Right now, it’s being reported that people are watching more television and online content than ever before, and, as a church and ministry, we are strategically positioned to be there to offer a message of hope and comfort. There is a growing need globally for spiritual help, encouragement and peace. It so important to respond to the fear with faith. As believers, now is our time to rise and shine the light and love of Jesus. You are a vessel of Hope. Together, let’s offer the watching world the real peace found in Jesus Christ. Will you join us right now in your viewing, support and prayer? Thank you for sharing the life-changing message around the world. Now is the time to shine.” Today’s Scripture “…Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well…” (1 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV) Become a Miracle Many people are praying for a miracle. “God, please send me a friend. God, I need help with my children. I need training. God, I need a good break.” We have to realize that we can become the miracle they need. God uses our lives to touch and encourage and bless others. God will bring people across our path so that we can be the answer to their prayers. Take time to become the miracle. You can’t help everyone, but you can help someone. Be aware of who is in your life. Listen to what they’re saying. Is there any way that you can help? Those are opportunities to become their miracle. God put them there on purpose. It’s because you are full of miracles. There is healing in you. There is restoration, there’s friendship, there are new beginnings. You can lift the fallen. You can restore the broken. You can be kind to a stranger. You can become someone’s miracle. A Prayer for Today “Father, thank You that You bring people across my path so I can be the answer to their prayers. Help me to listen to what they’re saying and to be available and do what I can to help. I believe that I am a miracle waiting to happen for someone. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” DECLARE I AM FEARLESS! Take a step of faith. Discover the person God created you to be in these powerful messages. OUR THANKS FOR A GIFT OF ANY AMOUNT REQUEST YOURS NOW! â–ş Follow Us This email is intended for hopkinsanthony33@gmail.com. To unsubscribe from this email list, click remove. To ensure delivery to your mailbox, please add devotional@goto.joelosteen.com to your address book of approved senders. View this email online. Share this email © 2020 Joel Osteen Ministries | PRIVACY POLICY | TERMS OF USE
Walk in Humility
Right now, it’s being reported that people are watching more television and online content than ever before, and, as a church and ministry, we are strategically positioned to be there to offer a message of hope and comfort. There is a growing need globally for spiritual help, encouragement and peace. It so important to respond to the fear with faith. As believers, now is our time to rise and shine the light and love of Jesus. You are a vessel of Hope. Together, let’s offer the watching world the real peace found in Jesus Christ. Will you join us right now in your viewing, support and prayer? Thank you for sharing the life-changing message around the world. Now is the time to shine.” Today’s Scripture “…And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8, NIV) Walk in Humility Did you know that even Jesus had to humble Himself. It takes humility to walk in obedience. Without humility, Jesus could have thought, I’m the Son of God. I don’t have to put up with the way people treat Me. I’m not going to the cross. It was humility that caused Him to not retaliate against those who did Him wrong. Because of His humility, He could spend His life serving others when He had every right to be served. Because of His humility, He could hang on the cross and say, “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they’re doing.” When you humble yourself and do hard things that you know God is asking you to do—forgive the person who did you wrong, honor your spouse’s request, take advice from somebody who doesn’t have your experience—your obedience will bring a blessing. As Jesus did, do what God is asking you to do. Don’t reason it out; just do it. A Prayer for Today “Father, thank You that Jesus was willing to come to earth as a man and then humble Himself even further by becoming obedient to the point of death. Help me to humble myself whenever pride rises up to keep me from being obedient. I want to walk in humility. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” DECLARE I AM FEARLESS! Take a step of faith. Discover the person God created you to be in these powerful messages. OUR THANKS FOR A GIFT OF ANY AMOUNT REQUEST YOURS NOW! â–ş Follow Us This email is intended for hopkinsanthony33@gmail.com. To unsubscribe from this email list, click remove. To ensure delivery to your mailbox, please add devotional@goto.joelosteen.com to your address book of approved senders. View this email online. Share this email © 2020 Joel Osteen Ministries | PRIVACY POLICY | TERMS OF USE
3 Reminders from Paul
URGENT: Encouragement and Prayer in a Time of Pandemic…See All of Our Coronavirus Resources Here Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Find it! 3 Reminders from Paul about Being Homebound during COVID-19 Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies / 3 Reminders from Paul about Being Homebound during COVID-19 Share Tweet Save Kristi Walker Friday, March 27, 2020 It seems like the whole world is quarantined, housebound, or in isolation right now. Does the Bible have any advice for us during this time? Yes, in fact, it does. The Apostle Paul spent a great deal of time in prison, captivity, and under house arrest. During one of those times, he wrote a letter to his mentee, Timothy, giving him the following advice: “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained” (2 Timothy 2:1-9). Photo credit: Unsplash/Natalia Figueredo 1. God’s Grace Leads to Strength (v. 1) According to The Bible Knowledge Commentary on the New Testament: Paul was a prisoner in a Roman dungeon when he wrote [2 Timothy], the last of his epistles, to Timothy. The date, as best it can be established, was approximately AD 67. Not long afterward, according to tradition, the apostle was beheaded … The purpose of 2 Timothy was to encourage Timothy in his ministry at Ephesus. The primary theme of the letter is the need for faithfulness in the face of hardship. If anyone understood and needed God’s strength, it was Paul as he was writing from a Roman dungeon shortly before being martyred. Paul understood captivity. He understood being housebound. He was bound for spreading, not a contagious virus, but a contagious gospel, or good news! Paul’s advice to Timothy, his son in the faith, was to be strong, or be empowered! Timothy was not going to find his strength within himself. He was not going to find it by going to the gym and working out, by eating healthy, by listening to podcasts by people stronger than himself. His strength would be found in one place only: in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. This means that Timothy’s strength would be a gift from God. The same good news or gospel that landed Paul in prison would be Timothy’s solution in times of weakness. Have you ever felt weak, or felt like giving up? Paul knew that Timothy would feel this way, especially in ministry. The Bible Knowledge Commentary explains that “after being released from his first Roman imprisonment Paul, with Timothy by his side, evidently revisited some of the churches in Asia, including Ephesus. On his departure from Ephesus, Paul left Timothy behind to provide leadership to the congregation.” 2 Timothy 1:7 gives us a hint that Timothy may have struggled with fear. Paul wrote: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” Another translation puts it this way: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7, NKJV). Timothy needed reminders not to fear, but to lean on Jesus for strength! In another of Paul’s epistles, Jesus Himself reminds Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). How is God’s grace strengthening you currently? Photo credit: ©Getty Images/TeamDAF 2. God’s Plan Is Still Disciple-Making (v. 2) One thing many of us are doing right now, during this challenging time of Covid-19, is sharing hope and encouragement on social media. (Hopefully we’re not aiding in the spread of fear and panic.) Paul told Timothy to do exactly that! He said, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (v. 2). In other words, in hard times, pass along trusted advice and encouragement! However, there’s more to it than that. Instead of simply spreading good news far and wide (which is okay too), Paul encourages Timothy to be selective in his audience. He is to entrust Paul’s words to “reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” This is intentionality! This is disciple-making! A farmer doesn’t fling his precious, costly seed all over the county. He plants the seeds in cultivated soil. He wants a harvest! We know from the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13 that seeds sown on hard ground don’t grow well. Even if they spring up, they don’t reach maturity. This is the point that Paul is making to Timothy. Be choosy. Be intentional. You will reap what you sow, so sow with wisdom. Find reliable people who will continue to teach others and spread the gospel and invest in THEM. Why? It yields a greater harvest when we make disciples who will make disciples who will make disciples. It’s about multiplication. So how can you do that? 1. Use this time of having to stay at home to start an online Bible study with someone. 2. Find a prayer partner and contact each other weekly for prayer. 3. Ask someone you trust to keep you spiritually accountable during this time. 4. Find ways to share God’s love and truth with someone you’ve been praying for. 5. Be intentional about training up your own children or grandchildren in the faith. Timothy had this kind of spiritual heritage! His mother and grandmother sowed the seed of faith in his heart as a young child and it grew to maturity and reproduced! “I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day, greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also” (2 Timothy 1:3-5). How will you begin or continue making disciples even in this difficult time? Photo credit: Unsplash/nordwood themes 3. God’s Word Is Not Bound (Even When We Are) (v. 9) There are times in life when we are limited. Paul was writing from a dungeon prison. You are most likely reading this from a house you are now bound to, apart from maybe a trip to the grocery store or a walk outside. A large portion of the globe is currently housebound due to a global pandemic. But, Paul reminded Timothy, the Word of God is NOT bound! Even in the technologically challenged age in which Paul was writing, the Word of God was spreading: through letters, through God’s people, through the growth of the early church, even through persecution. Nothing can stop God and His Word! Christ said to Peter, “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). Nothing can stop God. How will you communicate the Word of God during this time? Photo credit: ©Getty Images/kevron2001 Kristi Walker has been a missionary in Berlin, Germany for over 15 years working with an international church as the Director of Student Ministries. She is the author of two books – Disappointment: A Subtle Path Away from Christ and Convinced. Applying Biblical Principles to Life’s Choices. 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Things to do for your mental health during the Coronavirus
Intersection of Life and Faith Toggle navigation How to Care for Your Mental Health during the Coronavirus Crystal Caudill iBelieve Contributing Writer 2020 26 Mar The Coronavirus has disrupted everyone’s life in some form or another. Even at the best moments, there is an underlying stress which chips away at our sanity. Here are nine proactive ways to care for your mental health during these tough times. 1. Step away from Social Media and the News “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NASB) While it may sound counterintuitive when dealing with physical isolation, the constant posts and updates about the Coronavirus actually increases anxiety, worry, fear, and depression. Set aside a timeframe for visiting social media and the news, then step away to focus on other things. The reality is our anxiousness will not change anything about our circumstances, but we do have a God who sees and controls all. 2. Meditate on God’s Word “When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.” (Psalms 94:19 NASB) There is a peace which surpasses all understanding and it can only be obtained by putting our focus on the One who gives it. If you don’t already, now is the time to start meditating on God’s word. Meditating is a purposefully slow, soul-stilling activity. Take your time and read one psalm. Think about what it is saying about who God is, who you are to Him, and what His power is in the situations we face. Pray the psalm. Usually there is at least one verse in each that you can pray for yourself. Allow the truth of what you read to sink in and provide peace. The Psalms are not the only source of peace and strength in God’s word. One of my favorite stories in the Bible is 2 Chronicles 20. Go read it slowly. The passage is filled with encouragement and the revelation of God’s magnificent power. Seek out stories of God’s provision. The God who met those needs is the same God who meets our needs. If you need help finding verses and passages to meditate on, I suggest these: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 Psalm 19 Psalm 30 Psalm 91 Psalm 139 Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Joel Muniz 3. Pray “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 NASB) The fact you are anxious and stressed does not come as a surprise to God. Take this time to lay every concern before God, then turn worries into praise. Begin by thanking God for every good thing in your life, whether it be that you have toilet paper or the sun is shining. Focus upward and outward. Pray for others: the leaders making tough decisions, essential workers who daily put their health at risk to meet the needs of our community, children and parents who have lost their routines, people with compromised health. The list is endless. Prayer is powerful for maintaining your mental health. Photo Credit: © Getty Images 4. Journal through Your Emotions Journaling has long been documented by health professionals as having mental health benefits. Journaling allows you to clarify your thoughts and feelings. As you identify certain emotions, you can tackle and redirect them into a more positive direction. Stress is reduced through the release of intense emotions. You will feel calmer and able to address problems with more clarity. Journaling forces you to slow down and think conflicts, problems, or emotions through. Here is a helpful resource from Allison Fallon, bestselling author and writing coach, to help you develop a daily writing habit. Photo Credit: © fotografierende 5. Get Outside or Participate in Physical Activity “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen…” (Romans 1:20 NASB) A change of scenery will help with the sensation of cabin fever. Go for a walk and take note of God’s creation. Praise Him for each thing you see. All of creation speaks to His existence and providence. Allow it to be a time which refreshes your spirit. Going for a walk also provides a connection point with other people. Have conversations at a