As we look at our world today, we see the evidence of fear as major events all over the world are being cancelled or restricted because of the coronavirus.
Obviously we need to pray!
We pray protection over the medical staff who treat and serve patients who are infected, as well as for the efforts of those who are seeking to isolate and prevent the further spreading of the virus.
As we look closer to home, we see the evidence of anger and frustration as protesters continue to block streets and railroad tracks. Obviously we need to pray!
We pray that the leaders on both sides of these contentious issues will be given the desire and the wisdom to find a solution that would work best for all Canadians.
We also pray for the many who have been laid off by companies adversely impacted by the blockades.
Yet in the midst of the fear and frustration, I pray there will also be a growing longing and expectation for the Lord to do a great work in our nation! To do for us what Moses prayed for in Psalm 90:16-17.
“Let us, your servants see you work again; let our children see your glory. And may the Lord our God show us His approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful.”
1. Moses reminds us that the Lord is our God and we are His servants. As believers we have the awesome privilege of praying to and getting to know God’s heart! In the midst of uncertainty and change, there is a peace and comfort in knowing that we belong to Him!
2. Moses witnessed God do some tremendous miracles in Egypt, however he wasn’t content to simply remember the things God did in the past. Rather he pleads for a fresh move of the Spirit, so that his children and grandchildren would know from experience and not just reputation that our God is an awesome God!
3. Lastly, Moses asks the Lord to show His approval by making our efforts successful. Naturally, the deeds and motives which reflect the character qualities of God would then be the ones He can bless.
God’s approval often involves divine guidance or divine provision. At other times it may be more subjective. There will be a peace in our hearts or a unity among family members or co-workers. But regardless of how God chooses to let us know that He is pleased, we all look forward to the day when He will say ‘well done, good and faithful servant.’
After all those years wandering around in the wilderness, Moses is determined to ask the Lord to help the next generation successfully enter the Promised Land! He wants them to know God’s power, to experience God’s presence and to live in His blessing. I pray the same for Canada!