Today’s scripture: Psalm 34 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Julie Walsh):
I think I have cried sweet tears of worship during every Michael W. Smith concert I’ve ever attended, dating all the way back to his concerts at Six Flags in the late ’80s. The clip below from the concert my husband and I attended in Houston was no different. (If you look closely, you may see us about twelve rows from the stage.) The surge of emotions and the joy of worship are still very real today whenever I recall this moment or sing through the words.
Music has undeniably been a key component of my worship. A beautiful melody, a powerful accompaniment, and stirring lyrics lift my spirit in a way that seems to meet my Creator. But deep within the music lays something even greater — contemplation, prayer, gratitude…
I am a firm believer that true worship can be such an individual experience that it can happen in any circumstance in any form. I defy the preacher who says I cannot worship God in the middle of a rock concert, a monster truck show, a delicious dinner, or in rush hour traffic. Why? Because worship is telling and/or showing God how important my relationship is that we have together. It is a way of daily life, taking my Savior along for every step of the day’s journey.
Maybe your worship language isn’t music. Maybe it’s a hike on a park trail, walking your dogs, sweating through a difficult exercise routine, or a quiet moment in the busyness of the day. Whatever it is and wherever you are, God delights in your worship!
Thought for the day: Lord, draw me near to You today. Help me to make worship a way of life, remembering to honor You as I move through my day. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.