+DEV+ Larger than Life

Date: October 16, 2011 9:03 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Larger than Life

Larger than Life

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field." (MATTHEW 13:44)
Scripture Focus: Matthew 13, Hebrews 12:1-2

Worship is the native language of the kingdom of heaven. And if the kingdom is as Jesus describes it here in these parables - that is, something so valuable for which we will joyfully lose all other things - then worship ought to be characterized by profound joy. Yet, I think if we're honest, our worship often is not saturated with the "solid joys and lasting treasures" which none but Zion's children know. At times, worship for me can become merely cerebral, a transfer of information rather than a joyful encounter with the living God. Other times, what I mistake as true joy in worship escapes my heart quickly after the benediction. The weight of everyday life descends yet again.

How can we become more joyful worshipers? What we need is a re-evaluation of our lives. If we value the kingdom of heaven above all else, then we will rejoice to speak its native language. The kingdom must be larger than everyday life. When you're known by Jesus, the Man who "sold all he had" and bought you, your joy is larger than life.

Insight: An Unhealthy Preoccupation With Life's Concerns Will Dampen Worship. Remember, You Are "Seated With Christ In Heaven." Let That Truth Saturate Your Worship.