Focusing In

In his book "On Worship", H.B. Charles shares a story regarding worshipers arriving to hear Henry Ward Beecher , the famous pastor of the Plymouth Church in Brooklyn. They were disappointed to find that the pulpit would be filled by his less prominent brother, Thomas.  Can you imagine, the humiliation and embarrassment that filled that sanctuary as people began to walk out? Thomas stood in the pulpit and announced, "All those who came to worship Henry Ward Beecher may leave, but all who came to worship God may remain."

Our worship is not to please ourselves or others. One pastor shared a story where a member walked out and snapped, "I didn't like the worship this morning!" The pastor fired back, "Good, we aren't here to worship you!" We have an audience of One, King Jesus.

Hebrews 13:15-16 (NKJV)
¹⁵  Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.
¹⁶  But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.  

It is so important to remember the target of our praise.  It is King Jesus and He deserves no half hearted attempt, but He deserves all we have.  Our heart's affection and our minds attention.

Is the Lord pleased with my worship?