Lately, I am often alarmed when I talk to people about their beliefs in God.

I see a direct correlation between one’s beliefs in God and their response or connection to Christ during worship, prayer, life groups, and/ or fellowship. Our walk with the Lord should not be a static dry experience. I pray this article gives you new revelation about worship, and that it refreshes you to new heights in Him!

While I was traveling this summer to three teacher conferences, I met a lot of interesting people. I’ve asked a lot of nonconfrontational, yet thought provoking questions on coffee breaks and over dinner. One thing that most teachers have in common is their belief in God. I had many depressing conversations with tourists at the pool and bar too. Most people believe in God, but they don’t believe that He can or will do anything for them. Most people are saved, but they are not really walking with Him. They don’t believe that He is really here. They say He is God. But if you listen closely, they don’t believe what they have been told about Jesus. Sadly, it sounds a lot like defeated Christianity in action.

I have visited both traditional and non-denominational churches too.

I report sadly that I do not see much of God’s love lighting faces and hearts. You can tell when you talk to people. He is not real to them. This I found to be devastating, and it leads me to pray for the outpouring of God’s spirit of love and worship to baptize our hearts and our churches across our country. Times are hard, and people really need Him. I need Him! This commentary is coming from my own personal experience in worship, which I first encountered at Mt. Zion Church, in Mi over 15 years ago. It continues to change my life and keep me alive in Him. I was taught to stay plugged in to God, and that worship was more than singing and going to a worship service. It was and is a lifestyle that can be experienced and continually lived through joy, the storms of life, and heartbreak!

Why would someone invest so much time in a relationship (going to church) that feels flat and stale and so one sided? This is not God’s intended design. God is on the scene every day and every moment. If I am not aware of Him, I am the one who has swayed or ignored my lifeline and the life preserver. Often, I forget what He has done for me. How could I? I write this piece in truth and transparency. I get caught up in the chaos of my life, and I forget about Him. News flash: Jesus is on the scene; He’s my peace champion! That is something to be excited about. We are good at reminding others; well, now it’s time you started reminding yourself!

It comes down to choice for many and for some ignorance. People like to hold onto old pains, nurse old wounds, and live as victims. I do this from time-to-time still; I have to admit. But if I can, in a moment of worship, be with Him, and suddenly all of the “stuff” disappears instantly; that’s where I need and want to be. I find that I forget all the muck and clutter, and I feel so uninhibited. The more I go to Him; the less I will revisit past pain. I find healing, life, and help in His presence.

The key here is being plugged into God. Go to a church that is alive and expressive in their worship and serious about God’s power. I know that to some this sounds crazy, but there are quite a few churches out there providing a bad service: Fast Food Christianity. It doesn’t meet the desperate needs of the aching heart. I once said I would never sit in a church that was dead. I have done it out of fear of change. I have to walk in faith, and sometimes this may require a change. Be careful; and of course, seek God if you are considering this action. Also, I can’t say it is the church’s full responsibility to feed us and refresh us. This has to come from our daily connections with God, reading our bible, and staying fellowship with His people on a regular basis. This may mean making more room for God in your life and less TV shows and Movies. If you put Him first, you will have time to do what you need to do. Things once you did before become less important. Getting to know God becomes viable. Balance and commitment is the secret. Isn’t that true for all relationships?

In addition I ask questions about people’s worship services this summer. I find the same questions being bounced directly back at me, and then I can provide assistance on this topic. People are hungry for God! I inquire if there is life and celebration, as well as times when they sense a connection with God during worship? Do they experience moments where they are captured in His Love? That is what happens to me in worship; I tell them I feel like I am on a mountain, and He and I are in constant loving and spiritual intimate fellowship. So much so that when I lead worship, I lose my place in the words or where I am in the song. This happens in my car too. It can happen anywhere. Most people look at me like I’m crazy when I talk about this. I’m not ashamed to talk about Him. Is He real or not? It is more than just being saved folks. It has to be! He came here to walk with us one day at a time through our journey.

If we spend time with him in His presence, we will be changed and renewed.

Our perception of life has got to get better. How we react to what is happening has to get better. Relationship requires an investment of quality time, not just time. Many people are walking with God amiss. They are missing Him. If you really desire more of God; get connected in prayer, worship, life groups, fellowship, and when you are ready, ministry. Do you want more of Him in your life no matter where you are: the car, the church, the shower, and or wherever you are?

Here’s how to get more of Him and find peace and rest in Him. First, revel in His love. Think about what He has done for you, what he is doing for you, and give Him thanks for it. Who cares if others are looking! Focus on how mighty He is! Then think about how much you love Him. Tell Him you love Him. Yes, you can still do this in your head if your church service is very reserved. Tell God that you want to be near Him and in His presence. Tell Him over and over. Block everything, and I mean everything that distracts you! Stay focused, and before you know it, you will be there. Nothing will matter, but you and Him. Remember it is not about your outward expression, as long as something is really happening in your heart and life. Do you see change and growth? The great news is you can reach Him anywhere and anytime. I will continue to practice what I believe, as I have found this lifestyle of worship to be life changing! If I forget, may I be reminded of His great love toward you, His Bride, and myself. Be blessed and celebrate Him!