This new day

It is an historic day in America, a day when our first African-American president takes his oath of office. A day in which many place their hope for their future success and prosperity and the prosperity of our country in the hands of a man. One man.

Yet, I know that ultimately it is God who is sovereign. God has a purpose through the presidency of Barack Obama, and He has a purpose for America. And whether Obama is a willing vessel or not, God can and will use him to further His purposes for humanity as a whole. We need to remember, however, that it is God who is in control. God has "pulled the financial rug out from under us" as Kay Arthur predicted in the Precepts video I watched this morning (recorded years ago). God has allowed and planned for this time in America's history. He knows the struggles of our nation, and the struggles of each individual. Yet He desires for us to do the one thing that will help - turn back to Him.

Yet we need to turn to Him alone, not Obama, or Rick Warren, our own pastors, or anyone else for our hope and purpose. God alone has the answers. God alone is in command, and it is through God alone that justice will one day reign and we will all be called to account for how we chose to spend our time here on this earth.

I found great encouragement in Obama's inaugural address today. I believe God will use him, and I pray that he is leaning on God's strength and wisdom for guidance in these times. None of us know what is coming, only God does. And He's far smarter than I am, so I will not question His timing or plans for our country.

I will, however, continue to pray.

I pray that the selfish greed that has America ensnared will be brought to light for what it is: sin. I pray that we learn to disagree and dialogue with each other in a civil and loving way, rather than bash each other for differing opinions. I pray for repentance of all for the ways which we have sought to serve ourselves and not God. I pray for forgiveness and mercy for the wrongs we have committed against each other and against God. I pray for guidance to understand more fully the identity I have found and that all can find in Jesus Christ alone. I pray for eyes to be opened and veils of selfishness and lies to be ripped away. I pray for more love and generosity to ooze out of my life and the lives of all who know the saving grace of Jesus Christ, so that no one can deny its power or truth. And I pray all of it in the name of the One who is the Savior, Righteous One, Lover of my soul, and Hearer of my prayers, Jesus. Amen.