READING: Psalms 97-103, 1 Corinthians 6:1-7:16
It’s easy to assume that the Old Testament speaks little about God’s heart for the nations, primarily because almost every sermon we’ve ever heard about the Great Commission has been based on a New Testament text. After all, the Old Testament is only about Israel, correct?
Just a cursory reading of today’s Old Testament texts, though, shows us God’s global focus. Review these texts with me, and consider God’s reach to the ends of the earth:
- “The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coasts and islands be glad.” (Psa 97:1)
- “The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord—at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.” (Psa 97:5)
- “The heavens proclaim his righteousness; all the peoples see his glory.” (Psa 97:6)
- “For you, Lord, are the Most High over the whole earth; you are exalted above all the gods.” (Psa 97:9)
- “. . . all the ends of the earth have seen our God’s victory. Let the whole earth shout to the Lord; be jubilant, shout for joy, and sing.” (Psa 98:3-4)
- “Let the whole earth shout triumphantly to the Lord!” (Psa 100:1)
- “Then the nations will fear the name of the Lord, and all the kings of the earth your glory.” (Psa 102:15)
What more need I say? The God of the Bible is the same God throughout the Bible. He is worthy of praise among the nations—and it is our responsibility to take His message to the ends of the earth!
PRAYER: “Father, break my heart over the world today. Make my heart Yours.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Listen to the news today, and pray for one nation and its people.
TOMORROW’S READING: Weekend is for catch-up and review
MONDAY’S READING: Psalms 104-105, 1 Corinthians 7:17-8:13
