1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:1 – 2)
For many years, worship for me was synonymous with the singing segment of a church service. And, some of the church language I used helped to reinforce that view. Terms such as “time for worship” (is there a time that is not for worship?), and “worship songs” (are some of the songs not worship songs?). I know I am being a bit picky because the terms are probably fine in context. However, you can see how we can develop a narrow view of worship if the broader Biblical view (lifestyle of submission to God) is not understood. I am emphasizing this point because if worship is no more than an activity or experience, we will not materially impact a world in need.
Please prayerfully read the passage above and consider the questions below.
Question
In what ways do we practically offer our bodies as living sacrifices to perform true and proper worship?
March 17, 2020 at 11:19 am
I have to admit that when I think of worship, the first thing that comes to mind is singing and praising God in church, or singing along and feeling God’s presence as I listen to CDs in my car. Thank you for the reminder that our lives as Christians could be an act of worship.
The way we talk, the way we dress, the way we treat others, the way we love our spouse, the way we love our children, the way we think, the places we go, the books we read, the movies we watch, and so many more opportunities in our daily lives should be carried out in such as way that depicts acts of worship to God.
If we really consider that our actions should all be acts of worship to God, there is no doubt that the world wouldn’t be able to help but see that we are “set apart” as Christians. We would be an obvious bright light in the world, and a blessing to our family, our co-workers and friends, and the people of the world that we come in contact with on a daily basis.
We would make such a difference in our household and in the lives of others if we discipline ourselves to think about what we do as acts of worship to God, before we do them. Our lives would be transformed slowly but surely.
I am going to work on this concept for myself. I want my life to be an act of worship. I want to make a positive impact on the people I come in contact with.
March 17, 2020 at 2:29 pm
So encouraging to read this Joseth.
March 17, 2020 at 12:42 pm
The language in the introduction of our charge today motivated a reconsideration of 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory.” (Isn’t this worship in action). I also am motivated to find another name for the “Praise & Worship” segment of our church’s worship service. This I believe will contribute towards educating us that “worship” is not just something we as believers do for a moment, but it’s God expectation that it will be a way of life.
March 17, 2020 at 2:31 pm
Good luck! Tough one,
March 17, 2020 at 2:43 pm
I believe as Tony says Worhip is a way of Life.
Every moment that you can give Praise and gratitude for everything good.
Walking in nature and admiring his Works.
When we eat etc.
No specific time but all the time even with ” the other people” who think otherwise.😊
March 17, 2020 at 11:02 pm
I do believe there is a bit in the Bible that says to sing and dance to the Lord. I just know that one of you will find the correct quote.
That’s not the only part. It’s how we behave in his light among others: in the flesh, I dread seeing the crude and corbantic behaviour at Carnival.
Sharing with love comes to mind. Even the teeniest morsel. So refreshing to read others thoughts bringing us closer.
March 18, 2020 at 12:06 am
For me an important body part to leverage for worship is the use of my tongue. The way I talk with others sends the world a message. Am I quick to crush with my words or intentional in my communication to build others up. I am on the phone or in meetings most of the day and my impatience and frustration can me evident in my tone and posture.
Lord, let my words encourage and bring life to those I come in contact with – those in my world.