Psalm 119:130
“The entrance of Thy Words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple”
DAILY READING- – Matthew 15:1-20; Leviticus 24-25; Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
One of the most famous pieces of classical music ever written is Messiah. it was written by George Frederic Handel who is one of the most notable classical musicians in history. For classical music lovers, every Christmas the performance of Messiah is an annual tradition all over the world. Handel became a successful music composer, who composed many popular sacred and opera music. But at 52 years, Handel suffered from a stroke which incapacitated him, making it impossible for him to perform. The stroke paralyzed his right arm so that he could only play the spinet or keyboard, or conduct,. He also suffered from blurred vision. At this same time, he was also faced with a lot of financial problems. Sick, depressed and in debt, Handel almost gave up on life. But somehow, trusting in God he continued to push forward.
Shortly after these calamities in his life, he came across a piece of music, composed entirely of Scripture portions. Handel was deeply affected when he read this. It was drawn from the prophecies about the coming messiah, the birth, life, ministry, death, resurrection of Christ. Handel was inspired to compose music, based on this. Thus he began to compose what will probably become the most famous of all Christian musical works. In a surprisingly short period of time the music was composed. And when he came to composing the Hallelujah chorus of the song, he broke down in tears overwhelmed by Divine Presence. According to him ‘I did think I saw heaven open, and saw the very face of God”. When the music was first performed during the Easter season in April 1742, it virtually became an overnight sensation. King George of England who came to one of the performances, on hearing the Hallelujah chorus. abruptly stood up, in Reverence, recognizing that Christ is the King of Kings. It was normal protocol that if the King stood at any time, the entire audience would also stand up. And from that day it became a tradition even till today, that anytime the Hallelujah chorus is sang , everyone in the audience, stood in reverence to Christ. Handel could never have anticipated that this work would become perhaps the most performed piece of classical music in all of history, all to the glory of Christ.
But then, what if Handel had given up, when he was beset by sickness and troubles? What could have been his darkest night, God turned around to become the brightest day of his life. This is why you must never give up, no matter how dark the situation. Anytime we feel discouraged, we must learn to encourage ourselves in The Lord.
Psalm 119:130 says “The entrance of Thy Words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple”
The Word of God ushers light into our lives that breaks the hold of every darkness. His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. It is absence of the light of God’s Word that gives darkness room to reign. But when we are filled with The Word we are encouraged to go forward and succeed in life.
So don’t despair, no matter what it may look like, God is at work. He will give you a testimony and you will have cause to Glorify His Holy name. Where you are now is not your end, it is only a bend in the road. Though it may sometimes look as if nothing is happening, trust that God is indeed up to something. Your day is coming. Things will surely get better. With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts. Your strength will be renewed like the eagles’ and you will rise and soar to the height God has ordained for you.
PRAYER: Lord, Please help me to develop a greater appetite for Your Word,. Through Your Word, keep my life covered by your light so that there will be no hiding place for discouragement in my life in Jesus Name.
quote
Illuminate your world, for you are a star destined to shine- – WORDBITE 222.