July 7, 2007
The Significance of Worship
by Jossette Santos
Psalm 145 was recited by the Israelites community three times a day in the belief that they will be assured of a place in the world to come. It was prayed in the synagogue enjoining everyone to come to God in faith.
It is only when the church gives supremacy to, worship, that she will be able to feel God’s heart and in turn declare His wondrous works to others. In Psalm 145 vv1-2, we see the Psalmist’s commitment to worship God. The expression “I will” occurred 4x and showed his determination to meet with God.
In vv.18-19, he expressed his confidence that God is always near to those who call Him with sincerity. That God hears and honors His people. The psalmist is convinced that his God is close by ready to help. Worship is an expression of intimacy. The Psalmist says, “My King” which signifies his very personal relationship with God. In v.20, he Says, “I will always praise the Lord; let all creatures praise his holy name forever.” Worship is a daily commitment as expressed in the psalmist’s words “everyday” and “forever and ever.”
Worship is reverence expressed in words and in life. Worship is gratitude to the creator as shown in the words “extol,” “bless,” “praise,” “give thanks.”
Worship is ultimately focused on God. God is central in the Psalter, his object of worship. He addressed God “Lord” and “King.”Psalm 145 enumerates the reasons why we ought to worship God. In vv3-20, for reasons are mentioned.
1) God is great (vv.3-6)
His greatness is shown through His Name (vv 2-3); through His works (v.4); majesty (v.5); through His majesty (v.5); and by His power (v.6)2) God is good (vv.7-10) His goodness is displayed in His compassion, mercy, patience, loving kindness and goodness. He has been good throughout the generations, past, present and future.
2) God is glorious (vv.11-13)
God rules with His royal power. He sits on His throne ruling His majestic kingdom. His might and His good deeds, everyone will know.
3) God is gracious (vv.14-20)
His grace is seen in His Providence. He sustains, raise up, give, open doors and satisfy those who call to Him. God’s grace is known through His saving acts. He is near to those who call for Him; hears the cries of His people and saves them; He protects everyone who loves Him.
The psalmist is a worshiper. He models for us how he shows his adoration for the God He esteems. We, His believers, are called to worship Him. To revel in His love and enjoy the beauty of an intimate relationship with our Creator. We ought to worship Him in times of peace and in times of war; in times of plenty and in time of scarcity; in our homelands or in foreign lands; in season and out of season. For only God deserves our worship.
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