Singing From the Heart: God’s Way of Worship

When you think about worship, what comes to mind? For some, it’s the sound of a choir, the swell of an organ, or the strum of a guitar. For others, it’s the simple, unaccompanied voices of Christians singing together. But instead of asking, “What do I prefer?” or “What sounds good to me?”—the better question is:  “What does God want?”

That question takes us straight to Ephesians 5:19, where Paul writes:  “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

This one verse says a lot about God’s desire for worship, and if we take it seriously, it challenges us to think deeply about how we praise Him.

If we add in what Paul wrote in Colossians 3:16, “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts”, the emphasis becomes even clearer:  New Testament worship is built upon words, shared in song, flowing from hearts filled with Christ.

God Asked for Singing

Notice Paul doesn’t say “play” or “strum.” He says “sing.” The Greek word used here (ado) means just that—to sing with the voice. This is not an accident, nor is it vague. God chose His words carefully. When He wanted instrumental music in the Old Testament temple, He told the Levites to play (2 Chronicles 29:25). But when He described Christian worship under the new covenant, He told us to sing.

If I invite you to dinner and say, “Please bring dessert,” I don’t mean for you to also bring a pot roast and a bag of chips. I specified dessert. In the same way, when God specifies singing, that is what He expects.

The Instrument Is the Heart

Paul doesn’t stop there. He adds:  “making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

The Greek word psallō once referred to plucking strings, but by Paul’s time it had shifted in meaning—it meant “to sing praise.” To make sure there was no confusion, Paul points out the instrument:  the heart.

This is beautiful. God doesn’t want the twang of a string or the beat of a drum—He wants the melody of a heart devoted to Him. Anyone can make noise on an instrument, but only a surrendered heart can make music that pleases God.

Worship on God’s Terms, Not Ours

Now here’s the part that pushes against modern thinking:  worship is not about our preferences. We live in a world where people shop for churches the way they shop for shoes—looking for what feels comfortable, stylish, or entertaining. But worship is not about what entertains me; it’s about what honors God.

Think about it. If Noah had decided to build the ark out of oak or cedar instead of gopher wood, would God have been pleased? No—because God specified. In the same way, God has specified singing. Adding instruments may feel natural to us, but if He didn’t ask for it, is it really worship to Him?

Jesus put it plainly:  “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Worship in truth means worship on God’s terms, not ours.

The Witness of History

History backs this up. For the first several centuries after Christ, Christians sang without instruments. Clement of Alexandria (around 200 A.D.) warned against instruments, saying they belonged to pagan feasts, not Christian worship. Augustine said the true instrument of worship is the heart. Even the word “a cappella” literally means “in the style of the church.”

So, not only does the New Testament leave instruments out, but the early Christians understood it that way too.

Why It Matters

Some might say, “But instruments make worship richer!” Maybe they sound beautiful to us—but worship isn’t about pleasing us. It’s about pleasing God. If we love Him, shouldn’t we want to give Him what He asked for, not what we think He might enjoy?

Think of it like a gift. If your spouse asks for something simple and heartfelt, but you insist on giving them something flashy and expensive instead, who are you really thinking about—you or them? Worship works the same way. The question isn’t, “Do I like it?” but “Does God want it?”

Conclusion:  The Music God Loves

Ephesians 5:19 paints a clear picture:  God wants His people to lift their voices in song, making melody in their hearts. This is worship that is personal, spiritual, and God-centered.

When we obey Him in this, we’re not missing out—we’re actually stepping into the purest form of praise, the kind the apostles knew, the kind the early church practiced, the kind God desires.

So, the next time you lift your voice in worship, remember:  you are holding the only instrument God ever asked for—the heart. Play it well, and God will be pleased.

The Five Principles of Discipleship: A Journey of Growth, Service, and Dependence on God

Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian life, calling believers to follow Jesus, grow in faith, and help others do the same. In Colossians 1:28-29, the Apostle Paul lays out five key principles of discipleship: proclaiming Jesus, teaching and warning with wisdom, aiming for spiritual maturity, embracing the cost of discipleship, and relying on God's power. These principles guide us in our journey as disciple-makers and strengthen our walk with Christ.

