21 Days of Prayer and Fasting - Barak

Psalm 95:6 (NIV) – Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.

Devotional: Barak means to kneel or bow low in humble adoration, to bless the Lord with reverence that acknowledges His absolute sovereignty. Unlike exuberant expressions, barak is quiet submission—a posture of the heart and body that says, “You are God, and I am not.” In our fast-paced, self-reliant culture, kneeling feels countercultural, yet it is profoundly liberating. It positions us to receive blessing in return, as we bless the One who is the source of all blessing. Barak deepens intimacy by stripping away pride and fostering awe, reminding us we were created by a personal Maker who cares for us as Shepherd. This reverent praise overflows into a life marked by humility, peace, and the radiant glory of a soul rightly aligned with its Creator.

When the Magi finally reached Bethlehem after their long journey, they didn’t stand casually or offer gifts from a distance. Matthew records that they “bowed down and worshiped Him” (Matthew 2:11) —a deep barak before a toddler who was the King of kings. These wealthy, educated men from the East humbled themselves on the floor of a simple house, presenting treasures that symbolized His identity: gold for royalty, frankincense for deity, myrrh for sacrifice. Their posture of reverence honored the incarnate God and set a pattern for all who approach Him: true worship begins with bowing low.

Physically kneel (or bow your head deeply if kneeling is difficult) during prayer today. Speak blessings over God: “Blessed are You, Lord, Maker of heaven and earth, for Your mercy, power, and love.”

Fast from pride, hurry, or self-sufficiency; cultivate humility through reverent postures and prayers.

Worship Song: Holy Forever (Chris Tomlin feat. CeCe Winans) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xcFM9CBiOE