In our modern and contemporary styles of praise and worship one may conclude that worship is simply "expressions" during a church service setting. However, Apostle Paul makes it clear what worship is and why we should do what we do, that is, worship God.
I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--that is your true and proper worship. -Romans 12:1
From the above passage of scripture, first thing noted is when it comes to worship our perspective must change..."in view of God's mercy...." When we take time to see things from God's perspective, we will recognize His pity, compassion and love for us. Therefore, we should gladly offer our whole self to Him. Basically, we must trust Him with every aspect of our life.
Offering our physical body as a sacrifice, requires presenting ourselves as a living, breathing offering to Him for the praise of His glory. However, it is important to note that the presentation of our material (physical) body is at the command of our immaterial heart, mind (interchangeably). Our mind is like command central. This is why verse 2 says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
Consequently, you can only present your body when your mind (heart) is God's throne. If God is on the throne of your heart, your body will carry out the commands of your mind (heart).
For me, worship begins with a mindset that perceives God's mercifulness toward me even before my body performs. For example, I raise my hands because I think on His worthiness and my attitude is one of thankfulness. And since He had pity and compassion on me in my helpless and hopeless condition, being disconnected from Him, He did something for me that I could not do for myself--He saved me from self-destruction, rescued me from eternal damnation.
Having this understanding, I can live victoriously as I worship Him in spirit and in truth, which is His good, pleasing and perfect will.
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