What does worship mean? I’ve heard the word an awful lot growing up attending church. The main event every Sunday morning was called the “worship service.” That was where the choir sang, an offering was collected, and the pastor preached a sermon. There were some other songs and prayers and maybe some personal testimonies. Sometimes we stood up, and sometimes we sat on pews.

But worship is so much more than that. And also less.

I don’t need any of those physical trappings to worship God. I don’t need a choir or a pastor, a hymnal or a pew, I don’t even need a building. I can do it by myself, but it’s much better accomplished in the company of others. Singing can be involved or not. The Bible doesn’t even need to be involved in this aspect of my Christian life. Joy is always a part though.

The only things required for worship are me and the object of my worship. Fortunately for me, God is always around. I can worship Him anytime, anyplace.

“Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.” (Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬, ‭CSB)‬‬

To worship God, I need to first confess, repent, and accept the atoning sacrifice of Jesus. Through that, I am made holy, worthy of approaching God. When I enter His presence in this state, I am overwhelmed by His magnificence. Worship happens spontaneously.

Being in God’s glorious presence automatically generates worship, adoration and awe. Like seeing the most beautiful sunset I’ve ever seen, but better. Like hearing the most dramatically soaring orchestral composition played perfectly, but better. Like feeling the most profound love and goodness I have ever felt, but so much better.

Here on earth we only get a small taste of His vast glory. One day we will feel its full effects. Then we will finally know what true worship is.

Dear God,

Thank you for your mercy that allows me access to your glorious throne room. When I contemplate all that you are, leaving behind the baggage of my earthly existence, I am in awe of you. I adore everything about you. You are beautiful in every way.