Daily Devotion
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"For it is not an enemy who reproaches me, then I could bear it; nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me, then I could hide myself from him. But it is you, a man my equal, my companion and my familiar friend. We who had sweet fellowship together, walked in the house of God in the throng." - Psalm 55:12
JESUS UNDERSTANDS BETRAYAL
October 26, 2015
Imagine that you have a co-worker, a dear friend with whom you’ve been working for many years. You spend a lot of time together; you have traveled together. You’ve had a lot of meals together, and you’ve shared secrets with one another. Perhaps the friend is a fellow church member, and you may have spent time praying together. Then you find out that your “friend” has schemed behind the scenes to get you eliminated from your job so he or she could take it. Think about the sense of betrayal you would feel. What would be your first reaction? Would it be to lash out at your friend? What should be your first reaction? Follow the example of David. When David experienced that same betrayal from his personal aide, he openly poured out his heart to God. He shared this pain with God, his best friend, his Lord. God helps us forgive former friends who have betrayed us.
Always know that Jesus can identify with your pain of betrayal. Remember that He poured His life into twelve men, even one by the name of Judas. When you are going through a time of crisis, be open and honest with God about your feelings. He knows what you’re feeling anyway. Nothing is going to surprise Him! Nothing at all. But He wants to set us free from the bitterness and resentment and hatred that betrayal brings. Ask Him for His help today.
JESUS UNDERSTANDS BETRAYAL
October 26, 2015
Imagine that you have a co-worker, a dear friend with whom you’ve been working for many years. You spend a lot of time together; you have traveled together. You’ve had a lot of meals together, and you’ve shared secrets with one another. Perhaps the friend is a fellow church member, and you may have spent time praying together. Then you find out that your “friend” has schemed behind the scenes to get you eliminated from your job so he or she could take it. Think about the sense of betrayal you would feel. What would be your first reaction? Would it be to lash out at your friend? What should be your first reaction? Follow the example of David. When David experienced that same betrayal from his personal aide, he openly poured out his heart to God. He shared this pain with God, his best friend, his Lord. God helps us forgive former friends who have betrayed us.
Always know that Jesus can identify with your pain of betrayal. Remember that He poured His life into twelve men, even one by the name of Judas. When you are going through a time of crisis, be open and honest with God about your feelings. He knows what you’re feeling anyway. Nothing is going to surprise Him! Nothing at all. But He wants to set us free from the bitterness and resentment and hatred that betrayal brings. Ask Him for His help today.
Don’t Touch the Fence!
October 29, 2015
Read: Jeremiah 18:1-12 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 18–19; 2 Timothy 3
The Lord . . . sent word to them . . . again and again, because he had pity on his people. 2 Chronicles 36:15
As a young girl I went with my parents to visit my great-grandmother, who lived near a farm. Her yard was enclosed by an electric fence, which prevented cows from grazing on her grass. When I asked my parents if I could play outside, they consented, but explained that touching the fence would result in an electric shock.
Unfortunately I ignored their warning, put a finger to the barbed wire, and was zapped by an electrical current strong enough to teach a cow a lesson. I knew then that my parents had warned me because they loved me and didn’t want me to get hurt.
God's warnings are proof of His #compassion for us.
When God saw the ancient Israelites in Jerusalem crafting and worshiping idols, He “sent word to them . . . again and again, because he had pity on his people” (2 Chron. 36:15). God spoke through the prophet Jeremiah, but the people said, “We will continue with our own plans” (Jer. 18:12). Because of this, God allowed Nebuchadnezzar to destroy Jerusalem and capture most of its inhabitants.
Maybe God is warning you today about some sin in your life. If so, be encouraged. That is proof of His compassion for us (Heb. 12:5-6). He sees what’s ahead and wants us to avoid the problems that will come.
Lord, give me the ability to hear not just Your words but also Your heart. Help me to learn from the mistakes of those whose stories You have given us. Help me to honor You with my life.
God’s warnings are to protect us, not to punish us.
INSIGHT:
We sometimes wonder whether God can change His mind. Today’s passage in the book of Jeremiah helps us answer this question. God tells Jeremiah that sometimes His actions are affected by our actions. God has decided to act in certain ways depending on how we act. This is God’s freedom. He is not changing His mind; He has simply determined how He will respond to our stubbornness or our repentance. We don’t determine what God will do; in His goodness He has told us how He will respond to us. J.R. Hudberg
October 29, 2015
Read: Jeremiah 18:1-12 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 18–19; 2 Timothy 3
The Lord . . . sent word to them . . . again and again, because he had pity on his people. 2 Chronicles 36:15
As a young girl I went with my parents to visit my great-grandmother, who lived near a farm. Her yard was enclosed by an electric fence, which prevented cows from grazing on her grass. When I asked my parents if I could play outside, they consented, but explained that touching the fence would result in an electric shock.
Unfortunately I ignored their warning, put a finger to the barbed wire, and was zapped by an electrical current strong enough to teach a cow a lesson. I knew then that my parents had warned me because they loved me and didn’t want me to get hurt.
God's warnings are proof of His #compassion for us.
When God saw the ancient Israelites in Jerusalem crafting and worshiping idols, He “sent word to them . . . again and again, because he had pity on his people” (2 Chron. 36:15). God spoke through the prophet Jeremiah, but the people said, “We will continue with our own plans” (Jer. 18:12). Because of this, God allowed Nebuchadnezzar to destroy Jerusalem and capture most of its inhabitants.
Maybe God is warning you today about some sin in your life. If so, be encouraged. That is proof of His compassion for us (Heb. 12:5-6). He sees what’s ahead and wants us to avoid the problems that will come.
Lord, give me the ability to hear not just Your words but also Your heart. Help me to learn from the mistakes of those whose stories You have given us. Help me to honor You with my life.
God’s warnings are to protect us, not to punish us.
INSIGHT:
We sometimes wonder whether God can change His mind. Today’s passage in the book of Jeremiah helps us answer this question. God tells Jeremiah that sometimes His actions are affected by our actions. God has decided to act in certain ways depending on how we act. This is God’s freedom. He is not changing His mind; He has simply determined how He will respond to our stubbornness or our repentance. We don’t determine what God will do; in His goodness He has told us how He will respond to us. J.R. Hudberg
The Storms of Life
October 30, 2015
Read: Mark 4:35–5:1 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 20–21; 2 Timothy 4
http://odb.org/wp-content/themes/odbm-base/assets/download.php?file=http://cdn.rbc.org/odb/2015/10/odb-10-30-15.mp3
You may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith . . . may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
In the book of Mark we read about a terrible storm. The disciples were with Jesus on a boat crossing the Sea of Galilee. When a “furious squall came up,” the disciples—among them some seasoned fishermen—were afraid for their lives (4:37-38). Did God not care? Weren’t they handpicked by Jesus and closest to Him? Weren’t they obeying Jesus who told them to “go over to the other side”? (v. 35). Why, then, were they going through such a turbulent time?
