A cold war existed between the Jews and Samaritans when it came to the issue of worship. The woman at the well distinguished the dividing line in this worship war: “Our fathers worshiped in this mountain [Mount Gerizim], and you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship” (John 4:20). […]
Read MoreCategory Archives: Worship
Mean What You Sing
Nothing touches the human heart deeper than music. This is never more true than when a group of Christians sings heartily unto their Lord. Many a cold heart on skid row has melted as the strains of some old hymn lingered in the steamy streets and sleazy alleys surrounding a gospel mission. When congregations sing […]
Read MoreMusic’s Effective Ministry
God had His hand on this young man whose music not only would fill the heart of a depressed king overwhelmed by blackness, but also would someday fill His written Word. Thus, David, with his primitive stringed instrument, walked bravely into that dark place where Saul was living. Saul was willing to try anything. “Provide […]
Read MoreMaking Melody
God’s sharp sword stabbed me deeply this week is I was on a scriptural hunt in the Ephesian letter. I was searching for a verse totally unrelated to the one that sliced its way into me. It was another of those verses I feel sorry for (like John 3:17 and 1 John 1:10—look ’em up). […]
Read MoreDiscovering the “Missing Jewel” of the Church
Worship . . . let’s think about worship. When was the last time you decided to stop playing “church” and start really worshiping? If the truth were known, many believers don’t have a clue what worship is. We wonder, Does worship mean I have to hold my hands up when I sing and pray, like […]
Read MoreAll of a Quiver
I love to spend time in the Psalter. The Book of Psalms is a collection of songs and prayers. Some have referred to it as ancient Israel’s hymnal. The poetry of the psalms is compact and profound – they work like pictures for the mind and emotions; and we know a picture is often worth […]
Read MoreSeven Ways to Cultivate Joy
Want more joy in your day? Cultivate it! Joy springs from viewing the day’s events from eternity’s perspective. With this intentional focus, you’re sure to see today differently—with more joy and conviction that God is at work in your life. 1. Rehearse with God the reasons you trust Him. Tell Him which of His attributes […]
Read MoreSongless Saints
I was on a scriptural safari. Prowling through the Ephesian letter, I was tracking an elusive, totally unrelated verse when God’s sharp sword flashed, suddenly slicing me to the core. . . . speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord. (Ephesians […]
Read MoreHow to Recognise a Healthy Church
Are you looking for a church? Just any church? Or a truly healthy one? Perhaps you’ve moved and are unfamiliar with the area. Or you could be a new Christian in need of a place to worship. Or maybe rather than look for a new church, you want to learn how to breathe new life […]
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