2026-01-11 What Is True Worship?

Discover True Worship: Four Transformative Truths That Will Change How You Honor God

What if the worship songs we sing on Sunday mornings are just the beginning? What if true worship is something far more costly, more beautiful, and more life-changing than we've ever imagined?

In John 12, we find Mary doing something that seemed wasteful to everyone watching. She took a pound of expensive perfume—worth nearly a year's wages—and poured it over Jesus' feet, then wiped them with her hair. The room filled with fragrance. Judas immediately criticized her, suggesting the perfume should have been sold to help the poor. But Jesus defended her, recognizing her act as true worship.

This powerful moment reveals what genuine worship looks like when it flows from a transformed heart.

True Worship Costs Us Something

Mary didn't give Jesus her leftovers. She gave Him her most valuable possession. True worship requires sacrifice—our time, our resources, our comfort, our plans. It's easy to worship when it's convenient, but authentic worship often demands something from us.

Martin Luther once said, "A religion that gives nothing, costs nothing, and suffers nothing is worth nothing." When following Jesus begins to infringe on our comfort or routine, that's precisely when our worship becomes real. The widow who gave two small coins gave more than the wealthy because she gave everything she had. God doesn't measure our worship by the amount but by the heart behind it.

True Worship Faces Criticism

When you worship wholeheartedly, expect pushback. Judas questioned Mary's devotion, making it sound reasonable and righteous. But his real motive was greed. Similarly, when we use our resources, time, and energy to honor Christ, others may misunderstand or mock us.

Paul reminds us in Galatians 1:10, "Am I now seeking the approval of man or of God? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ." We must love others unconditionally while striving unconditionally to please God—not the other way around.

True Worship Honors Jesus Above Everything

Mary's worship focused entirely on Jesus. She didn't split her devotion between Christ and something else. We can't worship God and money, God and status, God and relationships. It's God alone or it's not true worship.

Isaiah 42:8 declares, "I am the Lord; that is my name; my glory I give to no other." When we exalt Jesus above everything else in our lives—our careers, our families, our dreams—we're finally worshiping in spirit and truth.

True Worship Overflows from a Transformed Life

Here's the ultimate test: Are people drawn to Jesus because of your life? After Lazarus was raised from the dead, people came to faith not just because of Jesus, but because of Lazarus's testimony. His transformed life overflowed, pointing others to Christ.

If you've been saved and transformed by Jesus, it should show. Your life should overflow with His presence in a way that makes others curious. At work, at home, at the grocery store—are people leaving interactions with you wanting to know more about the One who changed you?

Take the Next Step

Examine your life honestly. Is your worship costly, or do you only give God what's convenient? Are you willing to face criticism for your faith? Does Jesus hold the throne in your life, or are you splitting your devotion? Most importantly, is your transformed life pointing others to Christ?

True worship isn't confined to Sunday mornings. It's a lifestyle that honors Jesus in every moment, every decision, every relationship. It costs us everything, but it's worth everything.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, transform us into true worshipers. Help us surrender everything to You—our time, our resources, our comfort, our very lives. Give us boldness to worship You even when it's costly or criticized. May our lives overflow with Your presence so that others are drawn to You. Make us worshipers who honor Jesus above all else. In His name, Amen.

2025-07-27 FAITH AND LOVE

Discovering God's Faithfulness: Embracing Spiritual Growth in Everyday Life

Have you ever felt like your spiritual journey has hit a plateau, or wondered how to truly experience God's faithfulness in your daily life? You're not alone. Many of us find ourselves caught in the routine of our faith, missing out on the vibrant relationship God desires with us. Let's explore how we can break free from this cycle and embrace the fullness of God's faithfulness.

A Journey Beyond Comfort

This past week, a group from our church traveled to Coquitlam, a city in the northeast corner of Vancouver, to serve at a Vacation Bible School. The experience was eye-opening, as we encountered people from diverse backgrounds, each with their own stories of faith and perseverance. It reminded us that God's presence is not confined to our familiar surroundings but is active and alive across the globe.

In Hebrews 10:19-25, we are encouraged to draw near to God with a sincere heart and full assurance of faith. This passage challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones and engage with God's faithfulness in new and profound ways. Just as the believers in China, mentioned in Nick Ripken's "The Insanity of God," found strength in their underground churches, we too can find strength in our freedom to worship and grow in faith.

The Call to Action: Embrace Discomfort for Growth

The sermon highlighted the importance of not taking our freedom for granted. In countries where Christians face persecution, believers hold fast to their faith despite immense challenges. They understand that the reward of knowing Christ far outweighs the risks. This perspective challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we willing to embrace discomfort for the sake of spiritual growth?

Consider this: When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone to serve others or share your faith? Hebrews 10:24-25 urges us to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together. This is a call to action for us to actively participate in the life of the church and the broader community, encouraging and supporting one another in our spiritual journeys.

Practical Steps to Experience God's Faithfulness

1. Draw Near to God Daily: Make time each day to read Scripture and pray. This consistent practice helps us stay connected to God's presence and guidance.

2. Engage in Community: Join a small group or Bible study where you can build relationships and grow alongside others. Community is essential for encouragement and accountability.

3. Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve within the church or in your local community. Serving others not only blesses them but also deepens your own faith.

4. Embrace Challenges: Don't shy away from situations that stretch your faith. Whether it's sharing your testimony or volunteering for a mission trip, stepping out in faith leads to growth.

A Prayer for Faithfulness

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness. Help us to draw near to You with sincere hearts, trusting in Your promises. Give us the courage to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the challenges that lead to spiritual growth. May we encourage one another in love and good deeds, reflecting Your love to the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

As you go about your week, remember that God's faithfulness is a constant presence in your life. Embrace the opportunities He provides to grow and serve, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.