Friday, January 26
Day 12: Honest Prayers and Authentic Praise
READ
REFLECT
David was in the middle of his wilderness when he experienced an inner transformation. At first, we read (vs. 1-6) of his complaints to God. But then (vs. 7-11), his complaints turn to praise and thanksgiving. The reason for this transformation was his honest confession before the Lord. Because he was honest with God regarding his complaints, David’s heart was prepared to experience change. As a result, he began to trust God with his complaints, and this led him to praise.
Being honest with God seems like a given; something we shouldn’t have to be reminded to do. But we often do not explicitly state to Him how we really feel. We know He knows how we feel and we assume that it is enough. We think if He really wanted to do something on our behalf then He would do it — whether we are honest or not. However, being honest with God is actually being honest with ourselves. When we confess how we feel, we are opening up our hearts to receive God’s comfort. Then we will begin to praise God. In short, our honest complaints can be the pathway to experience authentic praise.
RESPOND
Spend time in prayer, following the Upward, Inward, Outward, Upward format.
Upward: Who God is; What God has done, is doing, will do
Inward: Who you are; How you live
Outward: Intercession for others
Today’s Prayer:
Father, please forgive me for not being honest with you. I know you know how I feel, but I have attempted to hide from you. Help me to be honest with you so that I can truly experience authentic joy in Your presence.
Upward: Thanksgiving and Worship
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“A Praying Life” Conference
This March 1+2, Pathway is excited to host the “A Praying Life” conference in partnership with Paul E. Miller’s organization, Praying Life Ministries. “A Praying Life is an invitation for weary saints to come to Jesus: come overwhelmed with life. Come with a wandering mind. Come messy.” We invite you to be part of this powerful and encouraging event. Learn more or sign up HERE.