We all can and should pour our hearts out to God. Many times this is done is by "the Spirit itself [making] intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8:26)
We can and should praise and worship Him, out of our own individuality. No eloquence is required to speak to or praise our Father. He is pleased with our offerings that come from a humble heart in spirit and truth.
God is seeking true worshippers, ones that worship in both spirit and truth. Not cold heartless bare facts - and not just "free-spirit", any ol’ thing my heart feels. Worship requires spirit and truth. Our praise should overflow from our heart’s love, in knowing Him as He truly is - as His Word declares Him to be.
When we praise Him in the congregation, when we publicize His praise, proclaim it in the sanctuary or to the world, the greatest praise and the greatest worship come from the heart that is overflowing with His greatness - and that knows how to express it beautifully and truthfully.
Back to our quote: "A good hymn is the best use to which poetry can be devoted," John Greenleaf Whittier.
It can be easy to get caught up in a new catchy tune and lyrics - but are they spirit (life) and truth? Read the words of the hymn I just posted before this. Compare that with some of the latest, contemporary pop praise & worship songs. Compare how long a "new" song is usually sung before it becomes old and boring - and you’re listening for the next "latest greatest". Catchy little ditties usually become meaningless cliches in short order. (Don’t read this that ALL new praise or worship songs are such. Just do some comparisons.)
It takes substance to hold our thoughts very long. A babe may thrive on milk for a while, but he grows quickly and needs bread - food to chew on, and in time is even able to handle the richness of meat. Yet, no one can thrive on syrupy, kool-aid or soda pop.
It takes substance, beauty and truth to make worship music that endures throughout many ages. That connects the saints with our brothers that have gone before us and who are yet to come. That joins us together to worship our God in spirit and truth.
SDG,
Lisa @ Me and My House
0