Saturday Review
As we reach the end of the week, let’s pray through our prayer points one more time. Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor., do we believe that? He guides, directs and instructs us, let’s pray that He leads our sons and daughters in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Today, the scripture for each prayer point is included. Take some time to read and meditate on the truths. Keep on praying friends, God is still working, always working. He will nurture those seeds and bring growth and fruit. Trust Him.
Isaiah 9:6-7
So many voices are competing for the attention and alliance of our sons and daughters, promising life, joy, health, wealth and the like. But those voices only lead to bondage, emptiness, disappointment, and disillusion. We need to pray that our sons and daughters look to Jesus and only Jesus to be their Wonderful Counselor. He alone is wise, trustworthy and powerful enough to bring resolution, redemption and righteous freedom. He is the Wonderful Counselor who longs to be Lord of their heart and their life.
Isaiah 11:2-3
Pray for our sons and daughters that they will understand that Jesus is the ultimate Counselor, full of wisdom and understanding. Pray that they would trust Him with their burdens and challenges. Pray that they would rest in His strength and might. Pray that their hearts would desire Jesus and His integrity and fear of the Lord over the ‘bargain options’ that offer cheap counsel that cannot save them.
Psalm 32:8
Pray that our sons and daughters would lean on Jesus for wise instruction and direction. He watches over them so lovingly. He WILL counsel them, but they need to be listening. Let’s pray, too, that as parents, we point them in the direction of finding answers from the Lord and listening to His voice as they wait.
Psalm 16:7
Pray that our sons and daughters are drenching themselves in the truth of God’s word, day and night. Let’s pray that there is much in their hearts and minds that God can use to counsel and instruct them, day and night.
Psalm 73:23-26
Pray that our sons and daughters would take hold of Jesus’ hand and let Him guide them each and every day. Pray they would look for and listen to His counsel. Pray that God would be the strength of their heart and their portion forever, their Wonderful Counselor.
Pray without ceasing.
You Guide Me with Your Counsel
Psalm 73:23-26 “Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.”
Healthy people typically don’t feel the need for a counselor. It’s those who are feeling like they’re falling apart, that something isn’t right and they can’t fix it on their own. When things are going badly and life seems to be spiraling out of control, we long for someone who will listen to us and tell us it will get better. Yet, it’s then, too, that we most often feel quite alone.
We all have times when we struggle with our emotions and need someone to help us find our footing and ensure that we remain grounded. When we are faced with a dilemma we want objective guidance that is wise. And if we’re suffering loss or trauma, we need someone to come alongside us, hold us up, tell us the pain won’t always be this intense. We want someone to give us glimmers of hope in our shattered world . It is in those times we desperately want someone to hear us, affirm us and give solid, comforting advice. We long for a counselor who will fulfill all those things.
Jesus is that Wonderful Counselor who is always with us. Always. He is that strong Presence we can cling to when we’re struggling. Psalm 73 says “you hold me by my right hand”… In ancient times, the right hand was the symbol of power, control and authority. So, think about it… if God holds us by our right hand, who is in control? What is God saying by coming alongside us like that? He’s saying, “trust me, hold onto me, I’ve got this and I’ve got you- you don’t need to do this alone and you don’t need to figure it out.”
Then, Psalm 73 says “you guide me with your counsel and afterward you take me into glory.” Oh, friends, when we’re at the end of ourselves, we desperately want someone to guide us, don’t we? Our wonderful counselor does that- consistently and endlessly. He doesn’t just stand by us until we’re ‘good’, He stands by us each and every moment of every day until we are in His presence, eternally. What a wonderful counselor!
Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters would take Jesus’ hand and let Him guide them each and every day. Pray they would look for and listen to His counsel. Pray that God would be the strength of their heart and their portion forever. Pray, because this world is fighting to pull them in the other direction.
Christmas Season Challenge:
Pray for those who are grieving this Christmas season, that God would indeed hold them by the hand and guide them with His counsel. Pray that they would know His comfort, peace and joy despite the heart-shattering grief they also know too well. Pray that God would be the strength of their heart and their portion forever. Pray they would come to embrace and follow the Wonderful Counselor.
Pray without ceasing.
24/7 Counselor
Psalm 16:7 “I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me.”
Have you ever gone to bed with a dilemma or problem that needed solving, only to wake in the morning with a solution to what you were pondering the night before? Maybe you woke up with a song in your heart or a verse on your tongue that fills you with hope and you wonder how it got there. Our brains are quite fascinating, so much so that we spend a lifetime trying to figure them out! God designed them to do wonderful things that even science and doctors can’t fully explain. When you weave in the beauty and mystery of the Holy Spirit working in us, it’s amazing!
While we sleep our conscious self is, well, unconscious, but our brain and body are still very much at work. We can still hear things and our brains work to give meaning and make sense of it. And, oh how we dream!! Those thoughts and memories stored in our brains turn into stories and dramas and we wake up only to realize that while we slept and rested, we were actually quite busy. So, if that’s the case, how much more our spiritual awareness continues to be active and alive. When Psalm 16:7 tells us the Lord counsels us- even at night! It’s true!
Here is the wonderful thing about sleep. Not only does it restore and refresh our physical selves, but it works in our brains to cement the learning that took place during the day. “Your brain is making a map of the information,” — “making new connections and breaking other ones.” (1) Sleep enables our brains to lock in the information we learn and makes meaningful connections so we can recall and use that information in new and meaningful ways. Without sleep, our learning suffers and our memory falters.