distance or offer a smile and wave to someone as they pass. It helps to be reminded there are other people outside of your four walls. If circumstances require you to stay indoors, find some form of physical activity to help relieve the stress. Many exercise classes are being offered online for free at the moment. Photo Credit: © Getty Images 6. Call or Video Chat with a Friend “…A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 NASB) The need for human contact is real. God designed us to be relational, with Him and with others. Take advantage of the fact we live in a technological age. Come together and support each other virtually. Don’t allow all your conversation to be dominated by Coronavirus but don’t ignore it either. This is a shared experience where we have the opportunity to dive deeper into relationships. Pray together. Share encouraging verses. Chat about the challenges you are facing, the unexpected blessings, humorous moments, and share suggestions on how to fill your time. Just because you are practicing social distancing doesn’t mean you have to remain completely isolated. Being in contact—virtually or physically—is a much needed coping strategy. Photo Credit: © Getty Images/halfpoint 7. Find Ways to Serve Others “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NASB) Serving others provides an outlet for us to feel productive, helpful, and less overwhelmed. The Coronavirus provides an opportunity to serve others without leaving your home that will be more acceptable now than at other times. Scroll through your contact lists and reach out to ask how others are doing. See if they need anything you could provide. Challenge yourself to contact someone you haven’t talked to in months or years. Do you have an elderly or high-risk person in your life? What about a health professional or other essential worker in you life? Has someone lost their job? See if they need you to pick up supplies, drop off a meal, or watch their children. Are you financially able to order take-out or items from small businesses? Do it where you are able and leave a tip even though you didn’t eat in. These are financially distressing times for many. Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Kate Remmer 8. Create Some Semblance of Routine For most, our normal routines have been shattered, but that doesn’t mean we should discard them completely. Routine helps with anxiety, the ability to fall asleep, and with a general sense of control. These are all important factors for maintaining your mental health. If at all possible, stick to your normal times of waking up and going to sleep. Even though you are home and it is likely no one else will see you, take the time to shower and get dressed. It will help you to “feel alive” and to be more productive. Try to have regular mealtimes. They will curb the urge to eat all day long, and it’s good for creating a rhythm for your day. These new routines will likely be disrupted at various points, but keep to them as much as possible. Photo Credit: © Getty Images 9. Give Yourself Permission to Relax and Get Nothing Done You are in a unique period of time where all the “extra” stuff of life has been canceled. Make use of the time by not filling it with other things on your to-do list. Take a candle-lit bubble bath with soft music playing in the background. Read or listen to a book. Watch a TV series you’ve been meaning to catch. Play family games. Maybe even take up a new hobby or revisit one you’ve forgotten. Maintaining your mental health during Coronavirus will require purposeful action, but remember these two very important things: God is still God and this too shall pass. Crystal Caudill is a wife, caregiver, mom of teen boys, historical romance author, and prayer warrior. She isn’t perfect but she strives to grow in God and encourage others in their faith journeys every day. Learn more about her and her writing at http://www.crystalcaudill.com. 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10 Prayers for everyone
Prayer Requests and Learning How to Pray Toggle navigation 10 Powerful Prayers for Everyone Affected by the COVID-19 Crisis Beth Ann Baus Crosswalk.com Contributor 2020 26 Mar Share COVID-19 is doing more than threatening our physical health, for many, it’s affecting their mental and emotional health as well. The coming months will likely be full of disappointment, sacrifice, and mourning. But, as followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, we can also look to the months ahead and anticipate joy, personal growth, and new opportunities to live out our faith. With that being said, the best thing we can do right now is pray. Below are 10 prayers for those affected by COVID-19 (which is all of us!). Use these prayers as a guide to pray for yourself, but don’t forget that being others-focused is a constant theme throughout scripture, and should be a constant theme in the lives of all Christ-followers. Please let these prayers be a reminder of what others are going through during this time. Let’s take each other’s burdens before the throne of God! For all of us affected by COVID-19, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13) 1. For the Isolated Father God, I have never felt so alone. I could never have imagined facing something like this on my own and I’m afraid. Please remind me that you are with me. Allow me to feel your presence. Remind me that, as your child, you have not given me a spirit of fear. Remind me that I can trust you with whatever may come. Lord, this isolation is overwhelming. I know I could pick up the phone and call someone, but I don’t want to be a burden. Please help me to have concern for others above myself. I know I’m not the only one feeling lonely, give me the courage to reach out and offer encouragement to others. 2. For Those Asking, “God Are You there?” God, I’ve never really talked to you before. Are you really there? Can you really hear me? I know people who claim to know you and they don’t seem as afraid as I do. I don’t want to be so afraid. If I knew that you were real, I would want to trust in you. Would you help me to believe? If you’re real, would you open my eyes and heart to you? Would you give me faith to believe in you and trust you? While I’m stuck at home, would you please guide me to online sources where I can learn more about you. I want to know you’re real and I want to know the comfort that you give to your people. 3. For Those Infected Father God, I never imagined that I would get this virus. I trust you, but I confess I’m afraid of the unknown. I don’t know how bad my symptoms will get, and I hate knowing I might have infected other people before I knew I was sick. You are the Great Physician, and so I pray for healing. I pray I don’t end up in the hospital and I pray that I didn’t spread this to other people. Give me courage to face the day. Give me the self-discipline to rest and take care of my body while I’m recovering. Help me to praise you, even in this storm. Help me to glorify you with my attitude even in this trial. Help me to spread hope, not fear. Remind me that while I don’t know what my future holds, I know who holds my future. Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Tim Mossholder 4. For the Frustrated Lord, I am so frustrated. I want to make sure I have what my family needs during this time. I see people not taking this pandemic seriously, and I see other people hoarding supplies so that others can’t get what they need. Help me with my attitude towards these people. Help me to hold my tongue on social media, to be a light and an encourager, not a sharp-tongued slanderer. Remind me that we all want to keep our families safe, and we all react differently to fear. Remind me to pray for those who are causing frustration, not to be angry with them. Help me to be an example by following the guidelines set forth by our authorities, and also by putting the needs of others before my own by offering to help my neighbors if they are in need. 5. For Those Who Live in Fear Father God, I don’t even have words for what I’m feeling. My stomach is tied up in knots, my thoughts are skipping so fast I can’t keep up. I’m exhausted but I can’t rest. My dreams at night are as stressful as my thoughts during the day. Excessive hand-washing has left my skin raw. Social distancing has left me feeling more alone than ever. I could call a friend, but I’m afraid they won’t understand. I need help. Please help me to calm down. Help me to stay focused on You. Help me to not be afraid. I feel paralyzed. Please take this feeling from me and give me courage, strength, and an unwavering trust in You. 6. For the Parent Lord, I admit I fear the unknown. I fear how others will act during this time of uncertainty, how long this will last, and not knowing what the world will look like for my children when this is over. Father, calm my heart. Help me to trust you. Please keep my children safe from this virus. Please allow me to stay healthy so that I can take care of them. Help me to rest at night, so that I have energy and clarity of mind. Keep me focused on you, so that I can fill my children with encouragement and not panic. Help us to not grow weary of one another while we’re home together for who knows how long. Show me how to make the most of this time and disciple my children with a new urgency. Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Mike Labrum 7. For the Newly Unemployed Father God, You are our provider. Everything we have comes from You. But right now I feel like everything is being taken from me. I’ve been laid off from work, and if I can’t make money, how will we pay our bills? How will I feed my family? I’m usually the strong one, but even I feel anxiety now. Please be with us. Please help me to point my family to you, even though I feel so lost and confused. Help me to demonstrate trust in you to my family. Give me the discipline to lead my family in worship since we can’t gather with our church family. Give me peace. Use this time to help us learn new things about each other, about ourselves, and about you. I trust you. Help me to demonstrate that to my family so that they feel safe during this crazy time. 8. For the Business Owners Lord, My business was booming just a week ago, and now there are no customers walking through the door. I’m feeling the weight of having to make decisions that will affect my employees. I may have to lay off some of my workers. They all have families and bills to pay. I feel so helpless. Please give me wisdom as I make these tough decisions. Please give me compassion as I have these tough conversations with my employees. Help me to be an example to them, to show them that I trust you to provide for us even in these dark times. I don’t know what that will look like, but I believe it to be true. Father, give us courage as we face uncertainties and above all, I pray I glorify you in my response to this crisis. 9. For our Healthcare Workers Father, I’m exhausted. There are so many people relying on me, and I’m not sure I can be stretched any thinner. I honestly didn’t know I could keep going on such little sleep, so I give you praise for keeping me going! Please, Lord, keep me safe. Keep me healthy so that I can continue caring for the sick. I ask that you protect all the healthcare workers. We need them to be healthy and available. I know that you are the great physician. You are the healer. I ask that you would put your healing hand on our patients. I ask that you would work through us to give them the best care possible. Give us strength when we are weak, endurance to push through the long hours, and tongues that offer hope and compassion to these people who are sick and scared. Some of our patients won’t survive this virus. Lord, don’t let us become numb. Allow us to mourn with those who mourn, but also give us the strength to keep going, to keep working. Give us opportunities to share the hope that is found in you. Help us not to be afraid. Remind us to praise you in this storm. Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Ashkan Forouzani 10. For Our Church Leaders Father God, This virus is presenting new challenges every day. The emotions and attitudes of those in our church family are varied. Some are more afraid than others, some are more prone to anxiety than others, some run towards danger with no thought of the consequences. Lord, as a church leader, give me wisdom as I talk with and encourage your people. Give me the clarity to see the needs of the people. Please allow your Spirit to guide me and to speak through me as I offer hope and point them to you. Show me ways to keep our body connected during this time of social distancing. I praise you that we live in a time with technology that allows us to stay connected, yet I know many of our members still feel isolated and alone. Lord, give us eyes to see the needs. I ask that you equip your people to offer hope during this time, not panic. I pray that you would use your church to advance your kingdom, to be examples of your great love and to be ready to offer an explanation for the hope we have in you. Father God, there are so many people to pray for during this time. So many needs, so many requests. This can seem so overwhelming to us as your church. Remind us that you can hear all the prayers, you can see all the needs, and you are a provider. Lord, as we face these uncertain times, may you use this time to grow us in our faith and understanding of you. May you use this time to remind us of our mortality and of eternity. Life is short. Remind us that we should live our lives ready to meet you at our appointed time and while we fear the unknown, we have assurance of salvation. We praise you, Lord, for Your goodness, your mercy, and your love. We know the COVID-19 outbreak did not surprise you. We know you are sovereign, even over this. Let that truth give us comfort, and may you give us opportunities to share that comfort with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Tam Wai Beth Ann Baus is a wife and homeschooling mom of two boys. She is a freelance writer and author of novels, Sister Sunday and My So Much More. In her writing, Beth often pulls from her own experiences of abuse, anxiety, depression and OCD. Beth has a heart for women’s ministry and is in the process of becoming a certified Biblical Counselor. She loves serving alongside her husband and pointing couples to the Word for strengthening their marriages and home life. You can find more from her at www.bethannbaus.com. 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COVID19 BIBLE STUDY
