worship

A dear friend taught me a lesson about worship. Her main point was that we must be care-full of what we sing or pray to God, that it must be true. Don't sing the words to some new church song, or even an old time-tested hymn, without thinking about what you are singing. Make sure it is biblical and true and proper.

I don't want to go into details as to what song had set off this lecture, and it is safe to say that she and I did not even always agree on our interpretations of songs. But she has a good point. I don't want to sing a song in mock honor to God, just because it has a catchy melody, if it is not reflecting His true essence.

So this morning I was driving to work, honestly trying to worship God. I am so thankful for some recent events, doors opening, doors closing, etc. I know God is orchestrating things. I'm not always fully awake, really, when I'm headed to work, but I do the best I can. I popped a favorite cd in the stereo and started singing along.

And it struck me. The song I was singing was true of God -- not a doubt in my mind. But was it true of me, from my perspective of the song? Oh. Hmm.

So I have this lingering question... is it ok to sing that song, since it is a true reflection of God? Will singing songs like that, that aren't quite where I am spiritually, help me to grow? help me to get there? Or should I refrain until I can sing with all honesty?

The Bible teaches that we should "speak the truth in love" that we may "grow up" and that we should "be renewed in the spirit" of one's "mind" and "put on the new man". (Ephesians 4) Just off the top of my head, I'm thinking of these verses and I'm thinking that knowing, memorizing, reciting, meditating on scripture is one way (often taught) of renewing the mind. Does the memorization, recitation, singing of songs help in the same process?

The beautiful thing is that I had that time of fellowship with God. It may not have been perfect, but it was good. I don't have all the answers, but I do want to grow, be renewed, and always try to speak the truth to the best of my knowledge. For now, that is enough. Someday, I suppose I'll figure out the rest.

All of You is more than enough for all of me, For every thirst and every need.
You satisfy me with Your love, And all I have in You is more than enough.