Today’s Reading, Judges 1-2
Focal Scripture: Judges 2:11 “The Israelites did what was evil in the Lord’s sight. They worshiped the Baals”
When the Lord looks at our worship what does he think? I ask this question from a personal perspective and corporately. I have been thinking lately would the Lord would view any of my worship as evil. Not based on my standard or the worlds, but on his perfect standard. I can tell you that I have made other things gods in my life and allowed them to become the object of my worship. I have done this even while being together with other believers. I have went to church, sung the songs, listened to the sermon but had a heart that was focused on something else rather than the Lord.
In today’s reading we see this constant phrase about the Israelites, “They did what was evil in the Lord’s sight. They worshipped the Baals.” This means the people were focused on worship that made much of others gods. They violated the command to have no other gods before them. These professing believers were pulled away but a fake god. This evil act brought judgement amongst the people.
Before we go any further I need to make it clear that I am not attempting to make you feel bad. However, I am attempting to put this front and center in your life. I know from my observations of churches and people, that true and undefiled worship is rare. Most worship that I observe is a performance and not from the heart. Musicians are looking for the next big break, preachers want to be popular. The people in attendance want to be entertained.
I know I sound very critical about the current state of worship and to be honest, that is my intention. Why? Because I truly believe the Lord is unhappy with what we bring to him as individuals and as churches. This includes me and my life as well. I am not throwing stones at everyone else thinking I have this perfected because I am guilty of having other gods at times. The Lord has declared my worship as evil. The Lord has given me judgement, because I have not made him my first priority.
The challenge I have for everyone today is to have a heart that worships the Lord. Be a person that gives it everything you have, all day, everyday. This does not mean an emotional response. It also doesn’t mean worship has to look like everybody else’s worship. What it does mean, is that your heart is not captivated by anything other than the Lord. It sounds simple but the battle for authentic worship starts in our hearts. If our jobs, spouses, children, goals, and even health are more important than the Lord, we have become idol worshippers.
Today, make it a priority to love God more than you love anything or anybody else. Let our lives be a pleasing aroma to him as we enter his presence.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Judges 3-5
