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Today's Scripture

" As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance." -2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 (NIV)

Additional Scripture

Ephesian 6:12 (NKJV)

Reflect on the Word

It is God's job to deliver us. It is our job to pray and ask for it. And though Paul asks for deliverance from wicked people, he says the Lord will protect us from the evil one. This is a reminder our protection is not against flash and blood-not even the flesh and blood of evil people-but the principalities and powers at work within them (Eph. 6:12). And God will protect us. But He will first strengthen us. So, when deliverance seems to tarry, trust that the pressure is directing you into God's love and forming Jesus' perseverance within you.

Prayer & Contemplation

  1. Where are you taking deliverance and protection into your own hands instead of trusting in god to bring it about in His timing? Confess and place it in God's hands.
  2. Are there people about whom God needs to remind you that your battle is not with them? Pray to see them as God sees them, and pray for their deliverance and protection, too.
  3. Pray to trust God as your deliverer, even amid painful trials and tribulations.