The Lifestyle of Worship

This lesson is titled the lifestyle of worship.  We have heard of "the lifestyles of the rich and famous" but let’s define the word lifestyle.

The word life describes our existence in this world.  The word style is derived from a word meaning a writing instrument.  Thus a lifestyle is the instrument with which you write your existence in this world.  Are your actions writing an ordered description that points the way towards God, or does it tell a tale merely of survival in a world of chaos?

The Benefits of Worship

The basic human reaction to pleasure is not satisfaction, but rather craving for more. Hence, no matter what we achieve, it only increases our craving, not our satisfaction. 

The idea that human desires are insatiable and that craving leads to misery is not new wisdom. It a keystone of most religions. The Swedish term Lagom is the modern twist on an ancient idea. Literally meaning “just right”, it refers to “just enough,” and it involves finding contentment in satisfaction.  It is another way of referring to a life in balance.  That lagom between spiritual and physical needs and desires.

As we studied last week, worship is due to God regardless of what we may get out of it.  When we come to God in worship, especially balanced worship, we find all that we need.  That is the point of the lesson today.  More than "what's in it for me?" We learn that the question should be "how can I satisfy God."  

Attitude in Worship

Worship.  What does the word mean to you?  

Variously it is described as:

 

An act of devotion, respect, and submission to God.  

 

An act of showing reverence and devotion to someone or something that is considered sacred or important. 

An act of religious devotion usually directed towards a deity or God. 

An act to honor or show reverence for as a divine being or supernatural power.

Is worship only an act?  Jesus defined true worship as worshiping God in spirit and truth -- a wholehearted and loving devotion to God. This study shows that we are to come to God with a heart fully focused on Him alone.

Inspiration for Worship

Most of us were taught from an early age to thank those who give us something. Over time, thankfulness becomes an automatic response to the goodness and kindness of others toward us. This is a part of being a member of a civil society.

We should all be motivated to thank and worship God with our lives and lifestyle.  God’s goodness and love lead us to worship Him as good citizens of God's Kingdom.

We look in Psalm 25:4-15 at a Pslam “of David.”  While of David might indicate belonging to, about, on behalf of, or (written) by David, it can also indicate that a psalm is one with prophetic content pointing toward the Messiah, Jesus Christ.