God seems to reveal Himself to me in themes... this round I'm learning what true worship looks like.
One thing I have noticed is that my ability to be a reflection of God in my life is in direct relation to the condition of my heart. Let me try to explain the same concept another way... When I focus on my sin struggle, when I focus on my flesh desires or on what I want to change in my life, I always fail. My life may change for a short while. I may be able to stiffle the sin struggle for a short time but when my focus is on the struggle and not on the Word of God, I fall.
Someone once asked me "when is it hardest for you to glorify God?". I put a moment of thought into my answer and finally came up with "when I am angry and selfish and caught up in my flesh"
I started diligently reading scripture. Forgetting about what I should and shouldn't do (morally) I started singing songs when I caught myself being angry or wallowing in frustration. My heart changed. My attitude changed. Obedience inevitably followed.
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul" - Mark 12:30
My Dad also once told me that passion stems from obedience. It's true. The more I know about the character of God, the more I know God's desires for my heart and for my life, the more I allow the Spirit of God to move in my life and change me... the more I weep for the nations, and for friends who are struggling or people who just plain don't know God's love.
So back to my original point- God is showing me what it looks like to worship. Part of that means the way I react to people and situations. Now when I'm angry or frustrated I resist the urge to vent to a friend or to complain out loud (or in my head for that matter) and I start signing - out loud - I sing praise songs and the condition of my heart changes.
Lord you are more precious than silver
Great is Thy faithfulness
Amazing Grace- I once was blind but now I see
When I in awesome wonder, consider all the works Thy hands have made...How great thou art
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