Ryan Wilhite

“Daily Surrender and Worship”

Have you ever had a moment where you felt all your burdens lifted just by worship and prayer? God did that for me at a worship/prayer night a few weeks ago, during one of the darkest days of my entire life.

Two weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend a Toby Mac, Crowder and Jeremy Camp concert, with my youngest son. I’ve always loved concerts and never thought I’d be going to them sober, until these last few years. I started a relationship with God about thirteen years ago and He has slowly helped change my heart and help me work on things ever since. 

In the beginning, I couldn’t stand Christian music. I listened to a lot of country and rap/hip-hop. Back in 2018, when I was working in the Quad Cities, I was invited to a Toby Mac concert. At the time, I didn’t even know who he was. That concert was a life changing event. God broke so many chains that night as I got to hear thousands of people worshiping together. All of the artists shared testimonies and messages and it was such a powerful experience. 

Over time, I started listening to more Christian music and now, that’s about all I listen to. I didn’t think I needed to at first, but what we fill our minds with is so important as the Bible tells us. Listening to positive and encouraging songs about Jesus has been a game changer. Now whether I’m starting my day, mowing or sitting in a tractor. Christian music is usually blaring in the background. I’ve grown to love it. 

That night as I stood in the crowd surrounded by fellow believers, something powerful happened. It wasn’t just the music that moved me, but the overwhelming sense of the Holy Spirit’s presence. I felt His power as hands were lifted in surrender, voices raised in unity and hearts aligned in worship to our Creator. It was a moment that reminded me of the beauty of worship and the joy of being part of the body of Christ. 

There’s something special about coming together with other believers to worship. In that stadium, we weren’t strangers, divided by our differences, race or political views. There was no hate or division like we see a lot these days throughout the world. We were brothers and sisters in Christ, united by a common purpose, to glorify God let the light of Jesus shine. 

The energy and passion were contagious and as my son and I sang along to the words, I realized this is just a taste of what heaven will be like, an eternal chorus of worshipers lifting praises to our King.Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them.” When we gather in His name, God is there. His presence is felt in a powerful way, not only as individuals but as a collective body. 

The Holy Spirit moves when we worship together, bringing freedom, healing and renewed faith. I’ve seen this time and time again at worship nights or in church. Whether we’re in a packed stadium for concerts, a small church or in our homes or on the farm, we have the privilege of experiencing God’s presence through worship. The Holy Spirit lives inside of us and is always available. He delights in our praises and meets us right where we are.

Always remember that worship isn’t limited to one place or moment. It’s a lifestyle, a daily choice to lift our hearts to God in gratitude and praise no matter the circumstances. And when we do He is faithful to meet us, just as He did last night. Toby talked about having a relationship with God doesn’t mean life will be easier, But He promises to never leave our side. 

He then opened the invitation if you haven’t started that relationship yet, maybe today is the day. That same opportunity is available to you right now. Here’s your reminder to let go of those burdens and the weight you’re carrying around and give it to God. 

I never dreamed I’d go to a concert and not wake up hungover and remembering nothing, feeling empty and miserable. But God! That concert experience will be another one, I’ll never forget. Continue to surrender, seek God both individually and as a body of believers, knowing that His Spirit moves powerfully among us. 

Live your life to glorify God in everything that you do and always worship Him!