My wife and I were recently blessed to travel to the mountains of northern New Mexico for a conference where I was speaking. After flying into Albuquerque, we enjoyed the beautiful drive to Red River, taking in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
As we traveled, I couldn’t help but notice the glowing neon signs outside many of the hotels and motels: “No Vacancy.” Of course, that was true of the places where you’d actually want to stay. A few establishments still had rooms available, but they also looked like they might include bed bugs as complimentary guests.
New Mexico isn’t unique in this regard. During the summer months, desirable lodging across the country often fills quickly with vacationers and travelers.
Even so, “No Vacancy” signs reminded me of a very important biblical truth—worry and worship cannot live in the same house.
It’s impossible to do both at the same time. We can go through the motions of heartless worship and still worry; but true, heart-felt, biblical, awe offering and awe-inspiring worship of the King of Kings cannot dwell with worry.
That doesn’t mean concern and worry are the same thing. Scripture distinguishes between the two. The apostle Paul carried a deep burden for the churches he served (2 Corinthians 11:28), and he expressed continual sorrow for his Jewish brethren who had rejected Christ (Romans 9:1–5). Nevertheless, the worry of tomorrow cannot dwell with the worship of the One who already holds tomorrow in His hands.
So, which one will take up residence in your life? Worry or worship? |
