In chapter 6 Michal looks a lot like some church members
today. She is turned off by David’s exuberance in worshipping the Lord and she
makes her feelings very clear. You’ve seen this haven’t you? When someone
around begins to be more exuberant than others and lifts their hands or claps
loudly or even dances a little before the Lord, these “Michals” look on with
disdain. The message is written all over them that this behavior ought to be
stopped.
This reminds me of a definition of the word “fanatic” I
heard once. A fanatic is anyone who loves the Lord more than I do. Recently I
heard the rather extreme position given that lifting one’s hands in worship was
the first step in becoming a charismatic. That’s almost laughable if it weren’t
so sad. I certainly hope you’re not guilty of being one of these “Michals.”
What is your attitude in worship? Well, to answer what it
ought to be we have to start with the truth that worship is first and foremost
a matter of the heart. If one’s heart is truly worshipping the Lord then the
outer actions are only an expression of that. And those outer actions won’t be
the same for every person. So you and I, when we worship, ought to be focused
on our own worship and not that of those around us. Resist the urge to judge
someone’s heart and focus on what your own heart’s desire is. I wonder: are we
like David willing to be contemptible and abased in the eyes of others as we
make merry before the Lord (22)?
Prayer: Father, forgive the Pharisaical tendency in us to
judge the hearts and motives of others. Help us to be so intent on worshipping
you with all our heart, soul, mind and strength that we don’t have room left
for looking down our spiritual noses at others. Help us to humble ourselves
before you as we worship your holy name.
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