The Philippines is often referred to as a “Christian nation,” but for many, Christianity has become more cultural than personal. Some go to church to make for their sins or find peace, but real worship isn’t about us – it's about God. True worship is our proper response to who God is, what He has done, and what we trust He will continue to do. It is rooted in reverence, a deep and holy fear of hurting or dishonoring God because we love Him.
If we don’t see God for who He truly is, we won’t worship Him rightly. Worship naturally flows when we encounter God’s greatness. Even the angels in heaven fall before Him (Revelation 7:11), so why don’t we worship like this? Psalm 145 reminds us of three truths that fuel extravagant worship.
Great in Power
David begins his psalm by praising God’s unmatched greatness, wanting future generations to know His mighty acts (Psalm 145:1-4). God’s power is evident throughout Scripture, from wiping out armies (2 Kings 19:35) to controlling creation (Psalm 24:1). Even leaders are under His rule (Proverbs 21:1). David experienced this firsthand not only when facing Goliath, but also when he defeated a lion and a bear. Just like God intervened in David’s impossible situations, His power continues to move in our impossible situations today. He gives us strength in trials, endurance for relationships, and grace that changes lives. When we recognize His power, we respond in awe and worship.
Great in Grace
David experienced God’s grace deeply through failure, sin, and restoration. Even after committing adultery and murder, David still found forgiveness (Psalm 23:3). God disciplines us out of love, and oftentimes it is the painful consequences of sin that teach us the most valuable lessons. Even in the valley, David felt God’s presence and favor (Psalm 23:4-5). He was called “a man after God’s own heart” and became an ancestor of Jesus. Once we understand how far God’s grace has brought us, we can’t help but worship Him (Psalm 145:11-13). God’s grace doesn’t just save us; it transforms us to live godly lives (Titus 2:12).
Great in Provision
God is our Jehovah Jireh – our ultimate Provider (Psalm 145:15-16). But often, the issue isn’t provision, but rather contentment, and we have a habit of turning away from God when we don’t get what we want. But when we surrender our desires to Him, we experience His faithfulness deeply. God’s common grace is available to all, but His abundant grace is for those who trust Him. He’s near to the humble, kind to those who fear Him, and protects those who love Him (Psalm 145:17-19). Greatest of all, He gave us Jesus Christ, our Savior (Romans 6:23; John 3:16).
Jesus alone is reason enough to worship extravagantly.
Share at least one instance where you encountered God's power, God's grace, and God's provision.
What are the reasons why some people don't have personal stories of God's power, grace, and provision in their lives?
How can you show extravagant worship to God, knowing how great He is?