WORSHIPING GOD
Psalm 34:1–3, 8–10, 15–18
There is a question I want each of us to ponder as we read this commentary. When do we know that we have worshiped God? While contemplating that question, consider all the outside factors that may determine your answer. What if the temperature of the room is too hot or cold? What if the seats are uncomfortable? What if the worship leader messes up the words to the song or the PowerPoint freezes up? What if you are not familiar with any of the songs selected that day?
All these honest questions are designed to help us look at our own hearts. When we equate worship with music style, the comfort of the room or the reinforcement of our personal preferences, we are in trouble.
What if I told you that while music can aid in worship, it is not the main component? Of course in our churches, music selection is important and it should be.
Many of the Psalms written by David were songs to be sung as praises to the Father. But even more important than the songs I sing to God is the heart with which I do it. When you or I worship God, we are acknowledging God’s presence and provision in our lives.
We meet together to praise God. (1–3)
In the bizarre days of COVID-19, churches and staff members were left to pray about the best ways to navigate unfamiliar waters. It seemed no matter the decisions made, some would agree and others would vehemently oppose. It seemed at times that there was no right answer for many of the obstacles our churches faced.
Looking back, I do believe that we can agree that worshiping together is important to the health and well-being of the Church. Can you worship by yourself? Yes. Should you? Absolutely. However, it is not a substitute for corporate times of worship.
In Verse 3, David invites us to and underscores the importance of magnifying the name of the Lord together.
We meet together to thank God for the good things He has provided. (8–10)
I cannot think of one blessing in my life that God has not provided. His benevolent hand has given to me more than I could ever count. The result should not be that I harbor my gratitude for myself. Instead, I should willingly and ecstatically praise Him. When I do I worship the Giver, not the gift. My circumstances should not dictate my praise. When we gather and see others worshiping, it encourages us to do the same.
We meet together to pray and seek God’s help. (15–18)
Because we trust God, we can always talk to Him. Our times of worship should be filled with the prayers of His people.
Prayer is our most honest and intimate act of worship in which we can engage. Our broken hearts can be poured out to God through prayer. In prayer we seek not to change God’s heart but to share ours.
These verses reveal to us that prayer is our greatest contribution. A contrite spirit will care little about the song selection or other noneternal factors.
Are you willing to worship God in this way? Set aside your opinions and seek Him. There is not a single person you will share a worship space with this Sunday who is perfect, but we all can give praises to the One who is!
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
