Thursday, December 25, 2014

Misunderstood, but Hopeful

On the opposite side of jubilant worshipful singing, are those who find worship music unpleasant, cumbersome, and something to be endured before the sermon is preached. Churches worldwide tend to make this their music style of choice in adoration to God.
Christians who feel negatively about (praise and) worship music (as it’s also called) are often misunderstood as not being saved, or having little desire to perform Christian service, which is untrue. Chances are that people who dislike country music (for example) will not be questioned (or condemned) as much for their choice compared to someone who dislikes worship music.  (That’s a shame.)
Some people may find discussing the above topic rather taboo. Just Remember, Jesus often discussed things some people might have considered sacrilegious (or unwelcome).  But it was always necessary in coming to the right conclusion.
It is best to be reminded that hymns and praise and worship music (as it is sometimes called) are not the Bible (though its lyrics are based on biblical concepts by a variety of saints and sinners). 
Some reasons for worship music dislike may be loud song volume, endless chorus repetition, the emotional hypnotic state (worshipers tend to be in), or the ability to be taken to a place in their heart they’d rather not visit.
 Like many around you, how does one become completely (and joyfully) engaged in the worship music of the service (as opposed to leaving during worship time)? The answer for each individual is as unique as the complex creation God made them.
Good news, worshipping is not just limited to music. An artist can worship God as he draws or paints. Parents honor and adore God as they raise children that love Jesus. As I wrote this article, I was worshipping God (in that I was thinking about how I could challenge and bless you in Jesus name).
The woman who sews (or quilts) has found an original way to lift her earthly gift straight up to the Heavens in praise. When one studies The Bible and learns more about God, they are worshipping Him in a very real way. Remember, most things in one’s life can be a form of worship as long as they are presented to God the Father with an open heart.
I must confess I struggle with worship music. This article was as much written for me as others. It would be nice to have a magical wand that could be waved over me, and automatically put me in full jubilant worship mode (hands and arms raised high, face lifted to Heaven with eyes closed). I sometimes wonder if that can ever happen to me. I wonder if this will ever happen. One can always pray for others (or get prayer) during the music portion of a Sunday morning service. This is an important task in God’s eyes.

Please always know that you are loved by God. (He doesn’t care where you are in your spiritual journey with Him.)  Think about this. Maybe every question you ever had involves running---right into the arms of Jesus, who has all the answers you will ever need. 

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