I Bless Your Name (2 Days left!)

Yesterday we had the special treat of having Nicol Sponberg (formerly of Selah) sing with us. She was incredible to work with!

To go off a theme from the service (as well as in our church community), the hardest worship is when you don't feel like it. I'm not talking about when you're tired and just don't want to do it. I'm talking about when life has thrown you a curve and you're reeling in the pain it left. We're all aware of the tragedies our community has suffered since the beginning of this school year. But what about those who are suffering the sting of a broken marriage, the loss of an unborn child, or the uncertainty of a loss of employment. These are the times that it is so hard to worship God. But I have watched so many people the past few months stare life in the face and proclaim that they are going to cling to God no matter what. They know that the key to surviving is to let Him carry them through the storm.

The bible talks about a sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15). This at it's simplest form is worship with a price. John Piper, author and pastor, says this: God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. That is the essence of worship with a price. It's saying, "God, I want more of You no matter what it costs me." Your sacrifice may be emotional or material. It may be following His leading to start a ministry or go on a mission trip...or talk to your neighbor about Christ. Sacrifices of praise in a corporate worship setting may be how you posture your body. When you are led to raise your hands or bow facedown no matter who is around you, you are telling God that He is more important than anything else in this world.

God- I pray for all who are going through tough times. Help them to offer up a sacrifice of praise. Let it be true in our lives that You are most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in You. Amen.