Prayer Journal
Wednesday, October 1, 2003
"They are not just idle words for you - they are your life." Deuteronomy 32:47
During these days of terrorist threats, the United States posts warnings to people to alert them of possible acts of terror. Several stages of this terrorism alert are given according the level of imminent danger. But, as it is with any long-term warning system, we've become accustomed to the warning. Now it seems, these alerts have become like storm warning sirens being tested weekly in Anytown, USA - no one really pays attention unless they can actually see the storm coming.
Moses' life and testimony to God's people must have sometimes seemed like a test of a storm warning siren. The words, "This is really important people - remember what the Lord did and obey His words," must have seemed like an ever-repeating slogan to Moses and another red-level alert to the people. They probably were thinking, "That was then; this is now. When I see something happen, I'll get ready. Until then, leave me alone."
Moses's words were still echoing when Joshua picked up the leadership role and walked into the Promised Land with the people. He had interceded for the people before the Lord so many times before; I'm sure he wondered how they would make it if they wouldn't listen to Joshua.
Where is your Bible right now? Will you search for it as you walk out the door to go to church this Sunday? If someone needs a word from God right away, can you minister to them on the basis of how God is working in your life? When trouble comes, will the Holy Spirit flood you with reminders of God's word from which you've been meditating and memorizing? Is God's word your life or just a fitting complement to your Sunday outfit?
In Matthew 24, Jesus revealed what life would be like just before He came back to judge the world. There will be a phenomenal rise in the number of famines, earthquakes, wars and rumors of war. Christians will be persecuted and many will denounce faith in Jesus to avoid being harmed. There will be much deception from the pulpits of American churches and wickedness will grow to the point love will all but vanish from the earth.
In the same way a storm warning calls us to take action we've already practiced, Jesus' words warn us to get prepared for his arrival now, not when we see Him. Most of us will continue to ignore the warning signals until it's too late; we won't be prepared. How about you? Are you ready?
Just Thinkin'... WebServant
Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society
Copyright © 1998-2003
James R. Green and Prayertower Ministries
All Rights Reserved
I'll pray today for...
* My spouse
* My children
* Their friends
* My friends
* My employer
* My city
* My country
* Civic leaders
* Schools
* Teachers
* The sick
* The lost
* Those in despair
* The hospitalized
* The grieving
* Widows
* Orphans
* My church
* My pastor
* Church leaders
* Other churches
* Persecuted church
* Missionaries
* Myself
