4th. April. 2022. Daily Devotion.
See, a king will reign in righteousness and rulers will rule with justice.2 Each one will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land. Isaiah 32:1-2
The idea of a ruler who in righteousness and with justice provides shelter, safety, and refreshment for his or her people, has been a pipe dream for many in human history. Rulers often seek only their own glory and advancement over the welfare of their people.
In Isaiah 32, God shares a wonderful announcement. This comes amid warnings to God’s people, who have turned away from him to rely on the power of other nations (see Isaiah 28-31). But even though the people have been unfaithful, Isaiah reminds them that God has promised a kingdom of righteousness.
Today we know that the King who “will reign in righteousness” is Jesus, and leaders who follow his ways will rule with justice. This means that everyone—young and old, men and women, parents, and children—all will be able to flourish and learn and grow in peace.
God’s kingdom is a refuge from the storms and troubles of life. The Saviour, Jesus, has given us new life and promises it “to the full” (John 10:10). We need not fear or dread the future. Families and communities can thrive. And our King invites us to welcome others in from the storm.
Lord, King, and Saviour, you are our refuge and strength. You care for us with love and compassion. Help us to care for and love others as you have done for us. Amen.
We turn to you, O Crucified Redeemer; converted through your cross, conquering in its sign, transformed by its grace, and dying beneath its shadow. Amen. William of Saint-Thierry (c.1085-1148)
Living Lord, stir us up and inspire us through your Spirit to be a people of passion. Make us passionate about sharing your love; make us passionate about welcoming outsiders; make us passionate about helping people in financial need; make us passionate about living out your kingdom values. May we follow Jesus’ example in all we do and may we make a difference in our communities and in the world. Amen.
For our Nation
Almighty God, Ruler of all the peoples of the earth, we implore You to forgive our shortcomings as a nation. Purify our hearts to see and love the truth, give wisdom to our leaders and steadfastness to our people, and keep this nation in your tender care during these difficult times, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
For Refuge
Oh God, who has been the refuge of my fathers through many generations, be my refuge today in every time and circumstance of need. Be my guide through all that is dark and doubtful. Be my guard against all that threatens my spirit’s welfare. Be my strength in time of testing. Gladden my heart with your peace, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen. John Baillie, 1942