Thursday, January 9, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: John 4

Aside from occasional concerts, the majority of Americans do not regularly sing together. The Christian church is an exception. Beginning with the ancient Jews, lifting our voices in song has been a powerful way to connect with God and each other. The words and forms have changed, but the purpose remains the same. We sing to draw us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with God.

The Psalms are a book of the Bible filled with Jewish songs of praise to God. The writers expressed their deepest emotions, joy, lament, fear, praise, and thanksgiving as a reminder of who God is and how he delivers his people.

Psalm 100:2
Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.

We see God’s people involved in song throughout the Bible. Moses praises the Lord for his deliverance from the Egyptians in Exodus 15, and the entire creation breaks out in song in Revelation 5, praising the triumph of the Lamb.

The historic church is full of hymns that taught the illiterate masses Biblical theology. For much of history, people had no access to the Bible in written form, thus hymns and songs served as a way to learn Biblical truth.

Thousands of years later, worshiping through song is still one of the most powerful ways to connect with God. Songs old and new introduce deep spiritual truths. Music gives us the words to deep emotions and longings that are often hard to express.

One of my favorite worship songs is “Abide,” by Davy Flowers. As I reflect on the lyrics, they remind me that I am completely dependent on Jesus for every breath I take. And that my eternal salvation is completely dependent on the work Jesus did on the cross. As we enter into the new year, let the words of this song remind you that when we allow Jesus to sustain us, we are truly complete. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

“Abide” by Davy Flowers

You're the way, the truth, and the life

You're the well that never runs dry

I'm the branch, and You are the vine

Draw me close, and teach me to abide

Be my strength, my song in the night

Be my all, my treasure my prize

I am Yours, forever You're mine

Draw me close, and teach me to abide

Questions:
How often do you allow your heart to connect with God through song? What songs make you feel closest to God?

Next Steps:

Take some time to listen to “Abide.” Think about the words and what it tells you about God and yourself.

21 Days of Prayer:

Day 4—Surrender

Today’s Prayer Focus: To Surrender to Him  (Romans 12:1)

Today’s Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for all you have given me: all the time, resources, relationships, and abilities. I now give them back to you. I surrender it all. I am only a steward—it all belongs to you. God, guide my actions. Help me to listen for and obey your directions. Teach me to trust you and use what you have given me according to your will. May your will be done in me and through me. Amen.

This post was written by Julie Mabus, a Whitehouse campus attendee, and a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.