20/11/2016
CHRIST THE KING
Readings: Psalm 46, Colossians 1:9-20
Psalm 46 This Psalm is a strong affirmation of trusting God in the most troublesome situations. The opening statement (verse 1) as well as the recurring refrain (verses 7 and 11) each serves as reinforcements to God’s presence and God’s protection. God is with us, even when the world around us might seem to be falling apart. During unpredictable natural disasters that change and destroy the earth, God’s people are not to fear (verses 2-3). During political calamity, the voice of God can be heard (verse 6). During violence and war, God will bring peace (verse 9). (Verse 10) This is not an invitation “to sit quietly and prayerfully think about things” – this is a command by God for chaos to submit and obey his authority! God, not chaos, is in charge. “Stop your fighting” he says and “submit to My authority”!
Is God your “refuge and strength”?
When chaos comes to your life, do you recognize God has authority over it, do you let Him guide you, or does chaos manage to rule?
Do you believe that God is in charge in our world?
Is God in authority over your life?
Colossians 1:9-20 This Scripture is a powerful prayer of triumph, and of victory, a prayer designed to build up the Christ Follower. It is a prayer that we must make our own! In fact, this passage could also be a hymn/song that we should embed in our hearts and sing loudly when chaos threatens to overwhelm us. It is a song of power and glory all of which is built on the assurance that God, as proven through the life of Jesus – is in charge! What do the following mean – in practical terms – for you:
Vs.9: be filled?
Vs.10: be fruitful?
Vs.11: be strengthened?
To live with ENDURANCE and PATIENCE?
Vs.12-13:be filled with light?
Kingdom Resources: Have a prayerful look at Romans 8:15-17; What does it mean to be an heir of God’s Kingdom?
Read Colossians 1:15-20: “all things” are in Jesus, this phrase hammers home the completeness of the work of the Son of God (text vs.17). How should this knowledge make a difference to your faith?
To Celebrate Jesus, means to take up the call to continue his work and ministry on earth. This must then mean that we must work for peace, must work for justice and must love all people for all are created in His image.
Do you agree?
How do we get this right in practical ways?