1. Proclaiming Jesus: The Foundation of Discipleship

The first and most important aspect of discipleship is proclaiming Jesus. Paul writes, “Him we proclaim” (Colossians 1:28), emphasizing that our message is not about ourselves but about Christ. As 2 Corinthians 4:5 reminds us, “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord.” True discipleship centers on making Jesus known—whether to unbelievers or fellow believers—so that all may experience His love, power, and truth.

2. Teaching and Warning with Wisdom

Discipleship involves both teaching and warning. Paul states that we are to teach “with all wisdom” while also warning against errors (Colossians 1:28). Teaching involves grounding others in Scripture, equipping them to discern truth from falsehood (2 Timothy 3:16-17). At the same time, warning is necessary when believers stray from the path of righteousness (Proverbs 27:6). Speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) ensures that disciples grow in their faith while being corrected with grace.

3. The Goal: Spiritual Maturity in Christ

The ultimate aim of discipleship is to “present everyone mature in Christ” (Colossians 1:28). It is not just about conversion but transformation—helping believers become more like Jesus. Maturity involves deepening faith, strengthening character, and cultivating a life of service (Ephesians 4:13). This process takes patience, perseverance, and encouragement, as growth in Christ is a lifelong journey.

4. The Cost of Discipleship

Paul acknowledges the toil and struggle of discipleship (Colossians 1:29). Jesus Himself warned of the cost, saying, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Discipleship requires sacrifice, selflessness, and perseverance, even when it is difficult. Yet, despite the hardships, the reward is eternal—helping others grow in Christ and advancing God’s kingdom.

5. Relying on God's Power    

Though discipleship is challenging, we do not do it alone. Paul makes it clear that he labors with the strength God provides (Colossians 1:29). Jesus affirms this truth in John 15:5: “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” Our ability to disciple others does not come from our own strength but from God's power working within us. When we rely on Him, He enables us to bear fruit in His kingdom.

Conclusion

Discipleship is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires proclaiming Jesus, teaching and warning with wisdom, striving for spiritual maturity, embracing sacrifice, and depending on God's strength. Though it is not always easy, it is a calling that transforms lives and spreads the gospel. By following these five principles, we faithfully fulfill the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and participate in God's work of shaping His people into the image of Christ.

Wrestling With Temptation

"Did you see that? -- I can't believe it! The Road Warriors have turned on STING! -- their own partner!"

So went the announcer -- on and on, as the crowd "boo'ed" and cheered. In the center of the wrestling ring, two men called the Road Warriors, had just "pulverized" the three-man opposing team, and were now turning their tumbles, jabs, slaps, and what-have-you against Sting, the third member of their own team!

Unlike, the perplexed announcer, I think it is easy to figure out what was going on. The Road Warriors apparently saw better opportunities on the "dark side" of the ring; better matches, more notoriety, more money. Surely, even if you have seen only one wrestling match, you know they are full of symbolism; good verses bad, nice verses mean, decent verses deceitful . . . costumes and gimmicks give it away.

"Crossing over" is nothing unique to wrestling. We see it in everyday human affairs. People will often change their position or direction because of what "the other side" offers. Loyalties, alliances, contracts -- all fall by the wayside as scruples crumble and collapse under the attractive seductions of the offerings.

Have you ever given in? At one time or another, we have all given in. We have all felt the shame, the agony, and the guilt of failing to hold fast. That all have fallen short of the glory of God is enough to illustrate this truth. Paul said, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light. (Ephesians 5:8)

Others before us have given in. There are several examples found in the Scriptures. One such example is known even by the smallest child -- Adam and Eve; man's first crossing over. Achan, in Joshua 7:19, caused the Israelites to lose a few battles and the lives of some men because he gave in to temptation; keeping back a few of the forbidden spoils of battle. Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for the insignificant amount of a bowl of stew (Genesis 25:34). And, King Solomon started to falter when he began marrying foreign women. "As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been." (1 Kings 11:4)

Several examples can also be seen in the New Testament. In John 6:66, many disciples are said to have "turned back." Matthew tells of a rich young man who "went away sad" when Christ told him he had to give up the world. (Matthew 19:22) And Paul writes the sad note of Demas, one of his fellow workers, who turned back to the world he had left. (2 Timothy 4:10)

One example that stands out for me though, is Peter (John 18). How do you think Peter felt as he heard the rooster in the distance? There stood Peter, a man who had walked side-by-side with Christ in close companionship. Instead of being at His side, Peter stood outside swearing that he knew nothing about Him. And then -- as Christ had told him -- the cock crowed!

Many men throughout time have given in or crossed over. Somehow the lure of riches, power, position or popularity has clouded men's minds and has led them to believe that they would benefit from altering their course. On a spiritual level, this is like derailing a train -- off the track, the train won't go far, and is destined for disaster!

For this reason, there are several instances in which we are encouraged to resist temptation. Proverbs 1:10, Proverbs 4:14, Romans 6:13, Ephesians 6:13, and 2 Peter 3:17, all instruct us to resist temptation, but probably the best encouragement I've found is in 1 Corinthians 10:13:

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

The Lord wants us to walk in the Light. When the world grasps hold of you and begins to wrestle, trying to pull you over into darkness, don't forget to look for that "way out" God has provided!

Fishing the Pond . . . and the Deep!

The last two summers I have tried to take up fishing again; I used to fish when I was younger. Wormy fingers and the smell of salmon eggs are nothing new, but I seem to have forgotten the important things. By important, I mean the things that go beyond the basics -- I know how to tie a line, bait a hook and all of that -- I just don't remember how to get the fish to cooperate.

When I was growing up, I don't remember many Saturdays going by that my grandfather hadn't planned a fishing expedition up to Millerton Lake. Unlike me, my grandfather knew how to get the fish to cooperate; not only on his line, but on my line too! He'd say. "Looks like a big one right over there by that log. I'd cast, and sure enough, the fight was on!

This "fish-cooperation" technique he had seemed to rub on everyone in the boat. In fact, even today, my dad, uncles and cousins have the same ability -- I've got news clippings and photographs of the whale-like "stripers" they have pulled out of the backwaters of Millerton.

My grandfather was a successful fisherman because he knew how a fish thought. Sounds silly, but it's true. He knew what a bass liked, given the condition of the lighting, the weather and the time of day. He would float along, suddenly pick up his pole, cast out, and sure enough, a five-pound bass would jump right out of the water holding Daddy Jim's top water lure in its mouth! He had developed the skills he needed to keep my grandmother's frying pan full.

In today's world, fishing-for-food has given way to fishing-for-sport. Not many people have to fish to survive, so few people have developed fishing to such an art form. Instead, we have developed great systems for providing the fish we eat. Commercially-produced fish are practically farm-raised now, and the fish in the lakes are left alone.

For instance, I remember a restaurant not far from campus when I was in college that advertised "pond-raised" catfish. Just think about it -- pond-raised --that means there is no trouble to get the fish. "You say you want catfish for supper? Well, wait just a minute while I go out back and rustle you up one!" no waiting on the bank in the hot sun for the fish to make his decision. No skill needed to bait the hook or cast the line. No trouble hitching up the boat and driving to the launching ramp.

So, what's my point? Well, fishing is a Biblical topic. Peter and Andrew had been out on the lake all night when Jesus told them to try once more in deeper water. They had hardly caught a fish that night, but when they cast out as Jesus told them, they hauled in so many fish that their boat was beginning to sink. (Luke 5:1-7) Then, Jesus said, "Don't be afraid; from now on you will catch men." (Luke 5:10)

From that day forth, Christ's disciples have been fishing for men. From the church of the first century, to the church of today, the disciples have had the responsibility of following in the footsteps of the Master. (Matt. 28:18-20)

Somehow, though, we have begun to follow the techniques of the commercial fishermen. Most new converts in our congregations today are pond-raised. The typical new converts now are our own children! Now, don't misunderstand me, I think that if we are unable to convert our children, we would be failing in our responsibilities to both them and the Lord. But, perhaps we need to look at what kind of emphasis we are putting on evangelizing the rest of the lost -- those whom are in the deep and dark waters of the world.

Stop and examine our practices. Are we spending most of our effort in converting the "easy catch?" Think about the last evangelistic effort you were involved in. What inroads into the community were made? Most of our gospel meetings and lectureships are designed more for us than for the non-Christian. Few of the youths attending our youth rallies and forums are from "outside."

Please, don't mistake this for an indictment of any particular congregation -- I simply want to draw attention to what practices we are unknowingly falling into; harvesting a few from the pond, feeling satisfied that our creels are full, leaving the lakes and rivers full of others still in their lost and weary condition. Because of this, we run the risk of no longer developing the necessary skills of fishing for men.

If many of us were honest with ourselves, we would have to admit that we expect the evangelism to be carried out by someone besides ourselves -- like we expect our fish to be brought to market. Many of us take great comfort in knowing the "minister" is there -- after all, "isn't that his job?"

Today's pews hold many who are like I am in my fishing; knowing some of the basics, but lacking in experience and skill. If the church is to harvest beyond what the pond will bear, we all need to develop our skills of true evangelism -- not the gimmicky stuff that tends to draw the curious who play at the "fancy" lure, but the kind that presents the gospel of Christ -- letting it draw those who are seriously looking for the answers to their needs; those who will grab it and hold on tight! (1 Tim. 5:12; 2 Tim. 4:1-4)

Trusting In A Two-By-Four

Most of us know, and can easily identify a piece of lumber known as a “two-by-four” when we see one. I’ve been around them in one way or another since as far back as I can remember. They are seen everywhere, and people use them to build almost everything. In fact, you are probably within a few feet of one right now, though it might be hidden from view behind sheet rock or plaster.

Every carpenter and contractor out there would identify the same board as a “two-by-four”. Two-by-fours are a mainstay and building block, so to speak, of the construction industry. If you want to go into carpentry and can’t identify a two-by-four when you see one, I think it would be good idea to consider choosing a different line of work.

Not only do professionals and Do-It-Yourself guides identify the piece of wood as a “two-by-four,” also, if asked, almost anyone will tell you it gets its very name because of the measurements attributed to it – two inches by four inches.

I find it interesting that so many of us know a two-by-four when we see one, and yet few of us know that it isn’t really a two-by-four at all.

“What do you mean?” I can hear you say. Well, let me explain . . .

Though we all call it a “two-by-four”, if you were to measure it, I am confident that you will find the measurements to actually be one-and-a-half inches by three-and-a-half inches. Try it.

You may have known this little fact all along – especially if you have had to measure projects accurately, and have had to make accommodations for the actual size of the wood. But, I am safe in saying that most people don’t know that the common “two-by-four” is really an imposter.

How has this come about? Rest assured, it isn’t a conspiracy by the people at Home Depot, or some long standing joke to get at the ignorance of the woodworking novice. Before being milled at the saw mill, the rough piece of wood actually does measure two inches by four inches. In the milling process, the piece looses a quarter-inch of material in both directions.

“So what?” you say. “Who cares?”

Probably no one in particular; as long as the people building with them know their real size, there is really no big issue. However, how many other “truths” have you come to accept because you have never bothered to check their “measurements?”

I truly believe that most religious error has not come from intentional deception, but by the same means that a two-by-four is named a “two-by-four” -– convenience –- and a lack of attention to details. Some time in the past, someone decided it was much easier to say, “Hand me another two-by-four,” than to say, “Hand me another one-and-a-half-by-three-and-a-half.” I can’t say I disagree; it’s a mouthful, for sure. But, exchanging the more complex “baptism” found in scripture, for the more convenient “Sinner’s Prayer”, for instance, is another matter entirely.

Though we may never see anyone actually watching over our shoulders, we need to be responsible in how we handle the Word of God. Who knows when it maybe you, taking a break from your diligence, that begins to call a one-and-a-half-by-three-and-a-half a “two-by-four!” Where would we be today if Timothy had not heeded Paul’s words when he wrote to him in 2 Timothy 2:15: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

Personal “measuring” is a must. Hadn’t scholarship been telling you the boards were “two-by-fours”? Hadn’t history and even common knowledge lead you to believe it? What is it that has changed your mind about them? -- Holding them up to a standard – a measuring tape.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” -   

2 Timothy 3:16-17

Let the Word of God always be the standard by which we measure all things – as it was for the Bereans. “Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” - Acts 17:11.