“Stay here with the donkey,” Abraham told the servants. “The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, and then we will come right back.” –Genesis 22:5 NLT
Do you know where the word “worship” is used for the very first time in the Bible? It’s in Genesis 22:5. Bible scholars use a method called the principle of first mention: whenever a word is used for the first time, there is a significance that provides insight into the meaning of the word.The very first “worship” is used in the account of Abraham and Isaac going to Mount Moriah. To fast-track the account, Abraham has been told by God to take his son, his only son to Mount Moriah and offer him as a sacrifice. As Abraham is poised to surrender the son whom he holds most dear, the Angel of the Lord holds back his hand, providing a ram as a sacrifice, exchanging its life for Isaac’s life.Based on this story, we view worship as connected with sacrifice. Worshipers must be mindful that worship without sacrifice is just entertainment. You are called to worship in spirit and in truth. That is why you must fix your eyes on the Cross—the great sacrifice of your Savior who exchanged His life for your freedom.
Pray that, as you worship, your eyes will look to the One who laid down His life for you.
Pray for your church’s worship leaders. Ask that freedom would reign in your corporate worship.