Then Job stood up, tore his robe and shaved his head. He fell to the ground and worshiped, saying: Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will leave this life. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away. Praise the name of the Lord.–Job 1:20-21
One problem with us today is that we often forget we own nothing. Talent, leadership ability, and even the very lives we live are God’s property.
Job lost all he had through no fault of his own. As he struggled to understand why, it became clear that it was not meant for him to know the reasons. How he reacted is paramount—He worshiped God! Today we tend to worship depending on how well life is treating us. Job exemplified a very valuable principle—worship is the lifestyle we lead, not the momentary prevailing mind-set.
Walk it Out. We have to live out our theology through action.
Obey. Every Christian has been called to obedience. Job was known as a man of integrity because he obeyed God.
Respond. With every challenge we face, we are granted the privilege to respond. Job responded and prevailed.
Serve. We must give unselfishly of ourselves, even during times of trial.
Humb le Yourself. When we relate to God intimately, adversity will not have to be the catalyst to make us lay
down our arrogance.
Impact (not impress). We impact others more through example than if we spend time trying to impress them.
Purposeful Living. In every facet of our lives, it is imperative that we are intentional about our actions. If it does not serve an eternal purpose, it is potentially hazardous to our spiritual health.
1. What situations in life tend to strip you of your desire to worship?
2. How would you rate your current level of worship?
3. Which of the points in WORSHIP really got your attention?
Matthew 4:10; John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1
Lord, forgive me for my arrogance. I don’t want the circumstances of life to dictate how I worship You. Today I humble myself before You. Draw me close to You today. Amen.
About the Author:
Malcolm Marshall is the chaplain for the NBA’s Houston Rockets. He also ministers as Christian rapper Excelsius. Malcolm and his wife Stacey (a former coach with the WNBA’s Houston Comets) are the proud parents of three kids: Jaren, Madison, and Sydney.