The Upper Room Devotional for 4th September 2023, Monday
The Upper Room Devotional for 4th September 2023, Monday Message by Sam Whatley (Alabama, USA)
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TOPIC: A Morning Song
TODAY’S READING
1 Peter 5:1-11
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. – Psalm 51:10 (KJV)
Years ago, I worked at night. It was a hectic life. I took my two children to and from school and then to sports or after-school activities. I seldom slept well; I was always grumpy and completely exhausted by the weekend. So I asked my family to please keep the house quiet until 10:00 a.m. on Saturdays, hoping to get needed sleep.
Early one Saturday I awoke to the shrill voice of my four-year-old, Andrew, singing at full volume. I bounded from our bedroom, half-asleep and irritated. But as I came to Andrew’s bedroom, his words pierced my soul. He sang, “Create in me a clean heart, O Lord, my God.” He was sitting on the floor looking up at me, his hands full of plastic toys.
As I stood there, still recoiling from irritation, my attitude suddenly changed. I told him how beautiful his song was. He had revealed an important need in my life that I had overlooked. In my haste to take care of my family’s earthly needs, I had neglected to keep my heart filled with the peace, love, and joy that only God can give. In the many years since then I have been reminded of that lesson each time I think of my son’s morning song.
TODAY’S PRAYER
God, our Parent, as we try to meet the needs of our family, help us remember that our greatest need is staying close to you and showing your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
In the busyness of my day, I will remember God’s joy.
PRAYER FOCUS
Parents of young children
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The Upper Room Devotional for 4th September 2023 Message, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More.
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