Real Worship Isn't Business; It's Personal

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You shall have no other gods before Me. (Deuteronomy 5:7, NASB)

In business settings, when a deal did not go as planned, or if a job was lost because of some organizational change, it is often said, "It's not personal; it's just business." Those words are very seldom any consolation to the receiver.

Sometimes as I have visited various churches I feel like I'm actually visiting a movie set in Hollywood, and waiting for the words, "lights, camera, action!" from the director. That is not a slight to any church that uses varying degrees of technology to enhance the overall worship experience. But I believe we have to be careful how we mix the business of worship with the personal ministry of worship. While I am aware there is a business side to church, we have to keep the main thing the main thing. Worship is not business to God - it's personal. God's Word is very clear in saying we are to worship God only. He alone is the object of our praise and our worship. God is really not concerned that we have the proper lighting on stage, or what color the PowerPoint is when we're leading the congregation in song. He doesn't even care how big the building is; God just wants us to come before His presence with sincere hearts, spirit to Spirit, and a mind willing to receive from Him. When God gave Moses the specifications to construct the Tabernacle, His concern was not a piece of real estate; His concern was that His presence dwell there and His people remain mindful of it.

The cry of my heart is that we, as a Body of Christ, never get stuck in the business of worship, to the point that we forget why we gather on Sunday morning - to give God the glory He so truly deserves, and minister to others in the fellowship. Had it not been for Him, none of us would be here to enjoy a sunrise, the beauty of a full moon, or take a deep breath.

If you think worship is just business, I pray you'll re-think your position. Worship is very personal to God. His nature, who He is commands worship. And in His divine authority, He has never requested our praise; He demands it.

Blessings on you. . .
Donna R. Patrick, Contributing Writer

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