Consider again the quote in yesterday’s focus: “Most people tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship.” [source: bulletin clipping] We truly do live in a mixed-up world. Today let us consider our worship!
To play at something is to not take it seriously, but to rather view it as either merely recreational, something we can take or leave, or approach half-heartedly. How sad that some make a game out of that which should be given serious consideration. This is no more true than when it comes to our worship. When we do not approach the worship of God in a sincere manner, it is a reflection we do not view God in such a way. Though unlike the world we may refrain from using the name of God in a flippant or irreverent manner, we could still be guilty of going through the motions and sounds of worship without it being pleasing to God. Such was the charge against Israel at the time of the prophet Amos. (Amos 5:21-24) We would do well to remember how God dealt swiftly with Nadab and Abihu when they substituted what He had not commanded. (Leviticus 10:1-2) Also consider the charge Jesus levied against the Jewish leaders who seemed to play games with regard to what really constituted a binding oath. (Matthew 23:16-22)
With regard to worship, Jesus told the woman at the well. . .
“(24) God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:24 ESV)
To worship God “in spirit” implies it must be more than mechanical, thoughtless activity. Besides the outward being, the inward being is to be involved.
To worship God “in truth” implies there is a right way and a wrong way to worship. The ways in which God has told us to worship must be followed and if we begin to make substitutions we risk joining the category of Nadab and Abihu. Jesus quoted Isaiah in pointing to vain worship associated with the “teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” (Mark 7:6-7) Let us search the Scriptures to make certain our worship is based on the authority of God rather than merely the traditions of men.
Remembering again Paul’s appeal to Christians at Rome, he urged. . .
“(1)I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1 ESV)
If we truly love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27) it will be reflected in the way we approach God, as well as by our conduct in daily living. May our life clearly reveal our worship to God is not a game, but rather be marked by an earnestness to worship as He has commanded and to conduct our daily life in a manner that declares Him to truly be the Sovereign over our whole being.
Have a great day SINCERELY SEEKING TO PLEASE GOD WITH THE WHOLE LIFE!
Carl
