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.
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