Time Out for God

Devotional Ministry

By Danna Appleby

Immovable

Let nothing move you.  1 Cor. 15:58 (NIV)

Our nation has many concerns these days.  Many are losing money in the stock market.  Many are in turmoil over everything from gas prices to who will be the next President and Vice President. The fact on that issue is that most are anything but united in their persuasions in these United States . 

A major concern for me has to do with the endless slaughter of the innocent unborn and I can’t keep from wondering how long God will continue to bless our nation.   

Another concern has to do with the endless flow of pagan worshipping individuals coming into the country.  And right with them come their idols!  I’ve walked into some of their businesses and seen their shrines. 

I say this not to cast stones, but say so because our country was founded upon Christian principles and by God-fearing individuals who believed that the Word of God was indeed Truth.  Idol worship was not even in the equation with the early settlers. 

It might serve us well to have a history lesson on how our great nation came into existence. Christopher Columbus wrote in 1504 that he prayed to the most merciful Lord about his heart’s desire and that it was the Lord who put it in his mind to possibly sail from Spain .  He also said there was no question that he was “under inspiration of the Holy Spirit.”

The Pilgrims fled England in 1620 for a haven called the New World. They came to worship freely and no longer suffer persecution, which they knew all too well. Those brave souls sacrificed much, including loss of loved ones due to bitter cold, starvation and disease, but came to have liberty to worship their God in the way they had only dreamed about.

Over a hundred years later, on June 1, 1774 George Washington made an entry in his diary that he “went to church and fasted all day.”  That gives us an indication that he indeed believed in the power of petitioning God for his needs, as well as those of the country.

Washington and the Continental Congress had their first official prayer on September 7, 1774, in Carpenter’s Hall, Philadelphia .  Also on that day, a minister read Psalm 35.  I’ve seen a copy of the painting memorializing this great event and it is most impressive.  Kneeling there in prayer were Washington and all members of Congress.

Afterwards, John Adams wrote a letter to his wife saying that he “saw tears gush into the eyes of the old, grave, Pacific Quakers.” Adams said it “would have melted a heart of stone.”  He also begged his wife to read Psalm 35 because it had meant so much to him.

During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln called people to fasting and prayer on three occasions.  He knew that the nation was split right down the middle and needed help from Sovereign God for peace and unity. 

We can see from these accounts that this country was founded on prayer, fasting and worship of God the Father, the Great I Am, and no other. 

One morning as I went to prayer concerning our nation, the Lord spoke sweetly to my spirit:

“Let nothing move you.” 1 Cor. 15:58 (NIV)

With that Word from the Lord I was given complete direction not to allow anything to move me from my belief in God and the beliefs I held so dear in my heart.  Just knowing that He would surely protect me no matter what comes my way, meant everything.  Had God ever failed me?  No, never!   

I have never seen the righteous forsaken nor their seed begging bread.  Ps. 37:25

We must not let anything move us from standing strong in the face of adversity.  We must continue standing upon the Solid Rock, which is Christ Jesus, our Lord.  As the song goes “all other ground is sinking sand.” 

We can be torn over many issues, but I urge you to continue standing strong for your God.  Let nothing move you.  Let nothing change your belief in Almighty God no matter what politicians say.  No matter if your minister changes his mind and goes another direction other than the right one, don’t follow him.  Follow after the Master and His teachings and you cannot and will not go wrong. 

Worrying over the future may be your favorite pastime, but we must remember that God’s pattern has always been to take His children out of harm’s way before destruction occurs.  Before God caused the rain to come and the Great Flood to cover the earth, He proved His faithfulness and took Noah and his family out of harm’s way.  He also protected Lot and his family when He rained down fire and brimstone from heaven to destroy the wicked people in Sodom and Gomorrah.  We can see from both accounts that these families were kept safe under the wings of their Savior.

We can be sure that the Lord will be faithful and totally immovable in every situation concerning his children. Be assured that He will never change.  He will not fail or forsake you and protects those who are His.  Just as our Lord is immovable, may it be so for you and me. 

These Things are True of You

Words and Music by Tommy Walker

Unshakable, immovable, faithful and true

Full of wisdom, strength and beauty

These things are true of You

Yes, these things are true of You

Fearless, courageous, righteousness shines through in all You do
Yet You’re so humble, You laid down Your life
These things are true of You

(Chorus)
And as I turn my face to You,

Oh Lord, I ask and pray
By the power of Your love and grace
Make these things true of me, too
    Make these things true of me, too

Would you consider forwarding this message?  Thanks!