LIVESTREAM HERE

God’s Truth for Trying Times - 5/3/20

3-col-bible-1

God’s Truth for Trying Times - 5/3/20

 

We need God’s truth in trying times. Read the Scripture passage, think about what it is saying, then pray; by yourself or with your household. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly (Col. 3:16).

 

READ: 1 Peter 2:13-17

 

“Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (1 Peter‬ ‭2:13-17‬)

 

CONSIDER: American Christians are very independent. We sometimes have trouble being inter-dependent. There are even times we are tempted to be self-willed. That means basically disregarding everyone and saying “I insist on doing what I want no matter what”. The biggest problem is that it leaves God out of the picture. God is not pleased with self-willed hearts and actions, God is pleased when we seek to do His will. Notice in our passage for today that it is “for the Lord’s sake”, it is “the will of God”, for “servants of God”, to follow the Word of God. Biblical imperatives have God’s authority and conscience-binding power. We must do what God. Instead of finding loopholes and ways around the clear teaching of Scripture, instead of explaining away a clear command as outdated or inapplicable, we are to gladly submit to what God says to do, no matter what our personal feelings are.

 

THINK: What does this declare about God? What are God’s people being called to do? What assurance is given? How does the Word of God transform our hearts and lives and relationships?

 

PRAY:‬‬ Pray these verses to God as a prayer. Pour out your heart in praise to God. Pray for others. Present needs to Him.