The Heart of Worship

Sometimes in life we let things get in the way and we lose sight of the basic meaning of things like for instance, in my life, why worship was created and what it is intended for and that is to honor, worship, and thank God for ALL he does. Leading worship this past Sunday allowed me to make a connection that was absolutely incredible. For the first time in awhile I was able to connect with God and physically feel his presence. it was a nice reality check and and a simple reminder that I am not in this alone.

With all the obstacles I have encountered over the past few months it became harder and harder to feel unconditional love from God when my vision was blurred by all the bad going on around me. My semester started off with my family dealing with the loss of my cousin who had committed suicide. Along with that came an overwhelming and reoccurring obstacle of just “normal” family drama. I also found out what it meant to have literally NO money. I struggled to pay my accompanist, for groceries, utility bills, etc. I encountered hurt and disappointment from many people I would have considered “close friends”. HOWEVER, this semester also proved to be so rewarding as well. To start off, I moved into a God-centered house with such wonderful and loving girls who have been there for me every step of the way. I’ve found a mentor whom I look up to with my life. I had the chance to encourage and be encouraged by a sweet and beautiful 1:12 partner who has become so much more than that in my life. She has become a sister and I am so blessed to have her in my life. I’ve made some new friends and grown close to a few who have been there for me every step this semester. Lastly, I made the DEAN’S LIST and will OFFICIALLY be an intern for h2o church this coming spring semester!

So, while this has been possibly the lowest or darkest I’ve felt in my walk with Christ, it has proved that God has a reason for everything and that his timing is NEVER wrong. Through all the obstacles I was able to learn something from overcoming all of them. I’ve learned to trust people in my life, to love no matter what you feel for a person, family is family and will love you even when it doesn’t feel like they do, money isn’t all you need to survive or get by in this world, and lastly and probably the most important thing I have learned from all these obstacles is to stay as close as you can to God and NEVER let go. While I felt like God was a million miles away during all of those times of distress, once the fog cleared up I realized he was right there all along guiding me along the way. I am so thankful for the trials I have encountered this semester because of what I have learned and the person I am because of them. I am ready to take on the new year because I finally feel free of all the stress and can breathe knowing that God has my back.

I encourage you, whoever you may be, whether I know you personally, or you somehow stumbled upon this blog, to take this year to set goals in your walk with Christ. Pray often. Learn to communicate with God on a daily basis, Adoring Him, confessing your sins, thanking Him for everything He has done, and of course praying for the needs of this world and those in your life. Be in the Word, everyday. I cannot express how much this used to be a struggle of mine, but now that I have seen the impact of daily devotion time with God I will always encourage others to do the same because the outcome is beyond rewarding. Always strive to bring honor and glory to God. Whether that means physically hitting up the gym and eating healthier or striving to develop a more Christ-centered life and Godly character traits. The last thing I will say is LOVE. One of the biggest struggles of my life was accepting the fact that God’s love was truly unconditional. Once I did I was able to shine that love for others to see. You could be the only “God” someone may ever encounter. Use your testimony because no one can argue what God has done to change your life. Shine your light so the world can see Christ shine brightly.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)