The Lift of Worship

In Daily Devotional by Lewis Lau

Bible Passage: “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:8 ESV)

Scripture Reading: Acts 7:54-59

Truth be told, I don’t have any psychological research for you today.

Empirical, psychological research takes a scientific approach to reveal patterns among people that could point to broader truths about how we, and our minds, are designed.

This week, we’ve seen how research has revealed patterns pointing to biblical truths and principles.

Yet, natural research won’t help with the topic I’m highlighting today because it’s supernatural in nature.

Today, I want to propose to you that worship is a key to pushing through depression, and it’s supernatural because worship is enabled and led by the Spirit of God.

In essence, worship is the recognition of the worthiness of someone and has three key postures: bowing down (i.e., surrender); respect (i.e., fear and awe); and service.

It’s a broad concept, but worship is the expression of our proper response to the Lord and who He is—the most worthy One.

Paul’s heart of worship toward Jesus is so clearly displayed in our passage today. To him, knowing Christ is the most worthwhile and valuable thing in his life. He is unashamed in declaring that Christ Jesus is far more valuable and worthy than anything else—so much so that he counts all else as “rubbish.”

That’s worship.

When I picture Paul sitting in the darkness of his prison cell exalting Jesus as the most worthy One while writing this letter to the Philippians, I can only imagine the joy on his face and pleasure in his heart.

I imagine that he would have looked much like Stephen did when he looked up to Heaven and saw the glory of God, while the members of the Sanhedrin prepared to stone him to death (Acts 7:54-59).

In the depths of darkness, men can find light when we turn our gaze to the worthy One who sits enthroned in Heaven. Worship completely transforms our inner life, regardless of the circumstances.

No matter how paralyzed you feel by the symptoms of depression today, I want to encourage you to turn to Heaven and exalt the One who is most valuable, worthy, beautiful, and powerful.

Let the Holy Spirit guide you in worshipping Him, and watch the light of God begin to overcome your darkness.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, I acknowledge that You are the One who makes Christ known. I recognize my need for You to teach me and guide me in worshipping Christ. Lead me in worship and reveal to me the surpassing value of knowing the One who created me. Let the light of Your presence fill the room that I’m in right now, and let me be caught up in the glory of Christ. Amen.

Reflection: Has worshipping the Lord been difficult in recent times? If so, what have been some things that have kept you from worshipping Christ? How does your inner life change when you turn your attention to worship? How does corporate worship affect your mind, heart, and soul?


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About
Lewis Lau
Lewis Lau is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). He holds B.A. and M.A. degrees in Psychology and Applied Health Sciences (respectively) from Brock University, in addition to a M.A. degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. In addition to his psychotherapy work, he is the Connections Coordinator at Lakemount Worship Centre and is completing theological training from Portland Bible College. His life's passion is to connect young adults and men to the life-changing presence of Jesus Christ.
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Lewis Lau
Lewis Lau is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying). He holds B.A. and M.A. degrees in Psychology and Applied Health Sciences (respectively) from Brock University, in addition to a M.A. degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. In addition to his psychotherapy work, he is the Connections Coordinator at Lakemount Worship Centre and is completing theological training from Portland Bible College. His life's passion is to connect young adults and men to the life-changing presence of Jesus Christ.