A Heart of Praise: The Art of Worship!
Welcome to Sunday, the *_2nd day of FEBRUARY 2025._* This is THE YEAR OF OUR ULTIMATE TRIUMPH! Receive your *GOOD NEWS* as we continue our ultimate march *_from trials to triumph!_*
*Within this year of Ultimate Triumph, the heavenly bodies will organise a feast to celebrate your flourishing; your endeavours will witness an unprecedented success; your God-instituted ministry will soar higher; your debts will be divinely settled; and your household will be at peace. The Almighty God has announced your triumph, writing off your trials to His Glory in Jesus’ Name!_*
AMEN! 
Our *THEME –* Our *GOOD NEWS –* is titled:
*_“A HEART OF PRAISE: THE ART OF WORSHIP!“_*
Our *TEXT: Hebrews 13:15-16.*
*Hebrews 13:15-16 (NKJV)
15 *_Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name._*
16 *_But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices, God is well pleased._*
Let us worship God with *MHB. 23: _”King of Glory, King of Peace!”_ Author: _George Herbert_ (1593 – 1633)* Meter: *7.4.7.4 D*
*1.*
King of glory, King of peace,
I will love Thee;
And that love may never cease,
I will move Thee.
Thou hast granted my request,
Thou hast heard me;
Thou didst note my working breast,
Thou hast spared me.
*2.*
Wherefore with my utmost art
I will sing Thee,
And the cream of all my heart
I will bring Thee.
Though my sins against me cried,
Thou didst clear me;
And alone, when they replied,
Thou didst hear me.
*3.*
Sev’n whole days, not one in sev’n,
I will praise Thee;
In my heart, though not in heav’n,
I can raise Thee.
Small it is, in this poor sort
To enroll Thee:
E’en eternity’s too short
to extol Thee.
https://youtu.be/Czc3czHPENk?si=oXEwlnvRpdZNDogs
*ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND THE HYMN!*
I must appreciate my beloved brother, Rt. Rev. Dr Okechukwu Ogba – MCN Bishop of Ndoki-Asa – for this commentary. He has been my hymnody mentor for more than a decade. Thank You.
The author of this hymn, Herbert George, was born on April 3, 1593. He was educated at Westminster School and Trinity College, Cambridge. He died in 1633 at a young age of 40.
George Herbert wrote the wordings of this hymn in 1633. The lyrics are packed with interesting turns of phrase. However, I’ve chosen to focus on the drama that seems to be about George Herbert’s inner life.
There are three players:
*Herbert,*
*God,* and
*Herbert’s sins.*
The opening lines do not exhort us to bow down to this King of glory and peace. Instead, Herbert proclaims *“I will love thee.”*
He then describes just how and why he’s compelled to do this. He says he will *‘move’ God.*
What does this mean? In the second stanza, Herbert explains. He is going to *‘sing thee’.*
He determines to use his *‘utmost art,’* his very best artistic offering – the gift of song. He isn’t trying to persuade God to listen to him. Instead, he wants to *‘move’ God* with his voice, one of God’s gifts.
This may be a way to deal with the clamour of accusatory voices in his head. *He’s been cleared, spared, heard by God and fully accepted as he is.*
Still, in the second stanza, the voices of his sins seem to want the last word. Perhaps *his sins* are arguing with God about whether Herbert deserves to be heard, much less cleared of his sins.
Surely, God knows George Herbert better than to let him off the hook! *Though my sins against me…*
Yet the hymn is clear:
*God has indeed heard him, spared him, cleared him, and granted his request.*
Thus, Herbert now offers back to God *‘my utmost art,’ ‘the cream of all my heart.’* His best voice in song.
There are obstacles, of course. First, there is only one Sabbath in the entire week, not nearly long enough for what Herbert has in mind. No problem! He declares he will spend every day of every week praising God.
Secondly, Herbert is on earth; God is in heaven. That doesn’t matter either. He can still ‘raise’ or lift up God every day in his heart, right here on earth.
Herbert acknowledges that this is *a ‘small’ and ‘poor’ way to ‘enrol’ God.*
He acknowledges that even if he could do this through eternity, that wouldn’t be long enough to render to God the praise, honour and gratitude that fill Herbert’s heart.
It is a magnificent vision from a poetic heart. It moves me to tears. Indeed it also moves God.
Later altered verse 3 reads:
“Sev’n whole days, not one in seven,
I will praise Thee.
In my heart, though not in Heaven,
I can raise Thee.
Thou grew’st soft and moist with tears,
Thou relentedst:
And when Justice call’d for fears,
Thou dissentedst.”
The video came courtesy of the Melharmonic Virtual Choir, thanks to Bro. Chibuike N. Onyesoh.
*LET US PRAY:*
1. Psalm 100:1 – “Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!”
*_I receive God’s spirit of joy in worship: Grace is settling all that concerns me today, in Jesus’ Name._*
2. Psalm 100:2 – “Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.”
Papa, the Almighty, Thank You for giving me understanding. I am glad in my situation but I covet Your mercy to make things better, in Jesus’ Name.
