Summary

Pastor Kent explores the concept of worship, challenging the congregation to examine what they truly worship in their lives. He begins by observing that people naturally worship something - whether it's music, sports, substances, or other idols - but often struggle to worship God with the same passion. He defines worship as giving absolute attention and admiration to something while yielding yourself to something greater. The pastor identifies several barriers to worshiping God: distracted minds that settle for distraction over restoration, the misconception that worship requires emotion when it actually requires recognition of God's greatness, treating God as unimportant except when needing something, and concerns about singing ability when worship isn't about performance. He emphasizes that thankfulness to God is the ultimate expression of worship, which begins with understanding our small position before an infinitely great God. The sermon concludes with a reading of Psalm 103, demonstrating how the psalmist calls his soul to worship by remembering God's benefits, faithfulness, and everlasting love.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together in this small group, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to be honest with ourselves about the things we worship and the barriers that keep us from giving You our full attention and admiration. Lord, we pray that You would speak to each person here in a way that draws them closer to You. Remove any distractions from our minds and help us to focus on Your greatness and goodness. We surrender this time to You and ask that You would use our discussion to transform our hearts into true worshipers. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What's the most memorable concert, sporting event, or live performance you've ever attended? What made it so special or unforgettable?

Key Verses

1. Luke 12:48
2. Psalm 103:1-22

Questions

1. Pastor Kent defined worship as 'giving your absolute attention and admiration to something while yielding yourself to something greater.' What are some things in your life that compete for this kind of attention and admiration?
2. The pastor mentioned that we often 'settle for distraction over restoration.' What are some distractions you turn to when you need restoration, and how might worship provide true restoration instead?
3. How does the idea that 'worship is about recognition, not emotion' change your perspective on worship? What does it mean to recognize who God is and who you are in relation to Him?
4. Pastor Kent said that some people only value God 'as a genie in the bottle' - turning to Him only when they need something. How can we cultivate a relationship with God that goes beyond just asking for things?
5. The sermon suggested that 'worship of God is the cure to anxiety' because it puts us in proper perspective. How might regularly worshiping God help with the anxieties and worries you face?
6. In Psalm 103, the psalmist calls out to his own soul to 'praise the Lord.' Why do you think we sometimes need to intentionally direct our souls to worship, even when we don't feel like it?
7. The psalm lists many benefits and characteristics of God (forgiveness, healing, redemption, compassion, etc.). Which of these resonates most with you right now and why?
8. Pastor Kent mentioned that in a thousand years no one will know our names, but God will still know and love us. How does this perspective on eternity affect how you view your current problems and priorities?

Life Application

This week, practice intentional worship by setting aside time each day to recognize God's greatness and thank Him for specific ways He has shown up in your life. When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, try redirecting your attention to worship God instead of turning to distractions. Consider keeping a list of God's benefits in your life, similar to what the psalmist does in Psalm 103, and refer to it when you need to call your soul to worship.

Key Takeaways

1. Everyone worships something - the question is whether we're worshiping God or settling for lesser idols like entertainment, substances, sports, or other people
2. Worship is about giving absolute attention and admiration to God while yielding ourselves to Him, not about emotional feelings or singing ability
3. We often settle for distraction when what we really need is restoration, which comes through worshiping God
4. Thankfulness to God is the ultimate expression of worship and begins with recognizing our small position before an infinitely great God
5. Worship is the cure for anxiety because it puts our problems in proper perspective relative to God's greatness and sufficiency

Ending Prayer

Lord God, thank You for this time of discussion and reflection on what it means to truly worship You. We confess that we often give our attention and admiration to things that cannot satisfy or restore us. Help us to recognize the idols in our lives and turn our hearts fully toward You. Teach us to call our souls to worship even when we don't feel like it, remembering all Your benefits and Your everlasting love for us. As we go from this place, may we become people who worship You not just on Sundays, but in every moment of our lives. Help us to find our anxiety and worry replaced with the peace that comes from knowing how great and faithful You are. From everlasting to everlasting, You are God, and we praise You. In Jesus' name, Amen.