But let all who take refuge in you [O God] be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
The last several years have not been easy for believers. Persecution around the world is at an all-time high. In the United States, some mass murderers targeted those who believed in God. Though executed for their faith, their witness to the Lord has been as inspiring. We have many choices when faced with such shocking brutality. Shock probably should not be among them. This is a form of an old horror, going back to the earliest days of the Christian community. It originated long before the days of Jesus when our Jewish heroes were persecuted for two reasons: they believed in the One true God and were Jewish by race. I believe it's time we start praying this ancient prayer from today's Scripture again. When we pray, let's remember that no matter what others may do to us, they cannot separate us from God, his love, and the deliverance he holds for us in his future.
My Prayer...
Almighty God, please bless our world with a season of peace. Bless us with a respite from the horrors Satan has afflicted on your children through the hatred of men. Please give us the courage, in peace or in persecution, to be open about our faith, generous with our forgiveness, and steadfast in our hope. Finally, Father, please bless those whose loved ones were martyred or persecuted because of their faith in you. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
"When the believers heard about [the attempts to murder Saul], they took him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus, his hometown.
The church....."
"[The apostles to the church in Jerusalem concerning ministering to the widows:] "Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of..."
"Dear Child of God,
Family is important. Your spiritual family is important to you. Your physical family is important to you. Family is important to....."
"[When Jesus' brothers goaded him about going to Judea, he] replied, "Now is not the right time for me to go, but you can go anytime. The world can't....."
About This Devotional
Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.
![Illustration of Psalm 5:11 — But let all who take refuge in you [O God] be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.](https://img.heartlight.org/overlazy/creations/2994.jpg "Illustration of Psalm 5:11 — But let all who take refuge in you [O God] be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.")
Bible: Browse OT/NT Books
Comments
Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment