Category Archives: Worship

Stewardship, Worship

Come Ready: Worship Without Hesitation

Beloved, the voice of the Lord Almighty calls to you today. The King of Kings is waiting, arms open wide, calling you by name. Cast off every excuse, distraction, and weight that keeps you from Him. The time is now. The moment is here. There will never be a better opportunity than this to respond to His voice and draw near. Worship without hesitation, and you will find peace.

Why do you hesitate? What excuse could stand before the One who formed you in your mother’s womb, who gave you life and breath? The Scriptures declare, “Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage], not as the unwise but as wise, making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity]” (Ephesians 5:15–16, AMP). To delay is to waste the precious moments entrusted to you by God. Embrace worship without hesitation.

Deep in your heart, you already know the truth. No busyness, fear, or worldly pursuit is worth missing the presence of God. He beckons you to lay it all down and approach Him with a heart eager to worship. His invitation is clear: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened, and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]” (Matthew 11:28, AMP). This is your call to worship without hesitation.

Stewarding Time: Honoring God with Readiness

Every second of our lives is a gift, and every opportunity to gather in worship is a divine appointment with the living God. Arriving on time to worship is not merely polite but an act of reverence. It proclaims to God and the world that He is your priority, and you value the sacred time spent in His house.

The psalmist proclaims, “Enter His gates with a song of thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name” (Psalm 100:4, AMP). Showing up distracted, rushed, or unprepared diminishes your worship and denies God the honor He is due. Worship is a sacred offering that requires preparation. This preparation is essential to worship without hesitation.

How do you prepare to meet with God?

Readiness begins the night before. Set aside distractions, seek Him in prayer, and ask for a heart cleansed of anything that hinders true worship. “Be still and know (recognize, understand) that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, AMP). Come expectantly, ready to hear His voice and lift praises worthy of the King of Kings.

A Call to Surrender: No More Excuses

Beloved, do not allow the cares of this world to stifle God’s voice. Lay down every excuse. Whether it’s busyness, fear, or comfort, none compares to His presence’s joy. Jesus Himself commands: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also” (Matthew 6:33, AMP). Nothing that keeps you from Him is worth clinging to. Worship without hesitation is key.

Are you weary? He says, “Come.”
Lay down your burdens and find rest in His presence.

Are you thirsty? He says, “Come.”
Drink deeply from the well of His Spirit and be satisfied.

Are you broken? He says, “Come.”
Bring your wounds to the One who heals and restores.

Now is the time. Today is the day. Lay aside every excuse and run to Him. The Lord waits with open arms, longing to draw you into deeper intimacy with Him. “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18, AMP). Do not delay. Do not linger. Answer His call with urgency and worship without hesitation.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We hear Your voice and respond to Your call. We lay down our excuses, distractions, and pride. Forgive us for placing anything above You. Teach us to honor You with our time, to come into Your presence with reverence and joy, and to worship You with hearts fully surrendered. Awaken within us a hunger to seek You first, to worship without hesitation, and to honor You in all that we do. Draw us ever closer, Lord, and let our lives reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Worship

What Does True Worship Look Like? Surrendering to God in Spirit and Truth

Worship isn’t just about singing songs or showing up on time to church. It’s not a checklist of rituals or a performance to impress others. True worship is a heartfelt connection with God—a surrender to His will and an intentional pursuit of His presence. Whether you’re a worship leader or a member of the congregation, worship is about engaging with the Lord fully, loving Him with all your heart, and obeying His Spirit.

If you’re a worship leader, you’re not just picking songs; you’re leading people on a spiritual journey. Your role is to guide others into the presence of God, not just through music but through an encounter with the living God. The truth is, worship leadership requires total surrender to God’s direction. It’s about listening for His voice and obeying His leading—even if it means abandoning the carefully prepared song list and following where the Spirit moves.

The Heart of Worship Leadership: Following God’s Lead

Years ago, a worship leader shared a lesson that has stood the test of time. He would prepare a setlist of six to eight songs for each service. But more often than not, he wouldn’t even get past the first song before God redirected the worship. This is what true worship leadership looks like: yielding to God’s will instead of clinging to our own plans.

Scripture makes it clear that trusting in God’s direction is essential. Proverbs 3:5-6 (AMP) reminds us: “Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth.” As a worship leader, your “path” may be your setlist, but God may have other plans. Are you willing to follow Him?

