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True worship

Lena Isaac

Psalm 98:4 encourages us to worship with exuberance: “Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.” Heartfelt praise in the assembly of God’s people set to music is wonderful. It is truly glorious when the Spirit descends and God is present among us. It lifts our burdens and refreshes our souls.

However, the Holy Spirit’s anointing is not given solely to make us feel good. It is given to empower us to do God’s will. Herein lies the test of true worship. Abundantly overflowing praise alone does not comprise true worship. If our exaltation of Christ is genuine, we will also obey His words. Jesus said, “Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) and “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). The unmistakable truth is that, according to Jesus, true worship requires obedience to His expectations. Jesus said, “Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me” (Matthew 25:45). Vocal praise without sacrificial love for others is not true worship.

Lena Isaac lives in Chilliwack, B.C.

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Last modified April 18, 2002.

© 2002 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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