Today in the Word Devotional: Recent Episodes
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Today in the Word is a daily audio devotional available via podcast. Today in the Word features solid biblical content and study that models the mission and values of Moody Bible Institute.
What animal is mentioned most often in the Bible? If you guessed “sheep,” you are right! Sheep were an important part of the economy of ancient Israel. It is no surprise that many biblical characters spent at least some of their life as shepherds, including Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Moses, David, and Amos. Shepherding in Israel was different than it is today. There were no fenced-in fields. Instead, shepherds had to be with their sheep to protect them from predators, lead them to good pasture, shelter them from the weather, and tend to their injuries. Shepherds became symbols of good leadership. Like shepherds, good leaders are compassionate, caring, and protective of those under their care. In today’s reading, God denounces the so-called shepherds of Israel. The priests and leaders of Israel had failed. They had extorted their people and did not care for them (vv. 2–4). They have not tended the sick and weak or sought the lost. They did not lead with compassion but with harsh brutality (v. 4). God declares that He will personally shepherd His people (v. 11). He will seek the lost, heal the sick, provide, and protect His people (vv. 11–14). This type of leadership is personal, sacrificial, and loving. He protects the weak from the oppression of the strong (vv. 20–21). In verses 23–24, God says He will shepherd His people through “my servant David.” Ezekiel is writing during the exile, long after David. The promise is that there will be a coming Davidic ruler who will be the ultimate Good Shepherd. This promise is fulfilled by the Lord Jesus. Jesus declared, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). >> As followers of Jesus, we have a Shepherd who cares for us, guides us, protects us, and loves us. What a gift this is! Perhaps it is time to return to your image journal and paint an image of a Shepherd caring for the sheep.
The largest bear species in the world is the polar bear. Male polar bears can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and stand up to 9 feet 10 inches tall! While ancient Israel did not have any polar bears, they did have a respect and fear of a bear’s power. There is a proverb in the book of Amos where the prophet says, “It will be as though a man fled from a lion only to meet a bear” (5:19). That is similar to our proverb “Out of the frying pan and into the fire.” In Hosea 13, God pronounces a judgment against the northern kingdom of Israel. Israel had engaged in idol worship and even offered human sacrifices, something God detested. They had done this although God had delivered them from slavery to Egypt and warned them to “acknowledge no God but me, no Savior except me” (v. 4). They forgot their dependence on God and became proud. Because of their rebellion, God declares that He will come as a judge. He uses three animal metaphors to describe His anger toward Israel. He will be like a lion, a leopard, and climactically like a “bear robbed of her cubs” (v. 8). No one wants to get between a bear and its cubs! The image is clear, fierce judgment is coming. Part of God’s judgment is to give Israel what they wanted, the kind of leadership they asked for (v. 10). God knows this will only lead to ruin. God is heartbroken over the sin of His people. This passage reminds us of the seriousness of sin. God is not to be trifled with. He desires our allegiance. >> In modern culture, we tend to focus on God as love. We see Him as our friend. But it’s good to remember that we serve a powerful, almighty God who will judge and punish sin. Understanding this attribute of God makes us even more thankful for our salvation.
A baby bird is entirely dependent on its parents for survival. The tiny creature lacks the ability to procure food or defend itself, even against the least agile predators. For safety a baby bird relies on its parents. In the face of danger, many bird species will shield their young by covering them with their wings, safeguarding them from predators or inclement weather. Today’s reading abounds with protective metaphors for God. God is a “shelter,” “refuge,” and “fortress” (vv. 1–2). One of the most poignant metaphors compares God to a bird sheltering its offspring under its wings. For a baby bird, there is no safer place on earth than under the wing of the parent. The Bible frequently states that we live in a world filled with threats. This psalm lists pestilence, plagues, and the threat of foreign armies as just a few examples (vv. 6–8). These threats can easily become the focus of our lives. We worry about losing our job, our health, or our relationships. The truth is that sometimes we do lose those things. The world is not a safe place. Yet, this psalm reminds us of another reality. These threats are not beyond God’s protective care or supervision. How are we to understand the lavish promises in this psalm? The psalmist declares that “no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent” (v. 10). Yet we may wonder why our daily experience proves otherwise. Many of the most godly people in the Bible faced persecution and suffering. These promises are best understood when referring to God’s ultimate defeat of evil at the return of Christ. While sitting in a prison cell, Paul wrote, “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:18). >> Are you facing difficulties? No matter how threatening life can be on earth, nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. His is a wing under which you can always find shelter.
Did you know that Benjamin Franklin once proposed that a turkey should represent the United States on our national seal? Most Americans are probably grateful that instead, in 1782, the bald eagle was selected to adorn the Great Seal. The eagle has been a symbol of power and strength from ancient times. In Exodus 19, we read about another nation, Israel, that arrived at Mount Sinai. In this important passage, God summarizes the covenant relationship into which He was inviting Israel to enter with Him. He reminds Israel what He had done: “You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings” (v. 4). Here God compares His actions in the Exodus story to an eagle, symbolizing the speed and power of His deliverance. God makes an important point about why He delivered Israel. He did it not only to save Israel from slavery but also to bring them to Himself (v. 4). He desired to be in a close relationship with them. When we think about our salvation, it is important to remember the same truth. God delivered us not only to save us from sin and judgment but also to bring us into a relationship with Him (1 Cor. 1:9). In the remainder of the passage, God outlines His purpose for calling Israel. He called Israel to be His special people so they would be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (v. 6). They were not to ignore the rest of the world but represent God to them. They could do this through example, witness, and by keeping and proclaiming God’s Word. >> We are grateful that our God has brought salvation for His people. As those who hope in Him, we can claim this promise: “Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isa. 40:31).
So far in our study, we have reflected on objects that are used as metaphors for God. God has been compared to light, a refuge, water, a rock, fire, a shield, and a strong tower. Today and for the next few days we will examine passages that compare God to an animal. In Isaiah 31, the prophet was addressing a nation in crisis. The fierce Assyrian army had threatened Judah’s existence. Judah looked to Egypt for an ally, thinking that if they could associate with another powerful nation, they could save themselves. God warns Judah not to be like those who “trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel, or seek help from the LORD” (v. 1). Our God is a greater ally than any human army (v. 3). To drive this point home, God paints a vivid image. Imagine a lion crouched over and defending its prey. Even if a group of shepherds tried to scare the lion away, it is not going anywhere (v. 4). That is how fiercely God will protect Judah. The image of a lion evokes great power and irresistible strength. We have a bike path by our house with a particular spot where red-winged blackbirds nest. In the spring, when we walk by that area, we are often bombarded by protective blackbird mothers. That is similar to another animal image God uses for Himself here: “Like birds hovering overhead, the LORD Almighty will shield Jerusalem” (v. 5). >> Because God is fiercely powerful and protective of His children, we have no reason to fear. While we may not have an army breathing down our neck, we still worry about things such as the economy, job loss, or cultural change. Take comfort that God is the same today as He was in the past. He shelters and protects His own.
Have you ever heard of someone who lives in an “ivory tower”? That kind of image is often used to describe someone who is out of touch with reality. While they might be highly educated, they lack first-hand life experience. The word “tower” occurs 50 times in the Bible, but never in that sense. The tower in the Bible refers to a military fortress. Cities had towers built into the corners of the wall as defensive fortifications. They also had a tower in the middle of the city as a final stronghold if the enemy was able to breech the outer wall. If you lived in a city in ancient Israel, these towers would be a daily visual reminder of a place of safety and security. In today’s reading there are two proverbs that are intentionally paired with one another in verses 10–11. These two verses paint a contrasting picture between the righteous and the wealthy. Where do they turn for safety and security? For the righteous, “the name of the LORD is a fortified tower” (v. 10). They find their security and trust in God. When difficulties come, they know exactly where to go. They do not hesitate or wander between this tower and that one. Instead, they “run to it [the LORD] and are safe” (v. 10). By contrast, the strong tower of the rich is often their wealth (v. 11). They “imagine it a wall too high to scale” (v. 11). The word “imagine” is the key one. They think their wealth will save them but it is no match for the kind of strong tower that the Lord provides. Not every wealthy person trusts in their riches instead of God. But trusting in wealth is a special challenge for those who have much (Matt. 19:23–24). >> Take a few minutes and reflect on the image of God as a tower. Where do you run to for safety and security? When challenges come in life, do you run to the Lord?
When you think of a shield, what comes to mind? Superheroes? Knights of the Round Table? In Genesis 15, God describes Himself as “a shield.” Abram had just rescued his nephew Lot along with the other residents of Sodom and Gomorrah from a group of marauding kings (Gen. 14:1–24). This was a stunning military achievement for a man who was not an experienced warrior. Clearly, God had been at work. Yet, the victory put Abram in a vulnerable position. He had made enemies. Remember that he was not living among his own people and could not count on the support of those around him. God appeared to Abram in a vision and said, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward” (v. 1). A shield was designed to protect a soldier from arrows or spear thrusts. God told Abram that he had no cause for worry. He would protect him. Abram’s response is surprising. He asks God how he can trust His promise since he was still childless (vv. 2–3). Remember, God had promised that Abram’s offspring would become a great nation (Gen. 12:1–3). Years had gone by, yet Sarah and Abram still did not have any children. Abram wondered if God was able to keep this new promise if He had not followed through on the first one. God asked Abram to come outside and look at the stars. Imagine being in the wilderness with no ambient light. God proclaimed, “So shall your offspring be” (v. 5). God was reminding Abram that He has created the stars. Could not the One who spoke the universe into existence be trusted to keep His word today? Abram believed God (v. 6). >> God is your shield. He protects and defends you as well. Just like Abram, we are called to trust in God and His Word. We can be grateful that the Creator of the universe is active on our behalf today.
Can you imagine a world without fire? Fire provides us with light in the dark and warmth in the cold. Fire enables us to cook food, refine metals, and power a car. Yet, fire is also dangerous. It can destroy homes and cities. The ancient Greek culture highlighted the importance of fire by naming it as one of the four basic elements along with water, air, and earth. In the Old Testament, God’s appearances are often described as fire. God appeared to Abraham as a torch of fire (Gen. 15:17). He appeared to Moses in the burning bush and as a fire on Mount Sinai (Ex. 3:2; 19:18). Fire symbolizes God’s holiness and purity. Fire is also used to portray God’s anger. The prophet Nahum asks, “Who can withstand his indignation? Who can endure his fierce anger? His wrath is poured out like fire; the rocks are shattered before him” (Nah. 1:6). In today’s reading, Moses reminds Israel that God did not appear to them in the form of any image or shape. Instead, God spoke to them “out of the fire” (v. 15). Fire is flickering and immaterial (the opposite of solid). The choice of fire was meant to teach Israel that they should not make an image of God in the form of any created thing (vv. 16–19). Their worship of God should not be inspired by an object. Instead, they should remember what God had done for them. How He had redeemed them from Egypt (v. 20). Their focus should be on God’s words and deeds. >> We may be tempted to worship a god created by our own imagination. John Calvin remarked that the human heart is “a perpetual factory of idols.” Yet, God made Himself known to us in Scripture. He desires our full and undivided worship. If we turn to false gods, we risk being the object of God’s anger. As Moses reminds us, “the LORD your God is a consuming fire” (v. 24).
Looking back on his life, David must have been amazed at all the trials he had endured and how much he had accomplished. He began his journey as a humble shepherd, went on to face the giant Goliath, served in Saul’s court, became a fugitive living in the wilderness, worked as a hired soldier for the Philistines, and ultimately ascended to the throne of Israel. In 2 Samuel 22, David reflects on a time when God delivered him from Saul. Although he may have composed this poem shortly after the event, it is included at this point in the book to provide a fitting summary of David’s relationship with God. In the central image of this poem, David describes God as a rock. “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge” (v. 2). “For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God?” (v. 32). In a world before the invention of powerful drills or explosives, a rock was the ultimate picture of stability and strength. If you were wandering in the desert, a rock would be a welcome sight. It would provide needed shade and shelter from the sun. Throughout the trials of David’s life, God had been his rock. God was his source of safety and security. No matter what he was going through, he could call upon the Lord knowing that God would hear and provide (v. 7). When it seemed like the world was crashing down around him, he could count on God (v. 8). >> God is your rock too! Solid. Strong. Certain. We can cling to Him when everything else seems uncertain, knowing that He will never let us down. God met our deepest need through the death and resurrection of Jesus for our sin. We can declare with David, “The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be my God, the Rock, my Savior!” (v. 47).
Water is one of our most basic needs. Without it, our bodies quickly break down. Yet, it is very easy to take it for granted. When I get home from work, my wife has never asked me, “Did you get enough water to drink today?” It just doesn’t seem that important. However, if I did not have easy access to water, it would quickly become an obsession. Psalm 42 opens with one of the most memorable images in the Psalter. The Psalmist’s longing for God is compared to a deer in the wilderness panting for water. The reason why the psalmist longs for God so desperately is that God seems absent. When things are going well, it is easy to take God for granted. But that is not the case here. The psalmist laments, “My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’” (v. 3). This taunt of his enemies pierces his soul because he wonders about the same thing: Where has God gone? Why has God forgotten me? (v. 9). Yet even amid his sorrow and sense of abandonment, he knows God is with him. He tells himself, “By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me” (v. 8). He preaches to himself, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God” (v. 11). He ultimately knows that God cares for him as his Savior and protector (v. 11). He also knows that he needs God as desperately as a man dying of thirst needs water. >> God is the foundational source of our life. While we may sometimes take God for granted, without His constant care we would not survive. Like the Psalmist, we thirst for God. Even in times of fear or sorrow, we can completely trust in God’s love, care, and provision.
We all remember childhood games where there was a “safe” place. If you got to it, you could not be tagged or pursued. As adults we look to many things for security. When facing difficulty, we turn to our family, our friends, or even the comfort of our home. In today’s reading, David was in a challenging situation. Traps had been set for him (v. 4). He was sorrowful and downcast with grief (vv. 9–10). Not only did his enemies oppose him, but he had become the object of malicious gossip (vv. 11–12). In this crisis, David describes the Lord as his refuge. God is his ultimate safe place. David knows he cannot trust in his own ability, military might, or even the strength of his fortifications. Instead, he asks God to be “my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me” (v. 2). He trusts in God’s faithfulness and acknowledges that “my times are in your hands” (v. 15). He knows God ultimately wants what is best for him (v 19). Over and over in the Psalms, God is described as a refuge. This does not mean that dangers and trials will not come our way. But during these perils, we can turn to God as “our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1). Jesus demonstrated this trust on Good Friday. With His dying breath, He proclaimed to the Father, using the words of this psalm, “Into your hands I commit my spirit” (v. 5; Luke 23:46). God the Father was His refuge. While Jesus would endure the pain of the crucifixion, He would be vindicated in His resurrection. >> Do you think of God as your refuge? He is your safe place when trials come! The psalms proclaim that God is our refuge and strength both for now and for eternity. If you can draw, try to portray a refuge, a hiding place of safety and comfort.
Did you know that the Bible begins and ends with references to light? Light was the first thing God created (Gen. 1:3). In Revelation 22:5, we learn that when we are reunited with Jesus all traces of darkness will finally be gone: “There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light.” In the Bible, light is a representation of God’s presence and glory (2 Chron. 5:13–14; Ex. 34:29). Light stands for goodness and holiness as opposed to evil (John 3:20). Light is truth as opposed to the darkness of falsehood (Ps. 19:8; 119:105). Light is a symbol of God’s favor and blessing (Prov. 4:18; Num. 6:24–26). Today’s passage, Isaiah 60:1–22, looks forward to the redemption of Israel: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you” (v. 1). During the millennial kingdom, Israel will recognize the Messiah and the nations will stream to Zion to know the Lord (v. 3). In this time, God is described as light, “the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end” (v. 20). The hope that Isaiah 60 describes is for Israel and the nations to be in the “everlasting light” of the Lord (v. 20). This means they will be in the very presence of God and fully experience His glory. At that time, evil will be abolished and defeated (v. 21). Throughout this passage and elsewhere through Scripture, light is used as a symbol of God’s blessing and favor. We look forward to this time when God’s everlasting light will abolish darkness for good! >> Can you imagine living in God’s presence away from the effects of sin? Can you imagine a world where truth wins? No more darkness. No more sorrow! One day all people will submit to the Lord Jesus. That is our future hope.
“The LORD is my shepherd.” Psalm 23 contains one of the most famous images of God in the Bible. In the original language, the phrase is only two words long. Yet, it would take a whole book to fully unpack its depth of meaning. This month, we will look at the way God reveals His character to us through images. In the Old Testament, God is described as a light, a shield, a rock, an eagle, a potter, a craftsman, an artist, a warrior, and a king, to name just a few. The images of God in the Bible are not meant to be exact or perfect representations. When the Bible compares God to a shepherd, it helps us more fully understand who He is. For example, shepherds in ancient Israel were often servants or hired hands. This does not mean that God is a hired hand. But Psalm 23 shows us how God is like a shepherd. He provides for us: “I lack nothing” (v. 1). What a powerful statement! He guides our way and cares for our needs: “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters” (v. 2). God protects, loves, and cares for His people. In the same way, we are a lot like sheep. We trust our Shepherd and are blessed when we follow Him. A theologian explains how the Bible’s use of metaphor helps ignite our understanding: “Metaphor consists in bringing two sets of ideas close together, close enough for a spark to jump, but not too close, so that the spark, in jumping, illuminates for a moment the whole area around, changing perceptions as it does so.” We hope that this study will draw you closer to God and deepen your understanding of who He is. >> Since we are studying images, why not start a picture journal? Whether you are artistic or just love to doodle, try to capture images that teach you something about God using paint, colored pencils, or even crayons.
Salvation is by grace. We cannot earn it. The gift we have received from Christ is so great that we could never pay it back. And although we cannot repay this debt, we still owe something to Jesus. As the old song says, “Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.” As we close our study of Paul’s letters from prison, we are reminded of all that we owe to Jesus. Many of the Christian duties Paul emphasized in his prison letters, especially in those sections that describe the nature of the Christian life, come together in the apostle’s appeal to Philemon. Philemon owes a debt of gratitude to Paul (v. 19). Onesimus, who had broken the law by running away, owes it to Philemon to return to him but in a humble spirit (v. 11; see also Eph. 6:5-6; Col. 3:22). Philemon, in turn, has an obligation to recognize that he and Onesimus are equals in Christ. Now that he belongs to Christ, Onesimus is “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave.” He should be even dearer to Philemon than he is to Paul “as a fellow man and as a brother in the Lord” (v.16). Paul’s request calls for sacrifice on both parts. Onesimus sacrifices his pride by returning to his old master. Philemon will lose a servant if he sends Onesimus back to Paul. Commentators are divided on whether Paul expects Philemon to free Onesimus. Elsewhere, however, Paul warns Christians not to become enslaved and urges those who already are slaves to obtain their freedom if possible (1 Cor. 7:21–23). Paul tells Philemon to charge any wrong that Onesimus has done or debt he has incurred to Paul’s account (v. 18). If there is shared loss, there is also love. Love for one another, and ultimately for Christ. >> As we conclude these studies of Paul’s letters from prison, what are your takeaways? What have you learned about the Christian life? How has Paul encouraged you to become more faithful to Jesus?
Frederick Douglass wrote, “I prayed for freedom for twenty years, but received no answer until I prayed with my legs.” Onesimus tried to obtain his freedom in the same way. He ran away from Philemon’s household and somehow ran into Paul, “the prisoner of Christ Jesus.” Paul doesn’t say how he and Onesimus became acquainted. What the apostle does reveal is that he had been instrumental in his conversion. In verse 10, Paul explains that Onesimus “became my son while I was in chains.” It is possible that Paul already knew Onesimus before. In verse 6, he describes Philemon as a partner in the faith. In addition to being one of those who supported Paul financially, Philemon had also come to faith under Paul’s preaching (see v. 19). But Paul wrote this personal letter to inform Philemon that Onesimus had become a Christian and was now “a dear brother” (v. 16). Indirectly, Paul was asking Philemon to welcome Onesimus back and then return him to the apostle (vv. 8, 12–13). More than a help, Onesimus had become like a son to Paul (v. 10). When he describes Onesimus as “useful” in verse 11, he is making a pun based on his name, which means “helpful” or “profitable.” It may bother us that Paul did not tell Philemon directly that it was his moral obligation to grant Onesimus freedom. Indeed, Paul never speaks of the morality of slavery. Nor does he flex his apostolic muscles, although he gives a gentle reminder of his authority when he speaks of his request as something that Philemon “ought” to do (v. 8). Paul’s gentle tone is a testimony to his confidence in Philemon and to the transforming power of the gospel. Although a prisoner, Paul was used by God to introduce Onesimus to the freedom of Christ. >> We are all slaves and prisoners when it comes to sin. But Jesus promised, “...if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Have you ever been in a workplace where everyone got along perfectly all the time? What about a family? Or a sports team? Living in community with harmony does not come automatically. It’s a learned skill. That’s true in the Christian life. It is no accident that God designed the church to function as a body (see Col. 3:15). As he closes this letter, Paul sends personal greetings to several people in the Colossian church. He also mentions members of his ministry team. Tychicus and Onesimus probably brought this letter to Colosse (vv. 7–9). Onesimus is an individual we will learn about in the next two days since he is the subject of Paul’s letter to Philemon. Paul also mentions names that we may recognize from other letters. The apostle conveys the greetings of Aristarchus alongside those of Mark and Barnabas. During Paul’s first missionary journey, he and Barnabas had a falling out because of Mark (Acts 15:36–40). By the time this letter was written, they had reconciled (2 Tim. 4:11). In verse 14 Paul writes, “Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings.” We know Luke as the author of the third Gospel and the book of Acts. Demas, however, had a scandalous reputation. Several years after Colossians was written, love for this world motivated Demas to desert Paul (2 Tim. 4:10). Archippus, mentioned in verse 17, will also show up in Paul’s letter to Philemon. Here the tone seems to be one of reproof. “Complete the ministry,” Paul says, implying that Paul fears he might not. Paul clearly realized that not all members of the church would get along all the time. Even so, he urges believers toward the unity we have in Christ. >> Christian living is a team sport. Not everyone on the team plays well. Nor do they always play well together. No matter how much we do for Jesus, we never outgrow our need for grace, patience, and forgiveness.
Most sermons begin with a prayer. Sometimes we are tempted to treat it as a formality, like playing the national anthem before the game. Paul saw prayer as far more. For him, it was a source of help and power. Sometimes when we pray, we say we are having our “devotions.” But in verse 2, Paul urges the Colossians to “devote” themselves to prayer. The Greek expresses the idea of being busily engaged with something. Prayer is not a formality but an occupation. Furthermore, it is a demanding occupation. It requires the disposition of someone who is on guard and keeping watch. Prayer also requires a particular kind of expectation. Not the disposition of someone who makes demands but a grateful and trusting spirit that believes that God will answer in a way best suited to our needs. Paul asked the Colossians to pray that God would “open a door for our message” (v. 3). This is a striking request given his circumstance. We might have expected him, as a prisoner, to ask for his freedom or maybe for justice. Instead, he asks for an opportunity to make Christ known. Paul’s request reflects not only his sense of mission but also his conviction that success in preaching is dependent upon God. In addition to opportunity, Paul asked for clarity: “Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should” (v. 4). The skill that is required to preach is also a work of God. Most opportunities to proclaim Christ happen outside the assembly of believers. That’s why Paul urges the Colossians to season their ordinary conversations with grace and salt (v. 6). Grace does not mean elegant speech but the message of grace. Salt alludes to Jesus’ command that His disciples be “the salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13). >> You do not need to be a pastor to proclaim the grace of Christ. As you pray today, ask God to give you the opportunity, clarity, and courage to tell someone about Jesus.
As Christians, we are a part of two families. The first is made up of those people to whom we are related by birth or have joined through marriage. We gather for holidays and birthdays. Sometimes we share physical features. For believers, our other family is the church, the family of God. Sometimes these two groups overlap. Paul speaks to both in Colossians 3:12–21. The church’s basic rule is love and the recognition that all Christians are bound together in Him (v. 12). The church is not a perfect community. Participation often requires patience and forgiveness from those who are part of it (v. 13). Paul describes the church as a worshiping community, constituted by the Word of God (v. 16). Those who make up the church are “members of one body” who speak and act “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (vv. 15, 17). This is a community whose only boundary is Christ Himself. It is not limited by ethnicity, gender, economic status, or nationality (see also v. 11). What Paul describes in verses 18–25 is more accurately a household than a family. The fact that Paul includes slaves is significant because it introduces a cultural element into the idea. God established the family as a divine institution in Creation. The New Testament household Paul describes has the family at its core. But the apostle also includes slaves, a social structure God did not establish. He urges slaves to remember that God accepts their sincere service as being offered to Him (v. 22). Christians live in a fallen world that has been shaped by God and has also been altered by sin. We are bound to live by the Word of God while in it. >> Even though our social systems are sometimes broken, it does not exempt us from the responsibility of living Christianly within them. Are you a member of a less than ideal family? Seek God’s wisdom, then trust and obey.
The other day during a conversation with one of my grown sons, I noticed a familiar facial expression and gesture. It was a bit like looking in a mirror. How did he learn it? Was it DNA or imitation? Perhaps it was a little of both. Living the Christian life is similar in one respect. There is a place for imitating Christ, but it is ultimately grounded in something much deeper. Christian living involves three important actions that are noted in Colossians 3: seeking, being, and doing. In verse 1, Paul urges us to “set your heart on things above.” The Greek word means to “seek.” It is referring to our aspiration and pursuit, but it is not “pie in the sky.” This seeking is only possible because the Christian has been united with Christ in His death and resurrection (vv. 1, 3). Being and seeking lead to doing. The Christian seeks the things above by living in the power of the cross. We put to death “whatever belongs to your earthly nature” by saying no to those sinful impulses that were part of our former life (v. 5). Our earthly nature, as Paul describes these sinful impulses, continues to assert itself even after we have been saved. Paul describes it almost as if it were an alien force. It may stir within us, but it is not who we are in Christ. Paul calls the Colossians (and us) to cast off the vestiges of the old self and walk in the new self (vv. 7–10). The change in life that Paul envisions for the Christian is not instantaneous. We are “being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (v. 10). The Greek verb is in the present tense. Our new life in Christ is a continuous and transforming experience. >> Christians do not walk a certain way so that we can obtain new life. That life is already yours if you are in Christ! Now, what we need to do, is walk in it.
Pastor and author Kent Hughes observes that legalism reduces the message of the gospel. He explains that it “enshrines spirituality as a series of wooden laws” and calls it godliness. “Being in Christ is a relationship,” he explains, “and like all relationships, it deserves disciplined maintenance, but never legalistic reductionism.” This kind of false teaching had crept into the Colossian church. Based on Paul’s rebuke in verses 16 and 21, they had begun to observe particular days as sacred and certain foods as religiously clean or unclean. It is unclear whether Paul had in mind legalists who wanted Christians to follow the law of Moses or the kind of rigid rule-following associated with some forms of mystery religions. Perhaps he had both in view. His statement (v. 17) that dietary rules and the observance of special days are only a shadow of the reality found in Christ sounds much like the argument made in the book of Hebrews. His warning about the false worship of angels (v. 18) may refer to Gnostic ideas about spiritual intermediaries or certain magical practices involving angels. Legalism does not work! Legalism will not help us control the flesh. Instead, it promotes spiritual pride. A Christian who falls into this way of thinking has forgotten the power of the cross. Christ’s victory over sin is the only thing that can truly keep us from “sensual indulgence” (v. 23). The rituals and observances of the Mosaic law were fulfilled with the coming of Christ. The rules and regulations of this type of religion have no lasting value and are “destined to perish with use” (v. 22). Without the power of the cross, the harshest discipline is merely a show. >> Sometimes we may be tempted to reduce the message of the gospel to a list of “dos and don’ts.” Be careful not to let someone else’s judgment about such matters control your practice. Instead, rely on the grace of God in Christ to make you righteous.
The second-century church leader Irenaeus famously said, “Life in man is the glory of God; the life of man is the vision of God.” In Colossians 2, Paul is also talking about life and our vision of God. Christian living, he points out, is the life of Christ at work in us. Our knowledge of God comes through Christ (v. 3). When we accept Him as Lord, we are empowered to live under His rule (v. 6). Instead of being taken in by fine-sounding arguments, “human tradition,” or speculating about “elemental spiritual forces” (v. 8), we look to Christ to understand what God is like (v. 9). The themes Paul emphasizes in verses 9–12 counter some of the false teachings that the Colossians faced at the time. It appears that false teachers in Colosse were denying that Christ was truly human. They speculated about a vast hierarchy of spiritual powers and authorities and taught that circumcision was necessary for salvation. In contrast, the gospel teaches that Jesus is enough. We are complete in Him (v. 10). More than this, we are united with Christ in such a way that His death becomes ours. This union with Christ in His death is the spiritual reality that Old Testament circumcision symbolized (v. 11). Believers, who are united with Christ in His resurrection and by it, have been made “alive with Christ” (vv. 13–14). By dying on our behalf, Jesus paid the debt. By rising from the dead, Jesus triumphed over evil (v. 15). This is just the basic gospel. Yet it is a message of immense spiritual power. Those who know Christ are alive in Christ. The glory of God is the believer truly alive in Christ. >> Can you say that you are alive in Christ? The key is to come to Him in faith. Recognize that He died and rose for you. Trust in Him today, and His victory will be yours. For more information on what it means to be a Christian, go to moodybible.org/ knowing-christ.
If you ask the average person to describe what it means to be a Christian, they will probably identify a moral view, lifestyle choice, or even a political position. While Christianity does have implications for all these areas, that is not what it means to be a Christian. Today’s passage reveals that Jesus Christ is the essence of the Christian faith. The heart of the Christian message has to do with the nature of Christ and the reason He shed His blood on the cross. Paul describes Jesus as both “the image of the invisible God” and “the firstborn over all creation” (v. 15). Paul’s choice of words is deliberate, probably intended to counter aspects of the false teaching that had crept into the church in Colosse. By taking a human nature, Jesus brings the image of the invisible God to light. The fact that Paul calls him the “firstborn” does not mean that Jesus was the first created being; it means that He is superior to creation. Jesus existed as God before He was born in Bethlehem. Indeed, He existed as God before anything was created (v. 17). As Creator, Jesus upholds all creation. Paul goes on to say that Jesus died “to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross” (v. 20). By “all things,” he primarily means people who are alienated from God because of sin (v. 21). As Creator, Jesus is the glue that holds the universe together. But He is also the Redeemer who reconciles us to God by the death of His physical body (v. 22). Paul reminds the Colossians that this was the message that was preached to them. It is the bedrock of the Christian faith. >> With so many varying ideas about Christianity swirling about, we must remember the first principles of our faith. Christianity is about Jesus, the Creator who took on human nature to die for us.
As I write these words, an impromptu prayer meeting that began after a chapel service at Asbury College in Kentucky had been going nonstop for more than a week. There have been many reports of blessing and a sense of the presence of the Lord. I doubt that the apostle Paul would have been surprised by this. In today’s reading, we get a snapshot of Paul’s lifestyle of prayer. Every time Colossians came to mind, he gave thanks for them (v. 3). Located in the Lycus valley near the city of Laodicea, Colosse, had fallen on hard times by Paul’s day. But of even greater concern was a form of teaching that had begun to creep into the church. Paul does not give many details in this letter. He is more interested in dwelling on the truth than in detailing all the false tenets of something he describes as a “hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ” (Colossians 2:8). Paul’s prayers for the Colossians focused primarily on two things. The apostle prayed that the Holy Spirit would grant them wisdom and understanding to know how they should live. He also asked that God’s Spirit would strengthen them with power so that they would live out the truth as it was revealed to them (1:9–12). Paul did not pray for them to live this way in order to be redeemed. They were already saved. He prayed this way because redemption had already come to them through Christ. Jesus had already “qualified” them to “share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light” (v. 12). >> This lifestyle is as possible for us as it was for the Colossians. God “has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves” (v. 13). In Christ, we have redemption, which Paul defines further in verse 14 as “the forgiveness of sins.”
A woman recently posted a video of her husband trying to mow their huge lawn with a small push-style lawnmower, an impossible task. But when she looked outside an hour later, she saw several neighbors, people they had not yet met, arriving with larger riding lawnmowers. She was deeply moved by their willingness to step in and help someone in need. We often turn to friends to lighten our cares. In verse 10, Paul describes his joy over the church’s “renewed” concern for him. Their support had lapsed due to a lack of “opportunity” rather than disinterest. Yet he takes pains to assure them that, as much as he appreciated their help, he was not dependent upon it (v. 11). God’s supply was the secret of Paul’s contentment. He does not mean a supply of things but a constant supply of strength (v. 13). God does not always give us what we want. He does provide all we need. This helpfulness from the church at Philippi was not something new for Paul. Despite their poverty, they had supported his work since the beginning of their church (v. 15). At one point, apart from Paul’s work as a tentmaker, their help appears to have been his primary source of financial support. The phrase “giving and receiving” (v. 15) was a standard formula for financial transactions where one person gives money to another. Unlike many false teachers, however, Paul was not for hire. He had no interest in making a profit off the church. He was more interested in the blessing the Philippian believers received through their giving than he was in the gifts themselves (v. 17). Paul used a worship model and not a business model to fund his ministry. He understood that Philippian generosity was a sacrifice offered to and accepted by God (v. 18). >> The apostle did not discourage them from giving because he was confident that God would supply their need just as He had provided for Paul’s needs (v. 19). He will do the same for you!
One day, not long after I had begun to follow Jesus, I walked out the door and met a friend coming up the street. He was on his way to my house. “I came to see you because someone told me you had lost your mind,” he said. Word had gotten around that I had become a Christian. But despite what my friend had heard, I had not lost my mind. Like the prodigal son in Jesus’ parable, I had finally come to my senses. The Christian life is a life of the soul, but it is also a life of the mind. We believe with the heart, but what is believed is truth. “The heart is always to be influenced through the understanding—the mind, then the heart, then the will,” Welsh minister Martyn Lloyd-Jones observed. Like Paul, the Philippian church was not perfect. As probably true for all churches, the members had personality conflicts and stresses that created problems for them. The solution was to think rightly. Consider the case of Euodia and Syntyche, two women Paul viewed with high regard and considered to be colleagues. He pled with them to “be of the same mind in the Lord” (v. 2). He recognized that they might need a mediator. In verse 3 he asks someone he trusts in the church to help them resolve their differences. Paul believed they could be brought together by their shared experience of Christ. While they may not agree on every point, they must learn how to unite in Christ. The other issue was the problem of anxiety. Philippi was not an easy place to be a Christian. In verses 4–7 Paul urged them to set their hope on the Lord’s return and to voice their concerns to the Lord. >> Much of the media that occupies our attention is the opposite of true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. How would following this advice affect your entertainment choices?
C. T. Studd was born to wealth and prestige on December 2, 1860. He distinguished himself as an athlete while a student at Eton. But when Studd was 24 years old, his brother became gravely ill. C. T. began to question the course of his life and decided that it came up wanting. “What is all the fame and flattery worth...when a man comes to face eternity?” he wondered. Studd determined to let it all go and devote himself to Christ. Paul made a similar choice. His achievements were not on the cricket field, as C. T. Studd’s were. Paul’s accomplishments were religious. He gives us his resume in verses 4–6, noting that if anyone had a reason to be confident in his own spiritual efforts, it was him. But an encounter with Jesus Christ changed everything. Paul suddenly realized that what he had been trusting in was not true righteousness but self-righteousness. Like Studd, he chose to let it go. Compared to the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ, Paul felt his own attempts were mere “garbage” (v. 8). In verse 9, the apostle explains the difference between the two approaches. One was a “righteousness of my own that comes from the law,” and the other was “the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” Paul wanted the Philippians to know his story because they were tempted by preachers who distorted the gospel. These teachers claimed it was necessary to be circumcised and obey the law of Moses to be saved. The apostle disagrees with them (v. 2), calling them dogs, evildoers, and mutilators of the flesh (an allusion to the practice of circumcision). His strong language is a reminder that there is no common ground between these two approaches. >> Do you expect God to accept you because of your own efforts and religious practices? Let it all go. Turn to Christ and receive His righteousness as a gift through faith.
Can you have both fear and love? 1 John 4:18 observes, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” Yet in Philippians 2, Paul urges his readers to work out their salvation “in fear and trembling.” What is the difference between these two kinds of fear? The difference is the fear of punishment. Paul does not urge the Philippians to work out their salvation for fear of losing it if they fail to perform well. Neither was Paul urging them to work for their salvation. He assures them, in verse 13, that God was already working in them “to will and to act.” Instead, he is talking about a salvation they have already begun to experience. New Testament scholar H. C. G. Moule describes this sort of fear as “a reverent and wakeful conscience in his holy presence.” To help them with this, Paul hoped to send his protégé Timothy soon to take stock of the situation and bring back a report (vv. 19 23). For now, he was sending them Epaphroditus who had been their connection to Paul. Epaphroditus was probably sent by the church with funds to help Paul’s ministry and to assist in other ways. In verse 25, the apostle calls him a messenger or minister sent to care for Paul’s needs. Paul also calls him a brother, co- worker, and fellow soldier. Working out our salvation is the process God uses to help us fully grasp the reality of a salvation that Jesus Christ has already accomplished for us. God works from within and sends His servants to help us as they work from the outside. >> The wrong kind of fear can be as crippling to spiritual growth as complacency. Don’t freeze up in fear. Instead, draw near to God with a reverent awareness of His presence.
Followers of Jesus initially called themselves “the Way” (Acts 9:2; 19:9, 23; 24:14, 22). When the gospel came to Antioch, some people began to refer to them as Christians (Acts 11:26). The label signified that they belonged to the group associated with Jesus Christ. Eventually, the believers adopted it themselves. Today, followers of Jesus still call themselves Christians. When we claim this title, we are doing more than identifying with a group or a church. We are identifying with Jesus. According to verse 5, it’s our way of thinking that produces a way of being. We are to have “the same mindset as Christ.” How do we do this? Paul identifies three characteristics. First, we should remember the love, fellowship, tenderness, and compassion we experienced from Christ (v. 1). Second, we acknowledge what Jesus has done both for and in us (vv. 6–11). We must understand the gospel and its implications. Third, we begin to have the mind of Christ when we follow Jesus into His way of life (vv. 2–4). The order is important here. We must know and experience Jesus before we can imitate Him. No doubt this is why Paul spends the bulk of these verses describing the nature of Christ’s work. At its heart, we see a series of actions where Christ “made himself nothing” (v. 7). Theologians have written volumes about this phrase. But Paul explains what he means by it in the verses that follow. Jesus made Himself nothing by taking on human nature and humbling Himself to the point of death on the cross (vv. 7–8). Because He did this, “God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name” (v. 9). >> The path that Jesus took is also the path of the Christian’s life. We do not imitate Christ so that we can be saved but because we were saved by Jesus who “made Himself nothing.”
In the account of his conversion, Surprised by Joy, C. S. Lewis describes joy as “a pointer to something other and outer.” The joy Paul writes about in the first chapter of Philippians serves the same function. Given Paul’s circumstances, we may be surprised to read that he rejoices. Not only was he a prisoner, but others were using his confinement as an opportunity to get ahead. They seemed to view the gospel ministry as a competition. “It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill,” Paul admits in verse 15. But with a remarkable generosity of spirit, the apostle resolved to rejoice that no matter the motive, Christ was being preached (v. 18). Paul’s imprisonment was a concern for his friends at Philippi. The apostle reassured them in two ways. First, he pointed out that what might seem like a setback was bringing attention to the gospel. How? Through Paul’s ministry to the palace guard in Rome and by the preaching of others (vv. 13–14). Second, Paul assured them that their prayers would make a difference. He expected their prayers, along with God’s provision of His Spirit, to “turn out for my deliverance” (v. 19). Note how Paul defines deliverance. For the apostle, it meant the courage to trust that Christ would be glorified by whatever happened to him (v. 20). Paul did not feel the need to decide what God should do, in part because he felt genuinely ambivalent. As Paul puts it: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (v. 21). This is not fatalism but the hope of one who knows his future is secure in Christ and God will be glorified either way. >> Will you trust God to work through your difficult circumstances today? You don’t have to be happy about them or even enjoy them. You do need to trust that God knows what He is doing.
If you had asked Paul which of the New Testament churches was his favorite, he might probably have said: the church at Philippi. God directed the apostle by a vision to go to Macedonia after he tried to enter Bithynia (Acts 16:9). Philippi was a major city in the region. Still, at first, it must have seemed not promising. Paul began his evangelistic outreach in the synagogue. The Jewish community at Philippi was small; only a handful of women met by a river outside the city gate. But the Lord opened the heart of Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman from Thyatira, and her home became Paul’s base of operations (Acts 16:14–15). Luke does not say how long Paul and Silas stayed in Philippi, but their visit was long enough to be marked by conflict. They were arrested and beaten, with the jailer being the only other convert that Luke mentions in Acts 16. Despite these small beginnings, this church became an unwavering supporter of Paul’s ministry. They shared Paul’s faith and generously shared their finances despite their poverty (see also 2 Cor. 11:9). When Paul speaks of their “partnership,” in verse 5, he uses the word koinonia which means “sharing.” The apostle looked at this church as much more than a source of funding. Although he was the first to bring the gospel to them, he did not look down on them. Despite being an apostle, he saw them as peers in their experience of the grace of God through Christ (v. 7). Therefore, Paul prayed for them, giving thanks and asking God to cause their love and knowledge to grow. This letter is part of God’s answer to that prayer. >> The loving bond the Philippians shared with Paul has blessed the church in all ages. Can you partner with someone in the gospel? You don’t have to possess much to have a great impact.
When I began attending church regularly in the early 1970s, it was customary for people to dress up. Men wore suits and ties, and women wore dresses. Today, there doesn’t seem to be a dress code. Most of the people I see dress casually. It probably doesn’t matter to God what you wear to church. But He does care how you dress for spiritual battle. In today’s text, Paul finishes his letter to the Ephesians by describing the spiritual resources that enable a Christian to “stand against the devil’s schemes” (v. 11). Using the armor and weapons of a Roman soldier as his analogy, Paul shows his readers how to equip themselves for spiritual warfare. Paul explains that we battle against “powers of this dark world” and “spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (v. 12). The struggle is earthly as well as heavenly. We can see the effects of these spiritual forces in our world, but their ultimate cause is not visible. How can we possibly fight against them? The spiritual armor that Paul describes in verses13–17 focuses on two kinds of weapons. Our defensive weapons include: the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, helmet of salvation, readiness which comes from the gospel of peace, and shield of faith. They point to the protection that the righteousness of Christ and the hope of the gospel provide. Our offensive weapon is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. The method of engaging in spiritual warfare that the apostle outlines is simple. Instead of prescribing specific prayers, chants, or elaborate rituals, the apostle asks the Ephesians to “always keep on praying” (v. 18). He also asks them to pray for him so that he will fearlessly proclaim the gospel. The best way to protect ourselves spiritually is to know the gospel and be familiar with God’s Word. >> Do you know a pastor or missionary for whom you can pray? Ask God to help them declare the gospel fearlessly “as they should!”
Escaped slave, abolitionist, and statesmen Frederick Douglass observed, “Between the Christianity of this land and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference—so wide that to receive the one as good, pure, and holy, is of necessity to reject the other as bad, corrupt, and wicked.” Modern readers of today’s passage are often troubled to see Paul include masters and slaves in his directions about how Christian families ought to operate. It is a fact, however, that in the New Testament era, slaves were considered a part of the household as much as children were. Obedience was expected of both (vv. 1, 6). As we read Paul’s directives, it is crucial to recognize that he is not endorsing the practice of slavery (see this month’s “Practical Theology” column). Rather, he is offering guidelines for Christians forced to live within that social structure. He does not tell them to unravel the practice but to be Christlike within its constraints. His directions to children, however, while essentially the same, are based on something else. They grow out of the commandment to “Honor your father and mother” (Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16). Paul observes that this is the first of the ten commandments to include a promise. Family was a biblical institution grounded in Creation. Slavery was not. Yet followers of Jesus in Paul’s day were called to live Christianly within both. This does not mean they were obligated to accept either institution’s “bad, corrupt, and wicked” elements as part of God’s will. Elsewhere, Paul advises slaves to gain their freedom if they can (1 Cor. 7:21). He says that those who submit should take comfort in knowing that God sees their obedience as something rendered to Him. Those who expect obedience must keep in mind that they will one day answer to God. >> While our own experience may not fit this passage exactly, we all have people to whom we must submit. How can we do this in a way that will bring glory to Christ?
In a culture that prizes independence, submission is not a popular idea. Many modern readers bristle when they come to Ephesians 5:22, where Paul says wives should submit to their husbands. However, the command to submit is not just for wives. In this section of his letter, the apostle speaks of submission as a universal obligation and as an expression of reverence for Christ (v. 21). These guidelines are sometimes referred to as the Haustafel, a German word that means “household order.” The command of verse 21 serves as a heading for this section of this letter, which runs through Ephesians 6:9. Here Paul describes the roles of wives, husbands, children, fathers, enslaved people, and masters. Paul’s goal was to help his readers live Christianly within a social structure of his day. John Stott points out that Paul’s directives assume the dignity of womanhood, childhood, servanthood, and equality before God of all human beings. The apostle describes differences in the roles of husbands and wives, using Christ and the church as a pattern. The guiding principle is the rule of love. He commands husbands to love their wives “just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (v. 25). Wives, in turn, respond to this love with voluntary submission. In its proper context, the call for wives to “submit to their husbands in everything” is not demeaning. Husbands are to act as servants to their wives in the same way that Jesus served the church (vv. 28–29). Rather than ascribing a difference in status between husbands and wives, Paul emphasizes mutuality. Both are dependent upon each other. Each serves the other. Husband and wife are equal in the eyes of Christ (1 Cor. 11:8–12). >> Jesus said, “The student is not above the teacher, nor a servant above his master” (Matt. 10:24). If He was not ashamed to take the role of a servant, we should not be reluctant to submit to one another in love.
According to Tertullian, the North African theologian who lived around 160–220 AD, the early church was known for its love. Paul says the same in today’s passage, where he gives several characteristics of those who follow God’s example as dearly loved children (v. 1). Above all else, Christians are known by their love, as we imitate Christ’s sacrificial life (v. 2). In verses 3–20, Paul spells out what this lifestyle should look like in greater detail. It is a life of moral purity. Those who belong to Christ should refrain from sexual immorality or any kind of impurity, not “even a hint” (v. 3). Not only are immoral acts to be shunned but also the thoughts and desires that fuel them. Followers of Christ must turn from greed. Greed is a particular mode of the more general sin of covetousness, a desire for anything that belongs to another (see Ex. 20:17; Deut. 5:21). Christian purity is reflected in our words as well as deeds. Instead of vulgar language and coarse joking, Christian speech should be marked by thanksgiving (v. 4). Followers of Christ should encourage one another to express themselves in worship (vv. 19–20). The apostle called the Ephesians to make a clear break from their former way of life because it is incompatible with the values of the kingdom of Christ (vv. 5–7). Their calling was not only to know the light but to be light (vv. 8–14). Living such a life does not come automatically. It requires both wisdom and power. The wisdom comes from understanding the Lord’s will (v. 17). The power to live a new life comes from the transforming work of the Holy Spirit (v. 18). >> Are you careful in the way you live? Pay attention, so that you do not slip into old ways of thinking, speaking, and acting that are unworthy of those who profess to belong to Jesus Christ.
