We are continuing to look at various aspects of the kingdom of God (or of heaven). Being part of a kingdom means living by the regulations of that kingdom. In Hebrews 12:28 we read, “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.” This kingdom is not just futuristic, it is a right now kingdom which we have, and are receiving. Remember Luke 17:21, “The kingdom of God is within you.” This inner kingdom is the beginning of what the future earthly and heavenly kingdoms will be the culmination. Living in this kingdom (or should I say having this kingdom living in us) calls for our service and worship. Looking into Hebrews 12:28 the word serve in the Greek text means “to minister… [or] render religious homage.” Kingdom service takes on many aspects which include praise and worship. The Amplified Bible properly renders part of this verse “…offer to God pleasing service and acceptable worship…” Psalm 33:1 tells us that “…Praise from the upright is beautiful (or suitable)” And Hebrews 13:15 tells us we should “…continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name.” However keep in mind that praise and worship are more than verbalization, which it includes, but it is a daily lifestyle. I read in a devotional book by Chris Tiegreen the following powerful statement, “Worship is a learned art. It is an attitude of the heart that continually acknowledges God and values His character.” Colossians 1:10 says, “walk (live) worthy (appropriately) of the Lord fully pleasing Him…” Reverence in Hebrews 12:28 is more than words, it is a heart filled with awe toward Him. And finally from Psalm 29:2, “Give unto the Lord the glory due to His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.”
Worship
-By Rose Hill
We worship the Lord in holy array,
For it is really a wonderful day.
We give Him the glory due His name,
No one else deserves the fame.
We are blessed with such great beauty,
When in His presence we are free.
His strength is seen upon our face,
As we rejoice in His wonderful grace.
Our God is one who has much power,
We bless His name this very hour.
With reverence and fear we do tremble,
As in His presence we assemble.
Yes we our Lord do extol,
And worship Him with all our soul.
We come to kneel and bow down,
In worshiping God great joy we have found.
Unless otherwise noted Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version copyright by Thomas Nelson Co. Used by permission.