John 4:23-24(NLT) 23 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. 24 For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”
1. The connection between music and worship
2. The value of worship in spiritual battle
Jehoshaphat got news vast armies aligned against him –prayed and fasted – going into battle – put the singers in front
2 Chronicles 20:21-22(NLT) 21 After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” 22 At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves.
At the end of the battle – took three days to sort out the plunder – fourth day gathered in valley of blessing – returned with singing
Three dimensions affected – heaven – hell – earth
God’s will done in heaven – blocked in hell – interfered with on earth
Contradictory paradigms
Worship on earth connects with heaven
Strongholds from hell invade earth
Worship connection with blessings anchored in heaven and released on earth – breaks strongholds anchored in hell attached on earth
Prayer time in our Sunday services worship – atmosphere – power of unity – love – faith released
3. The significance of practicing God’s presence
Psalm 46:10-11(NLT) 10 “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” 11 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress.
Some called to extended prayer/fasting/study
All called at times to extended prayer/fasting/study
Essential to recognize – we are the temple of God – the presence of God indwells us
Music and worship warfare are tools to access the presence and to leverage the presence – presence is there all the time – live in the presence
Spirit – soul – body – connect with your spirit – connected to God’s Spirit
This week – practice the presence of God – expand your awareness of that presence wherever you are – create a lifestyle of worship