Beyond the Weekend

March 31 | Petition for Life

March 31, 2021

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. Psalm 22:11

Read: Psalm 22:1–10
Listen: 
Psalm 22

TODAY’S MESSAGE

David’s situation appears hopeless. He suffers physical anguish and exposure. His emotions hit rock bottom, and enemies prey upon him from all sides. He sees no hope of relief. David repeatedly asks God for his deliverance and presence. He hears nothing—but persists in pleading for God’s help.

Sometimes situations supersede our faith. Doctors say there’s nothing more they can do. Our family feels too fractured ever to heal. A year of job interviews ends without any offers. We ask God for answers, but nothing changes. We wonder if God is sick of our asking for the same thing again and again and again.

Jesus teaches us that praying about a situation does make a difference, whether or not we see results. In Luke 18:1-7, Jesus reveals the power of persistent prayer through a parable. A widow pleads to a wicked judge for justice. She shows up again and again, begging for his mercy until the judge relents. Jesus seems to say if she can persist with a corrupt judge, how much more should we plead our case with the righteous judge—God the Father.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

What situation have you given up praying about? Take time to bring it to God again today. Write Psalm 22:19 on a card or type it in your mobile device. “But you, Lord, do not be far from me. You are my strength; come quickly to help me.” Pray this verse whenever the situation comes to mind. Download our lock screen from Monday as a reminder.


NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN

Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.

Today’s reading is Luke 19.

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