Rise up, O God, and assert your authority over the earth,
for you reign over and control every single nation.
ACTS 10:34-35 (NTFE)
Peter took a deep breath and began.
"It’s become clear to me," he said, "that God really does show no favoritism. No: in every race, people who fear him and do what is right are acceptable to him."
THE ESSENCE
God gets to decide who and what is acceptable. His decision is based on who looks to him and does right.
DAILY FODDER
Is this saying that we can earn God's acceptance by righteous living? How does the righteousness of Christ fit into God's decision? Why is Peter bending over backwards to stress that God is impartial in his decision making?
PRAYER
Merciful God, I'm grateful that you've set the standard for what is right and just, and that you decide who is acceptable. Frankly, I can't image that there is anything about me that qualifies me. I can only come into your favor and presence through the righteousness of Christ worked out through his sacrifice and resurrection. So, I'm going to stick with him and allow him to make the case. Apart from him I haven't a leg to stand on or the potential to live in a way that is right and acceptable. He is my Savior — and Savior of all who look to him, regardless of ethnicity, social standing, or history. Amen.
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
