The Great Exchange of Worship
Last episode we saw that worship is declaring the worth or value of God. This week we look at the "great exchange of worship!" Worship aligns us with the throne of God’s grace. Does that mean you have to say nice things to God to get him to do nice things for you? Not at all. What it means is that when you worship God, you align yourself with his throne of grace. You are more likely to feast at the King’s table if you sit at the King’s feet. You are more likely to get wet if you stand in the river than if you wait out in the desert.
Promo: Making Time
You have the same 24 hours in your day as the most accomplished people in the world. So why doesn't it feel that way? Follow along on this special 6 episode series as we take a look at how to make more time. By following biblical principles and taking a look at what you really want, Making Time shares the secret to having all the time you need... with a little help from some friends.
Learn more and download group guides at https://lumivoz.com/making-time/
For questions, comments, or sharing your tips on how to make more time, reach out to makingtime@lumivoz.com
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You have the same 24 hours in your day as the most accomplished people in the world. So why doesn't it feel that way? Follow along on this special 6 episode series as we take a look at how to make more time. By following biblical principles and taking a look at what you really want, Making Time shares the secret to having all the time you need... with a little help from some friends.
Learn more and download group guides at https://lumivoz.com/making-time/
For questions, comments, or sharing your tips on how to make more time, reach out to makingtime@lumivoz.com
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In addition to the abbreviated discussion questions below, the full study guide is available at https://store.pastors.com/the-way-of-a-worshiper-study-guide.html
And for more great studies and curriculum, search for "Lumivoz" in your favorite podcast app or go to https//lumivoz.com
SESSION TWO
And for more great studies and curriculum, search for "Lumivoz" in your favorite podcast app or go to https//lumivoz.com
SESSION TWO
The Great Exchange of Worship
CATCHING UP
1. How did the truths you learned in our last session impact your week? Were you able to share at least one key idea with anyone?
2. Did you read chapters one through five in The Way of a Worshiper this week? Have one or two of you share something you read that was
particularly meaningful.
KEY VERSE
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord. Psalm 89:15 (NIV)
Closing Thought: If you find yourself in a dark, confined place, if your back is against the wall and it feels like you can’t move . . . then worship God. Stand in the river of his grace. Welcome him into your circumstance.
Jesus told us in John 4:23 that the Father is looking for worshipers. So if you are looking for God and you just can’t seem to find him, then stop what you are doing and worship him, and he will come find you.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. The title of this session is “The Great Exchange of Worship.” Now that you have heard the message, what does that title mean to you? What happens in our lives as a result of worshiping God?
2. Worship is a learned behavior. How can you learn to worship God?
3. What does it mean to you to live in the “river of God’s grace”? Share any images these words evoke.
4. In the Psalms, David describes God in many ways: my shield (7:10), my savior (18:46), my redeemer (19:14), my strength (22:19), my shepherd (23:1), my light (27:1), the stronghold of my life (27:1), my hiding place (32:7), my deliverer (40:17), my refuge in times of trouble (59:16), a father to the fatherless (68:5), my confidence (71:5), my loving God (144:2), and many, many more. Which of these descriptions of God is most meaningful to you? Share briefly with the group.
PRAYER DIRECTION
Sung Prayer
Listen to, or sing along with “I See the Lord” and “Open the Eyes of My Heart” on the Songs for The Way of a Worshiper playlist.
Silent Prayer
Perhaps you are facing a situation right now that will become a part of your life testimony. In silent prayer, make yourself available to God’s grace and align yourself with his throne by welcoming the Lord’s presence into your situation.
Group Prayer
As the psalmist taught us, God’s names reflect his character. He saves because he is the Savior. He provides because he is the Provider. He gives wisdom because he is the Counselor, and so on. As you think about the challenges you are facing, how do you need to call on the Lord in prayer—as Savior, Provider, Defender, Healer, Comforter, Counselor? Share your prayer requests with the group, and then pray for one another by addressing God using one of the specific names that most applies to your situation.
LIVING ON PURPOSE
Fellowship
We encourage and build each other up by sharing the stories of our personal God-encounters, and by comforting “those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV). Like David in the Psalms, we discover truths about God’s character through our life experiences. Buddy told one of his stories today. Can you think of a time when God met you in a similar life-changing way? If so, share your story as an encouragement for the group.
We encourage and build each other up by sharing the stories of our personal God-encounters, and by comforting “those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1:4 NIV). Like David in the Psalms, we discover truths about God’s character through our life experiences. Buddy told one of his stories today. Can you think of a time when God met you in a similar life-changing way? If so, share your story as an encouragement for the group.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
1. Start each day this week by offering worship to God. Thank him for his love, his mercy, and his power. Praise him for his faithfulness and compassion. Welcome him into your daily life. Tell him all about your specific needs, challenges, and hardships, and invite him to let his will be done in your life.
2. Before your next session, read chapters six through ten in The Way of a Worshiper, and be ready to share your thoughts and insights with your group in your next session.
3. Who do you know that needs to hear the message of “The Great Exchange of Worship”? How can you encourage them in their current life situation?
Creators and Guests
Host
Buddy Owens
Teaching Pastor @Saddleback Church, focused on spiritual formation, and author of The Way of a Worshiper & Finding God in the Desert of the Soul.
