One of my favorite modern hymns is Matt Redman’s The Heart of Worship. This song was born during a time of struggle for his church. The pastor decided to remove all the elements typically associated with modern services—sound systems, projection screens, the band, and even instruments. What remained was a congregation worshiping God with only their voices. During this season, Redman wrote The Heart of Worship, a song that calls us back to the essence of true worship.
The Heart of Worship
Verse 1
When the music fades, all is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring something that’s of worth
That will bless Your heart
Pre-Chorus
I’ll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You’re looking into my heart
Chorus
I’m coming back to the heart of worship
And it’s all about You, all about You, Jesus
I’m sorry, Lord, for the thing I’ve made it
When it’s all about You, all about You, Jesus
Verse 2
King of endless worth, no one could express
How much You deserve
Though I’m weak and poor, all I have is Yours
Every single breath
By Matt Redman | CCLI Song #2296522 © 1999 Thankyou Music | CCLI License #20332247
By definition, a hymn is a song of praise to God, focusing on Him rather than on us. Music in corporate worship is meant to invite us into active participation, not just observation. It allows us to express emotions and feelings, much like David did in the Psalms.
Sometimes our songs are laments, crying out to God in times of distress. At other times, they are celebrations, like Christ the Lord Is Risen Today. Or songs of praise, like Indescribable, God of Wonders, or How Great Thou Art, focusing on the attributes of God.
The heart of worship is always about Him, and it’s an invitation to bring our whole selves before the Lord in authentic praise.
The Dee Zone 