All-Consuming

“Consumed” is a common theme of the human experience. We consume, we are consumed—this is the perpetual cycle. Both Jeremiah and the psalmist are consumed by grief and despair yet cry out to God for redemption. Instruction to Timothy reminds us that prayer can be an all-consuming force in our life. In Luke, Jesus uses a strange parable to warn about the all-consuming powers of seeking financial gain. In all circumstances we can choose to be consumed by God’s faithfulness, running to God in prayer and lament, reaching for God as our only lasting goodness. Pain, devastation, and temptation have the power to pull our gaze from God, quickly pulling our hearts from full devotion. But there is always a way back. In complete dependence, we lift our eyes and hands and ask for God’s mercy.

• Read Jeremiah 8:18–9:1. When have you experienced suffering so extreme you wished for more tears?
• Read Psalm 79:1-9. Recount a time when you were desperate for God’s deliverance. How did you balance your dual desire for God’s gentleness and God’s fiery anger?
• Read 1 Timothy 2:1-7. Name several people you know, or knew, who were people of prayer. What markers of peace, godliness, and dignity did they carry that exhibited their commitment to intercession for others?
• Read Luke 16:1-13. In what particular instances has God honored your small faithfulness by blessing you with more responsibilities and opportunities?