A Year of Prayer: Season One Weekday DevotionalsSample

If you have ever worked in a second-hand store or received some sentimental item from a relative, you may be familiar with the practice of including a note that traces the item's origins in your hands.

Some old script lovely handwriting (perhaps near-illegible!) describes the date, the maker, or the object's significance that imbues even greater value now you know the backstory. From soup tureens to quilts to rings or funny photos, we are creatures of story who attribute great value to oral tradition.

The people of Israel were no different. The author traces the ‘origin story’ of God’s works and wonders in the Psalms. As the tradition is passed on from ‘generation to generation,’ this ensures that the people's hearts will not turn away from God.

Remembering the origin of our birth, our history with God, and the significance of all God’s works and wonders toward us is essential to placing ourselves in the story of the world. It’s essential to root our identity in the story of Christ's death and resurrection in the hope of eternity.

Don’t forget to tell all you know about who God is and what God has done for you. In this personal retelling, the world will see your note and perhaps ascribe greater value to the Lord, who came as a baby to save the world from sin. Through your testimony, who knows what traditions and changes may be birthed for future generations?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, prompt me to tell your story and envision my own in yours.

Action: What does it take to tell your story well? Think about the key moments in your history where God has really broken through. Try writing them out on sticky notes, and ask God for the opportunity to share them with someone in the coming days,