| (Copyright) by Dwight Fleming (Oroville, California) |
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| When you pray, what is your spirit saying to God? “O God, I’m a miserable wretch, not worthy of your mercy. I beg and plead with you to hear my cry and grant me this one petition to be delivered from my need [whatever it may be: healing, financial help, peace of mind, etc.].” We are all familiar with the Psalms which are hymns set to music. Yet, they are also prayers. “Thus conclude the prayers of David son of Jesse” (Psalm 72:20). David was a musician. He knew the powerful effect that music has on our spirit. David had erected a special tent or tabernacle where music was played to create a spirit of praise to the Eternal God. And it appears all were welcome at this tabernacle not just Jewish believers. At the Jerusalem meeting recorded in Acts 15, a reference is made of David’s tabernacle (Acts 15:15-19) which aided in their decision concerning allowing uncircumcised Gentiles into the church. They recognized the spiritual element that was vital in seeking God which the Gentile believers certainly shared with devout Jews. David knew that a right spirit before God was KEY for opening whatever doors that we may need God to open for us. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name. And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:15-16). Dealing with all the demands and pressures of our modern world, it can at times become very discouraging and pull our spirits down. Despite whatever problems that may be troubling us, we need to recognize that we can do “all things through Christ who strengthens” us (Philippians 4:13). It is easy to quote scripture but stirring up our spirit with just words may not always work. This is where music can sometimes help. If we come to God in a spirit of doubt rather than of faith, what do you think will be God’s response? “But without faith it is impossible to please Him. For he that comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). So, when we go to God for whatever need that we may need help with, do we believe that God is for real? Do we acknowledge His existence with praise? The One who gives us every breath of life. The One who created the universe and the bountiful earth that sustains the miracle of life. The One who watches over us as a Shepherd does his sheep. This helps us to put things in a right perspective and fills us with faith rather than doubt. Do we also believe that God will reward us for trusting in Him? Do we see the reward that we seek, or do we constantly question God’s love and mercy for us? As Christ would often say, “Be it according to your faith.” “You knew [believed] that I was an unjust wage giver, so you kept your talent hid in a napkin? You unprofitable servant.” Let’s not allow that to happen to us. Create your own tabernacle of David with inspiring music to help put you in a positive spirit while in your prayer closet. See if this makes a difference in the quality of your prayer life. It is our spiritual lifeline that we need for spiritual growth. Become a Prayer Closet Dynamo! Enjoy this music sample: https://youtu.be/x1bd3wgrhfc |
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