Followers of Jesus were not always called Christians. The term Christian first appeared in Antioch (Acts 11:26). It is a Latinized form of the word Christ that indicates allegiance and suggests that it arose among the Gentiles. It may originally have been an insult (1 Peter 4:16). Before Jesus’ followers were called Christians, they were called “the Way” (Acts 9:2; 19:9, 23; 24:22). Why were followers of Christ called “the Way”? In Ephesians 4:20, Paul explains that Christianity is more than a set of doctrines. It is also a “way of life” that we must learn. Following Jesus begins with a change of thinking (vv. 17–19). Instead of following the pointless way of thinking of our former life, we are to “put off” the old self and “put on the new self” (vv. 22–24). What Paul describes requires more than adopting a new set of morals. The Christian life demands that we become new people. As verse 23 puts it, the Christian way is a path of renewal in which we are continuously being remade in the image of Christ. Our impulse to sin does not suddenly disappear when we trust in Christ. Nor do we automatically get along with everyone because we belong to Christ. Christians can still behave sinfully and selfishly. Consequently, verses 25–32 call those who follow the way to act out of the new self as they interact with their neighbors. Some of the directives Paul gives may surprise us: stop lying to one another, stop stealing, and get rid of bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, and every form of malice. Christianity is not for the perfect but for those who are being perfected. The power to change comes from God through Christ. Our part is to cooperate with the work that God has begun. >> An old song says, “God’s still workin’ on me.” Where is God working in your life? Today, think about what you need to put off or away and what you need to put on.
In his beloved hymn, “Amazing Grace,” John Newton celebrates how God “saved a wretch like me.” The apostle Paul would have agreed. He said of himself, “For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God” (1 Cor. 15:9). Yet in the very next verse, Paul asserts, “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect” (15:10). When Paul urged the Ephesians in verse 1 to live a life “worthy” of their calling, he was not contradicting himself. The worthiness he speaks of is not based on what we deserve but on what God has promised to do in us through Christ. The striking feature of the lifestyle he describes in verses 2–3 is that, instead of being a list of tasks, it is a catalog of character traits. A life worthy of the gospel is one in which God lives up to the promise of power described in the preceding chapter (see also Eph. 3:16–19). We live that power out in daily experience. Christ has made this possible for us by joining believers to one another through the Holy Spirit in the community (or “body”) that we call the church (vv. 4–6). He has also empowered individuals through His Spirit to strengthen the church through ministry. In other spiritual gift lists, Paul describes abilities or the power to perform tasks given to individuals, but in verses 11–13, the apostles, prophets, evangelists, and pastors are themselves the gift. The last category Paul mentions in this list seems to be a combination of two abilities: shepherding and teaching. >> Take time to pray for those who preach or teach in your church. Write a note or send them a text to tell them how they have helped you. If you are able, describe a specific instance where God used their message.
William Willimon once observed, “We preachers so want to be heard that we are willing to make the gospel more accessible than it really is, to remove the scandal, the offense of the cross, to deceive people into thinking that it is possible to hear without conversion.” The truth revealed in the gospel is more than a matter of common sense. In this chapter, the apostle Paul describes it as a revelation that comes from God. Instead of using clever arguments to persuade his audience, Paul adopts a more radical strategy. He prays for them. Growing in our understanding of Christ is not simply a matter of collecting facts or articulating doctrinal positions. Paul prays that his audience will experience the power of the Holy Spirit in their “inner being” so that Christ will dwell in their hearts through faith (vv. 16–17). In other words, the starting place for understanding Christ is a relationship with Christ, facilitated through the Holy Spirit. Those who come to know Jesus do not earn Christ’s love. They are rooted in love like a tree is rooted in the soil. Their Christian life is built upon the foundation of knowing that Jesus Christ already loves them. Those who have this foundation can explore the full scope of His love. It is something they “grasp” but whose limits they will never exhaust. In verses 16 and 18, Paul clearly states that the power to grasp what Christ has done comes from God. He emphasizes the agent of this power (the Holy Spirit), the place where we experience it (the inner being), and its effect (the ability to grasp Christ’s love). The doxology in verses 20–21 celebrates God’s ability to do more than we ask or imagine. >> The power that Paul describes is the power at work in you today. In what area of life do you need to experience Christ’s power through the Holy Spirit?
I was nervous when I first told my mother I wanted to attend school to learn how to become a pastor. We were not a church-going family. But instead of being disappointed by the news, she was thrilled. “Oh, Johnny!” she beamed. “You would make a darling minister.” Darling is not the word Paul uses in Ephesians 3. In verse 7 he refers to himself as a “servant.” Although the Greek term Paul uses is one that is sometimes translated as “minister,” Paul seems to be using its more common sense, meaning someone who works or serves. Specifically, Paul sees himself as a servant of the gospel. In verse 2, Paul describes his ministry as an “administration of God’s grace.” The Greek word translated “administration” was often used to speak of a household manager or steward. Paul exercised a stewardship of grace by preaching the gospel. By making Christ known, he became an agent of grace to those who received his message. Paul was also a recipient of divine revelation. Specifically, this revelation was the news that “through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus” (v. 6). This was new information (v. 9). It had been hinted at in God’s promise that all the nations would be blessed through Abraham (Gen. 18:18). The new thing described in these verses is the church, through which, Paul also says, “the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms” (v. 10). What is the nature of this wisdom? It is that in Christ and through faith in Christ, “we may approach God with freedom and confidence” (v. 12). >> This confidence is the reason Paul does not want his readers to be discouraged about his imprisonment. He is more than willing to suffer so they would know the freedom and assurance that comes through the gospel.
In Paul’s day, non-Jews who visited the Temple of Jerusalem were confined to the outermost section known as the Court of the Gentiles. A fence separated the Court of the Gentiles from the inner courts. A warning on it read: “No man of another race is to enter within the fence and enclosure around the Temple. Whoever is caught will have only himself to thank for the death which follows.” Paul seems to be alluding to this boundary in verse 14 when he says that Jesus “has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.” It was not only ethnic prejudice that kept Gentiles from entering but also the barrier of God’s law. Yet even those who had received the law needed to be reconciled to God (v. 16). The spiritual wall not only set Jews apart from Gentiles but ultimately separated everyone from God. Although the physical wall was still standing when the apostle wrote these words, the spiritual wall had been torn down by the death of Christ on the cross. By “setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations,” Jesus reconciled both groups to God. This made peace possible between Jews and Gentiles (v. 15). Because of what Christ has done, “both have access to the Father by one Spirit” (v. 18). The result is “one new humanity out of the two” where the distinctions between Jew and Gentile are no longer meaningful (v. 15). For the Ephesians, this meant that they were no longer outsiders to God’s promises. Through faith, they have been drawn into God’s great building project. This new structure is “a holy temple” with the teaching of the apostles and prophets as its foundation and Jesus Christ as its cornerstone (vv. 20–21). >> If you trust in Jesus Christ as your righteousness, you are inside the wall too! You are included in the promise of verse 22. If you do not trust in Him, the boundary still stands. Put your faith in Jesus today!
Ads and commercials for diet supplements and exercise equipment sometimes include “before” and “after” pictures of those who use the product. A famous ad from the 1920s for the training regimen developed by bodybuilder Charles Atlas boasted that it had enabled him to go from being a 97-pound weakling to “the world’s most perfectly developed person.” Paul paints an even more striking before-and-after picture of his readers in Ephesians 2:1–13. The “before” describes sinners as spiritually dead, but that does not mean they aren’t active. They follow “the ruler of the kingdom of the air” (v. 2). This is Satan, who led humanity into sin. Satan is not a metaphor but an evil spiritual being with other evil spirits who serve him. Satan is a fallen angel (Luke 10:18). He was the first to tempt humanity, but he is not the only source of temptation we face. Because Adam sinned, we are both guilty of and inclined to sin. Everyone who is tempted is “dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed” (James 1:14). This sin problem affects “all of us” because we are sinners “by nature” who are “deserving of wrath” (v. 3). Yet Paul’s main point is not the sin of his readers but the radical change outlined in verses 4–6. This change was not brought about by personal willpower or a training regimen of spiritual exercises, but by God who was motivated by love and mercy. We are changed from spiritual death to life in Christ (v. 5). The fact that those who experienced this change were dead in sin makes it clear that the change did not come through their own efforts but had its origin in the grace of God. This is God’s handiwork. >> God’s gracious work produced a new community that joined Gentiles and Jewish believers in Christ. Both are united by “the blood of Christ” to form the new community we know as the church.
When I was a boy, I occasionally wrote letters to my grandmother who lived in another state. They were handwritten, brief, and usually began the same way: “How are you? I am fine.” Letter writing in Paul’s day also had an opening formula that generally included a greeting to identify the letter’s recipient and a blessing. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, this blessing takes the form of a prayer for spiritual enlightenment (vv. 17–18). This was not a prayer for salvation. Paul’s readers already possessed faith in Jesus Christ and a love for God’s people (v. 15). Instead, Paul prayed that the Ephesians would grow in their understanding. Specifically, he asked God to grant his readers enlightenment, using the vivid image of a heart with eyes wide open (v. 18). This kind of understanding is the work of the Holy Spirit, whom the apostle calls “the Spirit of wisdom and revelation” (v. 17). The kind of understanding Paul requests goes beyond mere intellectual knowledge of certain truths. This kind of knowledge is experiential as well as intellectual. It is an understanding of a hope and a power that come from God (vv. 18–19). How much power are we talking about? According to verse 20 it is the same power that the Father exerted when He raised Jesus Christ from the dead! The spiritual power that is granted to us in the Christian life is enough to subdue all things to Christ (v. 22). We can’t help noticing the contrast between Paul’s circumstances and the kind of power he describes. Given his arrest and confinement, we might have expected the apostle to see himself as a victim. Instead, Paul describes total victory. >> You may not be able to grasp everything there is to know about Jesus Christ. But you can understand more. As we continue our study, ask God to open the eyes of your heart so you can know and experience the power of Christ.
People sometimes use the phrase “reality check” to mean recognizing the circumstances that hinder us from achieving an ambition or reaching a goal. But the reality check Paul describes in his letter to the Ephesians is different. The apostle writes about the true position of those who have trusted in Christ. Their reality is security and hope. If you consider the situation Paul was in, the apostle’s confident tone is especially striking. Although a prisoner, Paul’s did not describe his situation as the four walls holding him captive but as someone who had been blessed “in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (v. 3). Paul was much more than a prisoner. He was someone who had been chosen in Christ “before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless” (v. 4). He had been drawn into God’s plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. This plan, which originated with God in eternity past, when finished, will “bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth” (v. 10). The terms “chosen” and “predestined” (v. 11) have been the focus of much discussion and disagreement among Christians. While the issues that surround the Bible’s teaching about election and predestination may seem complex, Paul’s main point (vv. 11–14) is fairly simple. It was God who saved us by uniting us to Jesus Christ through the promises of the gospel. The proof that we have been included in Christ is the presence of the Holy Spirit who is “a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession” (v. 14). >> Whatever circumstances you find yourself in today, your future is secure if you are in Christ. Security depends not on your situation but on God, who is bringing about your redemption. His plan has been unfolding since eternity past. Jesus is at its center, holiness is its aim, and praise will be the outcome.
When Martin Luther King Jr. penned his Letter From a Birmingham City Jail in April 1963, he joined a long tradition of Christians who wrote letters and books while in jail, including John Bunyan, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and most notably, the apostle Paul. This month we will be studying Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, all letters the apostle wrote as a prisoner in Rome. At that time, people were sent to prison not as punishment, but to await trial and possible execution. When Paul wrote these letters, he was most likely serving a two-year “house arrest” (Acts 28:30). This meant he was able to live in a rented residence, though in chains and guarded. This was not Paul’s first arrest. Imprisonment was so much a part of Paul’s Christian experience that he included it on his resume. In 2 Corinthians 11:5 he began his defense by claiming that he was not inferior to those whom others may view as “super-apostles” or perhaps better translated as “eminent” or “chief apostles.” To support this assertion, Paul reluctantly listed some of his accomplishments (vv. 22–29), including his frequent imprisonment. We tend to look at a church’s size and budget as evidence of God at work. The apostle Paul recognized that God works through weakness. For this reason, Paul wrote, “If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness” (v. 30). You may be surprised to find that the letters we will be studying this month are some of Paul’s most joyful. Yet Paul wrote them while under house arrest in Rome. Instead of curtailing his ministry, this imprisonment allowed Paul to articulate some of the deepest theology in the New Testament. >> What appears to us to be a setback is often an open door. We do not need a large platform to make an impact on those around us. As we make ourselves available, God will work through us even in the most confining circumstances.
As a child in Sunday School and Good News Club, I sang: “The B-I-B-L-E, Yes that’s the book for me. I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-I-B-L-E!” Often it was my mother leading the song. She had a passion for teaching the Bible to the next generation. The end of the Book of Revelation tells us that the Bible is complete (vv. 18–19). We’re strictly warned not to add to it or take away from it. Technically, these verses refer to the Book of Revelation, but due to its placement as the last book in the canon, tradition often reads them as referring to Scripture as a whole. The Bible is complete in the sense that there will be no more Holy Spirit- inspired books added. This doesn’t mean God is silent. He speaks to us today through His Word, as well as through prayer and the Holy Spirit. Submitting to Scripture is a key mark of the true church. As we follow Christ through the ups and downs of our lives, we wait eagerly for His Second Coming. This is the heart behind the prayer “Maranatha,” or “Come, Lord Jesus” (v. 20). He is “the Root and the Offspring of David,” a Messianic title indicating kingship (v. 16; see Isa. 11:1–10). He’s also the “bright Morning Star,” an image signifying hope, light, and salvation (see Num. 24:17; 2 Peter 1:19). He invites all who will come to eternal life with Him. All those who are thirsty can “take the free gift of the water of life” (v. 17; see John 4:13–14). This is the gospel of Christ! >> Who do you know who needs to hear and believe in Jesus for salvation? Maybe you could gift them with a Bible or invite them to attend church or to study Today in the Word with you. Ask the Lord for an opportunity to share the gospel with them!
Books and movies often try to visualize the end of the world. Nuclear weapons are launched and destroy the planet. An epidemic wipes out life on Earth. Robots and artificial intelligence take over. People become virtual reality addicts. Zombies prowl. Space aliens conquer humanity. As fascinating as these scenarios are, there’s little hope to be found there. Today’s reading demonstrates how Christians see the end of the world—and it’s a Person! Jesus Christ, the First and the Last, the Alpha and the Omega (v. 17; see Rev. 19:11–16). When John saw Him in a vision, he fell at His feet in worship. Christ appeared as “someone like a son of man” (v. 13), a Messianic title from Daniel 7:13–14. His robe and golden sash identify Him as a priest or possibly a judge. His white hair indicates wisdom and dignity (v. 14). His “blazing” eyes see everything accurately, denoting both omni- science and justice. His “glowing” feet imply strength and stability; they will trample on His enemies (v. 15). His voice like “rushing waters” also suggests power (see Ezek. 1:24). The seven stars in His right hand are the angels of the seven churches (vv. 16, 20). The double-edged sword coming from His mouth symbolizes His word of judgment, and His shining face — His glory. The titles Christ announces in verse 17 are highly significant. “The First and the Last” shows not only that He’s eternal but that He’s also supreme over all. The “Living One” has conquered death and thereby guaranteed our resurrection. He holds “the keys of death and Hades,” meaning that He is in sovereign control of the eternal destiny of every one of us. These descriptions and titles set the stage for the letters to the seven churches, in which pertinent titles will reoccur in messages to specific churches. >> One way to pray in a fresh and meaningful manner is to use the alphabet. From A to Z, name an attribute of God and praise Him for it (Hint: A=Almighty, or Awesome).
In Cultivating a Love for God’s Word, Michael Kelley wrote: “Our hearts follow our investments. We desire that men, women, and children not just read the Bible, but also that they love the Bible. The problem is that you can’t manufacture love even in your own heart, much less in the hearts of the people of your church. That’s why this truth is so valuable because even though you can’t manufacture love, you can control your focus and priority. And our hearts will follow our investments.” In other words, if we want to grow a deeper love for Scripture, we should start by committing more time and energy to it. Our feelings and motivations will follow. The result? Genuine delight. A person who delights in God’s law meditates continually on it, seeks guidance from it, and obeys it consistently (vv. 1–2). Such a person is truly blessed, or happy. The righteous person is like a fruitful tree, deeply rooted and well-watered. Connected to the Source of life, it never withers (vv. 3–4). “Planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God” (Ps. 92:12–15). “It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (Jer. 17:8). Fruit means benefits to both self and others. The wicked person, on the other hand, is like chaff blown away by the wind, unstable and useless. The results of these two paths of life are predictable (vv. 5–6). The wicked person won’t be able to stand before God on the day of judgment. Such a person will be destroyed. And the righteous person? God will faithfully watch over them all the days of their life. >> A flourishing tree is a powerful image of the grounded Christian life. If you feel inspired, consider drawing or painting a picture or writing a poem or song about this word picture as an artistic act of worship.
Jesus told a parable about a man who built his house on a foundation of rock. A storm came, but the house stood firm. Another man built his house on a foundation of sand. When a storm came, the house collapsed. The first house is a picture of a wise man who “hears these words of mine and puts them into practice.” The second is a picture of a foolish man who hears the words but fails to put them into practice (Matt. 7:24–27). While Bible reading and study are essential, they’re not enough. They must be accompanied by obedience (v. 7). The Israelites (for the second time) stood on the verge of entering the promised land. Joshua faced his first big leadership test. One may think the emphasis would be on preparing the nation for battle. Instead, the Lord stressed, “Be careful to obey.” Stay on the path—don’t turn aside to the right or to the left. In covenant terms, obedience leads to success. This is what they’d failed to do in the previous generation. To promote obedience, God also commanded Joshua to saturate his mind and heart with Scripture: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night” (v. 8). “On your lips” includes reading aloud and reciting. Whereas Eastern meditation often focuses on emptying the mind, godly meditation fills the mind with God’s Word. The exhortation is to “[b]e strong and courageous” (vv. 7, 9). “Strength” here is not a military one; it means to “hold on firmly.” We must believe that God will do what He said He will do. Such faith is strong and courageous, not fearful and discouraged, because we’re relying on God, not ourselves. “The LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” >> The words “courage,” “discourage,” and “encourage” are all connected. How can we best encourage fellow believers or help them take courage? By reminding them that God never leaves us nor forsakes us (Josh. 1:5).
In most sports, a rule book is necessary to control and shape the game. Team members, from the coach to the player on the sideline, are expected not only to be familiar with the book but also to abide by these rules. When a player violates rules, a penalty hurts the entire team. In his letter to the Colossians, Paul exhorted them (and us) to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (v. 15). The imperative “let” reminds us that this is not something for us to do, but something to allow God to do. The “peace of Christ” is another name for the gospel (Rom. 5:1). Just as an umpire or referee controls the game by enforcing the rule book, everything we think, feel, say, and do should be governed by the gospel, both individually and collectively. Why? Because “as members of one body [we] were called to peace.” Second, the apostle exhorted us to “let the message of Christ dwell among you richly” (v. 16). The “message of Christ” is ultimately the Word of God. To “dwell” is to live or make a home with. How can we let the Word make a home within us? By teaching and admonishing “one another...through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.” Third, Paul exhorted us to “do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (v. 17). This means that in everything we do we should seek God’s glory (see also 1 Cor. 10:31). The fourth and final exhortation of the passage is found in every verse: “Be thankful” (v. 15). “With gratitude in your hearts” (v. 16). “Giving thanks to God the Father” (v. 17). If we live like this, we’ll truly show that we’ve been made alive in Christ (Col. 3:1–14). >> If you are on God’s team, you need to familiarize yourself with His “rule book,” our guide, the Bible. How can you be an effective servant of the Lord if you don’t know what the Bible says?
Have you ever seen a Peanuts television special? While Charlie Brown, Sally, Linus, Lucy, and the other kids speak clearly, the adult voices are limited to a trombone-like “wa-wa- wa.” Every word of the parents and teachers sounds like nonsense. Tragically, this is how the Israelites in today’s reading mocked the prophet Isaiah and his word from the Lord. Possibly drunk (v. 7), they said the prophet’s words sounded like nonsense, “wa-wa-wa” (vv. 9–10; see also Isa. 30:9–11). To whom did the prophet think he was speaking? Babies? The line translated “a rule for this, a rule for that” is probably, according to the NIV footnote, “meaningless sounds mimicking the prophet’s words.” Another source compares it to childish babbling or baby talk, thus connecting it to verse 9. Since the people of Israel wouldn’t listen, scorning the prophet’s warning as meaningless, God would speak to them in a foreign language, words they wouldn’t understand (v. 11). This is a reference to the coming Assyrian conquest. God had once said to Israel, “This is the resting place, let the weary rest” and “This is the place of repose” (v. 12). This reference evokes the nation’s past failure. At the border of Canaan, they had refused to trust God. Both at that time and in Isaiah’s day, God intended blessings for His people, but instead Israel incurred His judgment because of their disobedience. The word of the Lord would mock them in the same way they’d mocked Him (v. 13; see also Ps. 81:11–12). The result? They would fall. “They will be injured and snared and captured.” Pridefully, they thought their status as the “people of God” protected them, but they didn’t listen to God—a failure on their part. God had told them many times the consequences of their covenant unfaithfulness. >> When confronted with the truth of God’s Word, what is your attitude? No, really. How do you feel about it? Troubled? Guilty? Indifferent? Reflect on these questions in your journal or pray about this today.
When my family and I drive around the Great Lakes of the Midwestern U.S., we keep an eye for the picturesque lighthouses along the shores. These historic structures are not just for beauty, of course; they warn boats away from dangerous parts of the coastline. God’s Word acts as a kind of lighthouse, warning us to avoid sinful traps and temptations. In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul points to Israel’s history, warning not to set “our hearts on evil things as they did” (v. 6). These sins of idolatry, immorality, testing the Lord, and grumbling, “happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us” (v. 11; see also Rom. 15:4). The people of Israel enjoyed God’s visible presence: ”under the cloud” refers to the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. They witnessed the ten plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision of water and manna. Spiritually, they had everything they needed. Yet an entire generation failed to enter the promised land and instead died in the wilderness. Why? Israel chose sin instead of obedience (vv. 6–9). They committed idolatry, as in the golden calf episode (Ex. 32). They were guilty of sexual immorality (Numbers 25). They tested the Lord (Numbers 21). They complained against Moses and Aaron (Numbers 16). They were severely punished in each of these episodes, but they didn’t change their ways. We should learn from their experience (vv. 11–13). We, too, might make sinful choices. Instead, we should resist temptation, relying on God’s faithfulness. “He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear...he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” >> Do we take sin as seriously as God does? If it’s idolatry or immorality, probably yes. But what about grumbling or complaining? Let’s commit to not taking any sin lightly. Take time to confess your sins to God today.
Arthur Rorheim has helped millions of children memorize Scripture. Arthur was better known by his nickname, “Mr. Awana.” He co-founded Awana in 1950, and led the Bible-teaching organization for decades. “Awana” is an acronym meaning “Approved workmen are not ashamed,” a reference to 2 Timothy 2:15. The organization now operates in 100 countries and 30 languages! Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, is devoted to putting God’s Word at the center of our lives. We’re considering its second section today. The question of verse 9—”How can a young person stay on the path of purity?”—signals that this is “wisdom literature,” which is often concerned with young people or the next generation. The answer, “By living according to your word,” is the bottom line, an answer that is elaborated in the following verses. The verbs alone teach remarkable lessons. What are we to do with God’s Word? Live according to it (v. 9). Ask God to keep us from straying from it (v. 10). Memorize it (v. 11). Ask God to teach it to us (v. 12). Recount or proclaim it (v. 13). Rejoice in following it (v. 14). Meditate on and consider or study it (v. 15). Delight in it (v. 16). These verbs involve both intellect and emotion, thought and action. What happens when we do these things? We stay on the path of purity (v. 9). We avoid sin (v. 11). Overall, a spirit of praise and worship permeates these verses! To “hide” or “store up” or “treasure” (these are all possible translations) God’s Word in our hearts is to memorize it (v. 11). This is not “rote memorization,” but rather deep and transformative learning. By committing God’s Word to memory, truly taking it to heart, we promote the process of understanding, valuing, and applying His truth. >> Even if you’re older, it is not too late to memorize the Bible. It’s an essential spiritual habit or discipline. Start small by memorizing today’s verse or (if you’re feeling ambitious) the entire eight-verse passage.
On a wall in our family room hangs a plaque with 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” As my wife and I prepared to return to the U.S. from Vietnam, where we served for many years, a good friend of ours, a Vietnamese pastor and church planter, gave us this plaque as a farewell present. It holds a special place of honor in our home. This plaque symbolizes our desire to put God’s Word at the center of family life. In Deuteronomy 6, we learn two significant truths. The first is that God is one (v. 4, called the “Shema”). As opposed to those in the ancient Near East who worshiped many gods, Christians worship only one true God. He alone is worthy of our worship. The second truth is also known as the greatest commandment: We are to love God “with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (v. 5). Such love includes wholehearted faith and uncompromising obedience. How can we live out these two truths? They should be on our hearts and thoughts. We should reflect or meditate on them in our inmost beings (v. 6). We should talk about them often, during all kinds of situations and activities, especially in our homes and with our children (v. 7). These truths and God’s commandments in general should be at the heart of our personal and family lives (vv. 8–9; see also Prov. 3:3). Many Jews take the imagery of verses 8 and 9 literally. They tie phylacteries to their foreheads and left arms and attach mezuzot to the doorframes of their houses. Phylacteries and mezuzot are small boxes with specific Scripture passages inside—including today’s reading. >> How do you keep God and His Word at the center of your life? Do you post Bible verses in places as reminders? Some people hang plaques, others use screen savers. Today there are many ways you can keep God and His Word at the forefront of your mind.
Whenever I can, I visit the world-famous Newberry Library in Chicago, a research library known for its collection of rare manuscripts. I’ll never forget a 2017 exhibition in which I viewed a copy of the very first Bible published in the Americas. It was not in English or any European language, but in a language spoken by Native American tribes. Called the Algonquian Bible, it was translated by Native American converts led by Puritan missionary pastor John Eliot. Down through the ages, God has preserved and spread His Word. This includes the Holy Spirit’s ministry of illumination. Jesus put it this way: The Holy Spirit “will guide you into all the truth” (v. 13). Jesus would send the Holy Spirit—also called the “Advocate,” the “Helper,” or the “Spirit of truth”— to believers after His ascension or return to heaven (v. 7). The Spirit would work on behalf of Christ and the gospel by, for example, convicting people of sin (vv. 8–11). People need to see themselves as sinners to know they need a Savior. Just as Jesus did only the will of the Father, the Spirit will speak only God’s words (v. 13) and give only what Christ gives Him (vv. 14–15). The Holy Spirit would help the disciples recall the words and actions of Jesus so they could perfectly record them in the Gospels. He would also help them write the other books of the New Testament, including “what is yet to come” (Revelation). In addition, the Spirit helps believers interpret and live out Scripture by opening our spiritual eyes. Illumination, then, is a work of the Holy Spirit which enables us to understand, interpret, and apply God’s Word. As we saw yesterday, there’s a dual responsibility in Bible study: God works and we work. >> Praying for the Spirit to open your eyes and heart should be a regular part of your Bible study and daily devotions. After all, asking for the Author’s help in reading His Book makes perfect sense!
A recent survey reported that 26 million Americans mostly or completely stopped reading the Bible during COVID. “Currently, only 10 percent of Americans report daily Bible reading.” Don’t let these grim statistics discourage you! Instead, resolve today to make it a priority to read and study God’s Word. In Acts 17, we meet a group of Christians known for their devoted study of God’s Word. This chapter takes place during Paul’s second missionary journey. After some trouble with jealous Jews and city officials, the believers in Thessalonica helped Paul and Silas slip away by night to Berea, a city about 50 miles away. As was their custom, they went to the local synagogue and found the Jews there to be of “more noble character.” Why? They were eager to study the Old Testament to see if the gospel message was true (v. 11). In fact, the Bereans “examined the Scriptures every day” and found that Christ was the fulfillment of the Old Testament. As a result, many Jews believed and many Greeks as well (v. 12; see also Rom. 1:16). To study God’s Word is in one sense a work of God. We must be illumined by the Holy Spirit. But at the same time, it’s a skill we grow in. As Paul wrote elsewhere to Timothy: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). The Thessalonian Jews traveled to Berea to make more trouble for the apostle and the gospel (vv. 13– 15). Since Paul was the main target, the Bereans sent him away to the city of Athens. >> Are you known as someone committed to the study of God’s Word? If you are, ask God to help you continue this practice. If you are not, consider how you can become more faithful in reading God’s Word. How can you become a better student of the Word?
Doreen Virtue was a best-selling author, who spent 20 years teaching New Age methods. But it was an encounter with God’s Word that transformed her life. “Reading the entire Bible changed everything,” Doreen said. “When I got to Deuteronomy 18:10–12, I encountered a list of sinful activities that included several I was practicing. I was broken, deeply shamed, and humbled. I dropped to my knees in shame and sorrow. ‘I’m so sorry, God!’ I kept wailing in repentance. ‘I didn’t know!’ On that very day I gave my life to Jesus as Lord and Savior.” God’s Word has the power to call people directly to salvation. In Acts 8, the Lord sent Philip, one of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6, to a roadside rendezvous with a eunuch who was the royal treasurer to the queen of Ethiopia. On his way home from Jerusalem, the eunuch was sitting in his chariot reading aloud from the book of Isaiah (v. 28). Philip approached him and asked if he understood what he was reading. When the eunuch admitted he didn’t know who the prophet was talking about, Philip did a Bible study with him, starting with Isaiah 53 (the passage in question) and shared the gospel (vv. 30–35). No doubt the eunuch had heard while in Jerusalem about the recent crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Rather dramatically, the eunuch immediately believed in the name of Christ and requested to be baptized (vv. 36–38). The Holy Spirit had clearly been working in this man’s heart. The Messianic prophecy of Isaiah 53 was on his mind. God also used an obedient, prepared Philip to explain the Word and help it all come together. The eunuch felt a clear call to saving faith and responded with joyful obedience (see Isa. 56:3–8). >> Have you made the same choice as the Ethiopian eunuch? Going to church isn’t enough. Reading the Bible isn’t enough. We urge you to trust in Christ for salvation today!
I have been involved with the ministry of Today in the Word as an editor or writer almost continuously since 1993. That’s 30 years! These have been years of blessing, challenge, and transformation, as God’s Word has made and remade who I am. Even after all this time, I remain excited for each new study! God’s Word can do the same for you. Psalms 111 and 112 are a matched pair. They both follow an acrostic pattern. The first focuses on God; the second focuses on godly people, that is, people who “fear the Lord.” Godly people “find great delight in his commands” (v. 1). In other words, the Word of God instructs and empowers them in the way of godliness. This way includes righteousness or uprightness (vv. 2, 3, 4, 6, 9), grace and compassion (v. 4), generosity and justice (vv. 5, 9), and steadfast faith (vv. 6, 7, 8). There is a particular emphasis on generosity to the poor (vv. 4, 5, 9; see also 2 Cor. 9:6–15). Having received blessings, we want to bless others. As we walk in God’s way, we’re richly blessed, for example, with children (v. 2). The Lord might also bless us with material wealth (v. 3). Good things seem to happen for God’s people even in bad times (vv. 4–5). They stand firm in their convictions and are remembered with honor after they’re gone (vv. 6, 9). They’re not anxious when bad news or dark times come (v. 7). Instead, their faith in the Lord removes fear, makes them spiritually secure, and gives them victory over their enemies (v. 8). The psalm doesn’t say our life will be all sunshine and roses, but rather that, because the fear of the Lord is the center of the godly person’s life, He will bless them with Himself. >> One way you can bless others as you’ve been blessed is to pass on Today in the Word to a friend. That could be via the print version, radio, website, email, or the app.
When we move into a new house, my family and I pray through it room-by-room. We dedicate each room to the Lord, ask that we would be conscious of His presence, and invite Him to guard and provide for us. We want to remember that this is ultimately God’s house, not ours. The Word of God and prayer consecrate. The word “consecrate” means “to declare something to be holy” or “to set apart something as sacred” or “to commit something to divine purposes.” Everything God created is good even though sin can corrupt, or we can mishandle His good gifts (vv. 4–5). The Word of God and prayer are thus our best tools for receiving God’s blessings in the ways He intended. They help us make holy or dedicate to godly purposes things that we might otherwise misuse or abuse. The context for this principle is false teaching that said otherwise (vv. 1–3). Paul argued that false teaching ultimately comes from the demonic realm (see also Eph. 6:12). The false teachers he had in mind promoted forms of legalism on topics such as marriage and food. Since they were “hypocritical liars,” they didn’t even live consistently with their own teachings. They were probably gnostics—people who believed that the material world is evil. What’s wrong with that? God created the material world and repeatedly pronounced it “good” (Genesis 1). Marriage and food are thus gifts to be “received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth” (v. 3). In other words, rejection is as bad as indulgence. Consecration via the Word of God and prayer ensures that we enjoy God’s gifts for His glory, not ours, and that we always value the Giver above the gifts. >> How can you consecrate your life to God? Some of us pray before meals—perhaps too routinely. Today, try to freshen up this practice and receive the gift of food with heartfelt gratitude and even an attitude of worship.
According to the United Nations, there are 103 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, whether inside or outside their home nations. A total of 32.5 million are classified as refugees, fleeing war or persecution. Of these, 72 percent come from the five countries of Syria, Venezuela, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and South Sudan. After decades of exile following the Babylonian conquest, the Jews were finally allowed to return home. In today’s passage, the public reading and teaching of the Scriptures kindled spiritual renewal among the returned exiles. The leaders, including Ezra and Nehemiah, showed the way (vv. 5–8). Preparations had been made: A day had been set, a reading platform built, and the Levites organized for teaching. When the Law was opened, the people stood as a sign of respect. When Ezra praised the Lord, they bowed facedown to the ground in worship. As they listened, they wept, showing—like King Josiah—godly sorrow and repentance. This This day, though, was a day for celebration not weeping (vv. 9–12). The people certainly had sins to repent of, and the broken remains of the city reminded them of past sins and God’s judgment. In Nehemiah 9, we read of their repentance. But that day, however, was a day for rejoicing. God had kept His promise and returned their people to the land after 70 years of exile! He commanded a real party (the Feast of Booths)— described as “holy to our Lord”—with food and drink and sharing for those who didn’t have enough. This is the context for the often-quoted verse, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (v. 10). Why were they joyful? “Because they now understood the words that had been made known to them” (v. 12). >> We often equate holiness with a somber mood, but the Bible speaks of “joy” in holiness! In our churches, we see this lived out through music and singing. In what other ways does holiness spark joy in us?
Did you know that reading books can help you live longer? A study done at Yale University found that those who read books “lived an average of almost two years longer than those who did not read at all.” They concluded: “People who report as little as a half hour a day of book reading had a significant survival advantage over those who did not read.” This being the case, we shouldn’t be surprised that reading God’s Word is even more life-giving—enough to revive an idolatrous nation in 2 Kings 22. We’re not sure how the Scriptures had gotten lost. We’re not even sure if what was lost was the entire Pentateuch or just part of Deuteronomy. But we do know that the rediscovery of God’s Word sparked a revival throughout Judah, led by King Josiah (v. 8; see 2 Kings 23). When he heard the lost Scriptures read aloud, the king responded with godly sorrow and repentance (vv. 11–13). He understood that the people had not kept the covenant and openly admitted the justice of God’s wrath at their disobedience. This response didn’t come out of nowhere. The spiritual ground had been prepared, as seen in the Temple renovations he’d ordered. In fact, the lost scrolls were found during that reconstruction process. In addition, Josiah had been raised and advised by righteous men such as Hilkiah the high priest. His heart was spiritually ready. The prophet Huldah offered both warning and comfort. Josiah hadn’t misunderstood: They’d indeed broken the covenant with their idolatry and unfaithfulness. Judgment would come, just as God’s Word promised (vv. 16–17). But due to the king’s humble response, she told him God would be merciful and it wouldn’t happen in his lifetime (vv. 19–20). >> Reading God’s Word can spark revival in us as well! Let God’s Word lead you to the regular spiritual habit of confession of sin. There’s no need to worry or feel ashamed, as God has already promised to forgive us (1 John 1:9).
A research study by Arizona Christian University found that only 37 percent of American pastors hold to a biblical worldview. Many do not hold biblical beliefs on issues such as salvation and human sexuality. For example, “at least a third of senior pastors in the United States believe one can earn a place in Heaven by simply being a good person.” A similar number see reincarnation as a real possibility. These pastors were found to spend little time in God’s Word. If we want to hold to sound doctrine, we must know the Bible. In today’s reading, the apostle Paul gave his friend and colleague Timothy, pastoring in Ephesus, a serious charge to “Preach the word” (vv. 1–2). God the Father and God the Son are called as witnesses to this charge. Timothy is to use the Word to correct, rebuke, and encourage. He should always be prepared “with great patience and careful instruction.” Great patience is required because most people don’t really want sound doctrine (vv. 3–4). Sometimes they won’t even tolerate it. Instead, they prefer to have their ears tickled. They follow false teachers who say what they want to hear (see 1 Kings 22:1 28). They turn away from the truth and toward lies and deceptions. Because of sin and Satan, people don’t naturally love truth. Even believers must cultivate love of truth as a godly habit. In the middle of this, we are to keep our heads (v. 5). This means we must stay awake, alert, calm, cool-headed, sober, clear-headed, and vigilant. Instead of being pushed or influenced in the wrong direction or seeking to please people or cater to their feelings, we’re to stand our ground on the Word and sound doctrine. Even if we endure hardship, which is inevitable, we’re to continue ministering and remain faithful. >> There is a lot of so-called Christian teaching readily available for us today. This calls for biblical discernment. Be sure to compare what you’re watching and hearing with Scripture so you can tell if it is truly from God.
In 2016, the American Bible Society celebrated its bicentennial—200 years of distributing Bibles around the world. Throughout its history, the organization has been committed to give away Bibles without notes or commentary, in the belief that anyone can read the Bible for themselves. God’s Word is the only offensive weapon in the armor of God. Metaphorically, this armor equips us for spiritual warfare (vv. 10 13). Each piece of the armor, including God’s Word, helps us stand against “the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” The goal is to stand firm—the final victory already belongs to Christ. Paul’s metaphor is quite colorful and vivid (vv. 14–17). Truth is a “belt” that holds together all the rest. Righteousness is a protective “breastplate” (see Isa. 59:17) and salvation is a protective “helmet.” The soldier’s shoes or boots are a readiness to stand on and proclaim the gospel of peace (Rom. 5:1). Faith is a “shield” that extinguishes the “flaming arrows” of Satan (see also 1 Peter 1:5). Finally, there is “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (see also Rev. 1:16). When we put on our spiritual armor and go forth to battle, we are imitating and accompanied by God Himself. He is pictured as a Divine Warrior a number of times in Scripture, such as in Isaiah 42:13: “The LORD will march out like a champion, like a warrior he will stir up his zeal; with a shout he will raise the battle cry and will triumph over his enemies.” What does it mean to “put on” this armor? Note that we don’t manufacture any of it—it’s all from God. He helps us choose to make it part of our spiritual lives. Putting it on, then, involves making choices, forming habits, and cultivating virtues. >> Jesus Himself used Scripture to resist when tempted by the devil (Matt. 4:1–11). We, too, should use God’s Word as the “sword of the Spirit,” an effective strategy in our fight against temptation.
The modern hymn “O Church Arise,” calls to us: “O church, arise, and put your armor on; / Hear the call of Christ our captain. / For now the weak can say that they are strong / In the strength that God has given.“ It continues, “And with the sword that makes the wounded whole, / We will fight with faith and valor.” The “sword that makes the wounded whole” is God’s Word. In today’s verses, we learn that the Word is “alive,” “active,” and extremely sharp (v. 12). “Alive” means full of life or life-giving, which makes sense since the Author is eternal and the source of all life. “Active” means dynamic as God’s Word works to accomplish His purposes. “Sharpness” is a complex metaphor. God’s Word is described as a “double-edged sword.” This type of sword was short, more like a dagger. One commentator even compares it to a razor-sharp butcher’s knife, which explains how it can divide “soul and spirit, joints and marrow.” It was an emblem of judges and magistrates in the Roman Empire and thus symbolized truth and justice as well. Its piercing or penetrating qualities suggest truth and accuracy; “it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” If God’s Word has ever brought you under conviction of sin, then you understand this metaphor very well. The Word of God is like God Himself: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (v. 13). As one study Bible observes: The writer “associates the activity of the [W]ord with the activity of God, as though they are one and the same—which in a sense they are.” >> Today’s verses are worth committing to memory. If you haven’t already done so, we suggest you spend the next few days memorizing these two important verses.
What is more important: what we say or what we do? As the saying goes, “Our lives are the only sermon some people will ever hear.” And we’ve all felt at times like the person who commented, “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one.” That point is also made in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. The truths and consequences of God’s Word should be seen in our lives. Paul said the Corinthians themselves were proof of his apostleship. No false teacher could have brought about such gospel-affirming and God-glorifying results. The Corinthian church was like a letter of recommendation. I write many such letters to assist my students in obtaining jobs or ministry positions or entrance to graduate school. In Paul’s day, itinerant teachers used these kinds of letters for identification or authentication, in much the same way that Paul used his own handwriting at the end of a letter so that the recipients could be sure it really came from him (Gal. 6:11). Paul didn’t need to bring reference letters to the Corinthians because he already had a close relationship with them. They themselves were the “letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone” (v. 2). They could testify from their own experience about his apostolic ministry and his unselfish pursuit of God’s glory, especially compared to other traveling teachers who solicited money much more forcefully. By contrast, Paul was satisfied to see their transformed lives and the fruit they were bearing for the kingdom of God. Best of all, the Corinthians were a “letter from Christ” Himself (v. 3; see also Deut. 6:1–9). The tablets (paper) were human hearts. The (eternal) ink was the Holy Spirit. May God do the same with our lives! >> Did you know that you are a “letter” to the world? Or to put it another way, what you believe and value is on display to your family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. What message are you sending?
Many people say they like and respect the Bible, but they don’t actually read it. More than half of respondents in a 2017 LifeWay survey said they had read little or none of it—at most, a few passages or stories. The good news is that 87 percent of Americans do have one or more Bibles in their homes. For God’s Word to bear fruit in our lives, we must not just own a copy, but read and study it regularly. Both Peter and Paul had read not only the Old Testament but also one another’s letters. Peter regarded Paul’s epistles as equivalent to the “other Scriptures” (v. 16). This suggests that the writers of the New Testament understood that the Holy Spirit was inspiring their writing. Alongside the Old Testament, it was also the Word of God— authoritative, true, and trustworthy. Jesus said the same about His own words (Matt. 24:35), and Peter the same about the eyewitness accounts of the apostles (see July 6). Peter was urging believers to “make every effort” to be found ready when Christ returns (v. 14). We should strive to live righteously and at peace with God. Instead of feeling impatient with the waiting, we should more deeply appreciate God’s patience (v. 15). He’s waiting for the full number to come to repentance and saving faith (2 Peter 3:9). Perhaps in case people had heard rumors of conflict (see Gal. 2:11–14), Peter assured his readers that he and Paul were in complete agreement about all this (v. 15). He credited Paul with God-given wisdom while also admitting that some things in his epistles are “hard to understand.” Even so, only “ignorant and unstable people” distort and misinterpret his teachings. They cannot win and will themselves reap destruction (v. 16). >> Consider your own commitment to knowing God’s Word. Have you read through the entire Bible? Do you make reading the Bible a regular practice? What steps can you take to help make this a healthy habit?
How can we talk about Jesus in the Old Testament? Which parts apply to Him? And how should we interpret some of the strange language and figures of speech? A very helpful reference is The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, edited by Moody professor Michael Rydelnik and Edwin Blum. This book analyzes every OT passage that is considered Messianic! The fulfillment of Messianic prophecies proves that Scripture is one unified story. This would only be possible if the Bible was inspired by the God who is sovereign over history. Today’s reading from the Crucifixion narrative provides two specific examples. First, the Roman soldiers who crucified Christ divided His clothes among themselves (vv. 23–24). The seamless undergarment, however, was too valuable to be torn, so they cast lots for it. Their actions fulfilled the prophecy of Psalm 22:18. Psalm 22 is the prayer of a righteous sufferer, written nearly one thousand years before Christ. This example shows that prophecy can be both thematic and specific. Thematically, Jesus is the perfect example of a righteous sufferer. He even quoted Psalm 22:1 while on the cross (Matt. 27:46). The details about casting lots for His garment cannot be accidental. Fulfilled prophecies like these strengthen our faith. Another example is Jesus’ words “I am thirsty” on the cross (vv. 28–30). They gave Him wine vinegar to drink, fulfilling Psalm 69:21 (see Ps. 22:15). Jesus said it, “so that Scripture would be fulfilled.” After receiving the drink, in total control of the situation, He said, “It is finished,” bowed His head, and gave up His spirit. Psalm 69 is also the prayer of a righteous sufferer. Psalms 69 and 22 are the most quoted psalms in the New Testament! Why not add both of these to today’s reading? >> Would you like to learn more about Messianic prophecy? We encourage you to invest in a good study Bible or get a copy of the Moody Handbook mentioned in today’s opening paragraph.
How does the Old Testament connect to the New Testament? In his famous sermon on the Day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter referred to prophecies by Joel and David (Acts 2). The Old Testament prophet Joel predicted the coming Day of the Lord, and Peter proclaimed that it had now arrived in the person of Christ. David believed God’s promise that one of his descendants would sit on his throne eternally. This too was fulfilled by Christ. Sadly, we too often think of the Old and New Testaments in opposite terms. We view the OT God as grim and wrathful; the NT God as loving and merciful. We see the OT as full of law; the NT as full of grace. Yet in truth they create one cohesive story. There is only “before” and “after” Christ, the hinge of history. This is why Peter used words like “salvation” and “grace” to frame the entire ministry of the Old Testament prophets (v. 10). They eagerly looked to the future to find out more specific details of the sufferings and glories of the coming Messiah (v. 11). We look back into the past, on the same events, through the apostles’ eyewitness accounts. Both the “before” and the “after” recorded in God’s Word are from the Holy Spirit (v. 12; see also 2 Peter 1:21). In fact, God revealed to the prophets that they were serving New Testament believers. Didn’t they have a message and an audience in their own historical context? Yes. However, they also had a message for us. God’s plan has always been for all nations and all of history, so it makes sense that the Word of God speaks within a specific time, while not being limited to any one time. >> Today, we wait for Christ’s Second Coming just as the OT prophets waited for His first coming. We have much to look forward to! How would the way you live change, if you knew that Jesus was returning today?
When I was in high school, my parents presented me with a Thompson Chain Reference Bible that I used as my main Bible for many years. By studying its extensive cross-references, I came to see the intricate interconnectedness of all Scripture. The Bible contains 66 books by many human authors, but it’s also one Book with one divine Author, built around one Story: redemption in Jesus Christ. That’s the story Jesus told to two of His followers: one named Cleopas, about whom we don’t know much, and the second unnamed. On a journey to Emmaus, they were discussing what had happened during Passion Week (vv. 14, 19–24). When Jesus joined them, they did not recognize Him (vv. 15–16). He rebuked them as “foolish” and “slow to believe” for their lack of understanding. They had failed to see what Scripture as a whole, and especially Messianic prophecy, had clearly foretold (vv. 25–26). Jesus explained the Old Testament Scriptures concerning Himself (v. 27). How amazing it would have been to listen in on that Bible lesson! Cleopas and his companion said it made their hearts burn within them (v. 32). If I could choose to be present for just one episode in the Gospels, excluding the Crucifixion and Resurrection, this might be the one. The two followers wanted to hear more, so they invited Him to dinner. Just as they began to eat, His identity was revealed, and He vanished. They turned around and hurried back to Jerusalem to report to the disciples. The Bible was penned by human authors from various cultures and historical eras, yet it has one Author. Many stories of faith and failure, yet it tells one Story—the gospel we’re commissioned to take to the world (Matt. 28:19–20)! >> One reason we study both the Old and New Testaments at Today in the Word is that all of God’s Word is inspired and useful (2 Tim. 3:16). As believers, we should study to become familiar with the entire Bible.
