Tuesday, March 12, 2019

praying effectively: Do Not Boast Insolently (Ps.75)

(Psalm 75:1-10)
 We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks, for Your name is near; men declare Your wondrous works.
“When I select an appointed time, it is I who judge with equity.
“The earth and all who dwell in it melt; it is I who have firmly set its pillars. Selah.
“I said to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’ and to the wicked, Do not lift up the horn;
Do not lift up your horn on high, do not speak with insolent pride.’”
For not from the east, nor from the west, nor from the desert comes exaltation;
But God is the Judge; He puts down one and exalts another.
For a cup is in the hand of the Lord, and the wine foams; it is well mixed, and He pours out of this; surely all the wicked of the earth must drain and drink down its dregs.
But as for me, I will declare it forever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.
10 And all the horns of the wicked He will cut off, but the horns of the righteous will be lifted up.

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:
- that we do not boast arrogantly (75:4)
- that we do not speak with disrespectful pride (75:5)
- that we do not try to show off your own strength (75:4-5)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You that we do not have to worry about the ultimate justice.  This is all in Your hands, and You will take care of everything at the perfect time.

Meanwhile, please bring about justice on the earth right now.  There are so many injustices in this world today which need  fixing.  And so many criminals get away with murder (literally) and are still free to strut around and make their threats.  There are so many innocent people who are being taken advantage of.  Many of these crimes are beyond appalling.

Please guide and equip our law enforcement agents.  Give wisdom to the officers of the court of law.  Protect us and keep us from evil.  Teach our society to respect authority once again.  Help us not become part of the problem.  Help us to do our part without worry or fear.  Help us to completely trust in You.  Amen.

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