What is Worship?
- Illuminate the Truth
- Oct 17
- 4 min read
By Ashton McGraw & Chris Jaeger In The Light of Truth – A Podcast by Illuminate the Truth.
Welcome to In The Light of Truth, a podcast where biblical truth meets real life. Whether you’re new to the Bible or have studied it for years, this is a space for honest conversations about the struggles, joys, and peace we experience as followers of Christ. Walking with God isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let’s grow together in the light of truth.
“You yourselves, like living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
— 1 Peter 2:5
Worship. It’s a word we hear often in church, but what does it really mean to worship God? Is it just singing on Sundays, or is it something deeper—something that reaches into every part of our lives?
In this week’s episode of In the Light of Truth, we explore what true worship looks like according to Scripture and how it shapes our daily walk with Christ.
Created to Worship
When we look through Scripture, we find countless verses that instruct us to worship the Lord. 1 Peter 2:5 reminds us that we are being built into a spiritual house, and 1 Corinthians 3:16 tells us that we are God’s temple and His Spirit dwells in us.
When we think about a temple—what happens there? Worship.That means worship isn’t just something we do; it’s who we are as believers.
As GotQuestions.org beautifully puts it:
“There are endless reasons to worship God, but at the heart of the matter lies this truth: Worshiping God is the supreme purpose for which humans were created. We are instruments of exaltation.”
We were created to glorify Him in everything we do. Our entire being—our words, actions, thoughts, and even our work—is meant to honor the Lord.
Worship Is More Than Music
Modern Christianity often limits worship to music or singing during a Sunday service. While those are powerful expressions, worship extends far beyond that—it’s our obedience to God in everyday life.
Whether we’re working, eating, parenting, or serving others, Scripture calls us to do everything for His glory. “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
Even in the mundane—changing diapers, cleaning floors, or working long hours—our obedience and attitude can glorify Him. Every act of service becomes an offering of worship when done for the Lord.
Worship Changes the Atmosphere
Worship shifts our focus from ourselves to God’s greatness. It strengthens us, lifts our hearts, and reminds us of His goodness, especially in times of suffering.
Psalm 22 shows David crying out in distress, yet declaring praise in the midst of it:
“Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” — Psalm 22:3
When we worship—even through tears—it changes everything. It reminds us of who God is, what He’s done, and what He’s promised. Worship lifts our perspective from our circumstances to our Creator.
Worship in Suffering
Some of the most powerful worship happens in our hardest moments.Chris shared a story of someone who lost a child but declared, “We will worship Him for who He is.” That kind of faith is powerful—it’s not about what God gives us, but who He is.
Ashton shared how worship carried her through the loss of her grandfather. Reading Scripture and playing worship music during those final days brought peace and comfort that only God can give.
“Even now, when I hear those songs, I don’t feel sorrow—I feel the closeness of the Lord. Worship in suffering reminds us that death isn’t the end. It reminds us that we need a Savior—and He is worthy of our praise.”
Worship teaches us that we can praise Him not only after the breakthrough but through the storm.
Worship in Everyday Life
Worshiping God doesn’t require perfection. He calls us to come as we are—with open hearts and humble spirits. True worship flows from a heart posture of reverence, love, and surrender.
For Ashton and her husband, worship has become a daily rhythm. After dinner, they take time to pray, read Scripture, and sing hymns together.
“It’s been so sweet,” she says. “Some of the hymns are new to us, but it’s not about sounding good—it’s about setting aside time to glorify Him.”
Worship isn’t confined to a building or a Sunday morning. It’s something we carry into every day of the week—a Monday morning faith.
Why Worship Matters
Worship reminds us that everything we do matters. It aligns our hearts with God’s will and renews our strength. It changes the atmosphere of our homes and the posture of our hearts.
When we lift our hands, sing, serve, or simply thank Him—we are participating in what we were created for.
Worship is not about us. It’s about Him.
Final Encouragement
If you’ve found yourself distracted, weary, or disconnected, take time this week to carve out a moment of worship. Sing a song, pray out loud, read a Psalm, or simply thank Him for who He is.
He inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3), and when we worship, heaven meets earth.So, let everything you do be an offering of praise.
💡 How do you and your family worship the Lord throughout the week?We’d love to hear from you in the comments or messages! Let’s encourage one another to glorify God in every season.
🎧 Listen to Episode 16: "What is Worship?"
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Well done! Some of your comments made me think of the book series "Every Moment Holy" Our family has been intentional about following the scripture that the fear (reverence) of God is the beginning of wisdom. So looking for God in all situations and being grateful for His presence, power, and wisdom keeps us focused on worshipping HIM!