Worship Devotional - "Worship Is Obedience"

Key Scripture: "Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams." - 1 Samuel 15:22

Reflection

The subject of worship is understood by many as the singing of slow songs as an act of adoration. There is no doubt that this is an expression of worship, but worship is much more than merely singing songs. It is about obeying God.

Scripture says that obedience is better than sacrifice. God loves to hear us sing, but He loves it more when we obey. The first time the word "worship" is used in Scripture is when God asked Abraham to come up to Mount Moriah and sacrifice his son Isaac as an act of worship. It was a giant step of faith and one of the greatest acts of obedience in the Old Testament.

Jesus' life of absolute obedience to the Father epitomized worship. It was a life of obedience that enabled Him to die on the cross for all humanity. One act of disobedience would have disqualified Him. Worship is ultimately measured by obedience.

Could it be that the depth of our worship is better gauged by our response to the last thing God told us to do? I wonder if this is more of a test than how lovingly we sang our last song to Him?

Today's Challenge

Reflect on the last thing God asked you to do. Have you obeyed? Today, take a step of obedience in that area as your act of worship to God.

Prayer

Father, I confess that I have sometimes substituted singing for obedience. Help me understand that true worship is demonstrated through my obedience to Your Word and Your personal instructions for my life. Show me where I need to obey, and give me the courage to do it. Amen.