Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! —Psalm 66:1

When was the last time you and God met together for a worship service? No choir. No piano. No order of service. Just you and God and prayer.

Want an example? Listen to the psalmist: "I cried to [the Lord] with my mouth, and He was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear. But certainly God has heard me; He has attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, who has not turned away my prayer, nor His mercy from me!" (Psalm 66:17-20).

Did you notice what was happening in those verses? The psalmist called out to God in praise. He came with a pure heart—cleansed by confession. He was confident that God was listening. God accepted the prayer, and He lavished His love on the person praying. The psalmist's worship included praise, a pure heart, communicating with God, and then God's affirmation and love were poured out. Yes, true worship took place.

What a pattern! Think of the spiritual advantage you gain and the honor God receives when you practice worship by prayer. Anytime, anyplace, you can worship the Lord and He will bless you.

Are you ready to worship?

-JDB

In solitude, on wings of prayer
My soul ascends before the throne;
My only hope of strength is where
My heart and God's meet all alone.

-Anon.

God speaks to those who take time to listen, and He listens to those who take time to pray.