When a Mississippi church burned to the ground last August, firefighters were able to rescue a Bible that had sat on the pulpit every day for 178 years. One elder told a local TV station: “We are a Bible-believing church...the idea that essentially nothing in this church survived but the word of God—that’s not lost on us.” God’s Word cannot be defeated! Today’s Old Testament narrative is just one example of how God has preserved His Word through the ages. Jeremiah had received a prophetic word from the Lord, dictated it to his friend and scribe Baruch, and sought an audience to share it with King Jehoiakim of Judah. But the king was wicked and some godly court officials saw trouble coming. They urged Jeremiah and Baruch to hide and took the message to the king themselves. As the scroll was read to Jehoiakim, he cut it up piece by piece and fed it into the fire. This was a blatant act of pride, disrespect, and blasphemy. The very words of God were being read to him, and he responded with contempt. The writer could hardly believe that the king and his attendants showed no fear of the Lord (v. 24). They should have torn their clothes in grief and repentance. The godly friends of Jeremiah spoke up bravely, but to no avail (v. 25). The king ordered Jeremiah and Baruch arrested, but God protected them. God faithfully preserved His Word—not miraculously in this case, but by ordering Jeremiah and Baruch to write it again (vv. 28, 32). The words of judgment against Judah’s sin would certainly come true in any case. In addition, Jehoiakim would die a shameful death and his royal line would come to an end (vv. 29–31). >> Each generation must decide for themselves whether to obey God’s Word. When presented with similar words, King Josiah had publicly repented and brought revival to Judah. But how quickly things can change—Jehoiakim was his son (Jer. 36:1).
Some people say the Bible is filled with errors and should not be taken literally. Why should we trust the Bible? Is this merely a human-authored book or the actual Word of God? One reason we can trust the Bible is that many of the authors of the New Testament had seen Jesus for themselves. Before writing his Gospel, for example, Luke carefully investigated and interviewed eyewitnesses (Luke 1:1–4). The apostle Peter was another eyewitness (2 Peter 1:12–15). He didn’t teach “cleverly devised stories” (v. 16), but facts he had seen with his own eyes. Before he died, he wanted to share these truths with the church. Verse 15 might be a reference to the fact that Peter was a main source for the Gospel of Mark. Peter had been an eyewitness to Christ’s Transfiguration (vv. 16–18; Mark 9:1–10). He’d seen the glory of the incarnate Christ. He’d heard the voice of God declare, “This is my Son.” The “Majestic Glory” was the same divine glory that had filled the tabernacle and the temple at key moments in Israel’s history. Though he’d been ordered to keep silent until after the Resurrection, Peter was now able to testify freely. While God chose to work through human authors, He is the ultimate guarantee of Scripture’s truthfulness and reliability. Because God is the source, biblical prophecy and all of Scripture are “completely reliable” (vv. 19–21). Neither Peter nor the Old Testament prophets shared their own ideas. Their words didn’t originate in their own wills or imaginations. Rather, they “spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (v. 21). The church does not rest on a human foundation. Our faith can stand firm on the Word of God! >> Because God’s Word is a light in a dark place, we’re to “pay attention to it” (v. 19). Some of us may struggle to stay focused and pay attention when reading the Bible. What ideas do you have for improving in this area?
I used to collect baseball cards, but I never owned any as valuable as the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card. One in mint condition sold last August for $12.6 million. At the time of its original purchase, this card would have come in a pack that cost only a nickel. Today it is the most valuable piece of sports memorabilia ever sold at auction. As valuable as that Mickey Mantle card may be, God’s Word far surpasses it. The Bible is beyond priceless! Psalm 19 first presents the “book” of nature, describing how creation declares God’s glory (vv. 1–6). In today’s reading, it turns its attention to the Book of God. Scripture’s qualities and virtues reflect God, its source (vv. 7–9). The Word of God is perfect. It refreshes the soul and restores life. It’s true, trustworthy, and reliable. It teaches those who study and obey it so that they learn, grow, and mature. It’s good and righteous and therefore we’re able to rejoice in the right things. The Word is radiant—truthful and life-giving—providing guidance and keeping us alert. It’s also pure and endures forever. As a result, the psalmist is well justified in proclaiming that Scripture is supremely valuable, desirable, and delightful (vv. 10–12). This is true objectively—it’s more precious than gold, and experientially—it’s sweeter than honey. If we stray, it warns us back to the right path (see July 25). If we follow and obey it, we’ll receive “great reward” (v. 11). This psalm naturally develops into a prayer for righteousness (vv. 12–14). God’s Word can convict us, prompting us to pray for forgiveness of hidden sins, as well as to repent of willful or habitual sins. May all that we think, say, and do be pleasing in God’s sight! >> Why not make verses 12–14 your own prayer today? It is not enough to admire the Bible from a distance, instead, allow the Word of God to invade and transform your life!
The Library of Congress recently digitized the Giant Bible of Mainz (Germany). Its pages measure 22.6 inches by 15.9 inches. This is an entirely handwritten Bible, completed in two volumes by a single scribe over a fifteen-month period in 1452–1453. If you go to the web page LOC.gov, you can view this historical treasure for yourself! Be aware, though, that you’ll only be able to read it if you know Latin. God’s Word is valuable and perfect in any format! Psalm 18 talks about God’s deliverance and His faithful character. As we see in verse 30, His “perfect” way and His “flawless” word are parallel and complementary truths. There is a sense, then, in which who God is and what He does are things that can also be ascribed to Scripture because it is the Word of God. Today’s reading provides a rich description in this regard. Who is God and what does He do? The Lord shields or gives refuge to His people (vv. 30, 35). He strengthens us and trains us for spiritual battle (vv. 32, 34). He gives us a smooth path and keeps it secure (vv. 32, 36). He helps us stand firm and even leap “like a deer” (v. 33). He sustains us each day (v. 35). He is our Rock (v. 31)—the foundation of our lives, the only solid place to stand in the shifting sands of this world. Since God’s way and words are “perfect” and “flawless,” they never fail. They are entirely true, reliable, and trustworthy, in the same sense that refined silver or gold are perfectly pure (Ps. 12:6). We can never go wrong following the Bible! >> Where are you today in your spiritual journey? Rejoicing? Grieving? Struggling? Confused? Take some time to reread Psalm 18. Rest in these truths! Know that whatever place you may be in your walk with God, you can trust entirely in God’s perfect way and in His perfect Word.
Do you believe the Bible is the literal Word of God? According to a recent Gallup poll, most people don’t! In fact, only 20 percent hold this belief, a number just half of what it was in 1980. Even among self-identified evangelicals, only 40 percent believe the Bible is God’s Word. A growing number feel the Bible is merely “a collection of ‘fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man.’” Believing the Bible is the inspired Word of God is a core doctrine for followers of Christ. The Bible claims: “All Scripture is God breathed” or “inspired” (v. 16). God has the unique ability to give life, as when He breathed into Adam the breath of life (Gen. 2:7). Similarly, the psalmist wrote: “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth” (Ps. 33:6). Inspiration means that God, while working through human authors, was actively and directly involved in the writing of His Word. We call this “verbal plenary inspiration,” and it means that every word of Scripture is true (Titus 1:2). The purposes of inspiration are listed in today’s passage as teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (v. 16; see Rom. 15:4). Scripture is inspired, so “that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (v. 17). We don’t read the Bible just to appear more intelligent, but to allow God to work through us. Scripture reveals God to us, and when it comes to God, there is always more to learn. Studying the Bible transforms us. We grow and mature and become more like Christ (v. 15). Salvation means that God is taking sinners and turning us into saints! >> Today in the Word is published by Moody Bible Institute. We believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God. If you are interested in learning more about us, go to Moody’s web page where our doctrinal statement is posted (Article II). There you will find Moody’s specific positional statement about Scripture.
If you’re like me, you have trouble sticking to one-year Bible reading plans. I tend to get bogged down in mid-Leviticus or somewhere among the evil kings in the historical books. So, it is comforting to realize that the Word of God is not only a book but also a Person! The Gospel of John begins in an interesting and theologically deep way. John explains that Christ is the “Word” or “Logos” (v. 1). This Greek term can mean spoken language as well as unspoken (our reason). More deeply, it refers to “the principle which governs the universe.” God’s laws and decrees govern everything. This is seen most clearly in the creation account of Genesis 1, which John consciously echoes. Christ (“The Word”) is God the Son. He has been with God the Father since eternity past (v. 2). He participated in creation (v. 3; see also Col. 1:16). He is life; He is light; He is victorious (vv. 4–5). He is the source of spiritual life, just as He explained during His earthly ministry. He told a baffled Nicodemus that he needed to be born again, a spiritual rebirth (John 3:3–5). He told a grieving Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). Jesus called Himself “the light,” which means knowledge and truth and, therefore, hope. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12; see also Ps. 27:1). Because Christ is the living Word of God, we can have complete confidence in the written Word of God. Our loving Savior stands behind the written Word as the perfect revelation of God to us. >> Did you know you can pray through God’s Word? Praying Scripture back to God is a very helpful spiritual habit. Simply read the passage aloud to Him. As you pray today’s passage, thank God for the profound, life-giving truths given to us in the person of Christ.
Almost everything we see in the world around us will eventually wear out and die. The grass fades. Flowers wilt. Stars burn out. Pens run out of ink. Cars break down. Technology becomes outdated. This is the way it is in a fallen world: everything must decay and die. The Bible says that even our “faithfulness” is like the grass of the field, that is, it too withers and dies (Isa. 40:6). The word “faithfulness” has also been translated as “beauty,” “goodness,” and “constancy.” The basic meaning of verse 6 is, as one translation explains: “Human beings and their faithfulness... are short-lived and unreliable, in stark contrast to the decrees and promises of the eternal God.” Scripture tells us that one thing stands in sharp contrast to the transitory nature of this world: “the word of our God endures forever” (Isa. 40:8). This month, we are studying the doctrine of Scripture; we will learn what the Bible teaches about God’s Word and how we can apply it to our lives. We hope you will join us as we learn about the perfect Word of God! Today’s reading in Isaiah is quoted in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 1:23–25. Here Peter connects the living and enduring Word of God to our imperishable salvation in Christ. God’s Word is not just eternal, as important as that is. It is also true and life-giving and reflects God’s faithfulness, power, and love (see Ps. 119:89–90). Jesus made the same claim for His own words: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (Matt. 24:35). They are eternal, and they will be fulfilled or proved true. We can trust God’s Word absolutely. >> Have you ever started the year with a plan to read through the entire Bible? For most of us our well-intentioned plans are short-lived. Since it is July, midway through the year, why not make a new commitment to study the Bible each day for this entire month?
Leadership begins and ends with trust. Followers must be able to trust their leaders, and leaders must be able to trust their followers. One without the other is a lopsided relationship. Booker T. Washington said, “Few things help an individual more than to place responsibility upon him, and to let him know that you trust him.” Many people trusted the Apostle Paul as one of the prominent leaders of the early church. But his leadership was successful because he had people he could also trust. One of his most trusted companions was someone most people in the first century would not expect: a woman named Phoebe. In that culture, women had very little say or role in leadership. Not only was there no seat at the table for women, but society knew women as little more than servants. But Paul viewed women as children of God who could and should be trusted to bring Christianity to the next generations. In Romans 16, Paul mentions Phoebe who had been a tremendous help to the apostle. Because of her, the letter to the Romans safely arrived in their hands. The length of this letter alone would have been costly to produce, let alone for it to be delivered. Paul viewed Phoebe as the right person for the job. He couldn’t have predicted it at the time, but she delivered one of the most important letters in the history of humanity. Paul wrote that the Romans were to welcome her with open arms and in an honorable manner (v. 2a). Knowing she was a noblewoman who could be trusted, he told them to give her whatever she needed (v. 2b). She was a true gift to Paul, the Romans, and us. Like all Christian relationships, their bond was built on trust in Christ and trust in one another. >> As we conclude our study on unlikely leaders, consider how and where God might be calling you to lead! What leadership lesson has been challenging to you? How do you think God might be stretching you to grow as a godly leader?
It has been said that you are either in a trial, exiting out of a trial, or entering into a trial...you just aren’t aware of it yet. We can either whine and complain when trials come or learn to become the men and women God wants us to be. We aren’t the first ones in history to ever face trials. Trials are part of the DNA of the church. When you look at how the church began, it was flooded with trials, especially the early church in Jerusalem. Their pastor, James, the half-brother of Jesus, encouraged his congregation to look at trials not as torture but as an opportunity to learn and grow. James knew that trials are not an option for the Christian. They will come in all shapes and sizes (v. 2). Like a baseball pitcher, some come in like a rocketed fastball. You hardly see them coming, and they set you back on your heels. Others are curveballs where you expect one thing, but it turns out to be completely different. James uses the word “testing” to denote a positive event intended to make our faith authentic and genuine (v. 3). Our testing results in perseverance, or steadfastness. The Christian faith is not a sprint; it is a marathon. James wants his readers to run to spiritual maturity (v. 4). Sometimes Christians get distracted, thinking that Christianity’s goal is merely to learn more about the Bible. While knowing the Bible is extremely important, this knowledge alone does not equal spiritual maturity. A few verses later, James writes, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (v. 22). As a leader, are you willing to reflect on and learn from your trials? >> No one wants to go through trials. But, as James teaches, these trials can help us grow in spiritual maturity. If you are going through a difficult time, ask God for wisdom (v. 5) to grow in your faith and learn from this experience.
Jesus charged the disciples with making disciples throughout Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Still, they never imagined that would include reaching out to the Pharisees and religious elites. So, when word spread that Saul, a Pharisee trained under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3) and persecutor of Christians, had an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, it would certainly have been hard for them to believe it. After three years of learning about the teachings of Christ and how He fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies (Gal. 1:18), Saul ventured to Jerusalem to meet with Peter and James, the Lord’s brother. However, upon arrival, the disciples did not welcome him. He tried to join the disciples, but they were skeptical and feared he would arrest them (v. 26). They were at an impasse, and no side was making any progress. Then an unlikely leader named Barnabas stepped in. Barnabas took the initiative to set up a meeting between Saul and the other disciples. He interceded for Saul, testified regarding what happened to him on the road to Damascus, and how Saul “preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus” (v. 27). Barnabas opened a door for Saul that changed his life as well as countless others. It is hard to imagine what Christianity would have looked like without the Apostle Paul. His letters shaped Western Civilization. His missionary journeys and his legacy of ministry laid the foundation for Christianity to spread worldwide. Possibly no one would have heard about Saul’s conversion or been impacted by his ministry if Barnabas had not interceded. This small act of opening a door for Saul led to the spread of Christianity as we know it today. >> Godly leaders use their position and power to pave the way for others. What doors can you open for others today? How can you help someone take the next step? One small act just may be the linchpin to unlock someone’s potential.
In the first century, it was illegal for family members to retrieve the crucified bodies of their loved ones. Dead bodies typically hung for days, if not weeks, so the message was clear: Do not mess with the Roman Empire! After some time, the Romans would pry the bodies off the cross, carry them in a wagon, cart them down to the Valley of Gehenna, and dump them into a rat-infested mass grave. The same would have happened to Jesus’ body if not for the boldness of two unlikely leaders, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. At some point, as the rest of the followers fled, Nicodemus and Joseph looked at Jesus’ body and reflected on the Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah’s suffering (Isa. 53:5–6). They must have concluded that Jesus was indeed the Son of Man who took away the sins of the world (John 3:1–17). They decided that they couldn’t hide their faith in Him any longer. They mustered up the strength to go directly to Pilate and ask for the body (v. 38). John is very meticulous about how Nicodemus and Joseph prepared the body, wrapped it in cloths, and placed it in a tomb (vv. 39–42). Matthew and Mark tell us they sealed the tomb shut and went home. They probably had no expectation of ever seeing Jesus alive again. If the Romans threw Jesus’ body into the open grave known as Gehenna, and then He appeared a few days later, skeptics could have easily debunked the resurrection. People would have said Jesus was exhausted, not executed. But Nicodemus’s and Joseph’s faith, courage, and concern for the body of Jesus made it possible for first-century believers (and us!) to be confident that Jesus actually died and rose again. These unlikely leaders were bold in their faith. >> If people found out you were a Christian, would they be surprised? List three things that may prevent you from expressing your love for Christ. Stop hiding your faith and go public, despite the consequences.
Boston College runner Madeline Adams was just 200 feet away from finishing the ACC cross country championship race. Just as she was achieving her personal best time, she felt her body collapse due to exhaustion. Her rival Evie Tate from Clemson noticed Adams struggling to stand. In a display of extraordinary sportsmanship, Tate sacrificed her finishing position to put her arm under Adams. Louisville’s Rachel Pease saw both women stumbling, took Adams’s other arm, and assisted until all three competitors crossed the finish line. In Matthew, Mark, and Luke, the writers record how the Roman soldiers forced a man named Simon to help Jesus carry the crossbeam up to Golgotha. It is unclear why they chose Simon from the crowd. Perhaps he had demonstrated compassion or maybe he looked different. No matter the reason he was chosen for the task, Simon did what was asked and helped Jesus get to the ultimate finish line. This close encounter with our Savior changed him. Simon was born in northern Africa in the city of Cyrene. The Cyrenian Jews had a synagogue in Jerusalem, so it was likely that Simon was there to celebrate Passover. Simon eventually went home and shared his experience with his wife and sons, Alexander and Rufus (v. 21). The inclusion of their names suggests they were well known as early Christian leaders. While we don’t know the rest of Simon’s story, we do know that eventually, Rufus and his mom would meet up with Paul. This mother and son duo encouraged Paul in his faith and most likely shared Simon’s story of the time he helped to carry Jesus’ cross. Rufus’s mom became a surrogate mother to Paul, and Paul looked forward to reuniting with them in Rome (Rom. 16:13). >> How can you carry someone else’s burden today? Sometimes we fail to notice the needs directly around us. Today, look for opportunities to lighten someone else’s load. You may never know the ripple effect one small act of compassion can have.
Cheryl Bachelder, former CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, was determined to turn around the struggling fast-food chain. The leadership team focused on improving the company’s relationship with their 340 franchise owners. By choosing to serve and even love these individuals, they saw dramatic results. Their change of behavior was spurred by one question: “Do you love the people you lead?” What does it mean to love the people you lead? Jesus shows us in John 13. Not a person present at the Passover meal would ever forget this demonstration of servant leadership. Since the men would recline at the table to eat, their feet would have been relatively close to the food. Foot washing was necessary, but typically assigned to a lowly servant. Imagine everyone’s surprise when Jesus took the initiative to do the dirty job. One of the first phases of the Passover meal was the ceremonial hand washing with a unique laver bowl and towel. Peter, like the others, needed clarification about what was happening. Rightfully so. Jesus was setting the example for them of loving others through service regardless of rank or position (vv. 15–16). Whenever we consider a task below us, we would do well to remember this example set by our Lord and Savior. Loving one another as Jesus loved ought to be the identifying mark of all Christian believers (v. 35). Everything else falls under the umbrella of this command. The love and service of unlikely Christian leaders toward one another make them stand out in pagan societies. >> Is there a task you struggle to do? What if you embrace this unsavory job as an opportunity to love like Jesus? For all leaders today, especially Christian leaders, our lives ought to influence our families, churches, and organizations through selfless love and sacrificial service. Just as Jesus loved us, we are called to love one another.
After receiving an Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award, the late Fred Rogers asked the crowd, “Would you just take along with me10 seconds to think of the people who have helped you become who you are?” He concluded, “How pleased they must be to know the difference you feel they’ve made.” Rogers understood that transformational leaders leave a lasting impact on others. They inspire others to accomplish great things by listening, advising, cheering, and by example. Let’s read Luke 10:38–42 for a third time. Today, we focus on Jesus, a transformational leader. No one who encountered Jesus walked away unchanged. Even though He was the Son of God, the promised Messiah, He took the time to understand each person, responding to their individual needs with care and compassion. We are told that “Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus” (John 11:5). During the visit described in Luke 10, Jesus noticed Martha’s stress as she cared for the details of hosting. He responded in a very personal way. By saying her name twice, He demonstrated that He knew her and cared about her. In the original Hebrew, it would have sounded like “My dear, dear Martha” (v. 41). Calmly and compassionately, He taught Martha about the most essential things in life. He did not disregard her service but pointed to something even better. As transformational leaders, we can follow the lead of Jesus by noticing the people in our lives. Getting to know them and walking alongside them on their faith journey is a mark of true leadership. >> Take some time today to think about the people who have influenced you and helped you become the person you are today. The people who come to mind might not have an official title, but their influence on your life is significant. If you have a moment, write a note of thanks to one of those individuals.
The phrase “servant leadership” was coined by Robert Greenleaf in the 1970s. While working at AT&T, Greenleaf recognized that individuals and organizations ought to be known as servants who lead instead of leaders who happen to serve. He said the best test to determine if one is a true servant leader is asking, “Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants?” In Luke 10, Jesus visits the home of Mary and Martha. Today, we turn our attention to Martha. It is easy to read this passage and shake our heads in disappointment at Martha who, rather than sitting and listening to Jesus, was bustling around preparing dinner. We may think, “Oh, Martha, Martha, Martha. You’re not focusing on what truly matters. Always trying to impress...” But before we criticize Martha for her Southern-Bethany hospitality, take a closer look at where Luke places this account. Notice that it comes directly after Jesus’ Good Samaritan parable of going above and beyond to help one’s neighbor. Is Luke simply playing mind games with his readers? No. Martha was fulfilling the lesson of the Good Samaritan (vv. 25–37). Like the Good Samaritan, she saw a need and was doing everything she could to meet it. The problem was that her efforts to make everything perfect outdid the need to serve, and the text says she was “distracted” (v. 40). Could she have simplified her preparations? Was her focus on the right thing? Servant leaders don’t serve just to complete a task. Instead, they serve, so that they and others will grow and become more like Christ. >> What part of servant leadership challenges you? Do you struggle to see the needs of others? Or, in serving, do you focus more on perfection than meeting the actual need? Challenge yourself to find a way to serve someone selflessly today.
Pick any year, and you can easily name a corporate scandal, whether Enron, the Volkswagen emissions, or, more recently, the corruption of the cryptocurrency FTX Trading company. It’s no wonder we find it difficult to trust leaders! By contrast, authentic leadership encourages leaders to be self-aware, transparent, and lead from the heart. For the next three days, we will read the same text considering three different types of leadership. First, we’ll understand what it means to lead with authenticity by learning from Mary. In Luke 10, Jesus visited the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It was rare for a rabbi to allow women to sit at his feet, but Jesus was different, and so was Mary. She soaked up Jesus’ teaching like a sponge and had a hunger for learning. Mary was confident in who she was but also aware of her surroundings. Authentic leaders are transparent; they allow others to see their emotions. Mary exhibited these qualities. After her brother Lazarus died and Jesus showed up late to the funeral, Mary openly and honestly let Jesus know how hurt she was. When He saw Mary’s authentic self, Jesus was “deeply moved in spirit and troubled” and later wept (see also John 11:33–35). Mary was focused on the bigger picture. She did not get caught up in the details like her sister, Martha. In our text, Jesus tells Martha that Mary has “chosen what is better” (v. 42). Having an authentic relationship with the Lord is the most crucial part of one’s life. Mary was willing to share her emotions with others. Some may view Mary as lazy or overly dramatic, but she was a woman whom the Lord used to teach others about Himself and His kingdom. >> Being an authentic leader takes vulnerability. How can you be more transparent with the people in your life, especially those under your leadership? Explore ways to share what is in your heart with others.
For some of us, risk taking is part of our DNA. According to a groundbreaking new study, more than 100 genetic variants are linked with those who take risks. But even if we are the cautious type, being a godly leader may require us to step out of our comfort zone and into the arena. That was the case with the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15. Jesus had withdrawn to Tyre and Sidon, coastal towns on the Mediterranean, both in the Roman providence of Syria (v. 22). The Canaanites were native to the region where Joshua and his army had displaced them centuries earlier (Joshua 3). In essence, the Jews and Canaanites never played nicely together. Yet, word had spread that a miracle-working Jew was traveling through the region. The woman’s plea to Jesus to heal her daughter showed that she had some knowledge and respect of His history and power (v. 22). However, the disciples wanted nothing to do with her. They tried to brush her off. At first glance, Jesus seemed ready to dismiss her as well. Still, the woman became more insistent, crying: “Lord, help me!” (v. 25). Jesus’ response may seem harsh as He pointed out His specific mission to the Jewish people (v. 26). But she refused to give up. Her insistent response demonstrated her insight regarding the unique relationship between Yahweh and the Jewish people (v. 27). Was it her insistence, boldness, knowledge of the Jewish covenant, or respect for Jesus that made Him change His mind? We don’t know. But Jesus also saw a mother who loved her daughter and would go to great lengths to get the help she needed. Jesus expressed admiration for her faith and granted her request (v. 28). >> Are you a risk taker? Or are you more of a safety-first person? Regardless, if you truly believe you are who Jesus says you are, you will be empowered to take risks. Consider how God might be calling you to step out of your comfort zone.
In his book, Leading with a Limp, Dan Allender goes against the norm. He encourages leaders not to hide their weaknesses, but to use them! He recognizes that all leaders are broken, and God can use our brokenness to help others. Instead of protecting our image, Allender suggests that God can use imperfect yet authentic leaders to accomplish amazing things. But facing our imperfection is intimidating. Just ask the woman at the well. In John 4, we read that Jesus came to the town of Samaria. Tired, He sat down at a well around noontime, and a Samaritan woman came to draw water. At first glance, this woman had three strikes against her. For starters, being a woman didn’t give her much status. Being a Samaritan lowered her status even more. And drawing water at noon— all alone—was her third strike. In everyone’s eyes, she was deplorable. Except in the eyes of Jesus. To Him, she had value. Many scholars speculate that this woman had so many husbands because she enjoyed a promiscuous lifestyle. However, cultural context may suggest that because she was unable to conceive and produce an heir (vv. 16–18), one by one, her husbands would have shown her the door. But after her encounter with Jesus, she saw that despite her past, God loved her (vv. 21–26). After her interaction with the Messiah, she left both the well and her shame behind. This unlikely messenger returned to the people who had shunned her and convinced them to experience what she had witnessed (vv. 29–30). God used her imperfections to introduce others to God’s love: “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony” (v. 39). >> Celebrating your success is excellent, but you can grow more when learning from your mistakes. When was the last time you failed? What did you learn from that experience? Who in your life needs to learn that lesson, too?
Do you have a lot of followers on Facebook? Did your last post get dozens of likes? In our social media obsessed world, it is easy to become self-focused. Who among us doesn’t enjoy being the center of positive attention? But God desires leaders who are willing to step out of the spotlight. In John 3, we meet John the Baptist. He mainly lived on the outskirts of town in the wilderness. The evangelist would have been easy to spot with his camel’s hair clothing and leather belt. If he joined you for lunch, locusts with wild honey would be on the menu (Matt. 3:1–6). John didn’t have a people-pleasing mentality; he called people out on their sins. No one got a hall pass, not even King Herod (Mark 6). John’s mission was to shine the spotlight on Jesus. In John 3, John’s disciples were playing the comparison game. “That man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him” (v. 26). They urged John to do something. After all, he was losing followers. But John focused on the truth: “I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him” (v. 28). His job was not to gain a name for himself, but to point people to Jesus. John’s motto in life was, “He must become greater; I must become less” (v. 30). This is a good example for us too. As we turn the spotlight on Jesus, He will become the focus, and the attention placed on us will decrease. God’s unlikely leaders are men and women who know the truth and would rather be off-stage than front and center. >> How can you turn the spotlight off yourself and instead turn people’s eyes to Jesus? Consider what and why you post on social media. Maybe today you could glorify God by highlighting another individual or organization that is doing His work.
As a professor, I am sometimes asked to introduce guest speakers in chapel and at conferences. I sometimes struggle with finding the right words to say, sorting through all the things I know about the person to phrase the perfect introduction. Imagine, for a moment, that you were asked to introduce Jesus. How would you describe Him? In John 1:14–18, the apostle John does just that. John knew Jesus as His friend, his esteemed leader, and also as the Messiah to the world. Here John describes Jesus as One whose life is marked by humility. The Son of God chose to dwell with us. Jesus knew that the people He came to serve would turn their backs on Him. Even so, He chose to come and dwell with us (v. 14). John and others saw “his glory” firsthand, how it radiated and reflected God the Father (v. 14). John describes Jesus as “full of grace and truth,” (v. 14). The word “full” is significant. Jesus didn’t display 50 percent grace and 50 percent truth, He fully embodied both qualities. In every situation and in every encounter, Jesus poured out these attributes. He spoke truthfully. He never sugar-coated sin and yet, He also extended grace. Grace is defined as the unmerited or undeserved favor of God toward humanity. Jesus embodied both truth and grace. His death on the cross was the ultimate example. “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). While we have considered many examples of great leaders, our ultimate example will always be Jesus. What would it take for our lives to be characterized by grace and truth? >> What would they say if someone had a few moments to introduce you and your leadership style? What would you hope they would say? Now, what do you need to change, so your life can match their words?
We value leaders, but what about followers? It is a topic often overlooked, but followership is at the very heart of leadership. Imagine Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., or Winston Churchill without any followers. Their many faithful followers demonstrated their ability to lead well. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was the ideal follower. When God surveyed all creation, He appointed Mary to look after His one and only Son. To say Mary was surprised at her meeting with Gabriel would be a huge understatement. It is certainly not every day that an angel of the Lord greets you with news that you will give birth to the Messiah. This announcement was the first for Gabriel too. This was the first and only time he would announce the birth of the Messiah. It took him several attempts to convince Mary that she was the one chosen to raise the Son of God (vv. 28, 30, 35). Gabriel told Mary that a miracle had come to Elizabeth, too (v. 36). Her older cousin was also pregnant. Luke places the stories of Mary and Elizabeth side by side, contrasting their remarkable and similar situations. Elizabeth had been trying to get pregnant, but she could not because of her old age. Young Mary had never been with a man. Yet, both became pregnant, and Elizabeth’s child, John, would prepare the way for Mary’s child, Jesus. Both women trusted God and followed Him faithfully because, as Gabriel said, “No word from God will ever fail” (v. 37). Mary’s final words to Gabriel demonstrated her commitment to being God’s follower: “I am the Lord’s servant” (v. 38). This teenage girl’s willingness to obey God amid impossible circumstances made her both a faithful follower and an unlikely leader. >> Sometimes, the best way to lead is by following. It sounds counterintuitive, but followers make the best leaders. What about you? Would God describe you as a loyal, humble, and courageous follower?
Peer pressure isn’t constrained to the halls of high school. It can find its way into the nooks and crevices of our work, friends, and culture. We give into peer pressure for many reasons. We may feel the need to be accepted. Or we would rather “go along” so we can “get along.” But the leaders whom God uses are those men and women who are willing to stand up for what they believe. Standing up for God is what three young men did when faced with not only peer pressure but the possibility of death. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were far from home and enslaved by King Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians. Showing tremendous courage, they refused orders to bow down and worship the king’s statue (v. 6). Nebuchadnezzar was so angered by their resistance that he ordered them to either worship him or be sentenced to death by fire (vv. 13–15). It was decision time. Instead of giving in to peer and political pressure, these unlikely leaders responded with boldness and courage. But what puts their response to Nebuchadnezzar on the list of all-time greatest comebacks: “The God we serve is able to deliver us...but even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up” (vv. 17–18). In response, Nebuchadnezzar ordered the heat to be turned up to scorching (v. 19). But God came to the boys’ rescue (v. 25). Many scholars believe that the fourth person in the fire was the pre-incarnate Jesus Christ. It can be challenging to do the right thing, especially in the face of peer pressure, but God uses leaders who can stand up when others so easily fall short. >> Choose an area in your life where you need to be bold regarding your commitment to Christ. Sure, it might cost you something or someone, but remember, God will be with you the whole time.
Evangelist Dwight Lyman Moody was passionate about pouring into the next generation. In Chicago, he gathered orphans to begin his first Sunday School. Then, after founding Bible training schools in New England and Chicago, Moody determined that even poor and less-privileged students should be able to learn about God and His Word. While he asked supporters for help, he also paid the tuition for needy students out of his own pocket. Godly leaders practice what they preach. While yesterday we read how David was chosen by God to be Israel’s king, today we witness the end of his reign. King David was about to hand over the blueprints for God’s Temple to his son Solomon (v. 1). In one last act of leadership, David again led by example. Instead of taxing his people or enslaving foreigners to build the Temple, David donated his personal treasures to the building fund (v. 3). This set off a chain reaction of giving. The leaders of each family began to give willingly (v.6). Then, with the whole assembly watching, David praised God. He exalted the Lord for His eternalness (v. 10), greatness and omnipotence (v. 11), provision, authority, and strength (v. 12). Verses 14–19 show the close relationship David had with God. He recognized that everything given was God’s to begin with (v. 16). He continued to lead with his heart, which means leading with integrity and honesty (v. 17). In the end, David recognized that God did not concern Himself with the amount that His people gave but rather with the manner in which it was given. Truly leading by example means more than just what people will see. People can tell when their leaders are being genuine and authentic. >> Integrity is not gauged by what you do or don’t do when others are watching but rather by how you act when no one is around. Lead by example, especially when others can’t see you, and watch it make a difference in your life and the lives of those you lead.
What makes a great leader? Many people choose leaders because they “look the part” or “had the most success.” However, according to the Scriptures, the mark of a great leader goes much deeper. God taught this lesson to His prophet Samuel when he was tasked with anointing the new leader of Israel. God sent Samuel to Bethlehem, to the home of Jesse, saying: “I have chosen one of his sons to be king” (v. 1). Samuel determined to find someone worthy of the challenge. He knew that King Saul was not the type to pack up his bags and go off quietly into the night. Saul had a colossal frame and an even more significant presence (1 Sam. 9:2). Once he arrived at Jesse’s home and met his seven sons, Samuel was impressed. He probably thought, “Surely among these young men is the perfect candidate to unseat King Saul” (vv. 8–10). However, as he evaluated each son, Samuel was not convinced. God taught Samuel not to look at the external appearance, because great leaders go deeper than what can be seen. “People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (v. 7). But there was one more son, the youngest. Saul would anoint David as God’s chosen one, and “the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully” upon him (v. 13). The LORD chose David to lead because He knew David would lead from the heart (v. 12). What does that mean? Leading from the heart means that the Lord’s purpose becomes your purpose. Though he would not lead a perfect life, David took responsibility for his actions and learned how to trust God with his whole heart. >> You may not feel like a leader, but God looks beyond your external traits or credentials. He is searching deeper than that; He is looking at your heart. Rest assured that if God chooses to use you, He will help you fulfill the role.
The Righteous Among the Nations was established to honor non-Jews who took great risks to save Jewish families during the Holocaust. Over half of these are women, known as “The Women of Valor.” Some hid people in their homes. Others helped them flee to safety. In the face of pure evil, they found the strength to lead. But World War II was certainly not the first time evil threatened the Jewish people. Around 479 B.C., King Xerxes decreed “to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews—young and old, women and children —on a single day” (Esther 3:13). Who would step in to save God’s people? Esther was a young Jewish woman who had found favor with King Xerxes. Selected for her beauty, she joined the ranks as one of the king’s many wives (2:7–9). Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, found out that a decree had been sent to extinguish the Jews (3:13) and pleaded for his niece to do something (vv. 1–8). The young woman insisted it was out of her hand; she had very little power and very little opportunity to help (v. 11). Even more, a failed attempt on her part would risk the death penalty. But Mordecai’s words of wisdom tugged at Esther’s heart. He insisted that her position in the royal palace was not a mistake. “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (v. 14). Esther’s position gave her a key opportunity to influence the king (vv. 12–14). Despite great personal risk, Esther found courage to act: “If I perish, I perish” (v. 16). God used her brave obedience to rescue His people. >> If situations don’t directly affect us, it can be easy to be indifferent or passive. Getting involved can seem too risky. But when we see brothers and sisters in Christ who are being mistreated, we cannot be silent. Like Esther, we should consider how God can use our position and our voice to help those in need.
Tragedy keeps a sloppy appointment book. There is no way to avoid it, and it is never welcome. But when difficult things happen to us, do we consider ourselves first or the needs of others? In the book of Ruth, we find three women facing extreme heartbreak. When Naomi had first been forced to leave her country due to famine, she was comforted that her husband and sons would care for her (vv. 1–2). Because her sons were married, she probably looked forward to being a grandmother (v. 3). But then anguish showed its nasty head. First, Naomi’s husband died (v. 3). Then, the two younger women, Ruth and Orpah lost their husbands: “Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband” (v. 5). As the famine ended, Naomi decided to return to Judah and encouraged her daughters-in-law to return to their own mothers. But rather than agreeing to what was best for them, both women insisted on staying with their mother-in-law (v. 10). After further discussion, Orpah begrudgingly left Naomi (v. 14), but still Ruth remained (vv. 16–18). She said, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay” (v. 16). Ruth showed great empathy in putting Naomi’s needs above her own. In the same way, godly leaders value others and focus on understanding situations from another’s perspective. They take a sincere interest in the care and well-being of others and step in however needed. Ruth displayed empathetic leadership as she saw Naomi’s struggle and determined to help no matter the cost. She understood the needs of those around her and, by doing what she could to help, stepped into the bigger plan God had for her life. >> When you see others going through tough times, what do you consider first: your own needs or the needs of others? Ask yourself, “How would being in this person’s position make me feel?” Then ask how you can help.
When you’re up against an enemy, most people will agree there is strength in numbers. The more people on your side, the more likely you are to win. But in Judges 7, we learn that numbers are meaningless when God is involved. The Lord tasked Gideon with leading the Israelites into battle against the Midianites who had oppressed them for seven years (Judges 6:1). Their power was “oppressive” (6:2). In the valley, their warriors were as “thick as locusts”, and their camels like “the sand on the seashore” (7:12). The odds were clearly stacked against Gideon and his army. His army consisted of 32,000 soldiers. However, God knew that even with this many people, they would boast about their strength (vv. 2–3). So, Gideon eliminated 22,000 soldiers who were too fearful to fight. With 10,000 remaining, God decided there were still too many. Like a master gardener pruning shrubs, God continued to remove men from Gideon’s army. After drinking from the river, only the ones who kept alert by lapping the water from their hands were allowed to stay (vv. 5–8). This reduced the army to a measly 300. God wanted only the alert and courageous to fight for Him. Despite the small size of his army, Gideon received confirmation through a Midianite’s dream that the Lord was in control (vv. 13–15). That night, he gathered his men and concocted a plan that most likely baffled his seasoned warriors. Perhaps they thought it was a result of his inexperience, but they trusted him and God. Leadership can be frightening because you are taking people where they have never been before. Here we see God teach Gideon that our strength is not in numbers; our strength must come only from God. >> Despite what you might think, leaders often experience fear. What fears (failure, rejection, inadequacy, conflict, loneliness, etc.) are most likely to prevent you from facing a difficult situation? What does today’s reading teach us about fear?
The receptionist responded, “Are you crazy, lady?” and immediately hung up the phone. But that didn’t stop Judy Sheindlin. Three years later, in 1996, Sheindlin convinced CBS television producers to run a daytime reality court show starring her in the main role. For the next 25 years, Judge Judy became one of America’s most famous judges and personalities. In the Old Testament, judges were appointed to preside over disputes and to act as military leaders. In Judges chapter 4, we find God’s people crying out to the Lord for help (v. 3). God loved His people so much that instead of allowing them to drift into sin constantly, He had permitted them to be sold into slavery (vv. 1–2). It took them 20 years to come to their senses (v. 3). During this time of bondage, Deborah didn’t seek a leadership role or making a name for herself. She simply wanted to serve the Lord. The Hebrew word for leading (v. 4) means to judge, to govern, or to act as a decision-maker. The Israelites looked to Deborah for leadership, and she delivered: “She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided” (v. 5). When the time came to speak the truth, she didn’t shy away. She called for Barak, the army’s commander, to go into battle and free those enslaved (vv. 6–7). When he hesitated to proceed alone (v. 8), Deborah agreed to go with Barak (v. 11) and predicted that the glory of the battle would go to a woman, and not to Barak (Judges 4:17–21). >> Leaders rise to the challenge. And Christ followers can do that not because we are great but because God is on our side. Is there something you have been putting off doing? Whatever it is, ask God if this is His will, then stand tall and take the initiative.
The pandemic changed typical home life in both good and bad ways. Families were forced to work alongside each other, sharing more spaces and meals than before. Children observed their parents’ ability to problem-solve and trust God during challenging times. Time will only tell the spiritual impact that unexpected “time together” had on our families. In Joshua 24, we see the household of Joshua and his fellow Israelite families making a choice to serve God. After reminding the Israelites how God fulfilled His covenant by delivering them to the Promised Land (vv. 3–13), Joshua explained what they should do “now” (v. 14). First, he urged them to be faithful (v. 14). He commanded them to throw away any false idols they had carried from Egypt. Notice that he gave them a choice! “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve” (v. 15). Being God’s leader does not mean we can demand obedience from others. Instead of dictating to the Israelites to serve Yahweh, Joshua led through example. He boldly declared, “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (v. 15). For Joshua, leadership started in his home. His most important mission field was his family. He first battled the enemy at the front door of his home. No false idols would seep into his household. They would serve the Lord. Joshua was not ashamed of his family’s allegiance to Yahweh. Others witnessed Joshua and his family’s commitment to serve the Lord. They responded to the example set before them by recalling the many miracles of God. They remembered the Lord’s coat of protection he placed on them throughout their entire journey (vv. 16 17). They followed Joshua’s leadership and committed to serving Yahweh (v. 18). >> Are you a leader in your home? You can influence your family through prayer, Scripture reading, daily devotions, spending time with your family members, writing letters or text messages to them. No matter what your role outside the home, what happens within is very important.
Do you remember learning about Alexander the Great? At a certain point in his world conquest, he and his leaders became concerned. Examining their maps, they realized they had come to the very edge on each side. How could they proceed when it was all unknown? The people of Israel faced a similar situation. Joshua had brought them to the banks of the Jordan River looking into the land God promised. But this was unchartered territory. However, on the other side of the Jordan was Rahab, an unlikely person whom God would use to assure the Israelites that their future was secure. Joshua sent spies in to survey the land. There they found a haven in the house of Rahab, a prostitute (v. 1). However, after their hideout was exposed, the king’s men were sent on a mission to capture and kill them. Sensing danger, Rahab used what little power and leverage she had and hid the spies on the roof of her house (vv. 4–7). Rahab risked her own safety, finding courage in the face of immediate danger and unavoidable consequences. Why? Because she was confident that God was on the other side of the Jordan. Because of what she did, Rahab’s name is included in Hebrew’s Hall of Faith (Heb. 11:31). After the threat passed, Rahab’s conversation with the spies revealed her true heart. She had heard how Yahweh promised the land that her people occupied, how He dried up the water of the Red Sea, and how He helped the Israelites destroy the kings east of the Jordan (vv. 9–10). With their futures unknown, both Rahab and the Israelites trusted the Lord with what awaited them on the other side (vv. 12–16). >> Does your future seem uncertain? Maybe the way ahead is cloudy for you, your family, or the people you lead. But even though you do not know what the future holds, you know the One who holds your future. Share your concerns with Him today.
Being selected to follow an outstanding leader can be difficult, if not downright impossible. How do you prevent comparisons? The book of Joshua begins with news that would have made headlines for weeks: “Moses my servant is dead” (v. 2). Without a doubt, it was the topic of conversation at every dinner table. But while Moses’ life may have been over, God’s commitment to the Israelites was not. Joshua most likely had a hunch that he would take up the mantle of leadership. But that did not mean he felt confident. Even Moses’ second- in-command suffered from impostor syndrome and wondered if he was the right person for the job. God continually reminded Joshua that he would not be alone (v. 5). Notice in Joshua 1, that three times God commands Joshua to be “strong and courageous” (vv. 6, 7, 9). God also assures victory: “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life” (v. 5). The Lord reminded Joshua that he should follow Moses’ example in trusting and obeying the Book of the Law (vv. 7–8). God commanded Joshua to meditate on the Torah day and night. Having God’s Word continually on his mind and lips would not guarantee that his life and leadership would be without struggle. But knowing God’s Word would give him strength and courage, helping Joshua overcome significant challenges. Leaders who replace legends sometimes fall into the trap of trying to prove themselves. But the answer doesn’t lie within us. Instead, God wants His appointed leaders to trust that if they are faithful to Him, He will continue to be faithful to them. He gives them courage to lead. >> One way to be a godly leader is to keep God’s Word always on your lips and your mind. Consider some of the daily verses from this month’s study to memorize. Commit to memorizing them so you can recall them when you face difficult moments.
In the most despicable and wicked manner, the Amalekites attacked the Israelites from the rear, focusing on attacking the women, children, and elderly (Deut. 25:17–18). The Israelites had never experienced a battle before. Yahweh fought the Egyptians for them. But in today’s text, the Lord was teaching the Israelites to rely on the Lord and take matters into their own hands. Moses tasked Joshua with recruiting men, and he then climbed to the top of the hill with his brother Aaron and his brother-in-law Hur. At the top of the hill, they could clearly see the battle, they were visible to their soldiers, but most importantly, they could pray (v. 10). The phrase, “as long as Moses held up his hands,” describes the Israelites’ posture of prayer (v. 11). If he kept praying, the Israelites kept winning. However, while a battle raged in the valley, a war also raged within Moses. Having a strong prayer life does not come naturally. Moses became physically weak after holding up his hands for hours, but Aaron and Hur supported him physically, emotionally, and spiritually (v. 12). In this passage, we see four unlikely leaders. Joshua had never fought in a battle, but he recruited men and led them into action (vv. 9–10). Aaron and Hur were true servant-leaders (v. 12). Their support of Moses resembles that of the athlete who carries their injured teammate across the finish line. And Moses led by lifting his hands and prayers to the Lord for victory over the Amalekites and saving his people. It is an excellent reminder that many years later, another unlikely Leader would climb to a hill for all to see, stretch out His hands, physically suffer for all humanity, cry out to the Father, and win the victory over sin and Satan. >> No matter where or how you lead, you haven’t gotten to it alone. There have been others who helped you on your journey. Today, pray for them and remind them that they played an important role in your life.
A well-known comedian observed that the number-one fear for most Americans is speaking in public, while the second fear is death, which means that at a funeral, people would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy. There is some truth to this humor. Having the right words at the right time can be challenging. We fear offending others or embarrassing ourselves. We aren’t the only ones to be timid with our tongues. You may picture Moses as a courageous, Charlton Heston-type leader with a booming voice, leading the Israelites out of the oppressive stronghold of Pharaoh. But Exodus 4 gives us a different perspective. Moses was someone we wouldn’t initially expect to be a leader. Our text falls in the middle of his conversation with God. Moses was giving excuse after excuse, trying to get out of God’s command to go before Pharaoh. His final protest to the Lord points to his speech impediment, which he claimed would hinder God’s message (v. 10). The Lord gave Moses a quick theologically based biology lesson and concluded by saying, “Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say” (v. 12). This excuse set aside, Moses finally revealed why he didn’t want to go: he was terrified (v. 13). The main issue wasn’t his lack of ability but his lack of faith and unwillingness to try. God was angry not with Moses’ questions but with his resistance. However, the Lord did not give up on this unlikely leader. Instead, He offered help through Moses’ brother, Aaron (vv. 14–16). Yahweh taught Moses that being a leader could be intimidating, especially when you have to speak in front of others, but God would give His people the right words at the right time. >> Do you fear leading others because you fear to speak in public? The next time you have an important conversation, presentation, speech, or sermon, remember that while you are fearful, God will help you speak and teach you what to say.
For nearly ten years, lawyer Randy Schoenberg represented Austrian Maria Altmann in her quest to recover her family’s paintings that had been stolen by the Nazis during World War II. The exquisite paintings, valued at more than $325 million, were discovered in museums where they had been displayed for decades. Schoenberg persisted on Altmann’s behalf, appealing to many judges, including the U.S. Supreme Court, before winning her case. In Genesis 18, we find Abraham in a bargaining conversation with the Lord. Sodom and Gomorrah were the “Sin Cities” of the day. The mercy cries of the oppressed and powerless had reached the ears of the Lord (vv. 20– 21). God was on the verge of pouring out another round of destruction. But before God punished Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham courageously pled their case (v. 22). Even though the Scriptures do not explicitly mention Lot, Abraham’s nephew and his family was most likely on his mind, since they were still in Sodom. The premise of Abraham’s argument to the Lord was: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” (v. 23). Beginning with 50 and working his way down to ten, Abraham witnessed the Lord’s mercy and goodness in one hypothetical measurement at a time. Using the skills of an experienced arbitrator, he interceded for the righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham’s intervention before God on behalf of the righteous may remind you of the way Jesus has intervened for us! Centuries later, Jesus would stand before the Father to intercede for our deliverance from death and destruction (Rom. 8:34). >> For whom can you intercede today? As a godly leader, you may be asked to stand up for the rights of another. And certainly, we can intercede for them through prayer. Using Abraham as a model, pray for those you know who are lost and need the Savior.
