This message, delivered by Alistair Begg and made available by Truth For Life, highlights a crucial point about the nature of worship. For more information, visit us online at truthforlife.org.

It may seem obvious, but it’s an important point to make: hymns are not only for public expression but are also directed to our own hearts. When we sing, we are addressing our souls, urging them to fulfill their created purpose—to give praise and glory to God. In doing so, we call out to the heavenly hosts with whom we share a mysterious union, asking them to help us in our adoration of God. We also call upon creation itself to honor and glorify God, as He alone is worthy of such praise.

This approach to beginning a time of gathered worship is vastly different from starting with a personal pronoun like “I.” When we are encouraged to sing, it can be difficult if the lyrics focus on our own feelings, especially if we don’t feel like singing. In those moments, our hearts need to be realigned with the truth of God’s Word. For example, the psalmist reminds us that God does not always rebuke us, nor does He remember our sins forever. It is a comforting truth, especially on a Sunday morning when we may be acutely aware of our own weaknesses.

When we acknowledge the challenges we face, such as feeling disconnected from our loved ones, it is powerful to remind ourselves through songs like “Father Like He Tends and Spares Us.” These words remind us that God knows our feeble frame and gently carries us, rescuing us from our enemies.

It’s important to recognize that all of life is worship. Everything we do—whether working, playing, eating, or drinking—can be done to the glory of God. Worship isn’t just confined to the time we gather with God’s people; it’s a part of our everyday lives. This is why I find the terms “Worship Center” and “Sanctuary” limiting, as they can imply a separation between the rest of life and worship. But that’s just my perspective.

As we start this conversation on praise, let’s remember that it is one of the most vital themes for God’s people. Psalm 103 reminds us of the importance of praise, and Psalm 102:18 speaks of future generations praising the Lord. We were created to worship God, yet we often end up worshiping ourselves or other things. It takes God’s grace to redirect our focus back to the Creator.

Praise is not only the activity of the church on Earth but also the eternal activity of the church in heaven, as described in Revelation 7. It is the chief purpose of the church on Earth as well.