Just as a scary movie stays with us long after we fall asleep and can cause bad dreams, God’s word in our hearts and minds, it is the ‘material’ He uses to encourage, chastise, and instruct us. Even at night, our heart can instruct us, as long as the ‘textbook’ is God-approved. So, what are we putting into our hearts and minds during the day that can then be confirmed and used by the Lord at night while we sleep? Friends, this is why it’s so important that we spend time in the Word. We want our minds to be consumed with what is true, honest, just, pure and lovely (Phil 4:8) so that when we sleep, our minds and hearts are moved and reinforced by the truth of God. If we are going to be receptive to God’s counsel, we need to know His word. If we want to say, like David in Psalm 16 “I praise the Lord who counsels me” we have to be a willing participant.
Psalm 119:11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
Psalm 16:8 “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.”
Psalm 119:55 “In the night, Lord, I remember your name, that I may keep your law.”
Psalm 119:105 “ Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Let’s turn the ‘night light’ on, let’s allow the Lord to move and work in our hearts and minds, even while we sleep. Our Wonderful Counselor is working 24/7 to speak truth into our lives. Can we do our part to ensure the knowledge we consume is worthy of His name?
Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters are drenching themselves in the truth of God’s word, day and night. Let’s pray that there is much in their hearts and minds that God can use to counsel and instruct them.
Christmas Season Prayer Challenge: When you see a sign that says ‘open 24 hours’ pray for the people who walk into that business. Pray that they would come to know the Wonderful Counselor who is always ready to move and work, redeem and restore.
Pray without ceasing.
NBCUniversal News Group. (2017, October 23). What happens in Your body and brain while you sleep. NBCNews.com. Retrieved December 8, 2021, from https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/what-happens-your-body-brain-while-you-sleep-ncna805276.
Who is Your Counselor?
Psalm 32:8 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Today’s prayer point is simple. Pray that our sons and daughters would lean on Jesus for wise instruction and direction. He watches over them so lovingly. He WILL counsel them, but they need to be listening. Let’s be mindful to point them in the direction of looking for answers from the Lord and listening to His voice as they wait.
Christmas Season challenge: As you listen to Christmas carols today, pray for those people on the other side of the radio, listening along. Pray that their eyes are opened to the truth and light of Jesus. Pray that when they sing these words ….
God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Savior
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy
Traditional English Carol
Or these…..
O Holy Night!
The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of the dear Savior's birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till he appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!
Song by Adolphe Adam
….that these lost ones would hear and finally realize the truth of the words they sing. Pray their hearts would be transformed and they would fall on their knees to follow after the Wonderful Counselor, Jesus.
Pray without ceasing.
The Ultimate Counselor
Isaiah 11:2-3 “The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord- and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.”
When we need counsel, we look for someone who is well-qualified, right? We want deep wisdom, excellent training, good critical thinking, excellent connections and references and deep integrity. Why? Because we’re entrusting that person with our needs, our thoughts, our vulnerabilities and our defense. We want to be able to have peace in how they advise us. We want the best.
Isaiah ensures us that our Wonderful Counselor is just that. He is well-qualified, filled with the Spirit of the Lord, the spirit of wisdom and understanding- He knows all there is to know and can provide the most insightful course of action that will always be in your best interest.
He possesses the Spirit of counsel and might- no courtroom, no judge, no government official can outthink or overpower Him. No one has authority over Him.. He is the strongest of the strong and the mightiest in the land. He is our protector and shield.
And if that isn’t enough, He possesses the knowledge and fear of the Lord and He delights in the Lord. He has unquestionable integrity. He doesn’t cut corners or cheat; He isn’t disingenuous, He is authentic, honest and exceptional in every way. He is the ultimate counselor.
Look, we’re not walking up to a booth and offering 5 cents for advice. We’re not having to track down a grimy office in a dark building to get advice from someone who seems less than trustworthy. We’re not even needing to check references, track records and work history. Our Wonderful Counselor is the finest God provides because He is God Himself. Why should we scurry around looking for ‘others’ or substitutes or a ‘bargain option’ when all Jesus is and will do is ours because we are His child?!
Today, let’s pray for our sons and daughters that they will understand that Jesus is the ultimate Counselor, full of wisdom and understanding. Pray that they would trust Him with their burdens and challenges. Pray that they would rest in His strength and might. Pray that their hearts would desire Jesus and His integrity and fear of the Lord over the ‘bargain options’ that offer cheap counsel that cannot save. Pray that they don’t run themselves ragged looking everywhere else for what is only, completely found in Jesus.
Christmas Season challenge: when you see a ‘sale’ advertisement stop and pray for those who are looking for answers and counsel in every place but in Jesus. Pray that their eyes would be opened to the deception and that they would be protected from ‘false advertising’.
Wonderful Counselor
Isaiah 9:6-7 “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”
What is a counselor? We often think of those who offer wise advice or guidance. Perhaps we opt to see a counselor when we’re facing a life crisis or struggling with difficult emotions. That individual serves as a sounding board and source of direction and boundary for us in those times when we can’t seem to find our way.
Schools have Guidance Counselors who are trained and equipped to provide direction on next steps in education. But they also serve to provide resources and support for students in crisis or comfort when there is a tragedy.
In the legal system, attorneys are often called counselors because they guide their clients through the legal process and help them navigate the intricacies of the law that otherwise they might not understand or possess the expertise to manage successfully. They offer advice, protection and defense.
