An Ideal Leisure Choice

THE SINCERE and heartfelt worship of Almighty God is an ideal choice in the use of free time. For hundreds, thousands, and even millions of people around the world, acts of worship occur while attending services at a place of worship on a regular basis. This is not to say that merely being present at a church service automatically, in every case, always guarantees true worship for every person in attendance. The percentages are good, however, that many will experience genuine worship by attending church because the setting, atmosphere, and activities have been created in an attempt to make possible a personal relationship with the Heavenly Father for every individual.

Worship has been defined in the dictionary as "to pay great honor and respect; to consider extremely precious; to hold very dear; to demonstrate great love, admiration, or adoration; to take part in a religious service; and, ceremonies or services in honor of God." Services of worship in a Christian church often include music, with instruments, choirs, and the singing of hymns or praise songs; the reading of scripture; opportunities for giving of tithes and offerings; prayers; a message or sermon; and an invitation for a personal response to Jesus Christ, God's Son, either in private or in a publicly announced decision.

Individuals may join in worship with others in a congregation of any size. Or, they may gather in small groups of friends or family members to study the Bible, pray, and worship God. It is possible, of course, for individuals to worship alone. This type of personal and private worship could include the reading of scripture; the reading of a short devotional or other printed material; and a quiet time for reflection, meditation, and prayer.

Some people claim that their form of worship is sitting on the bank of a creek, river, or lake with a fishhook in the water every Sunday morning. While it is possible to appreciate the beauty of nature and the handiwork of the Creator during a fishing trip, chances are that this activity - or others like it - will seldom, if ever, constitute meaningful worship.

The essence of worship - whether in a crowd, a small group, or alone - is a person's encounter with the Living God. It is focusing attention on the Creator of the universe. It is a connection - a relationship - with God in order to enhance communication. It is reverently coming into His presence with a sense of thanksgiving and gratitude, and a desire for fellowship.

The worship of God is time well spent, and an ideal leisure choice.