Do you ever yearn for adventure? For some this might mean a winding road trip and camping out under the stars. For others it means trying exotic foods or exploring a new city. Most of us find it exciting to go where we’ve never gone before. In Genesis 12, God told another one of His unlikely leaders to venture into the unknown. Even better, God promised that the entire world would be blessed one day through him and his journey. In Genesis 12, we read how God began a new relationship with humanity. The troubled days of Noah were over, and God wanted to restore the relationship, He once had with His creation before sin entered the world. The Lord chose Abram and took him on an unexpected journey that would demonstrate to the world that He is God. Yahweh commanded Abram to leave Harran, his people, and his extended family (v. 1). Leaving the known and entering the unknown would have been terrifying. Abram had no smart device to help him navigate the terrain. He couldn’t Google the best ways to stay out of danger on the trip. All he had (and all he needed) was a promise from the Lord Almighty. God promised to make Abram’s offspring into a great nation with a great name (v. 2). Abram was not venturing into the unknown to fulfill his craving to explore. Instead, he was obeying what the Lord commanded him to do. God promised that not only would Abram and his family be blessed (v. 2), but the entire world would be blessed through him (v. 3). Did you catch that? The promise God made to Abram was not just to him and his family, but to everyone, including you and me. >> What adventure might God be calling you to take? You can trust God that when He places a task on your heart, He will provide everything you need to accomplish it. God wants to use leaders like you to bless others.
Ask any farmer, and they will tell you the word they fear the most is drought. Without rain, their crops and livelihood are in peril. Farmers plant their crops with hope that rain will come soon. But a couple of seasons of drought, sprinkled with a period of doubt, is a combination even the most optimistic farmer never wants to face. When rain does come it is viewed as a blessing, restoring life to the withered land. In Genesis 6, we learn that humanity had reached an all-time low. Wickedness and evil were running wild. “The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time” (v. 5). He resolved to cross everything out and start over (v. 7). Scripture tells us that as God looked at the darkness of the world, He saw a flickering light of hope. One man found favor in His eyes: Noah (v. 8). Many biblical scholars assert that before the Flood, there had been decades of no rain except the occasional mist, fog, or morning dew. Because humans had never experienced rain, God’s command to build an ark would have seemed ludicrous. But Noah was righteous, “blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God” (v. 9). He did everything as God commanded (v. 22). Have you walked through times when the road before you seemed impossible? How would God work during those seasons of drought and doubt? God needs leaders who will follow Him even when everyone else turns away. >> If you have ever trusted God during difficult times, you may be precisely the type of leader God wants to use. Even if you are in a difficult season, God can still use you for His purposes. Leadership takes patience, waiting on others, and waiting on God.
What do you look for in a leader? For generations, God’s people hoped for a leader to take them into battle. They wanted a problem-solver, winner-take-all, charismatic leader. Instead, God gave someone they did not expect...His Son Jesus. In direct contrast to the characteristics of popular leaders then (and now), Jesus was known for humility. In Philippians 2, Paul focuses on the need for the Philippians to complete his joy by being united. Paul knew that if Christians were to live a worthy life (1:27–30), they had to turn from “selfish ambition or vain conceit” (2:3) and be unified through having the same mind, same love, and being one in spirit and purpose (v. 2). This is a leadership task easier said than done! Ask any coach, CEO, or mother about the challenges of getting everyone on the same page and united with one another. Paul’s solution was learned from Jesus: Lead through humility. We know that humility means considering others above ourselves (v. 4). But humility is easier to define than to do. Paul Paul points to the ultimate example of humility, the Lord Jesus Himself (vv. 5–11). Many scholars label these verses as the “Hymn of Christ.” Experts believe early Christians sang or recited these words during worship gatherings. The poem touches on Christ’s preexistence, incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension. These verses are rich in theology, but we should not miss Paul’s purpose in penning these words. He wants the Philippians to be united, and the only way they will ever accomplish that is to model their lives after Jesus. As we examine the lives of unlikely leaders in Scripture, you will find that they all exhibit humility. As we put interests of others before ourselves, we too can be an influential leader for Christ. >> You may not realize it, but you are a leader. God wants you to be His representative as you unite the people you work with and live alongside them. Lead like Jesus through humility.
As we conclude our study of 1 Kings, you may wonder if anyone in a power position is ever worthy of the title. This book records a history filled with defeat and disappointment. There are bright spots indeed, but overall, this was a dark time in Israel’s history. The kingdom Saul founded and David expanded, declined under the leadership of David’s descendants and their rivals. Even the few righteous among them were not strong enough to turn the nation back to faithful worship. Where does that leave us? We must remember the promise God made to David: “Your throne will be established forever” (2 Sam. 7:16). God’s commitment to an eternal throne for a descendant of David is established here as we watch Him work through the reigns of human and fallible leaders in 1 Kings. Recall when David challenged his son Solomon with these words: “If your sons pay close attention to their way, to walk before me in faithfulness with all their heart and with all their soul, you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.” (1 Kings 2:4). Against this backdrop of wickedness, compromise, and faithlessness, we see the steadfast commitment of God to His people and His promise. Even at the height of their sinfulness, God never abandoned them but worked to bring Israel back to Himself. When the people gave into false worship, God gave them leaders who would fail them so they would long for His righteous leadership and for a leader committed to righteousness. The prophet Jeremiah, who followed this period, recalled this promise and it encouraged him at a time when Jerusalem was about to be completely destroyed. “For thus says the LORD: David shall never lack a man to sit on the throne of the house of Israel” (Jer. 33:17). >> As believers, we know that Jesus, the Son of David, is the final fulfillment of God’s perfect plan. We don’t put our trust in earthly kings, but in the righteous Leader who laid down His life so we will enjoy fellowship in the kingdom of God forever.
Where we go for information reveals whom we trust. Children turn to their parents instinctively. Researchers consult the most reputable journals. Scientists use the best instruments. When Ahaziah was in trouble, his choice was to consult Baal. Why did the new king consider Baal to be the best source of information about his future? Today’s passage spans the gap between 1 and 2 Kings with the story of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son. His introductory biography informs us that he was wicked in the ways of his father and mother, and he also behaved like Jeroboam, the king who built the golden calves at Bethel and Dan. First Kings ends there, but Ahaziah’s story does not. The division here is probably not original. It is quite possible that these two books would have been written on one scroll in ancient times. So, if you keep reading into 2 Kings, you’ll see Ahaziah’s story continue. Here we discover that Ahaziah was seriously injured in a fall. His injury was significant enough that he feared for his life and sought divine counsel. Like so many before him, the king did not seek God, but instead the counsel of Baal! Even after all that had happened to Ahab, his father, Ahaziah had not learned his lesson. So God, in His mercy, took steps yet again, to show Israel the He is in control and worthy of their undivided worship. The angel of the Lord, spoke to Elijah and sent him to confront Ahaziah with an insightful question: “Is it because there is no God in Israel for you to consult that you have sent messengers to consult Baal-Zebub, the god of Ekron?” (2 Kings 1:3). The question is penetrating. >> Ahab’s decision to consult Baal implied that he thought of God as unreliable, or even worse, not God at all! What do your choices say about your view of God? Do they reveal Him to be totally trustworthy? Or do they suggest that your trust lies elsewhere?
When someone has an effective way with words, we say they have a silver tongue or are a slick talker. Both phrases could be used to describe King Ahab. In yesterday’s reading, the Israelite king persuaded his Judean ally Jehoshaphat to put on his royal robes and join him in battle, while Ahab disguised himself as an average soldier (22:30). The enemy mistakenly identified Jehoshaphat as Ahab and pursued him (22:32). This decision almost cost him his life! You might think that this near- death experience would cause the godly king to reevaluate his relationship with wicked kings. But Jehoshaphat continued to ally himself with those who hated the Lord. At that time the balance of power between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah was tilted in the favor of the north. Israel possessed more territory, and under the leadership of Omri and Ahab had become more prosperous. This might explain why a righteous king like Jehoshaphat would make peace with Ahab (v. 44). He wanted the benefits that would come from this alliance. That alliance almost cost him his life. So, it may surprise us to read in today’s passage, that Jehoshaphat made the same mistake again, allying himself with Ahab’s wicked son, in a business venture. A plain reading of 1 Kings suggests that Jehoshaphat built ships, they were destroyed, and then he rejected Ahaziah’s offer. But comparing this story with the account in 2 Chronicles 20:35–37 suggests that Jehoshaphat accepts Ahaziah’s offer at first. Only after the ships were destroyed did he reject a second offer to try again, but with Ahaziah’s men aboard. Jehoshaphat’s craving for recognition led him into compromising alliances. >> While God’s people exist in this world, we are warned not to build close alliances with unbelievers (2 Cor. 6:14–15). Have you considered how your wants and desires lead you to compromise with those who are enemies of God? Are you putting yourself at risk?
In The Wizard of Oz, Toto draws back a curtain only to discover that the Great and Powerful Oz is just an ordinary man speaking into a microphone. In 1 Kings 22, we are given a look behind the curtain, to see God in action. Who is running the show in Israel? As we draw near to the end of 1 Kings, we might begin to wonder if God is going to resolve the difficulties facing His people. Does He have a plan? These are questions the faithful in Israel faced during the reign of Ahab. Today’s passage pulls the curtain back just a bit to give a view behind the scenes. The word from Micaiah, the prophet of the Lord, was not encouraging. While the prophets of Baal predicted Ahab’s victory, God’s prophet told of his death. Micaiah described a boardroom scene in heaven. At the head of the table, sat the Lord on His throne with one agenda item. “Who will entice Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his death there?” (v. 20). Or to put it another way, “How can we get Ahab to the battlefield so that he dies?” God would compel the false prophets to lie to Ahab. This is a fascinating scene. He was in total control of this situation. The message so rattled Ahab that he disguised himself as he rode out to the battlefield (v. 30). He hoped to thwart God’s plan, but his clever attempts failed. An archer fired his bow at “random” and the king died. Rest assured that even when you do not see His hand, God is at work. >> How often do we doubt that God is really working in the difficult situations in our world, our community, even our families? Today’s reading humbles us to recognize that we serve an all- powerful God who is working all things together for His purpose.
Psychologists have a term called “cognitive dissonance”—when what a person believes contradicts what they do. For example, a person may say they want to avoid debt, but then apply for a third credit card. The level of dissonance grows when belief and actions are far apart. Ahab’s heart had been trained by years of idol worship and the influence of his wife, Jezebel. Would he learn from his errors? Sadly, no. His behavior was deeply ingrained and manifested in the way he ran his kingdom. Three years after his confrontation with God, Ahab started another war, this time to retake the territory Israel had lost to the Syrians. His ally, Jehoshaphat of Judah, advised him to seek God’s counsel (v. 7). Instead, Ahab turned to false prophets. As you would expect, they predicted victory. Their main goal was to find favor with the king. While Ahab employed hundreds of false prophets, he also kept one true prophet of the Lord on staff! We need to pause here and consider this contradiction. Ahab must have suffered from great cognitive dissonance. On the one hand he worshiped Baal, on the other hand he kept a prophet of God alive. What could cause him to live in such a contradictory manner? Ahab wanted to have “his cake and eat it too.” The prophets of Baal told him what he wanted to hear, while the prophet of God told him the truth. He did not like that truth. Like a petulant child Ahab declared, “There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad” (v. 8). >> It is easy to be shocked by Ahab, but we can act the same way. We say we believe in God but live in disobedience. As a believer, allowing sin in our life conflicts our mind. Consider where you might be trying to have it both ways in your relationship with the Lord.
If you’ve ever held a pity party for yourself, you aren’t alone. It is easy to get so wrapped up in our own emotions and our own feelings. Even worse, we can let those emotions hurt others. In 1 Kings 21, we find King Ahab feeling very sorry for himself. After God rebuked Ahab for letting the enemy king go (see 1 Kings 20), Ahab returned to his palace in Jezreel. To console himself he tried to purchase a plot of land near his palace that belonged to Naboth. But Naboth wouldn’t sell it, saying: “The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my ancestors” (v. 3). Ahab “lay on his bed sulking and refused to eat” (v. 4). His wife Jezebel took matters into her own hands. She reminded Ahab that he was king of Israel (v. 7) and promised to get the land for him. She did so by having Naboth killed (v. 9). Why didn’t Ahab just take that land? Although Ahab was king, Israelite kings were not permitted to reign the way other rulers did in the ancient Near East. In Deuteronomy 17:14–20, God declared that Israelite kings were subject to the Mosaic law just like everyone else. This meant they had to respect property rights. “You shall not steal” (Ex. 20:15) applied to them as well. Jezebel was not Israelite; she was Sidonian. Jezebel had no hesitations about violating God’s law. So, she had Naboth killed and stole his vineyard. Ahab did not stop her. The prophet Elijah delivered a strong rebuke from the Lord: “I am going to bring disaster on you” (v. 21). And then a curious thing happened. King Ahab repented. After such an ugly sin, it may surprise us that the Lord accepted Ahab’s repentance and delayed the punishment He promised. >> This shocking story teaches us about God. We see His power, His sovereignty, His knowledge, and His mercy. As wicked as Ahab was, his repentance was accepted by God. What do we need to repent of today?
Have you ever heard someone say, “You believe what you want, and I’ll believe what I want. We are both right”? As Christians, our belief that God is the one and only true God, directly contradicts the all-gods-are-equal philosophy. In 1 Kings 20, God’s people were battling the Syrians, a conflict that challenged not just political borders, but also the character of God. In the ancient world, gods were understood to control the borders of the country where they were worshiped. Each nation had its own deity, and while they acknowledged that other gods existed, local deities had homefield advantage, so to speak. This explains why after their loss in the first battle, the Syrians changed their strategy. They reasoned that because the Israelites lived in a mountainous region, their god gave them victory over the battle in the mountains. But their gods were worshiped in the plains, so if they battled there, they would claim victory (v. 23). This logic contradicted the theology of Israel. Through Moses, God revealed that He was god not just of the mountains, but of the entire world. Yahweh had no rival. Defeating Israel would not result from better strategy or battling on a different field. Israel would lose only if God gave them over to defeat. God said, “I will deliver this vast army into your hands, and you will know that I am the LORD” (v. 28). The previous victory proved that God had the power to defeat Israel’s enemies. This victory over Syria proved that God’s power was not limited to one region (v. 29). God’s power is everywhere! Ahab didn’t get the message. He immediately pardoned the Syrian king (v. 34). But the truth had been told. God’s people might long for a powerful righteous leader, but there was no need to long for a powerful, righteous god. They already knew Him. >> No matter how powerful the enemy, no matter what the circumstance, our God is victorious.
Who do you look to when you need help? When we were children, we thought our parents could always save the day. But as adults, we realize that our parents or our boss cannot solve every problem we encounter. Their power is limited. In 1 Kings 18, we saw a clear demonstration of God’s supremacy over Baal. Not only could God’s people look to Him for help, but He alone had the character and power to deliver them. Today’s story illustrates this again. While most of us would have given up on King Ahab, God extended mercy and delivered him from an enemy. Ben-Hadad, king of Aram (Syria), had attacked Israel, besieging Samaria (v. 1). His army was so powerful that he made outrageous demands of Ahab (vv. 2–5). He boasted: “Your silver and gold are mine, and the best of your wives and children are mine” (v. 3). During the panic that ensued, the Lord sent a prophet to Ahab with encouragement and instructions. His message: “Do you see this vast army? I will give it into your hands today, and then you will know that I am the LORD” (v. 13). Although Ahab and the nation set their hearts against the God of Israel, God wouldn’t let them go. Instead, He continued to display His power to them in tangible way so that they would realize that He, not Baal, was in control. These physical displays of God’s power were meant to bolster Israel’s faith! In obedience, the Israelites launched a counterattack, and the Syrians were defeated. They would win the next battle as well, and, although Ahab failed to follow through on his victory, Gods glory was displayed for the nation. They knew that God was with them. Now, why wouldn’t they listen? >> We need this reminder in our own lives. The God we serve is the only One who has the ultimate power. When we are faced with impossible situations, our first thought should be to call on Him!
If you are discouraged, today’s Bible reading is one you need to hear. We meet up with God’s prophet Elijah after the victory on Mt. Carmel. What an incredible day it was! God showed up in power, and the false prophets were defeated. Then why was Elijah so discouraged? Anyone would expect that after God’s power was so clearly displayed, the people of Israel would have thrown Ahab and Jezebel out of the palace. Instead, Jezebel issued orders for the prophet’s assassination forcing Elijah to flee for his life (v. 3). When Elijah thought he was far enough away from his nemesis, he sat under a tree and lamented his existence (v. 4). His response is understandable. Who hasn’t been there? When faced with impossible circumstances, we ask, “Lord, I did what You wanted and I thought it would work out well, but the opposite happened. Why?!” Elijah was so discouraged he asked God to take his life (v. 4). But in the face of the prophet’s doubt, we see the patience of the Lord. God fed Elijah, and gave him time to rest, before telling him to keep moving. Forty days later God met him at a cave on Mt. Sinai. After allowing Elijah to vent his frustrations, God confronted him with the truth: I have a plan that you do not know about. God would anoint a new king in Syria, which meant God was at work beyond the borders of Israel. It meant Elijah would anoint Jehu as the next king over Israel, and Ahab would be dethroned. Finally, it meant anointing Elisha as his replacement, which meant God would not abandon Israel! If Elijah wondered who would be around to see all this, God reminded him that at least 7,000 people had not compromised themselves with Baal worship! >> Faced with the impossible, Elijah felt hopeless. He could only see things from his perspective. How might you be doing the same thing in your life? Do you need God’s perspective? Spend time in God’s presence today.
While we might not witness outright idol worship in modern society, we do see people put their faith in unusual sources. Superstition haunts the sporting world. An athlete might wear the same hat or even the same pair of socks, hoping to ensure a winning streak. But is this trust warranted? Today’s reading in 1 Kings 18 marks a high point of the book: a confrontation between God and His people. The confrontation is not between Elijah and Ahab, or even Elijah and the prophets of Baal, but between Yahweh and His people. Elijah is the focal point, but his message is from God. “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; if Baal is God, follow him,” the prophet asks (v. 21). The site is a mountain range east of Samaria, likely a high place for Baal worship. Here, Elijah threw down the challenge: You call for Baal and I’ll call upon Yahweh, whoever answers by fire is God! The prophets of Baal went first. After hours of praying, crying out, and ritual cutting, nothing. No fire, no voice, nothing. Elijah took his turn and after preparing an altar and sacrifice in the acceptable manner, he doused everything in water. Then he prayed. “Answer me, LORD, so these people may know that you, LORD, are God and that you are turning their hearts back again” (v. 37). In response, the fire of the Lord fell. The people were answered, and God’s power was clearly demonstrated. Even during this time of great suffering, God never abandoned His people. He used punishment to soften their hearts and appeared to them in indisputable ways. >> Today, we have front-row seats to the heart of a loving God drawing His people back to Himself. The confrontation was dramatic. The people acknowledged the authority of God—but would they continue to listen? How about us? Faced with the reality of God, are we ready to listen and to obey?
If someone threatened your life, what would you do? Some people would flee while others might give up. We all like to think that we would take a brave stand against the enemy. While the prophet Elijah may have thought he was the only follower of the Lord being pursued by wicked King Ahab, the truth was that there was someone else serving behind enemy lines, a man named Obadiah (vv. 3–4). Obadiah was a faithful Israelite who did not worship Baal but worked for Ahab and Jezebel! The text describes him as “palace administrator” so his job would have put him near the rulers (v. 3). He had a front row seat to their wicked policies. One of those policies involved killing God’s prophets (v. 4). Soon we will learn that Ahab and Jezebel replaced the prophets of Yahweh with their own state-sponsored prophets of Baal and Asherah. The purge involved the death of many faithful servants of God. At great risk to himself, Obadiah worked to save 100 of them by hiding them in caves (v. 4). The faithful prophet preserved their lives. What motivated Obadiah to stand against the tide when everyone else around him had fallen under the sway of Baal worship? What caused him to take such a risk and openly defy an order of the king? Obadiah said, “If I go and tell Ahab and he doesn’t find you, he will kill me” (v. 12). Yet, he obeyed because he worshipped the Lord. As powerful as Ahab and Jezebel might have been, Yahweh was more powerful. Obadiah’s fear of God enabled him to be fearless in the face of wickedness. >> Living in what many are calling a post-biblical culture may inspire fear or nervousness in us. We may be tempted to be quiet and keep our beliefs private. But God’s people are not called to cower in fear. How can your knowledge of God motivate you to stand up for righteousness?
There are many things in life that the modern world has learned to control. We can genetically modify crops. We are able stop disease. We can explore outer space. But we have yet to resurrect people from the dead! While it is true that we can sometimes resuscitate a dying person, after a certain point, even our highest medical skills fail. That That is what makes resurrection such an overwhelming display of God’s power. After demonstrating His ability to care for His own prophet Elijah, by miraculously providing food for him and a widow, God creates another opportunity to declare He has power over life and death, and not Baal. The son of the widow He just helped became ill and died suddenly. The woman interpreted this event as a punishment for some sin she had committed. Elijah took a different approach. Taking the child in his arms, he brought him before the Lord and asked for his life back (v. 21). Our modern minds struggle with this. Once death has come, we understand that there is no going back. There is nothing we can do! Yet in this Scripture passage we see that God’s power has not been exhausted. The Creator of the universe has total control over everyone and everything, including life and death. Elijah prays to God, knowing what He can do! The child comes back to life, and his mother declares, “Now I know that you are a man of God, and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is truth” (v. 24). Elijah’s credibility was established along with the power of God! This will be important as Elijah challenges God’s people to make a choice: Baal or Yahweh. >> Do you believe that God holds all power over life and death and everything in it? We may say that we hold this belief, but we often act as if outcomes are up to us. Today’s reading challenges us to place our most critical moments into the hands of the Creator of the universe.
In the 1930s, the Dust Bowl battered the southern plains of the United States. High winds and choking dust were sweeping across farmland from Texas to Nebraska for nearly six years, killing people and livestock and devastating crops. In 1 Kings 17, we read that a devastating drought had come to Israel. The prophet Elijah explains that this was ordered by God (v. 1). As a result of the idolatrous practices of Ahab and Jezebel, Israel had come to believe that Baal controlled the essential elements of life: the rain, the fertility of land, man and beast, life and death. They knew the one true God, yet they had abandoned Him. In response, God took steps to bring His people back to Himself. First, He raised up a prophet, Elijah, and second, He stopped the rain. Israel had seen prophets before, but stopping the rain was new. Yet it was a fulfillment of a threat God made in the covenant at Sinai (Deut. 11:16–17). The lack of rain demonstrated that God was in control of all things. They had been warned in love, now they would experience His discipline. But the Lord also provided a prophet to point the people back to Him. Elijah would call the people to repentance and faithfulness. God’s care for Elijah by providing water and bread is not only a miracle, but also points to His loving care (vv. 4–5). He saw the prophet’s condition and cared for him. In addition, we see the faith of the widow at Zarephath who would give the smallest bit she had in obedience to God. In return, she also witnessed a miracle—“there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family” (v. 15). >> God’s provision for Elijah and the widow, even in the midst of a drought, is a beautiful example of how He cares for us. God sees your need. He loves you. He will provide for you.
In his article, “Evolving Ideas of Sin,” Rich Barlow observes: “’Sin’ is in the eye of the beholder, and our society is richly multiperspectival: we don’t have a single definition of anything, ‘sin’ included.” What happens when we do not believe God defines right and wrong? We see the answer in the life of King Ahab. During his 22-year reign “Ahab son of Omri did more evil in the eyes of the LORD than any of those before him” (v. 30). After marrying Jezebel, a Sidonian princess, Ahab formally sanctioned Baal worship in Israel. Jezebel was a Baal worshiper and Ahab supported her to the point of constructing a shrine for Baal and an Asherah pole (vv. 32–33). It is hard to ignore the impact of this moment on Israel’s history. The nation was teetering on a knife edge. None of its kings had been righteous—not a single one! Its history had been characterized by violence, chaos, and increasing theological drift. Now their king was partnering with his wife to draw Israel into worship of a rival deity. Baal was worshiped by the nations in the eastern Mediterranean, in particular the Canaanites and Phoenicians. They believed Baal controlled life, fertility, the weather, and more. They worshiped him in ceremonies and activities that were an affront to the God of Israel. This was one of the religions God commanded Israel to eradicate. They failed to do so during the days of the judges and now Baal worship was becoming a regular part of life. These were dark days indeed. It is no surprise that God would take extraordinary measures to bring His people back to him! >> We don’t talk a great deal about evil in our modern world. We tend to see things in shades of gray, rather than black and white. But God has clearly stated what is right and what is wrong. We should learn from Ahab’s example never to compromise when it comes to sin.
In 1846 Austen Henry Layard discovered the Black Obelisk which contained the earliest known depictions of a biblical figure. It depicts King Jehu, described as a son of Omri. The monument was carved by the Assyrians and found far from the land of Israel. Why would the name Omri be known beyond Israel’s borders? Omri was famous, but for all the wrong reasons. Omri became king during civil conflict which split Israel into “two factions” (v. 21). When the previous king was assassinated, half of the country followed Omri, while the other half followed Tibni. When Omri’s faction overtook his opponent, he became king over both divisions. During his reign, Israel’s power expanded beyond its borders. He established Samaria as the capital city until it was destroyed in 722 BC (v. 24). The country he left to his son was recognized as a military power. Yet for all his fame, Omri was wicked, and his 12-year reign was summarized in just eight verses. The judgment is that “he sinned more than all those before him” (v. 25). What did he do? He followed in the sins of Jeroboam (v. 26). Decades after Jeroboam built the golden calves at Bethel and Dan, they were still a temptation to the kings who followed him. Once again God’s people turned to “worthless idols” (v. 26). Though Omri was a stabilizing figure for Israel in many respects, his soul was rotten. He may have been renowned across the ancient Near East, but to God who put him on the throne, his reign was noted for its evil acts. >> What would you like to be known for? In our modern society, being known or influential is a highly prized characteristic. We spend a great deal of time trying to get people to notice and admire us. But it is important to remember that while people look on our outer reputation, God sees our heart (1 Sam. 16:7).
We would like to think that we learn from our mistakes. Unfortunately, we often repeat them again and again. In 1 Kings, we witness a generational chain of sin where no one seemed to learn from failures. In chapter 15, after the story of Asa, our attention is directed back to the Kingdom of Israel. Jeroboam’s son, Nadab, had risen to the throne, but he was wicked, following the practices of his father and leading Israel astray (v. 25). As a result, Baasha, from Issachar, assassinated him and his entire household. This was God’s judgment for erecting the golden calves (12:28). Baasha, who replaced Nadab, was wicked as well, and God condemned him for squandering the opportunity and leading like Jeroboam (15:33–34). The king led the people to sin (16:2). For this, Baasha’s entire line would be extinguished. This might seem especially harsh, but leaders have a critical role to play in the lives of their followers. Those who lead others to violate the first commandment are to be held accountable. But the problems didn’t stop there! Baasha’s son, Elah, would reign two years (v. 8) before he too was assassinated by Zimri who went on to destroy Baasha’s entire line. Eventually, Zimri was assassinated by Omri, after reigning for just seven days (v. 15). With Zimri dead, half of the nation followed Tibni while the rest followed Omri. Eventually, Tibni was killed and Omri was crowned king. He would rule for 12 years. What should we learn from this period of instability and chaos? First, we see the far-reaching consequence of Jeroboam’s sins. The decision to turn from the Lord led to complete chaos. But we must remember that while God was disciplining them, He had not abandoned them. >> Are you experiencing chaos? Ask God to reveal to you any sin that needs confessing. Once you are right with God, lean on His promised faithfulness and know that He is with you, even in times of confusion. We have a righteous leader in King Jesus.
Little children will sometimes reject help, insisting, “I can do this all by myself.” While a desire for independence can be admirable, it became a problem for King Asa. Asa had taken over for Abijah as King of Judah, and we may sigh with relief that he was a righteous ruler! His zeal to follow the Lord led to religious reform for the whole nation. He disciplined his own mother because she was worshiping an idol and reestablished Temple worship. While Asa did not eradicate every single high place, he never drifted into idolatry himself. So it is a bit of a surprise when we read that “there was war between Asa and Baasha all their days” (v. 16). War is usually a sign something is wrong. Baasha, king of the northern tribe of Israel, had invaded the southern territory, blocking the roads in and out of Jerusalem. King Asa had two options. One: Cry out to God and ask for help. Or two: Look for a political solution. Asa chose option 2. He used all the treasures from the Temple and his storehouses to buy a treaty with the wicked king of Syria. Syria would attack Baasha creating a two-front war and Baasha would be forced to leave Jerusalem alone. The plan worked! Or did it? In 2 Chronicles 16, we read that the Lord was not pleased with Asa’s decision. Why? Because he trusted in the strength of a foreign king rather than in God Himself (2 Chron. 16:7). By using his wealth to secure peace, Asa was not relying on God’s help. Paying off his enemy to defend him betrayed a lack of faith in God and a reliance on his own wealth (Deut. 17:14–20). >> Doing it ourselves isn’t always the best option. Sometimes we forget that the first place to turn to is God. Asa gave in to the temptation to trust himself and his riches. Where have you placed your trust for your security?
When someone says you take after your father (or your mother), it is usually a compliment. That was not the case for King Abijah. He gets just eight verses to describe his three- year reign over Judah in Jerusalem. He is characterized as a wicked king who followed his father Rehoboam’s example. As a result, he did not enjoy peace; he experienced war with the kingdom of Israel. While we might have expected God to punish Abijah, he is protected by David’s legacy. While Abijah and the nation were worthy of severe judgment for breaking the first and second commandments, God withheld extreme punishment because of David’s faithfulness! (v. 4). David wasn’t perfect; this chapter acknowledges that explicitly. But the writer describes him as not failing to “keep any of the LORD’s commands all the days of his life” (v. 5). Because of this wonderful legacy, even though David’s descendants were often wicked, God showed them mercy. In the northern kingdom, on the other hand, Jeroboam’s sin brought the immediate promise of exile (1 Kings 14:15). Why this special treatment for Judah? It was a result of God’s commitment to David as expressed in the Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7). It is true that David left a wonderful legacy of obedience, but, more importantly, God made David a promise, “your house and your kingdom will be made sure forever before me. Your throne will be established forever” (2 Sam. 7:16). God kept His promises, despite the sin of David’s successors. What did that commitment look like? When Abijah died, his son Asa inherited the throne, and he, like his great, great, great grandfather David, was a righteous king! Behold the mercy of the God. >> On this Mother’s Day, we give thanks for the important women in our lives. We thank God for mothers who have shown us the Lord’s love and guided us in His truth. May they feel especially loved and appreciated!
Parents will often discipline their children by temporarily taking away something they love. For example, a child might not be allowed to play a favorite video game or go to a friend’s house after school. The loss is intended to teach an important lesson. In 1 Kings 14, we see God’s discipline of a king and his kingdom. Under Rehoboam’s rule the nation followed in the footsteps of his father and violated the first commandment, worshiping other gods. It is important to note that this behavior characterized the nation, not just the king. Rehoboam set an example and his people followed. But they didn’t need to be led astray, they were already prepared to disobey. Punishment came quickly. Five years after Rehoboam took the throne, Shishak, king of Egypt, attacked Jerusalem and raided the Temple. “He took everything” (1 Kings 14:26). It didn’t have to be this way. Rehoboam could have made a different choice. He responded poorly to the discipline of the Lord. The division of the kingdom was part of God’s plan, but he rejected it. Instead of letting the punishment turn him back to God, he allowed it to drive him further away. This is the first of many times that the Temple in Jerusalem would be raided, before it was finally destroyed in 586 BC. Why would God allow His “house” to be desecrated this way? Wouldn’t He want to defend His honor? Does this scene say anything about God’s character? Yes, it does! It says that He does not dwell in a house made with hands. Although a Temple was a source of national pride, it was entirely expendable if it prevented people from being faithful to God. The point of this discipline was to make the nation wake up from its idolatrous stupor. >> Sometimes things are removed from our lives, perhaps a job or a friendship. The loss jolts us out of complacency. What might God be teaching us through this loss? Perhaps it reminds us that our first allegiance is only to Him.
Jeroboam had been given a golden ticket! He had been chosen by God to lead the ten tribes of Israel. Confronted by a prophet in chapter 11, Jeroboam was informed that if he obeyed, God would be with him and build him a house like He did for David. What an amazing opportunity! Now, with the ten tribes under his control, Jeroboam’s heart would be tested. The test would not be war, famine, or crisis. Rather, it would be a test of faith. Would Jeroboam believe what God told him or would he give into fear and try to guarantee his future on his own? In chapter 12 we find Jeroboam pondering a question. What would happen if year after year the citizens of his country traveled to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem? He suspected that sooner, rather than later, he would be pushed off the throne as the kingdoms rejoined (v. 27). The ingredient Jeroboam failed to include in his recipe of doubt, was God’s promise! The kingdom was his. His to enjoy, or his to lose. All he had to do was obey. So, it is disappointing to see Jeroboam choose to protect his throne in a way that disobeyed God and led his people astray (vv. 28 30). Jeroboam decided to build two shrines in his kingdom, one at Dan at the northern border of his kingdom and one at Bethel near the southern border. Their purpose? To create an opportunity for Israelites to worship without going to Jerusalem. At these shrines Jeroboam installed idols, golden calves, and invited his people to worship. In his fear-driven effort to protect himself, he led his kingdom into the very sins that led to Solomon’s downfall. >> It seems sensible to do everything we can to protect our own interests. But we must be mindful that God is the only One who can guarantee our future. What are you afraid of that is causing you to secure your life in a way that dishonors God?
Whenever a new boss takes charge, they make changes. Some of those decisions are welcomed by their employees, others are met with disapproval. After King Solomon died, two men stepped into leader- ship. Solomon’s son and successor, Rehoboam, and his rival, Jeroboam. For Rehoboam, this was a chance to rise to the occasion of leadership and cultivate an identity apart from his father. Unlike David, Solomon seems to have made a clear plan for succession, there was no confusion as when David died. But Rehoboam had a different problem. Although Israel prospered under Solomon, the prosperity came at a cost. The people had experienced heavy taxation and a forced labor system. They yearned for relief (v. 4). They found a spokesperson for their cause in Jeroboam, the man who had fled to Egypt to hide from Solomon (v. 2). He led a delegation to make a request of the new king (Rehoboam). “Lighten the hard service...and we will serve you” (v. 4). Initially Rehoboam sought counsel from his father’s advisors who advised Rehoboam to speak gently to the people and agree with their request (v. 7). But the king rejected their advice and consulted a younger set of advisors, men he had known for years. They advised that he take a hard line: “My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier” (v. 11). Agreeing, Rehoboam spoke harshly to the people and watched as ten tribes sided with Jeroboam and formed their own kingdom. Here we see God’s sovereignty on display, even through the poor choice of their new leader. It is easy to wonder if Rehoboam could have avoided this situation if he had listened to older, wiser men. But we must not forget that this was the plan of God. He was at work even through these difficulties. >> Are you facing a difficult situation? Do not despair, rather consider how God might be guiding you through it. God is still on the throne. What might He be teaching you?
There are some very dramatic examples of God’s punishment for sin in the Bible. In Numbers, the ground opened and swallowed people whole (Num. 16:31–35). In Acts, Ananias and his wife Sapphira were judged for lying and fell down dead (Acts 5:5,10). But in Solomon’s case, God used a different type of discipline. God had already described what would await the disobedient king when he made a covenant with David. At that time, God warned that He would “punish him with a rod wielded by men” (2 Sam. 7:14). In this chapter we see what that means. God used war and the threat of rebellion to take away peace. Hadad, an Edomite who had suffered as a child under David, returned as a rival (v. 14). Another man named Rezon, settled in Damascus to set up a rival kingdom (v. 23). Finally, the Lord raised up Jeroboam, a talented young man who worked for Solomon. He was so gifted that Solomon put him in charge of a large construction project in Jerusalem (v. 28). But God intended to give ten of Israel’s twelve tribes to Jeroboam. God sent a prophet to give Jeroboam the message, but Solomon heard and tried to kill his new rival. Jeroboam escaped to Egypt, where Pharaoh, previously Solomon’s ally, protected him. Why would the Lord punish a king whom he previously blessed? The answer is found in verse 33: “[B]ecause they have forsaken me... and have not walked in obedience to me, nor done what is right in my eyes, nor kept my decrees and laws as David, Solomon’s father, did” (1 Kings 11:33). The end of Solomon’s 40-year reign is summarized in verses 41–43. >> The punishment God inflicted for Solomon’s disobedience is a stern reminder of how He views sin. Spend some time in confession today. As believers on this side of the Cross, we are able to experience His forgiveness (1 John 1:9; Heb. 8:12).
Sometimes what seems like a small compromise can lead to devastating results. Maybe you’ve taken a short cut to home repair only to discover the resulting damage was far worse than if you’d fixed it the right way at the beginning. The same was true of Solomon. Considering the wisdom and wealth Solomon received from the Lord in the early years of his life, it is great disappointment that the king turned away from the Lord. How did this happen? The desertion comes through worshiping false gods. Solomon disobeyed the instructions God gave Israel about kingship. In Deuteronomy 17:14–21, God commanded that Israel’s kings were not to take many wives. We can assume non-Israelite wives were in view because the command comes with a reason. These wives would turn the king’s heart after foreign gods. As Israel’s leader, it was of utmost importance to remain faithful to Yahweh. For as the heart of the king goes, so goes the nation. Solomon brought wives into his home who worshiped foreign gods. Over time he allowed himself to be persuaded to worship those gods. He even built shrines to false gods on a hill opposite Jerusalem within sight of the Temple he built for Yahweh (vv. 7–8)! In an echo of the golden calf incident in Exodus when Israel worshiped an idol in full view of Yahweh on Mt. Sinai (Exodus 32), Solomon’s act of betrayal resulted in an extreme consequence—his kingdom would be turned over to an adversary. God raised up enemies, including Jeroboam, who upon Solomon’s death would gain control of a large portion of the kingdom. But the consequences would not only affect Solomon but also the lives of everyone he led. >> Today’s reading serves as a caution in our own walk with God. Are you making compromising choices? Stop and consider the effect this will have on your relationship with God and with others. Is the cost worth the compromise?
In today’s world, fame spreads at the speed of light. One viral video can bring a person instant fame. News is pushed to us as it happens. But in Solomon’s day, it took 20 years for Solomon’s reputation to catch the attention of the queen of Sheba! When the news reached her, she decided to journey to Jerusalem to see Solomon’s kingdom for herself (v. 2). She came with “hard questions” (v. 1), paying careful attention to the food, his servants, their clothes, even what he offered to God. When she saw it, the text tells us, “She was overwhelmed” (v. 5). Yet, the writer is careful to note that Solomon possessed his wisdom and wealth only because God had established him (vv. 9–10). Why include an account of this visit? The writer wants us to note that everything the Lord promised Solomon at Gibeon had come true (1 Kings 3:11–14). You will recall that God promised He would give Solomon what he asked for, wisdom. But He would also give him things he hadn’t asked for, but which kings often desired. He gave him wealth, prosperity, peace, success, etc. The rest of chapter 10 highlights that God was true to His word. Solomon had received everything he ever wanted and then some! Wealth flowed into the nation as ships returned from trading visits, spreading wealth to the point that “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth” (v. 23)! Even rulers of other nations had to acknowledge the greatness of Solomon, “the whole world sought audience with Solomon” (v. 24). This was a golden age in Israel and this visit was a testimony to the blessing of the Lord on a faithful ruler. >> How has the Lord blessed you? Everything we have is from Him! Consider how you can share the blessings God has given you with those around you. Even better, how can you use your resources to further the work of the gospel?
At times, the book of 1 Kings can be depressing. We watch from the sidelines as Israel disobeyed and rebelled against the God who loved them and provided for them. Our shoulders slump as we see God punish them with increasingly strong punishments. And, living in a day when judging is a bad word, how do we reconcile the love of God and the justice of God? Isn’t God being harsh, overbearing, and tyrannical? How can we love a god who behaves this way? In response to those concerns, it is important for us to remember that God warned Israel of the consequences of disobedience again and again. He wanted them to avoid sin. After he finished building the Temple, the Lord appeared to Solomon a second time (vv. 1–2). Solomon was not surprised when God warned him to stay the course, to follow the path, and to remain faithful to the covenant (vv. 4–5). He warned Solomon of punishment if the king or the people disobeyed. “I will cut off Israel from the land” (v. 7). “This Temple will become a heap of rubble” (v. 8). God wasn’t telling Solomon anything he didn’t already know. Again and again, God warned Israel not to sin and gave them clear instructions on what’s righteous and what’s sinful behavior. Israel’s God was never random, unpredictable, or given to changing the rules on a whim. The covenant He made with His people at Mt. Sinai clearly laid out the blessings and curses that awaited the people based on their behavior. These rules were not directed at making them God’s people. They already were His people. Rather, these were aimed at enticing them to enjoy fellowship with God! If they were faithful, they would enjoy His blessing. Unfaithfulness would bring judgment. >> We may not always experience the consequences that our choices deserve. When this happens, it isn’t a sign that God endorses our actions but a sign that He gives space to repent (Rom. 2:4).
Where does God live? If you knew, would you go visit Him? If He gave you an audience, what would you say? The Israelites understood that there is one God and that He is everywhere. But they also knew that when they worshiped God through sacrifice, they needed to do this at a location He chose. God told the nation He would choose a place and cause His name to dwell there (Deuteronomy 12). His name was a symbol for Himself. It was at this place that the people were to bring sacrifices and offerings. God forbade these practices to be carried out anywhere else. David, Solomon’s father, understood that place was in Jerusalem, and wanted to build a Temple there, but the task fell to Solomon. In 1 Kings 6, we read about the building of the Temple. When it was complete, Solomon’s prayer of dedication reflects what this “house of the Lord” signified. God is unique. He makes and keeps His promises. God rewards righteousness and listens to and answers prayers! Solomon knew God couldn’t be restricted to a building (v. 27). With amazement he expressed the implications of a God who cannot be contained. God has jurisdiction over every situation! When no one knows who is right or wrong, God hears and judges (vv. 31–32). When Israel loses in battle because God is punishing them, God hears their repentance (v. 34). When rain is withheld because of sin, God hears their request for forgiveness and restores blessing (v. 36). God hears Israelites and foreigners (vv. 42–43). The Temple Solomon built was a physical representation of the all-hearing God. It showed that anyone can speak to this God and gain an audience with Him. >> Jesus Christ echoed this theological truth when He told His disciples that He would be with them always (Matt. 28:20). He would be with them to help, to heal, and to hear. He is near; what will you say to Him today?
Have you ever been asked to judge a conflict that came down to one person’s word against the other? In moments like these, we long for someone to step in and provide justice. Someone who will declare, “This is right, and this is wrong!” In 1 Kings chapter 3, Solomon is asked to judge a court case so dramatic that it could have been ripped from today’s headlines. It involved two desperate mothers and two babies. One child accidentally died in the night, and now both women were claiming the living baby as her own. Who was telling the truth? Since no one could decide, the case was brought before the king. Earlier in 1 Kings chapter 3, God offered Solomon anything he wanted. The young king had asked God for the wisdom he needed to lead Israel. God agreed to give Solomon what he asked for and much more! Here we see Solomon’s wisdom put into action. In a surprise move, the king says, “Bring me a sword” (v. 24). What appears to be a cruel verdict is in fact a ruse. The king watched to see how each woman would respond. The true mother was “deeply moved out of love for her son” (v. 26). She offered to give the baby to the other, putting concern for the child above her desire to win. Solomon was able to rightly discern the real mother. Rather than punish both women, he took the time to consider who was right and who was wrong. Being a fair judge requires great wisdom, patience, discernment, and courage. It is no wonder that Solomon asked God for wisdom. Here we see that God delivered. >> Keep yearning for justice? Pray for your leaders, all of them, that God would give them the wisdom they need. Ask God to keep your eyes focused on our coming King who will “reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land” (Jer. 23:5).
With his kingship now established, Solomon had to figure out how to rule. Almost innocently, we are told that he made an alliance with Egypt and married Pharaoh’s daughter (v. 1). Alliances were made to bring nations together in peace, provide defense, and encourage trade. Yet, this was a decision that could bring dangerous consequences. Solomon had willingly attached himself to a foreign nation. And, although he appeared to be doing so from a position of strength, he brought into his house someone who did not worship the God of Israel. Israelites were specifically forbidden to marry Canaanites because they worshiped other gods (Ex. 34:16; Deut. 7:1–6; Josh. 23:11–13). Although this woman was an Egyptian, the choice was ominous. Did Solomon understand the long-term consequences of his choice? Was this an early sign that Solomon would not be a perfect leader? In verse 3 we are told that Solomon loved the Lord, “except” that he worshiped with sacrifices on the “high places” near Gibeon (v. 3). High places were open-air shrines, where Canaanites worshiped foreign gods. Israel was commanded to destroy all of them when they entered the Promised Land, but they failed to do so, and as a result some of them remained and had been repurposed to worship Yahweh. The Lord met Solomon there and made him an offer few of us would refuse. Ask for whatever you want and you can have it, the Lord said (v. 5). What would you ask for? Solomon’s request for wisdom reveals that he understood what it took to be a good leader. He understood that shepherding God’s people required more wisdom than he had. His actions already revealed that he would need all the wisdom he could get. >> As wonderful as any leader might seem, they are all fallible. Pray for the leaders, in your church, workplace, and government. Pray that they would recognize God as the source of wisdom they desperately need.
Have you ever stepped into a new leadership role only to be met with unexpected opposition? Just because someone gives you a job and a title does not mean you will be welcomed with open arms. Immediately after the death of his father and his own appointment as king, Solomon faced similar management struggles. We have already seen that David struggled to deal decisively at times. He had failed to discipline his sons (1 Kings 1:6). He had sided with the rebel Absalom. He did not establish a clear plan of succession. Now David exhorts Solomon to prepare for battle. Instead of handling the matter himself, he left the problem for Solomon to settle. Joab, David’s general, was a powerful man who had murdered two men in times of peace (v. 5). Shimei, an enemy of David, had cursed him when he ran from a coup (v. 8). A third man, Adonijah, was Solomon’s half-brother and principal rival for the throne (vv. 13–25). The new king was forced to take drastic action to deal with each of these situations. Joab and Adonijah were killed quickly. Shimei’s death would come three years later after he disobeyed the king (v. 46). With his enemies defeated, Solomon regained control. The violence in these verses makes them difficult to read. Revenge was the order of the day. But we must remember that the stories of the Bible are not fairy tales. Battles were fought, men and women died. God had given Solomon the throne, but that did not mean he would be exempt from the challenges that came with possessing it. >> Are there challenges you face at work or at home that are distasteful to you? Rather than seeing them as a burden, what if you viewed them as God’s appointed work? Ask God for His wisdom as you engage in these difficult situations, that He will help you act in obedience to Him.
Isn’t it satisfying when an ending brings clarity? The last minutes of a game inspire a great comeback. The final scenes of a movie explain the plot twist. In the same way, the last days of a life can provide a sense of purpose and reflection. Before David’s life and his rule ended, he gave the best advice he could to his young son Solomon who would sit on the throne after him. David reminded Solomon of the covenant God had made with him (2 Sam. 7:4). There God promised David an heir to the throne and said that the success of this descendant would depend upon his obedience to God’s commandments. David had followed God wholeheartedly, but certainly not perfectly. Mindful of his own life story, he exhorted Solomon to “be strong” (v. 2). Strength of conviction and character would be necessary to walk in obedience to God, to “keep his statutes, his commandments, his rules, and his testimonies” (v. 3). These words summarize the content of the Law of God given to Moses (Ps. 119:1–8). David reminds his son to obey all that God had commanded. This, he says, will be the key to his success. Of course, obedience does not guarantee prosperity or a life of ease. Even when David obeyed, he had faced tremendous difficulty. For all of us, hard times are a part of life this side of eternity. Rather, the success David held out to Solomon, that Christ holds out to us, is a fellowship with God that sustains us through these difficulties. As God’s people, our innate desire to obey and please Him comes as a function of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We strive to obey God because of our relationship with Him. Which of us does not want to hear, “Well done good and faithful servant”? >> Just as Solomon needed God to sustain him through the challenges of leading Israel, we need Him to sustain us in the challenges we face. How do we maintain a close relationship with God? By obeying His commands.
