In some ways worship is like prayer—a bit elusive, hard to define concisely or assign a structure to, and yet something you can’t help but recognize and participate in when it flows from genuine passion. One thing is certain: true worship always focuses on who God is.
What are other signs of true worship? How is it cultivated? What stifles or destroys it? What kind of music fuels it? How can pastors and music leaders provide the best possible environment for people to worship unashamedly and without distraction? And how do modern technology and changing music styles affect worship in the church?
We hope these suggested resources will help clarify the essential elements of true worship. When you engage in this vital communication with God, you’ll be surprised how quickly your worries and negative thoughts evaporate!
“Discovering the "Missing Jewel" of the Church”
by Charles R. Swindoll
Chuck Swindoll points out that the idea of worship has become too vaguely understood in the church today. Many liken worship to a particular style of music or teaching. Many think it has to do with a certain feeling. After recognizing these and other misconceptions, Chuck explains what worship really means and encourages us to focus on it more regularly.
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Other Related Articles
“Worship: A Commitment . . . Not a War, Part One"
John 4:16–23; Acts 2:41–43
Striving to meet other people’s expectations and demands can leave us feeling shallow and desolate. We need to stop and reconsider what’s important—as individuals and as churches. When we do, we’ll quickly discover that we’re missing the one, essential ingredient that we were made for: worship.
"Worship: A Commitment . . . Not a War, Part One," MP3
"Worship: A Commitment . . . Not a War, Part Two," MP3
"What Every Worshiper Should Remember," CD
"We Focus Our Worship," CD
"Leviticus: God's Picture Book on Worship," MP3
Browse through our list of products to find books, audio series, and additional resources to help you learn more about what worship really means.
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The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal
by Charles R. Swindoll
hardcover book
The twenty-first-century church is eroding. Seeking greater cultural relevancy, the church has drifted away from its dependence on the Bible. In far too many churches, worship is wispy, preaching is puny, and eternal impact is small. What does the church need? An awakening!
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Here We Kneel: Moving Forward on Our Knees
softcover journal
Worship and prayer are first cousins and sometimes look and act alike. Stir your soul to worship and prayer with this inspiring journal. You’ll be motivated by enriching prayers from the past, stirring quotations from Chuck Swindoll, and action-provoking Scriptures; and you’ll find plenty of space to record your praise and prayers on the undated pages.
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So, You Want to Be Like Christ? A Musical Companion
CD
When words seem to fail, let music express your heart to God. This special collection of worship songs performed by America’s Tenor™ Steve Amerson is sure to fill your home with sounds of spiritual refreshment and personal inspiration.
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