Mt. Salem-Wyaconda Southern Baptist Association

A Word from Your Director of Missions

Worship, in its most valid form, is far more than ritual or routine; it’s a profound encounter with our living God.

Worship must lead us to a place in our lives that will transform us to a place of surrender!

First, we must surrender wholeheartedly with a deliberate and open-hearted offering of ourselves to our Creator and Lord.  We need to let go of our pride and fears, and open ourselves to His Will and understanding of His Word.  We must bow ourselves, whether literally or metaphorically, and acknowledge our limitations while embracing the possibility of transformation of our lives.  We must be open to allow the power of His grace to cover and flow through us and let His Word instruct us into who our God is and what He will do in our lives.  We can surrender through a time of prayer, meditation on His Word, and songs of worship.  These are just a few ways, but ultimately, we must be willing to surrender and be receptive to the leading of the Spirit as it guides and challenges us to His calling in our lives.

There must be honest self-examination and openness, letting go of anxieties and distractions, trusting the process, even when the outcome is uncertain, and responding to divine promptings with courage.

Next, we must be present, because deep worship cannot occur without our presence.  We must engage our heart, mind, and body.  We must be willing to listen, not just with our ears, but with our souls.  We can not allow distractions to derail us, such as phones, talking, and things that will distract others.  Your part is vital to the whole when it comes to the worship of our God and Savior.  So, when I refer to being present, I think about setting aside time and space that is free from distraction.  Engage in a song of worship to bring you closer to your Savior, and honor those who have a desire to be in God’s house and worship Him.

Then, be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to move in and through you.  Look for ways to be creative in your expression of worship.  Remember, worship, even though it is with a body of fellow believers in Jesus Christ, is still your time with God.  Make this time your time, and invite others to join with you.

If you make the time and apply this, you will find worship to be a time of renewal, revitalization, and transformation as you encounter your living God and Savior.