DAILY PRAYER (BY SPURGEON)
Our souls long to ignite words of fire, yet we are limited! When will we shed this earthly form that restrains our song? When will our wings carry us upward to your throne, allowing us to learn the flaming sonnets sung by cherubim above, so we may forever glorify you?
However, even these expressions fall short of your glory. We yearn to sing a new song to you. In heaven, we will lead eternal music. We will encircle your throne, rejoicing endlessly, making the waving of palms and the casting of crowns at your feet the pinnacle of our glory, our bliss, our heaven, forever and ever!
Amen.
VERSE OF THE DAY (COMMENTARY BY SPURGEON)
“Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.” (Psalm 51:15)
I am so cautious of my own inadequacy that I entrust my entire being to your care. I’m hesitant to speak until you unseal my shame-stricken mouth. How miraculously you can open our lips, causing us to pour forth divine thoughts under your inspiration!
This penitent prayer can benefit anyone whose shame over sin renders them speechless during prayer. Once fully answered, the tongue of the silent begins to sing. When vanity, anger, falsehood, or lust unseal the gate, vile deeds spill forth. Yet, when the Holy Spirit opens the gateway, grace, mercy, peace, and all virtues emerge in harmonious melodies, akin to the daughters of Israel celebrating David’s victory.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE
God’s Care for Parents of LGBT-Identifying Children*
Suffering parents of sinful children (which is ALL parents) can confidently pray to God through Christ, who gives mercy and grace to help in times of need. As parents, the mercy and truth of Jesus Christ is essential to sustain us through every trial we face.
Whatever we face as parents, we always need to pray.
And, what incredible mercy, God always hears our prayers!
One challenge that countless parents are facing today is a child adopting an LGBT identity. Many Christians aren’t equipped to think biblically about this, and so parents are tempted to despair.
But we do not need to despair when we worship a God who hears prayers.
A great resource to help you navigate your child’s adopting an LGBT identity is Shattered Dreams, New Hopes — a FREE Bible study curriculum from Harvest USA.
This study will remind you of the comfort of God and the mercy to be found in Jesus.
Here’s what to look forward to…
- Use this study in a group, one-on-one, or on your own
- Understand biblically (not just psychologically/culturally) why your child has adopted this identity
- Find compassion as you navigate this difficult season
- Discover practical guidance for moving toward your child with grace and truth (without driving them away)
- Remember the hope of Christ, powerfully working, even in the darkest of days
If you are struggling with your child’s LGBT identity, don’t struggle alone! Remember the mercy of God with Shattered Dreams, New Hope.