What's Your Reason?
Two Concerns
This brings me to the next possible problem. The Bible tells us that if we are ashamed of Him, He will be ashamed of us on Judgment Day. That's enough for me! If we are honest with ourselves, some of us are embarrassed to do what we want to in worship. We have no problem with screaming for our kids' team at a soccer game. We will make fools of ourselves at sporting events, and yet when it comes to God, we don't really want people to know that we really love Him. My question is, how much do we?
What is the right thing to do? All I know is that when God speaks, we better listen. He wants us to be fools for Him. We all know the story of David and his dancing before the Lord. His wife said he was a fool for doing it, but God called him a man after His own heart. When we worship, who is our audience? Who are we trying to impress? Why do we do it? He is worthy of it, He demands it of His children, we were created to do it, it is our opportunity to be obedient, and He is pleased with it.
The next time you feel like falling on your face before God, do it. The next time you feel like raising your hands to the Lord, do it. The next time you feel like dancing before the Lord, do it. If you church rebukes you, I would find another church. What this world needs is Christians who genuinely love the Lord, who come before Him in sincere worship, and who aren't afraid to respond to Him in true worship. What we need is worship warriors - those who are willing to do the right thing in our corporate times together. For many the price will be high. For many there will be mocking, chastisement, and they may even be approached to leave the fellowship. If these things should happen, count it all joy. Pray for those who turn on you and mock your expression and obedience in worship. If you have the chance, share your heart and reasons for worship one on one. Show them the many verses that support your actions. For further reference go to http://www.experiencingworship.com/preview.htm to view our study materials that will help in your defense.
Lastly, remember that Satan hates our worship because He doesn't want God to receive what is due Him. He wants you to worship him, and when we fail to give God glory and honor, Satan is pleased. Whatever the reasons we use to not worship, we will only hinder our relationship with the Father. Are you willing to be obedient to Him?
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This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.