Today is November 24
May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.


Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”  
 
Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 20.

22 “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23 I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. 24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

This scripture offers a glimpse of how the Spirit leads. It’s not always into wonderful experiences. Sometimes, the spirit leads us toward a steadfast followership in the face of suffering. Consider a hardship in your life, a difficulty or challenge. Is there a sense of being compelled by the spirit in your experience? Or, do you feel weak and weary in your faith? Bring that to the Lord today.
 
As you listen to the passage again, consider Paul’s determination to face the challenge that is before him with conviction, and with a sense of the Spirit’s empowerment. He only wants to finish this race, to complete this task. Ask God to give you all the need for the task in front of you.

So often, our faith grows weary and worn, and we forget what it’s like to be compelled by the Spirit on behalf of the grace of God. Or sometimes, our faith is lukewarm. The grace of God is overfamiliar. We take for granted what we have. As we end our time of prayer, would you ask the Lord to stir up your faith and your gratitude for the things he has placed before you today. Could you ask him for more of his spirit as you face the challenges ahead of you?

Music Credit:
"Anything and Everything" - Heaven & Earth (YouTube)