Let’s Go! FCA DevotionalSample

Pray and Sing

Rex Stump

Ready:

“Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening.”  Acts 16:25

Set:

What if our challenging circumstances have a purpose? In Acts 16, Luke shares about one of Paul’s missionary trips that was adventurous and challenging.  An incredible story unfolds as a demon possessed fortune teller is freed from a demon, the masters of the girl in anger start a riot, Paul and Silas are arrested, beaten, and placed in prison! Seems like rotten circumstances for someone who is just trying to obediently follow God’s direction!

During a challenging circumstance, what comes next?  Although they were arrested, beaten, and imprisoned for doing good, Paul and Silas were filled with joy and sang praises to God.  They were in a bad place and chained, but they still had a choice.  Someone may hurt you, rob you, and leave you but you know what people and circumstances cannot take? They can’t take away your attitude, your effort, and most importantly your salvation!

Instead of complaining, blaming, throwing a pity party, or giving up on God and the church, they did the unthinkable. They prayed and sang!  

Because Sunday is only once a week and sometimes your sport keeps you from church, we need to intentionally worship God every day.  I strongly encourage you to start your day with worship. Pray and sing.  If you can’t sing, find a song and hum along.  Be intentional about worshiping God!  Worship refocuses our attention, frees us, and energizes us with God’s Spirit!

Go:

1. What recent circumstance has left you feeling beat up?

2. Did you respond with complaining or singing?  Why?

3. What song will you pick today to be your song of worship in troubling times?

Workout:

Acts 16:16-40

Psalm 30:3-5

Psalm 33:1-3

Overtime:

Heavenly Father, forgive me for worrying instead of worshipping you.  Forgive me for shouting at the world instead of singing to you.  May your Spirit give me a heart of intentionally seeking You every day!