Do You Have What it Takes?
Do you ever feel you are too tired, too worn out to do what is required? Perhaps you know what might be most beneficial, but you don’t have the energy or stamina to begin. Maybe you feel discouraged that your life is not what you imagined and you feel uncertain how that could ever change. As a result, you find yourself stuck and wondering, “How will I get out of this cycle and move forward? How will I ever break free from this negative thinking?”
Last week, Part 1 of this series discussed CHOICE as the first step in breaking free. We looked at various scriptures to see how both old and new testament writers implored their readers to choose healthy thinking. Even amid extreme difficulty, the prophet Jeremiah modelled turning his thoughts from his hardship to the goodness of God. He had a choice to make, and he reminds us we do as well. But once we realize this, what is the next step in breaking free from negative thinking?
Worship Defined
Webster defines worship in verb form as:
Worship as a Remedy
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice.
Psalm 29:2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness
1 Samuel 2:2 There is none holy like the Lord: for there is none besides you;
there is no rock like our God.
Revelation 4:11 Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power,
for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created
Psalm 95:6-7 Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.
Further Benefits
Besides adjusting perspective, there are hosts of other benefits to engaging in worship. When we lift our eyes, searching for God, we invite his interaction. James 4:8 says “Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” In his presence, we can find assurance, peace, satisfaction and joy. Psalm 23 talks about the restoring of our souls as we are in the presence of God. That is so appealing to me! I long for his rescue, so I can break free from negative thinking. As I am drawn by his closeness, it prepares me for authentic communication. I’m ready to pray with more honesty and integrity than what it would have been had I stayed with my negative thoughts. Further, coming into God’s presence allows me the opportunity to deepen my relationship with him and know more of his character. This growth brings awakening and renewed faith.
Christian neuroscientist, Dr. Caroline Leaf says,
The Bible has proposed worship as an antidote to mental conditions such as worry and anxiety. For instance, Jesus told us not to worry about the necessities of life, but to seek first the Kingdom of God, then all these things will be added to us. Seeking first the Kingdom of God involves worship. Paul’s cure for anxiety is prayer, supplication with thanksgiving. Much of the Book of Psalms is an intimate look into how to overcome mental anguish through worship. Do we see evidence of worship having a positive effect on the brain and therefore on the rest of the body? The answer is emphatically yes!
What now?
So before you write off this post because you are not a singer or musician, please note that music is not included in the definition of worship. Showing honour and reverence can take many forms. Today’s church talks about ‘worship services’ where we engage in singing, praying, listening. These are common worship activities, but do not hold the boundaries of what defines adoration of God.
Consider:
- What is most meaningful for you in traditional worship? Music? Prayer? Theology?
- Where do you find your encounter with God most rich? Alone on your couch? In nature, beside still water or high on a mountain peak? Perhaps in advocating for the marginalized in the name of Jesus? Maybe it’s in diving deep in theological study.
- How do you best express yourself? How can you tell God that he is worthy in a way that restores your soul? Writing? Art? Service?
- What is holding you back?
In conclusion, if you find yourself lost in negativity or perhaps unable to express yourself honestly with God, consider discipleship coaching. Let’s walk together to discover how to break free from negative thinking and whatever else you feel is holding you back. Mercy Seat Ministry is a faith-based counselling service available to you should you desire therapy.
Father, there is none like you. Indeed, you are higher, stronger, more powerful and beyond all we can think of or imagine. Thank you for the invitation to come boldly into your presence. Help us Lord. It is often a sacrifice to bring our worship; it is uncomfortable! But thank you for the remedy it is! As we lift our eyes to you, we ask for clarity and fresh perspective. Thank you for your patience and grace. We don’t deserve it, but are so grateful.
