Audience of One
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to forget the true essence of worship. We often get caught up in the external aspects of worship—will we hear a “good” sermon and “good” music, will we feel comfortable and want to come back? Will the people be friendly and welcome me? What will I wear to worship and how will others perceive me? But at its core, worship is about God and God alone. It's a personal, intimate act of devotion where we focus solely on God, our audience of One.
When we worship, we are invited to lay aside our distractions and enter into God’s presence with a heart full of gratitude and reverence. Worship is a time to acknowledge God’s greatness, Jesus’ love for all, and the faithfulness of the Holy Spirit. Worship is not about impressing others or meeting certain standards; it's about connecting with our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer in a genuine and heartfelt way.
In John 4:23-24, Jesus tells us that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. This means that our worship should be sincere and authentic, coming from the depths of our hearts. It's not about the songs we sing or the rituals we perform, but about the posture of our hearts before God.
So, let us approach worship with a renewed perspective, remembering that it's all about God. Let us offer our praise and adoration to God, our audience of One, and experience the joy and peace that comes from being in the presence of the Holy One with every breathe that we take.
Reflection Questions
1. When you worship, do you find yourself more focused on external factors or on connecting with God? How can you shift your focus to make your worship more about God?
2. In what ways can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and reverence in your daily life, not just during worship?
3. How can you ensure that your worship is sincere and authentic, coming from the depths of your heart, as described in John 4:23-24?
Listen
"The Heart of Worship" by Matt Redman beautifully captures the essence of worship being focused on God alone. The lyrics emphasize returning to the true meaning of worship, which is all about God and not about the external aspects or performances. I hope it resonates with you and enhances your relationship with God. Listen to the song by clicking the button below.
A Covenant Prayer in the Wesleyan Tradition (Contemporary Version)
I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, place me with whom you will. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be put to work for you or set aside for you, praised for you or criticized for you. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and fully surrender all things to your glory and service. And now, O wonderful and holy God, Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer, you are mine, and I am yours.
So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it also be made in heaven. Amen.