Psalms 111:7, 8

Worship is central to the Christian life. Here is a reflection on what it means to hold fast to faith in the midst of life’s trials...a message that inspires Christians to connect the dots between singing the song and living the life. Based on Matt Redman's new book 10,000 Reasons.

Discipleship works against fear. As we obey God’s commands, we entrust ourselves to him. Like the students attending the schools founded by D. L. Moody in Northfield, MA, God’s people “are encouraged to test the meaning and value of the Bible’s teachings experimentally, by acting upon them, and living them out.” As we “test experimentally” the word of God, we will find that we will have fewer and fewer reasons to be afraid. You can get an expanded version of this plan at moodycenter.org/fear.

As we praise God today, let's keep in mind the heavenly worship service we'll one day take part in: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain . . . !” (see Revelation 5:11-12). Here's how we praise, says Charles Spurgeon: “We simply say what [God] is! ‘You are this and You are that.’ There is no other praise.” Why not invite friends and family to “join the chorus” with you?

When we choose to remain in hope rather than throwing in the towel when times get tough, one thing is certain: We are on our way to fulfilling our God-given destiny.