Acceptable Worship

 Is your worship to God acceptable? Is it pleasing in His sight? These questions should evoke self-examination in any sincere Christian. These questions lead us to a more important question, “What makes our worship and religious activities acceptable unto God? Both Testaments agree that acceptable worship does not begin with adherence to traditions, rituals, and gatherings, but in an individual’s daily life before God. Religious activities cannot be used as a substitute for a personal, vibrant, and healthy relationship with Christ.

Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hateth: they are a trouble unto me; I am weary to bear them. And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood. Isaiah 1:13-15 (KJV)

In Isaiah’s day, the nation of Israel had departed from following the Lord in righteousness and holiness in their lives. They adhered to all of the religious requirements of the Law. However, the Lord was not pleased with their worship.  It was unacceptable.

Today, millions of Christians are involved in ministries, churches, missions, and community endeavors all under the banner of Christ, but their personal lives are not reflective of Christ.  Though Christ loves us and is full of compassion, He requires His followers to have lives characterized by goodness.

On this day, look at your relationship with God. Do you hide behind your gifts, alms, and good works? Or, do you personally reflect an attitude, disposition, and lifestyle that demonstrate that you know Christ in a personal way? In examining these things, you can know whether your worship is acceptable.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, help me to present my life and service to you in an acceptable manner. May my worship of Christ be acceptable always. Amen.”