Friday, March 28

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I believe many Christians have a lack of power and joy that is due in large part to their lack of participation in corporate worship/praising. The God who gave His Son to die in our place to save us from eternal punishment is being praised...and yet we can sit or stand with no sign of emotion, no shout of 'Hallelujah,' refusing to join in the song of the redeemed? What?! God is worthy of our thanks and praise, and he commands (not suggests) that we praise him.  

“Worship acceptable to God is the missing crown jewel in evangelical Christianity.
Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave to make worshipers out of rebels!  I am of the opinion that we should not be concerned about working for God until we have learned the meaning and delight of worshiping Him…I fear that there are many professing Christians who do not want to hear such statements about their ‘busy schedule,’ but it is the truth. God is trying to call us back to that for which He created us—to worship Him and to enjoy Him forever!”  - A.W. Tozer

The Psalms of course are our best source for praising God, but just in case you were thinking that all of this praising is just an Old Testament thing... 

• And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ  - Ephesians 5:18-20

We are strengthened and blessed when we sing praises to God with the God’s people. Our focus on God's greatness is renewed. Others are encouraged and comforted. As we worship God together, God speaks to our hearts!  Did you know that Paul’s mission work was birthed in the midst of corporate worship?

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.   - Acts 13:2-3

Each local church a part of the eternal song, with the ultimate goal of Revelation. God wants local churches unified, adding their part to the great song of praise. One day every language ever spoken will come together in a glorious song of praise to JESUS CHRIST! No king has ever received that glory.

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. - Romans 15:5-6

And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation - Revelation 4:9

What do you need to be a true worshipper?  What do you need to praise the Lord?  
You don’t have to be a great singer; you just need a great Savior! 

Jeff Frazier