How can we prioritize worship in our lives despite modern-day fears or pressures? Setting the Scene “They set up the altar on its foundation, and, despite their fear of the peoples around them, they offered burnt offerings on it to the LORD—both the morning and evening sacrifices.” (Ezra 3:3) Key Truths in the Verse • The altar went up first—even before walls or roofs. • Fear was real, yet worship was immediate. • Regular rhythm: “morning and evening sacrifices.” Why Worship First? • Worship re-centers identity—God’s people before God’s throne. • The altar signaled, “The LORD reigns here,” pushing back surrounding intimidation. • Sacrifice acknowledged sin and sought fellowship; neglect would have cut them off from grace they needed most under pressure. Principles for Facing Fear with Worship 1. Start where you stand. – Like Israel, plant your “altar” right in the rubble of unfinished life. 2. Make worship non-negotiable. – Daniel prayed three times a day “just as he had always done” (Daniel 6:10). 3. Choose obedience over optics. – Peter and John: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:19-20). 4. Let worship drive out worry. – “Do not be anxious…in everything, by prayer and petition…present your requests” (Philippians 4:6-7). Building a Modern Altar • Daily Scripture reading—offer your first minutes. • Spoken or sung praise—morning and evening playlists. • Congregational commitment—“do not forsake meeting together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Generous giving—Romans 12:1 calls us to present our bodies; finances follow. • Service as worship—look for someone to bless each day. Anchoring Verses • Psalm 34:1 – “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.” • Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” • 1 Peter 3:14-15 – “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their intimidation…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts.” Living It Out Prioritize worship by planting deliberate, recurring moments with God before anything else. Fears shrink when the altar stands firm. |
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