The Lord Hears The Needy

"But I pray to you, O LORD, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. Rescue me from the mire, do not let me sink; deliver me from those who hate me, from the deep waters. Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me" (Psalm 69:13-15).

Have you ever cried out in deep anguish to God? Has life darkened due to circumstances? King David who has the wealth, the power, the authority of Israel in his hands, cried out to God for all are subject to dark moments in life.  There is hope, prayer!

John Calvin at the request of Pastor John Farel took up a ministry in Geneva.  Geneva was not ready for the sobriety Calvin and Farel sought to impose. Geneva was a light-hearted city, full of singing and dancing.  It also brimmed with gambling, adultery, prostitution, and vice. Farel and Calvin led the City Council to issue laws prohibiting immorality, gambling, Sabbath-breaking, and foolish singing.  The council further ordered all citizens to embrace the Confession of Faith, and on November 12, 1537, it voted to banish everyone who didn't.

Unrest formed over the city like storm clouds, and loud complaints rocked a November 15 meeting of the general assembly.  In local elections the following February, the Libertine party gained ground.  Calvin and Farel, continuing to thunder from the pulpits, were warned not to meddle in politics.  They meddled anyway.

the storm struck on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1538.  Calvin preached in one church, Fare. in another Both refused to administer the Lord's Supper, saying the city could not possible partake of Communion under such conditions.  Pandemonium broke out, men drawing their swords, women gasping, children crying.  the preachers were hustled home under protection of friends.  The next day, April 22, 1538, the City Council met fired both preachers. and ordered them to leave town within three days.

"Very well," said Calvin, "it is better serve God than man."  He fled to Strasburg, married Idelette, and pastored a group of French evangelicals until the tide again shifted in Geneva.  By 1541 the time was ripe for Calvin and the Reformation to return, this time for good.

Men and women who love and served God throughout the centuries have made a huge difference in the world.  These men and women hold fast to the truth of God's word.  Many have entered the Kingdom of God because of their faithfulness and fearlessness to "obey God rather than man."  God works through people, to bring the Good News of eternal life through Jesus His Son. Even in dark times of life they persevered and they set the example for us to follow. 

No matter the situation you are in, know that God hears and answers prayers.  "The LORD hears the needy and does not despise his captive people" (Psalm 69:33).

Daily Prayer:

Father God You know my situation, You know my desires, and You are faithful to hear my prayer and petitions. It is in faith I come to You and bring these situations to You ________________.  Use me as you used others to bring to my world Jesus and His sacrifice for mine and their sins.  Thank You for being a loving and caring God.                                                                                                 Amen

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