Lord, the older I get, the more I see the terrible impact of sin on the world. I see broken people, broken relationships, and habitual rejection of truth by so many. Even people who claim to know You walk in utter defeat, because they choose their own ways above yours. With all my little grandchildren, I see the misery that comes from such self-determination and selfishness. It’s inborn. They are constantly conniving to get what they think they want, and will stoop to any means of getting it. When they are told “no,” they have meltdowns. Adults are usually no different; our “meltdowns” are just a little more socially acceptable. We complain, succumb to depression, or maybe even run to false gods like alcohol, television, or food for comfort. All the while You are pleading for us to come to You an find true life. The very things we seek for comfort, the things we believe will fulfill us, hold us captive and come up empty. The more I see it, the more I hate this world. 1 John 2:15 instructs us not to love the world– meaning the world system that runs on selfishness and pride. The older I get, the easier it is for me to hate it. When I was younger, it seemed normal, but now that I know more of your sweet love and mercy it just grieves me. You came down and willingly entered the misery to the point of allowing ultimate selfishness nail You to a cross. It baffles the mind! Things here remain pretty horrible in spite your sacrifice. At times, I find it easier to understand the flood than the cross. If I were in your place, I am sure I would have chosen destruction rather than redemption. That is why I am so glad You are on the throne and not me. To me, things often seem hopeless, but You are hope and You are light that shines in the darkness.
I know there is beauty in the world as well. Your grace and love are evident everywhere, but it’s still so hard to watch the huge stain of sin on your perfect creation. Paul was right when he likened life in this world to a battle. Some days this soldier just gets weary. It hurts to watch so many I love hurting from the effects of sin, and everyday it seems I find a new weakness in my own life. Today I pray You will help soar above the storms of life with You. I have no strength on my own, and I am desperate to share in yours. Thank You for loving me enough to give me everything I need for this battle. Amen
My child, do not let grief overwhelm you. I have given you my Word so that you can have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but cheer up, because I have overcome the world (Jn. 16:33). I dwell in you and am greater in you than the one who is in the world (1 Jn. 4:4). Yes, the brokenness is distressing, but you must look at it through my redemptive plan. Walk in my Spirit, and let me make you into an instrument of change. Let your light shine in the darkness so that others will see your actions and give glory to Me (Mt. 5:16). Remember the darkness cannot overcome the light (Jn. 1:5). Yes, you groan as you wait for that day when I bring you into my presence (Rom. 8:23), but you have hope. Share it with others. Remember that I am working all things together for your good (Rom. 8:28), and that means that I can even use the sorrow and suffering caused by sin. Remember how I used the Babylonians to refine my children? Remember the suffering of the heroes of the faith mentioned in the letter to the Hebrews (Heb. 11)? They triumphed through faith. It is your faith that overcomes the world (1 Jn. 5:4), so walk by faith and not by sight. Stay close to me, and you will find victory in the midst of brokenness. That is my specialty, so hold on to Me as you walk through this day. I am mighty in your weakness, and will do great things as you lean on Me.