Years ago, my restless soul longed for solace. I desired to understand our kingdom purpose as Christ followers. If our eternal position is to worship the Triune God 24/7, so must our posture be, in the here and now, on earth. The Holy Spirit began to press upon my heart that this posture of praise forms soul rest and allows the community of believers to be in one accord. I was led to begin specific formational practices that would impact my life forever. And so, I embarked upon a three-year, in-depth, journey of the hidden years, learning to create a posture of worship in the presence of God. I began to study the Scriptures, sink deep into a life of prayer, and experience intimate fellowship with Jesus. I learned the value of waiting on the Lord so the Holy Spirit could use my crisis for his will and good pleasure; and thus, my life was radically changed for the Kingdom of God.

Worship is so much more than attending a weekly service, or experiencing a feeling, it is seeking to live out the Great Commission by representing the reality of God’s nature in Christ. A posture of worship is vital for embodying God’s design for his people. This position is a life of cultivated appreciation to God by using every trial and temptation to transform one’s image and strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ. This posture creates openings and pauses in one’s daily routine for the Holy Spirit to develop spiritual growth.

In Acts, Luke describes a community of worshipers that were devoted to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This steadfast commitment defined the community’s posture of worship. They didn’t think about how this change took place, or even if it could, but they simply received God’s glory to grow his kingdom. This was their priority. The community used every faculty to embrace a life of service and sacrifice. They listened to the words of Jesus, they touched hearts, and became a sweet-smelling sacrifice to all people. They tasted the bread of life both as communion and a table meal, and they saw the power of prayer at work in everyday life. As a result, they had everything in common and lived in one accord. God drew together a massive diversity of people from everywhere for the common good of his glory. In Acts 2:42-45 (NRSV), the community modeled this posture of worship, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need.”

These precious people lived in awe and wonder, an effectual and habitual praise mode, a soul rest, because they were in harmony with all that God was doing. They gave generously to all those in need, and numbers increased daily! The Acts community is a beautiful example of how we are to live as Christ followers and become a community of worship.  It is an extension of Jesus’ ministry with his disciples. The church community has been summoned to live for the praise of God’s glory; and from this, our lives will reflect the beauty of Jesus Christ. Let us stand up and praise his glorious name!

Reflection:

• What does worship mean to you?
• How do you intentionally worship the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?

Dear Father,

     We praise your unending hymn because you are worthy to receive glory and honor for our lives. Help the Church to live for the praise of your glory in Christ.

Thank you, Holy Spirit, for drawing us in one accord to become a people of worship.

In Jesus name,

Amen!

Blessings,

Dr. Caroline