One Generation Away

Daily Reading: Isaiah 59

Scripture Focus: “And as for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord: “My Spirit that is upon you, and my words that I have put in your mouth, shall not depart out of your mouth, or out of the mouth of your offspring, or out of the mouth of your children's offspring,” says the Lord, “from this time forth and forevermore.” (Isaiah 59.21)

Devotional Thought: I've often heard it said, "The Church is only one generation away from extinction."  I've always accepted the philosophical possibility of that, but it has seemed like a far-distant prospect, one that would never become a reality.  That is until recently.

Now, don't get me wrong.  I know that Jesus is building his Church and the gates of hell will never prevail against it, but my fear is that western civilization - nourished on the vine of the church for centuries - will sever its ties to the Church and the Church's Lord.  Recent history has only served to increase that fear. 

It has happened quickly.  In just a few short generations the Christian faith has become marginalized and demonized by an increasingly hostile culture.  The foundation of western civilization is now considered a threat to that civilization.

We need not despair.  God has made a covenant with us.  He will put his Spirit upon us.  Our faith will remain alive and vibrant and relevant - by his grace and by the Word of God.  But, it is up to us to know and treasure and obey that Word.  Do you have a plan to read and study God's Word? 

It must not stop with us, however.  We must teach it to our children, teach it in such a way that it becomes part of their vocabulary.  Our lives are directed by words, and what better word to share with our children than "The Word of Life"?  But, we must also teach them to share it with their offspring.  Here is where we ensure the life of the Church: Teaching our children not only to follow God but also how to teach their children how to teach their children how to teach their children...

Prayer: Lord, culture is coarsening and society is sliding.  And, while it seems that we are only one generation away from the demise of the church, I believe that we are only one generation away from revival and the greatest spiritual awakening in history!  I stand upon your Word, O Lord!  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 92.1-9

1 It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to your name, O Most High;

2 to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night,

3 to the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre.

4 For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.

5 How great are your works, O LORD! Your thoughts are very deep!

6 The stupid man cannot know; the fool cannot understand this:

7 that though the wicked sprout like grass and all evildoers flourish, they are doomed to destruction forever;

8 but you, O LORD, are on high forever.

9 For behold, your enemies, O LORD, for behold, your enemies shall perish; all evildoers shall be scattered.