THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Monday January 15. 2024

Lord, today, thousands of Iowans will plow through harsh winter elements to go to their community centers, schools, and churches to cast their ballot in the GOP presidential primary. These hardy Iowans bundle up like Ralphie in Christmas Story, blow enough snow off their driveways to cover a romantic Hallmark movie village, risk roads iceier than Rockefeller Center—just to make their voices heard.

Oh, Lord, that your followers would have that same tenacity to share your message of forgiveness, love, and a new life. You have given us a message of hope the world needs to hear, but the forces of darkness go to great links to shut us down. They have for centuries. Jesus, I’ve read and studied your Word, and I’ve yet to see where you said everyone would welcome us sharing this gospel with them.

Ancient Romans fed believers to the lions in the Colosseum. Many lost everything and were scattered to desolate lands. Beatings and imprisonments were common, which many considered a badge of honor (Philippians 1:29). Today, in Nigeria, China, and other regions around the globe, Christ followers are persecuted and slaughtered. Yet, you give your followers a boldness that is not their own, This power to face adversity comes directly from you, Jesus, our risen Savior (Romans 8:11).

Lord, you are always with us. May this unbelieving world see our lives as a living story of your grace and power when we face opposition in this broken world. And may the desire to hear our message. Amen, Jesus.