When we surrender, God does incredible things. Worship becomes more than a list of songs; it becomes a dynamic and transformational experience that draws people into His presence.

Worship as a Spiritual Journey

Worship is meant to take us into the Holy of Holies, where we encounter the living God. Hebrews 10:19-22 (AMP) reminds us that, through Jesus, we have direct access to God’s presence:

“Let us approach [God] with a true and sincere heart in unqualified assurance of faith.”

As a worship leader, your calling is to lead others into this sacred space. This requires more than talent or preparation—it requires a heart that is fully engaged with God. You cannot lead others into God’s presence unless you dwell there yourself.

David’s example in 2 Samuel 6:14 shows us what this looks like. He danced before the Lord with all his might, completely unashamed and fully engaged in worship. David’s worship wasn’t about perfection or ritual; it was about pouring his whole heart out before God. As a worship leader, this is your example: worshiping with passion, authenticity, and complete surrender.

The Power of Surrendered Worship

True worship requires humility. Romans 12:1 (AMP) calls us to “present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship.” Whether you’re leading worship or participating, God asks for the same thing: a heart that is fully surrendered to Him.

When we let go of our plans and trust God, He moves powerfully. Worship becomes less about us and more about Him. It becomes a declaration of His goodness, faithfulness, and power. It’s a moment where heaven touches earth, and the people of God encounter His presence.

Practical Tips for Worship Leaders

If You’re a Worship Leader, Here’s How You Can Engage in True, Spirit-Led Worship:

1. Pray over your preparation.

Before selecting a single song, seek God’s guidance. Ask Him what He wants to say and do through the worship. Prayer isn’t just preparation—it’s connection. Psalm 25:4-5 reminds us, “Let me know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation.” Approach your planning with a listening heart.

2. Remain flexible to the Holy Spirit.

A setlist is a helpful tool, but it’s not the destination. Be willing to abandon it entirely if the Holy Spirit takes the worship in a different direction. Proverbs 16:9 teaches us, “A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], but the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.” Stay sensitive, trusting that God knows exactly what the congregation needs in that moment.

3. Engage fully with God personally.

Worship leaders are not performers; they’re worshipers first. Before stepping onto the stage, spend time alone with God, soaking in His presence. Psalm 27:4 declares, “One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life.” Let your private worship fuel your public leadership.

4. Be bold and vulnerable.

Worship with authenticity and passion. Show the congregation what it looks like to worship God with your whole heart, lifting hands, declaring truths, and pouring yourself out before Him. 2 Samuel 6:14 tells of King David dancing before the Lord with all his might. Don’t hold back—your vulnerability inspires others to go deeper in their worship.

5. Declare God’s truths over the congregation.

Worship isn’t just singing; it’s a time to proclaim God’s promises and character. Use spontaneous moments to speak life over the people, declaring truths like, “The Lord is faithful to His promises” (Psalm 145:13). Let your words align with His Word, encouraging faith and stirring hearts toward Him.

6. Pour yourself out as an offering.

Worship leading is not about conserving energy or protecting your image—it’s about giving everything you have to glorify God. Romans 12:1 calls us to “present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational act of worship.” Leave nothing behind; pour yourself out completely.

7. Stay focused on God.

It’s easy to get caught up in the technical aspects of worship—transitions, timing, or the congregation’s response. But worship isn’t about you, the music, or even the people; it’s about Him. John 3:30 reminds us, “He must increase [in prominence], but I must decrease.” Fix your eyes on Jesus and invite others to do the same.

8. Take the congregation on a spiritual journey.

Your role is to guide the people into the presence of God—not just through songs but through surrender. Worship is a journey into the Holy of Holies (Hebrews 10:19-22). Lead them with intentionality, creating space for them to encounter God personally.

9. Be ready for the unexpected.

Sometimes God moves in ways you didn’t plan—a spontaneous prayer, lingering on a single song, or a moment of silence. Trust these moments and lean into them. Isaiah 55:8 reminds us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. Surrender your plans for His.

10. Model intimacy with God.

Worship leaders have the privilege of showing others what it looks like to pursue God passionately. Let your worship be genuine, not performance-driven. As Psalm 42:1 says, “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God.” Show the congregation what it means to long for Him.

