Devotions: Genuine Worship

 

Nevertheless the people still sacrificed in the high places, although only to the Lord their God.

2 Chronicles 33:17 New American Standard Bible 1995

 

Manasseh was probably the worst king Judah had. His evil resulted in the unwavering punishment of God; no amount of prayer could permanently remove His judgment. However, Manasseh did have a time of repentance where he turned to God and was delivered. The end of his life saw a marked change and he removed idol worship from Judah. Unfortunately, that change was not 100%. The “high places” the people worshiped at were the original places of idol worship. They still went there, even though it was to worship the true God. They did not worship Him as He prescribed in His temple. This resulted in them being more easily led astray later on. Manasseh’s son followed in his old ways to the extent that his followers assassinated him after he had reigned only a few years.

When we worship and serve God, it has to be His way. Aaron, the brother of Moses, lost two of his sons because they did not serve as priests the way God commanded. We won’t necessarily be killed for worshiping God in the wrong way, but it could help to lead us astray. We need to make sure we know what the Bible says about serving and worshiping God. We need to be very careful that we do not mix in practices from other religions. Above all, it is important that we know God, to have knowledge of His word and seek His presence in prayer. Now that we have the Holy Spirit in us, we don’t have to go to a special building to make sacrifices like the Jews did. Our hearts are His temple.

Do you know Who it is you worship? Do you know how He wants you to worship Him? Why do you want to worship Him? These are all important questions to answer before you come to God. Above all, it is important to make sure that your heart is ready to worship and an appropriate place for Him to reside. God cares more about your obedience and love for Him than about the songs you sing or what people see you doing. You do not need to be perfect, but you do need to be genuine.

 

 

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