We worship our great God with deep reverence (10 mins.)
In a world where worship of God can be challenged by negative influences, it is more important than ever to demonstrate our devotion in a dignified and respectful manner. The fear of Jehovah—that profound respect for our Creator—moves us to act rightly, avoid evil, and strive to honor Him at all times.
In meetings, we show respect to God by the way we listen and arrange ourselves.
One of the most visible ways we demonstrate that respect is in our meetings. Not just by attending, but by how we do so. When we are worshipping Jehovah, we should conduct ourselves with the dignity worthy of the occasion.
LET'S READ ECCLESIASTES 5:1
“Watch your steps whenever you go to the house of the true God. It is better to approach there to listen than to offer a sacrifice as fools do, for they do not realize that what they do is evil.”
This reminds us that we should not attend out of routine or custom, but with an attentive and reverent spirit. Our way of dressing, our behavior, and, above all, our attentive listening, speaks volumes about the respect we feel for Jehovah.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and motivates us to do good works and to shun evil. This feeling of profound reverence for the Creator moves us to avoid displeasing and disobeying Him.
Therefore, it is essential that we cultivate such awe and manifest it at all times. One way we demonstrate our reverence is through our conduct and behavior in gatherings.
When we show respect at meetings, we not only honor Jehovah, but we also set a good example for our brothers and sisters, strengthening unity and love among us.
Our public prayers are well thought out and reverently performed; they are not very long nor full of lofty words.
Respect for God is not only reflected in our behavior, but also in the way we pray.
LET'S READ ECCLESIASTES 5:2
“Do not be hasty in opening your mouth, nor let your heart speak thoughtlessly before the true God. For the true God is in heaven, but you are on earth. Therefore, your words must be few.”
When we offer public prayers, we want to represent the congregation well before Jehovah. Therefore, we prepare them carefully, choosing simple, clear, and respectful words.
Jesus himself gave us an excellent example. Before raising Lazarus, he said simply, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.” He didn’t use elaborate words or make a long, drawn-out prayer. His prayer was humble, direct, and full of confidence.
Likewise, the model prayer Jesus taught prioritizes what is most important: the sanctification of Jehovah's name, the coming of his Kingdom, and the fulfillment of his will. When our prayers reflect these same values, we demonstrate that we truly respect God and put his concerns first.
We fulfill our vow of dedication
After reflecting on our conduct in the meetings and our prayers, we should ask ourselves a personal question: Am I fulfilling my dedication to Jehovah?
LET'S READ ECCLESIASTES 5:4, 5
“When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, for he does not take pleasure in foolish people. Whatever you vow, fulfill it. 5It is better not to make a vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.”
On the day of our baptism, we promised Jehovah to serve him with all our hearts. That was a sacred vow. Are we still living up to that commitment? Or have we gradually slowed down in our service?
Fulfilling our commitment doesn't mean being perfect, but rather standing firm, continuing to progress spiritually, participating in meetings, praying sincerely, and supporting true worship with our daily actions.
Illustration
The image in our activity guide shows a group of Israelites standing by the city gate, paying attention to a priest holding a scroll. The people are sitting or standing, their faces attentive and their eyes fixed on the priest as he reads and explains the Scriptures. The atmosphere is solemn and respectful; no one speaks, no one is distracted, and everyone is absorbed in the word of God.
Similarly, when we gather in the Kingdom Hall and the Scriptures are read and explained, we should show respect and reverence to God by listening attentively, actively participating in worship, and demonstrating sincere interest, with a heart willing to learn and obey God's word.
Conclusion
Worship of Jehovah is not just words; it is demonstrated by actions. When we attend meetings with respect, offer reverent and thoughtful prayers, and faithfully fulfill our vow of dedication, then our worship becomes a source of strength and comfort, even in the midst of trials.
May we be able to say with conviction every day: “Jehovah deserves the best of me, and I am determined to give it to him.”
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