Abiding in the Place of Worship

As believers, the status of abiding in Christ refers to the maintenance of an intimate relationship with Him (see John 6:56; 1 John 2:24, 28; 3:6). Worshippers can choose to abide in Christ or abide in darkness. If we abide in Christ, we dwell in a place of safety. However, outside of Christ, we expose ourselves to the plans and devices of the enemy.

Actually, the primary “place” of worship is the heart. God desires that the hearts of His children “follow hard after Him” (Ps. 63:8) and commune with Him. thirsts for the presence of God.
Conversely, the heart of the carnal-minded person who may even consider himself a worshipper is often more concerned with culture, tradition, and ritual, rather than relationship. A carnal worshipper doesn’t seek transformation nor does he or she earnestly desire the manifestation of the glory of God. This person has been distracted by the enemy and has either left the place of worship or never truly been there.

In this critical season, it’s imperative that we understand that we are at war, and the enemy of our souls wants to distract us so that he can destroy us! In John 10, Jesus contrasts himself with the thief: “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Paul makes it clear that in order to “abide” in God’s presence, which is the place of abundance and safety, we must have knowledge of the enemy’s tactics, “lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Cor. 2:11).

In this book, Dr. Earnest Pugh exposes many of the devices that have been used by the enemy to distract and derail us from the place (presence) of God.

Secondly, he encourages the heart of worshippers and worship leaders. More than ever, worshippers must understand their roles and responsibilities. For those who stand before people and lead them in worship, you must first be in your place of worship. This is imperative.

Finally, he elevates readers’ thinking as it relates to your influence as a leader. When God positions you in a place of oversight, He also endows you with insight. This only comes from spending time in God’s presence. Sight is important. When you are a leader, you must see farther than those you lead in order to guide, protect, and direct them.