Episode notes
Lord of Lords
Lord Jesus, you are exalted to the highest place. Your name is above every other name – every ruler and principality and power, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.
So today we pray in the name of Jesus—that every knee would bow and every tongue confess that you are Lord. Not because we have the strength to make it happen, but because you do. Not because our plans are sufficient, but because your power is limitless.
Read: Psalm 145:17–18
Pause and pray
Today I am reflecting on the words of the old pioneer Paul, offered to the younger leader Timothy…
Read: 1 Timothy 6:11–16
This isn’t just nice advice; this is a charge that Paul is giving to Timothy. He almost demands that Timothy has the tenacity to run away from evil, to pursue godliness and to fight for what is right, in an unwavering manner. I’m struck by the challenge to any passivity or apathy that I may slip into and am provoked once again by the call of God in my life.
What do I need to run from today?
King of all kings, lead me from evil, that I may pursue righteousness and live a godly life.
Pause and pray
Who or what do I need to fight for today?
Lord of all lords, help me to commit my time, energy and effort to what is good, just and true.
Pause and pray
I ask that your Church across the globe would pursue righteousness and godliness. As I name other nations in prayer, would you empower the Church in those lands to live with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.
Pause and pray
As I return to today’s passage, I listen for a word or phrase that speaks particularly into my personal context today…
Read again: 1 Timothy 6:11–16
I take a moment to reflect now on any word or phrase that the Holy Spirit is highlighting for me.
Pause and pray
I’m struck by the word perseverance. I’m often challenged to live with faith, love and gentleness. I know I need to grow in these qualities. My eagerness to pursue these virtues fuels my prayers and they are metrics by which I measure myself. Yet, right in the middle of Paul’s words, I read that I should also pursue perseverance. Perseverance is a virtue I often overlook and undervalue.
In spite of life’s challenges, Christ calls me to live with an unwavering spirit, choosing not to give up on his purposes for the blessing of other people.
King of all kings and Lord of all lords, I don’t want to give up, but help me when I do. Empower me by your Spirit to obey your commands without wavering, today and every day.
Amen.