“While other world views lead us to sit in the midst of life’s joys foreseeing the coming sorrows, Christianity empowers its people to sit in the midst of the world’s sorrows tasting the coming joy.” (Timothy Keller)
Prophetic Focus
Clearing away my art materials recently, I felt God pause my attention on empty paint tubes. They appeared used up but by applying more pressure the last scraps of paint could be recovered. One tube of violet paint ( I loved that colour) was steam-roller flattened. I believe God was highlighting that although we have been “squeezed” during the past months, there was still paint in the tube! More importantly I sensed an emphasis that we’re still going to need it post-pandemic.
“Things always get better in the morning” is a quote from “To kill a Mockingbird”.
It’s not true is it? Let’s not be sentimental or even naive in our faith and think that some difficult situations disappear overnight and that we will never experience hardship.
But we don’t face anything alone and we don’t face them forever.
I believe God was also saying that we need to take hold of and anchor in place “How to THRIVE!”
Diamonds are produced under pressure… we might be rich! Wherever we are, and whatever we are doing, God will help us. He has no wish to destroy or crush us. Rather, He wants to refine and teach us to be wholly dependant on Him. We just don’t always recognise this process, or realise that comfort and ease are not a given. Perhaps recent months have brought more understanding.
Pray
Think over Paul’s life….!
Read Philippians 4:11-13
Hold on particularly to verse 13:
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength”
Spend this time reviewing the areas of your life where you need the strength of God right now. Bring each one to Him.
(Isaiah 40:29)
Ask God to show you ways to thrive and grow – for plans and strategies so that you ‘anchor down’ in Him – whatever the circumstances.
Intercession
340 million Christians worldwide suffer persecution and discrimination. Many are being excluded from receiving aid and medical provision during this pandemic.
Today (19th February 22) OPEN DOORS launch the updated 2022 World Watch List which ranks the 50 countries where it is the most difficult to be a Christian.
This afternoon there will be a Zoom presentation to MP’s who accepted an invitation to learn more about the persecuted church.
At 8.15 pm tonight there is a Webinar for anyone who wants to hear details of the Watch List, the MP’s meeting and current information. (Register on Open Doors website if you want to attend).
Pray for these events today and for the church worldwide living with permanent restrictions, pressures and hardship.
“In the secular view, suffering is never seen as a meaningful part of life but only as an interruption” (Timothy Keller)
Perhaps God is offering us a different view.
19 Jan 2022
