But lately, going to church seems to run in cycles. There are times I can't wait to get there. The excitement of being with others who seek Jesus is inspiring, and compels me to want the experience more.
And there are other times when it is all I can do to get out of bed. It's like church is...boring. Like a meal that looks good, but has no seasoning and no taste.
I found that I wanted to worship God for His sake alone. No format, no formula, no agenda. Just worship for worship's sake. But lately there's been something else going on as well.
The words to a Charles Wesley song came to mind:
Hear Him, ye deaf; His praise, ye dumb,Your loosened tongues employ;Ye blind, behold your Savior come,And leap, ye lame, for joy.
- Charles Wesley, from "O For A Thousand Tongues"
The idea of having my tongue loosed - particularly now - is surprising, because it also drives me to a passage in the New Testament Book of Acts. In chapter 18:9-10, the Lord tells Paul
- Do not be afraid
- Speak and do not keep silent
- I am with you.
- I will keep you from harm.
- I have many here who need to hear what you have to say.
Over 365 times in Scripture we hear "Don't be afraid" from the Lord. Here, He is telling Paul (and us) not to be to talk to people about Him and that He is with Paul (and us!).
I must have read that passage hundreds of times and heard or spoke it hundreds more. But in the last few weeks, these verses have carried an imperative for me that I never noticed, that I never felt before. There is now a vitality and confidence that accompanies the living Word. There is a renewed and empowered Anointing and Presence that is now at work within for His own purposes. What a blessing!
May God indeed have His way and quicken you as well for His own sake.
