How can we apply the concept of divine approval in our daily worship? Divine Approval Displayed: Fire and Glory “When Solomon finished praying, fire descended from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple.” (2 Chronicles 7:1) Why Solomon’s Moment Matters for Us • Fire on the altar was God’s unmistakable “yes” to what had just been offered. • Glory filling the temple signaled fellowship, nearness, and acceptance. • Under the new covenant we seek the same “yes,” not by waiting for literal flames, but by living Spirit-filled, Scripture-shaped lives (Romans 8:9; John 14:23). Translating Temple Moments into Daily Worship Offer what God delights in • Present your bodies as “a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). • Bring “the sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). • Come with contrite hearts, for “a broken and contrite heart … You will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). Cultivate a readied heart • Confess and forsake hidden sins; clean hands and pure hearts still open the way (Psalm 24:3-4; 1 John 1:9). • Approach with reverence, remembering “our God is a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:28-29). Pursue Spirit-filled worship • At Pentecost, tongues “like fire” rested on worshipers (Acts 2:3-4), echoing 2 Chronicles 7:1. • Keep on being filled with the Spirit, “speaking … psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:18-20). Walk in ongoing obedience • “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). • “Whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments” (1 John 3:22). Gather expectantly • The Lord still fills the house where “two or three are gathered in My name” (Matthew 18:20). • Stir one another to love and good works, “not neglecting to meet together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Measure fruit, not feeling • Divine approval shows itself in transformed character—the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). • Edification, order, and love reveal a worship service God endorses (1 Corinthians 14:26, 40; John 13:35). Putting It All Together • Start each day by consecrating your body, plans, and affections to Him. • Keep short accounts with God through continual confession and thanksgiving. • Invite the Spirit to ignite Scripture-guided praise, alone and with others. • Leave every worship moment ready to obey the next step He shows. • Expect His presence to accompany the humblest offering given in faith, for “whoever sacrifices a thank offering honors Me” (Psalm 50:23). |
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