No one is exempt from the storms of life. But just as the disciples who initially feared the storm later came to revere Christ more, so the storms we face can bring us to a deeper knowledge of God. “Who is this,” the disciples pondered, “even the wind and the waves obey him!” (v. 41). Through our trials we can learn that no storm is big enough to prevent God from accomplishing His will (5:1).
While we may not understand why God allows trials to enter our lives, we thank Him that through them we can come to know who He is. We live to serve Him because He has preserved our lives.
Lord, I know I don’t need to fear the storms of life around me. Help me to be calm because I stand secure in You.
The storms of life prove the strength of our anchor.
INSIGHT:
In Mark 4:35–5:43 the gospel writer tells of four miracles to prove that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of God” and therefore has absolute authority over the forces of this physical world (4:35-41), over the powers of the spiritual world (5:1-20), over physical illnesses (5:24-34), and over death (5:35-43). These miracles were designed to answer the question, “Who is this?” (4:41). The first miracle was Jesus calming the storm on Galilee. Because the Sea of Galilee is in a basin about 700 feet below sea level and is surrounded by mountains, sudden and violent storms are common (v. 37). That Jesus was tired and soundly asleep showed that He was fully human (v. 38); that the storm instantly obeyed Him showed He was divine (v. 39). Sim Kay Tee
October 30, 2015
Read: Mark 4:35–5:1 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 20–21; 2 Timothy 4
http://odb.org/wp-content/themes/odbm-base/assets/download.php?file=http://cdn.rbc.org/odb/2015/10/odb-10-30-15.mp3
You may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith . . . may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7
In the book of Mark we read about a terrible storm. The disciples were with Jesus on a boat crossing the Sea of Galilee. When a “furious squall came up,” the disciples—among them some seasoned fishermen—were afraid for their lives (4:37-38). Did God not care? Weren’t they handpicked by Jesus and closest to Him? Weren’t they obeying Jesus who told them to “go over to the other side”? (v. 35). Why, then, were they going through such a turbulent time?
No one is exempt from the storms of life. But just as the disciples who initially feared the storm later came to revere Christ more, so the storms we face can bring us to a deeper knowledge of God. “Who is this,” the disciples pondered, “even the wind and the waves obey him!” (v. 41). Through our trials we can learn that no storm is big enough to prevent God from accomplishing His will (5:1).
While we may not understand why God allows trials to enter our lives, we thank Him that through them we can come to know who He is. We live to serve Him because He has preserved our lives.
Lord, I know I don’t need to fear the storms of life around me. Help me to be calm because I stand secure in You.
The storms of life prove the strength of our anchor.
INSIGHT:
In Mark 4:35–5:43 the gospel writer tells of four miracles to prove that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of God” and therefore has absolute authority over the forces of this physical world (4:35-41), over the powers of the spiritual world (5:1-20), over physical illnesses (5:24-34), and over death (5:35-43). These miracles were designed to answer the question, “Who is this?” (4:41). The first miracle was Jesus calming the storm on Galilee. Because the Sea of Galilee is in a basin about 700 feet below sea level and is surrounded by mountains, sudden and violent storms are common (v. 37). That Jesus was tired and soundly asleep showed that He was fully human (v. 38); that the storm instantly obeyed Him showed He was divine (v. 39). Sim Kay Tee
Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard. —nkjv Ecclesiastes 9:17
My niece’s husband recently wrote these words on a social media site: “I would say a lot more online if it weren’t for this little voice that prompts me not to. As a follower of Jesus, you might think that little voice is the Holy Spirit. It isn’t. It’s my wife, Heidi.”
With the smile comes a sobering thought. The cautions of a discerning friend can reflect the wisdom of God. Ecclesiastes 9 says that the “words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard” (v. 17 nkjv).
Scripture warns us not to be wise in our own eyes or proud (Prov. 3:7; Isa. 5:21; Rom. 12:16). In other words, let’s not assume that we have all the answers! Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” Whether it is a friend, a spouse, a pastor, or a co-worker, God can use others to teach us more of His wisdom.
“Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning,” declares the book of Proverbs (14:33). Part of recognizing the Spirit’s wisdom is discovering how to listen and learn from each other.
Dear Lord, thank You for Your Word that teaches me how to love You and others. Thank You also for the people You place in my life to remind me of Your truth.
True wisdom begins and ends with God.
INSIGHT:
The author of the book of Ecclesiastes is unknown. Many believe it to be Solomon, the legendary wise son of King David. However, we are only told that the author is “the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem” (Eccl. 1:1). This description would fit King Solomon. J.R. Hudberg
My niece’s husband recently wrote these words on a social media site: “I would say a lot more online if it weren’t for this little voice that prompts me not to. As a follower of Jesus, you might think that little voice is the Holy Spirit. It isn’t. It’s my wife, Heidi.”
With the smile comes a sobering thought. The cautions of a discerning friend can reflect the wisdom of God. Ecclesiastes 9 says that the “words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard” (v. 17 nkjv).
Scripture warns us not to be wise in our own eyes or proud (Prov. 3:7; Isa. 5:21; Rom. 12:16). In other words, let’s not assume that we have all the answers! Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” Whether it is a friend, a spouse, a pastor, or a co-worker, God can use others to teach us more of His wisdom.
“Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning,” declares the book of Proverbs (14:33). Part of recognizing the Spirit’s wisdom is discovering how to listen and learn from each other.
Dear Lord, thank You for Your Word that teaches me how to love You and others. Thank You also for the people You place in my life to remind me of Your truth.
True wisdom begins and ends with God.
INSIGHT:
The author of the book of Ecclesiastes is unknown. Many believe it to be Solomon, the legendary wise son of King David. However, we are only told that the author is “the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem” (Eccl. 1:1). This description would fit King Solomon. J.R. Hudberg
The Daily Grind
November 3, 2015
Read: Ephesians 6:5-9 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 30–31; Philemon
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23
The high school I attended required 4 years of Latin instruction. I appreciate the value of that discipline now, but back then it was a grind. Our teacher believed in drill and repetition. “Repetitio est mater studiorum,” she intoned over us several times a day, which simply means, “Repetition is the mother of learning.” “Repetitio est absurdum,”we muttered under our breath. “Repetition is absurd.”
I realize now that most of life is simply that: repetition—a round of dull, uninspiring, lackluster things we must do again and again. “Repetition is both as ordinary and necessary as bread,” said Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. But he went on to say, “It is the bread that satisfies with benediction.”
Even the smallest tasks are done for God.
It’s a matter of taking up each duty, no matter how mundane, humble, or trivial, and asking God to bless it and put it to His intended purposes. In that way we take the drudgeries of life and turn them into holy work, filled with unseen, eternal consequence.
The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins said, “To lift up the hands in prayer gives God glory, but a man with a [pitchfork] in his hand, a woman with a slop pail, give Him glory, too. God is so great that all things give Him glory if you mean that they should.”
If whatever we do is done for Christ, we’ll be amazed at the joy and meaning we’ll find in even the most ordinary tasks.
