Sunday Seed Thoughts: What Are You Bringing To Worship?

My older readers remember when every church had a printed bulletin and mailed them out. I used to get them from all over the country.

One of the regular writers who must have been a syndicated columnist was “Selected.” I suppose he was related to “Anonymous,” and “Anon” who were also regular contributors.

In my worship folder is a short list by “Brother Selected” on things to bring to worship and things to leave at home. Here they are with a few brief comments and scriptural references.

Here are five things you ought to bring to worship every week.

1. A cheerful disposition.

The Psalmist penned, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord’” (Ps. 122:1). . Are you?

Sadly, some folks seem disgruntled and discontent with coming to worship and by the worship. The Bible often uses the words, “glad,” “joy” and “rejoice” in relation to worship.

2. A pleasant smile.

Our outward expression is often an indicator of our inner disposition. Indeed, “A glad heart makes a cheerful face (Prov. 15:13). “Smile! It increases your face value,” advised Robert Harling.

3. An open mind.

An open mind is a receptive mind. Open to the Word of God. Open to the work of God. Open to the worship of God. Like the Bereans who received Paul’s preaching with readiness, let’s be attentive to the preacher’s exhortations. “Searching the Scriptures” to verify their accuracy (Ax. 17:11).

4. A pure heart.

Truly worshiping “in spirit and in truth” is impossible apart from a clear conscience. If your relationship with God is not right, get it right (Matt. 5:20; 6:1-13. If your relationship with a brother in Christ is not right, get it right (Matt 5:24).

5. A humble spirit.

Pride is a barrier to worshiping God acceptably. “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble” (I Pet. 5:5).

Worship ought to remind us of our sinfulness. Unworthiness. And weakness. But as we worship with a humble and contrite spirit we’re reminded of God’s love, grace, and mercy that allows us to come into His presence. And to enjoy cleansing by the blood of Christ.

“Brother Selected” also suggests some things to not bring to worship. Home Problems. Business worries. Plans for the coming week. Vacation plans. Envy. Malice. And insincerity.

What are you bringing to worship today?

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman