The Call to Worship

Sing to the Lord: A Call from Psalm 96
"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." (Psalm 96:1-3)

Worship is not merely a Sunday morning activity; it’s the overflow of a heart captivated by God’s goodness. Psalm 96 paints a picture of joyous, all-encompassing praise. As we continue our series on worship, let’s explore how worship shapes our hearts, strengthens our spirits, and keeps our focus on the Lord.

Recap: Created to Worship
We were designed to worship. Whether through song, service, or lifestyle, worship is our natural response to God’s greatness.

• Luke 6:45 reminds us that what fills our hearts will flow from our mouths.
• Like anticipating the grand finale of a parade, our greatest joy should be in Jesus.
• Guard your heart against idolatry—anything that replaces God as your primary source of joy becomes an idol.

Worship and Victory
Worship is not only an expression of joy but also a weapon in spiritual battles.

• The apostles rejoiced after suffering for Christ, considering it an honor. (Acts 5:41-42)
• Joshua and the Israelites experienced victory when they shouted in worship. (Joshua 6:20)
• Worship may not eliminate hardships, but it aligns our hearts with God’s purposes and strengthens our resolve.

The Heart Condition for Worship
True worship stems from a heart of gratitude. Bitterness, resentment, or ungratefulness hinders our praise.

• James 3:9-12 warns against using our mouths for both blessing and cursing.
• Just as a fish tank requires the right pH levels to sustain life, our spiritual health influences our worship.

Seven Spheres of Worshipful Dominion
Worship extends beyond singing. It permeates every area of our lives. Here are seven spheres where our worship should be evident:

1. Language (Speech & Words)
   • Our words shape our worship.
   • Psalm 96:1-3 calls us to sing, proclaim, and declare God’s glory.
2. Thinking (Mind & Thoughts)
   • Direct your thoughts to what is good and true.
   • Philippians 4:8 urges us to dwell on noble and pure things.
3. Relationships (Love & Community)
   • Loving others reflects worship.
   • John 13:34-35 commands us to love as Christ loved.
   • Early believers worshiped joyfully together. (Acts 2:46-47)

Don't Surrender Your Worship
In today’s world, it’s easy to trade our worship of God for entertainment or harmful influences. Be mindful of what you consume.

Whie people might label me a bit legalistic, andcertainly this might not win any fans, we have to recognize that certain activites, groups of fellowship, television shows and even songs invite anxiety, depression, and spiritual darkness. Artists like Doja Cat, Beyonce, Iniko, Doechii, and Taylor Swift often incorporate themes that are contrary to a life of worship. I challenge you to examine the lyrics and consider if these are words we should be speaking over ourselves.

Examples:

• Doechii - Anxiety: Struggles with fear and turmoil.
• Doja Cat - Demons: References demonic influence.
• Iniko - Jericho: Glorifies darkness through occult imagery.

Instead, fill your atmosphere with music that exalts God and brings His peace.

1. Time (Priorities & Stewardship)

• Time is a gift from God. Use it wisely.
• Psalm 96:13 reminds us that God will judge in righteousness.
• Ephesians 5:15-16 urges us to make the most of our time.
• Psalm 90:12 teaches us to number our days with wisdom.
• Colossians 3:23 encourages us to work as unto the Lord.

2. Talent (Gifts & Abilities Used for Worship)

• Every talent is an opportunity for worship.
• In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25), the faithful servant was commended for using his gifts.
• 1 Peter 4:10 calls us to serve others with our gifts.
• Romans 12:6-8 encourages us to use our gifts enthusiastically.
• Matthew 25:21 reminds us that faithful stewardship brings God’s commendation.

3. Resources (Money, Possessions, and Generosity)

• Money is not evil, but the love of it is. (1 Timothy 6:10)
• Luke 16:14 shows how the Pharisees’ love for money caused them to sneer at Jesus.
• Give generously with a cheerful heart.
• 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 promises that generosity results in blessing.
• Proverbs 3:9-10 encourages us to honor God with our resources.
• Luke 6:38 affirms that giving results in abundant blessings.

Final Thoughts
Worship shifts our focus from our circumstances to our Creator. It aligns our hearts, influences our responses, and builds a victorious, God-centered life.
Don't surrender your worship. Let every moment be an opportunity to glorify God with your time, talent, and resources. Embrace the call to worship and experience the joy of living a life that honors Him.
"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth." (Psalm 96:1)