Look at the many uses and examples of ‘counselor’ in scripture:
Moses’ father in law counseled him to be the representative to God for the people of Israel, to stand before God on their behalf and be an example to them of how they should live, according to God’s commands (Exodus 18:19). Jesus shows us how to live.
Counselors help establish purpose and wise counsel helps plans succeed. Proverbs 15:22 “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” God is the ultimate wise counselor and His plans will always succeed.
Proverbs 19:21 ”Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Isaiah 46:9-10 “Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’”
Wise counsel brings Joy. Proverbs 12:20 “Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.” Friends, Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, brings joy, light and life.
There are so many examples in scripture, we could go on for days! When scripture calls Jesus a “Wonderful Counselor” God is showing us that Jesus, the promised Messiah, is all of these things, and more!! His birth brought spiritual wisdom and the light of the knowledge of God to a darkened, dying world.
Do you need someone to listen to your heavy heart? Jesus is the Wonderful Counselor who will listen and encourage with words of life.
Are you searching for direction in life? Jesus can point the way and His navigation is always perfect.
Are you in trouble and need someone to come to your defense? Jesus is the best Counselor you can have who will wield wisdom and powerful truth to defend you.
Are you accused or held captive? Jesus is the counselor who can loose the chains of deception and lies and bring freedom with God’s truth.
Friends, there are so many voices out there competing for the attention and alliance of our sons and daughters, promising life, joy, health, wealth and the like. But those voices only lead to bondage, emptiness, disappointment, and disillusion. We need to pray that our sons and daughters look to Jesus and only Jesus to be their Wonderful Counselor. He alone is wise, trustworthy and powerful enough to bring resolution, redemption and righteous freedom. He is the Wonderful Counselor.
Christmas Season Challenge: pray for those who are incarcerated over the holidays, yes, pray for those in prison, that they would come to know Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor and would find true freedom in their hearts and minds.
Pray without ceasing.
Sunday Worship: Light in the Darkness
The blasts of chill December sound
The farewell of the year,
And night's swift shadows gath'ring round
O'er cloud the soul with fear;
But rest you well, good Christian men,
Nor be of heart forlorn;
December's darkness begins again
The Light of Christmas morn.
The welcome snow at Christmas-tyde
Falls shining from the skies:
On village paths and uplands wide
All holy-white it lies;
It crowns with pearl the oaks and pines,
And glitters on the thorn,
And purer is the Light that shines
On gladsome Christmas morn.
'Twas when the world was waxing old,
And night on Bethlehem lay,
The shepherds saw the heavens unfold
A light beyond the day;
Such glory ne'er had visited
A world with sin outworn;
But yet more glorious Light is shed
On happy Christmas morn.
Those shepherds poor, how blest were they
The angels' song to hear!
In manger cradle as He lay,
To greet their Lord so dear!
The Lord of Heaven's eternal height
For us a Child was born:
And He, the very Light of Light,
Shone forth that Christmas morn!
Before His Infant smile afar
Were driven the hosts of hell;
And still in souls that childlike are
His guardian Love shall dwell:
O then rejoice, good Christian men,
Nor be of hear forlorn;
December's darkness bring again
The Light of Christmas morn.
Cline, N. (1928). Lyrics of Light and Life: Light in the Darkness. In Christmas carols (pp. 57–59). essay, G.G. Harrap & Co. Ltd.
Saturday Review
It’s Saturday - a great day to spend a little time going back through our prayer points for the week. As we ponder Jesus, the Light of the world, let’s pray that we love Him well and reflect Him effectively to others.
As time grows short, we must be diligent to pray that our sons and daughters know and pursue the truth of Christ. Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters have this precious relationship and an eager desire to learn and grow in their faith. Let’s pray they have a living hope that compels them to share Jesus with others gently and respectfully. Pray they are salt and light.
Pray that our sons and daughters would have a true, godly sorrow that would bring repentance in earnest. Pray that they would be eager to live in such a way as to strongly defend their beliefs. Pray that they would be indignant, alarmed at what they see this world doing and would have a longing and concern to see God’s justice done. Pray that they stand strong in their faith and would defend the gospel effectively.
Pray that our sons and daughters realize, without a doubt, that Jesus is the Light of the World and in Him they will find life, redemption, forgiveness and purpose. Pray that they will gain an eternal perspective because Jesus’ light dawns in their hearts and minds.
Pray that we, our sons and daughters and our brothers and sisters in Christ choose to shine God’s light with boldness and we take hold of every opportunity to share His light and life with others.
Pray that our sons and daughters would let God shine His light in their hearts, enabling them to see and understand the Truth of scripture, know the transforming power of the gospel and embrace the power to reflect Jesus to the darkened world around them.
Pray without ceasing.
Reflecting the Light
2 Corinthians 4:6 “For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
When God first said “Let light shine out of the darkness”, it was literally at the dawn of time. The earth was without form and darkness was everywhere. There was no land, no animals, no people. Genesis 1:1-5 says “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.” Light was at the very forefront of God’s work of creation and when He spoke light into existence, it overcame the darkness and illuminated God’s handiwork.
But God’s amazing work of creation at the beginning of time wasn’t the only time God transformed something encompassed in darkness into something filled with light. When God made His light shine in our hearts, it pushed the darkness away and illuminated the Truth of the gospel and God’s love for us and we became a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” God spoke light into our lives through the transforming work of Jesus. “God made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
What is God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ? We have never seen the face of Christ, but God’s given us so many beautiful descriptions in scripture and so many moments in our own lives that, if we look carefully, we can see glimpses of His glory. Consider how many times God’s glory was displayed in the face of His Son…
Jesus as a newborn babe, in the manger, surrounded by animals and shepherds displayed the glory of God. (Luke 2:1-20)
Jesus, the infant son, being held and loved by his mother, who gazed on His face and saw the very glory of God in her arms. She took it all in and was full of wonder at the miracle she held close.
Jesus as a 12 year old, sitting in the Temple, listening and learning, asking questions and enthralling those around him with his deep wisdom and knowledge, displaying the glory of God. (Luke 2:41-47)
Jesus and Nicodemus, sitting on the rooftop at night, while Jesus shared the Truth of God’s love and light with Nicodemus. “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.” (John 3:19-20)...and later scripture would let us conclude, Nicodemus believed. Oh the glory of God that He saw in Jesus, the glory that led him to believe the Truth.
Have you held a newborn? Have you watched a child learn? Have you had deep, soul-filling conversations that draw you to the cross? If you have, friends, then you’ve seen glimpses of His glory reflected.
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s not be distracted by the gifts, the pageantry, the sparkle, but let’s be drawn to look intently into the face of Jesus. Let’s let God transform our hearts and minds by the light of His truth so that we can reflect His glory even more. 2 Corinthians 3:18 “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Today, pray that our sons and daughters will be drawn to let God shine His light in their hearts, enabling them to see and understand the Truth of scripture, the transforming power of the gospel and the power to reflect Jesus to the darkened world around them.
Christmas prayer challenge: when you look in the mirror today, pray that others would see Christ reflected in you and would be drawn to the light He shines from your words, your actions and your life.
God is working and our prayers are never unheard or unanswered.
Pray without ceasing, friends.
The Light: Darkness Has Not Overcome It
John 1:4-5 “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
Darkness has no power over light. Think about that. If both are present, the light always wins. If the light recedes and disappears, the darkness will dominate. But as soon as the light arrives, the darkness is powerless. It cannot overcome the light. Light casts no shadow. Think about that.
When Jesus was born, the presence of God was manifest in the darkness of this sin-filled Earth. His light was evident and began to transform the lives of those around Him. Once they were impacted by His light, His life, His Presence, they were never the same. Though darkness was present, it could not overcome the Presence and light of Jesus. Though Satan tried, he could not defeat Jesus. The light was, and is, more powerful than the darkness.
We don’t often give thought to prepositions, but in John 1:4, that first word is significant. It represents Jesus. IN Him was life. Strong’s defines “in” as “a primary preposition denoting (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality (medially or constructively)”(1) Jesus was the origin of and the intermediary and the instrument through which men could have life and be reconciled with God. Isn’t that profound and beautiful?
The life that Jesus brought was the light of all mankind- the truth of God and the power to, understand it. When someone shows understanding, we use the idiom that a lightbulb came on for them, or the lights went on. That idiom is a way to describe that moment when someone shows a cognitive connection with the information or knowledge being shared. Jesus was the light of all mankind, bringing the ability to understand God’s plan of salvation to their darkened minds and spirits. Some embraced the light while others mocked it. Yet, it was there for everyone. Light=life, knowledge, understanding, wisdom. Darkness=death, darkened minds, foolishness.
The light of Jesus shines in the darkness and the darkness has not, and will not, overcome it. Despite the fact that this world continues to grow darker, God’s light remains and will continue to shine. His presence in our lives means we are representatives of His light for as long as He allows us to be here. At some point, Jesus will call us home, whether by reaching the end of our life or by rapture, when He catches us away to be with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).
Time is short, friends. Will we choose to live with conviction and be intentional in how we represent the Lord? Today, let’s pray that we, our sons and daughters and our brothers and sisters in Christ choose to shine God’s light with boldness and that we take hold of every opportunity to share His light and life with others while we have the time to do so.
“Jesus, when you came as a baby, this world had no idea how Your presence would shake the darkness and transform the relationship between God and man. You became Immanuel- God with us. Jesus, thank You for loving us so much that You chose to become one of us and so bring You light and life into this dark world. Thank you, not only for living, but for dying on our behalf. Your sacrifice made a way for us to be reconciled with You. Lord, I pray that you would help us to live with conviction and clarity, so that Your light in us is visible to those around us. Help us to live out Matthew 5:16 “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” I pray for (name) today that You would work in their heart and mind. Lord, bring them back to the very foundation of their relationship with You. Strip away anything that would distract them or keep them from following faithfully. Surround them with relationships that encourage them to walk in the light of Your life and truth. Lord, keep the darkness at bay. In Jesus name, amen.”
Today’s Christmas Season challenge: tonight, when you pass by a home with Christmas lights shining in the darkness, pray for that family to come to know the Light of the world, Jesus.
Pray without ceasing.
G1722 - en - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1722/kjv/tr/0-1/
The Light of the World
Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned.”
As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth this month, we are going to focus on the names of Jesus spoken in prophecy, mostly those mentioned in Isaiah 9:6. Each day we’ll have a Christmas Season prayer challenge in addition to our prayer points for our sons and daughters. But let’s start with Jesus as the Light of the World and how that speaks to our need and His provision.
When we think about light, we might consider how our sun gives such radiant light, that nothing can really compare to it. When we wake up and see the sun is out, it illuminates everything and we can see clearly. Oh, we’ve created artificial light that is powerful and pierces the dark, yet it can never match the fullness nor the comprehensive light provided by the sun. Have you ever driven by a highway crew working at night? The powerful lights pierce the darkness, yet they are no comparison to daylight. They still do not offer the fullness of light that daytime brings. They just cannot reproduce that all-encompassing light that drives away the dark. Any other light is just an insufficient, incomplete imitation that can’t even come close. The daylight brings everything into perspective and drives the dark away. That is a beautiful picture of Jesus and the spiritual freedom and release that He brings. Jesus is the Light of the World.
When scripture talks about “People walking in darkness”, we can picture it. People walking slowly, unable to really see what is around them, perhaps stumbling or walking without purpose.. In the darkness there is danger, obstacles and pitfalls that cannot be seen. The darkness hides those with ill intent, wanting to do harm or commit crime. Darkness itself is a metaphor for everything evil, for everything associated with Satan.
Strong’s Concordance defines darkness ‘hosek’ in the Hebrew, as “darkness, obscurity, misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow and wickedness.”(1) There is nothing and no one in this world that can conquer that list. No one but God. Why would we think otherwise? Well, that’s part of the deception of the Enemy. He leads us to believe we can find light, meaning, happiness, restoration, life, wisdom, joy and goodness in anything but Jesus. That’s the great lie and that’s part of the darkness itself.
So when scripture says “People walking in darkness” it’s a very apt metaphor that gives a clear picture of what the human spiritual condition is without Jesus. Without Christ, there is no light; there is no ability to see and perceive spiritual wisdom and no way to have spiritual freedom. But scripture doesn’t just leave it there, it continues saying, the people walking in darkness have seen a great light…. What a powerful, hopeful statement! Jesus is the light of the world and He alone came to shine into the darkness and redeem those wandering without hope and without light. “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light (Jesus).”
As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, let’s ponder the significance of His entry into this world and what His presence brought to all of mankind. He chose to leave heaven and enter this sinful world so that He could bring light and life to all who would believe. John 8:12 “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.””
Friends, today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters realize, without a doubt, that Jesus is the Light of the World and in Him they will find life, redemption, forgiveness and purpose. Pray that they will gain an eternal perspective because Jesus’ light dawns in their hearts and minds. And today’s Christmas Season challenge? Choose one person at random, maybe at a traffic light sitting in the car ahead of you, or standing in the checkout line at the store and pray that they would come to know Jesus as the Light of the World, their Savior and Redeemer.
Pray without ceasing.
H2822 - ḥōšeḵ - Strong's Hebrew Lexicon (kjv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h2822/kjv/wlc/0-1/
Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow
2 Corinthians 7:10-11 “ Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done…”
Do you ever feel overwhelmed, wishing that suffering would end and the unkindness, injustice, and cruelty of this world would be brought to justice? Is your heart ever heavy over the damage sin causes? Friends, that is mourning over sin and it’s Godly. If those things don’t bother us, then that’s cause to question our hearts and our alignment with God’s principles. But when they DO bother us, it’s not a guilt over our own sin, but a sorrow in our hearts over just how lost this world is... they don’t know Jesus. We need to encourage our sons and daughters with these words. There is the danger that the grief of this world could steal our joy and dominate our thoughts. Take every thought captive.
Perhaps the greater question is, what does that sorrow motivate us to do? Do we spend time arguing our principles with others, trying to solve things here and now with politics and other divisive arguments? Maybe we struggle with a compulsion to make it clear to others that we are right and they are wrong (yeah, that always works well….) 2 Tim 2:23 “Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” Friends, that’s a worldly attempt to solve a spiritual dilemma.
We need to take a step back to see the bigger spiritual picture and understand this is all headed in the direction God ordained… at some point, things here will all unravel. Sin is a terminal condition. It leads to death...and everyone is afflicted. We cannot infuse enough ‘good’ into this world to reverse what God ordains as the end result. That’s not to say we abdicate any responsibility to effect change, but it is a checkpoint to ask ourselves, what kind of change are we trying to bring...and how?
We can and must share the hope we have in Christ. I Peter 3:15 “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” We have to remember, this world is not our home, we are not destined to live here for eternity.
Maybe we should ask, “do we even have godly sorrow?” If we can’t answer that with confidence, it’s time to take inventory in our lives and check our hearts and our priorities. If we’re truly possessing godly sorrow, it will manifest itself in an eagerness to purify ourselves- to ensure we are blameless in how we live. If we have godly sorrow, we will be indignant…not pleased with ourselves and how well we argue our points, but frustrated at the lack of reverence and obedience to the Lord and we’ll be moved to share how He can redeem. We’ll be alarmed, having a true fear for the eternal condition of those who don’t know the Lord. We’ll be motivated with a deep longing to see others come to Christ. We’ll act with a zeal and fervor that indicates our lives are committed to something more than what this world can offer and we’ll have a burning desire to see God work justice against those who have done evil against others and scorned God and His Lordship. Do we long for God’s justice or are we hesitant?
Friends, we need to pray for our sons and daughters. They’re living in a world that pressures them to compromise their values and that would steal their joy and passion for Christ. Let’s pray that they would have a true, godly sorrow that would bring repentance in earnest. Pray that they would be eager to live in such a way as to strongly defend their beliefs. Pray that they would be indignant, alarmed at what they see this world doing and would have a longing and concern to see God’s justice done. Pray that they stand strong in their faith and would defend the gospel effectively.
Pray without ceasing.
Sharing Your Treasure
I Peter 3:15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
When our kids were little, it’s likely they had a ‘treasure’ in a box or special spot somewhere. If it was a recent ‘discovery’ or acquisition, they probably kept it close. They were eager to show us and would maybe let us touch it, or even hold it, but it quickly came back to them for safe keeping. They guarded it carefully because it was precious to them. They would excitedly tell us all about it and their eyes would sparkle with excitement. It may have inspired them to learn more about that item and to seek out knowledge, whether in books or the internet, to find information that would help them understand it even better.
Oh, that’s what Jesus should be to us, friends- a treasure that we hold close but are excited to share with others!. Our relationship with Him should be our most precious possession that we guard carefully but want others to enjoy, too! Our eyes...and our lives, should sparkle with joy and light, enough that others will want to know what we have and how they can have it too! Our love for Jesus should compel us to want to know HIm more and learn His word so we can understand Him better.
As time grows short, we must be diligent to pray that our sons and daughters know and pursue the truth of Christ. Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters have this precious relationship and an eager desire to learn and grow in their faith. Let’s pray they have a living hope that compels them to share Jesus with others gently and respectfully and that they are ever ready to give an answer for that hope they hold. Pray they are salt and light.
Pray without ceasing.
I Surrender All
Ah, Sunday. A day of focused worship. A day of rest. Today, spend some time in praise and worship of our Lord. Be refreshed in His Word. Sing to Him. Let your worship be a fragrant offering to the Lord.
All to Jesus I surrender,
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.
Refrain:
I surrender all,
I surrender all;
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Humbly at His feet I bow;
Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
Take me, Jesus, take me now.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
Truly know that Thou art mine.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me.
All to Jesus I surrender,
Now I feel the sacred flame;
Oh, the joy of full salvation!
Glory, glory, to His Name!
Judson W. Van DeVenter, 1896
Saturday Review
Wow, we covered a lot this week, didn’t we? It’s always good to go back and review. Repetition isn’t unfruitful, it’s necessary for learning and reinforcing what we know. God never tires of hearing our prayers. Let’s go to Him once more with this week’s prayer points.
Pray that our sons and daughters choose to embrace Jesus and live in His light.
Pray they would not be deceived by the Enemy who masquerades as light but leads people to a life of darkness, separated from God.
Pray that they live out the truth in authentic, visible ways that would clearly show Whose side they are on and they would do it without compromise.
Pray that our sons and daughters are convicted to Love the Lord their God with all their heart and love others in a godly way as well.
Pray that they obey his word, and that love for God is truly made complete in them.
Pray they will live as Jesus did.
Pray that our sons and daughters would cling to life in Christ and would avoid those sins that would damage their relationship with God.
Pray protection over and around them.
Pray for discernment and a submissive spirit.
Pray that our sons and daughters cling to the truth of scripture and weigh everything they hear against the Truth.
Pray that what they’ve heard from the beginning remains in them and that God’s Word continues to stay rooted in them, deepening their knowledge and understanding of Jesus.
Pray that our sons and daughters would walk faithfully with the Lord and would be unashamed when He returns…and while we’re at it, let’s pray the same would be true for believers around the world. Jesus is coming…soon.
Pray without ceasing
And Now, Dear Children, Continue in Him
1 John 2:28-29 “And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. If you know that he is righteous, you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him.
When He appears…. can you imagine? When Jesus appears, where will we be? Maybe the better question is, what will we be doing? Will He find us faithful?
Oh how we want our sons and daughters to walk faithfully with the Lord! That’s our heart’s cry, isn’t it? And when Jesus returns, we want to be confident that our sons and daughters would be unashamed at His coming, standing boldly for Christ, eager to be in His presence.
Today, let’s pray 1 John 2:28-29 over our sons and daughters and as we pray, let’s put their names into the scripture to personalize it.
“Heavenly Father, I pray that now, and always, (name), would continue in Christ, so that when he appears (name) may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. If (name), knows that he is righteous, they know and understand that everyone who does what is right has been born of him. I pray that (name) would live in such a way that others would see evidence of their new birth in Christ and a life that is committed to righteousness. I pray that (name) would walk with You faithfully, not compromising or wavering in their commitment to You and Your word. Help them stay the course and would walk carefully in Your path of righteousness. I pray that (name) would be eager for Jesus’ return and would be unashamed, ready to stand with Him in glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Pray without ceasing.
Truth and Lies- Know the Difference
Today, in America, we celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s a time to pause, gather with family and friends, feast on traditional foods and family favorites, and be thankful. I’m thankful for all of you who faithfully follow Join the PAC Prayer! What started as an occasional ‘encouragement’ to others on Facebook has grown into a global community of parents and loved ones praying for their sons and daughters. It’s an amazing community of brothers and sisters in Christ and a powerful, praying force!. It is a joy to connect with you and to see God moving and working. I’m grateful for the opportunity to encourage you and pray that God uses each of us to impact others for His Kingdom! From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!!
1 John 2:21-26 “I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—eternal life. I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray.”
Smooth talkers. We see them everywhere. Years ago, they were often called ‘Snake Oil Salesmen’ because these people would peddle remedies that were acclaimed to cure every ailment. Most often, however, it was a concoction of colored water that did nothing but cost the buyer precious money that they couldn’t really afford to spare. Fast-forward a century and the snake oil salesman became the used car salesman, telling the buyer whatever he needed to hear in order to sell the car. Deception and falsehoods were all part of the game. Integrity was not part of the job description. Today, smooth talkers are not just limited to the used car lot. You see them on TV, you find them at your front door selling utility plans, you also find them in church or other ministries. Friends, these people are not out to point you to Christ, they’re out to gain followers who will financially support them in the way they think they should live. They are slick, smiley, appealing, and peddle a message that is just a bit ‘off’ from scripture, but close enough to fool the unwary.
John warns us that we need to be mindful of the truth. Yes, we know what scripture says, but are we paying particular attention to what that individual or ministry says and how it aligns with scripture? If something is a little ‘off’ that’s a big indication that something is not right. Don’t dismiss the stirring of the Holy Spirit in your heart, friends!! If you feel uneasy in your spirit, it’s likely there is something very wrong with the message you’re hearing. Be alert!!
Satan has the mighty power to deceive. And he does. If he deceived the only two humans living, who daily walked and talked with God in the garden, face to face, imagine what he can do today?! We have to be on our guard. It doesn’t matter how genuine someone sounds or how friendly and caring they are. It doesn’t matter how many followers they have.. If their message is not scriptural, it’s deception and we need to run the other direction!!
Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters cling to the truth of scripture and weigh everything they hear against the Truth. “No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you.” Let’s pray that what they’ve heard from the beginning remains in them and that God’s Word continues to stay rooted in them, deepening their knowledge and understanding of Jesus.
“Father, my heart’s desire is that (name) would remain true to Your Word and the authenticity of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Guard them against the deception that is so prevalent around us. Holy Spirit, help (name) to be sensitive to Your promptings and I ask that You would give them pause when they hear a message that is deceptive. Give them Godly discretion to know when a ‘good-sounding’ message is not Biblical. Give them swift feet to walk away from those people and ideas that would draw them away from Christ. Thank you for the Truth of Your Word and that it is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. I pray that (name) would have a strong desire each day to spend time in Scripture, learning about You, gaining wisdom and understanding that would protect them from the enemy’s lies. Thank you for Your love and protection, Lord. I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.”
Down the Garden Path
1 John 2:15-17 “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
What was the original sin, committed by Adam and Eve? It was these, the lust of the flesh, the cravings of the body and senses, “Oh, that fruit looks sweet- I bet it tastes good, if I could just try it...take a bite, satisfy my craving….” It was the lust of the eyes and mind- the knowing better than, “And, really, I’m sure God didn’t mean what He said, right? Think about it… why would He deny us something that He placed right here in the garden for us to enjoy?! It only makes sense that we should be totally fine. And, really, we’re smart, right?” And the pride of life, not needing God because we know better… “We would be just like God, knowing good and evil, why, we would be even more compatible with Him- we deserve to be like Him!” Interestingly, Strong’s Concordance defines the pride of life as “an insolent and empty assurance, which trusts in its own power and resources and shamefully despises and violates divine laws and human rights, and an impious and empty presumption which trusts in the stability of earthly things” (1) Ah, knowing better than God…a surefire attitude that ruins any life.
It boils down to these: what we crave and desire, what we see with our eyes and think we know and understand in our minds and the prideful arrogance that tells us we are able to control our own destiny, we know better than God. It’s a full and total rebellion against God and His rightful Lordship in our lives. It’s the very trap with which Satan delights to ensnare us….since the beginning of time.
John is warning us of the lures and traps because not much has changed. Sin is sin. Yet, people still resist the warning, why? (go back are re-read the previous two paragraphs). We have a sinful heart that rebels against God. The desires and cravings that lead us down that garden path are the very same that lured Adam and Eve, the first man and woman living in the perfect garden in the Presence of God, into abandoning their perfect relationship with God.
Oh that we could protect our sons and daughters from these traps!! They lead to death. They ensnare us in darkness. They rob us of joy and purpose. Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters would cling to life in Christ and would avoid those sins that would damage their relationship with God. Pray protection over and around them. Pray for discernment and a submissive spirit.
“Father, I pray that you would control the cravings of life. Do not allow (name) to long for thing that are ungodly or sinful. The lust of the flesh needs to die and the longing for the Spirit needs to be strong. I pray that you would help (name) to hunger and thirst for righteousness, not for things that would satisfy their sensual desires. Put a guard on (name)’s eyes. Keep them from craving things that would not support their relationship with You. Don’t let them see things that would distract them from You or that would put thoughts and desires in their mind that would war against Your will for them. I pray that they would guard their eyes and thoughts so that what they fill them with are good and Godly, not dark and sinful. Lord, I pray that (name) would be fully submitted to You, recognizing their deep need for Your lordship in their life. Let them daily surrender to You so that You are Who they trust in, and not themselves. Let them lay their will aside to follow after You with their whole heart, their whole mind and with all their being. I pray that they would seek to do Your will and bring You glory in everything. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Pray without ceasing.
G212 - alazoneia - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g212/kjv/tr/0-1/d
The Proof is in the Living
1 John 2:3-6 “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”
Actions speak louder than words. The truth of what we say is evidenced in how we live. Someone can say “I’m a runner, I love to run!” But if you never see them actually running, you might question the truth of that statement. Someone might tell you they’re on a diet, but if you see them eating anything and everything all the time (not just on a special occasion, which is totally understandable…) you may question whether they really are on a diet. If someone tells you they are a rancher, but they have no ranch, no cows or horses, and live in the city, you likely would question the truth of the statement, or wonder if there is something you’re just not seeing.
