Scripture References: John 4:7-26; John 3:6-8; 1 Corinthians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

Intro: Welcome. In our "Holy Habits" series on spiritual disciplines, we explore Worship today. While some disciplines feel unnatural, worship – ascribing worth – is something we all do constantly. The question isn't if we worship, but who or what. Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well in John 4 provides the foundational definition of true worship.

Key Points:

1. Worship Defined: Biblically involves postures (kneeling, bowing) and attitudes (reverence, devotion, praise, thanksgiving). We all have preferred expressions, but true worship transcends style.
2. The Encounter (John 4): Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at Jacob's well. He moves the conversation from physical thirst to spiritual thirst, offering "living water" (the Holy Spirit) and gently exposing her relational brokenness to lead her to true worship.
3. Worship is Relational (v. 21, 23): Jesus redirects focus from place (mountain vs. Jerusalem) to Person (the Father). True worship isn't confined to buildings but is about connection with God. It must become a lifestyle extending beyond Sunday gatherings.
4. Worship is "In Spirit" (v. 23-24):
   • From the Heart: Requires genuine internal connection with God, not just external actions. An inner reality must precede outward expression (John 3:6).
   • Led by the Spirit: Involves freedom and spontaneity led by the Holy Spirit, moving beyond fear, inhibition, or just feelings (1 Cor 3:17).
5. Worship is "In Truth" (v. 23-24):
   • Honesty: Requires coming to God authentically, acknowledging our brokenness, needs, and sin, allowing Him to meet us in reality.
   • Agreement: Aligns our hearts and minds with God's objective reality – who He is, His kingdom, His Word – not just subjective experience. It's stepping into His reality.
6. Worship is Powerful: God actively seeks true worshipers (v. 23). Worship changes us and impacts the spiritual atmosphere around us. It's a weapon against darkness (2 Cor 10:4-5).

Conclusion: Jesus defines true worship as relational, focused on the Father, engaged "in Spirit" (from the heart, led by the Spirit) and "in Truth" (honestly, aligning with reality). This kind of worship transcends place and style, connects us to God's living water, brings freedom, and empowers us for change.

Call to Action:

• Cultivate relational worship daily, not just on Sundays. Connect with God as Father.
• Engage "in Spirit": Ask the Holy Spirit to help you worship authentically from the heart and overcome fear/inhibition.
• Engage "in Truth": Be honest with God about your struggles; declare His truth over your circumstances.
• Practice biblical expressions of worship (hands lifted, kneeling, etc.) to engage your whole being.
• Make worship a lifestyle, allowing encounters with God to rearrange you from the inside out.

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