Don’t Let Tools Dictate Your Worship

In today’s world, worship leaders often rely on various tools—projections, planning apps, click tracks, or in-ear monitors—to create a seamless worship experience. These tools can be helpful, but they must never dictate or limit your worship. If God is leading you in a direction that your tools don’t easily accommodate, follow Him anyway. Worship isn’t about perfection or technical execution; it’s about obedience and connection with the Lord.

IT tools and resources should support your worship, not control it. For example:

  • If the Spirit moves and the planned song isn’t resonating, don’t hesitate to switch mid-service—even if the slides aren’t ready.
  • If a spontaneous moment of prayer or prophetic declaration arises, don’t let the countdown timer (or that darn wall clock) stop you.
  • If the click track becomes a distraction, don’t be afraid to turn it off and trust your team’s instincts.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us, “Be still and know [recognize, understand] that I am God.” Worship is a divine encounter, not a production. It requires sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, not reliance on technology.

The tools we use are practical aids, but they must never take the place of listening to God. If you feel God leading you to linger on a song, pause in silence, or shift direction entirely, trust Him—even if the tools and systems can’t keep up. Worship is about responding to Him in spirit and truth (John 4:24), not sticking to a script.

Stay Spirit-led, not tool-led. When you prioritize obedience to God over the convenience of your tools, He will bless your faithfulness and move in ways that technology never could.

Conclusion: Surrender Your Worship to God

True worship is a journey of surrender, obedience, and intimacy with God. Whether you’re leading worship or participating in the congregation, the calling is the same: engage with the Lord fully, trust His direction, and pour your whole heart into worship. When you let go of your plans and follow His Spirit, worship becomes alive, transformational, and deeply meaningful.

Prayer

Father, we surrender our worship to You. Teach us to listen to Your voice, trust Your leading, and respond with obedience. For those who lead, give them sensitive hearts and bold faith to guide others into Your presence. Let every moment of worship be a reflection of our love and devotion to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Worship

The Glory Within Us

Beloved, the glory of God dwells not only within us but also in His house—His sanctuary. Scripture calls us to gather in His courts, arriving with thanksgiving and hearts prepared to worship. This is not a mere tradition but a holy privilege and vital act of obedience that honors God. “The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob [Israel]” (Psalm 87:2, AMP). God cherishes His house, where His people unite to glorify Him and experience His presence together.

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name” (Psalm 100:4, AMP). God’s house is a place of joy, transformation, and unity. It is where we encounter His presence and glorify His name together as His people. The psalmist rejoices, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’” (Psalm 122:1, AMP).

However, our worship should not be careless or hurried. “Guard your steps and focus on what you are doing as you go to the house of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:1, AMP). Punctuality and preparation show reverence, reflecting that God is worthy of our best, not what is left over. Arriving on time with a heart ready to praise is a declaration that He comes first in our lives.

The New Testament affirms the importance of gathering. “Let us not forsake our meeting together, as is the habit of some, but encourage one another” (Hebrews 10:25, AMP). Worship is not isolated; it is communal. Together, we strengthen one another and build His kingdom.

Jesus Himself modeled this for us. As a young boy, He said, “Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49, AMP). Throughout His ministry, He faithfully went to the synagogue, reminding us of the value of prioritizing worship in God’s house (Luke 4:16).

Beloved, let us echo the psalmist: “Better is one day in Your courts than a thousand [anywhere else]” (Psalm 84:10, AMP). Commit to arriving early, prepared, and with thanksgiving in your heart. In His presence, we find joy, peace, and transformation. God is waiting to meet with you in His house—don’t miss the blessing!

How Can We Arrive Ready to Worship?

Worship begins long before we enter the sanctuary. Arriving ready to worship requires a heart prepared to honor God and free from distractions. Here are some practical steps:

  1. Prepare your heart. Take time to pray before coming to church. Ask God to help you focus on Him and to cleanse your heart of anything that might hinder your worship (Psalm 139:23-24).
  2. Plan ahead. Set aside time to prepare physically and mentally so you can arrive on time and without rushing (Ecclesiastes 5:1).
  3. Come with expectation. Remember, you are meeting with the King of kings. Approach worship with anticipation of encountering His presence (Psalm 27:4).
  4. Reflect on His goodness. Think about God’s blessings and faithfulness throughout the week, and let that fuel your thanksgiving (Psalm 103:1-5).
  5. Eliminate distractions. Silence your phone, leave worries at the door, and focus your mind on God alone (Isaiah 26:3).