3. Psalm 100:3 – “Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves.”
I receive the grace to serve the Lord with gladness: For my breakthrough, God is destroying the ancient landmarks of evil older than my ancestors, in Jesus’ Name.
4. Psalm 100:4 – “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise.”
*_I covet eternal gratitude to God in my heart as we enter His presence, in Jesus’ Name._*
5. Psalm 100:5 – “For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting.”
*_With divine mercy, I embrace the grace to transit from my trials into triumph with an awareness of God’s enduring mercy and truth, in Jesus’ Name._*
6. Hebrews 13:15 – “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name.”
*_Accept my sacrifice of praise, O LORD, for a continuous spirit of praise in my life and relationships: I declare that my speech, deed and thought will be a reflection of my gratitude to God – in Jesus’ Name._*
7. Hebrews 13:16 – _“But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices, God is well pleased.”_
*_Authority in Heaven, in Jesus’ Name, I receive the ability to do good and show benevolence to others for the exaltation of the Nation in which You established my feet._*
Remember, Our *GOOD NEWS –* is titled:
*_“A HEART OF PRAISE: THE ART OF WORSHIP!“_*
BIBLE PASSAGES:
Old Testament: Psalm 100:1-5.
- *_Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!_*
2. *_Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing._*
3. *_Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture._*
4. *_Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His Name._*
5. *_For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations._*
NKJV.
New Testament: Hebrews 13:15-16.
15 *_Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name._*
16 *_But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices, God is well pleased._*
NKJV.
Our *TEXT: Hebrews 13:15-16.*
Beloved, today we gather to explore the profound theme of worship, encapsulated in our title: “A Heart of Praise: The Art of Worship.” We live in a world beset by economic turmoil, political unrest, and personal struggles. Yet, the Word of God calls us to respond differently. Let us turn our hearts toward Psalm 100 and Hebrews 13, where we find powerful truths about worship that can transform our perspective and circumstances.
- *The Call to Joyful Praise* (Psalm 100:1-2)
“Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.”
This passage begins with a call to joyful praise. In times of distress, we may feel overwhelmed, but God invites us to shout joyfully. This is not shallow happiness but a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing who God is.
To our genuine leaders making frantic efforts to apply solutions to our Nation’s economic turmoil, let your policies be infused with hope rather than despair. Let your governance build joyful hearts that trust in God’s provision. When you lead with praise, you inspire a nation to rise above its challenges.
As you navigate profound challenges, dear business leaders, remember that praising God can reshape your corporate culture. You do not have to make an overt public show of it: When we serve with gladness and foster an environment where gratitude flourishes, we inspire creativity and resilience among employees.
Dear Friends, are you caught in your lowest ebb? Please shift your attention from the pain and distress, lifting your voices in praise to God. Believe me, from personal experience, worship is a powerful weapon against despair. In your darkest moments, note that praise can shift your focus from problems to God’s greatness. Often, before you relapse into the forgone troubles a miracle has occurred.
- *Knowing Our God* (Psalm 100:3)
“Know that the Lord, He is God; He has made us, and not we; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.”
Understanding our identity as God’s creation is vital. We are not alone in our struggles but part of an excellent plan.
Leaders, recognise that your authority is derived from the Almighty. Govern with the understanding that you are stewards of His creation. Seek God’s wisdom in decision-making, and your leadership will reflect His grace.
Are you an Industrialist or a corporate bigwig? Business administrators should remember that they exist because of God’s provision. Acknowledge His role in your success, and let your corporate practices reflect ethical standards that honour God.
Esteemed friends, in your struggles, remember that you are God’s cherished creation. He knows your needs and is with you in your trials. Trust in His providence. Thinking of providing for your home alone during difficult times is not a Christian way of life. Sacrifice some comforts for the needy to smile due to your extension of a hand of help. No matter how we criticise religious organisations, remember there are honest clerics or clergy who are still on God’s side. Please reach out to sponsor Mission, Evangelism or Church Welfare Calls. Do it for God, who are men?!
III. *Entering His Presence with Thanksgiving* (Psalm 100:4)
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His Name.”
Thanksgiving is the gateway to God’s presence. When we approach Him with gratitude, we find solace and strength. You will enthuse that this day is the day God has made for you to rejoice in it.
To privileged leaders of Government, in times of crisis, may our leaders prioritise gratitude to their citizens and God in their rhetoric and policies. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge the efforts of those who serve the community.
To CEOs of Corporations, corporate leaders should cultivate a culture of thankfulness. Please be aware of your employee’s contributions and celebrate milestones together. This fosters unity and morale.
For Individuals: List things you are thankful for in your lowest moments. Shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right. This simple act can profoundly change your mindset.
- *The Goodness of the Lord* (Psalm 100:5)
“For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.”
Our anchor is the Lord’s goodness. No matter the turmoil we face, His goodness remains steadfast.
Dear Politicians, remind the citizens of God’s goodness. Use your platform to declare hope and inspire faith in a brighter future, not through vain motivational talks but by fulfilling your campaign promises.
