Expression in Worship

Inspired by the heart of King David

8 Biblical Expressions of Worship

King David, a "man after God's own heart," modeled worship that engaged his entire being. His life shows us that when you truly value God, you express it. The more you value Him, the more expressive you become. Here are eight expressions of worship found in the Psalms:

• Bowing

  A posture of humility and surrender, reminding us that we are His servants and He is our Master. It helps to still our minds and focus on Him.

• Dancing

  An expression of pure joy and celebration. David danced with all his might before the Lord, showing us that worship can be joyful and uninhibited.

• Clapping

  A fun and accessible way to express joy and praise. Clapping activates brain regions for motor control and coordination.

• Lifting Hands

  A universal sign of surrender, victory, and affection. Like a child reaching up to be picked up, we lift our hands to draw closer to our Heavenly Father.

• Playing Instruments

  A gift from God used to make a joyful melody to Him. Playing instruments can help with memory, focus, and reducing stress.

• Speaking

  Our words have power. When we speak praise and continually bless the Lord, we put our minds on Him, which is life-transforming.

• Shouting

  A shout of joy is not angry screaming but a high, joyful sound of acclamation. Shouting in joy honors God and strengthens us.

• Singing

  A natural, musical expression of our heart. Music is a gift from God, and when we use it to express ourselves to Him, it is good for our body, soul, and spirit.

Important Considerations for Worship

Danger of Hypocrisy

Expressive worship is only hypocritical when we do it to give others a false impression of our spirituality. True expression comes from a heart that loves much.

Is it my thing?

We express ourselves in countless ways in daily life—clapping at events, dancing at weddings, raising our hands in victory. It’s natural to express what we value most.

Jesus is the Focus

Expressions of worship are merely the vessel, not the focus. Our audience is God, not people. True worship is not about imitating our neighbor but about letting God lead our hearts.

As David's life showed, expression grows over time. God works on both the heart and the body. Remember, it's about Him and for Him, and what we receive is simply icing on the cake.

Challenge for the Week

This week, pick one expression you don’t normally use in your private worship and practice it. You don't have to be ready to dance or shout tomorrow. Just start where you are, and allow God to move you. May we always seek to grow in our worship to God!