Journal for June 2…Judgment

5:36 AM

Psalm 2

Lord, I suppose there's a part of us that wants no restraints placed on us, even when those retraints are good for us. The sin in me, the natural darkness that tries to overcome Your light in me, wants no rules, no laws, no overseer. It's Your love for me that brings the necessary guidelines and limitations … and they're all for my own good! Thank You, Father, for revealing Yourself to me. I would have never found You otherwise. And, thank You for revealing Your Son to me. While the nations rebel and try to throw off what seems to be Your retraints, I am grateful for the kindness that gives me limitations. It's like with a child: how often do parents guide, correct, discipline and enforce rules that are designed to protect the child, and yet the child rebels against it?

Your anointed One, Jesus Christ, could suddenly appear and judge the nations at anytime. I fear the judgment, and yet I don't have to because of the cross. Judgment against me has already been executed against Jesus. There is no way to get a grasp on that kind of love.

Lord God, I give You praise for Your rightful rule -- for Your great and highest position over all creation…Your creation. What is amazing to me is the grace and mercy that accompanies that power and authority. You are the perfect balance of judgment and mercy!

In the Name of Your awesome Son, Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen One, and in the power of His shed blood, I ask You for a hedge of protection around my family and church -- around my sphere of relationships. Help us do battle until the victory is made clear to all.

I am grateful for my salvation; my family -- wife, kids, mom and dad (who introduced me to You); my health; my ministry; my church…and my good looks LOL (which You could take away in a flash!). Thank You for giving me repeated chances to serve another day.

Be the Lord today. My tendency is toward mistakes and failure. Help me be second.