What practical steps can we take to offer voluntary worship in our lives? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 46:12 describes “When the prince provides a freewill offering to the LORD…”. In the vision, the east gate opens only for this voluntary act and then closes again. The picture is rich with lessons for our own everyday worship. Key Observations from the Verse • Voluntary, not compelled – a “freewill offering.” • Personal initiative – “the prince” acts first. • Familiar pattern – offered “as on the Sabbath,” showing consistency. • Focused window – the gate opens, worship happens, then it shuts, marking a clear moment set apart. Practical Steps to Cultivate Voluntary Worship 1. Open the “gate” of your day. • Begin mornings with spontaneous praise before other voices crowd in. 2. Imitate Sabbath rhythms. • Build regular, restful pauses (weekly or daily) when work stops and worship starts. 3. Offer varied sacrifices. • Praise with your lips (Hebrews 13:15, “let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise”). • Share resources generously (2 Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver”). • Serve others in love (Romans 12:1, “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice”). 4. Worship freely, not grudgingly. • Psalm 110:3, “Your people will volunteer freely…” • Psalm 54:6, “Freely I will sacrifice to You; I will praise Your name, O LORD.” 5. Close the gate with obedience. • After the moment of worship, step back into life resolved to honor God in actions that follow. Daily Application Ideas • Sing a hymn or worship song during your commute. • Keep a giving envelope or digital fund ready for Spirit-prompted generosity. • Schedule a weekly “Sabbath hour” to read Scripture and journal thanks. • Volunteer in church or community projects that align with your gifts. • End each day recounting one act of God’s faithfulness, sealing the “gate” with gratitude. Closing Encouragement Voluntary worship doesn’t wait for Sunday or a command; it springs from a heart eager to meet the Lord. Open your gate often, offer what you have with joy, and let every deliberate moment become a fragrant sacrifice that pleases Him. |
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