Our relationship with Christ and the authenticity of our faith is evidenced by the life we live. The Jews in Biblical times were driven to follow the law of Moses without wavering and the care they took to do so was powerful. The Pharisees were so driven, they took it upon themselves to monitor how those around them upheld the law. So when an expert in the law asked Jesus, ‘what is the greatest commandment”, there was much at stake for the listeners...and for Jesus. It was a baited question.. And what was Jesus’ response? Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39 Love God, love others. The two greatest commands.
Are we living in such a way that we demonstrate this? Do our lives reflect Jesus’ presence? Friends, we might find that loving God isn’t difficult, but loving others, ALL others, goes against our grain. God didn’t tell us to withhold love or only offer it to those who are deserving. He tells us to love ALL others. No, this doesn’t mean we approve of lifestyles and actions that are not in line with His word. But it tells us to love them despite those things (isn’t that what God did for us?!) And what is love? It’s not a feeling, friends. Love is an action. “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal…If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1,3) Unless we act and are driven by love, we are just ‘noise’ that the world drowns out. Our actions and words must be motivated by our love for Christ and be demonstrated in our love for others.
So, how should this look? Well, look at how love is defined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient
Love is kind
Love doesn’t brag or boast (it’s not about itself...it’s looking to the needs of others)
Love is not arrogant or proud
It doesn’t dishonor others (If we love Jesus, we will not dishonor others, even if they think, act or live differently than we)
Love is not self-seeking
Love isn’t easily angered
Love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs- (no grudge list)
Love doesn’t delight in evil (even if we think the ‘other’ deserved it, Jesus loves them, we should too)
Love rejoices with the truth
Love protects
Love trusts
Love hopes
Love perseveres.
The proof of our faith is in how we live and love. If we love Jesus, our lives will reflect these qualities as we interact with others. Not just the ‘others’ who think like us or with whom we feel comfortable. ALL others. We need to be different. “We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” It seems far too often, believers respond with anger, with harsh words, with venomous retorts that only serve to anger others and show no difference between us and the world. But what if, what if we responded with the love-inspired qualities above? How might the world respond?
Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters are convicted to love the Lord their God with all their heart and love others in a godly way as well. Pray that they obey his word, and that love for God is truly made complete in them. Pray they would live, and love, as Jesus did.
“Lord, I pray that You would transform us, even today. May the way we live and treat others be a true reflection of Jesus, not of the Pharisees who held themselves in high regard and were quick to judge and berate others. Lord, help us live in humble obedience to You and Your commandments.. Help us to love You and Your Word with all of our being so that our thoughts and actions reflect Jesus well. Help our words and actions to be different from those of the world. I pray for (name) today. Let them be consumed with love for You and a compelling desire to obey Your Word. Help them shine their light so that others see Jesus in them. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Darkness or Light?
1 John 1:5-10 “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.”
Friends, read those first words from John 1:5-6 again. “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.” Think about the significance of that statement. If we claim to have fellowship with him, and yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.
Recently, a friend attended a football game. He had connections to both teams. So, although he wore the jersey for the home team, he also cheered for the visiting team. Others around him were confused as to which side he was taking...whose side was he on?. Are we clear as to whose side we’re on...or do our choices, words and actions leave others wondering? Do our words, actions and alliances show, without a doubt, that we stand with Jesus? Or do we live with a foot in both streams, causing others to question our loyalties?
If we live in the light, we are fully committed to Jesus and our lives will reflect that. But, if we dabble in darkness, there is an absence of light. That’s not Jesus, friends. Jesus reveals what is hidden in the darkness. He is the light of the world and that light has the power and capability to reveal and disarm the darkness. Darkness, on the other hand, is unable to reveal anything. It has no power over light. But if we choose to play in the dark, it will have power over us. If we dwell with darkness, there will not be fellowship with God, nor with other believers. Darkness does not embrace the Truth, nor does it offer forgiveness or eternal security.
Light vs. Darkness
God Satan
Truth Lies
Forgiveness Condemnation
Abundance Desolation
Fellowship Estrangement
Psalm 88 describes the situation of someone who is struggling, oppressed, near death and experiencing God’s wrath. It ends with verse 18 “You have taken from me friend and neighbor— darkness is my closest friend.” Strong’s Concordance defines the word for darkness, “mahsak”, as being representative of the grave, of hell, of the dark place of God’s wrath(1). Why, then, would anyone willingly choose to fellowship with darkness??
This might give us a clue.... Satan masquerades as an angel of light. The Apostle Paul warned the Corinthians of this very thing. 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, 14-15 “But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough…And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.”
Friends, there is no ‘in between’ option here. We cannot be both in the light and have dalliances with darkness. We cannot cheer for both teams. We can’t wear the colors of one team and cheer for the other. We can’t align ourselves with Jesus on Sunday and party with the world the remainder of the week. We’re either fully in the light, or we’re consumed by the darkness. And if we think we’re successfully juggling both, well, we’re deceived.
What choices are our sons and daughters making? Are they playing in the darkness while claiming to walk in the light? One cannot embrace both and come out unscathed. Either you’re for Jesus or against Him. Many think the darkness will hide their sin, but Jesus sees. He knows. His light will reveal it all. Darkness will never win.
Today, let’s pray that our sons and daughters choose to embrace Jesus and live in His light. Pray they would not be deceived by the Enemy who masquerades as light but leads people to a life of darkness, separated from God. Pray that they live out the truth in authentic, visible ways that would clearly show Whose side they are on and they would do it without compromise.
Pray without ceasing.
H4285 - maḥšāḵ - Strong's Hebrew Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/h4285/niv/wlc/0-1/