“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you harmony…” (Rom. 15:5)
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing…” (Rom. 15:13)
“May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.” (Rom. 15:33)
Gracious Father, thank you for revealing yourself—for wanting us to know who you really are, and how fully committed you are to caring for us. From Genesis though Revelation you reveal yourself to be the God of all grace, and in just one chapter (Romans 15) out of 1169 chapters in the Bible, you tell us you are…
“The God of endurance and encouragement”—and we need an ample supply of each. You know us by name, geography, and circumstance, so you don’t have to guess what our struggles are. Grant us endurance and encouragement perfectly shaped for our individual stories.
“The God of hope.” In our world of fragility, hostility, and uncertainty, give us 20/15 vision of these 5 things: (1) your 100% joyfully occupied throne. (2) Jesus’ stunning beauty. (3) The place in Lamb’s book of life where each of our names is written with the indelible ink of your grace. (4) A fresh peek at wonders of our coming life in new heaven and new earth. (5) On heaven’s calendar, the date of Jesus’ return circled boldly in multiple colors.
“The God of peace.” Abba, may your peace rule in our hearts—not just be the “window dressing,” background music, or occasional sentiment. Indeed, may your peace shrink our fears, intensify our joy, and free us to live and love to your glory all the way Home. So Very Amen.