We tend to let worship or praise be mostly a matter of talent these days.  Gifted singers and performers combine for music that moves our emotions.  Style is less important than the ability to sing or play an instrument.  Even our cherished hymns receive an upgrade by adding new bells and whistles to the mix.  Smaller congregations are at a serious disadvantage due to this reality.  Leaders do try hard in such places but old pianos and organs are no match for multiple member bands and trained singers.  Many a small church often feels lacking in comparison to the performances they see on television or at special events.  Making a joyful noise becomes difficult at such times.

Yet it is scripture that reminds us that authentic worship and praise begins and ends with God.  David would write psalms and hymns in diverse conditions without the tools we believe we need today.  New Testament writers will begin their epistles with words of praise to God because of His grace and mercy.  Emotion seems to give way to a spiritual reality not affected by song or style.  Believers are urged to recall the grace of God that brings us into relationship with Him.  Those events of Easter are the measuring stick by which we gauge our worship.  Real worship is a matter of a reality or truth that goes far deeper than an oft repeated chorus.  We begin to understand that truth of grace until our eyes and hearts look realistically at the present and longingly into the future.  Perspective becomes what God both did and is doing in our world right now.

Emotions can be fickle at the least.  Reality is what we perceive or what we calculate about the moment.  Trials come our way to dampen that enthusiasm we felt at one time.  The true temptation is to long for the feeling more than the reality.  It is our way of putting the cart ahead of the horse.  Troubles are often referred to as fiery much less painful.  Ever notice there is not much casual about fire?  Even the smallest flame can cause damage along with the pain.  Maturing in faith calls for us holding intently to truth while learning new applications in our conditions.  None of this is simple or easy.  It is a fight for the faith in our heart and mind.  David in those songs will often find something to praise God for even if he is at a crossroads.  He cannot control all going on around him but David will choose to turn his attention on God.  He finds deep grace in the worst of disasters.

No one will ever be able to call a truce in the worship wars.  My guess is they started long ago and shall continue until Jesus returns.  Only in heaven will we all get on the same page or note.  That is when we are overwhelmed by God in His truth and glory beyond words.  Look a bit more closely at Him rather than the emotions in play.  Never settle for just feeling better when you can find God in your midst.  Set sail from the shallow waters of feelings into the deep sea of truth and grace.  It may just give you a genuine reason for praise.

Bro. Trey