Drawing Near Through Worship Series

DRAWING NEAR THROUGH WORSHIP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 4:23-24

Supporting Texts: Psalm 95:6, Hebrews 10:22, 2 Chronicles 5:13-14, Acts 13:2, Exodus 33:9-11

INTRODUCTION:

Worship is not just a song, a sound, or a ceremony; it is an intentional act of intimacy with God. From Genesis to Revelation, we see that worship is a divine pathway into the presence of God. True worship opens the heavens, aligns our hearts with God's will, and makes His presence tangible in our midst.

Many Christians pray but do not worship. They request from God but do not revere Him. Yet, Scripture tells us that God is seeking true worshippers—those who will worship Him in spirit and in truth. Worship is the atmosphere that attracts God; it is the doorway into communion with the Father.

In times of joy or sorrow, when we worship, we shift our attention from ourselves to Him. Worship draws us near, transforms our hearts, and ushers us into the holy presence of the Almighty. It is the key to divine encounters and the fuel for deeper fellowship.

1. WORSHIP IS A DIVINE INVITATION TO FELLOWSHIP

a) God seeks worshippers (John 4:23)

Worship is not about us finding God; it is about God inviting us to Himself.

b) Worship creates access into God’s presence (Hebrews 10:22)

It bridges the gap between heaven and earth.

c) We are created for worship (Isaiah 43:21)

It is our primary purpose and privilege as believers.

d) True worship engages the spirit (John 4:24)

It must be sincere, spiritual, and rooted in truth.

Biblical Example: God revealed His presence in the tabernacle as Moses worshipped, speaking to him face-to-face like a friend (Exodus 33:9-11).

2. WORSHIP PREPARES THE HEART TO HEAR GOD

a) Worship silences distractions (Psalm 46:10)

It brings stillness to hear God's whisper.

b) It clears the atmosphere for revelation (1 Samuel 3:10)

In worship, God speaks clearly to the seeking heart.

c) Worship aligns our spirit with God's will (Romans 12:1-2)

It transforms the mind and renews our perspective.

d) God’s voice is amplified in worship (Acts 13:2)

As they ministered to the Lord, the Holy Spirit gave direction.

Biblical Example: In Acts 13, the early church received divine instruction during worship and fasting, launching Paul and Barnabas into ministry.

3. WORSHIP INVITES THE MANIFEST PRESENCE OF GOD

a) God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3)

Worship makes room for God to dwell among us.

b) His glory fills the place of worship (2 Chronicles 5:13-14)

Even the priests could not stand to minister because of His presence.

c) Miracles and deliverance happen in worship (2 Chronicles 20:22)

Worship can release divine intervention.

d) Heaven responds to heartfelt worship (Revelation 5:11-12)

The throne of God is surrounded by worship, not complaints.

Biblical Example: When Solomon dedicated the temple with worship, the glory of God filled the house so powerfully that the priests could not minister (2 Chronicles 5:13-14).

4. WORSHIP BRINGS INTIMACY AND TRANSFORMATION

a) Worship draws us closer to God’s heart (James 4:8)

It is where intimacy deepens and relationship grows.

b) In worship, we are changed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18)

We become like what we behold.

c) Worship exposes and heals brokenness (Isaiah 6:1-7)

It purifies and empowers us for service.

d) The more we worship, the more we know Him (Philippians 3:10)

True worship reveals dimensions of God unknown to the casual believer.

Biblical Example: Isaiah had a transforming encounter with God in worship. He saw the Lord, recognised his sin, and received a new mandate (Isaiah 6:1-8).

5. WORSHIP STRENGTHENS FAITH IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

a) Worship shifts our focus from the problem to God (Psalm 121:1-2)

It magnifies the solution above the challenge.

b) It builds spiritual strength (Nehemiah 8:10)

The joy of the Lord, found in worship, becomes our strength.

c) Worship rebukes fear and invites divine peace (Philippians 4:6-7)

Peace comes when we praise instead of panic.

d) Worship is a weapon of warfare (2 Chronicles 20:21-22)

Our praise confuses the enemy and secures the victory.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas worshipped in prison and experienced divine deliverance through an earthquake that broke their chains (Acts 16:25-26).

CONCLUSION:

Worship is one of the most powerful ways to draw near to God. It is more than music—it is a moment of surrender, a declaration of love, and a place of encounter. In worship, God comes close. He ministers peace, releases strength, and reveals His heart.

Let your life be filled with worship, not just in church, but daily in your secret place. As you draw near through worship, you will walk in divine intimacy, carry God’s presence, and experience His glory in every season of life.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, teach me to worship You in spirit and in truth.