Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it…
2 Timothy 3:12-14
Lord, why do the wicked prosper while Your people continue to carry upon their shoulders the trials and tribulations of life? Why does it seem so hard to advance Your kingdom? As I look at this world, this country that I live in, thinking about what we have chosen to stand by and for, my heart is heavy. I have tried to ignore it by avoiding television and the news, disgusted by the vitriol that is being spewed by both sides. I know that I have been influenced by the media that I have taken in. I also know that You are in control, thus nothing shall come my way except it first passes through Your hands. I know that this is not the persecution that You are speaking of. Much worse has been experienced by me and is coming my way. However, I cannot help but have this deep ache in my soul. I want so much better in Christ for myself and this world. Have mercy!
Lord, against this backdrop of persecution and the prospering of those who do not know You, You contrasted the cloud of despair with these words, “But as for you…” With those four words You are separating me as a person from the pain that I am experiencing in this body. You are reminding me that this is not the end all; there is better ahead. You are shining a light on my destination in Christ Jesus, admonishing me to stand fast in what I have learned from those who have taught me the things of You from my youth. In this verse, Lord I hear You challenging me to remember that Your Word is true, literally breathed from You into my hearing, for the purpose of setting me straight, aligning me, and training me in the things of You. By doing so, I can be who You have created me to be and faithfully follow after my Savior regardless of what I am going through. And oh, I so want to be that person today and everyday!
Lord, I pray that You would keep this ever before me today. Continue to remind me that You are bigger than my problems, and that the peace and answers for my soul can always be found in Your Word. I purpose to hide it in my heart and run to it throughout this day as I seek Your power and presence in my interactions with the world. Help me Lord to internalize it so that it is not just an ancient writ that I go to, but instead is the life-source that I rush to when I find that I my soul has been drained. Lord, remind me of what I have learned of You as I talk Your yolk upon me, crucify myself for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.