I once helped as a volunteer at a staff conference of a large mission where the main speaker was John Piper. He spoke on the topic of joy, and one thing he said has stuck with me even after so many years, “The essence of worshipping Christ is wanting Christ.” 

In modern-day usage, the word “worship” has become diluted to the point where we mainly associate it with singing praise songs or taking part in a church service (even called a “worship service”). Unfortunately, believers can get into petty arguments about which music styles are appropriate or what’s the only proper order of service. I’ve been in churches that almost broke up because of such disagreements. 

Even those of us on the field can get so wrapped up in the trappings of worship that we forget its essence. I suppose it’s only human to want those around us to look and sound like us, but such motives should have no place in our discipleship. God couldn’t care less about our music style—He focuses on the human heart. 

When Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman, she asked him about the proper place for worship—in our day, she probably would have asked about music, clothes, or a myriad of other things that grab people’s attention. Jesus brushed aside her question to zero in on the crux of the matter, telling her that God seeks worshippers “in spirit and in truth.” 

John Piper’s quote perfectly exemplifies Jesus’ message to the Samaritan woman. God desires people who desire Him. He wants followers whose lives reflect their love and longing for Christ. There is no worship where there is no hunger for God because, at its core, worship is desiring God above all else. 

As we teach and disciple others, let’s push to the side the expressions of worship and focus on instilling a love and passion for God—and let’s not forget to stoke those flames in our own hearts as well. Everything else, no matter how important, should take a backseat to the worship of God.