The secret origin of shame

 Shame is first found in the story of Adam and Eve. When they broke God's commandment in the Garden of Eden, they immediately felt shame and hid. God didn't force them to feel shame, they felt it before being confronted. God then provides a way to alleviate their shame, and through Jesus Christ, we have been given the ultimate remedy for our shame. Do you bring the hope of Christ, or the shame of sin?

My God, My God why have you forsaken me?

While dying on the cross, Christ quoted Psalm 22. This Psalm described King David's suffering at the time of its writing, but also foretold the details of Christ's death. By living out the words of Psalm 22, Christ entered into David's suffering, and demonstrated that He would be able to enter into our suffering with us. 
 If you are feeling hopeless, consider letting this Psalm be your prayer.

Caring for the Cause

 God's care for His people is not always straightforward. After calling a drought on the land, Elijah suffered along with those he had cursed (1 Kings 7). God directed Elijah to a poor woman, whose suffering was undoubtedly increased by the drought. During this extreme time, she ensured the cause of  her increased suffering(Elijah) was given provision, and God blessed her for it in two unique ways.

Holding it together

Hebrews 1:1-3 tells us that was central to the creation of the universe and is still bearing the weight of all things. You might say he is holding everything together for us. Can you trust the one who holds all things to hold your life together and to give you grace to face each new personal crisis? 

All-encompassing awe

Isaiah 6 depicts God on his throne, surrounded by powerful beings who pale in contrast to the almighty. The first verse of this passage says the God's train, or part of his garment fill the temple. As God's presence fills the vision, there is no room for anything else. Does God's awe fill you today? Are you so in awe of God's power that everything else is pushed out of sight? What would that be like for you?

 

Blinded by power

 

Psalm 146 warns God's people not to trust in political power, but to trust God for all of our needs. Christians have often been tempted to compromise our core values of love, compassion, and caring to gain power over others. Can you think of a time you've been more interested in "winning" or gaining power than in reaching out to help others?

Preparing for the persecution

 In Luke 19, Jesus tells a strange story to prepare the disciples for the coming persecution the church would soon endure. The story reminds us of the importance of faith and of God's ability to provide for His people even when God seems far away. While most modern Christians do not suffer persecution like the early church, we all have felt seasons where God was distant and we needed faith to believe He cared.