Remind us today, Lord, that You are in the dull and ordinary tasks of life in a most extraordinary way. Let us not forget that we do even the smallest tasks for You.
A willing spirit changes the drudgery of duty into a labor of love.
INSIGHT:
Historians say that slaves composed about one-third of the population of Ephesus. In today’s reading Paul teaches believing slaves and masters how to live in a Christlike way within the established structures of society. These instructions called for reciprocal attitudes and applied to both slaves and masters (v. 9). Because of their new relationship with Christ, believers were accountable to Him as their Master, and He would judge fairly regardless of one’s social or economic status. Both slaves and masters were to treat each other with respect, sincerity, justice, and fairness (vv. 5-9). Sim Kay Tee
November 3, 2015
Read: Ephesians 6:5-9 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 30–31; Philemon
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23
The high school I attended required 4 years of Latin instruction. I appreciate the value of that discipline now, but back then it was a grind. Our teacher believed in drill and repetition. “Repetitio est mater studiorum,” she intoned over us several times a day, which simply means, “Repetition is the mother of learning.” “Repetitio est absurdum,”we muttered under our breath. “Repetition is absurd.”
I realize now that most of life is simply that: repetition—a round of dull, uninspiring, lackluster things we must do again and again. “Repetition is both as ordinary and necessary as bread,” said Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. But he went on to say, “It is the bread that satisfies with benediction.”
Even the smallest tasks are done for God.
It’s a matter of taking up each duty, no matter how mundane, humble, or trivial, and asking God to bless it and put it to His intended purposes. In that way we take the drudgeries of life and turn them into holy work, filled with unseen, eternal consequence.
The poet Gerard Manley Hopkins said, “To lift up the hands in prayer gives God glory, but a man with a [pitchfork] in his hand, a woman with a slop pail, give Him glory, too. God is so great that all things give Him glory if you mean that they should.”
If whatever we do is done for Christ, we’ll be amazed at the joy and meaning we’ll find in even the most ordinary tasks.
Remind us today, Lord, that You are in the dull and ordinary tasks of life in a most extraordinary way. Let us not forget that we do even the smallest tasks for You.
A willing spirit changes the drudgery of duty into a labor of love.
INSIGHT:
Historians say that slaves composed about one-third of the population of Ephesus. In today’s reading Paul teaches believing slaves and masters how to live in a Christlike way within the established structures of society. These instructions called for reciprocal attitudes and applied to both slaves and masters (v. 9). Because of their new relationship with Christ, believers were accountable to Him as their Master, and He would judge fairly regardless of one’s social or economic status. Both slaves and masters were to treat each other with respect, sincerity, justice, and fairness (vv. 5-9). Sim Kay Tee
Our Jealous God
November 4, 2015
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:1-4 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 32–33; Hebrews 1
The Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.
Exodus 34:14
In 2014 a University of California researcher used a stuffed dog to show that animals are capable of jealousy. Professor Christine Harris asked dog owners to show affection for a stuffed animal in the presence of their pet. She found that three-fourths of the dogs responded with apparent envy. Some tried to get attention with touch or a gentle nudge. Others tried to push between their owner and the toy. A few went so far as to snap at their stuffed rival.
In a dog, jealousy seems heartwarming. In people, it can lead to less admirable results. Yet, as Moses and Paul remind us, there is also another jealousy—one that beautifully reflects the heart of God.
God made us & rescued us to know & enjoy Him forever.
When Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, he said he was “jealous for you with a godly jealousy” (2 Cor. 11:2). He didn’t want them to be “led astray from [their] sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (v. 3). Such jealousy reflects the heart of God, who told Moses in the Ten Commandments, “I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” (Ex. 20:5).
God’s jealousy is not like our self-centered love. His heart expresses His protective zeal for those who are His by creation and salvation. He made us and rescued us to know and enjoy Him forever. How could we ask for anything more than a God who is so zealous—and jealous—for our happiness?
Father, help me shun anything that distracts me from You, so that I may always find enjoyment in who You are and in Your plan for me.
God loves every one of us as if there were but one of us to love. Augustine
INSIGHT:
Paul’s relationship with the church at Corinth was a turbulent one. Paul founded the Corinthian church and spent 18 months there (Acts 18:1-18). Then he returned for another 3 months at a later time (20:3). In spite of this significant investment of time and energy, the Corinthian believers appear to have struggled with Paul’s authority and position as an apostle, as well as his correction of them. His letters to the church at Corinth are filled with evidence of his disappointment over their testy relationship. Still, Paul’s love for them is evidenced by his desire that they not be led astray by false teachers. Bill Crowder
November 4, 2015
Read: 2 Corinthians 11:1-4 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 32–33; Hebrews 1
The Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.
Exodus 34:14
In 2014 a University of California researcher used a stuffed dog to show that animals are capable of jealousy. Professor Christine Harris asked dog owners to show affection for a stuffed animal in the presence of their pet. She found that three-fourths of the dogs responded with apparent envy. Some tried to get attention with touch or a gentle nudge. Others tried to push between their owner and the toy. A few went so far as to snap at their stuffed rival.
In a dog, jealousy seems heartwarming. In people, it can lead to less admirable results. Yet, as Moses and Paul remind us, there is also another jealousy—one that beautifully reflects the heart of God.
God made us & rescued us to know & enjoy Him forever.
When Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, he said he was “jealous for you with a godly jealousy” (2 Cor. 11:2). He didn’t want them to be “led astray from [their] sincere and pure devotion to Christ” (v. 3). Such jealousy reflects the heart of God, who told Moses in the Ten Commandments, “I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” (Ex. 20:5).
God’s jealousy is not like our self-centered love. His heart expresses His protective zeal for those who are His by creation and salvation. He made us and rescued us to know and enjoy Him forever. How could we ask for anything more than a God who is so zealous—and jealous—for our happiness?
Father, help me shun anything that distracts me from You, so that I may always find enjoyment in who You are and in Your plan for me.
God loves every one of us as if there were but one of us to love. Augustine
INSIGHT:
Paul’s relationship with the church at Corinth was a turbulent one. Paul founded the Corinthian church and spent 18 months there (Acts 18:1-18). Then he returned for another 3 months at a later time (20:3). In spite of this significant investment of time and energy, the Corinthian believers appear to have struggled with Paul’s authority and position as an apostle, as well as his correction of them. His letters to the church at Corinth are filled with evidence of his disappointment over their testy relationship. Still, Paul’s love for them is evidenced by his desire that they not be led astray by false teachers. Bill Crowder
"So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him." - Luke 15:20
IS IT TIME FOR YOU TO COME HOME?
November 4, 2015
Robert Frost wrote, “Home is the place where when you have to go there, they have to take you in.” There’s no place like home. No matter how bad we mess up or how disappointing life gets, it’s the one place they have to take us in.
Jesus told of a wayward son who messed up big time, wasting all his dad had blessed him with. He became homeless and was so hungry he wanted to eat leftover slop fit only for animals. But when he came to his senses, he thought about home. He knew he didn’t deserve to go there, but he went anyway. And his dad was so overwhelmed with joy he welcomed him home.
