Intentional Worship

Bible Bites

Scott Beyer
04/19/23 - Bulletin

“What is the outcome then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the mind also; I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the mind also.” (1 Corinthians 14:15)

It is so easy to pray or sing to God and let your mind wander. It has happened to all of us at one time or another. Paul reminds us that true worship engages the spirit and the mind. It is both an intellectual exercise and an emotional one. In order to do it right, we must attempt to be present – and you must battle to remain present when praying to God or singing to Him.

Whether it be finding a quiet place to pray without distractions, making sure to focus on the meaning of the words you are singing, making a list of what you are going to pray about, or looking for a connection between the songs you are singing and what is going on in your life – whatever it takes, understand that it is worth it. Engaged worship is real worship. It is a fulfillment of the first and greatest commandment – to love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

Make your worship intentional. Make it focused. Make it real.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 14:13-22

Questions to ask:

How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision