Day 5: Committed in Chaos

 

Team Stephen: Log Rolling Contest

"For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him . . . " (2 Chronicles 16:9)

First and Second Thessalonians, two books of the New Testament, are letters Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica, Greece. Did you know that church was born in the midst of violent chaos after a three-week revival? Don't take my word for it. Study Acts Chapter 17.

Paul and Silas had come into Thessalonica, and as was their custom, they went to the synagogue service. For three Sabbaths in a row, Paul used the Scriptures to teach the people, explain the prophecies, and prove that the Messiah must suffer and rise from the dead. He said, "This Jesus I'm telling you about is the Messiah!"

Some Jews listened and believed, but other Jews grew jealous and gathered some troublemakers to form a mob and start a riot. The city was thrown into turmoil. So, that night, the believers slipped Paul and Silas out of town, and in the midst chaos, arose a church of believers who loved Jesus more than they feared persecution.   

My heart breaks over the chaos and destruction in our land today. But I hold great hope in our faithful God! Stay committed to Jesus, beloved. Love Him. Obey Him. Fear Him over the chaos! 

O Lord, You are a great and awesome God! But we have sinned and done wrong. We have rebelled against You and scorned Your commands. Lord, You are in the right; but as You can see, our faces are covered with shame. Please hear our prayer, we plead! Lean down and see our despair and help us, O Lord! We make this plea, not because we deserve Your help, but because of Your great mercy! In Jesus, the Messiah and Savior's name we pray, Amen and amen. 

(From Daniel's prayer in Daniel Chapter 9)