Elements of WorshipSample

sound <-----> silence

Expressive worshipper, some of our most quoted Psalms on the topic of worship are those that call for a symphony of sound from voices and instruments. Melody, harmony, and rhythm have ever undergirded the praise of the Lord’s glorious character and ways: strings, applause, a single note to soar upon, drums, a shout, wind and stringed instruments, even whispers flow from our lips directly to His heart.

Try to fathom, if you dare, the complexities of the sound released to God in corporate worship—any single gathering has the potential to express inimitable combinations to God. There are times when withholding that sound would mean the rocks would have to cry out.

But worship does not always call forth sound. Sometimes the presence of God transports us to reverent silence. In silence our clamoring, resisting, and striving cease as we find an equally beautiful worship dimension in awe, waiting, rest, and affection. Here our being communes with God without language. We simply love one another. I like to think of silent worship as “locking gaze.”

Worship is inconceivably intimate. Each of us express an irreplaceable response—created to Creator. The expression is as unique as the details of our face, the way we process our God-experiences, and the essence of our spiritual DNA. He is worthy of it all.

An Invitation

Get ready for an exciting stretch in worship.

Sound resources are everywhere. Ask Holy Spirit to help you take this opportunity to tap, hum, shout, or strum with a fresh variety of rhythms and melodies. Experiment with sound, both alone and in fellowship with other believers. Go ahead, say and sing. Compose and play. Risk sound in worship.

Now let’s move toward worship in silence. If you have never worshipped in this way, an in-between step might be to open a lovely instrumental accompaniment and practice communing with God without forming language. Give your soul and spirit permission to present tender affection directly to the heart of God.

When you are ready, come to God in silence, direct your spiritual eyes to His face and simply gaze at Him in love or sit beside Him in silent adoration.

Be patient. Holy Spirit delights in expanding our worship in both sound and silence.