Worship Word 6: G1479

Our sixth word for worship is Greek word "ethelothrēskia" using Strong's Number G14979.

It is a noun that is used to mean as voluntary, yet arbitrary worship. This refers to misdirected worship that misses the mark, because it is based on what the worshipper wants to do instead of what God prefers.  

Colossians 2:23 is the only instance of this type of "worship" in the New Testament, and in the NIV, is translated as "self-imposed worship". 

So this worship word is associated with worshipping according to our preferences instead of in a way that glorifies God. 

Ouch. Is there any conviction in your heart over this? In churches today, we are often guilty in worshiping how WE prefer, based on our culture, denomination, and other personal preferences. Instead of searching for how God wants to be worshiped, we are overlaying OUR preferences over His and doing what we are most satisfied with. 

In a human relationship, this is the equilivent to taking your partner out to YOUR favorite restaurant to celebrate THEIR birthday.

Challenge of the Week: Spend time with the Spirit and ask how God wants to be worshiped. Study the Bible for insights into how God describes His ideal worship and worship that offends Him.

Worship Word 5: G1391

Our fifth word for worship is Greek word "doxa" using Strong's Number G1391.

It is a noun that is used to mean as glory, glorious, honor, praise, dignity, and worship. 

Overall, this word refers to someone's opinion, judgment, or view. Specifically, a good view of someone which results in praise, honor, and glory. It also refers to godly majesty and perfection of God and Christ. 

Luke 14:10 is the specific use of the "worship" form of this noun in KJV. In the NIV, it refers to a person being honored when they choose the lowest place, but are elevated to a higher place by the host. 

So this worship word is associated with God's glory and the resulting praise and honor due to Him.

In churches today, we spend a lot of time talking about praising God and worshiping Him, but it would be beneficial to actually spend the time on the action itself instead of merely talking about it. 

Challenge of the Week: Focus on God's majesty and perfection. Set aside time to specifically praise Him, honor Him, and give Him the glory.