One God, Different Ways

Psalm 145:1-3 – I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name forever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. (NIV)

I attended a soccer game recently, where two of my grandchildren were playing. As I observed the young parents around me, I noticed several different mindsets. Some were totally focused on their child and their experience, yelling "Good job" each time one of their children touched the ball. Others were focused on the entire team, cheering on every good pass or other quality team play, while paying little attention to individual efforts.

Some parents shouted until they were hoarse. Others sat calmly, knowing their child knew they were present. They did not feel the urge or the need to shout out or call names. Sadly, there are some parents who feel that winning is the most important aspect of the game. They want their child's team to win regardless. If not, they blame the coach, the referee, or whichever scapegoat that can be found for the loss.

These same traits can be found in our worship, as well. Some of us are very expressive, while others are subdued. Some people focus on themselves and their families, while others see the church as their family. Yet God is the same God, whether we worship Him in loud and expressive cheers or in quiet, dignified reflections. We are the ones who are different. God is the same.

Prayer: Lord, we praise Your name, all of us in different ways, some with singing and shouts of praise, some in silence and reverence for Your name. We know You are the same; we are the ones who are different and who have different needs. Amen.

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