The following post, titled 'Spirit & Truth-Recharge', is based on our True Worship Series across C3 Sydney's 11 locations.
“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the
true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father
is seeking such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship
him must worship in spirit and truth.”
John 4:23-24 ESV
In John 4, Jesus is discussing worship with a Samaritan. She is part of a world divided in belief about where true worship takes place (mountain or temple). In her attempts to discuss the where of worship, Jesus directs her to the Who of worship. In her pursuit for truth (though a religious woman), she is far from finding anything that can quench the thirst of her soul. But Jesus directs her attention back to the only one who can truly satisfy.
True worship engages both heart and mind. Worship is founded in a vital and real relationship with God and in a true perception of Him. Worship combines an emotional expression of the heart with the revelation and understanding of God. God is Spirit and He is looking for people to worship Him in the Spirit. Genuine worship is when your heart feels what you are singing and praying.
Rest
The fourth of God’s ten commandments is about a Sabbath, a rest day. We must stop and rest, just as God did after He created us. We need to give time to recharge, reflect, think, and find perspective. When we do this unto God it is worship. We are hard-wired by God to be filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is essential to empower us to live a life in the Spirit. Unless we stop and rest we will not be able to hear God. When we hear God we find His truth and wisdom.
Isaiah 40:28-31
You will neither faint nor grow weary when you pace yourself in accordance with God’s Word and tune your mind into His truth. Allow Him to illuminate your mind and thoughts with His truth. Stop trying to work it out yourself. Stop, breathe, worship, wait, be filled, be empowered, and rise up refreshed and declare His purposes over your life.
Trump facts with truth
To align your heart with God in worship you must believe and align your thoughts with His truth and not the facts of your circumstances. This will mean confessing and declaring His truth, putting off negativity and fear, and putting on faith and hope and courage. Create your God-filled world with your God-filled words from your God-filled heart.
To Discuss:
• Are there areas in your life where you feel weary or dry ? In what ways can you stop and find refreshment in God’s presence?
• Reflect on the times when God has spoken to you and changed your life by changing your way of thinking. Where do you need His power and change now in your thoughts?
• Is rest a scheduled part of your week ? Is what you are doing to rest recreating you?
Click here to watch the online service on the message 'Spirit & Truth- Recharge'.