Questions to Ask Yourself:

  • Am I arriving at church with a heart prepared to meet God?
  • Am I making worship a priority in my life by planning to be punctual and engaged?
  • Do I come with gratitude, ready to praise God for who He is and what He has done?
  • Is there anything distracting me from fully focusing on God during worship?
  • How can I better prepare myself throughout the week to honor God in His house?

A Prayer of Preparation:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the privilege of worshiping You in Your house. Help me to prepare my heart to meet You with reverence and joy. Remove any distractions or burdens that keep me from focusing on You. Teach me to honor You with my time, my attitude, and my actions. Fill me with thanksgiving and anticipation as I come into Your presence. May my worship bring glory to Your name and draw me closer to You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Surely goodness and mercy and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell forever in the house and presence of the Lord” (Psalm 23:6, AMP). Let this be the posture of your heart as you enter the house of the Lord!

See Also

Worship

A New Song (David)

Beloved, let us look to the life of King David, a man after God’s own heart, to learn how to worship in spirit and truth. Inspired by his faith, David often sang a new song of praise to the Almighty. David’s life was marked by deep devotion, unshakable faith, and unrelenting praise for the Almighty. Whether he was in the shepherd’s field, standing before Goliath, reigning as king, or fleeing from his enemies, David lived a life of worship that centered on God’s glory—not his own.

A Heart of Humility in Worship

David’s worship always began with humility. As a shepherd boy, he marveled at the majesty of God in creation, writing, “When I see and consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have established, what is man that You are mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:3-4). David understood that worship is not about us—it’s about God.

This humility carried into his kingship. When the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem, David danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14). He didn’t care about the opinions of men; his focus was solely on God’s presence. David reminds us that worship requires laying down our pride and lifting high the name of the Lord.

Let us approach worship with this same humility, recognizing that we are dust, yet loved and chosen by the Almighty. As David wrote, “I will give thanks to You, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds” (Psalm 9:1). Worship begins when we recognize God’s greatness and our dependence on Him.

A Life of Thankfulness and Song

David’s life overflowed with thanksgiving, no matter the circumstances. When he was delivered from his enemies, he sang, “The Lord lives! Blessed be my rock, and exalted be my God, the rock of my salvation” (2 Samuel 22:47). Even in times of despair, David turned to God in song. He cried out in the wilderness, “I will sing of Your power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning” (Psalm 59:16).

David teaches us that gratitude is not dependent on our circumstances but rooted in God’s unchanging character. “Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things” (Psalm 98:1). Let us cultivate a heart of thankfulness, singing not for what we have, but for who God is—holy, just, and loving.

Worship as Healing and Restoration

David’s songs often reflected his brokenness, but they always pointed to God’s healing power. After his sin with Bathsheba, David cried out, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit” (Psalm 51:12). He acknowledged his sin and sought God’s forgiveness through worship.

Through David’s example, we see that worship is not reserved for perfect people. It is for the broken, the weary, and the repentant. God delights in a contrite heart and uses our worship to bring healing and restoration. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3). Let us, like David, come to God in honesty and allow Him to transform us through worship.

A Focus on God, Not Ourselves

David’s worship always pointed back to God’s glory. He declared, “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness” (Psalm 29:2). David knew that worship was not about his feelings or achievements; it was about magnifying the Lord.

When we worship, we are reminded that God is the center of all things. David’s life reminds us to take our eyes off ourselves and focus on the One who is worthy. As Isaiah calls out, “Sing for joy, O heavens! Rejoice, O earth! For the Lord has comforted His people” (Isaiah 49:13).

A New Song for the Lord

As we reflect on David’s example, we are invited to sing a new song to the Lord—not just with our lips, but with our lives. God desires to write His song on our hearts, a melody that echoes His goodness, faithfulness, and love. Let us, like David, say, “I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being” (Psalm 104:33).

Prayer: A New Song of Worship

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the example of Your servant David, whose life was a testimony of humility, thankfulness, and worship. Teach us to approach You with the same heart, laying down our pride and lifting up Your name.

Lord, write a new song on our hearts, one that declares Your glory and testifies to Your faithfulness. May we sing of Your goodness in the valleys and on the mountaintops, knowing that You are worthy of all praise. Heal our brokenness, restore our joy, and draw us closer to You through our worship.

