How now shall we live

1 Timothy 2:1-4 (ESV)

1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

The glorification of "Evil" in our media and celebrations today are blessings in disguise. It’s a megaphone to our deaf ears concerning the present invisible and visible reality of forces of evil that are working all around us. Rather than seeing the world as something to be afraid of, condemn, or even worse, mindlessly participate in as if it’s not significant in any way, let’s perceive the opportunity to engage the world with the beauty of Jesus.

As we read our verses today we are to be encouraged toward engaging evil with the gospel; not necessarily through loud displays of spiritual warfare, but through fervent submissive prayer and trust in Jesus’ intercession on our behalf; through Holy living, imitating Christ, service, repentance of sin, and obedience to Jesus. Though the Devil prowls around like a roaring lion seeking to devour all that Christ loves, we must remember that the Lion of Judah—Jesus—has given us the power through his Spirit to resist evil’s advance. In Jesus we come out victorious.

Spend time thanking God for his power over evil, but at the same time recognize its effects around you, in your temptations, and through your sinful flesh.

Pray with me each and every day when it comes to evil—our battle with our flesh and temptation—and our ability to deal with the world, would be the same as that of Paul in Romans 8:5, 15:13: “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit … may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

Dear Lord, help us to set our minds on the things of You.  We pray that You will fill us with Your joy and peace as we face the things of the world. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.