Pray Acknowledging His Providence
Scripture Passage: Acts 1:21-26 (NASB)
21 Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us— 22 beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23 So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all people, show which one of these two You have chosen 25 to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.
SUMMARY
The remaining 11 apostles must appoint another apostle to replace Judas. They agree that the man should be one who was with Jesus from the time he was baptized to the day he died and resurrected, so that he could give testimony to Jesus’ resurrection. They nominated Joseph (also known as Barsabbas or Justus) and Matthias. The apostles prayed and casted lots. As a result, Matthias was chosen and became the twelfth disciple.
MEDITATION & REFLECTION
Today’s passage reminds me that when I face any decision, big or small, God’s providence will always stand. Every decision is actually up to God, and I must acknowledge this in my prayers and have confidence of this in my heart. Just as the disciples prepared with wisdom and prayer ahead of the decision, I must do the same. They also yielded the final decision to God, professing in their prayer that, “You, Lord, know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen…” (v. 24)
Comfort and peace abounds in the heart of a believer, knowing that the Lord, who is good and just, holds everything in His hands. To know that we are always within His providence helps us to make every decision with peace and confidence.
APPLICATION
I’ve been following the current events and prayer needs of our nation through the Nehemiah intercessory prayer group, which prays on behalf of our country. There are many dire matters we as Christians, need to be aware of and petition to God for his working. As I read this passage, I think of the recent presidential election and the result controversies we are still seeing months later, and there are many other national concerns that we must pray our leaders will make godly decisions. I want to be informed and aware. I ask God for His wisdom and what I can do on my part. I want my faith and confidence in my Father in Heaven to grow as I pray for these matters happening in our country.
I will remember and profess in my prayer that God ultimately decides all things. He is good, and He is in control of our country, my personal life as well. He reigns, and is Lord of all.
PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
I am blessed to know You are on Your throne and in control when it comes to all matters. Whether they are big or small decisions, matters that surround me or matters that are deeply personal to me, I am so comforted to know that everything is under Your care. You govern everything with love and justice. Thank you that I can rely on this truth as I pray and face any kind of decision or concern. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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