UPDATED Today’s AMI Devotional QT, written by Pastor Sam Lee who leads Catalyst Agape Church in Northern New Jersey, was first posted on July 28, 2014. He is a graduate of University of Wisconsin (BA) and Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.).
Devotional Thought for This Morning
“Spiritual Respite Amid Bad News from All Sides”
1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.
When I was young, bad news reported on television was limited to what happened locally. Now with the advent of internet, I get bad news from every corner of the world, instantly. I hear about the civil war in Syria, the conflicts in Ukraine, the oppressions in North Korea, the increasing conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians, and on and on. All these bad news from afar, along with bad news around me, can steal my peace and keep me up at night.
So how should Christians respond to things that seem out of our control and causes us to stress? The Bible says, “Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” That is to say, when we are losing peace, the best response is to pray. Though those around us seem to depend on a round of golf, a shot of espresso, or a quart of ice cream, prayer is so much better, more powerful, and more effective in handling anxiety, chaos, and stress.
So today, seek spiritual respite amid bad news from all sides. Pray—not the superficial, guilt-driven, garden variety kind of prayer, but vine-to-branch connection prayer. Today, find the best time and place to pray: that is, a time when you are most alert and awake, as well as a place where you will not be distracted. Find a place that inspires you to pray. It may be a remote park bench visited during your lunch time. During this special time, come before the Lord with a soft and honest heart. It is not His purpose that you suffer through lifeless prayers. He will meet with you. As a matter of fact, He is waiting for you. The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords is waiting for you.
Prayer: Lord, remind me and motivate me to find the time and a place to spend quiet and quality time with you today. You are always so ready to meet with me, though I always make excuses. But not today, Lord! I will see you later during my lunch hour. Thank you, Jesus.
Bible Reading for Today: Acts 25
Lunch Break Study
Read Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Questions to Consider
- Write down the convictions that God gives you through this passage concerning prayer.
- How can you apply those convictions to your prayer life?
Note
- Most of us worry too much, even those who emphasize God’s sovereignty. That’s why it is important to take a pause in the middle of a hectic day and meditate on Ps. 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
- To pray like this, we cannot be hurried nor rushed. While we do most of the talking (praying), we must also keep silent to detect God’s whisper (e.g., a verse, affirming or convicting words, even an image) spoken to our heart.
Evening Reflection
Reflect and walk out the revelations God gave you during your time with Him.