Crazy world!

Who was it that made this happen? Who has determined the course of history? I, the Lord, was there at the beginning, and I, the Lord, will be there at the end. ~ Isaiah 41:4 (GNT)

God’s power was at work in Christ when God raised him from the dead and sat him at God’s right side in the heavens, far above every ruler and authority and power and angelic power, any power that might be named not only now but in the future. ~ Ephesians 1:20-21 (CEB)

KEY IDEA:

In spite of the craziness in our world, our powerful God is and will remain in control.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank you for raising Jesus from the dead. For me everything makes sense because of that. But I still struggle to have faith when I see how insane the world has become. I have difficulty in believing that given the direction things are going, that they will all work out well. But I am choosing to trust you anyway. Help me in my struggle. Amen.

Fairness

The poor and the needy will be treated with fairness and with justice. ~ Isaiah 11:4a (CEV)

Jesus says: God will bless you people who are poor. His kingdom belongs to you! ~ Luke 6:20b (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Don't worry so much about being mistreated. Eventually God will make things right.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank you for being fair. The world isn't fair. Life isn't fair. But you are and you will make things right. Sometimes I get really frustrated with the injustice of it all. Help me to calm down and trust you. When your kingdom is fully established the poor and needy will have a good place at the table. And I will be happy to see it. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Neighboring nations

Then the neighboring nations that have survived will know that I, the Lord, rebuild ruined cities and replant waste fields... ~ Ezekiel 36:36a (GNT)

Simeon prayed: "With my own eyes I have seen what you have done to save your people, and foreign nations will also see this. Your mighty power is a light for all nations, and it will bring honor to your people Israel." ~ Luke 2:30-32 (GNT)

KEY IDEA:

The Lord wants to get the good word out about his power and salvation to all the nations -- all people.

PRAYER:

Lord, your power and salvation are good news for all people. Thank you for calling me to be a messenger of this good news to the people around me. But I get distracted and sometimes I am afraid that your good news might not be received as good news. Please give me boldness and enough light to share. I'm going to draw everyone's attention to you. Amen.

The Kingdom

God's signs are superb! His miracles so powerful! His kingdom is everlasting. His rule is for all time. ~ Daniel 4:3 (CEB)

Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights in giving you the kingdom. ~ Luke 12:32 (CEB)

KEY IDEA:

God is the greatest king ever -- and he wants to share his kingdom with those who follow Jesus.

PRAYER:

Great King! Your kingdom is everlasting and your reign is unending. You are worthy of all honor and recognition. Yet, even with all your power and wisdom you want to share your kingdom with your people. That is a wonderful gift. But I am still too attached to the kingdom of this world to take full advantage of your gift. Help me to trust Jesus more so that I become less attached to the things that the world system offers. Continue to set me free from the influence of the failing world kingdom. I'm going to serve Christ the King -- and him alone. Amen.