One of the top answers was “Church.”
That’s the way it should be. Right?
But some of the time, it doesn’t happen that way. Why?
Sometimes we don’t unclutter our minds so we can be receptive to what God has for us. We’re still thinking about what needs to be done at home, or worries about life won’t let go.
It’s good to bring our troubles to the Lord, but not drag our baggage along with us when we enter the presence of God. Sometimes what happened at home or on the way to the church still lingers and we just can’t seem to close the door on it.
A person’s worship does not depend on another’s action. No matter how good a worship leader is, no matter how inspiring the singing is or how fervent the prayer is, the fact is, unless a person first acknowledges God’s presence, he will not enter into true worship.
Expectations of a worship service may vary with people’s attitudes and this can hinder our communion with the Lord. So if we leave the service without that communion, whose fault is it? Did it not fit our ideal?
“The song leader sang too slowly, too loud, too soft ...”
“The offering (also worship) was not received at the right time.”
“Sister so-and-so’s hat was too big.”
“Nobody greeted me.”
“The preacher told a joke” and so on ...
It’s ironic that one person can join in worship and be blessed and in the same place, another says, “This morning’s service was not inspiring.”
To acknowledge God’s presence in His House is an individual thing. Our hearts must come into submission to the Holy Spirit if we are to worship Him in spirit and truth, as Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well.
Of course, the singing, praying, giving and preaching bring us together in spirit, but if you have to be coerced or forced, it won’t happen.
That holds true, also, for worship in the home. Everyone needs that private time with God. And you know the distractions — phone, TV, complaints, busy hours, last-minute plans corralling our time ...
The Psalmist wrestled with his own thoughts in Psalm 73 as he sought to worship God. He was full of questions and complaints about others, when he needed to concentrate on his own relationship with God.
Finally, he entered into “the sanctuary” and understood what the Lord was saying to him. It wasn’t until he acknowledged God’s presence and submitted to His wisdom that he was able to have communion with Him.
Serve the Lord with gladness and come before His presence with thanksgiving and you will never be disappointed with how God chooses to bless.