The dad represents God, and the wayward son represents you and me. It’s Jesus’ way of telling us that we all mess up–but nobody messes up so badly that when he decides to come home to the Lord, the Lord won’t welcome him back to a right relationship with Him. Is it time for you to come home to the Lord?
IS IT TIME FOR YOU TO COME HOME?
November 4, 2015
Robert Frost wrote, “Home is the place where when you have to go there, they have to take you in.” There’s no place like home. No matter how bad we mess up or how disappointing life gets, it’s the one place they have to take us in.
Jesus told of a wayward son who messed up big time, wasting all his dad had blessed him with. He became homeless and was so hungry he wanted to eat leftover slop fit only for animals. But when he came to his senses, he thought about home. He knew he didn’t deserve to go there, but he went anyway. And his dad was so overwhelmed with joy he welcomed him home.
The dad represents God, and the wayward son represents you and me. It’s Jesus’ way of telling us that we all mess up–but nobody messes up so badly that when he decides to come home to the Lord, the Lord won’t welcome him back to a right relationship with Him. Is it time for you to come home to the Lord?
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar." - Proverbs 30:5-6
WHOSE SCRIPTURE IS CORRECT?
November 5, 2015
Turn with me to 2 Maccabees, Chapter 12. If you are new to Bible study, you’ll find it is the last book in the Old Testament. What? You say you can’t find it? Well, that’s probably because it’s not in your Bible; you can only find 2 Maccabees in the Orthodox and Catholic Bibles. So, you may be wondering, if different groups of Christianity have different books in their Bibles, which one is right?
Here’s the story: In the Protestant Reformation (that was led by a Catholic monk, Martin Luther), there was a call for theological, moral, and Biblical reform. The Protestant Reformation demanded that the church get back to Scripture alone. Several books had been added to the Old Testament; these books were called the apocrypha. The Reformation sought to return to the original Old Testament. When I asked Rabbi Shalom Lewis about the apocrypha, he said, “The Jewish people see the books of the apocrypha as sacred, but not binding, and not on the level of the Bible.”
Since the Protestant Reformation was all about bringing us back to the place where we relied on Scripture alone, then you understand why the Protestant Reformers left the books of the apocrypha out of the Bible we have today. Do not let this alarm you. The apocrypha is sacred writings of the Jews, but it is not the Holy Word of God. But the 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament are all the same in the Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Bibles. This means the story of Jesus Christ remains identical, universal, and eternal for all.
WHOSE SCRIPTURE IS CORRECT?
November 5, 2015
Turn with me to 2 Maccabees, Chapter 12. If you are new to Bible study, you’ll find it is the last book in the Old Testament. What? You say you can’t find it? Well, that’s probably because it’s not in your Bible; you can only find 2 Maccabees in the Orthodox and Catholic Bibles. So, you may be wondering, if different groups of Christianity have different books in their Bibles, which one is right?
Here’s the story: In the Protestant Reformation (that was led by a Catholic monk, Martin Luther), there was a call for theological, moral, and Biblical reform. The Protestant Reformation demanded that the church get back to Scripture alone. Several books had been added to the Old Testament; these books were called the apocrypha. The Reformation sought to return to the original Old Testament. When I asked Rabbi Shalom Lewis about the apocrypha, he said, “The Jewish people see the books of the apocrypha as sacred, but not binding, and not on the level of the Bible.”
Since the Protestant Reformation was all about bringing us back to the place where we relied on Scripture alone, then you understand why the Protestant Reformers left the books of the apocrypha out of the Bible we have today. Do not let this alarm you. The apocrypha is sacred writings of the Jews, but it is not the Holy Word of God. But the 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament are all the same in the Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Bibles. This means the story of Jesus Christ remains identical, universal, and eternal for all.
"He who is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who is quick-tempered exalts folly." - Proverbs 14:29
I NEED PATIENCE – NOW!
November 8, 2015
It has been said that life is a test of patience. Where do you struggle with being patient?
I struggle with lines–whether it’s traffic, or waiting at a restaurant. Why, I’d rather drive five miles out of the way than sit still in traffic. I get impatient with people when I’m facing a deadline and get interrupted, or when someone says they’ll do something and it doesn’t get done.
Where do you struggle with patience? Do you ever pray, “Lord, give me some patience, now!” Let me suggest a few practical ways to learn patience:
I NEED PATIENCE – NOW!
November 8, 2015
It has been said that life is a test of patience. Where do you struggle with being patient?
I struggle with lines–whether it’s traffic, or waiting at a restaurant. Why, I’d rather drive five miles out of the way than sit still in traffic. I get impatient with people when I’m facing a deadline and get interrupted, or when someone says they’ll do something and it doesn’t get done.
Where do you struggle with patience? Do you ever pray, “Lord, give me some patience, now!” Let me suggest a few practical ways to learn patience:
- Take a breath and pray for self-control.
- When people anger you, if possible, retreat for a moment. Take time to back off and get control of your emotions.
- Confront fairly, and seek to listen, understand, and where needed, forgive.
- Remember, the greatest motive for patience is remembering God’s patience with us.
Gentle Lights
November 10, 2015
Read: 1 Peter 3:13-17 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 48–49; Hebrews 7
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Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Wang Xiaoying (pronounced Shao-ying) lives in a rural area of China’s Yunnan province. Due to health problems, her husband couldn’t find work in the fields, causing hardship for the family. Her mother-in-law attributed the trouble to Xiaoying’s faith in God. So she mistreated Xiaoying and urged her to go back to the traditional religion of her ancestors.
But because Xiaoying’s husband had observed her transformed life, he said, “Mother, it isn’t enough for Xiaoying alone to believe in God; we too should put our faith in God!” Because of the noticeable change in his wife, he is now considering the good news of Jesus.
People will watch our walk before listening to our talk. The best witness combines good behavior with appropriate words, reflecting the difference Christ makes in our lives.
This was the apostle Peter’s instruction to the first-century believers, and to us, on how we can introduce Jesus to a hostile world. He challenged his readers to be “eager to do good” (1 Peter 3:13), to live obediently in Christ, to have a good conscience, and to be prepared to explain to others why we have such hope (v. 15). If we do this, we have no reason to fear or be ashamed when people mistreat or slander us because of our beliefs.
Whatever our situation, let’s shine for Jesus where we are. He can provide the grace we need to reach even those who don’t agree with us.
Lord, we tend to react defensively when people shun us or attack us for our faith. Give us Your courage to offer wise and gentle responses when we are mistreated.
The more we live like Jesus, the more others will be drawn to Him.
INSIGHT:
First Peter was written to those who were being persecuted because of their faith in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:11-25, echoing Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5:10-16, Peter encourages the believers to live holy lives and to do good works so that those who don’t believe might be won to the Lord. In today’s passage he encourages followers of Christ to remain faithful, to continue to “revere Christ as Lord,” and to be ready to share the gospel when the opportunity presents itself (3:14-16). Paul makes similar calls to godly living in his other letters (Rom. 13:12-14; Phil. 2:14-16; Col. 4:5-6; 1 Thess. 4:9-12; Titus 2:7-8). Sim Kay Tee
November 10, 2015
Read: 1 Peter 3:13-17 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 48–49; Hebrews 7
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Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Wang Xiaoying (pronounced Shao-ying) lives in a rural area of China’s Yunnan province. Due to health problems, her husband couldn’t find work in the fields, causing hardship for the family. Her mother-in-law attributed the trouble to Xiaoying’s faith in God. So she mistreated Xiaoying and urged her to go back to the traditional religion of her ancestors.
But because Xiaoying’s husband had observed her transformed life, he said, “Mother, it isn’t enough for Xiaoying alone to believe in God; we too should put our faith in God!” Because of the noticeable change in his wife, he is now considering the good news of Jesus.
People will watch our walk before listening to our talk. The best witness combines good behavior with appropriate words, reflecting the difference Christ makes in our lives.
This was the apostle Peter’s instruction to the first-century believers, and to us, on how we can introduce Jesus to a hostile world. He challenged his readers to be “eager to do good” (1 Peter 3:13), to live obediently in Christ, to have a good conscience, and to be prepared to explain to others why we have such hope (v. 15). If we do this, we have no reason to fear or be ashamed when people mistreat or slander us because of our beliefs.
Whatever our situation, let’s shine for Jesus where we are. He can provide the grace we need to reach even those who don’t agree with us.
Lord, we tend to react defensively when people shun us or attack us for our faith. Give us Your courage to offer wise and gentle responses when we are mistreated.
The more we live like Jesus, the more others will be drawn to Him.
INSIGHT:
First Peter was written to those who were being persecuted because of their faith in Christ. In 1 Peter 2:11-25, echoing Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5:10-16, Peter encourages the believers to live holy lives and to do good works so that those who don’t believe might be won to the Lord. In today’s passage he encourages followers of Christ to remain faithful, to continue to “revere Christ as Lord,” and to be ready to share the gospel when the opportunity presents itself (3:14-16). Paul makes similar calls to godly living in his other letters (Rom. 13:12-14; Phil. 2:14-16; Col. 4:5-6; 1 Thess. 4:9-12; Titus 2:7-8). Sim Kay Tee
Crumbs of Time
November 11, 2015
Read: Daniel 6:10-23 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 50; Hebrews 8
Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
Daniel 6:10
A friend was coming to town. He is a very busy man and his schedule was tight, but after a difficult day in important meetings, he managed to see my family for half an hour for a quick and late dinner. We enjoyed his visit, but I remember looking at my plate and thinking, “We only got the crumbs of his time.”
Then I remembered how many times God gets the crumbs of my time—sometimes just the last minutes before I fall asleep.
Daniel was a busy man. He held a high government position in the ancient kingdom of Babylon, and I’m sure he had a full schedule. However, he had developed the habit of spending time with God—praying three times a day, praising God, and thanking Him. This routine helped him develop a strong faith that did not waver when he faced persecution (Dan. 6).
God desires a relationship with us. In the morning we can invite Him into our day, and then we can praise Him and ask Him for His help throughout the day. At other times we can treasure some time alone with Him and reflect on His faithfulness. As we spend time with God in prayer and in His Word, we grow in our relationship with Him and learn to become more and more like Him. As time with God becomes a priority, we enjoy His company more and more.
Dear Father, I want to have an intimate relationship with You. I invite You to be part of my entire day—from the time I awake until I go to sleep.
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:31
INSIGHT:
The name Daniel means “God is my judge,” and Daniel lived a life that expressed that truth. He lived in captivity to the Babylonians, but his heart was surrendered to God. Bill Crowder
November 11, 2015
Read: Daniel 6:10-23 | Bible in a Year: Jeremiah 50; Hebrews 8
Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
Daniel 6:10
A friend was coming to town. He is a very busy man and his schedule was tight, but after a difficult day in important meetings, he managed to see my family for half an hour for a quick and late dinner. We enjoyed his visit, but I remember looking at my plate and thinking, “We only got the crumbs of his time.”
Then I remembered how many times God gets the crumbs of my time—sometimes just the last minutes before I fall asleep.
Daniel was a busy man. He held a high government position in the ancient kingdom of Babylon, and I’m sure he had a full schedule. However, he had developed the habit of spending time with God—praying three times a day, praising God, and thanking Him. This routine helped him develop a strong faith that did not waver when he faced persecution (Dan. 6).
God desires a relationship with us. In the morning we can invite Him into our day, and then we can praise Him and ask Him for His help throughout the day. At other times we can treasure some time alone with Him and reflect on His faithfulness. As we spend time with God in prayer and in His Word, we grow in our relationship with Him and learn to become more and more like Him. As time with God becomes a priority, we enjoy His company more and more.
Dear Father, I want to have an intimate relationship with You. I invite You to be part of my entire day—from the time I awake until I go to sleep.
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:31
INSIGHT:
The name Daniel means “God is my judge,” and Daniel lived a life that expressed that truth. He lived in captivity to the Babylonians, but his heart was surrendered to God. Bill Crowder
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." -Acts 4:12
WHAT WILL YOUR “SENTENCE” BE?
November 15, 2015
In 2009, Illinois governor, Rod Blagojevich, who was accused of having seriously abused his political power, was impeached. He had been very articulate in defending himself, saying he was unjustly accused and hadn’t done anything worthy of being kicked out of office or going to prison. Then, he was voted 59 to zero by both Republicans and Democrats to be impeached – a universal, overwhelming vote of judgment. He was doomed. They said he was guilty. He said he was not.
Sadly, that situation represents how most people are with God. We look around at others and think, “Well, I’m not as bad as they are. I’m pretty good most of the time, so I should be able to get into heaven.” “You see, me and God, we’ve got an agreement. We’ve got things worked out.” Let me make this clear – if you feel you can be right with God in your “own” way, you’re going to get to the end of your life, stand before God, and the vote will be unanimous: you’ll be doomed. All of us are sinners, yet amazingly, God loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for our sins – to be a substitute in facing the sentence we actually deserve. So, if we feel like there is any way we can receive salvation other than through Jesus Christ, we are showing blindness to our own sinful ignorance. It’s absolutely appalling to God.
Continue on that course and you’re doomed. But God’s Word gives us some great news. “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness.”
In the end, will you be doomed or forgiven?
WHAT WILL YOUR “SENTENCE” BE?
November 15, 2015
In 2009, Illinois governor, Rod Blagojevich, who was accused of having seriously abused his political power, was impeached. He had been very articulate in defending himself, saying he was unjustly accused and hadn’t done anything worthy of being kicked out of office or going to prison. Then, he was voted 59 to zero by both Republicans and Democrats to be impeached – a universal, overwhelming vote of judgment. He was doomed. They said he was guilty. He said he was not.
Sadly, that situation represents how most people are with God. We look around at others and think, “Well, I’m not as bad as they are. I’m pretty good most of the time, so I should be able to get into heaven.” “You see, me and God, we’ve got an agreement. We’ve got things worked out.” Let me make this clear – if you feel you can be right with God in your “own” way, you’re going to get to the end of your life, stand before God, and the vote will be unanimous: you’ll be doomed. All of us are sinners, yet amazingly, God loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for our sins – to be a substitute in facing the sentence we actually deserve. So, if we feel like there is any way we can receive salvation other than through Jesus Christ, we are showing blindness to our own sinful ignorance. It’s absolutely appalling to God.
Continue on that course and you’re doomed. But God’s Word gives us some great news. “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us of all unrighteousness.”
In the end, will you be doomed or forgiven?
Safe in His Arms
November 17, 2015
Read: Isaiah 66:5-13 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 5–7; Hebrews 12
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.
Isaiah 66:13
I sat next to my daughter’s bed in a recovery room after she had undergone surgery. When her eyes fluttered open, she realized she was uncomfortable and started to cry. I tried to reassure her by stroking her arm, but she only became more upset. With help from a nurse, I moved her from the bed and onto my lap. I brushed tears from her cheeks and reminded her that she would eventually feel better.
Through Isaiah, God told the Israelites, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you” (Isa. 66:13). God promised to give His children peace and to carry them the way a mother totes a child around on her side. This tender message was for the people who had a reverence for God—those who “tremble at his word” (v. 5).
We can depend on God's love to support us when we suffer.
God’s ability and desire to comfort His people appears again in Paul’s letter to the Corinthian believers. Paul said the Lord is the one “who comforts us in all our troubles” (2 Cor. 1:3-4). God is gentle and sympathetic with us when we are in trouble.
One day all suffering will end. Our tears will dry up permanently, and we will be safe in God’s arms forever (Rev. 21:4). Until then, we can depend on God’s love to support us when we suffer.
Dear God, help me to remember that nothing can separate me from Your love. Please assure me of Your care through the power of the Holy Spirit.
God comforts His people.
INSIGHT:
Having warned of exile in Babylon (Isa. 39:6-7), Isaiah now comforts the Israelites with the promise that God will bring them back to Judea and bless them (chs. 40–66). This restoration is so certain and swift that it is likened to a woman giving birth to a child before she even experiences labor pains (39:7-8). What God promises, He fulfills (v. 9). God will love His people like a mother loves her child (v. 13).
November 17, 2015
Read: Isaiah 66:5-13 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 5–7; Hebrews 12
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.
Isaiah 66:13
I sat next to my daughter’s bed in a recovery room after she had undergone surgery. When her eyes fluttered open, she realized she was uncomfortable and started to cry. I tried to reassure her by stroking her arm, but she only became more upset. With help from a nurse, I moved her from the bed and onto my lap. I brushed tears from her cheeks and reminded her that she would eventually feel better.
Through Isaiah, God told the Israelites, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you” (Isa. 66:13). God promised to give His children peace and to carry them the way a mother totes a child around on her side. This tender message was for the people who had a reverence for God—those who “tremble at his word” (v. 5).
We can depend on God's love to support us when we suffer.
God’s ability and desire to comfort His people appears again in Paul’s letter to the Corinthian believers. Paul said the Lord is the one “who comforts us in all our troubles” (2 Cor. 1:3-4). God is gentle and sympathetic with us when we are in trouble.
One day all suffering will end. Our tears will dry up permanently, and we will be safe in God’s arms forever (Rev. 21:4). Until then, we can depend on God’s love to support us when we suffer.
Dear God, help me to remember that nothing can separate me from Your love. Please assure me of Your care through the power of the Holy Spirit.
God comforts His people.
INSIGHT:
Having warned of exile in Babylon (Isa. 39:6-7), Isaiah now comforts the Israelites with the promise that God will bring them back to Judea and bless them (chs. 40–66). This restoration is so certain and swift that it is likened to a woman giving birth to a child before she even experiences labor pains (39:7-8). What God promises, He fulfills (v. 9). God will love His people like a mother loves her child (v. 13).
"...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." -Matthew 28:20b
WILL JESUS LEAVE YOU? NOT A CHANCE.
November 17, 2015
Have you ever faced a difficult time in your life and the frustration was multiplied because it did not seem that Jesus was there for you? The disciples faced this very situation. Jesus told them take their boat to sea while he stayed behind to pray. Suddenly, a powerful storm came up. The terrified disciples faced it for several hours before Jesus, making a pretty dramatic entrance, showed up to comfort them. So, why didn’t Jesus come to them right away?
Well, think about it this way. When we are going through these hard times, it’s human nature for us to have the mindset that, “I’ve just got to work this out by myself!” The disciples knew Jesus was on land and probably assumed there really wasn’t anything He could do anyway. But Christ was praying on the shore for the disciples as He saw the storm come up. And you should realize that Jesus is also hearing your prayers in the midst of your storms, as well.
Know this: There is no storm in your life life stronger than Jesus. The fact is, Jesus doesn’t always give us a perfect peace and calm at the very moment that we’re pouring out our heart to Him; sometimes the calm comes later. He will bring us His peace in His timing. You can face your storms with courage because Jesus promises that He will be with you.
WILL JESUS LEAVE YOU? NOT A CHANCE.
November 17, 2015
Have you ever faced a difficult time in your life and the frustration was multiplied because it did not seem that Jesus was there for you? The disciples faced this very situation. Jesus told them take their boat to sea while he stayed behind to pray. Suddenly, a powerful storm came up. The terrified disciples faced it for several hours before Jesus, making a pretty dramatic entrance, showed up to comfort them. So, why didn’t Jesus come to them right away?
Well, think about it this way. When we are going through these hard times, it’s human nature for us to have the mindset that, “I’ve just got to work this out by myself!” The disciples knew Jesus was on land and probably assumed there really wasn’t anything He could do anyway. But Christ was praying on the shore for the disciples as He saw the storm come up. And you should realize that Jesus is also hearing your prayers in the midst of your storms, as well.
Know this: There is no storm in your life life stronger than Jesus. The fact is, Jesus doesn’t always give us a perfect peace and calm at the very moment that we’re pouring out our heart to Him; sometimes the calm comes later. He will bring us His peace in His timing. You can face your storms with courage because Jesus promises that He will be with you.
Our Main Concern
November 20, 2015
Read: Galatians 1:6-10 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 14–15; James 2
If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:10
Peer pressure is part of everyday life. Sometimes we base our decisions on what other people will think or say rather than on our convictions and on what will please God. We’re worried that we’ll be judged or made fun of.
The apostle Paul experienced his fair share of peer pressure. Some Jewish Christians believed that Gentiles should be circumcised to be truly saved (Gal. 1:7; see 6:12-15). However, Paul stood his ground. He continued to preach that salvation is by grace through faith alone; no further works are required. And for that he was accused of being a self-appointed apostle. They further asserted that his version of the gospel had never received the apostles’ approval (2:1-10).
Despite the pressure, Paul was very clear about whom he served—Christ. God’s approval mattered most, not man’s. He made it his goal not to win the approval of people, but of God (1:10).
Similarly, we are Christ’s servants. We serve God whether people honor or despise us, whether they slander or praise us. One day “each of us will give an account of ourselves to God” (Rom. 14:12). That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t consider what people think or say, but ultimately, we make pleasing God our main concern. We want to hear our Savior say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matt. 25:23).
Dear Lord, no matter what others may say or do, give me the courage to be faithful to You today.
Keep following Jesus.
INSIGHT:
Because the risen Christ called Paul to be an apostle on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1-18; 22:1-15; 26:9-18), Paul acknowledges that his apostleship was different from the original 12 apostles (Gal. 1:11-17), but it was clearly accepted by them (1:18; 2:7-10). Because Christianity was birthed in Judaism, adhering to the Mosaic law became an issue as more Gentiles became believers. The Judaizers taught that Christians must follow Jewish laws and practices in order to be saved. Paul wrote this letter to counter and condemn this false teaching (vv. 8-9), affirming that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by observing the law (Gal. 2:16,20-21; 3:11,24).
November 20, 2015
Read: Galatians 1:6-10 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 14–15; James 2
If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:10
Peer pressure is part of everyday life. Sometimes we base our decisions on what other people will think or say rather than on our convictions and on what will please God. We’re worried that we’ll be judged or made fun of.
The apostle Paul experienced his fair share of peer pressure. Some Jewish Christians believed that Gentiles should be circumcised to be truly saved (Gal. 1:7; see 6:12-15). However, Paul stood his ground. He continued to preach that salvation is by grace through faith alone; no further works are required. And for that he was accused of being a self-appointed apostle. They further asserted that his version of the gospel had never received the apostles’ approval (2:1-10).
Despite the pressure, Paul was very clear about whom he served—Christ. God’s approval mattered most, not man’s. He made it his goal not to win the approval of people, but of God (1:10).
Similarly, we are Christ’s servants. We serve God whether people honor or despise us, whether they slander or praise us. One day “each of us will give an account of ourselves to God” (Rom. 14:12). That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t consider what people think or say, but ultimately, we make pleasing God our main concern. We want to hear our Savior say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matt. 25:23).
Dear Lord, no matter what others may say or do, give me the courage to be faithful to You today.
Keep following Jesus.
INSIGHT:
Because the risen Christ called Paul to be an apostle on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1-18; 22:1-15; 26:9-18), Paul acknowledges that his apostleship was different from the original 12 apostles (Gal. 1:11-17), but it was clearly accepted by them (1:18; 2:7-10). Because Christianity was birthed in Judaism, adhering to the Mosaic law became an issue as more Gentiles became believers. The Judaizers taught that Christians must follow Jewish laws and practices in order to be saved. Paul wrote this letter to counter and condemn this false teaching (vv. 8-9), affirming that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by observing the law (Gal. 2:16,20-21; 3:11,24).
"Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this...to keep oneself unstained by the world." - James 1:27
RELIGIOUS WARS
November 22, 2015
Have you ever heard this? “Religion is the cause of more problems and wars than anything else.” The response: “You’re right, religion IS the cause of many wars and conflicts.”
RELIGIOUS WARS
November 22, 2015
Have you ever heard this? “Religion is the cause of more problems and wars than anything else.” The response: “You’re right, religion IS the cause of many wars and conflicts.”
- The Thirty Years’ War is a series of religious wars that were fought in between 1618 to 1648 in Europe, and at that time, most of the European countries participated in these wars. This period of wars is the longest and most demolishing period of fighting in the history of the world that left more than 800,000 deaths including soldiers and civilians. These short period wars were also fought between the religious conflicts in between the Holy Roman Empire and France, Sweden and Spain.
- The Crusades is just a title for the multiple religious wars and fights that were fought between the Muslims and Christians due to the religious disputes and controls over land in the Jerusalem. The first war started in 1095 and lasted in 1096 where as the second war was started in 1097 and continued till 1127. Along with many other wars, it all stopped in 1303 when both war soldiers shed blood of more than half a million civilians in the fight and the control of that land was given to the Christians.
- There was the horror of the Inquisition, with so-called heretics burned at the stake and Jews expelled from Spain.
- There was the horrible terror and killing in Northern Ireland.
- September 11, 2001…hate smothered with perverted religion.
- Look at the Middle East today.
- Look at the WORLD today.
eyond Disappointment
November 24, 2015
Read: Genesis 29:14-30 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 22–23; 1 Peter 1
Hope in the Lord and keep his way.
Psalm 37:34
Perhaps you’ve seen the video of the little boy who learns he’s getting another sister. In the middle of his meltdown he laments, “It’s always girls, girls, girls, girls!”
The story gives an amusing glimpse into human expectations, but there’s nothing funny about disappointment. It saturates our world. One story from the Bible seems especially steeped in disappointment. Jacob agreed to work 7 years for the right to marry his boss’s daughter Rachel. But after fulfilling his contract, Jacob got a wedding night surprise. In the morning he discovered not Rachel but her sister Leah.
Jesus brings justice & restores hope.
We focus on Jacob’s disappointment, but imagine how Leah must have felt! What hopes and dreams of hers began to die that day as she was forced to marry a man who did not love or want her?
Psalm 37:4 tells us, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Are we to believe that God-fearing people are never disappointed? No, the psalm clearly shows that the writer sees injustice all around him. But he takes the long view: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him” (v. 7). His conclusion: “The meek will inherit the land” (v. 11).
In the end, it was Leah whom Jacob honored and buried in the family grave plot with Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah (Gen. 49:31). And it was through the lineage of Leah—who in life thought she was unloved—that God blessed the world with our Savior. Jesus brings justice, restores hope, and gives us an inheritance beyond our wildest dreams.
Lord, sometimes it’s so hard to wait patiently for good things. Forgive us for comparing ourselves to others and for complaining about what we don’t have. Help us meet You in a new way today.
Jesus is the only friend who never disappoints.
November 24, 2015
Read: Genesis 29:14-30 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 22–23; 1 Peter 1
Hope in the Lord and keep his way.
Psalm 37:34
Perhaps you’ve seen the video of the little boy who learns he’s getting another sister. In the middle of his meltdown he laments, “It’s always girls, girls, girls, girls!”
The story gives an amusing glimpse into human expectations, but there’s nothing funny about disappointment. It saturates our world. One story from the Bible seems especially steeped in disappointment. Jacob agreed to work 7 years for the right to marry his boss’s daughter Rachel. But after fulfilling his contract, Jacob got a wedding night surprise. In the morning he discovered not Rachel but her sister Leah.
Jesus brings justice & restores hope.
We focus on Jacob’s disappointment, but imagine how Leah must have felt! What hopes and dreams of hers began to die that day as she was forced to marry a man who did not love or want her?
Psalm 37:4 tells us, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Are we to believe that God-fearing people are never disappointed? No, the psalm clearly shows that the writer sees injustice all around him. But he takes the long view: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him” (v. 7). His conclusion: “The meek will inherit the land” (v. 11).
In the end, it was Leah whom Jacob honored and buried in the family grave plot with Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah (Gen. 49:31). And it was through the lineage of Leah—who in life thought she was unloved—that God blessed the world with our Savior. Jesus brings justice, restores hope, and gives us an inheritance beyond our wildest dreams.
Lord, sometimes it’s so hard to wait patiently for good things. Forgive us for comparing ourselves to others and for complaining about what we don’t have. Help us meet You in a new way today.
Jesus is the only friend who never disappoints.
With Us and in Us
November 25, 2015
Read: John 14:15-21 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 24–26; 1 Peter 2
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.
John 14:16
My son had just started nursery school. The first day he cried and declared, “I don’t like school.” My husband and I talked to him about it. “We may not be physically there, but we are praying for you. Besides, Jesus is with you always.”
“But I can’t see Him!” he reasoned. My husband hugged him and said, “He lives in you. And He won’t leave you alone.” My son touched his heart and said, “Yes, Jesus lives in me.”
Kids are not the only ones who suffer from separation anxiety. In every stage of life we face times of separation from those we love, sometimes because of geographical distance and sometimes because of death. However, we need to remember that even if we feel forsaken by others, God hasn’t forsaken us. He has promised to be with us always. God sent the Spirit of truth—our Advocate and Helper—to dwell with us and in us forever (John 14:15-18). We are His beloved children.
My son is learning to trust, but so am I. Like my son, I can’t see the Spirit, but I feel His power as each day He encourages me and guides me as I read God’s Word. Let us thank God for His wonderful provision, the Spirit of Christ who is with us and in us. We are certainly not alone!
Lord, thank You for Your Holy Spirit who lives in me.
We are never alone.
INSIGHT:
In today’s passage Jesus describes the promised Spirit as an advocate (v. 15). The original Greek word is paraklete, which literally means “someone called alongside to help.” Some translations render the word as counselor or comforter. While those terms convey some of the meaning, advocate adds a different layer to the definition because paraklete was also used to describe someone who served as legal counsel or as a defense attorney. Our Helper—the Spirit of God—was sent by Jesus to help us in our time of need.
November 25, 2015
Read: John 14:15-21 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 24–26; 1 Peter 2
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.
John 14:16
My son had just started nursery school. The first day he cried and declared, “I don’t like school.” My husband and I talked to him about it. “We may not be physically there, but we are praying for you. Besides, Jesus is with you always.”
“But I can’t see Him!” he reasoned. My husband hugged him and said, “He lives in you. And He won’t leave you alone.” My son touched his heart and said, “Yes, Jesus lives in me.”
Kids are not the only ones who suffer from separation anxiety. In every stage of life we face times of separation from those we love, sometimes because of geographical distance and sometimes because of death. However, we need to remember that even if we feel forsaken by others, God hasn’t forsaken us. He has promised to be with us always. God sent the Spirit of truth—our Advocate and Helper—to dwell with us and in us forever (John 14:15-18). We are His beloved children.
My son is learning to trust, but so am I. Like my son, I can’t see the Spirit, but I feel His power as each day He encourages me and guides me as I read God’s Word. Let us thank God for His wonderful provision, the Spirit of Christ who is with us and in us. We are certainly not alone!
Lord, thank You for Your Holy Spirit who lives in me.
We are never alone.
INSIGHT:
In today’s passage Jesus describes the promised Spirit as an advocate (v. 15). The original Greek word is paraklete, which literally means “someone called alongside to help.” Some translations render the word as counselor or comforter. While those terms convey some of the meaning, advocate adds a different layer to the definition because paraklete was also used to describe someone who served as legal counsel or as a defense attorney. Our Helper—the Spirit of God—was sent by Jesus to help us in our time of need.
No Peas!
November 26, 2015
Read: Psalm 118:1-14 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 27–29 and 1 Peter 3
In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6
When our kids were young, one of them bluntly said “no” when we passed him some peas for dinner. To which we replied, “No what?” We hoped he would say, “No, thank you.” Instead he said, “No peas!” That led to a discussion about the importance of good manners. In fact, we had similar discussions on numerous occasions.
Beyond good manners—which are external—our Lord reminds us that we are to have a heart of gratitude. Scripture contains dozens of reminders that expressing gratitude is of primary importance in our relationship with God. Psalm 118 begins and ends with the exhortation to “give thanks to the Lord” (vv. 1, 29). We are to give thanks when we come into His presence (100:4). And the requests we bring to Him are to be wrapped in a spirit of thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6). Such an attitude of gratitude will help us remember our abundant blessings. Even in the midst of trouble and despair, God’s presence and love are our constant companions.
Giving thanks to God helps us to appreciate our blessings.
It’s no wonder, then, that the psalmist reminds us to “give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Ps. 118:1).
Lord, Your goodness is enough to make me thankful every day. Teach me to live with a thankful heart and remind me to regularly thank You for Your goodness and steadfast love.
It is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. Dietrich Bonhoeffer
INSIGHT:
Today’s psalm celebrates the beautiful deliverance of the Lord. These verses provide a wonderful example of how to thank the Lord for His work in our lives. Verses 1-4 show us that praise is not only personal and private but can be expressed by a whole community. Verses 5-14 encourage us to reflect on our times of need and to celebrate how God has worked in us and through us.
November 26, 2015
Read: Psalm 118:1-14 | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 27–29 and 1 Peter 3
In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
Philippians 4:6
When our kids were young, one of them bluntly said “no” when we passed him some peas for dinner. To which we replied, “No what?” We hoped he would say, “No, thank you.” Instead he said, “No peas!” That led to a discussion about the importance of good manners. In fact, we had similar discussions on numerous occasions.
Beyond good manners—which are external—our Lord reminds us that we are to have a heart of gratitude. Scripture contains dozens of reminders that expressing gratitude is of primary importance in our relationship with God. Psalm 118 begins and ends with the exhortation to “give thanks to the Lord” (vv. 1, 29). We are to give thanks when we come into His presence (100:4). And the requests we bring to Him are to be wrapped in a spirit of thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6). Such an attitude of gratitude will help us remember our abundant blessings. Even in the midst of trouble and despair, God’s presence and love are our constant companions.
Giving thanks to God helps us to appreciate our blessings.
It’s no wonder, then, that the psalmist reminds us to “give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Ps. 118:1).
Lord, Your goodness is enough to make me thankful every day. Teach me to live with a thankful heart and remind me to regularly thank You for Your goodness and steadfast love.
It is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. Dietrich Bonhoeffer
INSIGHT:
Today’s psalm celebrates the beautiful deliverance of the Lord. These verses provide a wonderful example of how to thank the Lord for His work in our lives. Verses 1-4 show us that praise is not only personal and private but can be expressed by a whole community. Verses 5-14 encourage us to reflect on our times of need and to celebrate how God has worked in us and through us.