40 Days of Prayer and Fasting 2006 - Day 25

Focus: Perspective
By Patrik Bergström, IOC


Scripture Reference:

“Jesus once again addressed them: ‘I am the world’s Light. No one who follows me stumbles around in the darkness. I provide plenty of light to live in….You decide according to what you can see and touch. I don't make judgments like that. But even if I did, my judgment would be true because I wouldn't make it out of the narrowness of my experience but in the largeness of the One who sent me, the Father’”(John 8:12, 15–16).


Devotional:

In this text Jesus is speaking to his “favorite” audience, the Pharisees. He is trying to help them to broaden their perspective. He is talking about a different way to make decisions, to judge situations not only based on what their senses can register but also on the perspective that the Father wants to give them. The Father wants to be personally involved in their lives, broaden their experience, and provide His perspective on the situations they find themselves in.

Personally I have to admit that I can easily get stuck in only relying on my own previous experiences and any wisdom I have gained in the past. When I apply those to new situations, it is many times obvious that I need fresh insight and a better solution. It is therefore very encouraging for me to hear Jesus talk about and, I believe, invite us to gain a broader perspective from the Father.

I don’t know what your tendency is or what situation you are facing today, but may I encourage you to take your past experiences, your current situation, and insights you have gained and hold them out to the Father? Ask that the Light of the world would illuminate it all, bring clarity, and add His perspective to give you an understanding of the best way forward. As you do that, you can be assured that His kingdom will be expanded and His will done!

Prayer Points:
* Thank the Father for his constant pursuit of us and our wellbeing.
* Ask Him to broaden your perspective and understanding of the situation you are facing.
* Pray for our leaders as they continue to seek access to His perspective.
* Pray that His kingdom will be expanded and His will done throughout Mercy Ships and in the lives of the people we seek to serve.