How can we encourage others to join in worship as Psalm 98:5 describes? Meeting the Verse “Make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing.” (Psalm 98:5) Essence of the Call • The psalmist urges more than private devotion; the language is corporate and celebratory. • “Make music” implies skillful, intentional effort, not casual background noise (cf. Psalm 33:3). • “To the LORD” keeps the focus vertical; worship is offered for His glory, not our performance. Why Invite Others? • God is worthy of every voice (Psalm 96:7–8). • Shared praise deepens unity (Romans 15:5–6). • Corporate worship is a witness to unbelievers (1 Peter 2:9). Practical Ways to Invite Others to Worship • Share your own enthusiasm: “Taste and see that the LORD is good” (Psalm 34:8). Joy is contagious. • Extend personal invitations—texts, calls, or face-to-face—rather than relying only on announcements. • Offer rides or meet beforehand; remove practical barriers that keep people home. • Highlight the content of worship: Scripture reading, Christ-centered songs, fellowship—more than “come hear the band.” • Use social media to post verses, song snippets, or testimonies from worship gatherings. • Encourage participation, not spectating: hand out lyric sheets, explain unfamiliar songs, model clapping or lifting hands (Psalm 134:2). • Celebrate diverse musical gifts: choirs, soloists, instrumentalists, even simple percussion; everyone has a part (1 Chronicles 15:16). • Follow up: ask newcomers how the service impacted them; pray with them during the week. Model Joyful Praise • Let gratitude overflow publicly (Psalm 100:1-2). • Speak of specific answers to prayer, magnifying God’s faithfulness (Psalm 40:9-10). • Sing wholeheartedly, even if off-key; sincerity outweighs vocal perfection (Ephesians 5:19). Use Music as a Bridge • Teach the biblical meaning behind songs—people engage more when they understand the lyrics (Colossians 3:16). • Blend familiar hymns with new worship music to honor multiple generations (Psalm 145:4). • Invite musicians to share brief testimonies about why they chose a song. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere • Greet warmly; learn names (Romans 16:16). • Maintain accessible volume and clear lyrics on screen or in print. • Provide environments for families—cry rooms, children’s worship guides—to include all ages (Deuteronomy 31:12-13). Keep the Gospel Central • Worship springs from redemption; remind listeners of Christ’s finished work (Revelation 5:9-10). • Link every call to worship with the cross and resurrection, giving unbelievers a reason to sing. Speak of God’s Mighty Acts • Share Scripture that recounts His deeds (Psalm 105:1-2). • Encourage testimonies on answered prayer, healing, provision—real-time evidence of His power. Faithful Follow-Through • Continue discipling those who respond; worship leads into deeper obedience (James 1:22). • Equip new believers to invite others, multiplying the chorus until, as Psalm 98 portrays, “all the earth” resounds with praise. |
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