“Without the heart it is no worship. It is a stage play. It is an acting of a part without being that person, really. It is playing
the hypocrite.”
STEPHEN CHARNOCK
I have to consider this. Is my heart fully into the worship of my God? Do I act it out at times? Am I playing the hypocrite? These questions and more bubble to the surface as I ponder the words of this Puritan. How often do I let the circumstances of life interfere with my devotion to the Lord God Almighty? More than I would care to ponder anymore. The Puritans had such a way of self-conviction. Note to self: BarryDean; Worship the Lord with all of your heart, mind, and strength. I pray the same for you.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Upon This Rawk 
Steve
November 3, 2007 at 11:46 pm
Thanks for this.
I might use it with our church.
You are right about the puritans and their convicting power.
Thanks.
barrydean
November 6, 2007 at 12:27 am
I appreciate your comments Steve. May God be glorified in His church.
pastorsteve
November 6, 2007 at 4:58 am
Barry,
This is almost as convicting as the Scripture itself. What a great reminder of Matthew 15:8-9 and the reality of vain worship. It makes me ask: What things am I doing that appear to be spiritual while my heart is not engaged in reverence of the Lord? Either I stop doing those things or I do them after examining my heart!
Passerby
November 7, 2007 at 10:58 am
Thank you for posting this quote.
Appreciate your posts–they are real blessings.