 Scripture: Then the foreign rabble who were traveling with the Israelites began to crave the good things of Egypt. And the people of Israel also began to complain. “Oh, for some meat!” they exclaimed. Numbers 11:4 NLT If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back. But they were looking for a better place, a heavenly homeland. That is why God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11:15-16 NLT Application: We have so much to look forward to. But we must be willing to train our minds, mouths, and feet toward the very real promises awaiting us. That will require us to politely distance ourselves from people who live in the past. Don't glorify the past; it wasn't as glorious as we try to make it. But the future is more glorious than we can imagine. Prayer: Direct our minds and actions toward our future greatness, not our past circumstances, Lord. Amen.  Scripture: When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:41 NIV. They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32 NIV Application: Being familiar with God's Word makes us in tune with His Holy Spirit, Whom confirms the presence of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Walk with Him, fear no more, and rejoice! Prayer: Encourage us daily to hear You, Father. We want to celebrate Jesus among us. Amen.  Scripture: “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. In his name the nations will put their hope.” Matthew 12:18, 21 NIV Application: Mankind has never in the history of the world created a fair system of justice. Alone, all government is hopeless. Our only hope is in Jesus, strong but loving, severe but fair, and ever-serving but ever-available. In times of deep political turmoil, don't focus on the failures of mortal government, focus on the Lord Who will always be in charge. Pray for all governments, and everything will fall into place in accordance with scripture Prayer: We have a peace in You dear Jesus that all nations need. We pray that every nation will place its hope in You. Thank You. Amen. |