The word ‘worship’ comes from the Old English word ‘worth-ship’. It means to ascribe worth to something. As such, the meaning of life is to worship. To ‘bring glory to God, and enjoy him forever’ (Westminster Confession of Faith) means God is to be the most glorious and enjoyable person or thing in our lives.
This is why gathering for corporate worship on a Sunday is the high point of the Christian’s week. There is nothing more terrifying to Satan and his demons than God’s people worshipping the Lord together, having our consciences washed clean, and being strengthened for the week ahead. And this is why Satan will do everything in his power to stop Christians from coming to church.
- He will try to convince Christians that church is optional, rather than a summons by our Sovereign.
- He will place alternatives before us, like sport, family gatherings or parties.
- He will harass us with all manner of worldly cares on Sunday morning
- He will make us think listening to a sermon by a famous preacher, that is not their actual pastor who knows and loves them, is better
- He will make us think our digital devices are a good substitute for real people
- He will make us think church is boring, or isn’t meeting our own consumerist needs
- He will cause our thoughts to wander during the sermon or prayers.
- He will distract our thoughts during singing from what we are affirming about God
These are but a few of Satan’s weapons against Christians delighting in God’s worth together of a Sunday. May we be vigilant against them, and not allow Satan any small victories over us in this area.
(Adapted from Chris Larson, ‘Wear Down Worship’, Bible Talk (Sep 2019); Section 5).