Help us to worship in spirit and truth, keeping our focus on You and You alone. Let our lives be a song of praise, bringing glory to Your holy name.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

See Also

Prayers, Worship

Call to Prayer and Worship

Beloved, hear this call: the Lord knows the plans He has for you, plans to prosper you, not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). His thoughts toward you are vast and precious, more than you can count (Psalm 139:17). He is not far from you—He waits with open arms for you to turn to Him.

Come to God in Prayer

Do not delay, for now is the time to come to Him. The Lord has heard the cry of the broken-hearted and the afflicted. He heard the groaning of Israel in Egypt and delivered them by His mighty hand (Exodus 2:24). Even now, He hears your cries, your whispered prayers in the night, and the burdens you bear in silence. God promises to hear you when you call, and He will answer (Psalm 34:17). He will rescue you, for He is near to all who seek Him (Psalm 145:19).

Come to Him with your whole heart. Draw near in faith, knowing that He is ready to meet you with grace and mercy. The Lord has said, “Call to Me, and I will answer you” (Jeremiah 29:12). Behold the testimony of the prophets and saints: when Jonah cried from the depths of the sea, God heard him (Jonah 2:2). When Israel called out in distress, God delivered them time and again. His ear has never grown deaf, nor His arm short to save (Isaiah 59:1).

Let nothing hinder you, for God has promised, “Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear” (Isaiah 65:24). This is the God who formed the heavens and the earth, who knows your every thought. He sees you, and He desires to gather you under His wings to give you rest and peace.

You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. Come, lift your voice to the One who hears, and He will draw near to you. Come to Him in prayer, in faith, and in humility. God is faithful and just, ready to forgive, ready to heal, and ready to restore. Even now, He calls you. Will you answer?

Let Prayer Lead to Worship

As you come to God in prayer, let your heart overflow into worship. The same God who hears your cries invites you to celebrate His goodness. The psalmist calls out, “Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker” (Psalm 95:6). In the quiet place of prayer, where you encounter His presence, let your soul respond in joyful worship.

Prayer leads you into God’s courts, and worship draws you even closer. “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise” (Psalm 100:4). Let your prayers rise like incense before Him, and your praise like the sound of many waters. Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things (Psalm 98:1). Lift your hands, lift your voice, for He is worthy of all you can offer.

Worship with Dance and Joy

Let your worship be more than words. The Lord delights in the dance of His people, for in this place of praise and surrender, you will experience the fullness of joy. “Let them praise His name with dancing; let them sing praises to Him with tambourine and lyre” (Psalm 149:3). As David danced before the Lord with all his might, so too are you invited to worship with every fiber of your being (2 Samuel 6:14).

Prayer and worship are inseparable—two movements of the heart toward God. In prayer, you come to Him with your needs, and in worship, you acknowledge His greatness. Both are acts of surrender, both are responses to His goodness. As you cry out in prayer, let worship spring forth, for you stand before the King of kings, who hears you and calls you His own.

Join the Call to Prayer and Worship

So come, beloved. Pray, worship, and dance before the Lord. “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands” (Isaiah 55:12). Even creation joins in the song of praise. Will you not join in as well?

Seek Him while He may be found, for He is near to all who call upon Him in truth (Psalm 145:18). Lift your voice, lift your heart, and come before Him in prayer and worship. He is waiting. Will you answer?

See Also

Spirit and Truth, Worship

King of Kings+, Spirit and Truth

About a 14 minute read.

Worshiping in spirit and truth, as Jesus instructed in John 4:24, calls us to engage not only our hearts but also our minds in adoration of God. This means that our worship must be rooted in a deep understanding of God’s Word. When we sing songs like “King of Kings” by Hillsong, knowing the scriptures that underpin the lyrics enriches our worship experience. For instance, recognizing how Isaiah 9:2 speaks of hope and light, or how Philippians 2:6-8 highlights Christ’s humility, allows us to connect more profoundly with the truths we sing. By engaging our minds with these biblical foundations, we ensure that our worship is not merely an emotional expression but a thoughtful and reverent offering, aligning our spirits with the truth of God’s Word.

