Will Worship. Colossians 2:23. It may look good; it may appeal, but stop to read the scriptures and ensure what is said is correct before accepting it as truth. Not everything people say is good simply because it appeals to the flesh and appears attractive outwardly. Truth is a fundamental principle when it comes to worshiping God. Will-worship is a form of egotism that only seems good to men. A show of wisdom is only that—words without actions. It has all the answers before it understands the problems; it does not satisfy God’s just requirements, nor does it fulfill the inward needs of our souls and spirits.
Over time, it becomes offensive because the teacher appears to be a "know-it-all," but they are never available when an urgent call comes in. Soon, if we're not careful, we might become smugly self-satisfied, thinking, “I did it my way,” which is perfectly fine. Some people are humble, and we notice them because their actions and character remain consistent. Fake humility is a stretch; those who display it are often trying to impress others, seemingly to gain some advantage or concession.
There are also those who seem to take pride in all their pain and suffering. Instead of focusing on their health, they continually deepen their suffering to give the impression that it is for God they endure. They want others to compare their pain with the well-being of others, trying to show who truly cares for God. The Holy Spirit can discern “will worship” from genuine faith. He also knows why God allows sickness, whom to leave sick, and whom to heal. True wisdom and humility do not need to be flaunted. In His wisdom, God recognizes what is false or merely for show and may permit it to continue for a time.
Our flesh is sometimes deceived, but we can guard against it by applying the principles of kingdom living instead of worshiping what some see as important and expecting everyone else to follow. Do what you know aligns with God's Word; don't let “will worship” trip you up or listen to those who teach it. Paul summarizes the heresy taught at Colosse by noting it appeared impressive but lacked power; inspired by false teachers rather than God; an attempt to show humility but rooted in pride, and carried out through harsh abuse of people's bodies instead of a work of grace and love from God.
By faith, we touch, taste, and handle unseen things. Such faith sharply contrasts with rituals that encourage self-centered worship driven by human effort and will. A "worship leader" is not someone who replaces the Holy Spirit. By faith, we will not allow devotion to the wrong things or the wrong things to take the place of sincere devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ. It is important to remember that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and to misuse this body for so-called spiritual experiences is entirely contrary to God's design for believers. We are called to be progressing like soldiers in an army, pilgrims on a journey, trees bearing good fruit, buildings being constructed, students learning the truth, and a widening river. Our resources to fulfill God's purpose include being dedicated to Christ, alive in Christ, free in Christ, and victorious in Christ.