For June 19, 2022
The Bible teaches that “when people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful.” Proverbs 29:18 (NLT)
What we experience in this chaotic present day can be attributed to a departure from the Judeo-Christian values we were founded on as a nation. 
Moral consciousness, intercessory prayer, faith in God, selflessly serving others, distinguishing between right and wrong, expressing love and forgiveness are traits of a healthy and prosperous God-fearing society,
Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people. Proverbs 14:34 (NLT)
Some argue that our country was founded on disparity and injustice. And as we consider the history of some natural-born US citizens, unfortunate events, (e.g., slavery, prejudice, segregation, discrimination, etc.), yet evoke feelings rage even today. From a purely secular standpoint, some of those feelings may seem justified.
However, from a spiritual standpoint, we can understand that ours is not a perfect world. Exploitation and victimization happen everywhere. Thus, the work of mutual respect and reconciliation is much needed—amongst and within all races. People must turn to civility and understanding, because we need each other and we share this world together.
Some contend, I suspect from a victimization standpoint, that they are exempt from racial prejudice; contending that victims cannot be hateful, self-serving or prejudice. Yet the Bible teaches that all humans will engage in evil acts (cf. Romans 3:10, 23), and that “if we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.” 1 John 1:8 (NLT)
No one particular race “cornered the market” on victimization or being victimized in the US for instance. We all have a history of giving and/or receiving discrimination, injustice, and hostility—even within our own races.
Nevertheless, I am grateful to live in this country, which the Lord has blessed with opportunities that we often take for granted: to freely worship, to express opinions without censorship, to elect our representation, to travel where we want when we want, and to take on vocational pursuits that enable us to live the “American dream.” Such endeavors allow us to benefit from a capitalistic system that supplies us with goods and services that enhance our standard of living and improve our overall quality of life.
Yet those same freedoms allow some to abuse, assault, and perform other atrocities that disclose the depravity of the human heart. Although disenchantment and despair have become more prevalent today causing many to turn to drugs, sex, alcohol, power to find purpose, fulfillment and meaning, God’s still invites us to repent and return to Him wholeheartedly,
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)
“Doing life” can sidetrack us so that we lose our spiritual vision. Here, we can replace our love and service to God with a love and service to the world. But spiritual vision allows us to exercise our faith in a faithful God, who can save us from ourselves.
As we trust Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we can discover a rich, fulfilling life and experience victory through prayer and faith, as we trust Him for the attainment of specific outcomes under His divine will.
Prayer is an often overlooked means of communication with God that helps to renew our trust in the sovereign power of the living Christ. Through prayer, we become attentive to his voice, as His Holy Spirit brings His Word (vis-à-vis the Holy Bible) to mind. It is through the miracle of prayer that we can find renewal and victory; confident that God hears and will answer us, when we pray according to His will.
Through prayer, drought, floods, social hostility, violence, political uncertainty, economic upheaval, inflation, unemployment, poverty, homelessness, pestilence, disease, despair, and disenchantment can be offered to the God of the Universe, who promises to “supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 (NLT)
Prayer is the act of the Holy Spirit stirring us to rely on the Lord for our sustenance. God is the originator and object of prayer. When we pray, we fulfill His will for our lives and the lives of others as we pray for them.
Prayer is essential to our life and existence as Christians, and its effectiveness rests solely on God’s providence—as He responds according to His eternal timetable. Our confidence rests in knowing that our God and Savior will always supply us with the power we need to overcome.
Won’t you put your faith in Christ and pray for renewal and revival today? Only then can we find true peace, joy and fulfillment.
What a Wonderful Savior!