Living Life by Design

Having been a worship leader for many years, it’s no surprise that I love worship music. There’s simply nothing like taking a group of people by the hand and leading them into the presence of God through singing. I especially loved leading worship for teen groups. Over the years I formed several teen bands that would travel and lead worship and give concerts. Two of my favorite groups were, IOG (Instruments of God) and 30 Day Challenge. Both groups loved to perform songs from any one of Michael W. Smiths worship albums. One of our staples was, “Let it Rain”.

When Michael W. Smiths performed the song, ‘Let it Rain’ on his first ‘Worship’ album, the first part of Psalm 97 is read. I had read the psalm many times before but when it was read in conjunction with the song it captivated me. In verse 1, the psalmist proclaims, ‘The Lord reigns’. If the Lord did not reign, there would be no point to life – but HE DOES and there is cause for rejoicing… ‘On your knees… worship Him!’ (v.7).

We praise God first, for who he is, and then second, for what he has done. It is because of who God is that he acts to bring protection, deliverance, guidance and joy to his people (vv.10–12).

*God Protects Us – He guards your life: ‘Those who love him he keeps safe’ (v.10).

*God Delivers Us – He delivers you from the hand of the wicked (v.10c). He snatches you from their grip (v.10).

*God Guides Us – He sheds light on you. He guides and convicts, opening your eyes (v.11).

*God Is Our Joy – He gives joy so you can rejoice in him and praise his holy name. (vv.11,12) – ‘The irresponsible joy that comes from consciousness of His favor and protection’ (v.11).

Until the love of God changes our perspective, we will remain slaves to ourselves, our sin, and to our own bodily appetites. The Apostle Paul is our example…the opposite. Because of Jesus Christ, Paul made his own body his slave and made himself ‘a slave to everyone’ (1 Corinthians 9:19).

Paul was indeed passionate about his sharing of the Gospel and his purpose was ‘to win as many as possible’ (v.19). This was certainly the reason why I formed the touring teen worship bands.  God protected us, delivered us from difficult situations, guided us  and was his joy. He was Paul’s to…just as he is is yours.

For all that God has done for you and in you, can’t you find a few moments in your busy day today to share Him?