Beyond the Hype and the Bling by Marcel & Jacqueline Bruff

Beyond the Hype & the Bling.

In today's vibrant churches, it's easy to get dazzled by the "hype"—powerful music, polished preaching, and atmospheres that make you _feel_ something. But Michael W. Smith's sobering words cut through: "When the music fades and all is stripped away, you are the one who satisfies my every need." Are we chasing the "bling" of worship (the sights, sounds, emotions) or the Giver of life?

The Bible warns against substituting external excitement for genuine devotion. Jesus said, _"These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."_ (Matthew 15:8, NIV). We can love the show more than the Savior.

What's the "Hype" and "Bling"?

- Flashy programs, loud worship bands, emotional altar calls.

- Prioritizing feelings ("how it made me feel") over obedience.

- Comparing ("This church is more exciting than that one").

- Doing church for the blessings, not the Blesser.

God sees beyond the sparkle: _"The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."_ (1 Samuel 16:7, NIV).

Authentic Worship Looks Like…

Jesus distilled it: _"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind."_ (Luke 10:27, NIV). Ask yourself:

- Am I pursuing God or just the "experience"?

- Do I read Scripture as much as I attend events?

- Does my worship produce obedience ("I love God, so I obey") or just emotions?

- Do I serve others quietly, or only when it "looks good"?

Authentic worship is:

"Worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness."_ (Psalm 29:2, NIV)

-Obedient living _"If you love me, keep my commands."_ (John 14:15, NIV)

- Selfless giving_"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?"_ (1 John 3:17, NIV)

- Spirit and truth: _"They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules."_ (Matthew 15:9, NIV)

Reflection Questions

1. When was last time God—not just feelings—was the focus of your worship?

2. Do you prioritize attending church events over daily prayer/Scripture reading?

3. How do you "wound" your worship (e.g., gossip, selfishness, neglect of others)?

4. What’s one "bling" habit you’ll surrender this week (e.g., less Instagram comparisons, skip a flashy event for quiet prayer)?

Truth Check

God doesn’t need spectacle. He craves authenticity. If the music stops, crowds vanish, or praise falters—will your relationship with Him still stand?

"Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me." (Psalm 42:7, NIV) His love responds when we seek Him genuinely.

Are you ready to ditch some "bling" and deepen your worship?

Dear heavenly Father,

Strip away my love for hype and bling. Teach me to worship You—not just chase fleshly experiences. Give me a heart that seeks truth, obeys Your word, and loves others like You love me. When distractions fade, let me find You. Make my worship real.

Amen.

Marcel and Jackie Bruff

@walkgoodinchrist