King of Kings – Hillsong Worship

Words and Music by Jason Ingram, Brooke Ligertwood & Scott Ligertwood
© 2019 Hillsong Music Publishing

Verse 1

  • In the darkness we were waiting / Without hope without light:
    Isaiah 9:2 (AMP) “The people who walk in [spiritual] darkness will see a great Light; Those who live in the dark land, The Light will shine on them.”
  • Till from heaven You came running / There was mercy in Your eyes:
    Titus 3:4–5 (AMP) “But when the goodness and kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we have done, but because of His own compassion and mercy, by the cleansing of the new birth (spiritual transformation, regeneration) and renewing by the Holy Spirit.”
  • To fulfill the law and prophets / To a virgin came the Word:
    Matthew 5:17 (AMP) “Do not think that I came to do away with or undo the Law of Moses or the [writings of the] Prophets; I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.”
    Luke 1:26–38 (AMP) (Announcement of Jesus’ birth to Mary).
  • From a throne of endless glory / To a cradle in the dirt:
    Philippians 2:6–8 (AMP) “who, although He existed in the form and unchanging essence of God [as One with Him, possessing the fullness of all the divine attributes—the entire nature of deity], did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped or asserted [as if He did not already possess it, or was afraid of losing it]; but emptied Himself [without renouncing or diminishing His deity, but only temporarily giving up the outward expression of divine equality and His rightful dignity] by assuming the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men [He became completely human but was without sin, being fully God and fully man]. After He was found in [terms of His] outward appearance as a man [for a divinely appointed time], He humbled Himself [still further] by becoming obedient [to the Father] to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

Chorus

  • Praise the Father / Praise the Son / Praise the Spirit three in one:
    Matthew 28:19 (AMP) “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
  • God of glory / Majesty:
    Psalm 29:1–2 (AMP) “Ascribe to the Lord, O sons of the mighty, Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; Worship the Lord in the beauty and majesty of His holiness [as the creator and source of holiness].”
  • Praise forever to the King of Kings:
    Revelation 19:16 (AMP) “And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name inscribed, ‘KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.’”

Verse 2

  • To reveal the kingdom coming / And to reconcile the lost:
    Colossians 1:20 (AMP) “and through [the intervention of] the Son to reconcile all things to Himself [making peace with believers through the blood of His cross]; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.”
  • To redeem the whole creation / You did not despise the cross:
    Hebrews 12:2 (AMP) “looking away from all that will distract us and focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].”
  • For even in Your suffering / You saw to the other side:
    Hebrews 12:2 (AMP) “looking away from all that will distract us and focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].”
  • Knowing this was our salvation / Jesus for our sake You died:
    1 Peter 3:18 (AMP) “For indeed Christ died for sins once for all, the Just and Righteous for the unjust and unrighteous [the Innocent for the guilty], so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit.”

Verse 3

  • And the morning that You rose / All of heaven held its breath:
    Luke 24:1–6 (AMP) (The Resurrection of Jesus).
  • Till that stone was moved for good / For the Lamb had conquered death:
    Matthew 28:2–6 (AMP) (Resurrection of Jesus).
  • And the dead rose from their tombs / And the angels stood in awe:
    Matthew 27:52–53 (AMP) “The tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints (God’s people) who had fallen asleep in death were raised [to life]; and coming out of the tombs after His resurrection, they entered the holy city (Jerusalem) and appeared to many people.”
    Luke 24:4–5 (AMP) “While they were perplexed and wondering about this, suddenly, two men in dazzling clothing stood near them; and as the women were terrified and were bowing their faces to the ground, the men said to them, ‘Why are you looking for the living One among the dead?’”
  • For the souls of all who’d come / To the Father are restored:
    1 Peter 3:18 (AMP) “For indeed Christ died for sins once for all, the Just and Righteous for the unjust and unrighteous [the Innocent for the guilty], so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit.”

Verse 4

  • And the Church of Christ was born / Then the Spirit lit the flame:
    Acts 2:1–4 (AMP) (The Day of Pentecost).
  • Now this gospel truth of old / Shall not kneel shall not faint:
    Matthew 16:18 (AMP) “And I say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades (death) will not overpower it [by preventing the resurrection of the Christ].”
  • By His blood and in His Name / In His freedom I am free:
    Galatians 5:1 (AMP) “It was for this freedom that Christ set us free [completely liberating us]; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery [which you once removed].”
  • For the love of Jesus Christ / Who has resurrected me:
    Ephesians 2:4–5 (AMP) “But God, being [so very] rich in mercy, because of His great and wonderful love with which He loved us, even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment).”

Verse 5: Unity

(Sometimes I add additional verses to songs, because I think they are really good and I don’t want them to stop. This is one of those circumstances. These are not part of the published song.)

