WONDERS THROUGH WORSHIP

“Declare His Glory among the nations, His WONDERS among all peoples” – Psalm 96:3

Another essential practice for flowing in the supernatural is to offer God WORSHIP, thanksgiving and praises: “But You are holy, Who inhabit the praises of Israel” (Psa.22:3). The word “praises” in Psalm 22:3 is translated from the Hebrew word tehillah, which means “praise,” “a hymn,” or “song of praise.” It infers a joyful song that acclaims God’s powerful deeds. The word “inhabit,” which is translated from the Hebrew word yashab, means “to dwell,” “to remain,” or “to sit.” God wants more than just to pay us visits. He longs to stay, be comfortable, and govern His people who rejoice in His victories. God’s Presence manifests in the atmosphere of thanksgiving, praise, and worship. These are the instruments to ensure that God’s throne manifests among us.

In Thanksgiving, we recognise God’s goodness: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name” (Psa.100:4). We must always give thanks in everything, and our petitions must always be accompanied by thanksgiving (Eph.5:20; Phil.4:6; 1The.5:18). An attitude of gratitude and melodies of thanksgiving are the keys to releasing God’s supernatural power into play. These are authentic expressions of our heartfelt love for Him.

In Praise, we recognise God’s greatness and amazing works. Praise is the declaration and proclamation of His powerful deeds, articulated with excitement through applause, music, shouts, and dance. To praise is to exalt God in an exciting, exuberant, and extravagant celebration that could even border on the ridiculous, as David exemplified (2Sam.6:14-16; 20-23). Biblically speaking, praise is a celebration that breaks all barriers, empowered to penetrate even hostile environments. The distinction between Praise and Worship transcends “rhythm” – that praise is up-tempo and worship has a slower beat. Much more than that, Praise recognises God’s powerful works, while worship acknowledges the Person of God, offering Him humble reverence for who He is!

In Worship, we recognise God’s majesty, sovereignty, and glory. We will always worship to the extent of the revelation we have of God. The Hebrew word for “worship” in the Old Testament is shachah, which means “to prostrate oneself in homage to God” or “to bow down.” One of the Greek words for “worship” in the New Testament – proskuneo – means “to prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore).” Hence, to worship is to bow down in respect and reverence and kiss the hands and feet of a superior. It is the ultimate expression of submission and honour, and it may include humbly begging that superior to do somethings on one’s behalf. It is comparable to a dog licking the master’s hand as a demonstration of its affection and dependence: “Then she came and worshipped Him, saying, “Lord, help me!” (Mt.15:25). When we focus on Jesus, he will be enthroned over and above our needs!

Worship of God should be a humble, respectful attitude and reverence toward Him, expressed outwardly by our physical posture and through acts of sacrificial service. Worship is not a chance encounter, but an intentional and intimate communion with God, much like that between a husband and wife. Worship is therefore an intimacy that produces life! Any worship that fails to produce life is dead. Soulish ‘worship’ produces mere emotions but do not touch the spirit. Worship that produces wonders will not centre on earthly needs. Worship in Spirit and in Truth reveals God’s Power and Glory rather than satisfy fleshly desires. Worship that is based on carnal motives and selfish human attitudes is idolatory, impotent, lacks revelation knowledge, and is unable to produce miracles.

True Praise and Worship release the atmosphere of Glory! When we enjoy seasons of intimacy with God, His plans will be birthed. Praise and Worship produce the breath of God in our midst – and His breath gives life. They help create a heavenly atmosphere for miracles, healings, and wonders to take place, and an ambience in which we are able to see the manifestations of the words we speak in faith. True worshippers build a dwelling place that God can inhabit, wherein He transforms lives, works wonders, heals the sick, creates miracles, and glorifies His name!