Sunday, December 27, 2015

Start the New Year in Prayer - 2016

We live in an upside down world! Those who insult Islam or stand for Christianity are beheaded. 
Terror attacks in Paris, Colorado Springs and San Barnardino have left us dismayed and horrified.
Our country is experiencing government corruption, lies spun as truth and our youth being mislead by the false propaganda of the media. We no longer trust our government, our leaders, our newspapers, our investors and even our religious leaders. 

As we approach 2016 - Isaiah 60:1-2 is a verse to focus on!
"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.  See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. We live in a world that is enveloped in thick darkness, God commands us to arise, let our Light shines, and the distinctive glory of our Lord will be obvious to all.  

What do we do - knowing the enemy is advancing?  Follow the example of Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20. When Jehoshaphat knew an evil army was advancing he inquired of the Lord and proclaimed a fast for all of Judah.  We like Jehoshaphat should cry out in a desperate prayer for help before we plunge past the point of no return into the abyss of God's judgment.  As believers we need to come together to seek help from the Lord. 

God reassured Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20:15, 17 - Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army.  For the battles is not yours, but God's.  You will not have to fight this battle.  Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.  Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.

What do we do - we start the 2016 year in a position on our knees as we humble ourselves, seek God's face, repent our our sin, and intercede for  out nation.  Then having done all, we stand firm in our faith that God has heard and will answer our prayer. 

Adapted from Anne Graham Lotz