URGENT: Encouragement and Prayer in a Time of Pandemic…See All of Our Coronavirus Resources Here Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Find it! 9 Ways to Pray for Believers from a Distance During COVID-19 Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies / 9 Ways to Pray for Believers from a Distance During COVID-19 Share Tweet Save Lianna Davis Saturday, March 28, 2020 While being in chains for the gospel or on long missionary journeys, the apostle Paul modeled intentional prayer for other believers while at a distance from them. Though Paul was separated from believers for different reasons than the COVID-19 “shelter in place” orders or self-isolation, he still leaves us an example. When we are apart from our brothers and sisters in Christ, they need not be far from our hearts and minds in prayer. Having care and concern for the physical health of other believers has biblical precedent: “Believer, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul” (3 John 1:2). We can pray for stamina, strength in immune system, healing, and wellness for each other. As we do, we can also pray for each other’s souls. Paul’s letters can be surveyed to glean ideas for how to pray for one another from afar. Learn from this servant of Christ to pray: Photo credit: ©Getty Images/kieferpix 1. Thank God for the testimony to the gospel evident in your brothers’ and sisters’ lives. “I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge—even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you—so that you are not lacking in any gift as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:4-8). Offer thanks for your brothers and sisters in Christ—for the knowledge of God present in their minds and hearts. Pray they would be assured that God would sustain them to the end, and that His sacrifice has made them guiltless before the Father. Thank God for the faith evident in your brothers and sisters. 2. Ask God for comfort for your brothers and sisters—and for fitting ministry opportunities. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Praise this God who comforts the spirits of His people. Following that, pray specifically that your brothers and sisters would be comforted in their time of hardship. Ask that they might see ways to comfort others as well, out of the abundance they have received in Christ. Ask that neither focus would dominate—that they would not become focused on receiving comfort to the exclusion of giving it, and that they would not become focused on ministering to others such that they do not receive the comfort from God they need. Photo credit: Unsplash/Allan Taylor 3. Pray for the gospel to remain central in your brothers’ and sisters’ thoughts and lives. “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen” (Galatians 1:2-5). Pray they would remember the gospel—that the message of Christ, who gave Himself for us, would remain the focused and clear motivation for daily living. Pray that no legalism or lawlessness would creep into their hearts to distort the gospel. And pray that they would be strong against temptations. Ask that they would remain focused on giving God glory for the good that is in their lives while in their homes and with their families. 4. Ask God to deepen the faith and understanding that your brothers and sisters have of the gospel—that they would strive for more truth of Christ in their lives through knowledge, discernment, and insight. “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you . . . and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe . . . far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named” (Ephesians 1:16, 21). “We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers, as is right, because your faith is growing abundantly, and the love of every one of you for one another is increasing. Therefore, we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the affliction that you are enduring” (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4). Pray for believers to rest in the Spirit, who opens the heart and mind to the wisdom and knowledge. Ask that in what your brothers and sisters cannot control, they would remember the hope of glory and the exceedingly great power of God. Pray that though the outside world becomes reordered or even disordered, their lives would remain ordered as always—by operating in submission to the kingly rule of Christ. Ask God to remind your brothers’ and sisters’ hearts that He is over all things—every authority, power, dominion, and name. Pray that, in thinking of the might of God who indwells them, they would experience an increase in faith and have endurance in affliction. Photo credit: Unsplash/Diana Simumpande 5. Praise God for the good gifts He has given to your brothers and sisters—asking for those gifts to be affirmed, to grow, and to be effectively used. “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all, making my prayer with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ . . . And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God” (Philippians 1:3-6; 9-10). “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3). Take time to thank God for how He has used others to share and spread the gospel. Worship God that He has given partners to you in ministry, and rejoice in His good gifts in the lives of others. Ask God that your brothers and sisters would be confident of His good purposes for their lives—and that they would have the joy of their gifts being used for the good of others in this time of trial. 6. Ask that your brothers’ and sisters’ lives would align with God’s holy will, be filled with good works, demonstrate fruits of the Spirit, and overflow with worship for God. “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light” (Colossians 1:9-12). Ask that your brothers and sisters would be abounding in spiritual wisdom and knowledge—that they would not approach trials from the standpoint of the world, but from a godly perspective that sees all of life in the Father’s hands. Pray that their lives would be characterized by amazement that the God of heaven would condescend to save man. Ask that their humility would create a yearning to walk in a way that is worthy of Him. Pray that their lives would only grow more fruitful in goodness during these days. Photo credit: ©Pexels/Katii Bishop 7. Pray that God would allow believers to be peaceful and dignified in response to government officials. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Ask that during this time of disruption and uncertainty, your brothers and sisters would interact and react honorably, graciously, and kindly to governmental authorities. Ask that the truthful speech of your brothers and sisters would also demonstrate a peaceable spirit—that those in high places might see believers’ approach and words and be drawn themselves to Christ and the gospel. Pray that your brothers’ and sisters’ hearts would yearn for the salvation of the unsaved in authority, molding their actions around that hope. 8. Pray for sincerity, warmth, and brotherly/ sisterly love to remain constant and intact in separation. “. . . I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy” (2 Timothy 1:3b-4). Ask that while believers do not gather in local church congregations, their hearts would not grow cold and distant from one another. Pray that they would highly anticipate the future day of gathering in person. Pray that your brothers and sisters would be full of genuine love—and that you would be too. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Kaybe70 9. While praying for the faith and fruitfulness of other believers, thank God for the comfort and refreshment that your brothers and sisters have afforded to you. “I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have. . . For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. (Philemon 1:3-4, 7). Thank God for the way that other believers have ministered to you personally. Ask that your heart would stay humble and open to receiving good gifts, words, and help from them. Praise God for the refreshment of being united with others who are devoted to the Lord Jesus—and who are orienting their lives around Him and His truth. We do well to pray for the physical health of our family, church members, other friends, country, and world—demonstrating our heartfelt concern amidst this novel coronavirus pandemic. While we observe what is taking place in our communities, God is to be praised for our brothers and sisters—for how gospel hope is evident among them, for the good gifts and works in their lives, and for the ways they have been comforted through Christ. He wants to use you and me to offer Him that worship. And we can pray that, through Christ’s truth, grace and peace would be further multiplied among us. While being in our homes, our hearts can remain attuned to those outside of our walls with our prayers. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/jupiterimages Lianna Davis is author of Keeping the Faith: A Study in Jude and Made for a Different Land: Eternal Hope for Baby Loss. She and her husband, Tyler, live outside of Dallas, Texas and have two dear daughters. Share This Recently Featured Does the Verse “If My People Who Are Called by My Name” Apply to the World Today? Bethany Verrett What Happened to Judas after He Betrayed Jesus? Clarence L. Haynes Jr. 9 Ways to Pray for Believers from a Distance During COVID-19 Lianna Davis 10 Comforting Bible Verses to Memorize During COVID-19 Quarantine Jennifer Waddle You may also like How to Not Be Bitter in Life – 7 Ways to Overcome Resentment ‘Who Will Be Our Rachel Now?’ Progressive Christians Reflect on Movement Without Held-Evans A Super Moon, Blood Moon and Lunar Eclipse All In One Night: Are You Ready? 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1st Thessalonians 2:19 Meaning
