We finish a ‘run’ of bible passages relating to God’s mission. But God is not the only one on a mission – so is our enemy the devil, whose mission is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).

Matthew 28:18

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples…

As God’s people – disciples ourselves – we have been given the job to “go” and “make disciples” of others; and we have the authority of God to do it. We don’t go on our own authority or agenda, but on God’s – specifically Jesus. Question: Whose agenda are you living under right now?

Lord, help me submit to your authority and agenda for my life…

We step into this week celebrating You, Father, who rejoices over repentant sinners;

We celebrate You, Jesus, who has all authority in heaven and on earth;

We celebrate You, Holy Spirit, who helps us come to a knowledge of the truth;

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

John 9:4

As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me…

This verse creates a sense of urgency for me. The second half of the verse states that when it is night, no one will be able to work. Question: What type of urgency to you have in relation to God and your work for Him?

Lord, remind me that you have given me this time in life to ‘work’ for you.

Amen.

Psalm 119:176

I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant,
for I have not forgotten your commands.

From Psalm 119:176, we have a great reminder that when we stray, we need God to seek us out. By extension, when others stray, they need God to seek them out also – and you could be a key to that effort of God’s. Question for you: As God seeks out stray sheep, who might He be trying to reach through you?

Lord, thanks for finding me – how can I be of service to you in seeking others as well?

Amen.

Luke 15:10

There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Heaven rejoices in sinners turning to the Lord… that’s that end game for God – restoration of those once lost but now found. Question: What is your attitude toward repentance?

Lord, teach me about the value of repentance for me and for others and show me the joy, the release, and the restoration in it.

Amen.

Matthew 22:39

Love your neighbor as yourself.

This simple action, when done as God desires, basically fulfills all the law of God. Helping people to experience the love of God is probably best accomplished in this simple action. In fact, the Bible says that without love, the rest is a waste of time (1 Corinthians 13). Where have you left love in short-supply?

Lord, fill me up with Your love. Better yet: Fill my neighbors up with Your love – through people like me.

Amen

Jeremiah 50:6

My people have been lost sheep…they wandered…and forgot their own resting place.

How many people have ‘lost their bearings’ spiritually, not knowing where to turn – even when they want help? Being a spiritual compass for others, pointing to the Lord – even in silent witness – is powerful, pointing people back to the place of rest in God. Can People see enough of God in you to find Him when they are lost?

Lord, may I be a benchmark or a spiritual compass of sorts for people who need spiritual direction from you. And by all means, keep me aligned with you as well.

Amen.

1 Timothy 2:1-4

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

The Apostle Paul reminds us here that, in praying for our government and her leaders, we open doors for the Gospel and news about Jesus to spread to others. Question: Have you thought that praying for President Trump and his team would further the cause of bringing people to know Jesus as Lord and Savior? That is a different thought, and leads to such a prayer:

Lord, bless President Trump and his Administration so that your message is more readily heard and believed in this country and around the world.

Amen.