  • To unite the hearts of nations / Every tribe and every tongue:
    Revelation 7:9 (AMP) “After these things I looked, and this is what I saw: a vast multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all the tribes and peoples and languages of the earth, standing before the throne and before the Lamb (Christ), dressed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.”
  • In His love we find our purpose / In His grace, we are made one:
    Ephesians 4:4–6 (AMP) “There is one body [of believers] and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when called [to salvation]—one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all who is [sovereign] over all and [working] through all and [living] in all.”
  • For the Spirit binds us closely / With a bond that cannot break:
    Ephesians 4:3 (AMP) “Make every effort to keep the oneness of the Spirit in the bond of peace [each individual working together to make the whole successful].”
  • Through His Church, we shine His glory / For the world to see His grace:
    Matthew 5:14–16 (AMP) “You are the light of [Christ to] the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

Verse 6: End Time Revival

  • In the last days, we’re awakened / By a mighty, rushing wind:
    Acts 2:17 (AMP) “‘And it shall be in the last days,’ says God, ‘That I will pour out My Spirit upon all mankind; And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, And your young men shall see [divinely prompted] visions, And your old men shall dream [divinely prompted] dreams.’”
    Acts 2:2 (AMP) “Suddenly a sound came from heaven like a rushing violent wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.”
  • As His Spirit moves among us / Hearts are turned, lives begin:
    Joel 2:28–29 (AMP) “‘It shall come about after this That I shall pour out My Spirit on all mankind; And your sons and your daughters will prophesy, Your old men will dream dreams, Your young men will see visions. Even on the male and female servants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.’”
    Ezekiel 36:26 (AMP) “Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”
  • For the fields are ripe for harvest / And the workers now arise:
    Matthew 9:37–38 (AMP) “Then He said to His disciples, ‘The harvest is [indeed] plentiful, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.’”
    John 4:35 (AMP) “Do you not say, ‘It is still four months until the harvest comes?’ Look, I say to you, raise your eyes and look at the fields and see, they are white for harvest.”
  • In this end-time holy revival / We will see our Savior’s prize:
    James 5:7–8 (AMP) “So wait patiently, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits expectantly for the precious harvest from the land, being patient about it until it receives the early and late rains. You too, be patient; strengthen your hearts [keep them energized and firmly committed to God], because the coming of the Lord is near.”
    Revelation 7:9–10 (AMP) “After these things I looked, and this is what I saw: a vast multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all the tribes and peoples and languages of the earth, standing before the throne and before the Lamb (Christ), dressed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands; and in a loud voice they cried out, saying, ‘Salvation [belongs] to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb [our salvation is the Trinity’s to give, and to God the Trinity we owe our deliverance].’”

Verse 7: The Return of Jesus

  • Soon He’ll come in clouds of glory / With a trumpet loud and clear:
    1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 (AMP) “For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the blast of the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord!”
    Revelation 1:7 (AMP) “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him [realizing their sin and guilt, and anticipating the coming wrath]. So it is to be. Amen.”
  • Every knee will bow before Him / Every heart will lose its fear:
    Philippians 2:10–11 (AMP) “so that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow [in submission], of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess and openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord (sovereign God), to the glory of God the Father.”
    Revelation 21:4 (AMP) “and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be death; there will no longer be sorrow and anguish, or crying, or pain; for the former order of things has passed away.”
  • For the King of all creation / Will return to claim His own:
    Matthew 24:30–31 (AMP) “And at that time the sign of the Son of Man [coming] in the clouds will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth [and especially Israel] will mourn [regretting their rebellion and rejection of the Messiah], and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory [in brilliance and splendor]. And He will send His angels with a loud trumpet and they will gather together His elect (God’s chosen ones) from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.”
    Revelation 22:12 (AMP) “‘Behold, I (Jesus) am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to each one [according to] the merit of his deeds (earthly works, faithfulness).’”
  • And in this, our final victory / We’ll be welcomed to His throne:
    1 Corinthians 15:54–57 (AMP) “And when this perishable puts on the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then the Scripture will be fulfilled that says, ‘Death is swallowed up in victory (vanquished forever). O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin [by which it brings death] is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [as conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
    Revelation 3:21 (AMP) “He who overcomes [the world through believing that Jesus is the Son of God], I will grant to him [the privilege] to sit beside Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down beside My Father on His throne.”

