June 26

2 Kings 9:14-10:31, Acts 17:1-34, Psalm 144:1-15, Proverbs 17:27-28



Pray: Begin praying against passivity. Pray for the wisdom to recognize the enemy of your soul and the courage to fight. Meditate on the truth that “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 NLT

Read: Today’s reading makes it clear that God’s purposes and His gospel can be disruptive when there is evil, deception, and self-serving power structures in place. This is true at a societal level as both Jehu and Paul demonstrate, but also at a personal heart level as well. This is why followers of Jesus continually “kill” the deeds of the flesh (Romans 8:13) with Jesus’ forgiveness to continue to live in His freedom and power. 

Edify: In 2 Kings 9:22b Jehu replies, “How can there be peace as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother, Jezebel, are all around us?” In other words, peace reigns in our lives when our worship is rightly directed to Jesus. This is why peace is a gift and fruit of the Spirit of God. Further, we see Paul and Silas bringing the Gospel to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens and immediately “disturb” the religious, political, and academic power structures. In order to find peace at both a personal and societal level, the Gospel of Jesus disturbs those things that have a stronghold. It’s the only pathway to lasting peace and freedom. The Great Commission is not comfortable, passive, or for spectators but requires activity, courage, and the will to contend.

Practice: Ask God for an area both personally and on behalf of others in which you need to fight. The Psalmist makes it clear that God is our rock, our ally, our rescuer, our trainer for fighting, our shield, and our delight. The truth is, we never experience the fullness of this delight that is offered until we take risks and lovingly fight for others. Who will you fight for today and bring truth and love?