The Upper Room Devotional for 14th September 2023 Thursday
The Upper Room Devotional for 14th September 2023, Thursday Message by Zach Schaar (Ohio, USA)
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TOPIC: A Beautiful Song
TODAY’S READING
Romans 12:9-16
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. – Romans 12:16 (NIV)
Growing up I loved to play the guitar. While playing an instrument came easily to me, singing did not. I remember enrolling in classes with a vocal coach and attempting to learn the art of singing. Every week as the instructor plucked away at notes on the piano, she challenged my voice as she made her way up and down the keys. I longed for her words of affirmation saying, “There you go, you got every note in that octave!” And I dreaded to hear, “You are flat,” or “You are sharp.” Learning to sing was a challenging process. It not only forced me out of my comfort zone but also required constant practice. My voice had to become versatile to adapt to the songs I was singing.
In Romans, Paul tells us to live in harmony with one another. However, this is not always easy to do. When I think of all the people I have encountered over the years, there are some I have found extremely difficult to harmonize with. But as Christians that is exactly what we’re called to do — to love others even when it seems impossible.
Today I am asking God to help me to love others regardless of how difficult it may be. With a humble heart, I will repay unkindness with love, desiring to please God with a harmonious song.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear God, help us to love those who don’t always seem to love us. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I will prioritize showing God’s love to others today.
PRAYER FOCUS
Someone I find difficult to love
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