“…Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

John 4:23-24

 

The worship that goes most deeply into my soul, is that which makes me feel most connected with Jesus. At such times I feel my spirit rise up to meet him and I know that he comes down to me—and to all of us who are worshiping. It’s a kind of communion. A gathering together to worship with God.

But most precious of all to me is when I stop singing, close my eyes, and just listen to the voices surrounding me—voices filling the Sanctuary.

Is that how it is for Jesus as he listens to us worship? Does it bring him joy?

Oh Lord, help us fill your heart with joy!

 

In the late 1990’s, singer-songwriter Matt Redman’s home church felt there was something missing in the worship. They decided to strip out all diversion and distraction. That included the entire sound system and the worship band.

At first there was just an embarrassing silence. But eventually the congregation discovered their own voices, singing unaccompanied, encountering God in a new way.

This popular worship song was Matt’s personal response to what happened. Very much from the heart.

When the music fades
And all is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that’s of worth
That will bless your heart

Want to hear the whole thing, together with the music? Click here and get ready to worship:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4RUjGsTfks