Josh O'Neal, a member of the Watermark Worship Staff, joins Lauren Atkinson to explore the depths of Psalm 134. They discuss the act of raising hands in worship as a powerful symbol of surrender and emotional connection with God. O'Neal breaks down how lifting hands can deepen one's worship experience. The conversation also highlights the new worship single 'Closer to Home,' emphasizing trust in God's guidance amidst life's uncertainties. Listeners are encouraged to embrace communal worship and express authentic praise.
The podcast emphasizes the communal aspect of engaging with scripture, encouraging shared faith journeys for personal and collective growth.
Lifting hands in worship is portrayed as a genuine expression of surrender, reflecting one's heart posture rather than external expectations.
Deep dives
The Importance of Consistent Bible Reading
Reading the Bible consistently can present challenges, but it is emphasized that starting this practice is always possible. Engaging with scripture is framed as a communal effort, encouraging listeners to view their journey as one that can be shared with others. Additionally, the discussion highlights how personal stories, like those from the speakers, can motivate and inspire faith engagement. This approach illustrates that faith journeys are individual yet intertwined, reinforcing the idea that participants can support one another in their spiritual growth.
Worship and Praise through Song
The podcast discusses the role of worship music in connecting individuals with God, focusing on original songs created by the worship team. One notable example is the song 'Closer to Home,' which aims to provide comfort and reassurance regarding future uncertainties. This song draws inspiration from Proverbs 16:9, highlighting that while personal plans may create anxiety, trusting in God's guidance brings peace. The act of singing and praising is positioned as both a personal and communal expression of faith, encouraging listeners to remember and share what God has done in their lives.
Expressions of Worship: Lifting Hands
Lifting hands during worship is explored as a physical expression of surrender and humility before God. The discussion clarifies that this gesture is not intrinsically supernatural but serves to reflect one's heart posture during worship. Practical guidance is offered for individuals hesitant to raise their hands, emphasizing that worship should come from a place of authenticity rather than external pressure or judgment. Ultimately, the message promotes a culture of freedom in worship, where individuals can express their devotion in ways that feel genuine to them.
Today's psalm is the last of the songs of ascent and God's people are nearing the end of their journey to Jerusalem. Watermark Worship Staff, Josh O'Neal joins Lauren Atkinson to talk about verse 2 and why people raise their hands in worship?
Additional scripture referenced in today's episode: Proverbs 16:9, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."
Listen to the NEW Watermark Waves single: https://music.apple.com/us/album/closer-to-home-single/1775583595
Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g
Got kids? Check out the Join The Journey Jr. Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/eYBgvUM
You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898
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