Investors dislike uncertainty. Who wants to entrust their hard-earned money to an opportunity that is shrouded in mystery? We want clarity if we can get it. As the curtain rises on 1 Kings, we see a great deal of uncertainty about who will sit on the throne of David. Now an old man, King David was too fragile to keep himself warm. More importantly we discover that he had not set his house in order: no one knew who would be king after him. Nature abhors a vacuum and so does politics! David’s inaction created an opportunity for his son Adonijah to make a play for the throne. Nathan and Bathsheba caught wind of the plot and reminded the king of the promise he had made. Awakened to the crisis, David appointed Solomon as his successor. His kingdom, and we readers as well, gave a sigh of relief, for Solomon was loved of the Lord (2 Sam. 12:24–25). David had been a beloved ruler who set the human standard for kingship in Israel. Yet we must acknowledge that he was a flawed man. These flaws created problems for others. His inability to discipline his children, his murder of Uriah, his abuse of power with Bathsheba, and more, meant that his people could not count on even their best leader to provide perfect leadership. As good as David was, God’s people needed better. God had promised David that his kingdom would last forever (2 Samuel 7). More than just a long line of kings, this promise pointed to Jesus, the forever King who would “ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and righteousness” (Ps. 45:4). At the start of the New Testament, we note that the succession plan took a great step forward to Jesus Christ. >> While we are often disappointed and disillusioned by human-appointed leaders, one day our Forever King will sit on the throne. There will be no uncertainly then! We will be led by the best leader possible.
It is easy to take aspects of our modern world for granted. For example, we have refrigeration to store and preserve food and ready access to clean running water. Unless you’ve lived without these conveniences, you might not appreciate how wonderful they are. Many aspects of the book of Leviticus probably seem foreign and strange to Christians today. One of the reasons is that we have never participated in animal sacrifice or abided by Jewish dietary laws. Since Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the Old Testament sacrificial system, we are no longer under it. But studying the law provides a richer understanding of God’s gift to us in Jesus. The writer of Hebrews rejoices in the comparison between the sacrifice of Jesus and the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus. He notes that the sacrifices in Leviticus always pointed beyond themselves. As Hebrews teaches, “it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (v. 4). But Jesus, through His once-for- all sacrifice, cleansed us from sin and made us holy (v. 10). Instead of having a priest present offerings day after day, Jesus fully achieved our atonement for sin (v. 11). After His resurrection, He sat down at the right hand of God. His work was complete (v. 12). When we trust in Jesus’ death to atone for our sin, we receive forgiveness and are made holy (v. 14). Even more astounding, the Holy Spirit dwells inside of us. God’s presence is now not screened behind the veil in the Holy of Holies. We have access to the Father! >> We hope this study of Leviticus helped you more fully understand and appreciate the salvation we have been given through Jesus. Studying the sacrificial system and the role of the priests reveals to us the wonder of what Jesus has done. A perfect God can only be in fellowship with holy people. Through Jesus, God made a way for us to become holy.
The book of 1 Samuel opens with the story of Hannah. Unable to have children, Hannah was suffering. In her “deep anguish,” she vowed to the Lord that if He gave her a son she would give him back to the Lord “for all the days of his life” (1 Sam. 1:9–11). Vows were common in ancient Israel. They often involved dedicating something to the Lord, whether a person, an animal, or real estate. Vows were also entirely voluntary. Nowhere in Scripture does God command the making of vows. However, if a person did vow, it was vital to fulfill it (Eccl. 5:5–6; Mal.1:13–14). Leviticus 27 outlines ways in which vows could be fulfilled. A person dedicated to the Lord could serve at the tabernacle or be redeemed through paying a price (vv. 1–7). The price was set by the age and gender. This was not an assessment of someone’s intrinsic worth. The Bible is clear that all, male and female, are created in the image of God (Gen. 1:26–27). Rather, it was an assessment of a person’s value as a worker. Provision was made for the poor so they could make this kind of vow and could afford to fulfill it (v. 8). Rules also outlined different situations that could arise in the dedication of property or animals (vv. 9–28). The basic principle at work was that a person needed to be faithful to give what they vowed. Scripture recognizes the human tendency, after the excitement of the moment when a vow was made, to go back on it once the request is answered or the moment of crisis passes. Fulfilling a vow was a joyous occasion (Ps. 61:8; 65:1). It was a time when people could recount God’s faithfulness and celebrate in His presence (Ps. 66:13–15). >> Have you ever promised God something in a moment of desperate need? Did you fulfill your vow? Today’s reading is a reminder to take our vows seriously. When God does answer prayer, it is appropriate to celebrate through testifying about it to others.
In 2006, a team of landscape architects conducted a simple study on the impact of a fenced-in playground. They had a preschool teacher take her students to a playground without a fence. The children all huddled around the teacher and did not utilize the full playground space. They then took the same class to a fenced in playground and observed that the children felt freer to explore the entire space. Having a clear boundary led to a greater sense of freedom and security. Through Through the law, God provided Israel with clear expectations. They did not have to wonder what God required of them. This gave them a sense of security and freedom in their relationship with God. However, God’s instructions also came with consequences. Today’s reading outlines the blessings for Israel if they obeyed the covenant and curses if they did not. If Israel obeyed the covenant, they would be richly blessed. They would have abundant harvests and safety from their enemies (vv. 3–10). Their greatest blessing would be the presence of God in the midst of His people (vv. 11–12). If Israel disobeyed, the consequences were just as clear. They would be struck with disease, famine, and defeat by their enemies (vv. 14–17). Most grievously, they would be exiled from the land and from access to God’s presence at the tabernacle (vv. 33–35). However, even if they broke the covenant and experienced the full brunt of God’s judgment, He would not give up on them. The chapter ends on a note of hope. God would remember His covenant with Abraham (vv. 42–45). If the people repent, they would be restored (vv. 40–41). >> We worship a God who is both gracious and forgiving. God has given us clear rules to follow, but He has also provided a way for forgiveness and restoration. If you do not know Jesus as your personal Savior, we invite you to turn to Him today. In Him, you will find hope and a future.
According to a recent report, there are only 2,668 billionaires in the world. Together, these individuals have accumulated $12.7 trillion in wealth. And 86 of the people in this exclusive club are under the age of 40! Consider the tremendous wealth held by those 2,668 individuals in comparison to the rest of the world’s 7.837 billion people. This sharp division between the rich and the poor was not the ideal in ancient Israel. The Jubilee laws were designed to prevent the utter ruin of those who fell into debt. It also prevented individuals within Israel from accumulating large amounts of land perpetually. After every seventh sabbatical year, the year of Jubilee was proclaimed (vv. 8–9). During this year, all land that had been sold was to be returned to its original owner (v. 10). In addition, if any Israelite had to sell themselves into debt-slavery, they were released (vv. 40–41). Two reasons are given for this legislation. God proclaimed, “The land must not be sold permanently, because the land is mine” (v. 23). Returning land to the family that had originally been assigned the property when Israel entered the land would be a way to remind Israel of this truth. Similarly, God proclaimed that slaves could not be kept permanently because “the Israelites belong to me as servants. They are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt” (v. 55). Every Israeli had an equal status as a redeemed servant of God. Today’s reading reminds us of God’s heart for the poor. He wanted to ensure that at least once in a person’s life there was a chance for a new start. This legislation also served as a check against unbridled greed. >> One day all things will be made right. The year of Jubilee gave Israel a foretaste of that day. The Lord Jesus fulfilled aspects of the Jubilee legislation (Luke 4:18–19). He not only cared for the poor but also released them from the debt of sin before God (Luke 7:36–50).
My son has access to the hand tools at our house. He is free to use them for his own projects. However, he also needs to be responsible with their use. He must use them safely and not leave them outside after he is finished. I set these rules for him because they are my tools, and he is my son. Israel needed to be reminded regularly that their land was ultimately God’s. God had the authority to set the rules for its use. In today’s reading, God instructed Israel regarding their farming. They were to work the land for six years (v. 3). But in the seventh year, they were to let the land lie in rest (v. 4). They were not to sow crops or prune their vineyards. Just like people get a sabbath every seventh day, the land was to get a sabbath every seventh year. Whatever produce the land yielded during the sabbath year, it was to serve as food for everyone (vv. 6–7). Observing the sabbath year meant that people would not maximize the potential profit of their land. This practice taught Israel that God desired both hard work and trust in Him, since they would have to plan for this sabbath year and had no guarantee that the eighth year would yield a bountiful harvest. One of the reasons for Israel’s exile from the land was that they did not obey this law. During the exile, “the land enjoyed its sabbath rests” (2 Chron. 36:21). >> What a great reminder that everything we have ultimately is a gift from the Lord and belongs to Him. The goal of our life should not be to accumulate the maximum amount of wealth we possibly can, but to live in right relationship with God, others, and the world He created. Today is a good day to celebrate the truth that “The earth is the LORD’s and everything in it” (Ps. 24:1).
During his tumultuous presidency, Abraham Lincoln is reported to have said, “I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for that day.” In today’s reading, Moses encountered a situation where he was not sure what to do. Instead of making a quick decision, he waited, “until the will of the LORD should be made clear to them” (v. 12). This is a good reminder that the law in Israel was not given by Moses, but God. Moses knew he needed to wait for God’s guidance and leading. The specific situation had to do with a man who had an Egyptian father and Israelite mother (v. 10). This man got into a fight with an Israelite, during which he blasphemed and cursed the name of the Lord (v. 11). This was a serious offense. The Lord commanded that the man be put to death (v. 14). This specific situation led to a series of laws that have become famous, “eye for eye, tooth for tooth” (v. 19). While this may seem harsh, it put a limit on how much retribution was allowed. Often this command was not applied literally. For example, if a slave lost an eye, he was given his freedom (Ex. 21:26). The point was that the punishment should be in proportion to the crime. The New Testament required that punishment be carried out by civil authorities (Acts 25:11; Rom. 13:4). In addition, Jesus called His followers to a higher standard. Instead of an “eye for an eye,” He declared, “do not resist an evil person...love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt. 5:39, 44). >> If you are feeling overwhelmed, it is always good to spend time in prayer. Ask God for His guidance in your life. Ask Him to use the truth of His Word to speak into your situation.
One of the most frequent commands in Scripture is “Remember!” God knows we are prone to forget. In Scripture, forgetting is considered a moral failure (Deut. 4:23). God is not concerned with everyday forgetfulness like trying to remember where you put your car keys. Rather, He is concerned with deep relational forgetfulness, forgetting who He is and what He has done (Deut. 6:12). To help Israel remember, God instituted a calendar. Israel’s life would be punctuated by breaks in the year where people would stop their normal work. They would remember God’s deliverance from Egypt through the 10 plagues at Passover (Lev. 23:5). They would remember the haste in which they left Egypt in the Festival of Unleavened Bread (v. 6). They would remember God’s provision at harvest time in the Festivals of Firstfruits and Weeks (vv. 9–20). The first day of the seventh month was a holy day of rest and remembrance marked by the blowing of a ram’s horn (vv. 23–25). The Day of Atonement was a solemn day of fasting and mourning over sin while the priest atoned for the sin of the people (vv. 26–32). Finally, the Festival of Tabernacles commemorated the Lord’s provision after the Exodus (vv. 33–44). These events reminded Israel of who God is and helped pass on that knowledge to their children (v. 43). These festivals provide important background for many New Testament practices. The Last Supper was held on Passover (Matt. 26:17). The Holy Spirit descended upon the church at Pentecost (Acts 2). Paul describes Jesus as the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep,” pointing to the resurrection (1 Cor. 15:20). When we celebrate communion, we remember what Christ has done and anticipate His second coming (1 Cor. 11:25–26). >> Why not make a remembering calendar of your own? In what ways has God shown His goodness to you and your loved ones? Maybe in addition to celebrating birthdays or anniversaries, we can also celebrate remembering!
We often like to tell people just how busy we are. “I’m so busy; I can hardly keep up!” As one author described the struggle, “I wanted to figure out why I was so busy, but I couldn’t find the time to do it.” One of the reasons we keep ourselves so busy is that we find a sense of value and worth in constantly being productive. One of the most distinctive elements of Israel’s faith was their practice of Sabbath. The command is rooted in Creation. Over six days God created the universe and on the seventh He rested (Gen. 2:2–3). It was important enough that God illustrated this command by example. Today’s reading reminded Israel of one of the purposes of Sabbath: it was to be a “day of sacred assembly” (Lev. 23:3). The community would come together in rest and fellowship with each other and with the Lord. Sabbath reminds us that life is not about being productive all the time. After all, God is the Lord of time. The practice of keeping the Sabbath puts a check on our ambition. It reminds us that we can take the time to rest in God’s presence because we trust Him to provide for us. It reminds us that it is not our work or frantic activity that makes us holy, but our relationship with God. Without this principle, work can become an idol or an oppressor. The Sabbath was to be for everyone; men and women, children, servants, foreigners residing in Israel, and even animals (Ex. 20:10). As members of the New Covenant, we are not required to observe Sabbath in the same way Israel did (Col. 2:16). However, having a pattern of work and rest is still authoritative for us. Jesus invites His followers to find their rest in Him (Matt. 11:28). >> Take a few moments to evaluate your own life and pattern of rest and work. Do you devote regular time to rest in the Lord? How can you set aside that time this week?
It is often tempting to cut corners. A high school student might read the CliffsNotes version of A Tale of Two Cities instead of slogging through the entire novel. A carpenter might not use all the safety features on his table saw because it is quicker to use it without them. In today’s reading, the Lord warns Israel against cutting corners in worship. For burnt offerings or offerings to fulfill a vow, the worshiper must present a male without defect from the cattle, sheep, or goats (vv. 19–20). For a fellowship offering, a male or female animal was acceptable, but it must be without blemish (v. 21). This was a problem in ancient Israel. The prophet Malachi admonished, “When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you?” (Mal. 1:8). In optional sacrifices like freewill offerings, some deformities were allowed (v. 23). Another way Israel might have tried to save money would be to offer a newborn animal that had not yet cost anything to feed or care for. Moses instructs that the animal must be at least a week old (v. 27). God is to be treated with reverence and respect. Offering only the best sacrifices reminded Israel of the holiness of God (v. 32). Today’s passage reminds us that Jesus was also the perfect sacrifice, “you were redeemed...with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:18–19). In response, we offer ourselves to God as a “living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship” (Rom. 12:1). >> What should be the focus of worship? It is not that we walk away feeling satisfied, or even worse, entertained. The most important part of worship is that it is acceptable and pleasing to God. Worship like that will be the most satisfying to us as well.
After Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider and endowed with superpowers to become Spider-Man, his Uncle Ben gave him this memorable advice, “With great power comes great responsibility.” These words are similar to Jesus’ statement: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded” (Luke 12:48). Priests in Israel were given much. They represented the people before God in the tabernacle and could enter the Holy Place. But with special privileges came a higher standard for holiness. Today’s reading outlines three specific areas where priests had greater restrictions than the rest of Israel: mourning rituals, potential marriage partners, and physical defects. Priests could not make themselves ceremonially unclean in mourning for just anyone. They were allowed this practice only for close blood-relatives (vv. 1–4). The high priest had an even higher standard. He could not publicly mourn for anyone (vv. 10–12). This practice was in sharp contrast to other ancient cultures, such as Egypt, where the care of the dead was a primary concern of priests. These prohibitions may have helped Israel avoid falling into ancestor worship. Priests also were restricted in their potential spouses. Their spouse needed to represent the holiness of their role and so could not have been previously married or have been engaged in prostitution (v. 7). Just like sacrificial animals had to be physically whole, priests needed to be as well (vv. 16–21). They could not have physical deformities to serve in the tabernacle. Priests who did not measure up to this standard were still provided for financially along with their families (vv. 22–23). >> Praise the Lord that Jesus, our High Priest, perfectly lived up to the highest moral standards during His earthly ministry (Heb. 4:14–15). He continues to serve as our High Priest in the presence of the Father (Heb. 10:12–13). Even now He is sanctifying His people, His bride at the wedding supper of the Lamb (Rev. 19:7–8).
In one country I visited, driving was a terrifying experience. People did not pay attention to stoplights or lanes. Cars would veer into oncoming traffic to make a turn. For me, coming from the suburbs in the United States, it seemed chaotic. I asked a local, “Are there traffic laws?” He responded, “Oh, yes. We have laws, but no one ever enforces them.” Leviticus 18 and 19 presented us with laws covering many different aspects of life. A natural follow-up question is, “What happens if a law was broken?” Today’s reading outlines the consequences of disobedience. The modern reader might be surprised at how many infractions resulted in the death penalty. The death penalty was reserved for behaviors that fundamentally broke God’s covenant with Israel. Every case of the death penalty can be tied directly to one of the Ten Commandments. For example, sacrificing children to Molek broke the command against murder and against worshiping other gods (vv. 1–5). This was a serious infraction that put the whole community at risk of God’s judgment. Dishonoring one’s parents and adultery also required the death penalty (vv. 9–10). Israel did not require the death penalty as often as other ancient cultures. For example, it was not required for matters of property like theft. People were considered more important than objects. Even so, the reason for severe consequences was that Israel would be holy, set apart for God (v. 26). Israel was to act differently than the nations around them (v. 23). If they wanted to live in the land under God’s blessing, they needed to follow His covenant regulations (vv. 22–24). >> Since the church is not under the Mosaic covenant and is also not a political entity in the way Israel was, these consequences are no longer in force. However, they remind us that God takes sin seriously. It should also make us deeply grateful that Jesus bore the penalty for sin on our behalf (Gal. 3:13).
One day a teacher of the Law asked Jesus, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” (Mark 12:28). Jesus answered that the greatest commandment was: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (v. 30). But then He added a second, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (v. 31). The reason Jesus gave two commands, not just one, is that they go together. You cannot really love God without loving your neighbor and vice versa. Today’s reading includes the second greatest commandment (Lev. 19:18). Not surprisingly, it is included in a section with a variety of commands, some of which address our relationship with God, while others address our relationship with other people. The laws relating to God deal with correct worship (vv. 26, 30). These include upholding the food laws and observing the Sabbaths (vv. 26, 30). These are easy enough to understand. Some of the laws were designed to remind Israel that they were a separate and holy people (v. 19). Some of the more bizarre laws relate to Israel remaining distinct from the cultures around them and not participating in pagan worship (vv. 27–31). Throughout these verses there is a concern to treat others well. Israel was to respect the elderly (v. 32), show hospitality to foreigners (v. 34), and be honest in their work (vv. 35–36). They should live this way because that is how God had treated them. He had also redeemed them from slavery in Egypt (v. 36). >> As followers of Jesus, we are not under the Mosaic Law. Yet, as Jesus affirmed, the principles behind the Law still reveal the character of God and are authoritative. In this passage, we get a glimpse of God’s love for His people and the world He created (vv. 23–24). We are called to be like Him (Lev. 19:2).
Efficiency and productivity are buzzwords you often hear in the business world. Sharp business owners ask, “How can we do what we do better? How can I leverage my resources to maximize profits and efficiency?” This attitude has led many to unbelievable success and is understandably valued in our society. In Leviticus 19, we read through a series of laws designed to provide Israel with practical examples of holiness in everyday life. One law commanded Israel to be inefficient in their work. At harvest time, Israelite farmers were instructed not to harvest the edges of their fields (v. 9). In a similar way, vineyard owners were not to go back over their vineyard a second time but instead to leave the remaining grapes (v. 10). In other words, Israel was called to not make the most out of their productive land. Why? This would allow the poor and the foreigner to harvest food (v. 10). God cares deeply about the poor and the vulnerable. Through this practice, God instituted a way in Israel for the poor to work for their own food. It was not a handout but a requirement to work, not a dependency on one individual’s charitable impulse but divine command. Israelite farmers were not giving charity, they were simply obeying the law. This law reminded Israel that the land was ultimately not theirs, but God’s. It encouraged them to show compassion for the poor and foreign resident and provide a way for them to integrate into society. This provision in the law enabled Ruth to provide food for herself and Naomi when they returned to the land of Israel without husbands or sons to sustain them (Ruth 2). >> Take time to think creatively about how you can help the poor and vulnerable, a subject close to God’s heart (Prov. 19:17). God warns us against greed, a perpetual temptation for believers (Luke 12:15; Eph. 4:19).
Larry Nassar held an important role as team doctor for USA Gymnastics. But in 2017, Nassar fell from grace when he was convicted of abusing hundreds of children and young women under his care. He is currently serving a 175-year prison sentence. One of the elements that make his actions so reprehensible is that he was in a trusted position of authority. In ancient Israel, male heads of households were in a position of authority and power. Back then, households were structured differently than they are today. It was not uncommon for four or more generations to live together in close proximity with members of one’s extended family. In a world before police officers or social workers, the head of house was responsible for the well-being of everyone in his family. With such big responsibility comes the potential for abuse. And today’s reading provides a series of prohibitions directed at a male head of household. Most of the commands clarify for the head of house who in his family is sexually off-limits—everyone but his wife. Family members needed to feel safe from abuse while living and working together. These commands are given twice in the chapter for emphasis; Israel was to be different from other nations (vv. 1–2, 30). God judged Canaan because of the abusive sexual practices and custom of child sacrifice (v. 21). God held the nations accountable for these practices, which included adultery and homosexuality (vv. 20–22). God created sexuality to be enjoyed in the right context: a committed marriage relationship. Outside of this context, it can be abusive and destructive. Part of what it means to be holy is to follow God’s direction in this area (Col. 3:5). >> God’s directions about sexuality were countercultural for Israel, as well as for us today. The book of Leviticus reminds us that God wants the best for us in every aspect of our lives. He has provided specific guidelines for sexuality and cares deeply about the abused and vulnerable.
Some people fear the sight of blood. They have to look away during their annual blood test and have a hard time helping bandage a wound. While blood can be frightening, it is also necessary. Every moment, blood pumps through our bodies, keeping us alive by supplying our body with oxygen and nutrients. In today’s reading, we have arrived at a major turning point in the book. Up to this point, the commands and teaching have been given to the priests. It instructed them on how to atone for sin and maintain purity in the tabernacle and the camp. Beginning in this chapter, Moses addresses all Israel (v. 1). This part of Leviticus teaches Israel how to maintain holiness in their everyday life. This chapter addresses two issues. The first issue was how to properly slaughter animals for food (vv. 3–7). If Israel desired to slaughter an animal to eat, they were required to bring it to the Tent of Meeting and offer it as a fellowship offering (v. 5). This ensured that the animal was slaughtered properly. It also reminded Israel that food was a gift from God and a part of regular worship. It would prevent Israel from being tempted to sacrifice to false gods away from the tabernacle (v. 7). The second issue was a prohibition against consuming blood of any kind (vv. 10–14). Blood represented the life of the animal. By refraining from consuming the blood, Israel showed respect for the sanctity of life (Gen. 9:4–6). Blood was also used in worship as a source of sanctification (Lev. 17:11). >> The word “blood” takes on even more meaning in the New Testament. We speak of Christ’s blood when we observe the Lord’s Supper. It is His blood that cleanses us from sin and makes us holy in God’s sight (1 Cor. 11:23–26). When we are “Washed by the Blood”, as the hymn proclaims, we are forever changed!
Starting with Adam and Eve, the central problem the Bible addresses is this: “How can a holy God dwell with a sinful people?” This almost led to the destruction of Israel after they sinned by creating and worshiping a Golden Calf (see Ex. 32–34). Today’s reading describes the Day of Atonement, the most theologically significant passage in Leviticus and perhaps in the entire Old Testament. It is important for every believer to understand the significance of this ceremony. After Aaron’s sons approached the Lord in the wrong way and were killed, God provided instructions for how Aaron could rightly enter the Holy of Holies to offer an atoning sacrifice for the nation (Lev. 16:1–2). Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, Aaron was to offer a sin offering for himself and for the nation (vv. 3–5). This was a holy and solemn affair. It was the only day of the year that the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies. After offering the appropriate sacrifices, Aaron would enter the Holy of Holies, burn incense before the Ark of the Covenant, and sprinkle blood on the cover of the Ark, often called the Mercy Seat (vv. 11–14). After performing this ritual, he was to take the scapegoat, lay his hands on its head, and confess the sins of Israel (v. 21). The goat was then to be led out of the camp into the wilderness, thus symbolically removing Israel’s sin from the camp (vv. 21–22). On that day, all Israel was to cease from work and mourn (v. 29). >> It was for our sin that Jesus died on the cross. His shed blood made the Day of Atonement ceremony no longer necessary. The curtain to the Holy of Holies was torn in two (Matt. 27:51; Mark 15:38) and all believers were given direct access to the Father. Jesus served as the ultimate scapegoat, taking upon Himself the sin of the world (1 Peter 2:24; Heb. 9:28).
The term “cancel culture” is often used today. Someone who says or does something another group does not like is “canceled,” ignored or disregarded. While our society has become pretty good at canceling people, we are not so skilled at welcoming into the community. In the book of Leviticus, we learn how a person was determined to be clean or unclean. The purpose again was to protect the holiness of the camp and the tabernacle. Some types of uncleanness were severe enough that people were required to live outside the camp (13:46). However, the laws did not leave those people without hope. There were also instructions on reintegrating people into the community (vv. 1–7). This ceremony had four elements: two birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop (v. 4). The significance of this ceremony is not given and is a bit obscure to us today. However, the result is clear enough. After going through the ceremony, the whole community would know that this person was now considered clean. They would now be integrated back into the camp and could join in corporate worship. If you read further in chapter 15, you will see laws regarding bodily discharges for men and women. These occur in the regular course of life and could be handled without going to a priest. For these situations, people had to trust each other that they would not defile the sanctuary by entering it when they were not ceremonially clean. As believers, we have permanent access to worshiping God at any time because of the finished work of Christ (Heb. 13:12). God provided a temporary way for this to be accomplished in ancient Israel that pointed forward to Jesus who “suffered outside the gate” on our behalf! >> How and when can we welcome back those who have been “outside the camp” of our Christian community? This is a topic worthy of prayer and discussion as individuals and as a church body.
My father enjoyed quoting Leviticus 13:40: “A man who has lost his hair and is bald is clean.” Certainly, that verse is a comfort to many who have experienced male-pattern baldness. Today we continue to discuss what makes something clean or unclean. We have learned that it is not simply a moral category. Sin could make one unclean, but so could many other things. Cleanness represented wholeness or normalcy. Things that made one unclean were often associated with death or mortality. Things that were unclean were not to come in contact with what was holy. The unclean could not touch what was clean without contaminating it. The camp of Israel was considered holy. In it was the tabernacle where God met with His people. Part of a priests’ job was to protect the holiness of the camp and the tabernacle. In Leviticus 13, we read about various types of skin diseases that might render someone unclean. There is a clear pattern to this chapter. If a person had an anomaly on the skin, they were to come to a priest (v. 1). The priest would assess whether that person was clean or unclean (v. 3). If the situation was unclear, the priest would ask the person to come back after a week to reassess it (v. 4). Twenty-one different types of skin issues are covered. There are many instances in Scripture when God afflicted people with a skin disease as an act of His judgment (Num. 12:10–12). Some in Israel were tempted to believe that all skin diseases were a result of sin, which was clearly not necessarily the case (see Job 2:7). >> When Jesus touched someone with a skin disease, He did not become unclean. Instead, the unclean person because whole and healthy again (Matt. 8:1–4). Jesus came to redeem us from all aspects of the Fall, including disease. We look forward to the day when those kinds of afflictions will be no more (Rev. 21:4).
Have you seen those dishwasher magnets with two words on them: “Dirty” and “Clean”? They help us know when it’s okay to add dirty dishes to the racks and when it’s time to put clean dishes away. In Leviticus, we read many laws about what is considered clean or unclean. These categories may seem strange to us today. But it is important to realize that uncleanness did not necessarily equate with sinfulness. Many non-sinful aspects of life could make you unclean. Welcoming a child into the world was one such event. A woman was considered ceremonially unclean after giving birth (v. 1). She could not enter the sanctuary or participate in the normal duties of life until she was purified. There was nothing sinful about having children. In Scripture it is clearly considered a blessing (Ps. 127:3). But the loss of blood in childbirth rendered the woman unclean. Things associated with death, such as losing bodily fluids or touching a corpse, were nonmoral reasons why a person might be rendered unclean. A practical benefit was that it gave a new mother time to recover from labor before returning to normal life. Some may wonder why having a girl rendered the mother unclean for twice as long as a boy (vv. 1, 5). The length did not have anything to do with perceived value. Both male and female were created in the image of God (Gen. 1:27). The sacrifice for both was also the same (vv. 6–8). Some think the shorter length for the male baby could be so the woman could participate in the ceremony related to circumcision (v. 3). When Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph obeyed these regulations, including offering a sacrifice (Luke 2:22–24). As a poor family, they offered pigeons or doves instead of a lamb. >> Reading through these laws may make you wonder how anyone could ever achieve holiness. But we know that because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are clean before God (John 15:3).
Keto. Paleo. Atkins. Vegan. Carnivore. Mediterranean. The sheer number of popular diets can be bewildering. We love food and, at the same time, we worry about what we eat. That makes diets a lucrative business. According to CNBC, in 2021 the diet industry was worth an estimated $71 billion. In Leviticus, God gave His people specific laws about food. Israel did not have to turn to diet books to discern what was acceptable to eat or not. It is important to note that Israel did not separate religion from the rest of their life. They understood that obedience to God involved not just worshiping at the sanctuary, but also everyday decisions of what to eat, what to wear, and how to treat people. Following dietary laws would have reminded Israelites a couple of times each day that they were God’s people. Observing these laws would help instill an attitude of obedience to God. It is important to remember that in places Leviticus was primarily a procedural manual. It does not always explain the rationale for various laws. Several explanations have been offered to explain the logic of the food laws: (1) Hygiene—unclean animals were often unhealthy and more prone to disease; (2) Morality—some animals acted in ways that served as examples of behavior to avoid or emulate; and (3) Holiness—Israel was to be separate from the nations around them. This last option finds the most biblical support. After presenting the food laws, God says, “Be holy, because I am holy” (v. 45). These laws would prevent God’s people from having close table fellowship with their Canaanite neighbors and maintain their distinctive Israelite identity. These laws became especially important during exile. >> Does your belief in God influence what you eat, what you wear, or how you spend your free time? While the New Testament makes clear that all foods have been declared clean (Mark 7:19), we are also called to stand out from the world because of our commitment to Christ (John 13:35).
In the midst of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln’s eleven-year-old son William succumbed to typhoid fever. Because of the crisis embroiling the nation, Lincoln did not have much time to stop and mourn. He carried his grief with him as he conducted his responsibilities as President. In ancient Israel, it was common to enter a period of formal mourning at the death of a loved one. The mourning ritual involved tearing your clothes and not caring for your hair or handling the dead body. Aaron and his sons had been consecrated for ministry to offer sacrifices on behalf of the nation. They had been in the midst of the worship associated with the dedication of the tabernacle when tragedy occurred. Moses reminded Aaron that despite the loss of two of his sons, he had to fulfill his role as high priest (vv. 6–7). Moses was not saying Aaron could not be sad or grieve. Rather as leaders, the priests had a job that they needed to complete. In verses 8–11, the Lord spoke to Aaron directly and commanded him and his sons not to drink any alcoholic beverage while on duty. One reason could be that alcohol was involved in Nadab and Abihu’s sin—although this is not stated directly. The Lord provided several reasons why priests should abstain while on duty. They needed to be able to think clearly to distinguish between the clean and unclean (v. 10). Part of their role was also to teach the Law of Moses to the people (v. 11). In Israel, it wasn’t just the priests or religious leaders who needed to know God’s word. All the people were to be trained in the knowledge of God’s commands. >> Today’s reading reminds us that Christian leaders are held to a higher standard. Jesus taught, that “from everyone who has been given much; much will be demanded” (Luke 12:48). Take a few moments today to pray for your pastor or other spiritual leaders whom God has placed in your life.
Is a fire always bad? According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire, forest fires serve some important roles. They clean the forest floor, provide wildland habitats for animals, and rid trees of dangerous diseases. While a fire may destroy, it also provides life for future generations. The fire described in Leviticus 10 is shocking. Everything had been going so well for Israel. The priests were consecrated for their ministry and God had accepted their sacrifice. That same day, Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu offered incense in an “unauthorized fire”, and everything changed (v. 1). What did Nadab and Abihu do wrong? Well, just about everything. First, they were not the right people to offer incense in the Holy of Holies, that was the high priest’s job (v. 1). Second, they offered this incense at the wrong time. It was only on the Day of Atonement that the high priest was permitted to enter the Holy of Holies to burn incense (Lev. 16). Third, they offered the wrong kind of incense. The word translated “unauthorized” is more literally “strange” or “foreign” (v. 1). Nadab and Abihu could have been introducing a foreign or pagan ritual into the worship of the Lord. Because of their disobedience, “fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them” (v. 2). Instead of a fire that consumed the sacrifice, they were themselves consumed in judgment. Their essential problem was thinking they knew better. They didn’t take God or His word seriously (v. 3), they didn’t treat God as holy. God wanted to make sure that Israel knew they could approach Him only on His terms, according to His commands. >> On this Resurrection Sunday, we celebrate our risen Savior who has conquered death forever. This truth should impact our worship! The writer of Hebrews reminds us: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire’” (Heb. 12:28–29).
When my wife and I put our youngest daughter to bed, she likes things done in a certain order. First my wife will pray with her and say goodnight. Only then can I come in and do the same. For some reason, it just does not work if we change places. In today’s reading, the priests have gone through a seven-day ordination ceremony. On the eighth day, they are now ready to begin their ministry (v. 1). You will notice a great deal of precision in this book, this portion focuses on the order of the first sacrifices. Moses instructs Aaron and the priests to first sacrifice a sin offering and burnt offering for themselves (v. 2). Only then could they offer the sin and burnt offerings for the people (v. 7). The order of the sacrifices teaches an important principle: Leaders need to first take care of their own relationship with God before they can lead others (Acts 20:28). After the sacrifices for atonement were offered, the fellowship offering could be given (v. 18). To be in right relationship with God requires that our sin is atoned for. As we have seen throughout the book, these sacrifices pointed forward to the greater and permanent sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. The only reason anyone can be in right relationship with God is because He provided a way for us. God demonstrated His approval of this worship service through the appearance of His glory in the sight of all the people. Fire came out from the Most Holy Place and consumed the offering. When “the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people,” their reaction was immediate: they “shouted for joy and fell facedown” (vv. 23, 24). >> Leviticus reminds us that our sacrifices to God not only have to be offered they also have to be accepted. Praise God today that He accepted Jesus as the permanent and perfect sacrifice for our sin. This gives us reason to shout for joy and worship (v. 24)!
Some professions require people to wear a particular uniform. A police officer wears a badge and uniformed pants and shirt. If you see someone in a white coat with a stethoscope around their neck, most likely they are a doctor. Each uniform communicates that these people have been trained, equipped, and authorized to engage in their profession. In Leviticus chapters 1 to 7, the Lord outlined all the various sacrifices Israel was to offer in the tabernacle. In today’s reading, the focus shifts to the priests who would carry out these sacrifices and offerings. Aaron and his sons had been set apart by God to minister on behalf of Israel in the tabernacle (vv. 1–3). In front of the whole nation, Moses called Aaron and his sons forward, washed them, dressed them in their priestly garments, and anointed them with oil (vv. 5–13). Much attention is given to their clothing. You may notice that there is no mention of shoes or sandals. This is because the priests working in the tabernacle would not wear sandals since they were on holy ground (Ex. 3:2–5). To consecrate them as priests, Moses had to offer a sin offering to atone for their sin (Lev. 8:14–17). He then offered a ram for their ordination (vv. 22–29). One unusual part of this offering is that some of the blood of the sacrifice was put on the right ear, thumb, and big toe of the priests (vv. 23–24). This represents that they would be totally dedicated to God. They would hear His word with their ear and do it with their hands and feet. >> Today is Good Friday, and we remember Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross. As believers, we have been consecrated by the blood of Jesus and anointed by God’s Spirit (2 Cor. 1:21–22). Jesus is our great High Priest and has appointed us to serve as a “royal priesthood” of believers (1 Peter 2:9). How will you serve Him today?
When I was fresh out of college, I worked for a couple of years as a high school teacher. I noticed that students gravitated toward a particular teacher, Mr. S. One day I asked a student, “What do you like about him?” The student responded, “Oh, Mr. S., he gets us.” Mr. S. understood what students cared about, struggled with, and needed: he was a good teacher. One of the things that the book of Leviticus has taught so far is that God gets us. He entered a covenant relationship with Israel, which included laws regarding how Israel should act toward Him and toward each other. However, He also knew that Israel was not going to be able to live up to their commitments. God provided a way for them to atone for sin so they could remain in fellowship with Him. As the Psalmist put it, God “knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust” (Ps. 103:14). Today’s reading describes the guilt offering (see also Lev. 7:1–10) to atone for three kinds of sins. First, if someone had profaned sacred property (5:15), for example, eating food dedicated to a priest or withholding a tithe or some other violation against the sanctuary. Second, it was offered if they unintentionally broke one of the Lord’s commands (v. 17). Third, for defrauding or deceiving another Israelite and lying about it under oath (6:1–3). In each instance, the person would offer a ram as a sacrifice to atone for their sin. They also needed to make restitution for the wrong they had committed. For example, defrauding a neighbor required a return of the value plus 20 percent in addition to the sacrifice. >> Isaiah 53 describes Jesus as our guilt offering. His death made possible the full forgiveness and atonement of sin (v. 10). Have you trusted in Jesus so that you can be made right with God?
While driving down a two-lane road in rural northern Michigan, I looked in my rearview mirror only to see flashing red lights. When the police officer pulled me over, he asked if I knew why. I honestly did not. He informed me that the speed limit had lowered to 35 mph because the road was approaching a small town. Unfortunately, my ignorance did not get me off the hook. Today’s reading describes the sin offering (see also Lev. 6:24–30). This offering was provided for two different situations, for unintentional sins or for ceremonial uncleanness (5:2–4). These laws reflect several important spiritual principles. First, the more responsibility a person had, the greater the consequences of their sin for the community. This principle is reflected in the size of the required offering of a high priest or leader in the community compared with a common person. Leaders have a greater potential to lead others astray and so are held to a higher standard (James 3:1). Second, the whole nation could be guilty of unintentional sin (Lev. 4:13). This may be difficult for those of us in a culture influenced by Western individualism to understand. But it is possible for a group of people to sin corporately, for example, Israel’s covenant with Gibeon without consulting the Lord (Josh. 9:14). Third, everyone needed to have their sin atoned through sacrifice, not just the leaders. To make provision for this, God accepted smaller offerings from those who had less means (Lev. 5:11–13). It was never about the size of the offering, but what it represented. The ritual had three steps: laying one’s hands on the offering, which included confession of sin (4:29; 16:21); presentation of the sacrifice; and receiving forgiveness (4:31). >> The same pattern holds true today. We can be forgiven if we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). The sacrifices in Leviticus point forward to Jesus, the once-for-all sacrifice for sin (Heb. 10:14). Spend time in confession today.
The only time I eat turkey and pumpkin pie is at Thanksgiving. It is my favorite holiday. Thanksgiving is one of the few times a year when our extended family is together without much of an agenda other than enjoying each other’s company. It is also a time to stop and give thanks to God for His blessings over the past year. The fellowship offering was unique for ancient Israel (read also Lev. 7:11–34). It could be an offering from any animal from the herd or flock without defect (vv. 1, 6). It was also the only offering where only a portion of it was consumed on the altar or by the priest. Most of the offering was enjoyed as a meal by the worshiper (7:15). Meat was expensive and would not have been an everyday food in ancient Israel. So, presenting a fellowship offering was a time of joyful celebration as the whole family would enjoy a meal together. I can imagine how excited children would be when they found out they were going as a family to offer a fellowship offering. This offering was given as an expression of thanksgiving (7:12, 15), for the fulfillment of a vow, or as a spontaneous freewill offering (7:16). This offering was a way for people in Israel to have table fellowship with each other in the presence of God. The order of the sacrifices in Leviticus is also significant. The whole burnt offering was presented first. That offering was for atonement for sin. The whole burnt offering made the fellowship offering possible. Only when sin has been atoned for can we have fellowship with God. That is one of the reasons this offering is joyful. In the New Testament, Jesus’ death on the cross provided our once-for-all atonement for sin, so we can enjoy fellowship with God. >> Even though it is April, why not have a special meal of thanksgiving? Give thanks to God for what He has done. Celebrate His love and goodness together!
On my office desk, I keep some homemade bookmarks, a gift from my daughter. She took some things she had lying around the house and created this lovely present. Each bookmark is decorated with pictures and quotes like, “just one more chapter...” or “fell asleep here.” In Israel, anyone could offer a gift to God. Today’s reading describes the grain offering (v. 1; see also Lev. 6:14–23). The Bible teaches that grain, wheat, and other produce is a gift from God (Ps. 65:9–13). The grain offering was a way for people to take this produce, work it with their hands, and offer it back to God. The offering itself was quite simple, wheat prepared with olive oil and incense (v. 2). It was to be baked without yeast or honey (v. 11). Later in Scripture we see leaven used to symbolize the pervasive nature of sin (Matt. 16:6; 1 Cor. 5:6–7). This could be a reason why it is prohibited here. The prohibition on date/honey could be instituted because it was used in Canaanite worship. Not only was this offering a way anyone could give to God, but it also provided for the priests. After a token portion was burned on the altar, the rest of it went to help feed the priests who worked in the tabernacle (vv. 2–3). The priests were not given any land in Israel to grow their own crops, so they were dependent on the offerings of the people (Deut. 18:1–4). One other element in this offering was salt (v. 13). Salt was primarily used to preserve food in the ancient world. Because of this preservative quality, it became a symbol of the enduring nature of God’s covenant with His people (Num. 18:19). God was committed to a permanent relationship with His people in a “covenant of salt.” >> Today, consider what you can give to God. Maybe you can offer Him praise (Heb. 13:15–16) or support ministry efforts (Phil. 4:18). After all, everything we own is already His!
Have you ever noticed how many people are involved in planning a church service? From people in the sound booth, to musicians, to building maintenance and ushers. When leading people in worship, it is important to get the details right. We see this type of attention to detail in Leviticus as well. Today’s reading covers the most foundational sacrifice, the whole- burnt offering. Unlike other offerings where a portion of the offering would support the priests or be given back to the worshiper as part of a celebration meal, in the whole-burnt offering the entire animal was consumed on the altar (see also Lev. 6:8–13). Imagine being present at such an offering. The crowd of worshipers would press forward toward the tabernacle. You would hear the animals being led toward the altar. You would see the priest examine each animal to ensure it met the requirements (v. 3). The animal’s hide would be warm to the touch as you rested your hand on its head (v. 4). Then the smell of the offering being consumed would fill the room. This was an experience that includes all five senses. This was also a worship experience that involved everyone; the rich (v. 5), middle class (v. 10), and poor (v. 14). The size of the offering did not matter as much as the heart of the worshiper (Ps. 69:30–31). The purpose of this offering was to provide atonement or payment for sin (v. 4). By placing your hand on the animal’s head, you identified yourself with the animal. You were noting that this animal was taking your place so that your sin could be symbolically covered, and you could be in fellowship with a holy God. >> This ritual pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice for sin, Jesus Christ (Eph 5:2). Jesus covered our sin once and for all for those who trust in Him. Just as the whole burnt offering was completely given to the Lord, we too are to hold nothing back (Rom. 12:1).
In church, we like to talk about what we were saved from. We were saved from sin and God’s judgment. But we don’t often stop to ask, “What were we saved for?” What has God called us to? The Bible from beginning to end describes how we were created to be in relationship with God and dwell in His presence. The end of Exodus (40:34–38) describes the cloud which represented the glory of God, filling the tabernacle (v. 34). This cloud would lead Israel through their journey to the Promised Land (v. 36). But there was a problem. God is holy and pure and cannot dwell among sinful people. How then could He dwell with Israel? After Israel’s sin with the golden calf, God told Moses, “Go up to [the] land...but I will not go up among you, lest I consume you on the way, for you are a stiff-necked people” (Ex. 33:3). But Moses would not accept that answer, and God agreed to continue to dwell with Israel (Ex. 33:12–16). However, for God to dwell among His people, He needed a way for their sin to be atoned and for His holiness to be protected. Israel would become like the burning bush, having the fire of God’s presence in their midst but not being consumed by it. The sacrifices and offerings outlined in great detail in Leviticus taught Israel about sin and God’s holiness. They would show them, and us, how precious it is to be in fellowship with God. The New Testament draws from the language and teaching of Leviticus. When we better understand the Old Testament view of sin and the requirements for sacrifice, we will better appreciate what Jesus achieved on the cross. >> What were you saved from? What are you saved for? As we begin this study of Leviticus, reflect on those two questions. It is our prayer that you will grow in your understanding of and relationship to our holy God.
One of my roles at Moody Bible Institute is to advise the student Literary Practicum Team. This group of ten students work together to produce two major publications. At the beginning of every year, I tell them that I am just as interested in their teamwork as I am in their creations. And, while there are always bumps along the way, it is always rewarding when they present the two books knowing they did together what not one of them could have done independently. In his letter to the Philippian church, Paul stressed the importance of unity in the body of Christ. While our reading centers on Philippians 4:1–9, I encourage you to read through the entire book if you have time. Paul raises the theme in 1:27–30. Believers should “[strive] together as one for the faith of the gospel.” Through harmony, they could face opposition without fear (1:28). What’s true in physics is true in the church: cohesion builds strength. Paul continued in chapter 2, reminding them that Christ alone was the source of unity (2:1). Paul instructed them to put aside their selfish motives and to value one another above themselves (2:3). With all this talk about unity, it might be surprising that Paul concludes the letter by mentioning two women who were in conflict: Euodia and Syntyche. He pleads with them to “be of the same mind in the Lord” (4:2). Paul was gentle but clear. He acknowledged their work for the gospel cause. And he asked a third party to step in as mediator. Why should believers strive to live in unity? So the gospel can go forward and that “the peace of God that transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (v. 7) >> Are you in conflict with another believer? Do everything you can (even calling in a mediator) to resolve this disagreement, for the good of the gospel and to experience the peace that only God can give!
In December 1999, my husband and I honeymooned in Athens and took a day trip over to Corinth. We even drove up to the ruins of the Acrocorinth with ancient columns from the Temple of Aphrodite. Acts 18 recounts the transition from Paul’s second to third missionary journey. He left Athens and went to Corinth on his own, the final stop on his second itinerary. Ancient Corinth was strategically located, with an eastern and western port. It was the largest city of the Roman empire with 200,000 residents (20 times more than Athens). The main north-south roads converged here. It was a prosperous city and the worship center for Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Her temple was home to a thousand temple prostitutes, which provides context for the love chapter in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 13). When Paul arrived at Corinth, he was weak and fearful (1 Cor. 2:3). The work had been arduous. But he was quickly welcomed into the home of fellow-tentmakers, Priscilla and Aquila. Paul stayed with them, making tents during the week and preaching the gospel on the Sabbath in the synagogue to the Jews, and also to the Greeks. Paul’s focus shifted, however, when the Jews of Corinth became abusive. In response, Paul “shook out his clothes in protest” and turned his attention solely to the Gentiles—with surprising response. Crispus, the synagogue ruler believed, as did many Corinthians (v. 8). The ministry was so fruitful that Paul stayed in Corinth for almost two years. In that time, he had developed a deep and trusting relationship with Priscilla and Aquila, so much so that he took them along as he began his third missionary journey. The three sailed first to Ephesus, where Paul left the couple to serve as teachers and guardians of the gospel. >> Ministry isn’t meant to be done solo. We need partners in the mission who can strengthen us when we’re weak and share with us in the work.
