Take Your Temperature

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!
Psalm 95:6 (NIV)

Did you know that you have a physical temperature and a spiritual temperature?

There are only three spiritual temperatures in the life of a follower of Jesus. These are measured not on the forehead, but in the heart. In Matthew 24:12, Jesus talked about the heart that has grown cold. In Revelation 3:16, He mentions lukewarm hearts. Then in Luke 24:32, Jesus describes the burning heart.

God desires your heart to always burn hot for Him. Romans 12:11 says, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” The word “fervor” means “to boil” or “be hot”. God made you to be earnest and enthusiastic in your relationship with Him.

So how do you measure your spiritual temperature? There is one thermometer that can not only register but also regulate your spiritual temperature: worship. The way you worship God is a telling reflection of your spiritual temperature. 

If you want to raise your spiritual temperature, the place to start is with your own personal worship of God. Your worship includes corporate expression with other believers, as well as time alone with God in prayer, Bible study, and service. 

You may feel like your heart has grown spiritually lukewarm or cool. Take time now to come to your God who is “a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). Look to the Holy Spirit who displayed His presence and power at Pentecost as fire upon each person (Acts 2:3-4). Turn your heart to Him and He will breathe fresh and powerful wind, heating up dying embers. 

Worship is your most natural response to God. True worship of God is led by His Spirit and grounded in His truth (see John 4:24). This is the type of worship you are created for and the kind of worship God desires from you. This is also the kind of worship that will raise your spiritual temperature so that your heart burns hot for Jesus.

Prayer: Dear God, Please show me the spiritual temperature of my heart. I want to burn hot for You each and every day. I also want others to see that You are worthy of all praise and worship. Help me to take the time to worship You daily in Spirit and in truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.