The Dangers Of Making Worship About “Me”

Previously, I viewed worship mainly as a unique experience during Christian gatherings. I was under the impression as a young song-leader that my main goal was to ensure everyone sang songs they truly enjoyed and had little to no complaints. The other young guys and myself would try our best to practice and practice, ensuring that we left a memorable song service for everyone gathered.

Now, about five years later, I still cherish those moments when we collectively sense the presence of joy and harmony in our singing, but my understanding of worship has evolved. I’ve come to realize that Scripture offers a more God focused perspective.

A quote from Hiram Kemp challenged my understanding of worship. “As we come together to worship God, we are in the presence of one another, but most importantly we are in the presence of our God (Psalm 95:6).”

1. Who Is Worship About?

Although I understood that worship centers around God, I frequently found myself centering it on my own feelings, or experiences. When it wasn't about me, I would easily make it about the shared experience of everyone there. I usually measured worship by attendance, conversations made, or the number of smiles in the room. What I overlooked was that the true essence of worship goes beyond our desires and feelings; it is a demonstration of God glorifying Himself in us (Isaiah 43:7).

Through worship, God offers us a profound invitation to experience a glimpse of Heaven's perfection, even amidst our fallen world.

In worship, God graciously invites us to join in what He is already accomplishing. Our response is rooted in a love for God, grounded in Jesus’ redemptive work, and present with His Spirit (John 4:23,24; Ephesians 2:18; Philippians 3:3). Our role is to willingly engage in the exaltation of Jesus, whose sacrifice has allowed for our offerings pleasing to God (1 Peter 2:5).

2. When Does Worship Begin and End?

I won’t attempt to fix what isn’t broken; however, it’s crucial to clarify the misleading notion of separating "bible study" from "worship." In reality, worship encompasses far more than the “five acts” engaged in during a specific time on Sunday. The New Testament provides remarkable examples of how God desires our worship, which includes practices like fasting and various prayer postures. This means that when I arrive at each Sunday gathering, I partially begin worship in some form by intentionally cultivating an attitude of reverence and awe for the Divine.

Rather than being a “specific moment during Sunday services,” true worship is the intentional expression of our hearts when we aim to “do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). I worship God when I am in fellowship with someone at the building, sing praises, give my contribution, listen to the sermon, or pray for a friend.

Furthermore, I can continue to worship as I embrace others after we leave the building or tidy up afterward. My worship persists as I strive to honor Christ in my home, workplace, school, or community. While Scripture acknowledges specific acts of worship collectively (Ephesians 5:19; Philippians 4:14-18; Acts 20:7), all these occur within the broader context of our lifelong “spiritual worship” (Romans 12:1). So, when does worship begin and end? The answer really is dependent on each individual Christian. Every time we collectively assemble and individually prostrate, we have an opportunity to worship God. Though there are some specific acts of worship that we can only ever do while gathered with the Saints, there are certainly other areas of worship we can do continuously and individually.

3. Am I Supposed To Feel Something?

Worship is done BY the Saints, primarily FOR the Saints, yet ultimately directed TOWARD God. That being said, there are certainly moments in worship where, as emotional beings, we will undoubtedly experience “something.” This could be feelings of gratitude, convicting sorrow, deep adoration, or a sense of unifying love; we are bound to feel “something.” I would even challenge myself to consider if I ever worship God without experiencing any emotions. The issue arises when we feel compelled to manufacture these emotions artificially or through manipulation. Additionally, if we come to believe that the feelings we “must” experience serve as a sign of God's presence, we risk falling into sensationalism or emotionalism.

Something will indeed be felt. That “something” should arise naturally and be welcomed. We should never pursue feelings for their own sake, as this risks shifting the focus away from God. When we reduce worship to mere feelings, we inadvertently suggest that our intention for gathering is self-centered and driven by sensationalism.

4. Is Collective Worship Optional?

Convincing ourselves to skip worship or to overlook it entirely can be quite perilous. God not only commands our gatherings, but He also explains the importance of them (Hebrews 10:24,25). It’s true that there are times in our lives when challenges or distractions may overwhelm us. We often feel the weight of missing out on other activities while dedicating that time to God. However, collective worship is a vital and indispensable aspect of our lives. The author of Hebrews urges us not to neglect this assembly, while also providing encouragement on why it matters.

There are people who are burdened and in bondage to sin. We as God’s people are undoubtedly the ones to help rescue them (Galatians 6:1,2). The assembly is not only a place for God’s presence but, also a place for God’s pressed and persecuted people. I have had the opportunity to be present at the bedside of those nearing the end of their lives, though it has been limited. For the few I have met, their desperate search for comfort and connection fills the room. When people are in pain, God is present (Psalm 34:18), and we too should be there for them (Romans 12:15).

There is a Christian brother who left a lasting impression simply by being present. His name is Lionel Timmers. During my time as a young Christian in Guyana, South America, his arrival would often bring a smile to my face and a sense of relief to those around me. As I write this, he remains alive and steadfast in his faith. Perhaps there is someone in your life who has this effect on you, or maybe you are that uplifting presence for someone else. So, before we complicate the need for your presence among the Saints, keep this in mind: your participation, along with God's presence, will create a significant impact.

Conclusion

This Sunday and always, dedicate yourself to worshiping God wholeheartedly. Honor Him in the way He wishes to be honored. Approach Him with sincerity and honesty. May we be reminded to deepen our worship and become more devoted servants of our God.