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Faith and Prayer during COVID19
URGENT: Encouragement and Prayer in a Time of Pandemic…See All of Our Coronavirus Resources Here Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Find it! 10 Ways Christians Can Exemplify Faith and Peace during COVID-19 Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies / 10 Ways Christians Can Exemplify Faith and Peace during COVID-19 Share Tweet Save Joel Ryan Monday, March 23, 2020 In just a few short weeks, classification of the coronavirus (COVID-19) escalated from outbreak, to epidemic, to global pandemic; and President Trump declared an official state of emergency for the United States and its citizens. And as anyone reading this knows, the impact of this kind of global crisis extends far beyond the sickness itself. There is not a person on this earth who hasn’t been impacted by the coronavirus, in one way or another, and right now, many people are anxious, on edge, and afraid. Some have even gone to the extreme, bunkering down and “panic purchasing” toilet paper, respiratory masks, and bottled water in preparation for the “end of the world.” Everyone will react to crisis and fear in different ways, but in trying and uncertain times like these, how should Christians respond? When the rest of the world is afraid and loses hope, how can Christians still bring the life and love of Jesus Christ to a sick and dying world? Here are 10 things Christians can do in faithful response to COVID-19: Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/DKosig 1. Stay Informed and Only Spread Truthful Information It doesn’t take a lot to cause a panic. It takes even less for people to fall into fear or turn to their own self-preservation. Right now, we’re seeing a lot of reacting, and not all reactions are positive or even rational. This is a medical emergency, and there are many people around the world who are sick and suffering. Ignorance and complacency kill, but so can panic, and sometimes our response to crisis can be just as dangerous than the threat itself. That is why Christians can help by seeking out accurate information from medical organizations like the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization and only sharing facts and truthful information, not more hysteria or misinformation through social media or word of mouth (Philippians 4:8, Proverbs 11:14). This is a medical crisis, but a world living in fear is also a spiritual crisis. After all, no one benefits from a confused, fearful, and self-centered world more than Satan. 2. Do Not Surrender to Fear While the world lives in fear, Christians must look to the peace and power of God and be the living the hope found in His name. Faith can be an antidote to fear, and nothing strengthens a believer’s faith like the promises of God. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. – 1 Timothy 1:7 The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You. – Isaiah 26:3 There is no fear in love, for perfect love casts out fear. – 1 John 4:18 Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/fizkes 3. Practice Personal Hygiene This seems like the most obvious response to fighting an infectious disease, but knowing what steps the Center for Disease Control actually recommend can go a long way to help prevent sickness and dramatically reduce the spread of COVID-19. Christians must have a global outlook. Remember, it’s not just about you. Just because you are healthy and strong enough to fight off the virus doesn’t mean that others around you will be. And just because you don’t currently have symptoms doesn’t mean you aren’t infected or incapable of spreading the virus to others. If you’re not sick: -Avoid close contact with those who are. -Thoroughly and frequently wash your hands. -Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose. -If you can avoid public places, stay home! -Understand that quarantines will help slow the spread of COVID-19. If you are sick or think you might be sick: -Stay home. Seriously. Consider your impact. -Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. -Wash your hands frequently! -Disinfect surfaces you’ve touched. -Wear a face mask if available. If not, cover your nose and mouth. This is a time, more than ever, for Christians to step up and care for the sick by being socially conscious, considerate, and diligent in practicing personal hygiene (Leviticus 19:32, 1 Timothy 19:32). Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/MargoeEdwards 4. Choose Compassion over Personal Convenience As mentioned before, a global pandemic like the coronavirus impacts more than just our physical health and well-being. To reduce the spread of the virus, most event centers, sporting arenas, and public gatherings have been temporarily closed and their events canceled or postponed. While this may feel extreme, canceling or postponing large public gatherings, even ones we enjoy, dramatically reduces the number of people who will be exposed to the coronavirus in the coming months. In doing so, lives will be saved. Yes, our personal comforts and entertainment may be restricted or put on hold, but not going to Disneyland, Coachella, or the Lakers’ game is a small price to pay for the health and safety of others around the world, even those we have not met. Christians who complain about all the things they have to give up in this season while people in the world suffer are not practicing the love and compassion of the Jesus they claim to serve (Romans 12:15). As Paul wrote, “do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:4-5) Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Silvia Jansen 5. Don’t Buy What You Don’t Need In being willing to sacrifice for the good of others, Christians should also be considerate and not buy more than they need. It’s wise to prepare for the future (Provers 6:6-11), but that doesn’t mean Christians should stockpile supplies that are desperately needed elsewhere. “Panic purchasing” and stockpiling has led to the kind of shortages we’ve seen in recent weeks. Christians can help by: -Refraining from buying respiratory masks. Surgical masks are essential for doctors and nurses, and without them, they cannot effectively treat sick patients, including those with coronavirus. -Washing their hands with soap when possible and saving the hand sanitizer for nurses, first responders, and trauma centers. -Saving bottled water for those who do not have immediate access to clean running water. Use the tap or filtered water first. -Saving baby wipes for babies. There are other ways to clean and sanitize one’s house. Remember, God has promised to be your daily bread (Luke 11:1-4) and provide for all of your needs (Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-34). As Jesus said, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will take care of itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:33-34) Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/rclassenlayouts 6. Donate to Shutdown Schools and Contribute to Employees Out of Work With most schools shut down and many businesses closed, a lot of people are out of work for the foreseeable future, and many parents, who would normally be working, are now forced to stay home to take care of their children. Shutdowns and temporary quarantines have had an unintended effect on the financial stability of families and the well-being of the children in them. In many cities, schools provide the only meals children get each day. This is why many schools in cities like Los Angeles and New York were hesitant to shut down, and with parents forced to stay home from work, things can get even tougher for families struggling to make ends meet. So what can Christians do? -Be generous and give to families in need. -Donate money to help children and fund shut-down schools. -Pray for Congress to pass more legislation guaranteeing paid sick leave for families out of work. -Ask about the needs of your neighbors and go out of your way to meet them. -Turn to out-of-work parents, artists, performers, and educators for childcare and other jobs. The apostle John wrote, “if anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” (1 John 3:17) Like it or not, the time for generosity is now. How will Christians respond? Will they be stingy or quick to provide for “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40)? Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Canan Turan 7. Don’t Isolate Yourself from the Body of Christ Our church announced that it was canceling Sunday services for the foreseeable future. While my wife and I hope this is only temporary, shutdowns like this do not mean that the church must cease to be the Body of Christ. Even if they cannot meet in person in their normal buildings, or together in small groups, Christians must stay in contact with fellow believers and encourage them through text messages, phone calls, and even FaceTime or Skype. Thankfully, there are still many resources available, the greatest of which is prayer. The Apostle Paul was often prevented from meeting with churches and believers in person. This did not stop him from writing to fellow believers or praying for them from where he was (Romans 1:8-11). Today, we have the same spiritual resources available to Paul and even in more communications resources. Let’s use them and not make excuses (1 Peter 3:8). Again, no one benefits from an isolated and divided church more than Satan. 8. Be the Church In the midst of fear and uncertainty, Christians have a tremendous opportunity to be the salt and light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). Imagine what the next few months could look like if the church took the lead on giving, compassion, and community care during this trying season. What an impact we could make and what a light we could be. The greatest testimony of Christ’s love is Christians who love the world the way Christ does (John 3:16, 1 John 4:19). By our love, the world will know we are His (John 13:35). Global disaster or opportunity to be the light and love, hands and feet of Jesus Christ? We get to decide (Colossians 3:12). Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/eggeeggjiew 9. Unleash the Power of Prayer There are many ways to react to a public health crisis like the coronavirus. But in this season, Christians have the power to do more than react. Now is the time for Christ’s followers to truly go on the offensive and unleash the power of prayer. -Pray for healing for the sick (James 5:14-15) -Pray for strength for those who aren’t sick (3 John 1:2) -Pray for provision (both financial and physical) (Philippians 4:19) -Pray for a spirit of peace to come over the world (1 Timothy 1:7) -Pray for wisdom for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2) -Pray in unity with other believers (Matthew 18:20) -Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) 10. Put your Hope and Trust in the King of Kings and Lord of Lords While the coronavirus may impact our health, our economy, and our very way of life, we serve a God who is bigger and stronger than any sickness, fear, darkness, or weapon of the enemy, and He has a plan (Jeremiah 29:11). Our God is Healer (Psalms 30:2), Provider (Philippians 4:19), and King (Psalms 47:7). So trust in the Lord, trust in His power, trust in His plan, and stand firm in His promises (Proverbs 3:5-6). Be the church and the light and love of Jesus Christ to a sick and frightened world. And when you too are afraid, never forget that “weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” (Psalms 30:5) EDITOR’S NOTE: This previously-written article has become a resource for many as we face growing fear and anxiety due to the Coronavirus pandemic. God is ALWAYS our source of protection, strength, and peace during unknown times. In addition, the following articles may offer more encouragement for all to remember as we face the trials of COVID-19 together: Do Not Fear! 10 Verses about Fear & Anxiety to Remind Us That God is in Control Prayers for Peace Amidst Pandemic Fear Powerful Prayers for Coronavirus – Those Sick and Those Worried What “No Harm Shall Overcome You” in Psalm 91:10 Means for the Coronavirus “Be Still and Know That I Am God”: Meaning & Promise of Psalm 46:10 Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Mangos Joel Ryan is an LA-based children’s and young adult author who teaches writing at Life Pacific University. Joel is passionate about helping youth encounter the Lord through storytelling and art. In his blog, Perspectives Off the Page, he discusses all things writing, the creative process, and what makes great stories so impactful. Share This Recently Featured How Psalm 91 Speaks to Your Coronavirus Fears Lianna Davis Does the Bible Address Cremation? Clarence L. Haynes Jr. 10 Ways Christians Can Exemplify Faith and Peace during COVID-19 Joel Ryan 8 Practical Ways to Give God Glory Every Day Ruth Clemence You may also like Ads by Revcontent 1 Simple Trick To Cut Your Electric Bill By 90% Okowatt Featured Verse Topics Healing Bible Verses Worry and Anxiety Bible Verses Prayer Bible Verses Bible Verses for Overcoming Grief Bible Verses to Comfort You Bible Verses About Protection God’s Promises – Verses in the Bible Bible Verses For Faith in Hard Times Encouraging Bible Verses Hope Bible Verses Friendship Bible Verses Forgiveness Bible Verses Strength Bible Verses Love Bible Verses Inspirational Bible Verses About Online Bible Sitemap Link to Us Advertise with Us Feedback Proud member of Salem Media Group. Copyright © 2020, Bible Study Tools. All rights reserved. Article Images Copyright © 2020 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. Do Not Sell My Info (CA only)
Isaiah 26:20
Daniel 2:38 Meaning
