On Being a Worthy Worshiper

This opening illustration is actually from my own experience. Not that long ago I was standing in the congregation of a Nazarene church, although I believe this could have happened in any church – at least I hope so!

The congregation was singing – including myself. I was participating at a rather loud level because I was getting stirred with all of our voices joined together in praise for the Lord. And then I noticed another person singing rather robustly. His voice was strong and confident with a nice texture. However, as I listened, the notes he sang were not necessarily close to the melody of the song or any harmony part. At first, I thought, “Why is he singing so loud and off pitch?” But then, as if the Lord were speaking to me, I thought, “What a beautiful sound!” This man was obviously expressing himself from his heart – unashamedly in honor and praise to God! You might be asking, ”Maybe he doesn’t realize what he sounds like?”  My response. “Doesn’t matter.” Worship is first and foremost a heart issue. I knew this man to be a rather quiet, godly individual – except when he worshipped!

Psalm 96 says, “Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord all the earth. Sing to the Lord praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among the peoples. For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise.”

I was embarrassed and asked the Lord for forgiveness when I thought back on times when I had allowed a petty attitude or not feeling well to physically inhibit the expression of my heart’s worship of a God – who is ALWAYS worthy! I don’t know what our voices will sound like in heaven but undoubtedly the attention will be focused and centered on Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. May that be the case for us each Sunday as we gather together to glorify him!

Blessings,

Pastor Ron