Turning Work into Worship

A while ago, we looked at the idea that worship is not only singing praise songs; it’s anything done for the glory of our Father. Making a cup of tea for someone, volunteering at the kid’s holiday club or even picking up that piece of litter—it’s all worship as long as we are glorifying God. Worship is a lifestyle of abiding in God. 

How do I glorify God?

The first step is to find your purpose. Think about that for a second. What makes you unique? What little personality quirks has God given you? Is there a way to use your uniqueness? Perhaps for a specific ministry or way of worshipping God? God designed us to walk in our purpose–one that He created especially for us. Ephesians 2:10 ESV says, 'For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.’ 

While our main purpose is made just for us, there are general callings that we, as Christians, have been commissioned with. One such calling is to become more like Christ in the ways we think, act, feel and love. Another is to tell others about our God, who has saved us. Sound familiar?

What about the small things?

Yes, we worship God when we follow His purpose for us, but not all worship is so obvious. The little things that come along when we follow Christ’s example could be classified as work. We have to hold open the door for the person behind us, we have to greet people with a smile (even if you’re not a morning person and find yourself at church!) and we have to love those we would rather not. How do we turn this work around into worship? 

It starts with intention. Intentionally thank God for the opportunity He has given you. Actively look for ways to fulfil your purpose in the trivial things. Most vital is to pray; ask God for the right heart attitude. Then get to work…I mean worship! 

Ultimately, worship is presenting ourselves as living sacrifices before God. 

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12: 1-2 ESV