Wherever we preach the gospel, we should not be surprised to encounter opposition—whether on the foreign mission field or in our own hometown. Jesus Himself faced hostility. And, as we see in the book of Acts, so did Paul. Today’s story sits side by side with the joyful conversion of Lydia and her household (vv. 11–15). The two narratives are opposite in every way. While Lydia was a woman of wealth and status, this young girl was a slave, controlled by an evil spirit and exploited by her owners. The spirit of divination enabled her to predict the future, a skill by which her owners earned much money. This spirit also recognized the divine source of Paul’s message, so that the girl followed Paul around town shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God” (v. 17). Ironically, she wasn’t wrong. Yet, while Lydia’s testimony resulted in her family’s conversion, this girl’s proclamation was only irritating. For three days, Paul tried to be patient, but this was not the sort of publicity that he wanted. So finally, on the third day, he called on Christ’s authority and ordered the spirit to leave. Her owners were furious, seized Paul and Silas, and dragged them into court. The charge was “advocating customs not lawful for us Romans” (v. 21), a serious offense which required legal action. While Lydia had welcomed Paul’s team into her comfortable home, the magistrates ordered Paul and Silas to be stripped and severely beaten and thrown into a maximum-security prison cell without a trial (vv. 22–23). Humanly speaking, this was the direst of circumstances. But the rest of the story (vv. 25–40) reveals how God used it to display His glory and to reach even darker places with the gospel. >> Are you facing opposition? When you stand up for Jesus, do not be surprised to experience mockery, criticism, or even anger. Be faithful to the message, knowing that God is on your side!
People with the gift of hospitality know how to make others feel welcome, comfortable, and special. They create beautiful gathering spaces. They plan, prepare, and serve delicious food. But most of all, they know how to make people feel welcome and loved. Shortly after Timothy joined his missionary team, Paul received a vision of a man, begging him: “Come over to Macedonia and help us” (16:9). So, Paul took his team, and they went. Because Luke himself was on this trip, his detailed travel log is a firsthand account (v. 11). After a long journey across the Aegean Sea, they landed in the port of Neapolis and traveled ten miles inland to Philippi. On the Sabbath, the team went to the river to find a place for prayer. The term “place of prayer” typically referred to a synagogue, but no synagogue had been established, since it required ten men. Instead, the women would gather at the river to pray. One of the first converts was Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman and seller of purple cloth. Luke wrote of her conversion. “The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message” (v. 14). While Paul faithfully shared the gospel, God was the true evangelist. Following Lydia’s lead, everyone in her household was baptized, perhaps even her employees. One person can influence a whole family! This happens multiple times in Acts—an entire household comes to Christ because of one initial conversion. Lydia then invited Paul’s team to stay at her home. She saw his visit as confirmation of her faith. Paul often established a homebase when he went to a new town, and Lydia’s house became that, so much so that he returned there with Silas after they came out of prison (v. 40). >> How can we become people known for hospitality? Perhaps it is by allowing people to stay in your home. Or maybe you can gift them with a meal. In what ways might God use your hospitality for the sake of the gospel?
What role do grandparents play in a child’s life? Often, they are known for spoiling their grandkids. But they can play a key role. Through prayer, words, and example, they can pass on their faith to the next generation. In In today’s reading, we meet Timothy whose faith was shaped by his mother and grandmother. Paul and Barnabas had just finished their first missionary journey, and the Jerusalem Council was convened (Acts 15). The discussion centered around circumcision and its connection to salvation. The decision was not to impose the law on Gentile believers. After the Council, while preparing to return to missionary travels, Paul and Barnabas differed in their strategy and agreed to part ways. Paul took Silas and headed to Syria and Cilicia. In Lystra, they met Timothy. Timothy’s mother Eunice was a Jewish believer, and his father was Greek. Paul wanted to add him to their team. There was, however, the matter of circumcision. Timothy was half-Jew, and the Jews in that area would have known that. It may have been a barrier to the gospel, so, despite the Council’s decision, Paul asked Timothy to be circumcised. The fact that Timothy agreed is further testimony to his character and heart of obedience. Timothy became a significant ministry partner for Paul. They worked closely together (Acts 18:5; 19:22). And the apostle sent Timothy on individual missions (1 Thess. 3:1–6). Paul even wrote two of his epistles directly to this “true son in the faith” (1 Tim. 1:2). In 2 Timothy 1:3–5, Paul opens his second letter by once again commending Timothy’s faith. He also acknowledges the key role that Timothy’s mother Eunice and grandmother Lois played in his discipleship. Their sincere faith had become Timothy’s own. >> Grandparents and parents aren’t the only ones who can help pass down their faith to the next generation. Are you investing in people younger than yourself? What is one way you can strengthen their faith in Jesus?
Did you know that Random Acts of Kindness Day is February 17? The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation provides ideas on how to make kindness the norm in society. If such an organization were present in Tabitha’s day, she might have been a founding member! We meet Tabitha, also called Dorcas in Greek, at the close of Acts 9. Peter was traveling, visiting “the Lord’s people” (v. 32). He served in a pastoral role for new believers and his healing ministry in Lydda and Joppa opened the gospel door to the Gentiles. When Peter arrived in Lydda, he met Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for years. We don’t know if he was a follower of Jesus, but Peter called on Christ’s power to heal the man. Immediately, Aeneas rose. God used that miracle to bring to the Lord “all those who lived in Lydda and Sharon” (v. 35). Healing often played an evangelistic role but happened also within the Christian community. In verse 36, we are told of Tabitha, who is identified as a “disciple,” known for her devotion to helping the poor. She was well loved. While Peter was still in Lydda, Tabitha died, and the disciples sent for him, believing he could help. When he arrived, Tabitha’s home was filled with widows. They were weeping and showing off the robes she had made for them. Tabitha’s body had already been prepared for burial. However, with authority, Peter followed the protocol Jesus had used with Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5:21–43). He asked everyone to leave the room. He knelt and prayed. Then he said to the dead woman, “Tabitha, get up” (v. 40). She opened her eyes and sat up. Tabitha’s resurrection became huge news, and “many people believed in the Lord” (v. 42). >> Are you known for your kindness? As believers we are called to do good and to be kind. But unlike the world’s view, this is not random kindness. Rather, our kindness, as Christians, should always point people to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Are you a truth-teller? We all like to think of ourselves as honest, but sometimes it is difficult to speak truth to others, to ourselves, and even to God. Today’s reading provides a shocking caution against telling lies. In Acts 4:32–36, Luke painted an idyllic picture of believers living in unity. The early church shared everything. If anyone sold property, the apostles would collect and distribute the funds to people in need. Luke provided the example of Barnabas, who sold his field and donated the proceeds (v. 36). In Acts 5:1–11, Ananias and Sapphira wanted the same admiration Barnabas had enjoyed. They, too, sold a piece of property. However, instead of donating the entire amount, they kept part of the money for themselves. Ananias brought some of the money to the apostles. Immediately, the Holy Spirit revealed the deception to Peter who accused Ananias of allowing Satan to “fill” (“control” or “influence”) his heart (v. 3). Ananias not only lied to the apostles, he lied to God (v. 4). Ananias’s giving was not compulsory. God hadn’t demanded it; nor had the apostles. The land had been his to do with as he pleased. So had been the money. Ananias’s sin wasn’t keeping back funds; it was faking generosity. He had lied against God. In Ananias, we see the dangerous progression of sin. Envy led to pride; pride to greed; greed to lies. Instantaneously, Ananias died. The young men removed his body and buried it. Three hours later, Sapphira arrived, unaware of her husband’s death. Peter questioned her too. Foolishly, she lied as Ananias had done. She also died. Luke wrote that “great fear seized the whole church [ekklesia]” (v. 11). This fear was appropriate, a fear of displeasing the holy God. >> Sapphira’s story teaches us to take sin seriously. We must always seek to be honest before God and live a life that is open and truthful. Spend some time today in confession. What do you need to bring before God today?
Mary was not only the mother of Jesus, she was His disciple. In the book of Acts, Luke continues the story of Jesus. During Jesus’ 40 resurrected days on earth, He appeared to the apostles and gave them many “convincing proofs that He was alive” (v. 3). The accuracy of this evidence mattered to Luke. Jesus promised the apostles the gift of the Holy Spirit and instructed them to wait in Jerusalem for this baptism (vv. 4–5). Finally, He commissioned them as His witnesses and ascended “before their very eyes” into the clouds (v. 9). The apostles left the Mount of Olives and walked back to their upper room in Jerusalem. There, they could talk and pray away from the street- level crowds. Luke listed the men by name—the same disciples as in Luke 6:14–16, excepting Judas Iscariot. Luke also continued his practice of honoring women by acknowledging their presence, though not by name. As we have seen, faithful women served Jesus during His ministry and were with Him at His death. Certainly, it makes sense that they were present at the beginning of the Church. Mary is mentioned by name in verse 14, her only appearance in the book of Acts. It is a fitting finish to her biblical story. Luke presented her as a model of trust and obedience in his gospel record. She experienced the greatest joys and sorrows motherhood can bring. And through it all, she was a disciple of her own Son. Interestingly, Jesus’ brothers were also there. Their unbelief from six months prior (John 7:5) must have been reversed. Jesus appeared to James after His resurrection (1 Cor. 15:7). Perhaps that was the impetus for his (and other brothers’) belief. >> This group “all joined together constantly in prayer” (v. 14). Constantly means “resolutely, persistently, even obstinately.” A community is made strong by prayer. Do you have a prayer group? Maybe today is a good time to begin one.
Very early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene and other women returned to the garden to complete the burial. On Friday, after Jesus died, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus had placed His body in a tomb. By Jewish custom, the body should be buried by sundown. As a devoted follower, Mary had been a first-hand witness of the crucifixion (Matt. 27:55–56). Her devotion ran deep as Jesus had cast seven demons from her (Luke 8:1–3). We can only imagine her dismay when she arrived at the tomb to find the stone rolled away. She ran to tell Peter and John who bolted to the garden. When they saw the burial clothes folded and purposely placed, John believed (v. 8). After the disciples left, Mary lingered, taking advantage of the solitude to grieve with tears. Eventually, she peered into the tomb and saw two angels where the body had been. When they asked her why she wept, she told them, “They have taken my Lord away” (v. 13). She turned and saw a man who had a question of His own: “Who is it you are looking for?” (v. 15). Perhaps it was still dark or her eyes were blinded by tears because she thought He was the gardener and had moved the body. “Tell me where you have put him, and I will get him” (v. 15). Then, Jesus uttered her name: “Mary.” Imagine the love in His tone! Full of joy and awe, she responded: “Rabboni” (v. 16). Jesus gave Mary an important mission—to go and tell the disciples: “I have seen the Lord!” That Jesus chose Mary for this assignment is astounding. Women were rarely trusted with significant work. They were not typically messengers. They couldn’t serve as legal witnesses. What made Mary credible? That she sought and served her Savior. >> Hebrews 11:6 says that God “rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Mary went to the tomb seeking Jesus, and He met her there, forever changing her life. Seek Jesus today as you read His Word and pray.
Mary is standing at the foot of the cross. We can only imagine how her mother’s heart suffered to see Jesus beaten severely and bleeding profusely. He was forced to carry His own crossbeam until Roman soldiers seized Simon of Cyrene and ordered him to help. The destination was “Calvary,” on a public roadway near Jerusalem. On either side of Jesus, a criminal was crucified. The inscription over His head, intended as mockery, read “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews” (v. 19). Written in three languages, the inadvertent testimony of truth would be read by thousands of Jews, passing by for the Passover. Matthew, Mark, and Luke each recorded that many women followed Jesus to the cross, mourning and wailing (Luke 23:27). John listed only a specific four: Mary His mother, His mother’s sister, Mary wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene (v. 25). John noted his own presence as “the disciple whom He loved” (v. 26). Each Gospel writer documented certain final words of Jesus. But only John recounted this final act of familial love: When Jesus looked down and saw Mary’s sorrow, He said, “Woman [using the respectful address again], here is your son” (v. 26). Speaking to John, He said, “Here is your mother” (v. 27). Jesus’ brothers had abandoned Him (7:1–5). Joseph had likely died. Mary had supported Jesus throughout His ministry and to this traumatic end, but she was about to be left alone. Jesus was telling John to care for her as his own. “From that time on, [John] took her into his home” (v. 27). Knowing that all things had been accomplished and Scripture had been fulfilled, He requested a drink. When He received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” and gave up His spirit. >> As we encounter the cross through Mary’s eyes—the person who probably loved Him most—we can feel the pain He endured in palpable ways. We grieve, yet not without hope.
We perceive the world through the five senses that God has given us. And worship, as God ordained it in both the Old and New Testaments, was a multi-sensory experience. Consider the Lord’s Supper, baptism, sacrifices, and feasts. Maybe our modern worship services could benefit by giving us more to see and touch and even smell. The Passover was only two days away. Up to three million people may have come to Jerusalem for the festivities that year. The chief priests and scribes were nervous. They had witnessed Jesus’ popularity. They risked a riot if they made a public arrest. So, they doubled down on their plan to seize Jesus secretly. That afternoon Jesus left the crowd and retreated to Bethany, this time to the home of Simon the leper. When a prominent person visited a home, it was customary to leave the door ajar, so others could join the gathering. While Jesus was reclining at the table, a woman entered with a jar of very expensive perfume. She went to Jesus, broke the vial—demonstrating the totality of the gift—and poured it over His head. This was far beyond normal courtesy. Jesus would have been drenched. The sweet fragrance would have filled the room. It was a bold, extravagant, sensory- filled expression of love. Some people, possibly even the disciples, scolded (“snorted” or “roared”) the woman. They thought she wasted the perfume. It could have been sold and given to the poor. But Jesus defended her and called her act beautiful. He questioned their concerns. Devotion to Him must outweigh all material matters. He connected her act to His impending death, and He promised her a place of prominence in the gospel proclamation. >> This woman’s love for Jesus spilled over with an extravagant gesture. Many of us have spoiled the people we love with over-the-top gifts. Have we ever done the same for God? How can you give to God extravagantly?
In his epistle, James warns us about playing favorites. If a wealthy person comes to church with gold rings and fancy attire, we should not give that person preferential treatment over someone in shabby clothes. “Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?” (James 2:5). The message of the widow and her two mites is similar. God’s economy is drastically different from ours. At the beginning of Mark 11, Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem to the people’s resounding praise. The next morning, when He returned to the Temple, He drove out the money changers because they had turned the house of worship into a den of thieves. At the end of His time in the Temple, Jesus sat across from the treasury in the Court of Women, where many rich people donated large sums of money. Their wealth was evident to all by the clang of their offering as it was thrown into the bell. Eventually, a poor widow shuffled by and dropped into the coffer two copper coins (lepta), the smallest Greek coins, worth 1/64th of a denarius. Each day, the Temple authorities gave this amount to the poor, so they could buy bread. This poor widow was giving her bread allowance back to God. When Jesus noticed her, He gathered His disciples. He praised the poor widow for giving “all she had to live on.” While the religious leaders probably preferred the large gifts, many were given out of abundance and self-sufficiency. The widow demonstrated radical trust in God to provide her daily bread. She gave out of devotion, dependency, and faith. >> What do we choose to give? How much do we give? This passage challenges us to check our own giving and our attitude toward wealth. Spend time thinking about your relationship to money. How can you give “all” to Jesus?
Do you long to be heard? From the moment we are born, we want someone to answer our cries and meet our needs. It’s a fundamental human desire that we see Jesus meet again and again. In John 11, Jesus clearly heard the desperate request of Martha and Mary. “Lord, the one you love is sick,” they cried. But even though Jesus heard (vv. 4, 6), He did not hurry. He lingered for two whole days, a terribly long time in a life-or-death situation. Jesus then revealed the motivation behind this delay: “It is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it” (v. 4). Jesus longed for that glory to lead people to belief (vv. 14–15). When Jesus finally arrived at their home, Mary and Martha both expressed their disappointment. They believed He was the Christ and could have prevented Lazarus’s death. They did not yet understand that He was able to reverse it. Jesus wanted to reveal more of Himself to them—His ultimate, eternal power over death. He told Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies” (v. 25). Clearly, Jesus empathized with their pain. He was deeply moved (v. 33), and He wept (v. 35). Then He ordered the stone to be rolled away from the tomb, and despite Martha’s concern about the odor, He prayed to His Father and called forth life. At its core, this is a love story. Jesus’ abiding affection for this family is declared repeatedly (vv. 3, 5, 36). And even though you and I don’t always get a Lazarus ending this side of heaven, we can always trust His love. >> This passage reveals so much about Jesus! He hears, even when He doesn’t hurry. He empathizes with our pain. His glory is on display if we have eyes to see. It should move us to belief. He loves us and longs to give us life.
Hester Prynne in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter wore a red “A” for most of her adult life as penance for her sin of adultery. While Hester carried that public condemnation, her lover, the young minister Arthur Dimmesdale, suffered in secrecy and died in shame. In Deuteronomy 22, the law stated that unfaithful wives should lose their lives, but the method was not prescribed. (The Mishnah specified strangling.) When an engaged woman was unfaithful, the woman and the man should be stoned. Consequently, many Bible commentators conclude that the woman in John 8 was engaged. When the scribes and Pharisees arrived at the Temple, Jesus was teaching. They presented the woman caught in adultery, appealed to the law, and demanded a judgment. The case was fishy. Presumably, if they caught the woman, they also knew her partner. Where was he? Clearly, they were less concerned with justice and more interested in setting a snare for Jesus. Would He disregard the law and destroy His credibility? Or uphold the law and ruin His reputation of compassion? Forced to choose between justice and grace, what would Jesus do? He stooped and wrote in the dirt. We don’t know what He wrote, but when Jesus did speak, He referenced Deuteronomy 13:9 and 17:7, which says the accusers of a crime should throw the first stones. Jesus added that they should be without sin. The scribes and Pharisees were silenced. One by one, they shuffled away. When they were gone, Jesus called her “Woman,” the same respectful term He used for His mother in John 2. Then He released her from condemnation, absolved her sin, and set her free. >> The scribes and Pharisees reveal our own tendency to pass judgment and condemn. The woman shows our struggle with shame. Jesus shows us life-altering forgiveness and an opportunity for new life.
Often one of our children (ages 11 and 14) still complains that he or she is being treated differently. Someone had to do a chore that the other did not. One of them received more screen time or ice cream or rides in the front seat. Sadly, even grown-ups can play the comparison game. This brief scene in Bethany is recorded only by Luke. Jesus and His disciples had arrived in the Jerusalem area, and as He prepared His followers for what was to come, He delivered some intense training on key aspects of the faith. He was likely doing some such teaching at the home of Mary and Martha, sisters to Lazarus, when this conversation took place. Ironically, as He lectured on discipleship, the two sisters provided a perfect and living illustration. Martha worked intently on the preparations involved with hosting an important person like Jesus. She wanted to show Him the honor He was due. By contrast, Mary took the opportunity to sit at His feet and absorb His every word. When Martha asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her, she assumed He would affirm her critique and come to her aid. The original Greek wording indicates her confident expectation. Jesus’ response was gentle, but firm. “My dear, dear Martha.” He rebuked her—tenderly—for her trivial concerns and her unnecessary focus on comparison. Jesus did not criticize her work, only her expectation that Mary must join. Mary provided the flesh- and-blood example of devoted discipleship that Jesus was asking for. It was also significant that Jesus deemed a woman to be worthy of His teaching. In that first-century culture, women did not often receive an education. That Jesus publicly affirmed her= choice was no small compliment. >> It’s tempting for us, as well, to serve at the expense of being fed. We can unfairly evaluate the focus of others and compare them to ourselves. May we prioritize our own heart and soul nourishment, even over service.
In every country, every nation, and maybe even in your town, there are places most people avoid. The people who live in those communities don’t mingle with the rest of society. These places are often marked by crime and darkness. Yet many churches and ministries move into those areas to shine the light of the gospel. Not long after He fed the five thousand, Jesus withdrew to Gentile territory. He had been rejected by His own in Nazareth. His cousin John had been killed by Herod. The religious leaders were escalating their opposition. So, the plan was to go through the Gentile region, into Judea, and ultimately to Jerusalem. Near the infamous pagan cities of Tyre and Sidon, Jesus and His disciples encountered a Canaanite woman. In the Old Testament, the Canaanites were the most wicked and despised of Israel’s enemies. Much of that cultural tension remained in Jesus’ day. Despite her reputation, the woman approached Jesus. She repeatedly called Him “Lord,” and begged Him for mercy (v. 22). Her daughter was demon possessed, and she was desperate. She showed her familiarity with Messianic prophesy by calling Jesus the “Son of David.” Just three miles away was the pagan temple to Eshmun, a god of healing. This woman was surely familiar with this place. Yet she chose to come to Jesus. When Jesus did not immediately acknowledge her request, His disciples assumed He would send her away. Instead, Jesus engaged her in banter during which He maintained His commitment to reach Israel (“lost sheep”). She told him that even the Gentiles (“dogs”) would be blessed by the Jewish Messiah (vv. 26–27). Her answer showed her faith. Jesus affirmed her belief and healed her daughter. >> Are there people or places you see as beyond the reach of the gospel? Ask God how He wants you or your church to serve them. No one is beyond His love or reach, and many are searching for the hope only He can bring!
In one week, all four members of our family became sick. As hard as I tried to keep all the balls in the air, several dropped. It’s humbling to realize how fragile and fallible we really are. It is hard to admit we have needs that we can’t meet ourselves. Self-sufficiency is a stubborn and sneaky (dare I say?) sin, a particularly problematic form of pride. Today’s passage is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospels. The story occurs at a ministry low point for Jesus. He had been rejected by His hometown (Matt. 13:53–58) and His cousin had been killed (14:1–12). The opposition against Him was escalating. Jesus withdrew by boat to a solitary place. The implication is that He needed some time to mourn, to attune His heart with His Father’s, and to gather the spiritual strength for His next phase of ministry. The only hiccup was that Jesus was still very popular. Crowds followed Him on shore and were waiting when He landed at a remote spot along the coast. Only Matthew explains that the estimate of 5,000 did not include the women and children who were also there, so the actual crowd may have been 10,000 or more (v. 21). Despite His own desire for solitude, Jesus moved among them with compassion and healed the sick. When evening was near, the disciples approached Jesus. The people were hungry, so the disciples recommended that He send them away into the nearby villages to purchase food (v. 15). Jesus, however, said the people should stay. He intended to feed them Himself. Taking their limited resources, He miraculously multiplied them into an abundance. Everyone ate and was satisfied, and they collected twelve baskets filled with leftovers. >> Our Savior knows our needs. He knows you are human, hungry, and helpless. Even so, He looks at you with love. Are you feeling empty today? Look to Jesus. He alone can satisfy your deepest needs.
In today’s world, the Christian commitment to holiness runs counter to cultural trends. Politicians, pastors, and others who speak up for biblical truth do so knowing that they will face public ridicule. But this is nothing new. In Matthew 14, two women played a very different role in the Gospel narrative. Jesus was nearing the end of His two-year ministry in Galilee, and news of His growing popularity had reached even the highest-level ruler—Herod Antipas, tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. Herod had established his capital in Tiberias, eight miles down the coast from Capernaum, where Jesus had made His ministry base. We can be sure he kept an eye on Jesus’ activities. Herod came to a curious conclusion. “This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead!” This seemingly came from superstition, rumor, and fear. Matthew takes this opportunity to explain what happened to John. Herod had likely taken John into custody a full year and a half prior to this account. Just as Jesus had begun challenging the religious leaders, John had publicly condemned Herod’s problematic and incestuous marriage. Herodias had been his brother’s wife and the daughter of his older half-brother. Herod arrested John in response. While imprisoned, John received reports about Jesus’ ministry from his own disciples (Matt.11:2–6). Jesus sent John a personal confirmation of His identity. Then, on Herod’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias (Salome) danced at the party. Herod was so pleased that he promised her anything. Herodias, full of hatred toward John, seized the opportunity for revenge. Upon her mother’s prompting, Salome asked for John’s head on a platter. After John’s disciples buried his body, they went immediately to find Jesus and tell Him the news. >> Standing up for biblical truth will probably not make you popular. In fact, it can often come at a cost. Many will say they believe in Jesus, but fewer will risk much on His behalf.
One of my favorite writing professors always said, “Sometimes in order to tell one story well, you need to tell two.” Two stories, told side by side, create a deeper meaning than either could convey on its own. In Mark chapter 5, the stories of Jairus’s daughter and a hemorrhaging woman are told as a pair. We are meant to understand them together. But why? In many ways, Jairus and the bleeding woman were as different as could be. Jairus was a respected leader in the synagogue, educated, comfortable, a family man. The bleeding woman was destitute, unclean, and isolated. What they had in common, though, was their need for Jesus and their belief in His power. Both came to Him—humbly—with hope that He could heal. And Jesus gave them equal attention. In fact, Jesus interrupted His visit to Jairus’s dying daughter when the woman touched His hem. Instantly, she felt in her body that she was well and tried to slip away unnoticed. But Jesus sought her out and listened as she told Him (trembling) “the whole truth” (v. 33). Luke 8:47 adds that this was a public proclamation: “In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed.” Then Jesus said: “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering” (v. 34). The address “daughter” implied an intimate, provisional, loving relationship and a commitment to care. Jesus commended her faith. He offered her complete peace, freedom, and healing: social, emotional, spiritual. While Jesus was still speaking to the woman, He received word that Jairus’s daughter had died. But this provided Him an opportunity to raise her from the dead and display His power on another level. >> Are you in need of the healing work of Jesus? Maybe your ailment is physical, maybe it is emotional or spiritual. Bow humbly and hopefully at His feet. Bring your wounds to Jesus today. Touch His hem and believe.
As a college professor, I’ve witnessed many tearful “good-byes” between parents and their children. Most parents worry when sending their child, even one who is nearing adulthood, into the unknown. In today’s passage, we again meet Jesus’ mother Mary. As word about Jesus had spread across the region and His crowd of followers had grown, the response was not entirely favorable (Mark 3:2, 6). Religious authorities sent a delegation to discredit and defame Him. “He is possessed by Beelzebul! By the prince of demons he is driving out demons” (v. 22). Jesus did not shy away from these confrontations. Just as He had answered the Pharisees’ questions in Mark chapter 2, He boldly addressed these accusers by challenging their logic. “How can Satan drive out Satan?” (v. 23). His parable pointed out the absurdity of their claim. Jesus’ mother and brothers heard of His growing influence and the escalating opposition. They were afraid and went to find Him and bring Him home. We don’t know the state of Mary’s heart. At least some of His family members thought Jesus was “out of His mind” (v. 21). Mary may have gone along because she was worried about her son. The brothers may have wanted to protect Jesus from danger, but they also may have feared that the controversy would affect their family. When they arrived at the scene, the crowd prevented them from reaching Jesus. They had to send their message like a game of telephone. But when Jesus learned of their presence, His response was shockingly countercultural. “Who are my mother and my brothers?” In a society where the family was the basis of social and economic life, Jesus asserted that the greater connection was a common dedication to God. >> Our earthly families are certainly a gift to us, but Jesus’ response encourages us to deepen our bonds within the family of God. What steps might you take to strengthen your connection with fellow believers?
Have you noticed through this study how much Jesus cared for women? Time and again, He met them personally and changed them profoundly. Luke 7 tells the story of the widow of Nain. Jesus and His disciples went from Capernaum to Nain, a journey about 20 miles to the southwest. By this time, a large crowd was following Him. As they approached the town gate, a funeral procession was passing by. The body would have been wrapped in cloth and carried on a burial plank. The mother and many mourners followed. Jesus learned that the dead person was the only son of a widow. Scripture tells us that when Jesus saw her, His heart filled with compassion (v. 13). A widow without children would have been utterly alone, devoid of provision or protection. Then He did a shocking thing. He stopped the funeral procession (a breach of Jewish custom) and said to the woman, “Don’t cry” (v. 13). Everyone must have wondered Who is this man and what is He doing!? Jesus touched the coffin (an act of Jewish uncleanness) and said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” (v. 14). To everyone’s amazement, the son immediately sat up and spoke. Then, Jesus personally reunited him with his mom. While the raising of Jairus’s daughter happened in the family’s home, this resurrection occurred at a city gate in plain view of the public. Luke says the bystanders were “filled with awe and praised God” (v. 16). They called Him a prophet. Although they recognized that God was working through Him, they did not yet realize that Jesus was God Himself. Even so, news of His work continued to spread. >> The passage can challenge us in many ways: to make up our own mind regarding the identity of Jesus, to worship and praise Him for His healing work. It also should motivate us to spread the good news of what He has done.
It seems that almost every day we hear of a loved one who has been stricken by illness or disease. Maybe it is even you. Today’s devotional reminds us that God holds all power over our hearts and our bodies. It is always appropriate to turn to Him for healing. In the early days of Jesus’ ministry, John the Baptist was in prison, and Jesus began to publicly proclaim the good news of God. He invited everyone who heard to repent and believe. His first official act was to call four fishermen as disciples—Simon, Andrew, James, and John. Jesus took these new recruits to the synagogue of Capernaum, where He began to teach. The people were amazed by His authority. Immediately, Jesus sparked opposition. An evil spirit, who knew Who Jesus was and why He came, addressed Him directly, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!” (v. 24). Jesus rebuked the spirit, and it left the man. If the people were already amazed by Jesus’ teaching, imagine their response to this dramatic miracle. Word spread quickly throughout the region. After this very public presentation, Jesus was likely looking to be refreshed in the home of Simon and Andrew. But Simon Peter’s mother-in-law was sick with fever, a serious illness with supernatural implications. Jesus took her hand; “the fever left her” is a mild translation. The strength of the literal verb (“forsook, hurl, release”) may indicate that this fever had been induced by demons. This is the first record of a physical healing by Jesus in Mark’s Gospel. And the story is repeated in three Gospels. Why? Perhaps because immediately after she was healed, she began to serve. Once bed-ridden, she was now a committed follower of Jesus. >> What is our response to answered prayer? Do we quickly forget? Instead, like Peter’s mother-in-law, let it spur us on to service, giving God the glory with our testimony.
We all wear labels—labels related to our relationships, our occupations, our hobbies, our virtues, even our flaws. Some are a source of pride; other we try to shed. What are some of your labels? One afternoon, a Samaritan woman went to the well. She likely went during the heat of the day to avoid her community since she carried significant shame. She must have been startled to find a Jewish man there, and more surprised when He asked her for a drink. “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman,” she answered (v. 9). Notice that she led with their labels and believed the lie that came with them. But Jesus responded with truth and grace. He focused on His identity and His gift for her (v. 10). The woman’s interest was piqued, and her longing revealed. Yet she continued to question Him. “You have nothing to draw with,” she pointed out. “Are you greater than our father Jacob?” (vv. 11, 12). While she focused on physical things like the missing jug and deep well, Jesus wanted to satisfy her spiritual thirst and give her eternal life. When the woman finally asked for this water, Jesus told her to get her husband. When she replied that she had none, Jesus demonstrated that He knew everything about her. He called her to truth and offered her grace all over again. When the woman declared that she knew that the Messiah would come, Jesus proclaimed, “I who speak to you am he” (v. 26). Just one conversation with Jesus changed the Samaritan woman’s life. She left the well, sought out her community, relished being known by Jesus, and was used by Him to bring others to faith. >> What are your labels? What lies do you believe? And what longings do you have that are never satisfied? Bring them all to Jesus and receive the Living Water He offers. Your life will never be the same again.
Several years ago, I studied the biblical record of Mary from beginning to end. I looked at every passage where she is mentioned and traced her path as a woman, mother, and then disciple of her own son. Despite her extraordinary role in God’s redemptive plan, she was also utterly human. Mary was likely serving at the Cana wedding, which Jesus and His disciples were attending. Cana was not far from Nazareth, so it might have been the marriage of a family member or close friend. Weddings were important events in Jewish community life and often lasted for several days. The standard for hospitality was high, so when the host ran out of wine, it would have been humiliating. Mary stepped up with some creative problem solving. She went to Jesus and told Him, “They have no more wine” (v. 3). The subtext was that He should do something about it. She knew He could perform a miracle. She was ready for the public display of His power; Jesus was not. Jesus’ response of “woman” may sound disrespectful in English, but it was simply a formal address. Mary’s request had presumed upon Jesus as her son, so He respectfully redefined their relationship yet again. He would not act under her direction, but only in submission to God. Some sort of silent communication must have passed between them though. Maybe a look or a nod, because, despite Jesus’ response, Mary instructed the servants to do everything Jesus said. Then Jesus told the servants to fill six stone jars with water and turned it into 120 gallons of the best wedding wine. John called this event a “sign through which he revealed his glory” (v. 11). Through it, Jesus was doing more than merely displaying His power. He also revealed His identity, and His disciples responded with faith. >> As we continue our study, we will see many of the women respond to Jesus in faith. Pray that your own faith would be strengthened as you witness their transforming encounters with our Savior.
When boys reach adolescence, they feel a growing need to assert their autonomy. As they drive toward independence, their mothers cling to closeness and sometimes the mother-son relationship stretches and shifts. In Jesus’ time, the cultural expectation was that at age thirteen, Jewish boys would be considered an “adult,” officially responsible for their actions. To prepare for this momentous occasion, they received intense instruction during their twelfth year. Jesus may have been in the middle of such training at the time of today’s passage, when Jesus’ family traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover. That year, when Mary and Joseph started the journey home to Nazareth, Jesus stayed behind in the Temple. A whole day had passed before they discovered His absence! Imagine the shock and concern his parents felt. They returned to Jerusalem and looked everywhere for their son. Three days later, they found Him in the Temple, intently listening to the teachers and asking questions. His exceptional understanding of the law was evident to all, but Mary was not impressed. She immediately unleashed her anxiety, calling His actions a personal affront (“Why have you treated us like this?”). She said they had been “anxiously searching” for Him, revealing her deep mental anguish and pain (v. 58). Her comments won’t seem unusual to any parent who has experienced the trauma of searching for a child. Jesus responded with twelve-year-old boldness. He articulated a growing understanding of His own identity and mission (v. 52). The time was approaching when He would step out on His own to do the work that God had set for Him. Mary added these events to the others that she stored up in her heart. >> This passage will strike a chord with all parents, teachers, and mentors as we train the next generation. We must do our part in raising them to love and know God, then we release them to God, trusting them to His care and service.
My mother-in-law, a widow who lives in England, loves Jesus more than anyone else I know. Not long ago, Mum was diagnosed with cancer. Of course, my husband Peter and I were deeply concerned. But Mum? She was excited. “Cancer has given me greater boldness!” she exclaimed on a video call. Then she shared several stories of how she had proclaimed the gospel with more courage than ever before. In many ways, Mum has followed in the footsteps of Anna. Anna had been widowed after only seven years of marriage, and when she met the baby Jesus, she was “very old” (v. 37). Some commentators explain that she might have been as old as 106—having married around age 15, lived with her husband for 7 years, then served for 84 more years as a widow. The reasoning is that a total age of 84 would not have been so remarkable. Anna carried the title of “prophetess.” She was known and respected as a woman to whom and through whom God spoke. Luke further bolstered Anna’s credibility by including the name of her father and tribe. Anna was at the Temple from morning to night—worshiping, fasting, and praying (v. 37). The word used here for “prayer” carries a sense of urgency and need. It seems that Anna continually begged God to fulfill the Messianic promises. And she lived expectantly, so when she saw Simeon take this baby in his arms, she hurried to his side and immediately recognized the Child as the Promised One. Then, she spread the good news among the other like-minded residents of the region. >> Do you sometimes wonder if your age (or another characteristic) might eliminate you from being used by God? You think, “Surely God can’t use someone like me!” Nothing could be further from the truth! Anna’s story shows that God wants to work in and through each of us.
No first-time parent, no matter how many books they’ve read, will feel fully prepared for all the changes a baby will bring. Many say the trip home from the hospital is marked by nervousness. How will we care for this precious new life? We don’t know what training Mary was given on how to care for a newborn. Perhaps she and Elizabeth covered this subject during their three-months visit. However, Elizabeth was a first-time mother as well, so her experience would have been limited. We also don’t know what Mary was feeling as she made the trip to Bethlehem so late in her pregnancy. She probably wasn’t required to accompany Joseph. But commentators believe she traveled with him because they didn’t want to be apart when Jesus was born. Luke’s account of the birth is sparse, so we assume it occurred without incident (vv. 6, 7), although the lack of a proper accommodation would certainly have been shocking. Mary wrapped the babe tightly in cloth, a normal procedure for newborns and then placed Him in a manger—the opposite of normal! Shepherds, not family and friends, were the first to visit the baby (v. 16). And, consistent with her character, Mary treasured these things in her heart. As was the custom, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the Temple for His circumcision, Mary’s purification, and the presentation of the firstborn (vv. 22, 23). Simeon eagerly met them there and prophesied over the baby, not only about Israel’s response but also about Mary’s personal pain. “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel...And a sword will pierce your own soul too” (vv. 34, 35). Mary’s challenges would not end at her Son’s birth. >> Nothing could have fully prepared Mary and Joseph for their role as Jesus’ parents. Yet God led them each step of the way. What challenges are you facing today? God was with Mary; in the same way, He will be with you.
Our son’s adoption process involved a three-year trek through the foster care system. Our daughter’s journey included a six-year wait on the China Center for Adoption Affairs. But, in God’s providence, both adoptions were finalized the exact same day. Daryl was three years old, and Amelia just seven months when they became Worralls. A few months later, we stood before our church community to dedicate our children to the Lord. As bumpy as my own road to motherhood seemed, Elizabeth’s was even more arduous. Her relatives and neighbors knew of her pain and patience. So, when she finally gave birth to a son, they shared in her joy. The community gathered eight days later to witness the circumcision of this miracle child. According to custom, the baby would be named at the ceremony. Those leading the service believed he would be called Zechariah and were acting on this assumption when Elizabeth interrupted. “No! He is to be called John” (v. 60). The awkward moment was made worse when the people questioned her judgment. But she held firm. Zechariah had somehow shared with her the angel’s instructions, and she was determined to obey. The crowd, however, was not convinced. They turned to Zechariah, still mute, and asked for verification. He wrote on a tablet: “His name is John” (v. 63). Their astonishment doubled when Zechariah instantaneously regained his speech. This little family suddenly had the attention of everyone who wondered, “What then is this child going to be?” (v. 66). Clearly God was with this family. John’s childhood is summarized in verse 80, which attests to his growing strength of spirit. But we know that his faithful mother and father prepared him well for the call God had placed on his life. >> Raising children in today’s world can seem like a daunting task. If you are a parent, how are you preparing your children to live out God’s call? If not, how can you support parents you know in this important work?
When I graduated from college, I moved to the Chicago area to begin my grown-up life. Alone in a new city, I looked for a church community that I could call “home.” I craved the guidance of older women and eventually connected with a few who nurtured my faith with their presence and prayers. I was welcomed into their homes, attended Bible studies they taught, and served in ministries which they led. They listened to my dreams and fears. They encouraged my gifts and persistently pointed me to God’s truth. We see a similar longing in Mary, who—on the angel’s direction— made the arduous trip to see her older relative, Elizabeth. We see that Elizabeth was sensitive to the Spirit’s guidance. Immediately sensing Mary’s condition, she stepped willingly into the role of mentor. She affirmed Mary’s faith and confirmed her calling, so much so that Mary was able to articulate her own song of praise. In the beautiful prayer or song, titled the Magnificat, we see the depth of Mary’s understanding of who God is and what He had already done. She gave Him glory for His holiness and His might. She acknowledged His mercy, sovereignty, and provision “to Abraham and his descendants forever” (v. 55). Elizabeth provided a safe place for her to continue to process her next steps, built on this firm foundation. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three more months, until the time of John’s birth. Can you imagine the conversations they must have had? Their heads bowed together in times of prayer, they exchanged words of encouragement and proclamations of praise. >> Have you experienced the faith- building care of a mentor? Do you long for that right now? If you are a young believer, consider making this request of a mature believer in your church. If you have followed Jesus for many years, ask Him if you might take on this role with a younger believer. Can you offer encouragement and wisdom to someone who needs support?
Has God ever called you to do something for which you felt utterly unprepared? That is what happened to Mary when she was visited by the angel Gabriel. Mary was young, and Nazareth was an obscure village (population 400). Her knowledge of life beyond her town was limited, yet she had developed a noble character and a remarkable faith. Luke introduced her, saying only “a virgin pledged to be married” (v. 27). Later, he repeated the fact of her virginity and added her name, Mary (“excellence”). Luke’s word for “virgin” is unmistakable in its importance. Mary had never had sexual relations with a man, though she was betrothed to Joseph, descendant of David. The significant subtext was that the birth announced by Gabriel could only be orchestrated by God. Mary was alone when Gabriel greeted her, saying literally, “Grace to you, graced one.” Then he assured her of the Lord’s presence with her personally. Mary initially felt confused (“greatly troubled”) by this greeting, but she mulled over the words, trying to understand (v. 29). Gabriel explained that she had “found favor with God” (v. 30), and He will use her in an unprecedented way—to carry and raise the Son of God and eternal King of kings. Mary missed some of the significance of this pronouncement since she focused on the process. “How will this be,” she asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” (v. 34). Gabriel answered with a shocking- ly simple explanation of Holy Spirit conception and a concrete confirmation of another baby, this one born into barrenness. “No word from God will ever fail” (v. 37). The encounter ended with Mary’s humble vow of obedience. We don’t know everything she felt. But before the angel left, she declared, “May your word to me be fulfilled” (v. 38). >> God still uses the humble and seemingly unremarkable to do His work. Perhaps He is asking something of you today? Ask God for the wisdom and courage to obey.
Elizabeth. Mary. The Samaritan Woman. Lydia. Martha. Priscilla. Each of these women encountered Jesus in a personal way. This month, we will look at women of the New Testament, walking with them as they come face to face with Jesus. Their stories will encourage all of us, both men and women, to follow expectantly after Jesus. Today, we begin in Luke chapter 1. Elizabeth’s name means “God is my oath.” We learn that Elizabeth was of the priestly line of Aaron just like her husband Zechariah, and she was old. Being both old and barren was a personal tragedy and a public “disgrace” (v. 25). Despite her pain and humiliation, Elizabeth and Zechariah were “blameless” according to all the commandments of the Lord (v. 6). She did not allow her barrenness to foster bitterness. Instead, she continued to serve, to obey, and to pray (v. 13). God answered their prayers beyond what they could have anticipated. They simply longed for a child. But the angel Gabriel brought good news of a son who would bring both personal joy and corporate redemption. This child, an unexpected gift in their later years, would lead many to the Lord. When Zechariah questioned the angel’s message, he was struck mute. Can you imagine his attempt to tell Elizabeth what had happened when he went back home (v. 23)? What a remarkable game of charades that must have been! Elizabeth stayed secluded for five months. Perhaps she feared a miscarriage and wanted to protect her health. Perhaps she wanted to savor the experience in solitude. Or she was concerned about the community’s confusion and questioning. No matter the reason, her heart was full of gratitude. >> Where are you in following Jesus? Whether you are just beginning your journey or are advanced in years, like Elizabeth and Zechariah, we hope this story will encourage you. Ask the Lord to soften your heart like Elizabeth’s to obedience and humble gratitude.
Early in the novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, Jane is sent to Lowood School, a charitable institution that educated orphans and poor girls. A victim of various injustices, she arrives angry and wanting revenge. At the school, however, she makes friends with a girl named Helen Burns. From Helen, she learns about perseverance, kindness, and forgiveness. She resolves to imitate her friend instead of nursing her grudges. Imitating good is a biblical principle for Christian behavior. While Gaius would have been a good example to follow (3 John 1), Diotrephes was clearly not (vv. 9–10). John describes him as a person who “loves to be first” (v. 9). He didn’t have a servant attitude but a prideful one. He didn’t practice the hospitality or missionary support described yesterday, but went so far as to forbid it and to excommunicate those who disobeyed him. He’d ignored a letter from John and was spreading “malicious nonsense” about him (v. 10). In modern terms, he was a “control freak”—a self-centered leader trying to build up power and position rather than working for the sake of the gospel. John would deal with him when he came in person. We should imitate good examples, like Demetrius, who may have been the bearer of this letter (v. 12). He’d proved by his actions that he was an authentic believer and was affirmed by the testimony of others. “Anyone who does what is good is from God.” Goodness comes from God; evil comes from godlessness. Trees are known by their fruit. John broke off here, promising to say more when he visited the church (vv. 13–14). He longed to be with these friends in person. >> There are many leaders who fight for our attention, but we need to be careful who we follow. While Christ is always our perfect standard (1 John 2:6), we can also imitate those who imitate Christ (1 Cor. 4:16–17; 1 Thess.1:6; Heb. 13:7).
What brings you joy? I find great pleasure in listening to live music. Last summer, my wife and I attended a concert by the Emerson String Quartet. They played pieces by Barber, Brahms, and Schubert with precision and passion. My wife and I drank it in with great joy. What brings a person joy reveals something about them. For the apostle John, his joy was hearing that “my children are walking in the truth” (v. 4). In this third epistle (the shortest book in the New Testament!) John refers to himself simply as “the elder” (v. 1). “Gaius” appears to have been a specific person, probably a pastor or other church leader. As in 2 John, he loved him “in the truth” by which they both lived. John’s greeting showed concern for both physical and spiritual health (v. 2). Most of all, he rejoiced to hear that Gaius was “walking in the truth,” meaning that he was living, growing, and ministering in faithful love and obedience (vv. 3–4; see 2 John 4). By referring to Gaius as one of “my children,” John might be indicating that he’d been the one to originally lead Gaius to Christ. The apostle commended Gaius and his congregation for showing hospitality to traveling teachers and missionaries (vv. 5–8). (This was exactly the kind of hospitality he commanded not to be shown to false teachers in 2 John.) Hospitality played a key role in the growth of the early church and can be compared to the way we support missionaries today. John praised it as a practical example of faithfulness (v. 5), love (v. 6), honoring God (v. 6), and working together for the truth (v. 8). For their part, the itinerant teachers and missionaries were motivated by the gospel, God’s glory, and the name of Christ (v. 7). << Does your church support missionaries? Our prayers and gifts are an important part of taking the gospel to every person. Today, pray for a missionary you know!
The apostle John lived his later years in the city of Ephesus, in modern-day Turkey. If you visit, you’ll find a church built on the place tradition identifies as his burial site. Named St. John’s Basilica, it was constructed in the fifth century A.D. by Emperor Justinian. John’s high concern was that the church of his day would identify and resist false teaching. As he mentioned in his first letter, false teachers were denying that Jesus Christ had come in the flesh (v. 7). Gnostics saw physical matter as evil and denied that the Incarnation could have happened (see February 16). John calls them “deceivers” and “antichrists.” To follow these teachers would be to “lose what we have worked for” (v. 8)—not a reference to salvation but to the advance of the gospel and the earning of spiritual rewards. To follow them would be to “run ahead” and not continue in Christ’s teaching (v. 9). To Americans, running ahead might sound like a good thing, but to John it meant that the Gnostics thought they knew better than regular Christians. Following them would mean leaving the path of truth and righteousness. John warned his readers not to welcome false teachers into their churches (v. 10). Hospitality— supporting itinerant teachers with food and shelter—enabled their teaching and appeared to be an endorsement of its content. Even though the believers had kind intentions, welcoming deceptive teachers would be to share in their wickedness (v. 11). The “benefit of the doubt” was not to be given in this case. Church leaders have a responsibility to stand firm in the truth of the gospel and to protect their congregations. John closed by promising to say more when he visited in person and sent greetings from a sister church (vv. 12–13). >> John’s warning is an important reminder for us today. We live in a time when social media circulates many ideas and promotes many false teachers. We need to check everything we read and hear against the truth of God’s Word.
