My impression is #1 is trying to elevate his idol; #2 is seeking refuge/relief; #3 is seeking sanctuary. My perceptions here (on #1 and #2 particularly) are highly influenced by my cultural/political upbringing. #4 is smugly pleased, although he appears ready for action in the world.

In other words, 1-3 are more/less asking for something and probably also “giving” something back - to ask is to concede inferiority/lack. That act of giving power to the “worshipped” is I think what is colloquially understood as religious worship. I just wonder if these examples are bit anemic compared to the otherwise secular use of the word as in “to worship a lover.”

If we could be a little liberal and imaginative, could we make up a story where #4 actually “worships” life because he is willing to do what it takes to act within it and fulfill life’s desires?