The Heart Beyond the Spotlight

Dearest People of my laive, let me take you on a journey—a journey not across vast lands but deep within our hearts. A journey that asks, “What is worship?” Now, don’t worry; this isn’t one of those guilt-trip sermons. It’s a story. A true story. My story.

I work with the media team in my church, which is a fancy way of saying I’m the person behind the camera trying to capture everyone’s “spiritual moments.” And oh, what a window into humanity this job gives you! You see people in their most vulnerable, expressive, and sometimes confusing moments.

One day, during a worship program, I was behind my trusty camera, doing what I do best—snapping away. In the midst of the worship, I noticed a young lady, seated near the front, casually chatting with her friend. Nothing unusual, right? But as soon as she spotted my camera pointed in her direction, it was as if someone flipped a switch. Her casual demeanor transformed instantly. She closed her eyes tight, lifted her hands, and—wait for it—began speaking in tongues. I was so stunned I nearly dropped the camera. I stared at her with a look that screamed, “Seriously?!”

When she finally opened her eyes to check if I was still recording, she caught my expression. And…she smiled! A sheepish, caught-in-the-act smile that left me thinking, “Who are we deceiving here?”

Now, I’m not here to judge her—or anyone else. But that moment planted a question in my heart: Is this really worship?

What Is Worship, Really?

In 2025, can we agree to leave behind the habit of pretending? Pretending to be “soaked in worship” because there’s a camera around. Recording ourselves with exaggerated expressions of devotion. Acting as though worship is a performance for the people around us rather than a heartfelt expression to God.

Here’s the thing: worship is not about the tempo of the song. It’s not about how loudly you sing, how high you lift your hands, or whether you’ve perfected the “spiritual gaze” for Instagram. Worship is far deeper than that.

Worship is you. It’s your heart. It’s your service. It’s how you live your life when no one is watching.

When Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, He said, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Let’s unpack that for a moment.

Worship in Spirit: This means worship is not confined to a location, a song set, or even a Sunday service. Worship flows from a regenerated heart. It’s deeply personal and intimate, a connection between you and God.

Worship in Truth: Truth here speaks to sincerity. It’s about authenticity—bringing your whole, unfiltered self before God. No masks. No pretense. Just you.

Let’s face it. God doesn’t need our performances. He’s not impressed by our “spiritual theatrics.” What touches Him is a humble heart. A heart that seeks Him genuinely, whether in public or private.

Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Think about it this way: worship in spirit means your soul is involved. You’re not just going through the motions; your spirit is alive and actively connecting with God. Worship in truth means being honest—not just about who God is, but about who you are. There’s no room for pretending when it comes to worshiping a God who knows your innermost thoughts.

The Everyday Worshipper

Worship doesn’t stop when the music ends. Worship is when you choose integrity at work even when no one’s watching. It’s when you forgive that person who hurt you, even though it’s hard. It’s when you give your time, resources, and love to serve others selflessly. It’s when you kneel in your room, unseen by the world, and pour your heart out to God.

Can we be real for a second?

Worship is actually messy. It’s tears and joy. It’s doubt and faith. It’s when you’re singing with all your might in church and when you’re just whispering a prayer because that’s all you’ve got in you. It’s not about perfection; it’s about devotion.

Here’s the beauty of worship: it’s not confined to a particular format. Whether you’re on a crowded bus or in a quiet garden, worship can happen anywhere. It’s in the choices you make daily—to love, to give, to obey, to serve.

Sometimes, worship is a bold declaration of faith in the middle of chaos. Other times, it’s a soft whisper when words fail you. It’s an unending journey, and every step you take toward God is a form of worship.

Now, let’s not forget the comic side of my story. Imagine how God must feel sometimes, watching us. I picture Him nudging an angel and saying;

“Look at this one—posing for the camera like I’m going to like their photo on Heavenly Book.”

And can we talk about the “performance worshippers” for a second? You know, the ones who suddenly develop a dramatic flair when the camera pans their way? Let’s be honest, we’ve all been tempted to exaggerate our worship for the sake of appearances at least once. But remember: God’s approval is what matters, not an Instagram like or a viral video.

Don’t be that person. Don’t worship for the ‘Gram. Worship for the Lamb. (Yes, I just rhymed. Let me have this moment. If you dey hype, please hype me well #PastorIren’sDaughter)

Let’s make a resolution this year to worship in spirit and in truth. To live lives that are an offering to God, not a performance for others. Let’s remind ourselves that worship isn’t something we do; it’s who we are.

So, the next time you find yourself lifting your hands or singing out loud, pause for a moment. Ask yourself, “Who am I doing this for?” If the answer isn’t God, it’s time for a heart check.

And who knows? Maybe one day, when you’re lost in authentic worship, I’ll be there with my camera, capturing a moment that’s real, raw, and beautiful. And trust me, that’s the kind of worship that truly shines.

Let’s worship beyond the music, beyond the stage, and beyond the eyes of others. Let’s worship in spirit and in truth, knowing that our Creator sees and treasures every genuine moment we share with Him.

Love,

Fayvourebirth