Reverence is defined as, "A feeling of deep respect, with wonder, awe, and love." This brings up a question: "Must a show of reverence be quiet or can it be noisy?" For an answer we can go to Luke 19.
Jesus and His disciples were approaching Jerusalem. It was just before the passover when Jesus would become a sacrifice for our sins. Many people saw this new "King" arriving sitting on a colt, an ass. And when He came nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen (Verse 37). This was reverence with noise. Therefore, reverence is an act that can be noisy or quiet. Either way it is emotional!
We must give attention to the fact that Jesus, the king of Kings, was riding on an animal normally ridden by noblemen and kings. It was not a donkey as some suppose. (See Harpers Bible Dictionary p. 76, or International Bible Dictionary p. 42-43). He entered Jerusalem on the best transportation of that day, and He came with great fanfare.
Let us focus on fact that the disciples had honored Jesus and had seen His works. Obviously, the excitement of being with the Son of God was overwhelming. Today, the people that are with Jesus also have a right to be excited. He and His works have not changed. Therefore, with exuberance we shall show reverence for Him. Some people say, "But, the devil loves a loud noise." Obviously he does; on the other hand he hates the noise of people praising God. Therefore, Make a joyful noise [a loud sound] unto God, all ye lands (Psalms 66:1).
Evaluate how crowd noise always brings attention to that which people are clamoring about. This is why the devil has tried to quiet us in our worship. Therefore, offer God a sacrifice of praise continually (See Hebrews 13:15).
Add prayer to your praise. Consider, Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching therefore with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (Ephesians 6:18)
To prayer and praise add unity. We find the result of this in the book of Acts. "And they [the believers] continuing daily with one accord in the temple, ... with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the LORD added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:46-47).
Recently, I wrote about one of many churches that has really put into practice what I have been writing about. Remember the Brownsville Assembly of God in Pensacola, Florida. They became united in praise and prayer, expecting revival. On "Fathers Day" of 1995, revival started and continues. Between then and now, in this church, over sixty-five thousand people have accepted Jesus as their savior.
Start a personal revival by following the three steps to success. Praise God, pray much and be in one mind with Jesus and His disciples. This brings His anointing and with His anointing comes a vision for His work. With excitement you will talk about the vision and others will join you.
On Thursday, October 31, I talked with Dr. Caul E. Baugh by telephone. You may remember him from a previous letter. He is a Godly scientist who operates The Creation Evidences Museum in Glen Rose, Texas. He has finished reading a copy of the manuscript, "Letter To Israel." He was impressed with the material and said that it adds more evidence to the fact that all things were created by God and are under His control.
Doctor Baugh told how the "evolutionists" are causing him great problems, and he asked for prayer. I told him that I would pass his request on to you. Please pray for protection over him, the museum, and his staff. His work to replace the teachings of evolution with the truth about our Creator must continue.