read about in Matthew 15.When the woman of Cana first approached Jesus – she had a prayer, a wish and desire that her daughter be delivered. Each time I hear this I preached, there always comes this exposition that Jesus was rude. Why? Because he did not respond – now that doesn’t translate dismissal or nonchalance towards the lady.If you follow the story, you will discover that Jesus was building capability within this woman. For every time the Master said No, she had a yes – her faith was being developed. A lesson for someone out there who may be experiencing roadblocks and disappointments – Don’t give up! Your miracle is underway- in the making and about to manifest.
Who would have thought this woman would receive her breakthrough even against the will of Jesus’ aides –the folks with VIP access, rainmakers. Have you been told to go away? Have received an ‘Unfortunately’ correspondence? Stay put and file away the letter because life’s about to get better.
Fast forwarding to the main part. The woman returned with a new strategy: offered worship then made a petition. While she worshipped, she said ‘Lord help me’! I love the idea of storming heaven and going up the mountain with nothing but a sword and staff. You may have fulfilled all righteousness but that may never get you the answer you need.
Worship paves the way. Worship is the password, the codebreaker and the access to your next level.
What is worship?
Worship is much more than an act, it is a lifestyle reflective of the worth or quality of the object. In Christendom, the object of our worship and devotion is God. It is possible to offer worthless worship – this is when one talks the talk but falters at the walk. Jesus said:
These people say they honour me, but their hearts are far away. Their worship is worthless, for they teach their man-made laws instead of those from God. Matthew 15:8-9
Here’s two of many things you can expect to happen when you worship:
- Hear God’s voice: The voice of the Lord is manifest when he is hallowed and reverenced. Do you want to hear God and watch him move in a spectacular way? Worship! AscribeAscribe to the LORD, O sons of the mighty, Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2Ascribe to the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in holy array. 3The voice of the LORD is upon the waters; The God of glory thunders, The LORD is over many waters. Psalm 29: 1-3
- Led by God: There is a path … gateway or portal that will guide you to God’s best for you. The secret to the path is in God. When you come close, you are shown this pathway. You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:11
Be relentless, get your heart right and love on God:
- Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. Psalm 40:5
- My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness And of Your salvation all day long; For I do not know the sum of them.Psalm 71:15
- I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. Psalm 77:11
- How great are Your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep. Psalm 92:5
- How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 36:7
- Who does great and unsearchable things, Wonders without number Job 5:9
Read more about worship here.
Related journals:
Worship – Part 1
Worship-Part 2