Author: Greg Tharpe

It was Sunday morning and the church was filled to capacity. Everyone was dressed and ready to praise and worship God. The band was jamming and the choir was rocking as they sang high energy songs that brought the people out of their seats and moving to the music. The preacher was very charismatic and entertaining as he kept the congregation exhilarated and feeling good throughout his sermon.

“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him, God is a spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” [ John 4:23-24]

There are two types of praise and worship: There is religious (literal) praise and worship and there is spiritual praise and worship. Religious praise and worship is an outward act of showing reverence to God. It is the most popular and what each religion regards as the correct way to worship God, which is mostly done in churches through some type of religious service on Sunday.

Although the different religions and denominations oftentimes praise and worship differently, some cultures and religions do it in a more festive, exuberant and entertaining way than others, using music, song, dance, rituals, dress, costumes, verbal shouting or chants. While others are more subdued and humble, some even use reptiles and animals such as snakes and chickens, in their praise and worship services.

Many religious followers believe that unless one proclaims to be a member of a church and attend religious services, they are not doing what is required for praising and worshiping God. However, just because a person does not attend a church, does not necessarily mean that person does not have a close relationship with God; that person may be closer to God than the person who claims to be a follower of a religion. He or she may choose to worship spiritually and not by way of organized religion.

When we view praise and worship solely from a religious or literal perspective, it is a choice that we made based on the ego or fear. Little do we know it separates us from God and the intimate relationship necessary to experience the unrestricted love, joy, peace and happiness that we truly desire.

Spiritual praise and worship is not an outward act to be seen by man, nor does it require spoken words. It is an act that occurs in one’s heart where one quietly communes with God telepathically via a meditative state. It is a personal relationship and does not require the approval of a religion. It can quietly be done at any time without anyone knowing except you and God.

The spiritual church or temple is within you; therefore, it is not made of wood and nails or brick and mortar. It never closes and is always open, twenty-four hours a day seven days a week for praise and worship. The spiritually awake souls attend it consciously throughout the day each and every day, not just on Sunday for worship service.

When you accept this spiritual perspective as truth, it raises your vibrations or consciousness, gives you clarity and brings you closer to God or joy.