Emphasis Preaching Journal

Back in pioneer days, houses and hotels were few and far between. The traveling preacher would go visiting and often he would have to spend the night with homesteaders at their lonely farmhouse. One pastor did, and early one morning he was awakened by a soft soprano voice singing, "Nearer My God To Thee." He rejoiced in the religious fervor of his host and hostess, since at least the wife began her day by raising her voice in songs of praise to God our Savior. The preacher got himself up and worked his way to the breakfast table.