Weekly Devotionals – 20 September 2021

Most would agree that life, as we know it today, is filled with both fear and chaos. The world is taking note of the 20-year anniversary of the terrorism attack on September 11, 2001. The country of Afghanistan is again in the news. The COVID situation is increasing its grip on nations in areas of health, economy, and travel. People are filled with fear and a sense of hopelessness in addition to being angry and confused. Despite what we see around us never lose sight of the fact that God is in Control.

Over this past week, I have had several reminders of this truth. The Swordlight class is undertaking a study in the Book of Esther. Did you know that God is never mentioned at all in its 10 chapters? Yet, His hidden hand is clearly seen working behind the scenes. There was considerable chaos and fear as the enemy (Haman) seemingly had his way against God’s people. It did not look like God was in control or even around as things deteriorated for the Jews. In a moment, everything changed, and the destruction determined for the Jews turned upon the enemy. God was always in control! What meaning does this example have for us? What are some practical steps that can help align us to that truth amid chaos, confusion, and fear? Here are a few simple yet powerful keys:

1. Celebrate a Simple Meal

This past week my wife and I had two different meals with friends we have not seen for some time. We fellowshipped over delicious meals while sharing events that have taken place since we last met. Time passed quickly as each person was edified by the sharing of physical and spiritual food. Hearing some of the testimonies, some of them life-threatening, affirmed God’s Sovereignty even through the darkest of times. Do we appreciate this precious gift of being able to gather?

Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer (Luke 22:15).

Jesus understood the benefits of food and fellowship with those He was close to, especially in times of great challenges. Solomon, at the end of his life, came to know the simple pleasures of gathering around the table for a meal (Ecclesiastes 2:24). God created man for fellowship!

2. Turn your eyes upon Jesus

This past week was also filled with reminders in how we are to turn our focus and attention upon Jesus. Reverend Tony Yeo, the Senior Pastor from Covenant Evangelical Free Church, shared with the Lighthouse leaders and Staff from Hebrews 12:2. He spoke on how we are to look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith while running our respective races.

Life is filled with many distractions. There are many voices and situations that clamour for our attention resulting in a loss of needed focus. In addition, many of these voices add the weight of discouragement and doubts to an over-burdened soul. It is time for us to Turn our eyes upon Jesus. The more we place our gaze upon the Lord the more the things of this earth begin to lose their appeal. May we learn to have dove’s eyes for the Lord!

Behold, you are fair, my love! Behold, you are fair! You have dove’s eyes (Song of Solomon 1:15).

Oftentimes, the problem of modern-day Christianity is that we make things too complicated. It is easy to say that God is in control but is that the reality in your life? Take time to enjoy God through your daily experience. Every breath, every moment, every encounter is a gift worthy of celebration. Learn to rejoice in the birthing of a new day. Be sure to thank the Lord for His mercies that are new every morning. Doing so will reinforce the reality that the Lord is in Control of all things. Secondly, discipline yourself to cast your gaze and affections to the King of Kings, especially in times of distress and turmoil. You will find that His faith will arise, and your perspective of life will change (Hebrews 12:1-2).

These simple yet powerful exercises will reinforce the reality in your life that God indeed, is in Control.