What is the heart of worship? When we feel far from God, what are the ways to his presence? Psalm 100 can help us-
Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. [Psalm 100:1-2]
The call to worship is not some heavy legalistic demand but a shout of joy and gladness. If this is not how we feel, what might help us to get there?
Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. [Psalm 100:3]
Worship of God as God is appropriate because he is our creator and shepherd. Am I fighting against this reality? For whom is my life lived?
Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. [Psalm 100:4]
The password into his presence is thanksgiving and praise. Sometimes our life circumstances make these attitudes a challenge yet curiously, thanksgiving to God for the things we fear brings us to the place of true surrender and worship. It helps us align our hearts with his.
For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation. [Psalm 100:5]
This thanksgiving and praise come from a recognition that the Lord is good, loving and faithful. Sometimes a resentful or self-pitying heart will fight against this. Am I willing to surrender my frustrated desires and receive his desires for me as a more perfect good?
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