READING: Psalms 96-102
God loves the nations. Because He does, we must, too. It’s really that simple.
I know some churches that do nothing regarding international missions, even though every church can do something. I know other churches that participate a bit in missions, but more out of obligation (almost begrudgingly) than out of love for the peoples of the world. Then, I’m aware of some churches whose heart just beats for the nations. It’s the latter church that comes closest to the heart of God, revealed often in the psalms we read together today.
- “Sing to the Lord, all the earth . . . Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among the peoples” (Psalm 96:1, 3)
- “Say among the nations, ’The Lord reigns’” (Psalm 96:10)
- “The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice” (Psalm 97:1)
- “The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations” (Psalm 98:2)
- “Great is the Lord in Zion; he is exalted over all the nations. Let them praise your great and awesome name” (Psalm 99:2-3)
- “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth” (Psalm 100:1)
Last month, I was with believers in Ukraine who are seeking to plant churches in as many places as they can. I write this devotion from a room in Brazil, where last night I knelt with Brazilian believers who recognize their own responsibility to get the gospel to the nations. God is calling the nations to Himself so they might direct other nations to Him. He is spreading His glory around the world.
How can we not want to play a part in this work?
ACTION STEPS:
- If you’ve not been involved much in international missions, ask God to direct you to someone who can show you how to get involved.
- Listen to the news today, and pray for the peoples around the world who are experiencing hardship. Pray they will see His glory.
PRAYER: “Lord, show me how I might be used so the distant shores rejoice over You.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 103-105
