Reading: Psalm 21:8-13
It is amazing the controversy the name "Jesus" rises up in today's world. Yet, when we read of the power and strength God possesses in this Psalm, it's no wonder why the topic gets so run over. God is all-powerful and all-knowing. We can sing praises because God will conquer those who are against us and bless those who follow His will. Those who mock Him doubt His authority, yet it is sad the wrath that will one day be poured out on them if they don't turn to Him and follow His path.
We can take heart in times of feeling defeated by our enemies, just because of this reading alone. David faced endless enemies, yet God carried Him through. Don't let people get you down, but let God raise you up, protect you, and rescue you. You need only rely on Him.
When have you felt overrun by mockers, enemies, or opposition?
How are you trusting God to deliver you?
Reading: Matthew 28:1-20
While the power of Christ causes people speculate about what really happened when the tomb was found empty, it can encourage the rest of us. In a bleak time for the followers of Jesus, they are overwhelmed suddenly, by this powerful hope of Jesus rising and commissioning them to go out and share the good news. This is probably the most controversial part of the gospel story - that Jesus was powerful enough to rise from the dead. What it ultimately comes down to is whether or not you believe these words you read, or you reject them. Many have come up with theories and explanations, as we read here about the disciples stealing the body, and have spread to ease people's minds about whether or not Jesus was really God. I suppose that is up to you to decide, but when you have power on your side like what Jesus displays here and many times throughout the gospel in smaller ways, you open yourself up to a fulfilled life in His presence and guidance.
Jesus commissions us to go and share the great news with all, and though this can seem intimidating, we are promised His presence and power as we do. Take heart when the opposition comes your way, especially about your faith.
How do you react to this power? Do you believe it?
What struggles have you faced in sharing the Good News to those around you?
Reading: Exodus 15:1-16:30
No matter how powerful we read God is, we still tend to worry about things. The people went from celebrating God's great power and rescue to complaining and worrying about God providing for them out in the wilderness. We know this is human nature, yet God gives us all kinds of evidence He will come through for us. Moses and Aaron had to deal with complainers and worriers all throughout their journey in the wilderness, no matter how many times God proves Himself to them. So, God provides the people with manna, which literally means "what is it?" The people are to take exactly what they need, and no more. Those who took more lost that extra to maggots and rot. It can be hard to trust God and His provision and we live in a culture that stores up "just in case". But God tells us to trust Him with TODAY and not worry about tomorrow.
I think I will struggle with worry for a long time, if not my whole life. I'm always fretting about something, and longing to be prepared for what is coming. Yet after reading about the power God pours out and the evidence of His provision throughout history, you would think I could let some worries go. Remember God's provision both in Moses' time and for you in your life.
What is something you are currently worrying about?
How can you remember to go to God with these worries and count on Him to provide for you as you need it?
We face much opposition in life, whether it be against mockers of our faith, conflict about our beliefs, or a battle within ourselves against worries. We see great evidence throughout the Bible, however, of God's great power and provision throughout time. We can still count on Him to be with us during those times of opposition and worry. His power and provision are far greater than our battles and worries.
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