Back on Track

I have officially caught up and will only have to include today's readings!!!

Germany-
Has a declining population.  They had a dramatic recovery after World War II to become very strong economically.  There have been difficulties along the way, but they are very stable now with the exception of high unemployment especially in the east.  After Hitler's collapse, the country went through a few political parties but are now a strong democracy and active in the EU.  There is religious freedom, but not a lot of genuine faith.  Since 9/11 there is more interest in Christianity as an alternative to Islam.  Praise the Lord for some growing spirituality in Christians around the country, and for unity that is growing stronger.

2 Chronicles 17-18
The kings of Judah and Israel are talking together about going to fight against the Syrians.  The king of Israel has asked many prophets if they should go or not, but is hesitant to ask Micaiah because he never tells the king what he wants to hear.  The prophet says that they should not fight, but the kings go anyways and the king of Israel is killed.  I wonder why this king is not named?

Romans 9:25-10:13
God will save who He wants to save, no matter where they come from.  Righteousness is attained by faith, not by the law.  Works had become a stumbling block for the people.  "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." v. 4  Salvation is all about the heart- "if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." v.9  This is truth for everyone... "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." v. 13

Psalm 20
The first part of this psalm is like a prayer asking the Lord to take care of someone else.  Then David speaks about what he knows about the Lord and how He will answer.

Proverbs 20:2-3
It is not a good idea to provoke powerful people.  Fools quarrel.