Psalm 85:8-9
I will hear what the true God, the Lord, will say. He indeed speaks peace to his people, to his favored ones, but do not let them turn to foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near for those who fear him, so that glory may dwell in our land.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We thank you for giving us your promises and warnings throughout your word. You want all people to have peace despite sin being in the world. Peace comes to us through faith in our Savior, your Son. Your favored ones are those who believe in Jesus and trust his saving work. We also have a warning not to turn to our foolish ways, those desires of our hearts which do not agree with your will. This warning is for the many good people who claim to be Christians and yet chase after their sinful heart’s desires and the world’s ways; and may place themselves above your will. Listening to the world, what you call evil, they call good and necessary; what you call good, they call out-of-touch, out-of-date, or bad. Forgive us when we miss the mark of loving you above all other things when we are drawn to the world’s ways.
Keep us in fear of you and love you according to the faith your Spirit began in us, that we will live according to your will. We cannot do this alone; we need your help, so you sent us your Son. He suffered for every sinful desire we entertain; he died to pay the punishment for our sins; Jesus is the key to peace with you. All is not lost; his life and death restore us to you. So that all who do fear and love Jesus are given your glory, and we are heirs of your holy land. Your forgiveness is always ready for us.
Lord, we pray that your truth will go out to all those around us, no matter what part of the world we live in, so that we have the opportunities to share the good news of Jesus’ love and forgiveness with them. That they will be favored by you and have eternal life. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Know this truth: God desires all people to be saved, for Christ to know you, and he sent his Son to suffer and die for all your sins. So that through faith, Jesus knows you and all who fear him.