Worship as a Lifestyle

Worship as a Lifestyle

Ideas for how to live your life in faith

 

The Saints: The Saints of the Catholic Church are examples of Christians who had a deep love for God. They lived their lives being led by God who spoke to them. The Saints provide wisdom and understanding to us today. By reading the writings of the Saints, we can learn how to walk in their footsteps.

 “How appropriate is wisdom in the aged, understanding and counsel in the venerable.” (Sirach 25:5) 

 

Quiet: Find some time this week to find times of quiet with a Bible in hand. When we sit with the Word in silence, it allows God to speak in our hearts. From our hearts the Word works through us, turning Scripture into actions. 

“[After saying the parable of the seed that fell on good soil and produced fruit, Jesus said,] ‘Whoever has ears ought to hear.’” (Luke 8:8[1] ) 

              

Scripture: Try reading the Bible slowly, taking the time to understand what is written in the text. Beginning your day with Scripture is a wonderful way to start the morning. Memorizing Scripture is also a great practice as it allows the Word to live within us. Taking the time to understand Scripture helps us to walk in holiness and righteousness.

“In my heart I treasure your promise, that I may not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11) 

 

Prayer: In today’s busy culture, it can be difficult to find time for prayer. However, our Biblically defined purpose is to love and worship God forever. Find time to pencil in prayer into your schedules if you need that reminder. Think of the presence of God like that of a friend – we can say whatever we want, even if the words feel clumsy. Aim to simply be in the presence of God, an ancient mystery, an unspeakable majesty, and our Father in heaven. God wants to hear what you want to say, and He will answer you in ways unimaginable. 

“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.” (Phillipians 4:6)

 

Hymnals: Ever wanted to “own” a hymnal? Our parishes make last year’s hymnals available to parishioners when the new ones arrive each Advent! The lyrics of the songs we sing at Mass have deep theological content. Those who meditate on the text of these songs may realize their significance and be spontaneously drawn to worship God right there. Hymns and sacred songs can help to restore meaning and purpose in our faith.

“Allow the word of Christ to dwell in you richly.” (Collossians 3:16)

              

Living Simply: Adam and Eve walked in a perfect environment, but they rebelled against their purpose. In everything we do, we need to do it while always fulfilling our purpose in life to worship God. This is aided by living a simple life. God’s works, like the birds in the trees, are simple; he gave us simple graces to enjoy. Try decluttering your life by cleaning out those things that distract you from God.

“If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with that. Those who want to be rich are falling into temptation and into a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into ruin and destruction.” (1 Timothy 6:8-9)

 

Make Disciples: Our supreme purpose in life is to make disciples, drawing more people to meaningful relationships with God. The friendships we have on earth should encourage each other to walk with Christ. However, we should be wary of those who are not followers of Christ, as they can distract us from our purpose – it is imperative for us to maintain our worship life through our relationships.

“In the same way your light must shine before others, so that seeing your good works, they may give praise to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)