January 12

Genesis 21

Abraham and Sarah rejoice in the birth of the son of promise.

INSIGHT

Perhaps we do not celebrate enough – often enough or grandly enough. Perhaps we do not make enough out of the good things God does for us. Abraham made a great feast on the day Isaac was weaned. Certainly that was a cultural event. It would seem odd to celebrate the same event today. Yet there are other things we could celebrate within our culture, but we don’t. When was the last time you made a big deal out of something important? Perhaps a high school or college graduation. A successful music recital. Climbing a mountain, or running a marathon. God has created us with emotions that make life a richer experience for us. Perhaps we should celebrate more-in both quantity and quality.

PRAYER

Celebrate your personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ by giving Him your praise:
I will go in the strength of the Lord God;
I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only.
O God, You have taught me from my youth;
And to this day I declare Your wondrous works (Psalm 71:16-17).

Now pray this confession to the Lord:
Lord, You are near to those who have a broken heart,
And save such as have a contrite spirit
(based on Psalm 34:18).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. As you agree with God’s will, voice your affirmation of His Word:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
(2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

As you make your requests known to the Lord, pray for:

• The Lord’s leading in your life
• Opportunities to share your faith
• The concerns of your heart

Offer this prayer of worship to the Lord:
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen
(Ephesians 3:20-21)