I have have yet to identify my next study, so this morning I continue to use DesiringGod.com's Solid Joys daily devotion, which today examines how God is sovereign, is never trapped or coerced, and that He does what He pleases.
Colossians 1:15-17 shares how God is the firstborn of creation, how all things were created by Him, through Him, for Him, and how He holds all things together. The devotion shares how, unlike humanity, God is not "constrained," "backed into a corner," or "coerced." No, as the Psalmist writes, God does whatever pleases Him. Even at the one point where one may think God does something that He does not want to do, scripture says otherwise - we are directed to Romans 8:32, Ephesians 5:2, and John 10:18 where scripture describes willingly gave up His own Son, how Christ's crucifixion was seen as "a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God," and how Christ's life was not taken from Him but He freely offered it as He (per the devotion) had "legions of angels at his disposal." On the contrary, Jesus was not trapped, but He looked beyond the cross, was "totally in charge," and was focused on "the joy set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2). We must acknowledge how Jesus is sovereign and reigns over all matters in Heaven and on earth, while at the same time, He is abounding in grace and love, saving those who confess their sin and surrender to Christ as Lord. This is who God is...and more!
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who is sovereign over all matters in heaven and on earth, and You know everything about me (including my sin!) - yet You are full of grace and mercy as You loved me while still a sinner and saved me. Thank You for my salvation and for the blessings You pour out every day for me. I am not deserving of how You love and save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
