What is real worship? What does this look like? If you were to ask 10 different people, you would likely get 10 different answers of varying degrees. Does worship only happen in church, with musical accompaniment? Is it a specific list of rituals you do exactly right? Let’s examine a specific incident from the life of Abraham that will shed light on what it means to live a life of worship.

In Genesis 22, we read that God gives Abraham the gruesome task of offering his only son (his miracle child) as a sacrifice to the Lord. This was a difficult request. Abraham is over 100 at this point. God miraculously provided Isaac, yet now requires Abraham to kill him. Abraham’s response is instant, selfless, unquestioning obedience. He, Isaac and a few servants start early in the morning for Mount Moriah, a 50 or so mile journey.

When they approach the appointed place, Abraham informs his servants that he and the boy will go up to worship, then come back. He had the faith to understand that God was in control. Abraham knew what was at stake, yet trusted and obeyed without trying to figure out an alternative plan. He had unwavering faith and commitment to follow through with God’s instructions. I’m sure Isaac never forgot this lesson in obedience. His father led him to the mountain, built an altar, bound his hands, and placed him on the altar just like an animal sacrifice.

At the last possible moment (the knife was in the air), God intervenes and provides an alternative sacrifice. “Now I know that you fear God – “ Abraham passed the test, he held nothing back and demonstrated his fear of God. Fear of God can be described as seeing God as sovereign, trusting Him completely, and obeying Him without question. This is exactly what Abraham demonstrated.

A true worshiper is someone who demonstrates Abraham’s fear of God, someone who holds nothing back from God, someone who trusts God will provide, even when they can’t figure out how. A true worshiper lives a life of obedience to God’s will, no matter what – in faith trusting that He is in control.

To live a life of worship, obey God’s Word and surrender completely to Him. Wait on Him to provide, as Abraham did, even if personal sacrifice is called for. Worship is more than singing, more that Sunday morning. It involves sacrifice, laying aside personal plans and pride. In every area of life there is an opportunity to worship: school, job, family, etc… set your mind to do all to God’s glory.

Set an example to those around you as Abraham did with his son and servants. Seek to follow the example of Abraham – one of faithful, willing, unquestionable obedience to the Heavenly Father. Seek to hear God welcome you to Heaven with the words “well done, good and faithful servant.”

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