In the book of Hebrews, we learn about the priority of worship. True worshipers “draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings” (Hebrews 10:22a). One who truly worships God gathers with God’s people believing that God meets with, speaks to, and works in the midst of His people when they come together to worship Him.

Consider the fact that true worshipers “draw near to God … having [their] hearts sprinkled to cleanse (them) from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water” (vs. 22). One who truly worships God seeks to walk in the forgiveness of God — appreciates the seriousness of sin and appropriates the cleansing blood of the cross. They express their love for God through worship because of the love God has expressed toward us through the cross (Romans 5:8).

Just as the Old Testament priests and Levites would first bathe before they served the Lord in the temple courts, true worship makes us fit for the Lord’s service (Exodus 29:4; Numbers 8:5-11). Experiencing true worship will embolden us to serve the Lord in at least three ways.

First, true worship emboldens us to walk with God. If your experience of worship doesn’t make a difference in your daily walk, then you are not really drawing near to God. We cannot spend time in the presence of God and not become more like Him.

To truly worship God is to focus on and respond to Him. There is no higher goal. We come into His presence to worship Him because of Who He is — El Shaddai — Almighty God!

Secondly, true worship emboldens us to work with God. Paul says “we are co-workers in God’s service” (1 Corinthians 3:9). This passage tells us two things: (1) your contribution is critical. You are saved to serve! (2) your contribution is unique. You are uniquely shaped for this purpose! That’s what God wants His church to be also — “co-workers” with Him.

Finally, true worship emboldens us to bear witness of God. True worship brings out the passion in our lives. Peter says “in your hearts revere [worship] Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15).

If your experience of worship doesn’t make a difference in the way you share Christ with others, then you are not truly drawing near to God! The bottom line is that one cannot truly participate in worshiping God and remain the same. If you are truly worshiping God, it will make a positive difference in your walk with God, your work with God and your bearing witness of God.