20: The ‘Spirit of your Father’ is of course the Holy Spirit. Even today we would say the same, that he speaks through us. And yet, many seem only to claim this, but not to practice it. Does the Holy Spirit truly speak in us? We sometimes claim it because we know it is right, but how seriously do we take it? The most important thing, then, is the preparation of our hearts for his speaking.
Daily Bible Reading: Acts 9:1-10:48
Daily Memory Verse: 1 John 2:4 “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”
Daily Tidbit: Congregational singing is a more recent development in church life. Many in the past resisted the idea of singing for many reasons. Often in this day we may give those of the past reason to think their objections were legitimate. Many of us sing as if we were on autopilot. Worship takes a back seat to mindless repetition. At the other extreme, singing and music are used to set the entire tone of the service, while the Holy Spirit waits outside. Though I would not be one to argue against congregational signing, I would warn that we try to avoid these pitfalls. Singing has a purpose, and when we miss that purpose, we lose that purpose.
Praise Journal: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your strength. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for loving us even when we fail You. Thank You for being strong even though we are all so weak. Thank You for helping us to understand Your will. Thank You for encouraging us when we face what seems impossible. Thank You for helping us to try when we feel like giving up. You are so kind to us. Your help is a comfort to our souls. You guide us every step of the way. You carry us through it all. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Journal Highlights: Pray for a man who just lost his job. Pray for a woman with macular degeneration in her eyes.
Personal Journal Entry #13057