WAYS TO PRAISE: The Joyful Promise of ZION // Celebrating God's Presence

How does the reality of God's presence impact you today? This question is central  to the significance of my grandson Zion's name. Though Zion has historically been a symbol of joy and hope, today it seems its deeper meaning is lost. So join me as I talk about Zion and reflect on its joyful reality. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let's reclaim the excitement surrounding Zion and allow it to guide us into a season rich with gratitude.

*********

WAYS TO PRAISE

Zion:  Celebrate God’s Presence

“Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things. Let this be known throughout the earth. Cry out and sing, citizen of ZION, for the Holy One of Israel is among you in his greatness.” Isaiah 12:5-6 CSB

SEEK HIM: Devotion is Meeting with God in Our Own Lives!  Christ followers can rejoice because God is with us! Let’s “Seek Him” about how the truth of ZION leads us in “Ways to Praise.”

• WHAT:  What is God saying through this Scripture? God's children are citizens of a heavenly city, and, as we are on our journey there, God is with us here every step of the way! The biblical concept of Zion refers to His presence now and in eternity. ~ What is something special God has done in your life?  What is something glorious God has done in your life?
• WHY:  Why does this Scripture matter? Each of us has sadness, sorrows and pain in our lives, but the reality of Zion is not just future tense. For believers, God is with us now, and this reality can bring us joy today no matter what’s happening in our lives! ~ What about the hope of Zion encourages you today? Read aloud the six verses of Isaiah 12. What about this chapter speaks to joy and celebration? 
• HOW: How does God want us to respond to this truth?Isaiah 12 is about thanksgiving for God’s many gifts, including comfort and salvation, joy and strength. Scripture says, “You have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God... to myriads of angels, a festive gathering” (Hebrews 12:22 CSB). When earth touches heaven, the result is celebration. Scripture promises, “The ransomed of the LORD will return and come to Zion with singing, crowned with unending joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee” (Isaiah 35:10 CSB). ~ What happens to the sorrow and sighing of Zion's citizens? What are some ways you can praise God right now? 

SPEAK HIM: Discipleship is Making God Known to Others! Psalm 48 concludes, “Walk about Zion, go around her, count her towers, consider well her ramparts, view her citadels, that you may tell of them to the next generation. For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end” (‭‭Psalms‬ ‭48‬:‭12‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬). What are YOU telling the next generation about God’s presence? As you consider Zion, "Seek Him Speak Him!"

______________________

The Family Disciple Me ministry exists to catalyze devotion driven discipleship in our homes and around the world. We believe that discipleship starts with a conversation, and FDM provides free, easily-accessible, biblical resources to encourage these meaningful conversations along life's way. Sign up through our website to be "the first to know" about upcoming releases and resources (including the FDM App - coming soon!!!) You can also follow Family Disciple Me on social media.

Family Disciple Me is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry, and all donations are tax deductible. More information, blogs, statement of faith and contact info can be found at familydiscipleme.org