Without God It's a World of Woe
Scripture Reading — 2 Chronicles 15:1-7
For a long time Israel was without the true God…
2 Chronicles 15:3
Take a few moments to reflect on your life. What really good things have happened to you? Whatever they are, I rejoice with you today.
Isn’t it also true that many sad things have happened to you? Whatever they are, I grieve with you. Christians care for one another—especially when times are tough.
Long ago in Israel things were bad, really bad. Why? Because, ironically, God’s people tried to live without the true God. But life without God led to disaster. Similarly, a life that marginalizes God does not work well for anyone today. People can go for a while without God, but in the end their lives will be in turmoil, just as in ancient Israel.
The Bible says that because of life without God, it was not safe on the streets. People could not travel around safely. Nations were trying to crush each other.
Does that sound familiar? It sounds like the news we hear each day. So often the news is full of crime, accidents, war, and worry. That’s a picture of life in a world that thinks it can do without God.
Thankfully Christians can take time any day to think of God their Creator and Sustainer. Psalm 46:1 states, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Be sure to stay close to God. He will help you. Just ask and trust.
Thank you, dear God, for being my refuge and strength in this troubled world. Thank you for your blessings in good times and in bad times. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Jack Gray
Jack Gray recently retired after forty years as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church. During that time he served seven churches from coast to coast in the United States. He and his wife, Wanda, have four sons and three grandchildren. They also have ministered to 44 foster children. This month’s devotions are inspired by his reflections on time at this transition in his life.
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