We live in a world where we are labeled, whether we like it or not. Labeled according to our abilities. Labeled by how conservative or liberal we are. Labeled into categories based on our looks or our talents. And, even if you do everything you can to not be labeled – you still will be. That might be unfortunate, but that’s just the way it is.

However, spiritually – I don’t want a label. I don’t wish to be tied to a certain group or faction. Don’t get me wrong. I love my church. I love my heritage. I don’t want to be labeled – but defined. Defined by something greater. Something more than just the outward.

Through all the crossroads that come across life’s path. Through all the choices my husband and I are making for ourselves and our future family. Through the paradigm shift of what the church has been and what it’s becoming.

I have to ask myself a couple questions, “What will define my life?” “Where should my focus be?” “What’s the most important thing?”

In the last couple of years, through talking with mentors, professors, friends and family… Reading God’s Word… Seeking a deeper, authentic way…

I have found myself combing through different opinions, standards, principles, convictions… feeling almost lost, overwhelmed, and definitely worried.

And that’s when I realized – We make it too downright complicated.

What if we boiled it down to WORSHIP?

Worship is defined by Merriam-Webster as:

• To honor or show reverence to a divine being.
• To regard with great or extravagant respect, honor, or devotion.

What would it look like to be defined by WORSHIP?

First of all, if something defines you – it’s your main focus. It shapes you, changes you. It’s what you’re all about. Everything else in your life correlates with that specific thing. When someone looks at you, this defining mark sets you apart from the next person.

To be defined by worship – adoration – reverence – respect for God means:

His opinion of me is the only one that matters.

His Word trumps public opinion.

My relationship with Him is more important than all others.

I run everything I do by Him first.

I focus on Him before everything, anyone, anything else.

I don’t just lift my hands in worship; I lift my heart – my life – my all. And not just during music!

To be defined by worship – adoration – reverence – respect for God causes me to ask these questions:

• Can I do (fill in the blank) and worship God?

Can I wear (fill in the blank) and worship God?

Can I watch (fill in the blank) and worship God?

Can I say (fill in the blank) and worship God?

Can I go (fill in the blank) and worship God?

It’s not about the dos and don’ts – It’s about the principles behind them all.

So, if I am to be defined by worship to my Heavenly Father – What in my life needs to go? Worry, bitterness, rebellion… I can’t worship someone I don’t love, trust, or obey. Period.

When I think of worship, I don’t think of shouting or running the aisles or swaying during the music – I think of a quiet, sweet, and steady surrender. An unparalleled focus and fixed devotion to the Heavenly Father.

Somewhere, someday down the road – let it be said of me. . . She was defined by Worship! Help me, Lord.

Photo cred: Unsplash.com (Allef Vinicius)