God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble… He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:1, 9-10)
Lord Jesus, you are our righteousness, holiness, and redemption (1 Cor. 1:30). Hallelujah, and thank you. If we should “die before we wake” tomorrow morning, or die while we are awake today, there is no doubt about where we’ll spend eternity. By the already-given gift of citizenship in heaven, we will be with you immediately, joyfully, and forever.
But you’re also our “refuge, strength, and ever-present help in trouble.” Indeed, the Gospel isn’t just about grace for getting ready to die, but also grace for living through every imaginable and unimaginable trouble. As the war in Ukraine and in our hearts continues, we take the command to “Be still, and know that I am God,” very seriously and gratefully.
Jesus, in light of the Day when you will make all wars cease and destroy every instrument of war—the Day when you will be exalted among all nations and in all the earth… by the certainty of that Day… center, settle, and kindness-hush our hearts in this day.
What the enemy means for evil, you ultimately use for your glory and turn it for good (Gen. 50:20). The battle always belongs to you, Lord. Jesus, by your Spirit, continue to fuel our worship, direct our praying, focus our servanthood, and supersize our hope. So Very Amen.