5 Powerful Types of Worship in the Bible
Worship is more than just singing a few songs on Sunday morning — it's a lifestyle. But what does the term “worship” mean, and what are some types of worship in the Bible? Merriam Webster’s Dictionary defines worship as showing “regard with great or extravagant respect, honor, or devotion.” As believers of Christ Jesus, we aim to live in such a way that demonstrates how much we are truly devoted to God. So, what are some ways we can worship the Almighty God?
1. Thanksgiving
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”
A heart filled with thankfulness is a great way to lead into worshipping God. In the above verse, the psalmist invites us to participate in the gratitude and praise of our God. This can be as simple as starting your prayer time by thanking him for the blessings in your life or telling others about your gratitude for the things God has done for you. Thankfulness helps us shift our focus off of what’s wrong and onto who God is.
Whether you're having the best day or the worst, choosing to worship with thanksgiving reminds your soul that God is still good. It’s a powerful, practical way to engage in one of the types of worship in the Bible that helps us to remember who he is.
2. Sacrifice/Offering
We sometimes cringe at the thought of personal sacrifice. It’s often uncomfortable and it’s even painful at times. However, sacrifice is a form of worship.
In the 22nd chapter of Genesis, we find an obedient Abraham laying his promised son Isaac down on an altar at God’s request. Abraham couldn’t predict what would unfold next, but in an instant plot twist, the angel of the Lord tells Abraham not to lay a hand on Isaac and because of his obedience this is what happened:
“Then the angel of the Lord called to Abraham out of heaven a second time, and said, ‘By Myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will indeed bless you and I will indeed multiply your descendants as the stars of the heavens and as the sand that is on the seashore. Your descendants will possess the gate of their enemies. Through your offspring all the nations of the earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.’” (Genesis 22:15-18 MEV)
Abraham’s willingness to obey, even when it hurt, was a powerful act of worship. Whether it’s sacrificing our time, our resources, or our comfort, God still honors worship that costs us something.
3. Serving Others
“Acts of Service” isn’t just a love language — it’s a way to expose others to the love of God. Our mission here at Parkway to Love: God. Others. Mission. This is always our focus because scripture tells us that we must love God with all our hearts and love our neighbor as ourselves. This is also how Jesus said others would know we are his disciples: Because of our love (John 13:35).
Peter explained in 1 Peter 4:10 that we each have spiritual gifts, and he instructs us to use them to serve each other. He then continues in verse 11 by saying the reason for this is “in order that in everything God may be glorified.” This means that, while serving others, we are given the opportunity to worship God by being a blessing to someone else.
4. Prayer
Paul instructed the Thessalonian church to “pray without ceasing.” (1 Thes 5:17). Possibly considered the most intimate of the different types of worship is when enter the presence of God and commune with him. It’s a special time to disconnect from the world and its noise. A time to express adoration and love to God in our own unique voice. It’s a space to intercede for others or to find peace, joy, and rest.
5. Singing and Praising
You don’t need a record deal or a flawless voice to engage in this one. Singing and vocally praising is one of the most joyful and expressive types of worship in the Bible. It’s not about how good it sounds — it’s about who we’re singing to!
Psalm 47:6 says, “Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.”
Psalm 150 goes even further, encouraging us to praise God with every instrument and every breath — making precious, wonderful noise to our King in any way we can!
Praising allows us to declare who God is and what he’s done in a way that stirs our hearts and shifts the atmosphere. Whether you’re belting out your song during a lively service or quietly humming during peaceful moments, your song is worship.
Try a New Type of Worship This Week!
The types of worship in the Bible are as diverse as the people who offer them. From acts of gratitude to moments of deep surrender, worship isn't confined to a church service—it's the rhythm of a life centered on God.
So, be encouraged to try something different this week and offer a “new song” to the Lord. Whether you're giving thanks in your living room, serving a neighbor in need, or singing in the middle of church, remember: You're worshipping. You're honoring the One who is always worthy.
God is worthy to be praised, and we were created to worship him in spirit and in truth.
Let’s exalt His holy name!