Isaiah 40:16

Sunday, August 16, 2020

“All the wood in Lebanon’s forests and all Lebanon’s animals would not be enough to make a burnt offering worthy of our God.”

Personal note: Why Lebanon’s forests and animals? I did a little digging. Lebanon is especially known for its cedar trees. Cedars are famous for their height, their ornamental shape, their fragrance and especially for strength. They are widely used in construction and furniture. In Lebanon the cedar is an important cultural statement of strength. It got me thinking that there really isn’t anything I have in the natural, but everything in my spirit that is a worthy offering for our God.

• Lord, please accept the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart as praise worthy of You. Cause my heart to sing a new song to you. (Psalm 19:14, Psalm 98:1)
• Thank You, Jesus, that I can continually offer a sacrifice of praise — even when I am hurt, wounded, or battered by challenges. YOU are my peace in the storm. My eyes are set on You.
• Your Word admonishes us to do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly. Forgive us, Lord when we have acted contrary to this. Encourage us to be courageous, to uphold Your truth, and draw out Your goodness in others. (Micah 6:8)
• Lord! Remove any bit of a King Saul-type nature in me. Give me grace to obey in the little things as well as the great. I acknowledge that to obey You is the greatest gift I can give You. (1 Sam 15:22)
• Soften my heart, cleanse my thoughts, open my eyes and ears, awaken me to areas that displease Your Holiness. You will not despise a broken and contrite spirit. (Psalm 51)
• Cause Your people to humble themselves to pray and seek Your face and ask forgiveness for our nation. A true repentant heart You will not deny. Break the back of this Corona Virus. Release Your healing virtue over our land. Cause our leaders to shake up and wake up to Your power and rule. Establish Your Kingdom in our hearts and from that place, ignite us to speak with clarity and power. May Your Kingdom come to our land, our cities, and our homes today that we might be a praise to You. (2 Chr 7:14)