The key Scripture for this week is: ²One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Dedicate Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.”  ³ So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. Acts 13:2-3 NLT Look at the context---"...the men were worshiping the Lord and fasting..."  If we want something new to happen in our lives, it starts with worship!

My good friend, Mark Geppert, always says that all success in the spiritual realm springs forth from an atmosphere of praise and worship.  Apparently, his saying isn't new!  Luke recorded a key instance of that reality in today's Scripture.  The men were worshiping and fasting.  As they worshiped and fasted the Holy Spirit spoke.  God communicates to His people when we worship Him, when we acknowledge that every good and perfect gift comes from Him, when we recognize that all that is truly NEW and good comes from Him!

As we gather to worship in Jesus' name later this morning, each of us has the opportunity to enter the experience with a heart of worship.  As we do that our corporate worship (the word corporate comes from the Latin word for body), will glorify God and we will provide the context for God to speak and for HIS newness to enter our lives.  Jesus promises that He is making all things new.  That newness starts in our hearts as we worship--individually or together, and as God speaks and transforms us extends to the ends of the earth.  Or at least that's His plan.  May we be found participating in the plan today!

Let's pray:  Heavenly Father, Fill us with Your Holy Spirit from this moment, through the day that we may enjoy Your grace and extend Your glory.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.