September 11

Today's Reading

This day will remain etched on our souls as the day that in many ways changed everything for our generation. What didn't change, unfortunately, is America's headlong rush into sin. We rose up in defiance against our enemies, but we didn't repent. Would you join me in pray for repentance in our land?

Isaiah prophesied judgment which was coming in Israel. In Chapter 9, he spoke of how his nation would rise up to rebuild after a great defeat at the hands of her enemies. Their rebuilding, however, was to be short-lived because they were doing it in their own strength without turning to God. The prophecy was clear: God would just send a stronger enemy and bring them down.

2 Corinthians. Paul himself was mystified at what God had shown him. He didn't know if he was literally caught up to see behind the veil into heaven or if it was a vision. He just knew that it was so glorious that God wanted him to stay humble. His "thorn in the flesh" taught him about God's power in the midst of weakness. A great lesson!

Psalms. David experienced the pain of betrayal. So did Jesus. It is a fire that teaches a person how to fully trust God with her or his life. This Psalm closes with the promise, "22 Give your burdens to the Lord,
and he will take care of you.
He will not permit the godly to slip and fall." I loved seeing that verse in contrast with today's reading in Proverbs.

Proverbs. I personally think it is a gift from God when my careful financial planning hits a wall. It is wise to store up for later times. It is foolish to depend on my own financial resources. God is ALWAYS the provider!

What insights did you gain today?