All In

- Pastor Daniel Garrison

“I will praise you, LORD my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.” - Psalm 86:12 (NIV)

While reading this scripture early one morning, God brought my mind somewhere I wouldn’t have expected.

Have you ever been to a soccer game for kids? I have two young boys who love soccer. So, when soccer season rolls around, we spend our Saturdays watching our kids play soccer. I say “play soccer” loosely because the kids aren’t always playing at certain ages. On one part of the field, you might find a kid standing in full uniform, yet pointed in the wrong direction. They were swinging their arms from side to side, enjoying that butterfly that flew by. Scanning across the field, you might see another kid trotting along but making no real effort to engage in the game. This kid might kick the ball… if it gets close enough to them. Lastly, you see the kid who is dialed in. This kid is focused and engaged. They run directly for the ball and do whatever they can to score the goal!

How does this apply to us? I’m so glad you asked. When it comes to worship, we can find ourselves in a few different categories of participation. Do you find yourself in the room but not always participating? I’ve been there before. Do you participate but only when it’s convenient and within reach? I’ve been there as well at times. Or do you find yourself dialed in during moments of worship, giving it your all? The goal is for all of us to be there.

As worshippers, we’re encouraged by scriptures like Psalm 86:12 to praise the LORD with all our hearts. We have the opportunity to give this 100% of our attention and effort, to pour out all the praise, thanksgiving, love, and affection we can. I would prefer not to do it half-heartedly. I want to be the kind of person who gives it his all, even if I’m tired, distracted, busy, etc. When you choose to worship in those moments, it takes extra effort. It takes sacrifice. So let us be people known for offering a sacrifice of praise because, in so doing, we’re worshipping the LORD with all our hearts.

Make a Difference:

Lean in during moments of praise and worship. Choose to engage fully and be present in that moment. You may encounter God in new and fresh ways as He inhabits the praises of His people.

As You Read:

This week, we will read about God’s redemption in Judges, God’s provision in Ruth, and God’s miracle for Hannah in 1 Samuel. In every situation, we should offer praise and gratitude wholeheartedly to God. Be fully present as you worship Him this week.