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In our previous post, I started a series on how we, as followers of Jesus, should prepare for worship services, whether on Sundays or any time we gather. In summary, I emphasized the importance of handing over our burdens to Jesus before attending a service, as these can hinder our ability to worship freely. These burdens might include harsh words spoken to you, relationship disappointments, financial struggles, and more. We must be ready to surrender all these to Jesus before offering our praise and worship to Him.

Before diving into part 2 on preparing for worship, I want to recognize that for some, especially new believers, Sunday morning might be the only opportunity to release their burdens. While I advocate for daily letting go of every weight the enemy places on us, I also understand that many will arrive at service still carrying heavy loads, using this time to unburden themselves. Often, I witness Jesus showing up for them during worship. They may start with a heavy heart, but by the end of the service, their joy is restored, and it’s evident how the Lord has lifted their burdens. This is a reality for many, including seasoned believers. There is no judgment or condemnation if you find yourself in this situation. However, we must strive to reach a point where we seek God first and allow Him to carry our burdens before we offer our praise and worship during our corporate worship. By doing so, your spirit will soar from the moment you enter the church, and you’ll begin receiving encounters from the Lord right away. And also, it ensures that all believers gathered are of one mind and Spirit. In such unity, there is great power!

In addition to entrusting your burdens to the Lord for a lighter spirit, maintain a posture of expectation. It’s unfortunate when people skip worship time, thinking it’s less important than other parts of the service, viewing it merely as singing songs. Some may skip because they dislike the lights, song choices, or a particular worship leader. While everyone is entitled to their opinions, worship is not optional in God’s kingdom; it’s a command. Worshipping God can take many forms, like surrendering our lives, giving financially, building altars, and offering our time. But, singing and dancing before Him as one is vital when we gather as a Church to seek His presence.

Psalm 100:4 (NKJV) reminds us, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; be thankful to Him, and bless His name.” Hebrews 13:15 (NKJV) commands us to offer a sacrifice of praise: “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.” Often, we express these praises through singing. God delights in our praise and worship when it comes from a pure heart. When God is pleased, He reveals Himself mightily. So, why not approach worship with great expectation? It is not the worship leader who comes to you, but Jesus, who meets you, heals you, and wipes away your tears as you worship Him. The way you receive God’s Word on Sunday is linked to your worship preparation. Don’t be misled into treating worship casually and expect to receive God’s Word profoundly. It’s impossible! God is a God of order and of honor. If praise and worship are part of your gathering, whether before or after the sermon, you must honour that and participate fully. You never know when God will show up!

If God isn’t moving during your worship services, there could be various reasons, including His own divine will. However, it might also be due to our lack of expectation for His presence! Our level of expectation reflects our faith in Him, demonstrating our belief that He is among us. As a body, let’s elevate our expectations, so we can witness God performing great and mighty acts in our gatherings as we worship Him!

I hope this post blessed you.

until next time,

shalom.

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