Worship and Praise

Lyrics

Worship is a key part of a service. Every word of every song reflects the theology held to and taught by the church.

Our measure is the Bible, and lyrics must be scripturally valid in every aspect.

Praise and worship lyrics are directed towards God

  . . . . in songs that ascribe to Him the honor that is due Him because of who He is (his nature) and what He has done (His works).

songs are to be God-centred

The aim of worship in church is to lead people into a place where they can express themselves directly to God, in songs that clearly focus on recognition of His awesome power and very being.

Songs that are about God may play as people enter the church before the meeting. They may function as  songs that bridge the gap between the week that people have left behind and their settling into the presence of the Lord.

Songs are not to be me-centred.

Focusing on God takes our focus off ourselves. As we praise Him for His awesome power, our problems take their rightful place.

Should there be mention in a song of ‘my’ problems, ‘my’ failures, ‘my’ needs etc, these need to be superseded by the praise statements of God’s ability, love, power and faithfulness in all circumstances.

Songs as Prayers

There are songs that are prayers – as in some psalms – that may speak about a person and a personal relationship with God.

These are biblically valid, though they may not always fit the God-focus we are seeking for praise and worship.

There is a place for these . . .

 –  and this is where sensitivity to the flow of a service comes in.

There are songs that ask for God’s blessing, presence, outpouring, etc., such as Lead me to the River

There are also those that speak of personal dedication, commitment and statements of faith – such as Blessed Assurance.

These may fit at the time of an altar call for salvation or rededication, or as soft background during prayer.