Romans 1:32 Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

It’s not pleasant to read the second half of the first chapter of Romans, precisely because it seems to be an all-too-accurate and detailed description of modern society, particularly in the US. It’s heart breaking, as well as disgusting. As it says in verse 22, people are busily proclaiming themselves wise and “enlightened,” all the while becoming more and more incredibly foolish. The seeds for this were sown with Darwin, when his ideas were seized on as a way to get around the existence of God, and our accountability toward Him. Now, the very people who insist that people who believe in the Creator who loved us enough to send His Son are “deluded bigots” are championing practices that result in the total destruction of society. There is no internal consistency to the mind that is in rebellion against God. All that believing people can do is pray the Lord’s Prayer in honesty and sincerity, offering themselves as instruments for God’s will to be done, bringing His kingdom for His glory.

If it weren’t for the Internet, I would be in blissful ignorance of the vast majority of the junk that is going on in the world today. That tells me two things: I can’t fix it myself, and I need to pray and trust the only One who can fix it. I’ll never forget the time I was lying in bed, not consciously praying, but just thinking, “There are so many things I wish were different.” God spoke to me very clearly then, only the second time He has ever spoken to me so clearly, and said, “How do you think I feel?” That helped me understand a little more of the magnificence of God’s plan, in which He allows us genuine free will so that some, at least, will choose Him on their own, not as subservient puppets but as His children. It is real comfort that the Bible makes it clear that this state of affairs won’t go on forever, and frankly, the news that comes in daily makes me cry out, Maranatha, indeed. (1 Corinthians 16:22) However, I’m not to focus on the negative, or even on how long we might have left, but be faithful at the tasks the Lord has set for me. I can accomplish nothing on my own, but if I stay yielded to Christ, He can do great and mighty things through me, for the salvation of many and for His glory.

Father, thank You for all You allow me to do. Thank You for using me as Your agent to my students yesterday morning, just as I had asked, and for the privilege of ministering to the couple at the hospital yesterday afternoon. Thank You for Your plans for today. May I rest, relax, and rejoice in You every moment of this day, trusting You with the universe, because it is Yours, and You are more than able to take care of it all. Thank You. Praise God!