Spiritual Pathwaysنموونە

Reflection & Worship

This week, we are looking at different ways men can connect with God. We declare without caveat that Jesus Christ is the only way to the Father (John 14:4-6), but we also recognize that God has made us differently from one another, and there are many ways by which a man might draw close to God.

One such way is the “Reflection” or “Contemplative” pathway (Psalm 46:10). Men on this pathway feel closest to God when they are pondering, wondering, thinking, and, as the name suggests, reflecting on the things of God.

Men like this will enjoy a good sermon or reading a good Christian book but will enjoy even more the ideas and insights that come as they go for a walk or a drive in the car and let their minds meditate on the subject matter (Psalm 1:1-2). As they roll the ideas around in their thoughts, they feel their soul stirred and excited about the things of God and feel refreshed and renewed in their spirit as they do.

The Psalmist often spoke of this type of practice (e.g., Psalm 48:9; Psalm 77:1-12; Psalm 119:15; etc.), sharing the strength and faith that grows as a man draws near to the Lord in this way.

A different way to draw close to the Lord is through Worship (Psalm 100:1-5). Through the act of praising God, musically or otherwise, some men will connect with God’s presence powerfully.

Men on this pathway particularly enjoy the musical portion of Sunday service and often have worship music playing in the car or at home. They sing loud (whether they can sing or not is irrelevant!) and can easily connect with God as worship is happening. They often feel that “This worship set was too short!”

King David is a great example of this sort of man, worshiping God passionately and engaging in communion with God as he did (e.g., 2 Samuel 6:14-15; Psalm 16:1-11; Psalm 21:1-7; etc.).

We all need to use our minds and are all called to worship, but some men will find these significant meeting places with God. If either of these pathways sounds like you, be sure to unapologetically carve out time and space for these activities in your life—they are essential to your walk with God!

Prayer: God, thank You for the imagination You gave me to meditate and ponder, and for the voice, the hands, and the body You gave me to worship You! Let my mind and my praise constantly please You with what they offer You. Amen.

Reflection: With the two pathways we looked at today, give each one a try—take some time for some meditation, and then take some time to worship Him, taking note of what happens as you do!