Devotion
Kingdoms of man destroyed;
kingdoms of God , everlasting
David Jacobs
So many countries and empires have risen and fallen but at their height thought that their reigns would never end. In hindsight they may seem so foolish, but at the time, who could blame them for thinking this? Even today, certain global powers expect to be on top forever, but once they start thinking like this is usually about the time they start declining. "18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)
Assyria was a dominant force in the Middle East, conquering any nation that opposed them. Here, Hezekiah appeals to the Lord, praying to Him and asking them to be protected. Not much needs to be said about this prayer. It is beautiful and simple, sincere and powerful. Read and comprehend the meaning, and go forward with a better understanding of God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, ruler of Heaven and Earth, creator of Heaven and Earth, your humble servant comes to you in prayer. Father, I ask that you forgive those that think they are on the same level as you. I know, and all will know, that you are the one true God. I pray that you keep us safe in these uncertain times, my Lord, calming the hearts of those who wish to see others perish. I pray this in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Night Prayer
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Inspiration
We despise the thought of a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. The outside is easy to clean; it's the caked-up residue on the inside that's so difficult to remove. Jesus compares the scribes and Pharisees with dishes that have been wiped clean on the outside while dirty inside. The Pharisees took exceptional care of their outward appearance and neglected their inward spirits. We are guilty of allowing our hearts to be left filthy as well. We look and act as we should while our souls are full of darkness. We must continue to converse with the Holy Spirit daily and trust His guidance to cleanse our sinful nature.
Prayer
Dear God, Please forgive our sinful nature. We yearn for cleansing from within, so we are genuine witnesses to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
