There is a book by Jack Hayford entitled Worship His Majesty that offers some profound thoughts on worship. Many of you have either read this classic book or at least heard of Jack Hayford. For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, I would like to outline a few of those profound thoughts that have shaped my understanding of worship.
Thought one: The Purpose of Worship
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It is a release in our lives. While worship is for God and He is worthy of everything we offer him and more, God has given it to us as a way of releasing us from sin and burdens. Our worship of God is not because God needs His ego stroked. Worship is a gift to us for (and from) God.
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It is the key to relationship with God and rulership under God. God's original intent, In the beginning, was for people (Adam & Eve) to manage the earth. When they sinned, the relationship in which they received the power to fulfill their responsibilities was broken. We have a broken world because we have a broken relationship with God. Our broken relationship with God has produced a sinful life and world, i.e. broken government, environment, relationships, and finances. Worship restores our relationship to God and, therefore, our ability to function the way God intended. Through a lifestyle of worship, God helps us to manage our relationships, friendships and finances.
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It is in accordance with Gods Word. If you are a Christian, hopefully this is a no-brainer. If you arent, there are a plethora of verses in the Bible that deal with worship. Click here for a topical index of scripture on worship
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It welcomes the working of the Holy Spirit. As we humble our hearts before God and make ourselves open to Him, He is able to accomplish His purpose in our lives (see Matt 13).
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It gives place to Jesus at work in the life of His Church. Worship allows Jesus to direct and shape His Church.
Thought two: The Power of Worship
If worship is a release in our lives and is key to a relationship with God, then it should reasonably follow that within the context of Biblical worship there is much power. However, it's a paradox because while there is power in worship, it takes surrender and humility to worship Biblically. And, the power is never really ours, but God working in us. The second we think WE have the power we cease to function in a Biblical relationship with God.
Interesting thoughts arent they? If these thoughts are true, follow them to their logical conclusions. If we do not worship God, we cut off the flow of His Spirit into our lives, thereby breaking relationship with Him. No wonder Satan is constantly trying to convince us to do everything but worship God. I believe that if we would learn to worship God throughout the week (and not just on Sundays) not only would we be able to manage that which God has made us responsible for, but our times together (on Sundays) would have a head start.