The focus of this video is on the moments of worship that begin the divine service experience. It’s important to first note that songs in worship should be songs of worship. In these holy moments before the sermon, the focus should be fully on the Triune God, and on bringing His divine nature and characteristics to the forefront through music and Scripture. Where songs can be included that are worshipful and also in support of the message, wonderful. However, worship is the priority.

Songs like Great Is Thy Faithfulness, What a Beautiful Name, Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise, Goodness of God, Worthy of Worship, and How Great Thou Art are always appropriate in the moments of worship—no matter the sermon message or theme—as they bring clear focus to who God is, and remind us that He is our audience.

To help fix the focus on God and inspire the congregation to worship, a call to worship can be very impactful. This can be included at or near the beginning of worship and done through Scripture and/or song.

Psalm 100, Philippians 4:4, and Psalm 150 are great examples of Scriptural calls to worship, while All Creatures of Our God and King, Lift High the Name of Jesus, Come, Christians, Join to Sing, O Worship the Lord, and Doxology (Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow) are just a few examples of songs that call the congregation to worship.

Something to consider: no matter who presents the call to worship—whether it’s the worship leader, a soloist, pianist, organist, or the choir—it should always be followed by a song of worship. Wherever there is a call to worship, there should be a response of worship (note that listings of both calls to worship and songs of worship can be found on Music Companion).

Once one has come to a greater understanding and awareness of God, it’s only natural that one then feel compelled to respond out of this awareness. Songs in worship not only bring focus to the truth of who God is, they can also provide opportunities for the congregation to respond to these truths. Such responses might include praise, thanksgiving, exaltation, and adoration. Or, the response might be more subdued and humbler in nature. Songs like I Surrender All, My Life is An Offering, and Dear Lord, I Give Completely can also be very appropriate in later moments of worship, as our worship progresses toward the opening hymn.

Lastly, it’s important—and expected—that there be opportunities in worship for the congregation to participate. The word liturgy means, “the works, or participation, of the people.” As such, there should be at least one or two songs that provide an opportunity for the community of believers to express themselves in worship, and to respond to the truths of God. Of course, the congregation shouldn’t sing every song in worship, either. Moments of participation should be balanced with moments of prayer and reflection.

God is worthy of our creativity in worship. May the songs we select be a reflection of our understanding of the importance of worship, and may we continue to recognize and teach the value of these essential liturgical moments.