David's Life of Worship: God’s Way is the Best Way


David's Life of Worship: God’s Way is the Best Way

By Rev. Dr. Russell M. Morrow

 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing , and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2 NIV.”

Self-determination is a gift from God, and it can be a force for good when it helps us rise above challenges and work toward the well-being of ourselves and others. However, when self-determination becomes selfish and disregards others, it becomes counter to God’s will and dangerous.

For example, one of Frank Sinatra's most famous songs, "My Way," captures a man's journey of living life on his own terms. Although the song became a national anthem for self-determination, Sinatra himself grew to dislike it, feeling it was self-serving and indulgent.

The challenge is to navigate the tension between personal goals and the well-being of others. As Christians, we must overcome our tendency to do things “my way” and align our actions with God’s way. Here are some guiding principles:

1.    Do Things God’s Way: Romans 12:1-2 calls us to present ourselves as living sacrifices and be transformed by the renewal of our minds, discerning God’s will.

2.    Trust in God’s Plan: Ruth 1:16-18 shows us the importance of trusting in God’s unknown plan, as Ruth committed herself to Naomi’s path.

3.    Recognize God’s Purpose: Jeremiah 29:11 assures us that God has plans for our welfare and hope.

4.    Depend on God’s Strength: Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

5.    Commit to Growth: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 teaches us to run the race of life with discipline, aiming for an imperishable prize.

6.    Honor God’s Word: Romans 15:4 highlights the importance of Scripture for our instruction, endurance, and encouragement.

In the end, our mantra should not be “I did it my way,” but rather, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Paul’s letter to the Ephesians encourages us to acknowledge what God can do in and through us when we live according to His way through Jesus Christ.

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