Raise a Hallelujah Sermon Series - Part 4

Sermon follow-up 11/4/24

Introduction
Today, as we wrap up our Raise a Hallelujah Sermon Series, we talk about the essence of how we worship. We explore Psalm 145 to get a biblical perspective on how we can worship God in spirit AND in truth: not having to choose one or the other, but naturally engaging in both.

What is Worship?

• Worship as a Lifestyle - Worship is more than just singing songs on a Sunday morning; it's a lifestyle. It's about living in a way that honors God in everything we do. This means our actions, thoughts, and words should reflect our reverence for Him.
• Worship in Spirit and Truth - John 4:24 tells us to worship God in spirit and truth. This means engaging both our hearts and minds in worship. It's not just about the emotional experience but also about understanding and proclaiming the truth of who God is.

How to Worship: Practical Steps

• Humble Yourself Before God - Psalm 145:1 says, "I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever." The Hebrew word for "bless" here is "barak," which means to kneel. This act of kneeling symbolizes humility and reverence. Whether physically or in our hearts, we should bow before God, acknowledging His greatness and our dependence on Him.
• Tell of His Great Works - Psalm 145:4 states, "One generation shall commend your works to another." The word "commend" is "shabach" in Hebrew, meaning to praise or commend. Sharing stories of God's faithfulness and mighty works with others, especially the next generation, is a powerful form of worship. It builds faith and encourages those around us.
• Raise Your Hands in Praise - Psalm 145:10 says, "All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord." The phrase "give thanks" is "yadah" in Hebrew, which means to extend hands. Raising our hands in worship is a natural expression of our awe and gratitude towards God. It signifies victory, surrender, desperation, and testimony.

Life Application
Worship is a beautiful, multifaceted act that involves our whole being. By humbling ourselves, sharing His works, and physically expressing our praise, we can engage in worship that honors God and transforms us. Let's take these steps this week and see how God moves in our lives.

Challenge for the Week
This week, let's take a step to deepen our worship. Here are a few practical ways to apply what we've learned:
1. Limit Distractions: Try leaving your phone in the car or turning it off during worship to focus solely on God.
2. Share God's Faithfulness: Spend time with family or friends sharing how God has been faithful in your life.
3. Physical Expression: If you feel led, try raising your hands during worship or singing a little louder. Let your body express what's in your heart.