Dear Captains of Industries, let your businesses reflect God’s goodness through ethical practices and community engagement. Be a beacon of hope in these challenging times.
Dear friends, remember, God’s mercy is everlasting. No matter how far you have fallen, His grace is sufficient. Trust in His promises and do your own part in making amends. We need not criticise our leaders till they get frustrated. Find a godly way to assist your nation and people in Government by performing your civic rights.
- *The Sacrifice of Praise* (Hebrews 13:15-16)
“Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His Name.”
Worship is not just about feelings; it’s a deliberate act of will. In the face of adversity, our praise becomes a sacrifice.
To our Government Officials: Let your policies be rooted in gratitude and service. When you serve your people with a heart of praise, you fulfil your role as a leader. Use your platform to communicate hope and make decisions that uplift the nation’s spirit. As you do, you embody the truth of God’s goodness.
To the leaders of Corporations: Encourage a culture of praise within your organisation. Acknowledge your employees’ hard work, celebrate achievements, and create spaces where gratitude is expressed openly. This boosts morale and builds a strong community, enabling your business to thrive even in difficult times.
For Individuals: If you feel overwhelmed, remember that praise can be a lifeline. Even when everything seems bleak, let your voice rise in thankfulness. Speak life into your circumstances, confessing positively and prayerfully watching as God transforms your situation.
*_In closing_*, “A Heart of Praise: The Art of Worship” is not merely a call to sing songs but a challenge to embody gratitude and hope amid turmoil. Whether in government, running a business, or facing personal struggles, remember that your response to adversity can be a powerful testimony of faith.
Let us shout joyfully to the Lord, serve with gladness, and enter His presence with thanksgiving. Let us acknowledge that our God is good, His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures through all generations.
As we leave this place, let us commit to being vessels of praise, allowing our hearts to overflow with gratitude and trust in our Lord’s goodness. Together, as we cultivate a heart of worship, we can navigate the storms of life with faith, hope, and joy.
May God bless you as you carry this message into your homes, workplaces, and communities. Amen.
*Again, Let Us Pray!* 
8. Matthew 18:20 – *_“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”_*
(NKJV).
*_I glorify God for His ever-present manifestation in my life: Now revamp the economy of our Nation and fulfil Your word, in Jesus’ Name._*
9. Romans 8:1 – _“There is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus.”_
(NKJV).
*_I receive the divine strength to overcome the voices of doubt and sin: Now, let every plan of the enemy of God on our Nation come to nought, in Jesus’ Name._*
10. Colossians 3:23 – “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”
(NKJV).
*_O Father, Creator of all things! Replace every eye service in my attitude with a resolve to worship God with my utmost art, in Jesus’ Name._*
11. Psalm 34:1 – *_“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”_*
(NKJV).
*_With Your Praise in my mouth, establish in me, O LORD, a commitment to praise God daily for the abundance of all graces._*
12. Psalm 95:6 – _“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.”_
(NKJV).
O LORD, Give Your Church a deeper understanding of Your character in our worship – that Our answered prayers may no longer be delayed, in Jesus’ Name.
13. Revelation 4:11 – _“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power; For You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.”_
(NKJV).
*_We believe in eternal perspectives in our acts of worship: Fulfil the manifestation of our prayers and let Your enemies fear Your Power, in Jesus’ Names._*
14. 2 Chronicles 7:14 – _“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”_
*_O Lord, reveal the source of my Nation’s woes and yokes under which we labour to genuine intercessors: Forgive us permanently that we may no longer grieve you, in Jesus’ Name._*
AMEN.
May we commit ourselves to this path, trusting that God will lead us to excel in this season of triumph. Amen.
*_I now command every sickness – including the emotional, financial or spiritual barrenness – and failure in your life, home and ministry to be cast into the desolate places, NOW, in Jesus’ Name._*
*Beloved, Happy New Month!*
*_Amen._*
* * *
*I prophesy, according to the Word of God, that YOU will not become Satan’s prey in this End-Time where the enemy of God strives to win souls through human beings’ growing inordinate ambitions to live in a world without GOD. The human desire and demonic demand of this ageing world will not swallow you up – in Jesus’ Name.*
*_At Christ Jesus’ inspired word, the great help of God will cause you to flourish, annihilating your fears and destroying the traps set for you at these dangerous times, in Jesus’ mighty Name. ONLY BELIEVE!_*
GLORY BE TO GOD!
*_Alleluia!_*
As God’s Anointed, I humbly prophesy, according to the Word of God, the evil declarations against your life are NOW divinely annulled and defeated, in Jesus’ mighty Name.
*_Every plan of the Kingdom of darkness against your soul has perished – forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*
*_As for me and my household – including these prayer partners reading, hearing and praying along – we shall serve the living God in sound health, good wealth and prosperity of our souls, in Jesus’ Name!_*
*_I love you, in Jesus’ Name!_*
*Amen. God Bless You!*
*Enter To Worship… Depart To Serve!*
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*Bless Someone Today: It’s Your Happy Sunday Morning.*
HAVE A GLORIOUS NEW MONTH OF FEBRUARY, in Jesus’ Name. 