In the summer of 2022, the U.S. Postal Service’s longest-tenured letter carrier, Johnnie Bell, celebrated 70 years of sorting and delivering mail in Oklahoma City. When he started, the pay was only $1.81 per hour. “Thanks so much for this recognition,” he said humbly. “This is just something I do because I enjoy doing it.” We don’t know who delivered the letter of 2 John, but a letter from the revered apostle surely brought joy to the churches in western Asia. The “elder” in verse 1 is of course John himself. The “lady” seems to be a person who was well-known in the church and might have been a house-church host or leader. Some scholars, though, identify “lady” as a metaphor for a particular church congregation. In either case, John loves her “in the truth,” that is, because God’s truth lives in both of them and will do so forever (v. 2). His greeting links truth and love to God’s grace, mercy, and peace (v. 3). John felt joy to write to believers who walked in truth and obedience to God’s commands (v. 4). “Some” meant not everyone, but he still rejoiced. “Children” meant fellow members of God’s family, perhaps specifically believers who had become followers of Christ through his ministry. The main topic of John’s second letter echoes the first: “Love one another” (v. 5). This type of love is not merely a feeling or emotion but means to follow in the humility and servitude shown by Jesus. The church had been following this command ever since it was founded by Christ (John 13:34–35). John defined love as walking in obedience, and obedience as walking in love (v. 6; see February 20). You cannot separate one from the other. >> How do you show love to others? In The 5 Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman identified the different ways we tend to show and receive love. Find out your love language today at 5lovelanguages.com.
What do I want my last words to be? I’m not morbid, but I’ve pondered this topic. I’d like to say something profound that would be quoted for generations. Or maybe I’d quote a favorite verse of Scripture. But what if I don’t have time to choose? Unfortunately, my last words might very well turn out to be a “Dad joke”! Especially compared to Paul’s letters, the last words of 1 John may seem abrupt: “Dear children, keep yourselves from idols” (v. 21). Period. Stop. End of letter. What is an “idol”? It’s anything in which we seek satisfaction apart from God (see February 8). It’s anything that rules or takes top priority in our lives, including finances, career, convenience, or power. An idol can also be anything that corrupts the biblical gospel, such as the “prosperity gospel” or “Christian nationalism.” It’s anything that’s contrary to Scripture, such as the Gnosticism of John’s day. Some idols can even be good things that we mistakenly elevate to the status of the best thing. For instance, we can turn our children into idols. We can turn ourselves into idols, putting ourselves on the throne of our lives. Idols stand opposed to the true God (v. 20). Idolatry contradicts what God created us for and what He saved us for. It stands in the way of a close relationship with Him. Verse 21 is a very appropriate last word for an epistle focused on assurance of salvation and the outworking of God’s saving love in our lives. Instead of idolatry, we’re to worship God alone, in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. To “keep yourselves from idols” means, then, in the words of another translation: “Keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts” (NLT). >> At first glance, we may think we don’t worship any idols. But do we? What might those watching our life see at its center? Is it clearly Christ? Or something else? Ask the Spirit for an honest assessment.
“We approach God imperfectly,” admitted Gretchen Ronnevik in Ragged: Spiritual Disciplines for the Spiritually Exhausted. “We approach him as sinners wearing the covering of Christ. There cannot be any pretense about it. Pretense is in opposition to intimacy. We are who we are, and God is who he is. Don’t flower it up or try to be impressive.” This is one reason we can and should pray for sinning brothers and sisters in Christ (vv. 16–17). We know where they’re coming from because we’ve probably been there. Our prayer is, of course, that they will confess, repent, and be forgiven (1 John 1:9). But what is the “sin that leads to death” for which no forgiveness is possible? Within the context of 1 John and the New Testament as a whole, this sin is unbelief in Christ, also called blaspheming the Holy Spirit (Matt. 12:31–32). The Spirit, after all, testifies to Christ’s redemption (see Feb. 21). To reject Christ and to reject the Spirit’s witness to redemption are practically the same thing. To call God a liar in this way is blasphemy. We can pray for our sinning brothers and sisters in Christ with confidence, because genuine believers don’t and can’t continue sinning (vv. 18–19). If they’re truly members of God’s family, they will return to Him. The new spiritual life inside them cannot be extinguished. Christ Himself “keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.” Even though Satan has dominion over the world, he has no power over the kingdom of light. True believers “know him who is true,” the Father (v. 20). This knowledge and relationship cannot be lost, for it was given to us by the Son Himself. We are “in” both of them, for both are God. >> Spend some time today praying for any brothers and sisters in Christ you know who have sinned or who are living a sinful lifestyle. We can pray with confidence, knowing that repentance is God’s will.
Prayers to an idol were often an exercise in fear and bargaining. How could they convince the “god” to do what they want? Maybe if they promised more sacrifices, or gave a costly gift, they would get their wish. The “god” wouldn’t deliver the goods unless he got something out of the deal. When believers approach God’s throne of grace, by contrast, it’s nothing like that. We can come to our Father with confident, faith-filled prayers, knowing that He loves us and will say “yes” to any prayer asked “according to his will” (vv. 14–15; see Phil. 4:6–7). Our status with Him is not in doubt. We’re members of His family, as our own love and obedience show, and as the Holy Spirit testifies. The principle at work here is that we have a loving Father who enjoys giving good gifts to those who ask (Matt. 7:7–11). The phrase “according to his will” indicates that we need to align our wills with God’s. This is likely one of the main purposes of prayer! John recorded similar statements of Christ in his Gospel, such as: “Whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you” (John 15:16). “In my name” is functionally equivalent to “according to his will.” When God says “no” to a prayer, we can understand it was not in line with His will. Verse 13 is often identified as the main purpose statement of this letter—”so that you may know that you have eternal life.” Knowledge of eternal life, or assurance of salvation, is a recurring theme in 1 John. The phrase “this is how we know” occurs eight times, and forms of the verb “know” occur 42 times! >> Are we praying for the right things? How much time do we spend praying for temporal versus eternal matters? God cares about every detail of our lives, but no doubt, He doesn’t want to hear prayers only about the details.
In a court case, both sides may call on expert witnesses to explain a complex situation. If the witnesses disagree, the lawyers focus on their credibility. Who has more relevant experience? Who demonstrates the most valid understanding? In other words, who is more trustworthy? John wrote in today’s passage that three witnesses testify that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world (vv. 7–8). The first is the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Godhead. The Spirit is at work both within us and out in the world. He testifies to the fact that Jesus came by the water and the blood (v. 6). The verb “testify” means that He calls all to affirm the truth in a spirit of praise and worship. Human testimony, such as that of John and the other apostles, has value but God’s own testimony is more valuable, reliable, and certain (v. 9). The second witness is the water of baptism. When Jesus was baptized, the entire Trinity was present. The Father spoke His approval from heaven, and the Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove (John 1:32–34). The third witness is the blood of Christ, which enables spiritual rebirth. His public ministry began at His baptism and ended with His death on the Cross. Believers accept these three witnesses or testimonies (v. 10). Our faith is not subjective or based on mere feelings. It is reasonable, based on actual events in history. In fact, not to believe the evidence is to call God a liar. God has given us salvation through His Son (vv. 11–12). To believe this truth is to accept His gift of eternal life. Not to believe is to opt for death. Every person must choose! >> If you have never accepted salvation by faith in Christ, there’s no reason to delay! Go to moodybible. org/knowing-christ to learn more. If you’re already a believer, give thanks today for this “indescribable gift” (2 Cor. 9:14–15).
There have been many songs, in the church and in popular music, written about love. In fact, if you search “love” on the Hymnary.org website you’ll find 59,040 hymn texts. The same cannot be said about “obedience.” That search turns up only 1,342 results. Apparently, we like to sing about one much more than the other! Yet from the apostle John’s perspective, love and obedience are matching bookends. He uses family relationships to demonstrate why they connect. Because of our salvation through Christ, we’re God’s children. As children, we owe love and obedience to God, including the Father and the Son. We also owe love to one another, as members of the same family. Human families may be marred by sin, but God’s family is transformed to be like Christ. As John explained, to trust in Christ for salvation is to be born of God (v. 1). No special knowledge is needed. To be born of God is to love God. Even further, to love God is to love His other children. Love and obedience are in fact how we can be certain that we are born again and members of God’s family (v. 2). Love and obedience are so inseparable that we can almost regard them as the same thing (v. 3). Obedience to God’s commands is not burdensome. Why not? Because “everyone born of God overcomes the world” (v. 4). How? By trusting in the One who has already overcome the world (v. 5; 1 John 4:4). The victory, then, comes not by any merit of ours but through faith. As Jesus said, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28–30). Spiritually, obedience is true freedom, not in the American cultural sense of doing whatever we want, but in the biblical sense of freedom from sin (John 8:34–36). >> Tell someone today one thing you’ve been learning from this study of John’s letters. Even better, invite them to join our Bible study and request Today in the Word for themselves!
Do you remember your first crush? Maybe even when you were in grade school? Sometimes children will send notes trying to figure out how the object of their crush feels about them. “Do you like me?” they’ll ask. Before they declare their “love” they want to be sure it will be returned. John tells us that God loved us first, not the other way around. Today’s reading is the end of a “thought unit” in the epistle and presents three summary truths. First, “We love because he first loved us” (v. 19). We were spiritually dead in our sins, unable to help ourselves in any way. God took the initiative for our salvation. The only reason we can love God and one another is that God loved us first. The implication, then, is that we should love as He loves—not because people earn it or deserve it, but sacrificially and unconditionally. This love is motivated and empowered by God’s love! The second truth in this passage is that we cannot claim to love God and hate our brothers and sisters in Christ (v. 20). Anyone who does so is a “liar” and a hypocrite. Their words and actions don’t match up. Logically, if they don’t love the people they can see, how can they love God whom they cannot see? If we truly love God, we will love others in God’s family. The third and final summary truth expressed here flows from the second: We must love our brothers and sisters in Christ (v. 21). God commands it. The vertical (directed toward God) and horizontal (directed toward people) dimensions of love cannot be separated. They must be lived out together. God’s love to us should overflow to others (1 Thess. 3:12). >> Do the people in your life know that you love them? Consider taking time today to write a note expressing your love and care for a person in your life. Doing so on an ordinary day will make it extra special.
“Love divine, all loves excelling,” begins a classic hymn by Charles Wesley. “Joy of heaven to earth come down, fix in us thy humble dwelling, all thy faithful mercies crown. Jesus, thou art all compassion, pure, unbounded love thou art; visit us with thy salvation, enter every trembling heart.” God’s love at work within us is one of the key themes of 1 John. Forms of the word “love” appear 43 times in this epistle! John circles back to this theme again and again. You might feel a bit of déjà vu in today’s reading, which begins “This is how we know” (v. 13). What does John want us to know? That we’re truly saved. How do we know? By the Holy Spirit. Again, we are told about the assurance of salvation and the work of the Spirit. So, we know where this is going: As children of God, we can testify to God’s love in sending His Son to be our Savior (v. 14). We who believe and receive the gospel are born again into God’s family (v. 15). God gives us spiritual life, demonstrated to be real by our love and obedience. “So we know and rely on the love God has for us” (v. 16). “God is love” is the point at which orthodoxy (truthful beliefs) and orthopraxy (righteous actions) reveal how interwoven and inseparable they are. God, love, life, knowledge, truth, salvation, righteousness, obedience—when we walk in the light, these are all together where and how and why we walk. As we love like God and imitate Jesus, our love is “made complete” or becomes fully fruitful (v. 17). On the day of judgment, we’ll therefore feel no fear or anxiety but rather joy and peace in God’s presence (v. 18). >> If you wish, sing or listen to the hymn we mentioned in the beginning of this devotional. Or find another song or chorus about God’s love and loving one another. Make walking in the light of God’s love your theme for today.
On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of All Saints Church in Wittenberg, Germany, launching the Reformation. Five centuries later, many German Christians have been inspired by his teachings to offer safe haven to refugees. Because they have been so loved by God, they want to love others in need. After all, Luther himself was a refugee, fleeing for his life from Catholic authorities. This is one practical example of how we can put God’s love into action. John tells us that love and obedience are characteristics of God’s family (vv. 7–8). Love comes from God, and God’s children do God-things. We can only do God-things because we’ve been born of God and know God. That’s the cause—love is the result. Those who don’t love don’t know God, because “God is love.” It doesn’t get simpler than that. How do we know God is love? Because He sent His Son for our redemption, to be the “atoning sacrifice for our sins” (vv. 9–10; John 3:16). We owed a penalty of death, but now we “live through him.” Human love pales by comparison. God’s love is not an abstract quality or virtue. He is love. “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (v. 11). God loved us when we were powerless to help ourselves, when we were still His enemies (Rom. 5:6–8). When we love one another, we make the invisible God visible to the world, that is, we call the world’s attention to His glory and the gospel of Jesus Christ (v. 12; see also John 1:18). His love is “made complete in us,” expressed in our love for one another. >> How will you put God’s love in action today? Perhaps you could join in a ministry to refugees, prison inmates, or another group. Ask God to show you a new way you can extend His love to others.
Good news: About three-quarters of all Americans believe Jesus was a real person, born in Bethlehem. These people will even say He’s the Son of God. Less than half, however, according to a recent study by LifeWay Research, think Jesus existed prior to the Incarnation. They don’t view Him as coeternal with the Father. That’s a problem because most Americans see Jesus as only human and not divine. This false belief must be rejected. Here John urges believers to exercise spiritual critical thinking skills and “test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (v. 1). False teachers and “antichrists” existed in John’s time and still exist in our world today (1 John 2:18). In John’s day, Gnostics were teaching that Christ did not come in the flesh (vv. 2–3). Those who believed in a real Incarnation were from God, while those who did not were not. While it’s important for us to discern false teaching, we can rest assured that God is “greater” and has already won the victory over it (vv. 4–5). Many teachings may be popular with the world, but they are not from God. Again, John contrasts the two kingdoms: One is marked by light, truth, life, and salvation. While the other is darkness, lies, death, and condemnation. Being sure of our identity in Christ (assurance of salvation) and discerning true versus false teaching are two sides of the same coin. The Holy Spirit inside us testifies to the truth that we are God’s children. The same Spirit helps us determine what beliefs and teachings are biblically true or untrue. When we listen to Him, individually and as a church, we stay on the right path (v. 6). >> Be on your guard. Don’t be deceived. There are many false teachers today (2 Tim. 4:2–4). These influential men and women command large audiences and sell many books. Just because it is popular doesn’t mean it is biblically sound.
Children who grow up in Christian homes sometimes pray the “sinner’s prayer” more than once “just to be sure.” That is, they respond to invitations to accept Christ into their heart multiple times because they are not sure if the previous times were “enough.” The apostle John, however, wanted the recipients of his letter to “set [their]hearts at rest” to know for sure that they were saved (v. 19). He didn’t want the enemy to use anxiety about their salvation as a weapon against them. Ultimately, a believer’s assurance of salvation is a knowledge that is secure within God’s knowledge (vv. 20–21). Even though our own hearts might condemn us or make us question its reality, we can rest on the fact that “God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.” God’s knowledge (unlike our own) is complete and entirely true. If He knows we’re part of His family, the matter is settled, case closed. From our perspective, our knowledge can be confirmed as we obey (v. 22; see also vv. 9–10). If we were not saved, we’d still be dead in our sins and unable to behave righteously or please God. The fact that we can love and obey shows His new life at work within us (v. 23). Furthermore, He answers our prayers, which means they align with His will, which would be impossible if we were not “in Christ.” We have assurance of salvation from the Holy Spirit (v. 24). This puts our hearts at rest in His presence, without fear or worry. As Paul put it: “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children” (Rom. 8:16). When Jesus promised His disciples the Holy Spirit, He intended for this to be an important part of the Spirit’s ministry to the church. >> Today, read John 14:15–31 which gives John’s account of Jesus’s promise of the Holy Spirit. Compare that passage to today’s reading. What themes do they have in common?
Christ “astounds and sustains us with his endless kindness,” wrote Dane Ortlund in Gentle and Lowly. “Only as we walk ever deeper into this tender kindness can we live the Christian life as the New Testament calls us to. Only as we drink down the kindness of the heart of Christ will we leave in our wake, everywhere we go, the aroma of heaven.” Jesus not only gives us a loving example to follow but the strength to do so. While Cain acted in hatred and selfishness (see yesterday’s reading), Jesus acted in love and complete selflessness. John shows that Jesus is more than an example of kindness. He is the very definition of love (v. 16). We most clearly see His love in that He “laid down his life for us.” What Jesus did is the opposite of Cain’s murder in every way: Christ’s action gave life, not took it. He sacrificed His own life, not ended another’s. Jealousy and hatred were entirely absent from His thoughts, words, and actions. We should do the same, taking up our cross daily in Christ’s spirit of sacrificial love (Luke 9:23–24). What does this mean in everyday life? It might mean, for example, giving material possessions or our time to brothers and sisters in need (v. 17; James 2:14–17). Not to share is selfish; the love of God is not present. Christian love is not merely a feeling. If words (including social media posts!) are not accompanied with actions, love is not love but rather empty hypocrisy (v. 18). We’re not to love only those who are similar to us or agree with us. We’re to love all our brothers and sisters in Christ. How? In Christ. He is our standard, our model, and our source of strength. >> On this Valentine’s Day, we invite you to feel absolutely secure in “the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38–39). Nothing in all of creation, natural or supernatural, can separate you from His love!
In this age when instant connection is at our fingertips, loneliness has become an epidemic. About half of all Americans are lonely, according to a recent survey. Forty-seven percent of respondents reported feeling lonely or left out. Thirteen percent said they didn’t have even one person who knew them well. As followers of Christ, we’re well-positioned to reach out to people with His love. This doesn’t mean we’ll never feel lonely. We still, after all, live in a fallen world. But as part of the family of God, the church, we belong to a community that should be characterized by God’s love for Him and for one another (v. 11). John has taught us that love and obedience are evidence of spiritual rebirth: “We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other” (v. 14). Not loving is evidence that a person is not actually a child of God. Cain, for example, murdered his own brother. Jealous of Abel’s accepted sacrifice, he ignored God’s warning and acted based on hatred, thus demonstrating that he “belonged to the evil one” (v. 12; Gen. 4:1–16). Just as Cain hated Abel, the world hates Christians (v. 13). Persecution is to be expected. The surprise is when someone claiming to be a brother or sister in Christ does not display love to others in God’s family. This shows that this person is not really a child of God, and even more, that they’re a “murderer” like Cain (v. 15). God’s eternal life does not reside in such a person. Love for our fellow believers is a Christian necessity. This doesn’t mean we hate unbelievers; after all, Christ commanded us to love our enemies (Matt. 5:43–48). But our love for our brothers and sisters should be a special priority and focus. >> Today, why not pray to make a new friend? Someone at your workplace, in your neighborhood or even in your church might be looking for one. You could be the answer to their prayer.
How can you tell if someone is a Christian? John gives a simple answer: “the one who does what is right is righteous, just as he [Christ] is righteous” (v. 7). We shouldn’t listen to anyone who tells us differently, such as the Gnostic teachers in John’s day, for if we do, they’ll lead us astray (v. 7; 1 John 2:26). Recognizing the difference isn’t rocket science, that is, it’s quite clear who belongs to Christ and who belongs to the devil (vv. 7–8). Followers of Christ walk in the light. They generally obey God’s commands, do what is right, and love one another. Unbelievers, by contrast, walk in darkness. They generally disobey the gospel, do what is evil, and fail to love others. They neither believe correctly about Christ, nor do they act correctly. Genuine believers in Jesus won’t continue to sin as a way of life (vv. 9–10). In fact, they can’t continue. Why not? Because they are not the same person. They’ve been reborn. They’re new creations (2 Cor. 5:17). In verse 9, “God’s seed” is a metaphor for salvation. Just as a man’s “seed” enters a woman and creates a new life, “God’s seed” enters our hearts by faith. The result is spiritual rebirth (John 3:3–7). And while the start of a new human life might miscarry, the start of a new spiritual life never fails. Regeneration cannot be reversed. Just as fallen human nature inevitably produces sin, so also does our redeemed nature inevitably produce righteousness. This is how we know that we’re children of God. “Only God sees the heart,” we sometimes say. Yes, but John taught that we can discern people’s spiritual conditions, including our own, from words and actions. A tree is known by its fruit. >> We’re not perfect yet, so regular confession of sin is an important spiritual discipline. But let us also rejoice that God’s love is transforming us into the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29)!
As a parent of four, I can safely say that I have no idea what my children will be when they grow up. No one knows! Not the parents, not the grandparents, and certainly not the children. What about children of God? John wrote, “What we will be has not yet been made known” (v. 2). The only One who knows our future is God, and He has revealed just enough to excite and encourage us! Having urged his readers to take confidence in their assurance of salvation in chapter 2, John now continued in chapter 3 to explore what it means to be children of God. The transition in today’s reading, appropriately, is an exclamation of praise: “See what great love the Father has lavished on us!” (v. 1). As God’s children, we’re destined to become like His Son, Jesus Christ (v. 2). The goal of following and imitating Jesus is not just a dream but a certainty. The world doesn’t understand the journey we’re on, and even we ourselves don’t know exactly how things will turn out. Yet, in another sense, we do know: “We shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” John was probably thinking here of the time he saw Christ’s glory revealed on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–9). In response to this truth, we’re to purify ourselves, meaning we’re to live a life of obedience and love (vv. 3–6). “No one who lives in him keeps on sinning” habitually, though we know we will sin and need forgiveness on occasion. This dimension of salvation is called sanctification—the process of making us like Christ. We should therefore treat sin and holiness seriously, but not anxiously. Our perseverance is guaranteed by our new life in Christ! >> Consider the difference between worldly hope and heavenly hope. The first amounts to wishful thinking. The second, though, is marked by certainty. Our future is secure in God’s hands.
“Anointing” in ancient Near Eastern culture was the act of putting oil or perfume on someone, usually on their head. This indicated a special choosing or commissioning, as when Samuel anointed David to be the next king of Israel (1 Sam. 16:1–13). Anointing someone with oil could also signify high respect or honor, as when Mary anointed Jesus before His crucifixion (John 12:1–8). So, what did John mean in today’s reading by the phrase “the anointing you received” (vv. 26–27)? This anointing is a picture of salvation. God chose us, gave us new life, and is transforming us into the image of His Son! Because of this anointing, the believers at that time could resist the “antichrists” and Gnostic teachers trying to lead them astray. This anointing is God’s choice, not ours. But remaining or abiding in Him is our choice (vv. 24–25). These choices are not equal. Our choice is made in response to His and could only be made because of His. Because of this anointing, we bear a responsibility to obey His commands, an effort that is guaranteed to succeed because of His help (2 Cor. 1:21–22). To stay faithful to the truth of the gospel is to abide with God and to walk in the light. Because of this—and despite what the Gnostic teachers were saying—we can stand “confident and unashamed” before God when Christ returns (vv. 28–29). In front of the divine judgment seat, we have nothing to fear but can look forward to this day with assurance of our salvation. Having been made righteous, following Him who is perfectly righteous, and doing what is right is incontrovertible evidence that we have been truly “born of him.” This confidence is not in ourselves, then, but in God. His anointing cannot fail! >> The apostle also wrote about abiding in Christ in John 15:1–17. Why not set aside some time soon to study this important passage as well?
You may have heard of the Antichrist, a specific end-times figure mentioned in the Bible (see Dan. 9, 2 Thess. 2:1–12, Revelation 13). But John said there will be “many antichrists” (v. 18). What did he mean? An “antichrist” is any person who denies Christ and tries to deceive others with lies about Him (vv. 22–23). Such an individual follows in the footsteps of Satan, whose native language is lies (John 8:44). Here, John is pointing to those who were denying the Incarnation, the doctrine that Christ came in the flesh (2 John 7). This heresy was called “Gnosticism”, the belief that physical matter is corrupt or evil, while the spiritual is good or pure. A Gnostic believes that Christ, who is completely good and pure, could not have a real physical body. This is in contradiction to what the Bible teaches. God created the physical world, declared it good, and plans to redeem it (Rom. 8:19–22). Jesus existed in the flesh. And, both Jesus and we will have glorified bodies for all eternity. The Gnostic teachers had at first appeared to be genuine Christians, but by denying orthodoxy and leaving the church they’d proved otherwise (v. 19). The recipients of John’s letter didn’t need to worry. He was confident they knew the truth and would not fall away. True believers have an “anointing from the Holy One,” are eternally chosen by God, and safe in His hands (vv. 20–21; Eph. 1:11–12). But this passage serves as an important warning to us today. We need to be on guard against false teachers. We’re living in the "last hour” (v. 18) or the “last days” (2 Peter 3:3), the time between the first and second comings of Christ. >> What false teachings have you seen creep into our world and even our churches today? If we are indeed in the “last days”, how does that change the way we live? What will you do differently today?
Lust is an intense desire or craving, not only for sex but for anything: money, power, even food. In 1 John 2:16, we are warned about the “lust of the flesh” and “lust of the eyes.” What exactly does that mean? One commentator says the word “lust” implies that we are in hot pursuit of something. When we lust with our flesh or our eyes, we are seeking satisfaction in something apart from God. When we chase after ungodly things, we are not living in the light (v. 15). Temptations try to draw us off the path of righteousness. Where do they come from? We experience temptations from outside things and from inside ourselves, the remains of our sinful nature. “Lust of the flesh” includes sins such as sexual lust and greed. “Lust of the eyes” refers to our worldliness. We chase after temporary things like material possessions, beauty, and social status. Covetousness is when we want more of what others have. “Pride of life” is our natural, unredeemed arrogance and self-sufficiency—we are tempted to believe, in contradiction to the book of Ecclesiastes, that we can find meaning and purpose “under the sun” and on our own. John’s list of three sources of temptation is not exhaustive, but it does cover a lot of ground. If we are more watchful and alert in these three areas, we will be better prepared to resist temptation. We need to be on our guard because we cannot love both God and the world (vv. 15–16; see also John 15:18–19; James 4:4). These two things are in complete opposition. Light and darkness do not overlap in the slightest. This world is temporary. It will pass away. But our obedience to the will of God will last forever (v. 17). The wiser investment is clear! >> Examine your own heart. Which kinds of temptation are you most vulnerable to? Do you have biblical strategies for resisting them? Consider memorizing today’s reading to help win the fight (Heb. 4:12).
When I write letters or emails, I try to put my main purpose near the beginning. “I’m writing to you about...” “I need to speak with you about...” The apostle John, however, scattered his purpose throughout his letters. It might seem a bit strange to us that today’s reading from chapter two is a series of purpose statements. Why is he stating his main point here? While yesterday’s reading in verses 9–11 was meant to be affirming, not scolding, the command to love and obey might still have felt overwhelming. Maybe that is why the apostle pauses to offer encouragement to his readers. In verses 12–13, John encourages believers in general, calling them “dear children” or “beloved” and reminding them of the joy of their salvation: “Your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.” This is the foundational reason we can walk in the light. He also encouraged “fathers,” or church leaders, “because you know him who is from the beginning,” Christ. To know Him is the key to everything else. Finally, he addressed “young men,” younger or less mature believers (both male and female). Though they’re just starting out on their spiritual journeys, they can be confident that they have “overcome the evil one.” Right from the start, we have victory in Christ. In the second round of purpose statements (v. 14), John follows the same order. All believers can take heart “because you know the Father.” Christ opened the door to this relationship. Church leaders can stand firm for the same reason. Both the Father and the Son are eternal. And younger believers can faithfully walk in the light because their strength comes from the Word of God living in them. God has provided all the power we need to love and obey! >> Whatever you’re feeling or experiencing today, you can take John’s encouragements to heart! You have a relationship with the eternal God, who has already granted you forgiveness and victory.
The Phos Hilaron is one of the oldest hymns we know. As lamps were lit at evening, the early Christians would sing: “O gracious light, pure brightness of the everliving Father in heaven, O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed! Now as we come to the setting of the sun, and our eyes behold the vesper light, we sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” John says that as believers, we need to walk in the light and not in the darkness. This is a helpful way to think about the two spiritual realms or kingdoms: Darkness is known for its lies, death, spiritual blindness, and evil, while light is marked by truth, life, spiritual vision, and righteousness. These distinctions will always be true! Truth is never accompanied by death but always by life. Lies are never accompanied by spiritual vision but always by spiritual blindness. Similarly, love and obedience always go together. The command to love is both old and new (vv. 7–8; John 13:34–35). How is it “old”? Not only did Jesus and the apostles teach love, but it was also the greatest commandment from the Old Testament. How is it “new”? Because perfect love is seen in Christ and, by extension, His church. Love is not an abstract quality but a Person. Because of Christ, “the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.” Exactly as Isaiah prophesied: “On those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned” (Isa. 9:2). When we love, we prove that we’re walking in the light (vv. 9–11). If we say we follow Christ, our actions must show love for our brothers and sisters in the faith. If we really are in the same family, we’ll act like it! >> Today’s illustration comes from Bryan Litfin’s Wisdom from the Ancients: 30 Forgotten Lessons from the Early Church. This book will help you learn more about church history and how it applies to our lives today.
How do you calculate the cost of something? I usually check the price, do some comparison shopping online, and try to figure out how long we’d have to save to afford it. More thoughtfully, the famous American philosopher Henry David Thoreau said: “I count the cost of a thing in terms of how much of life I have to give to obtain it.” Jesus taught that to be His disciple involved giving up everything (Luke 14:25–33). True discipleship holds nothing back. To love God is to keep His commands (v. 3; cf. John 14:23). One cannot exist without the other. John repeats this point from two different angles. First, if we claim to know God, but are habitually disobedient, our claim is false (v. 4). That person is a liar and walks in darkness. Second (by contrast), if a person is generally obedient, they do know God and have a close relationship with Him. Their love for God is “made complete” by their obedience, or in other words, obedience, walking in the light, is a result of God’s love at work within them (v. 5). As Jesus taught, a tree is known by its fruit (Matt. 7:17–20). This is how “we know we are in him,” that is, Christ, and have assurance of salvation: Love and obedience go hand in hand. At times, we can overcomplicate the Christian life. James got straight to the point: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22). John did the same here: “Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did” (v. 6). As followers of Christ, we are to imitate Him, the perfectly “Righteous One.” We ask ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” Then, we walk that way. >> Jesus said that if we love Him, we’ll do what He says. Are you following Jesus or headed in your own direction? Take time today to count both the cost and the rewards of walking in the light.
Imagine that you are given an accounting ledger with your name at the top. In the negative column is everything you owe God—your sins carry the penalty of death. You can never do enough good deeds to repay that debt. How can you balance your account? Then you hear about God’s offer of forgiveness. Jesus paid that penalty by dying in our place. When we put our faith in Him and accept God’s gift of eternal life, our debt is canceled! In today’s reading, John explains three identities of Christ that reveal how this can be true. First, Jesus is our “advocate with the Father” (v. 1). Like a lawyer in a courtroom, Jesus defends us. We are guilty of sin and deserve punishment, but Jesus took our condemnation on Himself. As a result, we are free, if we trust in His name for salvation. On this same basis, we can confess our sins and walk in the light. Second, Christ is “the Righteous One” (v. 1). He lived a perfect, sinless life—the only human ever to do so! He did not owe a death penalty but chose to die in our place. Third, He is “the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (v. 2; see also Rom. 3:25). Only someone who is perfect would be eligible to substitute for someone else. Only God could do that. So God the Father sent God the Son to open the way to eternal life (John 3:16). The Old Testament sacrificial system looked forward to what Christ would accomplish once for all (Heb. 9:12). In theology, we refer to this as “propitiation,” defined in one study Bible as “a sacrifice that bears God’s wrath and turns it to favor.” >> Have you received God’s gift of salvation in Christ? There is nothing you can do to cancel the debt of sin. But if you accept this gift, praise the Lord, your debt has been paid! Let today be the day that heaven rejoices in your spiritual rebirth (Luke 15:10).
We are all sinners. We all need forgiveness. “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean,” David prayed. “Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice” (Ps. 51:7–8). This psalm shows how God views sin, as well as the joy we experience at His forgiveness. When our sins are forgiven, we are relieved of their weight. “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Ps. 103:12). John teaches that, as believers, we walk in the light. But that doesn’t mean we’ll never sin. In fact, we definitely will sin (v. 8). Again, this fact is framed as a conditional for emphasis: “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves.” Yes, we’ve been saved from the power of sin, but no, we’re not perfect yet. What should we do when we sin? Confess and repent (v. 9). Those who walk in the light don’t simply admit their sin to God. We grieve over it and turn forcefully away from it, hating our sin as He does. When we do so, God is “faithful and just” and forgives us—”faithful” because His love is unconditional, and “just” because Christ has already paid the price. When God forgives, He not only chooses to forget the sin (Isa. 43:25) but also purifies and cleanses us as part of His work of sanctification. To declare we never need forgiveness would be to call God a liar (v. 10). Notice the repetition of the word “if” in these three verses. It’s a certainty that we will occasionally stumble and fall. To claim perfection shows that “his word is not in us” and that we’re not really part of His family. >> The forgiveness we first received in Christ is the same forgiveness available to us today, whenever we sin. Thank God for this and make confession a daily part of your time with Him.
Blackouts make my youngest daughter nervous. She hates trying to find her way in the dark, where anything might be lurking. She keeps a flashlight on her dresser for emergencies and knows exactly where the battery- powered camping lanterns are in my home office. Light and darkness are powerful images in John’s biblical writings: “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all” (v. 5). In this metaphor, “light” means truth, life, holiness, goodness, and purity, while “darkness” means lies, death, unrighteousness, evil, and impurity. Similarly, Jesus had said of Himself: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). The next two verses are framed as if/then statements, but not because the “if” is in doubt. Rather, this structure emphasizes the truth or falsehood of the claims made. The point of verse 6, then, is that anyone who claims to be on God’s side but walks in the darkness is lying. “Walking” is a common biblical metaphor that describes daily life activities. How can we discern truth from falsehood? By observing people’s actions. No one who claims fellowship with God can at the same time be living in sin. The opposite and equal point of verse 7 is that those who walk in the light can be confident that they are truly on God’s side. We’re saved, purified by Christ’s blood of our sins and therefore in fellowship with God, as well as and our fellow believers. We’re following Christ, who is Himself perfectly “in the light.” Claims of knowing God must be backed up by the evidence of righteous lives. >> A flashlight or table lamp can help you teach a child in your life a memorable spiritual object lesson. First, sit together in the dark, then turn on the light for contrast. Explain that Jesus is the light of the world, and that when we follow Him we walk in the light.
By the time the apostle John wrote these three letters, he was an elderly and revered leader of the church and perhaps the last living apostle. Once one of the “sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17), John was also “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23). Though he doesn’t directly name himself in these letters, the early church fathers unanimously agreed that John was the author. In addition, John was an eyewitness of the life of Christ. Following the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., John was living and ministering in Ephesus. He wrote these letters to believers in western Asia sometime between 85 A.D. (when he wrote the Gospel of John) and 95 A.D. (when he wrote Revelation). These three letters focus on the assurance of salvation, love and obedience, and recognizing false teaching. At the start of his first letter, John stresses the concrete reality of the Incarnation. He had seen Jesus with his own eyes and heard Him with his own ears (v. 1). The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus were not fiction, but historical fact. Ever since then, John and the other apostles had joyfully testified to the fact that Jesus alone is the way, the truth, and the life (vv. 2, 4; see also John 1:4; 14:6). The “Word of life” brought eternal life for all who believe—this is the good news, the gospel! Christ is the foundation for fellowship with God and with one another (v. 3). The second Person of the Trinity became one of us, paid the penalty for our sins, and conquered death. Only by believing in Him, can we have peace with God and join His family. >> What will you do to get the most out of this month’s study? Make sure you don’t miss a day by downloading our free app. Start a study notebook (notes can also be recorded in the app). Or, go deeper with discussion starters available on our website.
Our anxieties about prayer usually spring from the same question. It is not a question of what God can do. It is a question of what God will do. The fear that God will ignore us is at the heart of most of our concerns about prayer. We do not want to be ignored or our desires to be dismissed. We are afraid that in the end, despite what Jesus told us, God will indeed prove to be like the unjust judge of the parable (Luke 18:1–9). In contrast to this fear, John makes two astonishing and related promises in today’s passage. John says that God hears us if we ask anything that agrees with His will. If God hears us, our request will be granted (v. 14). This confidence motivates us to approach God boldly in prayer. Yet we know from experience that this cannot be a guarantee that we will always get what we want when we pray. “Prayer is not a machine,” C. S. Lewis observed. “It is not magic. It is not advice offered to God.” The key to whether or not God grants our requests does not lie in the form of words we use or even the degree of confidence we have that He can do what we ask. The determining factor has to do with God’s own plan. The fundamental aim of prayer is not to get God to agree with us and follow our agenda. Instead, the goal of prayer is to subdue our hearts to the point where we agree with God. It is the spirit reflected in the words of Christ when He prayed, “yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). >> These words are easier to pray than to mean them. We will only be able to pray them genuinely when we believe the promise of 1 John 5:14 that God truly hears us. He knows what we need. We can trust His answer.
When you are sick, you call the doctor. When your pipes spring a leak, you call the plumber. If your lights don’t work, you call the electrician. Who do you call when you have spiritual needs? In James 5:14 we are told to call “the elders of the church.” We can certainly pray by ourselves when we are facing trouble. This is what verse 13 tells us to do. But sometimes our problems are so great that we need the prayer support of others. The specific example James gives is that of illness. The fact that the elders must be called may indicate that the one who needs prayer is too sick to go to them. Verse 15 shows that prayer can make a difference in such circumstances. We pray for the sick because God is able to “raise them up.” James also says that God will forgive in response to prayer, indicating that sickness is sometimes a consequence of divine discipline. But his conditional language makes it clear that sickness is not always a sign of divine judgment. In addition to prayer, the elders are to anoint with oil. This act symbolizes the role of the Spirit in healing. It is God who saves and raises up. The oil has no inherent healing power. Indeed, James does not even say what kind of oil should be used, nor does he prescribe a particular form of prayer except to say that they should do so “in the name of the Lord” (v. 14). Humility is a prerequisite to effective prayer. Those who pray in the manner James prescribes should confess their sins to each other and pray for one another. Far from being an empty ritual, prayer for others is “powerful and effective” (v. 16). >> Like Elijah, the great prayer warriors in the church’s history have only been ordinary people who believed in the power of prayer. This same power is available to you today.
Eli, the high priest, watched a woman praying intensely at the tabernacle in Shiloh. Hannah’s lips were moving, but Eli could hear no words. He mistakenly concluded that she was mumbling to herself in a drunken stupor. “How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine” he told her. “Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the LORD” (1 Sam. 1:12–15). How would you feel if this happened to you? It’s bad enough to be misunderstood. But to be so misunderstood by someone who is supposed to represent God seems like more than we can bear. Eli was an ordinary priest with many shortcomings and failures. Jesus, on the other hand, is an extraordinary priest who surpasses all those who belonged to the old order of the law of Moses. According to Hebrews 7:15, Jesus became a priest “not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life.” He is not a Levitical priest but a priest “in the order of Melchizedek,” the mysterious figure who received tithes from Abraham and gave a blessing to Abraham (Gen. 14). Nothing in Scripture is revealed about Melchizedek’s origin, lineage, or death. Like someone who is “without beginning of days or end of life,” he foreshadowed the ministry of Christ. Jesus fulfilled all that the law of God required and died as our atoning sacrifice on the cross. He rose from the dead and “always lives to intercede” for us (v. 25). Earthly priests and ministers may let you down, but Jesus never will. >> Let’s face it. There are times when we simply cannot pray. We may be too sad or anxious. Sometimes we are at a loss for words. When we feel that we cannot pray, we know that our high priest, Jesus, always lives to pray for us.
Do you pray before meals? For many years it was customary for families to pray before every meal. But in our modern-day culture, where eating together or without distraction has become less popular, many have forgotten that practice. Saying a blessing before eating is actually a practice found in Scripture. In 1 Timothy 4, Paul is addressing false teaching concerning dietary restrictions done for doctrinal reasons. Paul warns that “in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” (v. 1). Two features of this false teaching are listed in verse 3: forbidding people to marry and abstention from certain foods. Paul does not explain the reasoning behind their prohibitions but instead points out the error. These false teachers did not allow things that “God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth” (v. 3). Paul urges us that “everything God created is good” and introduces the common practice of giving thanks before meals (vv. 4–5). When we give thanks for our meal, we recognize God’s goodness and generosity. Some call this practice “saying grace” because we are acknowledging that God is the source of our food. It comes to us as a gift of His grace. The term grace is related to the Latin word gratia which means thankfulness. The custom of saying grace is reflected in Deuteronomy 8:10, which urges, “When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you.” >> Even Jesus “blessed” the food at meals by giving thanks (Matt. 15:36). Today, before you eat, take time to acknowledge your food as a gift of God. Maybe this will begin or renew a tradition in your family!
Jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald observed, “The only thing better than singing is more singing.” We usually consider singing a form of entertainment. But in the Scriptures, singing is also a mode or prayer. We often say our prayers, but sometimes we sing them. When Paul writes about singing in Ephesians 5, it is in a context that focuses on the Christian lifestyle. Its essence is to “walk in the way of love” (v. 2). Those who choose this way break with their past. Some of the features of this former life are listed in verses 3–5: sexual immorality, impurity, greed, obscene or foolish talk, and coarse joking. Paul offers two primary motivations for this change. First, Christians are to lay aside the old ways because they are incompatible with the life of the kingdom. These things are characteristic of those who oppose God (vv. 6–7). Second, those who are in Christ have experienced a radical change. They were “once darkness” but are now “light in the Lord” (v. 8). Paul does not call Christians to live up to an external standard but to live out the reality of who they are in Christ. Singing is an essential part of this lifestyle. Verses 19–20 describe singing as a form of congregational self-talk. When we sing, we are “speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit” (v. 19). Is there any difference between these three? According to Jeremy Begbie, the term psalm in verse 19 may refer to the Old Testament Psalter, but it can also have a broader meaning (1 Cor. 14:26). A hymn is a song about God or about Christ. Songs “from the Spirit” may have been songs that “were directly generated by the Spirit and thus more spontaneous than psalms or hymns.” >> Music is part of the church’s prayer vocabulary. Do you have a favorite worship song or hymn? Make that song a part of your prayer time today.
Have you ever had a friend ask how they can pray for you? Sometimes this question is hard to answer because there are so many things, we cannot list them all. At other times we can’t think of any pressing need. It can be even harder when we are praying for someone else. In Ephesians 1:15–23 Paul provides us with a template we can use when praying for others. Paul begins by giving thanks to God for the Ephesians (v. 15). When praying for others, we should not pray mechanically; we should give some thought to their life and circumstances beforehand. Next, Paul asks God to increase their understanding. The Holy Spirit had already sealed the Ephesians (v. 13). But Paul prayed that the Holy Spirit would continue to give them wisdom and understanding so they would know Christ better. We can pray for the salvation of others. We can also pray that those who have already trusted in Christ would know Christ better. This involves more than knowing the truths of the Christian faith. The kind of understanding Paul prayed for affects the heart and produces hope. What is the nature of this hope? It is that those who belong to Christ are regarded as God’s inheritance (v. 18). The Christian’s hope is the expectation that we will experience the power of God. This “incomparably great power for us who believe” is the same that “raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realm” (vv. 19–20). We know Christ both by faith and by experience. Pray that they will experience Christ’s resurrection power as they face today’s challenges. Ask God to show how Jesus is “head over everything for the church” and we are “the fullness of him who fills everything in every way” (vv. 22–23). >> Why not use Paul’s template to write a prayer for someone you know? You can also use it to pray for yourself!
When I face a challenge or have a large task to accomplish, I always know that my wife, Jane, will be praying for me. If I feel I need more prayer, I have friends that I can ask. But I always have someone else praying for me, whose voice I have never heard: the Holy Spirit. Paul mentions this mysterious ministry of prayer in the context of a larger discussion about the Spirit’s work in our lives. All those who have the Holy Spirit living in them “are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit” (v. 9). The apostle makes it clear in this same verse that everyone who belongs to Christ also has the Holy Spirit. The Spirit’s presence obligates us to live “according to the Spirit” (v. 12). We do this by living in the power of the Spirit. God’s Spirit enables us to resist the impulses of the sinful nature (v. 13). This does not mean that those who possess the Spirit never struggle. In verse 18 Paul acknowledges that Christians suffer. The struggle may be so intense that even we who “have the firstfruits of the Spirit” often “groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies” (v. 23). The Holy Spirit groans along with us but His groans are prayers. The Spirit “intercedes for us” (v. 26), and “he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God” (v. 27). No wonder Paul can say that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (v. 28). What the Holy Spirit prays always agrees with God’s will. His requests for us are never refused. >> While you may sometimes be at a loss for words, the Holy Spirit never is. “The Spirit helps us in our weakness” (v. 26). He knows just how to pray for you.
Prayer is the common task of ordinary Christians. Maybe you’ve heard someone say at a missionary conference, “Some can go, many can give, all can pray.” Yet there are some in the church who are set apart for a ministry of prayer. According to Acts 6:3–4, prayer and preaching the Word were the two fundamental duties of church leadership. As the early church grew in numbers, its cultural makeup became more diverse and its administrative responsibilities more complex. When the needs of some widows were overlooked, the church brought the matter to the apostles. However, the apostles declined to take on the responsibility. They directed the congregation to choose seven people known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom to address the concern (v. 3). This was not because the apostles felt the ministry was unimportant. The decision was a matter of ordering their priorities. To take on this important ministry would not allow them to give their attention to prayer and the Word. Any person can pray. All Christians should pray. But some believers are called by God to engage in prayer to an even greater degree. Pastors and church leaders have a responsibility to pray for the flock they serve. Some Christians have a special passion that enables them to devote themselves to prayer more than others. Some are in a life situation that enables them to spend much of their time praying for others. Others have taken prayer as a spiritual vocation. The seven who were chosen did more than oversee the church’s ministry to its widows. Stephen was also a dynamic teacher. Similarly, those who have been called to a prayer ministry often do more than pray. The apostles prayed and taught the Word. >> How can you know if God has called you to a special ministry of prayer? The only way is to begin praying. If you would rather pray than do anything else, you may be called to such a ministry.
A foxhole prayer is one prayed in distress. The name comes from the holes that soldiers dug for protection during World War II. A foxhole prayer has two characteristics. First this type of prayer involves a bargain: “God, if you get me out of this, I promise I will...” Second, promises made in these prayers are often quickly forgotten. In today’s passage we see the early church praying during a time of deep distress...but they were not praying a foxhole prayer. Peter and John had been ordered not to teach in the name of Jesus. Despite that threat, they began their prayer by focusing on God’s authority and power. The term they used to address the Lord in verse 24 emphasized that God is the owner or possessor of all things. Everything is under His control. The quotation from Psalm 2:1–2 in verses 25–26 shows that they viewed their circumstances through the lens of God’s unfolding plan. What they were facing was not unforeseen by God. Not only was this true in their case, but also in the suffering of Jesus Christ. When Pontius Pilate and Herod conspired against Jesus, they did what the Lord “had decided beforehand should happen” (v. 28). Everything was unfolding according to God’s plan. The believers made two specific requests. First, they asked God to take note of their situation and enable them to speak the word boldly despite these threats (v. 29). Second, they asked God to thwart the religious leaders’ effort to suppress the name of Jesus. Instead of allowing them to silence the mention of His name, they asked the Lord to “perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus” (v. 30). >> Are you facing a time of deep distress? The Lord takes note of your circumstances and despite the problem, He will accomplish His purpose in your life. Take your troubles to the Lord and ask Him to strengthen you and work through you.
In fashion, an accessory is a non-essential item of clothing or jewelry. It might be a belt or a handbag. But an accessory can also be something that adds value or extends the function of something. For example, a printer and a camera are accessories that extend the capability of your computer. Prayer was foundational to the spiritual life of the early church, but it did not stand alone. Today’s passage provides us with a snapshot of the spiritual life of the early church. It identifies the three foundational habits that supported the church’s prayer life. Luke says that the first Christians “devoted themselves” to these things (v. 42). This is the language of habitual practice. In first place was the habit of sitting under the apostle’s teaching. There is more implied in this phrase than merely listening to someone talk about the Bible. It implies a body of truth handed down to the church by those who were Christ’s representatives. Second on Luke’s list was something he calls “fellowship.” We often use this term to refer to socializing. For us, fellowship time at church may mean little more than small talk and donuts. But it was something more substantial for the early church. The Greek word means “sharing.” It could generally refer to the bond between believers or the sharing of material goods (v. 44). The church also observed “the breaking of bread.” Although this phrase can simply mean that they ate meals together, it seems more likely that it refers to a particular kind of meal. The early believers probably observed the Lord’s Supper every time they met. This memorial meal celebrates Christ’s death and resurrection (1 Cor. 11:23–26). Luke may indicate that the early Christians observed it every time they met (v. 46). >> Does the church life described in Acts 2:42–47 match your own church experience? In what ways do the practices of your congregation differ from or compare to those of the early church? What can we learn from these believers?
