The great controversy is fought over whom to worship. Lucifer purposes to be greater than God, who alone is to be worshiped (Isa. 14:13, 14). To worship God properly, we must do so in appropriate ways, with reverence, humility, and obedience to His sacred statutes. Therefore, we need to cultivate certain practices:
Acknowledge who God is. True worship acknowledges God as our Creator, Redeemer, Father, Healer, Provider, and Refuge. We need to remember that “ ‘there is no one holy like the Lord’ ” (1 Sam. 2:2, NIV; Ps. 95:1–7).
Honor God. Whether individually or in a congregation, we must revere God. Because living according to the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:13–16, 22, 23) is a form of worship, we shouldn’t dishonor God by claiming to follow Him, but then living as though we do not have the Spirit. Read how Paul describes such a life in Galatians 5:19–21.
Be purposeful. Decide to worship God appropriately (Josh. 24:15; Daniel 3; Rom. 12:2).
Seek God. It is not enough to be determined to worship in appropriate ways. We must have a living connection with God. Daily prayer, Bible study, and meditating on God’s Word keep us in touch with Him. These activities should be an integral part of our lifestyle (Pss. 55:17; 77:11, 12; 119:11).
Be motivated. God’s love is the greatest motivator of all. Because He loves us, we want to follow Him (2 Cor. 5:14).
Be vigilant. The distracted athlete rarely wins the prize. How much time you spend in prayer, Bible study, and meditation will determine your level of distraction. Focus on Jesus’ examples of prayer and worship (Heb. 12:2). The avenues of the soul—sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell—can be used quite craftily by Satan, so we must diligently guard these avenues. When we do not, it becomes easy to blur the lines of distinction between that which is holy and that which is not.
Be penitent. Ask for forgiveness from a sincere heart. Should you err in worship, do not hesitate to seek the Lord’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9; James 4:6).
If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us (James 4:8). He will bless us if we worship Him appropriately (Isa. 58:13, 14).
Written by Abena Marfowaa Boateng, Vitebsk, Belarus
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