See Also

High and Lifted Up, Worship

Exalted Christ: Recognizing His Divine Authority and Eternal Reign

Beloved, let us lift our hearts and minds to the exalted Christ, the One who reigns supreme and calls all creation to worship Him. The Scriptures declare His divine authority, sovereignty, and ultimate victory, drawing us to recognize and honor His glory. In this reflection, we explore the profound attributes and the universal call to worship the exalted Christ.

Prophetic Foretelling

The prophets spoke of the coming Messiah, high and lifted up. Isaiah proclaimed, “Behold, My Servant will prosper, He will be high and lifted up and greatly exalted” (Isaiah 52:13). Daniel saw in visions of the night, “And to Him was given dominion, glory, and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom one that shall not be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14). These sacred words call us to bow before the One who holds all power and authority. Isaiah also declared, “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). This prophecy invites us to worship the Prince of Peace, who reigns eternally.

Teachings and Declarations of Jesus

When the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, He spoke of His future exaltation and the glory to come. To His faithful disciples, He promised, “When the Son of Man sits on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Matthew 19:28). As the days drew near for His departure, He assured them, “They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” (Matthew 24:30). After He had spoken to them, “He was taken up into heaven and He sat at the right hand of God” (Mark 16:19). The angel announced His birth, “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call Him Jesus” (Luke 1:31), and at His circumcision, “He was named Jesus, the name the angel had given Him before He was conceived” (Luke 2:21). These declarations affirm His exaltation and call believers to anticipate and prepare for His glorious return, worshiping Him as the reigning King.

Apostolic Testimony

The apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit, bore witness to Christ’s exaltation. Peter, standing with the eleven, declared, “Exalted to the right hand of God, He has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear” (Acts 2:33). Paul, in his letter to the Romans, emphasized, “Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Romans 8:34). Furthermore, Peter proclaimed, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). These testimonies call us to fall in adoration before Him who intercedes on our behalf and whose name alone brings salvation.

Pauline Epistles

Paul speaks of the exaltation of Christ and the universal call to worship. To the Ephesians, he wrote, “He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 1:20). In Philippians, he exclaims, “Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:9-11). These words stir our souls to worship Him whose name is above all names. Paul also writes, “May the name of our Lord Jesus be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:12).

The Epistle to the Hebrews

Hebrews eloquently describes Christ’s exaltation and calls believers to worship. “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 1:3). Later, it encourages believers to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). These passages invite us to worship Christ for His sacrificial love and His exalted position.

Letters of Peter and the Revelation

Peter testifies to Christ’s exaltation, declaring, “Who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities, and powers in submission to Him” (1 Peter 3:22). In the Revelation given to John, we hear the triumphant voice: “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Revelation 3:21). In a vision, John saw “every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’” (Revelation 5:13). These declarations emphasize that Christ’s exaltation calls for universal worship, recognizing His ultimate authority and eternal reign. John also saw Christ with many crowns on His head, bearing the name “King of Kings and Lord of Lords” (Revelation 19:12, 19:16).

Universal Call to Worship

From the dawn of creation, the call to worship Christ has echoed through the ages. “May His name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun. Then all nations will be blessed through Him, and they will call Him blessed” (Psalm 72:17). The Song of Solomon praises, “Your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the young women love you!” (Song of Solomon 1:3). In every tongue and tribe, let the name of Jesus be magnified, as Peter declared, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). The apostles testified, “By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through Him that has completely healed him, as you can all see” (Acts 3:16). Even the enemies of the gospel recognized the power of His name: “But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this name” (Acts 4:17). And in Ephesus, “The name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor” (Acts 19:17).

Paul urged the Corinthians, “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought” (1 Corinthians 1:10). He wrote to the Ephesians that Christ’s name is “far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come” (Ephesians 1:21). James also acknowledged, “Is it not they who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called?” (James 2:7).

Conclusion: Worshiping Christ

Beloved, let us lift our hearts and voices in worship to the exalted Christ. His divine authority and eternal reign call all of creation to bow before Him. From prophetic declarations to apostolic testimonies, Scripture affirms Christ’s supreme position and the universal call to acknowledge His sovereignty. His exaltation assures us of His ultimate victory and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Therefore, let us join the heavenly hosts and all creation in worshiping the exalted Christ, for His name is above every name, and His kingdom will never end. To Him be glory and honor, now and forevermore. Amen.

See Also