Worshiping in Wonder

There is a difference between knowing truth… and being moved by it.

In leadership, it’s easy to become familiar with the things of God. We handle Scripture regularly. We talk about truth often. We plan services, lead teams, and carry responsibility tied to spiritual things every single week. And if we’re not careful, what is sacred can start to feel routine.

We know the story. We understand the theology. We’ve heard the message before.

But somewhere along the way, wonder can fade. Wonder is what causes us to pause.

It’s the moment when truth moves from our head to our heart. When we stop analyzing and start responding. When we are reminded, not just of what we believe, but of who God is.

Throughout Scripture, worship is often rooted in wonder.

When Isaiah saw the Lord high and lifted up, his response wasn’t casual, it was overwhelming (Isaiah 6:1–5). When the shepherds encountered the reality of Christ’s birth, they left glorifying and praising God (Luke 2:20). When the women saw the empty tomb, their fear and joy were intertwined with awe (Matthew 28:8).

They didn’t just understand what God was doing.

They were moved by it.

Leaders need that.

Because when wonder fades, worship becomes mechanical. It becomes something we lead others in without fully engaging ourselves. We can guide moments without being gripped by them. And over time, that disconnect affects everything. But when wonder is present, it changes how we lead.

We don’t just prepare services, we anticipate meeting with God. We don’t just communicate truth, we stand in awe of it. We don’t just lead people, we invite them into something we are personally experiencing.

Wonder reminds us that God is not common. He is holy. He is powerful. He is present. And He is still at work.

Psalm 33:8 says, “Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!” Awe is not reserved for a moment in history, it is meant to shape our posture today.

For those who lead behind the scenes, this matters deeply.

It’s possible to do meaningful work for God but without slowing down long enough to be amazed by Him.

So take a moment. Step back from the planning. Step away from the pressure. Quiet the noise.

And remember who you are serving.

Not just what He has done, but who He is.

Because leadership rooted in wonder doesn’t burn out as quickly. It doesn’t become as mechanical. It stays anchored in something deeper than responsibility.

It stays connected to worship.

Reflection Question

When was the last time I slowed down long enough to truly stand in awe of God?