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Together in Christ: 'The Reason We Sing' — Isaiah 26:1-4 Monday, August 5, 2024 In that day, everyone in the land of Judah will sing this song: Our city is strong! We are surrounded by the walls of God's salvation. Open the gates to all who are righteous; allow the faithful to enter. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock. — Isaiah 26:1-4 NLT Key Thought... We sing to praise God and announce His triumphant and gracious work among us. [1] We also sing to encourage each other and build one another up. [2] In today's verses, the prophet Isaiah looks forward to the day when there are other wonderful reasons for God's people to sing — the day Isaiah points us to expect dawned on the first Pentecost after Jesus' resurrection. He poured out the Holy Spirit on His people, and His church was born. [3] Let's get with other believers and encourage each other by singing about God's strength available for His people, God's peace for all who trust in Him, and God's dependable and faithful presence for those of us who believe. Even more, let's find our brothers and sisters who are discouraged and encourage them with these truths about our God, our fellowship in Christ, and the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit! The apostle Paul said it this way: Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. [4] [1] James 5:13. [2] Ephesians 5:18-20; Colossians 3:16 NIV. [3] Acts 2:14-47. [4] 2 Corinthians 13:11. TODAY'S PRAYER O, God, please empower our prayer-blessing for each other and your church: May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with [us] all. [A] [Amen.] [A] 2 Corinthians 13:14 RELATED SCRIPTURE READINGS James 5:13-20 Zephaniah 3:14-20; Isaiah 51:7-12