Teaching Notes

WORSHIP INSTRUCTIONS

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, - 1 Timothy 2:1-3

There is much debate about worship and worship styles. Some do not like the traditional hymns and some do not like contemporary music. However, worship is more than the music we listen to. Paul gives Timothy clear instruction on what worship must contained, those things that are not to be changed. Music styles can change and be blended but there are some things that need to be consistent.

Paul's instruction is that first requests, prayers, intercessions and thanksgiving should be made for everyone. What does this mean? Prayer has to be a vital part of a worship service. Also a time of thanksgiving or praise to God has to be an important part of our worship services.

What is also important about prayer is that we must pray for our leaders, both in our government but also within our churches. Our prayer is so that we can have peace and live a holy life before God.

How does this relate to you? It is important to understand that God requires certain things from all his children. It does not matter if you perfer to listen to a certain kind of music during your personal time, but what is more important is do you take time to pray? Do you take time to thank God for what he has done for you?  Do you pray not only for yourself but for others? These are the things that are important to God (both in our time of worship with others as well as our personal worship time). Today I encourage you to spend time worshipping God his way.

Prayer: Lord help us not to become so concerned with things that are not as important to you, but help us to see the importance of worship your way. Help me to pray, to give thanks, and to pray for others. Help me to spend time worshipping you in a way that is pleasing to you, Amen.