Worship is an important part of Christian life.  It is something that we should do, not only by necessity (“have to”) but also with an attitude of willingness (“want to”).  By gathering together to worship God, we offer Him the praise, honor, glory and thanksgiving that He rightfully deserves.  May we always be mindful of the fact that our worship is ultimately directed to our God in heaven.  May we always worship accordingly - in spirit and in truth (John 4:24).  Through such worship, we are the ones that benefit.  We remember the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord and Savior.  We share in fellowship with our brothers-and-sisters-in-Christ.  We are thereby encouraged and strengthened.  We are instructed by the messages which our songs contain.  We grow in our knowledge of God’s word.  We share our thoughts, wishes and burdens with God through the avenue of prayer.  We have the privilege of contributing to the work of the church by giving back a portion of what God has so richly blessed us with.  Through worship, our minds are re-focused on that which is most important and we are motivated to continue steadfastly as a humble servant of God.

     Unfortunately, when it comes to the topic of worship, many people in the religious world have violated God’s specific instructions - that which is unauthorized is added and that which is commanded is eliminated.  In Colossians 2:23, Paul gave a warning against “will worship.”  Studied within its context, we find that “will worship” is indicative of worship formulated by man - the idea of worshipping in accordance to man’s will and ordinances rather than God’s.  To mankind, these practices may seem to be wise and may seem to portray a spirit of humility, devotion and dedication to God.  However, that which appears to be right in the sight of man can still be an abomination in the sight of God.

     There is a big difference between “will worship” and worshipping in accordance with the will of God.  Far too many in this world have focused on “will worship” and have departed from God’s specific instructions regarding it.  Let’s always be mindful of our worship - let’s be sure to participate with focused minds - and let’s do so in spirit and in truth - in accordance with the will of God.