Verse of the Day â–Ľ Devotions â–Ľ Home Verse Of The Day Daniel 2:38 â—„ What Does Daniel 2:38 Mean? â–ş and wherever the sons of men dwell, or the beasts of the field, or the birds of the sky, He has given them into your hand and has caused you to rule over them all. You are the head of gold. Daniel 2:38(NASB) Verse Thoughts The redemptive plan of God and His purpose for mankind is the most thrilling tale ever to be told. It is a true story that spans the history of the world. It brings into focus heroic men and godly women. It gives us an understanding of the evil schemes of the satanic realm and their attempts to counter God’s plan of redemption. And it helps to identify the wicked characters in the ongoing angelic conflict – a spiritual war between God and Satan, that has been raging in heavenly places for millennia. The first chapter of Daniel provides a historical background surrounding Judah’s exile in Babylon. We find Daniel, along with three friends and other high-born Israelite youths, being placed on a training programme in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel, together with Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, resolved to stay true to the God of Israel, demonstrating that he was a man after God’s own heart. As a result, God used Daniel to interpret a number of dreams and visions that provide us with a prophetic record of world history. Daniel gives us a timeline stretching from Judah’s exile and Israel’s dispersion, to the second coming of Christ, to set up His millennial kingdom on earth. Daniel was enabled to understand and interpret King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, of a great statue, with a golden head, which revealed a big picture of ‘the Times of the Gentiles’, which began with Judah’s exile from Israel and will continue until Christ’s second advent. Chapter 2 provides in-depth details, surrounding Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, and verse 38 explains the meaning of the great statue, with its magnificent head of gold and the other body parts, which were constructed from different materials of diminishing value. The last and final empire was represented in the statue’s feet and toes, which were made of iron mixed with miry clay. Daniel accurately described the statue the king saw in his dream. It was a tall and dazzling figure of a man. This great image stood in front of him, and its appearance was terrifying. Daniel told the king that HE – Nebuchadnezzar, represented the head of gold on the terrifying image. He explained that God had placed the kingdoms of the world under his authority. “The God of heaven has given you sovereignty, power, strength, and glory.” he told the king. “Wherever people live—or wild animals, or birds of the air—God has handed them over to you and made you ruler over them all. YOU ARE THAT HEAD OF GOLD!” Daniel concluded. The same desire for world rule and total domination of an elite ruling class, such that we see today, began in the city of Babylon. The same lust for control appeared centuries before Nebuchadnezzar when Nimrod built the Tower of Babel. It was because of Israel’s failure to trust in God, keep His covenant and obey His commands, that the Lord has allowed fallen man to assume authority over the whole earth… until Israel is ready to repent of her sin and accept God’s anointed Son as their Messiah. Judah’s exile into Babylon became a trigger point to set in motion one of God’s prophetic clocks – the starting point for the Times of the Gentiles. Nebuchadnezzar and the kingdom of Babylon, was to be the first and greatest world empires to dominate world history, after God set aside His people Israel, because of their apostasy. The countdown to Christ’s first AND second advent began when that head of gold was identified as the kingdom of Babylon. The trigger point for the Times of the Gentiles that coincides with Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, continues to tick towards the second coming of God’s Anointed – when Jesus Christ the Righteous is crowned King of kings and Lord of lords. God purposed in His plan that Christ must first come to save His people from their sin, through His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, BEFORE He could smash in pieces the kingdoms of this world system. Sin had to be dealt with BEFORE He could grind the proud empires of the world to dust and regain dominion over the fish of the sea, the fowl of the air, the cattle of the land, and every creeping thing that creeps on the face of earth, which was forfeited by the first Adam, so many years before. Before the world began God knew that man would sin and that rebellion would become part of man’s sin-nature. He knew that His chosen people, Israel (through whom the Messiah would come) would fall into apostasy and that their punishment would bring in the Timed of the Gentiles. He knew that His anointed Messiah would be born into the human race as a babe in Bethlehem and be despised and rejected at His first advent, God knew that Christ’s sacrificial death and glorious resurrection would secure salvation for all who believe. God knew that Nebuchadnezzar would be head of gold and that his reign would set in motion the Times of the Gentiles. He knew that Babylon would be the first kingdom to stride onto the pages of history, as time marched towards the rapture of the Church; the second advent of Christ, the Time of Jacob’s Trouble and that glorious day, when a STONE, cut out without hands, would strike the statue on its feet of iron and clay and crush the kingdoms of this world – bringing in the Millennial kingdom of Christ. God knew that Christ ALONE can break into pieces the bars of iron that entrap man’s soul. He alone could triumph over man’s greatest enemy – DEATH. He alone can defeat the terrible, satanic statue, with its head of gold that dominates the kingdoms of this world. God told us the end from the beginning so that we would know that JESUS is that Stone that is cut without hands. JESUS is the Rock of our salvation, and whosoever shall fall on this Stone shall be broken before the Lord (i.e. those saved by grace through faith), and that on whomsoever that Stone shall fall, will be ground to powder. (i.e. the wicked unbelievers and those in the satanic realm). God in His wisdom and grace gave us this important picture of world domination, through a succession of evil empires, dominated by Satan, to purify our heart and strengthen our faith. He told us the end from the beginning so that everyone who has this hope in HIM, will purify themselves, even as HE is pure. We have a supernatural book written by almighty God, communicating to us His redemptive plans and purposes, and telling us all we need for life and godliness. God in His grace has opened our understanding so that we will not fear what is coming on the earth, but trust in His unfailing love. KNOWING THIS… let us seek to trust in the Lord with ALL our heart and lean on HIS understanding in all things. Let us take to heart ALL that is written in the pages of Scripture and rejoice that the day is coming when the kingdoms of this world will become the eternal Kingdom of our God and of His Christ – the ROCK on Whom we stand. Let us rejoice that He is coming back to reign on earth and that because of our faith, we will reign with Him forever. My Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for telling us the end from the beginning and purposing in Your heart to save me from my sin. Thank You that a day is coming when You will bring to nothing the proud puppets of Satan, who have enslaved world, rejected Your offer of salvation, and put on a necklace of rebellion and pride. Keep me every looking to JESUS, the Author and Finisher of my faith – the Rock on Whom I stand and the Stone Who will smash to pieces all that is evil. How I praise Your name for the holy Scriptures. Increase my understanding, I pray, and keep me looking for Christ’s any day return, in Jesus’ name I pray – AMEN. â—„ Previous: Daniel 2:34 Next: Daniel 2:44 â–ş Choose a Verse from Daniel 2 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849 Romans 9:5 1 John 4:8 Romans 7:24 Ephesians 4:16 Follow us Daniel 2:38 Further Study Daniel 2:38 in the Parallel Bible Daniel 2:38 in the Thematic Bible Daniel 2:38 Cross References Daniel 2:38 Treasury of Scripture Knowing Daniel 2:38 Sermons Daniel 2:38 Prayers Daniel 2:38 Images Choose Chapter Subscribe to the Verse of the day Today’s Devotionals Stand Fast In Faith Genesis 15:6 1 Thessalonians 2:12 Pattern Of Mercy Decreasing Into His Purpose Eternal Acceptance – Grace Thru Faith- study [12 The Allotted Task Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us Copyright Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved
