“Worship That Comes From the Heart”
Outward devotion means nothing if the heart is distant. Jesus reminds us that true worship isn’t about rituals or appearances—it’s about a sincere heart that loves and obeys God. Let your worship come from within, filled with truth, humility, and faith. Don’t just honor God with your lips; honor Him with your life. “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.” — Matthew 15:8–9 (NKJV)
Catherine - Woman of Faith
10/30/20251 min read
Scripture
Matthew 15:8–9 (NKJV)
“These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.”
Observation
Jesus addressed the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes, who focused on outward traditions while neglecting inner devotion. They appeared holy through rituals and words, but their hearts were distant from God. True worship cannot be based on man-made rules or empty actions—it must flow from a heart genuinely surrendered to God.
God values sincerity over show. He sees beyond our religious acts and listens to the posture of our heart.
Application
I must examine my own heart and ask whether my worship and service truly honor God or merely fulfill routine. It’s easy to say the right words or follow church traditions, but what pleases God is a heart that loves Him, obeys Him, and seeks truth over appearance.
Today, I choose to worship God with sincerity, allowing my heart and actions to align with His Word rather than human expectations.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Forgive me for the times I have honored You with my lips but kept my heart distant. Teach me to worship You in spirit and in truth. Purify my motives and help me to live with genuine love and obedience. May my words and actions reflect a heart that truly belongs to You.
In Jesus’ name, amen.