As a young Christian, I took Jesus’ admonition in Matthew 6:6 to pray in secret literally. But the translation of the Bible I read at the time was the King James Version, which said, “enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret.” I took that literally so I went into my bedroom, climbed into my messy closet, and prayed in the dark! However, Jesus’ teaching did not forbid public prayer. The plural wording of the Lord’s Prayer (“our Father,” “our daily bread,” “our debts”) implies corporate prayer (Matt. 6:9, 11, 12). After His resurrection, Jesus told the disciples not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promised Holy Spirit (v. 4). Verse 14 tells us how Jesus’ followers occupied themselves during this waiting period when it says that they “all joined together constantly in prayer.” Although we do not have a record of what they prayed for, Luke provides two important details. Believers not only prayed in private but also prayed publicly together. The fact that they “joined together” shows that this was corporate prayer. Luke also implies that the disciples did this over a prolonged period when he says they prayed “constantly.” Perhaps the disciples attended regularly scheduled prayer services at the temple during this waiting period. But they also met for prayer in the upstairs room of the home where they were staying (v. 13). There were no church buildings to meet in at that time. Corporate prayer builds church unity and helps its members get to know one another. It is also a good way to teach new believers how to pray. If you feel nervous about praying in public, you might begin by listening and agreeing silently as others pray aloud. >> Corporate prayer does not have to take place in a church. You can pray with your family at mealtimes or invite friends to your house. Have someone begin and close the time with an “Amen” or Scripture verse.
A preacher once lamented, “My preaching is better than my praying, and my praying is better than my life.” What he meant was that our prayers often reflect our aspirations more than they do our practice. But sometimes, our praying falls short as well. Why do we pray poorly? We aren’t alone. In Luke 22, we see Jesus with His disciples. After leaving the upper room, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Jesus withdrew about a stone’s throw away and gave them one job, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation” (vv. 40– 41). According to Matthew’s version, Jesus said, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me” (Matt. 26:38). But instead of praying, the disciples slept! They weren’t being lazy or insensitive. Luke offers a more natural explanation in verse 45 when he says the disciples were “exhausted from sorrow.” There are many reasons we pray poorly. We may be tired, stressed, or even ill. Sometimes we are distracted by the very problems that we bring to the Lord. Talking about our concerns causes us to think about them, and before we know it, we are just worrying aloud. When Jesus found the disciples sleeping, he woke them and urged them to get up and pray “so that you will not fall into temptation” (v. 45). Some of the things that cause us to pray poorly are under our control. Others are not. But we do not need to pray well to be heard. It is better to pray poorly than not at all. >> There are some simple ways to pray better. First, pray when you are most alert. Second, find a quiet place without distraction. Third, pray using a posture that is more likely to keep you from falling asleep. Some people keep a prayer list or write out their prayers. No matter how you do it: just pray.
Our prayers reveal the matters that are closest to our hearts. Jesus’ prayer shows His concern for His disciples. Jesus prayed for the disciples He was about to leave behind. He also prayed for those who would believe through their message (v. 20). This means that Jesus prayed for us! What did He pray about? First, He prayed for our protection and sanctification. He knew that believers would live in a world marked by sin. He asked God to protect us “from the evil one” (v. 16). He asked that we be sanctified, growing into His likeness, through spending time in His Word (v. 17). God’s Word is truth! Second, Jesus prayed for unity, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you” (v. 21). We often read these words as a wish, as if Jesus were saying, “I hope they will be one.” This human-centered reading places all the responsibility for unity on us. But Jesus made this request to His Father. It is God who makes believers one through Jesus Christ. The unity Christ describes is reflected in the nature of the church which is made up of many members who are united to one another by the Holy Spirit. The church is already one through its union with Jesus Christ. What we are responsible for is the expression of that unity. We can be joined together in conflict and selfishness, or we can “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3). In addition, Jesus also prayed for our heavenly future expressing a desire that “those you have given me” would “be with me where I am, and to see my glory” (v. 24). >> You are precious to God! Reread this prayer aloud. Jesus prayed this just before He was arrested, knowing the tremendous suffering to come and the incredible sacrifice to be made. His thoughts were on you. How great is His love!
After I became a follower of Jesus in my late teens, I wondered if someone had been praying for me to come to faith. Following Christ was not the obvious choice. Our family did not attend church. I thought about the people I knew and couldn’t think of anyone. But today’s passage reveals that at least one person prayed for me. It was Jesus Christ. Jesus prayed on the night of His arrest. Matthew, Mark, and Luke describe how Jesus asked to be spared the cup of suffering if possible (Matt. 26:36–46; Mark 14:32–42; Luke 22:39–46). John’s Gospel does not mention these things, perhaps because he was already aware they were written. Instead, John describes other elements of Jesus’ prayer. He reveals that Jesus not only prayed for Himself but also for those who would believe in Him. When Jesus prayed for Himself, He asked the Father to glorify Him. This was not an egotistical request since the aim was to make the Father known (vv. 1–3). To know Christ is to know the Father. Those who know the Father through Jesus Christ possess eternal life. By glorifying Christ, the Father was restoring Him to the position He had “before the world began” (v. 5). In His prayer Jesus describes His followers as “those whom you gave me out of the world” (v. 6). Believers, as Jesus defines them, are those who accept Christ’s words and believe that He has come from the Father (v. 8). Jesus is glorified through their faith (v. 10). As He anticipated His departure from this world, Jesus prayed for the protection of those who were His. He did not ask God to rescue them out of the world but to preserve them in the midst of it (vv. 13–16). >> Jesus prayed for you! Let the message of this prayer sink deeply into your heart. Consider for whom you can pray today. Whom do you know who needs to come to the Savior?
We sometimes say “I’ll pray for you” when we don’t know what else to say. But praying for someone or in the face of an impossible situation is always the right thing to do. As Jesus showed in Mark 9, prayer is powerful. When the disciples asked Jesus why they had been unable to cast out the demon in today’s passage, Jesus answered, “This kind can come out only by prayer” (v. 29). His reply raises a question of its own. What method had the disciples used instead? The text does not say how the disciples tried to help the boy, only that they had failed in their attempt (v. 18). Their failure caused the boy’s father to question Jesus’ power (vv. 21–22). Between the two, it is not immediately obvious whom Jesus was talking about when He said, “You unbelieving generation” and then, “How long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you?” Was it the boy’s father, the disciples, or the crowd? Perhaps it was all of them. Faith is compatible with action, but action is not an adequate substitute for faith. Whatever it was that the disciples tried to do for the boy, they did in their own strength and failed miserably. Sometimes it is better to act than to pray (see Ex. 14:15). But in most cases, prayer should be our first, not last resort. We can pray as we act. Or, when we are unable to act, we can pray that God will act with a power we do not have. Prayer is the Christian’s primary source of spiritual power. Everything is possible to him who believes, but some things are only possible through prayer. >> Are you facing a problem that seems impossible to solve? Do you have trouble believing that God can work in your situation? Pray the father’s prayer: “Lord Jesus, I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (v. 24).
During some television commercials, you will see text scroll across the bottom of the screen in very tiny letters. If you read the text, which is often nearly impossible, you will find that it contains a legal disclaimer. Usually, it is a warning that the promised result may not happen for everyone. Sometimes our teaching about the promise Jesus makes regarding prayer sounds similar. Because we don’t want people to take it the wrong way, we include so many cautions and disclaimers that we blunt the basic and most important point. God answers prayer. Consider the context of this promise. Jesus made it after the disciples marveled at the miraculous withering of a fig tree by the road (v. 19). Performing this type of miracle seems out of character for Jesus. However, rather than being an act of spite, this was a symbolic act much like those of the Old Testament prophets. “Jesus, fresh from his confrontation with the chief priests and scribes, curses the fig tree, declaring that no fruit would ever come from it again,” theologian Stanley Hauerwas explains. “The tree withered, just as the scribes and chief priests had withered the temple.” Jesus’ disciples were so astonished by the nature of the miracle that they missed the symbolism. Jesus was making a point about faith (v. 20). Jesus assured them that the same power was available to them if they believed (v. 22). God’s answers to our prayer are subject to His will and good purpose for us (1 John 5:14). If God refused Jesus’ request in the Garden of Gethsemane, we should not be surprised to find that He sometimes says no to us (Luke 22:42). >> Prayer is not a blank check, and God is not a vending machine. God is not at our beck and call. Yet prayer is far more powerful than we think. It is the power of God that is the true measure of prayer’s full potential.
Do you ever feel guilty about praying for yourself? Our prayer lists can get so long they look like grocery lists! But we shouldn’t feel bad about this. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray about their personal needs, He began with some of the most basic issues of life. He does not limit us to praying for spiritual needs but begins with a request for “daily bread.” The emphasis on “daily” bread may allude to the way God provided food for Israel each day during their forty-year trek through the wilderness. But it also points to a major difference between our experience and Jesus’ original audience. For many of them, whether they would eat or not was a daily question. Although our circumstances are not as pressing, we too depend upon God for our daily needs. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray for spiritual needs, He focused on the two most important concerns. One was the need for forgiveness (v. 12). The other was the need for preservation from temptation (v. 13). In verses 14–15 Jesus warns about the danger of refusing to forgive others: “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” The warning of verse 14 expands the request for forgiveness in verse 12 to mean “forgive us our debts to the same degree that we have forgiven our debtors.” We don’t earn forgiveness when we forgive others. The experience of God’s grace should prompt us to show grace to others. Only those who know the grace of God by experience can forgive as Jesus describes. >> What is on your prayer list? Jesus teaches us to boldly tell God about our needs. It may be helpful to keep a written record of your prayers so you can celebrate the way God answers.
If your church offered a free class in prayer taught by Jesus Himself, would you enroll? What if I told you there was already such a class? It is found in Matthew 6 where Jesus teaches His disciples a model prayer often called “The Lord’s Prayer.” In Matthew 6:5, Jesus has just described hypocrites who pray to be seen by others, thinking mostly about themselves. Here, He urged His disciples to begin their prayer by focusing on God. We should approach God as our loving heavenly Father (v. 9). When we address God in this way, we remind ourselves that prayer is a relational act. It is a conversation rather than a transaction. When we speak to Him as our Father in heaven, we are not stressing distance but power. Heaven is the domain of God where His will is done (v. 10). When Jesus calls God our Father in heaven. God is exalted above all. Scripture often refers to God as the one who “looks down” from heaven to judge and to act (Ps. 14:2; 33:13; 53:2). Recognizing God’s stature shapes our prayers. Ecclesiastes 5:2 cautions us not to make rash promises to this exalted God: “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.” At the same time, Jesus urges us to address God as our heavenly Father; because of this relationship, we can draw near with confidence. We are to begin praying with a focus on God. According to Jesus, our first concern should be to praise and honor God. >> Do you have the assurance that comes by knowing God as your heavenly Father? The only way you can know God as your Father is through faith in Jesus Christ. According to John 1:12, to all who have believed in Him, “he gave the right to become children of God.”
As a child, many of us were taught to kneel beside our bed to pray. But we can also pray while standing, walking, running, or even lying down. It is not the position we are in when we pray that matters; what is most important is the attitude of the heart. In today’s passage, Jesus describes the proper heart posture, not just for prayer but for all our righteous acts. Jesus warns, “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven” (Matt. 6:1). The fault Jesus highlights is one of motivation. The problem is not that people see us but that we do these things “to be seen by them.” Instead of being an act of worship or a form of communication, this kind of prayer turns into a public performance. As a negative example, Jesus pointed to the practice of those who stood in prominent places such as street corners or the synagogues. This is a reference to the practice of some of the Pharisees, whom commentator Rodney Reeves calls “the fashion models of righteousness.” As a second negative example, Jesus mentioned the pagans “who keep on babbling” in the hope that they could bowl God over with their long prayers (v. 7). The solution Jesus offers is to avoid putting our righteous practice on display. Instead of seeking the spotlight, Jesus urged His listeners to “go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen” (v. 6). Rather than attempting to manipulate God with your words, open your heart and simply ask God for what you need. >> Your prayer does not have to be a work of art or a formal speech. It does not even need to be very long. You are not putting on a performance for God’s benefit or for anyone else. When you pray, simply say what is on your heart, and God will hear.
Not long after I trusted in Christ in my late teens, I decided I needed to spend more time in prayer. I decided that I should pray for at least an hour a day. I knelt by my bedside, prayed for myself and then friends and family. When it seemed like an hour had passed, I glanced at the clock. It had only been a few minutes! Being persistent in prayer is not a matter of recording the minutes or hours. It is the pattern of praying for the same thing repeatedly over a long period. In today’s parable, Jesus compares it to a widow who repeatedly comes to a judge with her plea. In verse 2, Jesus describes the judge as someone “who neither feared God nor cared what people thought.” With this picture, Jesus accurately captures the imbalance of power we often feel in prayer. The answer lies in God’s hands, and we do not always feel that He takes notice of us. Jesus’ point is not that God is like that disinterested judge, who only takes note of the woman’s case so that she will quit bothering him. God is deeply interested in those who approach Him in prayer. Jesus is showing that God will not ignore our requests. God will not be slow in His response. God will not refuse to deal justly with those who come to Him for help. Yet the story also shows our perspective. We may sometimes feel as if God is both slow and unfeeling toward us when we pray. We may begin to doubt Him. Remember that our definition of what is “quick” may not be the same as Jesus’ definition. However, God’s answers to our prayers are always right on time. >> Have you been waiting for God to answer a particular prayer? Do not be afraid to pray it again and again. God welcomes the prayers of His chosen ones, “who cry out to him day and night” (v. 7).
Picture the scene for a moment. The Old Testament prophet Jonah is hunkered down on the outskirts of Nineveh, pouting because God did not do what he wanted. The scene may seem laughable to us. But if we’re honest, we will admit there are times when we too get irritated with God. Jonah was so angry that he asked God to “take away” his life (v. 3). Jonah had no right to be angry at the Lord for His compassion toward the Ninevites (3:10). Yet Jonah did not hesitate to express his frustration. What should we do when we feel angry with God? Tell Him! God already knows what you are feeling. God perceives our thoughts “from afar,” and before a word is on our tongue, He knows it “completely” (Psalm 139:2, 4). He is big enough to absorb any anger we may feel. However, analyzing Jonah’s anger toward God may help us moderate our own. Although Jonah felt his anger was justified, he is clearly mistaken. First, he has overstepped his bounds. God is the only One who is in control. Jonah could not even make the plant that gave him shade grow (v. 10). Why would he think that he should control the fate of other nations? Second, Jonah was thinking mainly of himself. Jonah seems to take God’s grace for granted just as he did the shade from the plant that God caused to grow up over his head (vv. 2–3). Third, Jonah’s anger failed to consider the larger scope of God’s interest. God is interested in us. But He is also interested in those around us. God cares about us, but He also cares about the rest of creation (v. 11). >> You should not be afraid to express your anger to God. But do not think that you can pressure God into doing what you want. God hears our prayers and responds to them. But He is not at our beck and call.
“I have a question, but before I ask it, I want you to say ‘yes.’” Nearly every parent has heard such a request from their child. The only reasonable response is to admit that we can’t guarantee what our answer will be until we have first heard the request. Some of the hardest requests we make in prayer are those when we are unsure of what the answer should be. This is especially true when we already desire a specific answer. David made such a request after his first child by Bathsheba was born. When he confessed his sin, the prophet informed David, “The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for the LORD, the son born to you will die” (2 Sam. 12:13–14). David spent the next seven days pleading with God for the child. During that period, the elders of David’s court gathered around him in concern and attempted to persuade him to eat. But after the child died, David dressed himself, went into the Lord’s house to worship, then returned home and asked for food. We can hear the turmoil of David’s thoughts in verses 22 and 23, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, ‘Who knows? The LORD may be gracious to me and let the child live.’ But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.” David’s behavior shows his doubts, but also his trust in God’s answer. >> We can make bold requests even when we are unsure how God will answer. You may not always be sure how (or when) God will answer your prayers, but you can always be certain of His goodness. God always knows what is best for you.
We can imagine that on that long walk home, his stomach aching with hunger, the prodigal son wrestled with what he would say to his father. This is usually true of anyone who confesses wrongdoing. Whether we are admitting guilt to a parent, spouse, or even God, we plan our words in advance. Psalm 32 shows us how to talk to God when we have sinned. The Psalmist begins by contrasting the benefits of forgiveness with the experience of guilt (vv. 1–4). Then in verse 5 he gives a basic definition of what is involved in confession. When we confess our sin, we acknowledge our sin to God. Commentator Ellen T. Cherry calls this the “center” of the Psalm. The root of the word translated as “acknowledge” means “to know.” We are often unwilling to admit our sin to God because we refuse to admit it to ourselves. It is a mistake to act as if we have nothing to confess. On the other hand, verse 6 says that all the “faithful ones” (literally, “all the godly”) will acknowledge their sin just as David did. Psalm 51:17 describes our “broken spirit” as our sacrifice to God. “A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” The psalm describes not only confession, but offers hope. Those who try to cover up sin will find only guilt and unhappiness. Those who openly admit their sin will find forgiveness and relief. Refusing to face your sin only leads to trouble. Acknowledging your sin in God’s presence opens the door to joy and righteousness (v. 11). >> Do you need to admit your sin to God? Be specific as you confess it to Him. God will not turn away anyone who seeks forgiveness through Christ. As 1 John 1:9 promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
The story of the prodigal son is arguably Jesus’ most famous parable. After squandering his inheritance, the younger son in the parable returns home in shame and confesses, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son” (Luke 15:21). Although the prodigal felt unworthy to be called a son, he was not too ashamed to say “Father.” In Isaiah 64, God’s people admit that their prayers do not deserve to be heard. Even so, they remember the way God has delivered His people in the past: “You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. But when we continued to sin against them, you were angry. How then can we be saved?” Unrighteousness means more than doing the wrong kinds of things. It is not just one or many things we do, it is a condition. The presence of sin defiles even our best actions. Consequently, verse 6 laments, “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.” If we are unrighteous, how can we pray? Do we deserve to be heard by a holy God? According to verses 8–9, we should come to God as our Father: “Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Do not be angry beyond measure, Lord; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look on us, we pray, for we are all your people.” Notice that this appeal is based on a relationship, not performance. God forgives because He loves us, not because we’ve earned it. >> Do you worry about things you’ve done? Do you wonder how God will respond if you turn to Him? Jesus’ parable provides the answer: “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him” (Luke 15:20).
If you’ve ever been away from home for a long period of time, you have probably experienced homesickness. We find a similar type of longing expressed in the Psalms. When we are homesick for God we long for past experiences of His presence. Or, we long to be reunited with Him for all eternity in our heavenly home. In Psalm 63, a Psalm which David wrote while in the desert of Judah, he compares his longing for God to the thirst one feels when “in a dry and parched land where there is no water” (v. 1). As David describes a kind of nostalgia based on past spiritual experience, he speaks of seeing God “in the sanctuary” (v. 2). It is unlikely that David is speaking of seeing God in the literal sense but of the power and glory represented by the services which took place there. These past experiences set the pattern for David’s life of devotion. In verses 3–4 he expresses his intent to praise and glorify God with his lips. David’s habit of thinking about God “through the watches of the night” serves as a reminder of his complete dependence on God, causing David to “cling” to Him (v. 8). These descriptions give us a clue to some of the spiritual disciplines that informed David’s prayer life. He mentions three in particular: public worship at the sanctuary, worship through song, and private meditation on God’s character, especially during the watches of the night. These reminders not only instilled a sense of longing for God, they also helped him sense God’s presence when going through great difficulty. Longing for God is both a motivation to pray and a result of those prayers. >> Difficulties do not have to drive away our sense of God. David wrote these words during a time of great stress in his life (vv. 8-11). When you seek God through prayer during times of trial and difficulty, you may sense His presence in an even more powerful way.
Who do you run to when you are afraid? David spent a significant portion of his life on the run. As a young man, he fled from King Saul (1 Sam. 21:10). In later years, after his son Absalom mounted a palace coup against him (2 Sam. 15:14), he hid in the wilderness. It is unclear when David wrote Psalm 27, but it may well have been early in his life. David’s wilderness experience taught him to see God as a stronghold (v. 1). A stronghold was a place one went for protection, perhaps a mountain cave or a fortress. It was during these wilderness times that David developed a strong personal relationship with God. David considered the Lord not only his defender but also his friend. In this Psalm David longs for the presence of the Lord. The experience of God’s presence was so important that he requests it in verse 4: “One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek.” His own heart tells him to seek God’s face, and he eagerly expresses his desire to do this very thing (v. 8). David’s friendship with God enabled him to speak boldly about his fears, desires, and hopes. But it is clear from the way David alternates between speaking to himself and addressing his audience that he is not saying these things for his benefit alone. What was true for David can also be true of us. When David speaks about seeking God’s face, he is using metaphorical language. David undoubtedly remembered that when Moses asked to see God, he was warned that no one could see God’s face and live (Ex. 33:20). What David longed for was to be in God’s presence. >> Are you feeling anxious? Alone? Scared? Through the Holy Spirit, you can experience the reality of God’s presence. When we pray, we sense God’s presence in a tangible way. Romans 8:16 says, “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Time has a way of slipping by without our notice. Of course, the opposite happens when we are waiting for something, whether it be the coffee pot to fill or our vacation to begin. We become painfully aware of time when we are wanting something to happen. Especially when we are waiting for God. Sometimes we get frustrated by waiting for God to act. We may begin to wonder if God knows or cares about our situation. That feeling was certainly familiar to the Israelites. Today’s passage describes the birth and early life of Moses that took place during a time the Lord had predicted to Abram, when God’s people were “strangers in a country not their own” (Gen. 15:13). Although Abram’s descendants spent 400 years there, the “long period” to which verse 23 refers in Exodus 2 is probably a reference to Moses’ stay in Midian. During those years the Israelites “groaned in their slavery and cried out.” These cries were probably not prayers in our formal sense but cries of anguish. Did God know their situation? Did He care? In the Hebrew text of verses 24–25, three verbs describe God’s response. The text says He heard their groaning, remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and knew. Unlike the first two verbs, there is no object given for the third. It simply says, “God knew.” These three actions of God occur during the “long period” that stretched from Moses’ birth until God called him at the burning bush. We can be sure they also describe what God was doing during the 400 years of apparent silence as God’s people waited for Him to do what He had promised. >> Are you waiting for God to answer your prayer? Waiting can be long and hard. It may feel at times like God is ignoring you. But what was true for Israel is also true for you. God has heard your cry. He remembers His promises. God knows.
When asked to define prayer, 19th- century preacher F. W. Robertson said this: “It is to connect every thought with the thought of God, to look on everything as His work and His appointment, to submit every thought, wish, and resolve to Him to feel His presence so that it shall restrain us even in our wildest joy.” But a much simpler definition of prayer is simply to ask. In today’s passage, Abraham asks God a series of bold questions when he learns that the Lord is about to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham’s concern is reflected in his first question, expressed in verse 23: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” Abraham had a specific reason to be concerned. His nephew Lot lived in Sodom with his family. Although the patriarch does not mention Lot by name, it seems likely that Abraham was afraid they would be swept up in the city’s destruction. Abraham asked a second question in verse 25: “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” Speaking freely, Abraham knew God would do the right thing. To us, this exchange may sound like bargaining, but they did not haggle. There was no back and forth in Abraham’s negotiations. The Lord yielded at every threshold until the limit reached a number that Abraham believed was a sure thing. God promised not to destroy the city if ten righteous people could be found in it (v. 32). Unfortunately, even this number was not low enough! Here God demonstrated His grace not only in patiently hearing Abraham’s petitions but also by eventually granting the one thing the patriarch did not explicitly request. God spared Lot’s life. >> What is prayer? As we continue this month’s study, we will see that it has many dimensions. But at its most basic level, prayer is asking God something with confidence that He will do what is right. What do you need from God today? Boldly ask and then trust His answer.
You might think that doubt has no place in prayer. After all, doubt seems like the opposite of faith. Hebrews 11:6 warns that “without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” In Genesis 15, Abram’s response to God’s promise to be his “shield” and his “very great reward” seems to be grounded in doubt. Abram’s answer is essentially a complaint: “You have given me no children” (v. 3). Abram was 75 years old, and his wife was 60 when God initially called him to leave his family and his native country and relocate “to the land I will show you” where the Lord promised to make him a “great nation” (Gen. 12:1–2). The only flaw in this plan was that Abram and Sarai had remained childless up to this point. By natural standards, Sarai was now past the years of childbearing, and Abram was “as good as dead” where children were concerned (Heb. 11:12). Instead of being angry with Abram for raising this objection, the Lord reaffirmed His promise. God’s word was enough. Abram believed God’s promise, and He “credited it to him as righteousness” (Gen. 15:6). The Lord also reiterated His promise to give Abram the land of Canaan as a possession. He sealed this promise with a solemn covenant ritual and a prediction that Abram’s descendants would be slaves “in a country not their own” but would eventually “come out with great possessions” (vv. 13–14). This covenant ceremony emphasized God’s role in bringing these promises to fulfillment. It is not a contract between two equal parties, but an unconditional covenant made and ratified by God (see also Gal. 3:17; Heb. 6:13–14). >> Do you struggle with doubt? It is okay to express those doubts to God in prayer. But the best remedy is to remind yourself of what God has already said and done. God’s Word is always true; He will never break His promises.
When my children were small, I was often amazed at their confidence in me. While they were sure I could fix any broken thing they put in my hands, I knew that I couldn’t. God is a different matter. If the world were not broken, we would not need to pray. Prayer is needed because we will always face circumstances that go beyond our ability. The good news is that, unlike a human parent, God has the power to fix it. The first explicit mention of prayer in the Bible does not come until sin had made its first serious inroads into human experience. In Genesis 4, we read that Cain murdered Abel and was sentenced to a life of restless wandering. Cain’s descendant Lamech became a polygamist (v. 19). Lamech’s boast in verse 23 suggests he had a violent nature. “Lamech’s short poem demonstrates the progress and magnification of sin among humans,” Old Testament commentator Andrew Steinmann observes. Yet the news is not all bad. We see God’s common grace at work as Lamech’s son Jabal becomes the first to live in tents and raise livestock, and his brother Jubal is the first to play stringed instruments and pipes (vv. 20–21). Both were born of Lamech’s wife, Adah. Lamech’s other wife, Zillah, gave birth to Tubal-Cain, “who forged all kinds of tools out of bronze and iron” (v. 22). However, the most important cultural development came after Eve gave birth to “another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him” (v. 25). Seth became the father of Enosh, and “at that time people began to call on the name of the LORD” (v. 26). >> As sin and the damage resulting from it spread, we see people divide into two basic categories. One group did not know God. The other called upon God by name. If we divided up the world today, to which group would you belong?
What is prayer? The simplest answer is that prayer is talking to God. But it may also be helpful to reverse the question. What is the opposite of prayer? Jesus describes what prayer should not look like in the parable recorded in Luke 18:9–14. Prayer is not self-congratulation. It is not a matter of reciting your spiritual resume. Instead, prayer means coming to God as you are, recognizing your deep need, and expressing it to Him. To make this point, Jesus contrasted the way two very different people approached God: a Pharisee and a tax collector. The Pharisee, rather than expressing a personal need or offering praise to God, used prayer to brag about his spiritual accomplishments (vv. 11–12). By contrast, the tax collector approached God from a distance (v. 13). Perhaps he was reluctant to draw any closer than the outermost court of the temple. Instead of prai- sing himself, the tax collector felt so unworthy that he “would not even look up to heaven.” He beat his breast, a gesture that signified deep mourning or shame (Luke 23:48). The Jews of Jesus’ day considered tax collectors to be Roman collaborators, people who epitomized dishonesty and greed. But as he considered each of their prayers, Jesus said that only the tax collector went home forgiven. Jesus’ parable reminds us that the God who knows every word we utter before it is on our lips also knows the state of our heart (Ps. 139:4). You do not need to put on airs when you pray to God. We must come as we are. Like the old song says: “Just as I am, without one plea / But that Thy blood was shed for me / And that Thou bid’st me come to thee/ O Lamb of God, I come, I come.” >> The tax collector’s words are the basis for what some call the Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Spend time alone with God today putting this lesson into practice.
Last week a man came to refinish our kitchen floor. While he worked, I studied Luke on the patio. As he passed by, he noticed my Bible and asked what I was doing. That question began a long gospel conversation. Written many years ago, this record of Jesus’ life is powerful! Luke finishes his Gospel with a final resurrection appearance that adds to the body of evidence. First, while the disciples were still marveling at the reported encounters, Jesus appeared. In His gloried body, He could pass through walls and doors. He came and went supernaturally. He said, “Peace be with you” (v. 36). This offer of goodwill and comfort was more than a simple greeting. Jesus defeated sin and death, and now He offered unparalleled peace. Despite His words, they were “startled and frightened” (v. 37). They thought this was a ghost and were slow to embrace the reality that Jesus was alive. Jesus challenged their doubt and offered additional proof. He invited them to touch His hands and feet. They were amazed and joyful, but still did not fully believe. Then, Jesus asked for food—another confirmation that He was flesh and bone. As they once again communed around the table, eating broiled fish, Jesus reminded them of His previous teaching. The Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms must (dei) be fulfilled. There’s that providential word again. The disciples were witnessing what God’s Word had promised; He was the One they had been expecting! Jesus gave them a final review in gospel mission. He had to suffer, die, and rise again, so repentance and forgiveness could be preached in Jerusalem and all nations. But first, they would receive the Holy Spirit. Luke closes with a summary of Jesus’ ascension, later detailed in Acts 1. >> The gospel is such good news you cannot keep it to yourself. As you reflect on what you learned from Luke’s Gospel, ask God to give you an opportunity to share it. Do you know someone who needs to come to Christ?
One Sunday morning, two Christ- followers were walking the seven-mile journey from Jerusalem to their home in Emmaus. Their minds were no doubt still reeling by the turn of events which ended with Jesus crucified. Suddenly, Jesus joined them, but the passive verb (“were kept,” v. 16) suggests God prevented them from recognizing Him. This friendly “stranger” asked the men about their discussion. The Greek word syzentein suggested they were having a debate. His question surprised them. How could He not know what had happened in Jerusalem? When Jesus probed further, ironically, they told Him what had happened (as if He did not know!). They recounted the week’s events—the trial and crucifixion. And they confessed their hope that Jesus would redeem Israel. But that wasn’t all. They also told of the women, the empty tomb, and the angels, who said He was alive. Yet no one had seen Him. Jesus rebuked them, calling them foolish and slow of heart. They should have believed the prophets. “Did not the Messiah have to (dei) suffer?” (v. 26). That word again indicated God’s longstanding plan of deliverance. Their hope had not been dashed; rather, it had been satisfied. Jesus stayed with them. At the table, He gave thanks and broke bread, reminiscent of the Lord’s Supper. And as they spent time with Jesus, their eyes were opened. Just as they recognized Him, He disappeared. Their sorrow turned to joy, and they had to share the news immediately. Though it was late, they returned to Jerusalem and found the eleven. The women were reporting that Jesus had appeared to Simon. Then the two witnesses shared their story. The evidence was growing! Jesus was not dead. He had risen indeed! >> The gospel is good news! Just as those who saw Jesus had to run and tell others, so we too have the joy of sharing about the miracle of the resurrection. We serve a living Savior! Let’s tell everyone we know about Him.
The resurrection is essential to the faith. By it, Jesus conquered sin and death and proved His deity conclusively. It is no wonder that Luke records these events with precision. Joseph of Arimathea, a Sanhedrin member, had not agreed with the decision to put Jesus on trial. We do not know if he believed Jesus was the Messiah. We do know he was “good and upright” and was waiting for the kingdom of God (23:50). Joseph went to Pilate, who was also sympathetic, and asked for Jesus’ body. He was following the law regarding a criminal’s body (Deut. 21:22–23), but he did not treat Jesus’ body as criminal. Instead, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed Him in a new tomb. Because it was Friday (“preparation day” for Sabbath), Joseph finished before sunset. Some women were watching. They had followed Jesus from Galilee and presumably had been present for His triumphal entry and trial. To their dismay, they watched His crucifixion (Luke 23:49). They vowed to return to cover His body with spices, an act of honor. Early on Sunday morning, the women returned to the tomb, and what they saw shocked them. Jesus’ body was gone. Suddenly, two men in gleaming robes appeared saying that He had risen. They used the verb tense (aorist passive) which indicated that God was responsible. The angels reminded the women that Jesus had predicted this (24:7). “Must” is the Greek word dei, which alludes to the sovereignty of God’s plan. Luke used the word eighteen times. When When the women told the disciples the news, the men responded with skepticism. Only Peter wanted to see for himself. When he saw the empty tomb, he went away “wondering” (v. 21). His full conviction would require additional encounters, which were still to come. >> If you or someone you know would like to learn more about evidence surrounding the resurrection, consider Lee Strobel’s book, The Case for Christ.
People respond to the gospel message in various ways. Some scoff. Others are hostile or ambivalent. A few believe. As we read Luke’s record of Jesus’ crucifixion, we see people react in different ways. First we meet Simon from Cyrene. Simon, likely a Jew, had traveled from northern Africa to celebrate the Passover with his two sons (Mark 15:21). When the weakened Jesus was unable to carry the cross, Simon was forced to help. What an intimate connection Simon had to Jesus, feeling His blood and sharing His pain! In the crowd were some who had called for Jesus’ crucifixion. Also present were women from Galilee. Jesus told them not to weep for Him, but for those who reject Him. Their judgment would be so great that they would cry for creation to bury them (Hosea 10:8). The crucifixion is recorded very briefly (v. 33). Jesus and two criminals were nailed to crossbeams, raised and attached to upright poles. Even in his agony, Jesus prayed to forgive those who crucified Him. He showed love to His enemies, just as He had taught (6:29, 35). The soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ clothes (Psalm 22:18). The people watched, the rulers sneered, and the soldiers mocked (vv. 35, 36). One of the crucified criminals joined their taunting (v. 35). The second criminal rebuked the first, arguing their guilt and Jesus’ innocence. He believed Jesus and asked to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus promised him an immediate place in paradise (v. 43). At midday, the sky darkened in solemn testimony. The Temple curtain tore in two, revealing new access to God. Jesus spoke final words from Psalm 31:5, reflecting His trust in the Father. In response, the centurion praised God. He saw the truth and had the final word. >> Jesus endured a horrific death so we could experience the forgiveness of sins. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel today. Pray that God would go before you to open eyes and hearts.
The court of public opinion can be cutting, ruthless, easily swayed. In the age of social media, we often see people jump to quick and harmful conclusions. In Luke 22 and 23, with Jesus’ arrest, trial, and sentencing, we see how quickly people at every level turned against Jesus. When Jesus submitted to His arrest, one of His followers lashed out with a sword and cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant (22:50). Jesus said. “No more of this!” (v. 51). Then, when Jesus was taken to the high priest, Peter denied Him three times (22:54–65). Only days before, some had hailed Jesus as king, but now they condemned Him. When the first trial was held before the Sanhedrin (22:66 71), the chief priests bated Jesus: “If you are the Messiah...tell us” (v. 67). They wanted evidence of political insurrection to give to the Roman authorities. The chief priests and religious leaders took Jesus to Pilate and made their case, no doubt frustrated when Pilate proclaimed Him innocent (23:1–5). Because Jesus was a Galilean, Pilate handed him off to Herod. The ruler was at first delighted to meet Jesus hoping to see a miracle, but his interaction with Jesus left him unimpressed. Mocking Jesus, they sent Him back to Pilate. Luke 23:13–25 records the third trial. Pilate held an open court before the chief priests and the people. Both rulers came to the same conclusion: “He has done nothing to deserve death” (v. 15). But the crowd’s voice grew even louder. They begged for Barabbas. Pilate tried twice more to reason with them, but the people continued to shout—louder and louder. Finally, they prevailed. Pilate caved in to political pressure and “surrendered Jesus to their will” (v. 25). Jesus would be crucified. >> Today, reflect on your own commitment to Christ. We live in a time when the majority voice is loud and strong. Our resolve to follow Jesus may sometimes falter, but when we remain in Him we are strong (2 Cor. 12:9–11).
Are you willing to take a stand for Christ? As our culture leans further away from God and the Bible, living our faith boldly becomes harder, and perhaps even more important. For Jesus’ disciples, the time had come for them to take a stand. Luke 22 records their preparations for the Passover meal. Everything happened just as Jesus said it would (vv. 7–13). At the table, Jesus spoke with great emotion about His approaching suffering and death. Then, He served the bread, making of it a fresh symbol—His body, broken on their behalf. The cup, too, was given new meanin —His blood, shed for them for the forgiveness of sins (vv. 14–20). But the biggest surprise was when Jesus announced that His betrayer was present (v. 21). The disciples responded with confusion. Who could it be? At the same time, they began a petty debate over who would be the greatest among them (v. 24). Even while Jesus faced betrayal by someone in their midst, they were concerned about their own glory in the future kingdom of God. With unparalleled patience, Jesus reminded them that He had taught them to be different from the world. He did not call them to rule; He called them to serve. And in an act of grace, He still promised them a future place of prominence by His side. In verse 31, Jesus spoke directly to Peter. Satan had asked to test Peter, much like He had with Job. Jesus predicted Peter’s fall and restoration and promised His own prayers of intercession. Peter was taken aback by this information. He denied his own ability to waver and declared complete allegiance. But Jesus knew Peter even better than Peter did. He would deny Jesus not just once, but three times. >> There may be times when you will be tempted to deny or downplay the gospel or your allegiance to Jesus Christ. In our daily prayer time, we can ask God for boldness to speak the truth and to stand for Him no matter what.
Christina Rossetti expresses our longing to worship Jesus with a generous heart: “What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part; Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.” In Luke 19, Jesus did not come quietly into Jerusalem. First, He drove the merchants out of the Temple (19:45–46). Then, He returned to teach. While the religious leaders were plotting to kill Him, the people were hanging on His every word. The chief priests challenged Jesus, questioning His authority (20:1–8). They tried (unsuccessfully) to trap Him with their logic. They even sent spies to try to catch Him in some arrestable offense (20:20–26). Jesus issued one final public warning to His disciples in the presence of all the people. “Beware of the teachers of the law” (v. 46). Why were these teachers of the law so dangerous? The primary reason was their pride. These religious leaders sought glory for themselves with their fancy robes and seats of honor. They stole from widows’ estates while at the same time voicing long and pretentious prayers. Jesus condemned these actions. But Luke 21 begins with a very different picture. Jesus noticed a poor widow make her way to the Temple treasury and put in “two very small copper coins” (v. 2). These coins were the smallest currency possible, worth about 1/100 of a denarius, or what the average laborer would make for five minutes of work. But Jesus knew what a generous gift this was. The widow gave “out of her poverty,” she “put in all she had to live on” (v. 4). Jesus called this poor widow’s small donation the greater gift. >> We have been blessed beyond measure by the gift of Jesus whose birth we celebrate today! “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15). May we give back to Him with open hearts, offering all that we have.
Royal processions from England to Thailand to South Africa have certain elements in common: uniformed soldiers, banners and flags, and a gloriously bedecked king—riding in an ornate horse-drawn carriage or carried on a golden, jeweled throne. In today’s passage, Jesus paused near the Mount of Olives—two miles from Jerusalem—to orchestrate His procession. He told two disciples to go into a nearby village (probably Bethphage or Bethany) and retrieve the unridden colt they would find there. If anyone questioned them, they should say, “The Lord needs it.” At that time, a dignitary or rabbi could borrow property at will, so Jesus’ request was not unusual. The disciples followed the instructions, and Jesus’ predictions proved true. He not only predicted the donkey; He knew the entire sequence of events that would culminate in His own death. This knowledge did not stop Him. The disciples draped their cloaks on the colt; other people spread their garments on the road. As the procession passed the Mount of Olives, the crowd of disciples broke out in joyful praise to God using the words of Psalm 118:26 and calling Jesus “the king.” The fact that their adoration was for His miraculous power was telling and helps us understand why many of these same people would turn their back on Him just days later. Some Pharisees were also in the crowd, keeping an eye. They told Jesus to silence His disciples. The royal references were too much. But Jesus told them that if His disciples didn’t cry out, creation would anyhow. The rocks understood who He was even more than the religious leaders. Then, in His final approach to Jerusalem, Jesus wept over the city. Their rejection would cost them everything. >> On this Christmas Eve, we remember Jesus as a baby in a manger. Perhaps you have a donkey in your nativity set. But just years later, Jesus would ride a donkey and be celebrated as king. Today, we honor both the baby and the King!
In the 1946 Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, the antagonist is a greedy real estate owner, Mr. Potter. Daring to stand up to the powerful man, George Bailey says, “You think the whole world revolves around you and your money. Well, it doesn’t.” In Luke 18, a rich ruler paid a visit to Jesus. The man asked, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (v. 18). He addressed Jesus as “good teacher” out of respect. In his world, earthy credentials were esteemed. But before Jesus answered his question, He rejected the title. “No one is good—except God alone” (v. 19). Then Jesus directed the ruler back to the Ten Commandments (Ex. 20:12–16), specifically the final five, which address how we love our neighbor. Like many wealthy individuals, this man prioritized his possessions over people. In defense, the rich ruler claimed he had followed these commands since childhood. He saw himself as sinless. But Jesus continued, turning his attention indirectly to the early commandments: to love the Lord above all else. He challenged the man with this specific instruction: “Sell everything you have and...follow me.” Ultimately, the challenge Jesus gave was not a financial request. It was a heart check. In what did this man put his trust? The ruler was sad. His identity was so tied to his wealth that he couldn’t fathom parting with it. Seeing his sorrow, Jesus commented on the powerful pull of earthly fortune. The disciples were a bit concerned. Peter asked if they had satisfied the “leave everything” requirement. Jesus assured them that anyone who puts the kingdom of God above all else will be blessed by God in this life and for eternity. >> It is easy to put our trust in our wealth. But Jesus challenges that idea. How does that change the way you view your finances? In this season of giving, consider putting your faith into action by generously supporting God’s work.
It is easy during the holidays to feel the financial pinch. With so many extra expenses, from buying presents to decorating to family activities and travel, we may be tempted to believe that more money would mean more Christmas cheer. But money is not the answer to happiness. Luke 16 begins a lengthy section of Jesus’ teachings on the use of resources. Today’s parable is unique to Luke and is the only one to include a named character. Fittingly, the name Lazarus is from Eleazar (“God helps”). In contrast, the “rich man” is not named. He represents all those who idolize wealth. The rich man wore purple (the color of wealth) and fine linen; he lived luxuriously. Lazarus—a beggar— laid at his gate, likely crippled. Lazarus was covered with sores and was starving. He was so helpless that the dogs licked his wounds, which made him unclean. Then, in an instant, the tables turned. The beggar died and was escorted by angels, like royalty, to Abraham’s side. The rich man was banished to hell and torment. It may amaze you that the rich man still saw Lazarus as inferior. He believed he could manipulate the situation and begged Abraham to send Lazarus to serve him. But Abraham refused. The good things that the rich man had enjoyed were now given to Lazarus to enjoy eternally. And the pain Lazarus endured was now inflicted on the rich man for eternity. The rich man begged Abraham to warn his five brothers, who were also materialistic, of what was to come. But Abraham reminded the rich man that his brothers had the Word of God. They should listen to it and live by it. >> What are simple, no-cost ways you can celebrate this Christmas? Maybe it is reading a favorite Christmas story aloud by candlelight. Or putting on an at-home Christmas pageant with your children or grandchildren. Consider special ways you can honor God with your celebration of this holiday.
We usually refer to the story of the wayward son in Luke 15 as “The Parable of the Prodigal Son.” But some suggest it should be called “The Parable of the Forgiving Father.” At the beginning of Luke 15, tax collectors and sinners had flocked to Jesus to hear Him teach. Not surprisingly, the Pharisees disapproved of His socializing with “sinners.” In response, Jesus told three parables describing His love for the lost. The Prodigal Son story is the third and most detailed. It is also unique to the book of Luke. In the parable, a young brother, like the greedy tax collectors, asked his father for his share of the estate. According to the law, he would have received one-third of everything (Deut. 21:17). Granting this request put the father in financial jeopardy, yet he complied and let the sinner go his way. The prodigal squandered his inheritance on wild living. Then, a famine struck the land. In a desperate state, the young man took the only job he could find, feeding swine—a dishonorable act for a Jew. As he eyed the pigs’ food with envy, he recognized his wrongdoing and decided to return home and repent. The father’s run to the son would have shocked Jesus’ audience. Culturally, a disrespected father would have waited for some indication of remorse. But this father’s forgiveness was exceptional. He kissed his son. Then he called for robes, rings, and a fatted calf for a feast. We can understand the over-the-top love of this father as a picture of God. The older son represented the Pharisees who complained about justice and equality, showing no mercy to those in need. Incredibly, the father responded to him with even more grace. “You are always with me, and everything I have is yours.” >> Who are we in this story? Are we the younger son, running away from the father? Or are we the older son, resentful and unforgiving? Pray that God will use this story to speak to your own heart.
The Jewish people expected God’s kingdom to come suddenly, powerfully, and completely. In today’s passage, Jesus corrected this misperception. First, He used the parable of the mustard seed. A man took the tiny seed and planted it in his garden, where it became a great tree and birds filled its branches. Jesus was envisioning a large cedarlike tree, which grew to be twenty-five feet tall. Such growth from a minuscule beginning was unexpected—even supernatural. This tree referenced similar imagery in Ezekiel 17:22–24. Prophesying the restoration of Davidic rule, the Lord took a shoot from a cedar and planted it on a mountain. It produced branches and fruit, where birds of every kind (people of all nations) found shelter and peace. The mustard seed parable communicated the surprising way the kingdom of God would grow from an unassuming beginning to eventually cover the earth, providing refuge for many. With the parable of the leaven, Jesus was making a similar point. A woman took a pinch of yeast and mixed it into a huge amount o flour (three seah equals almost fifty pounds). Over time, that bit of yeast permeated the entire loaf. Though Jesus’ ministry started small, God’s plan was unfolding. His kingdom would grow and penetrate the world. Nothing on earth could stop it. As Jesus continued toward Jerusalem, someone asked, “Are only a few people going to be saved?” Jesus’ teaching had raised concern that salvation for Israel was not as certain as they assumed. Jesus’ reply “make every effort to enter through the narrow door” (v. 24) confirmed this suspicion. Jesus provided a single and specific gateway to the kingdom. Any who failed to enter by that door, would miss the opportunity to attend the kingdom feast (vv. 29–30). >> No matter how sincere your belief, there is only one way to heaven. Many believe there are multiple truths and multiple ways to God. This passage speaks in direct contradiction to that philosophy.
Do you tend to worry? Most of us do! In Luke chapter 12, Jesus spoke on this topic. He urged His followers to fear God more than people (vv. 1–12). They should build treasure in heaven—and not on earth (vv. 13–21). They were to keep an eternal perspective (vv. 35–48). And, finally, they should not worry about this life. The verb tense here implies a condition of being continually free from anxiety, an instruction repeated by Paul in Philippians 4. The specific focus in these verses is worry over the basics of life, like clothing and food. Jesus’ disciples did not need to be distracted by temporal things. They had more important matters on which to focus. Besides, Jesus explained, worry is ineffectual (vv. 25–26). To support His “do not worry” directive, Jesus used examples from nature. God’s sustaining power and provision was the basis for His command. First, He pointed to the ravens—an unclean creature that does not plant its food or store a harvest. Yet they are continually fed. Jesus reasoned that God’s people are much more valuable to Him than these birds. Second, He reminded them of the lilies—a stunning, resourceful flower that thrives and multiplies without human intervention. The lilies do not work or make plans. Yet they radiate a beauty even more spectacular than the wealthiest king’s robes. Finally, He points to the grass—a common and ephemeral plant. God even cares about the grass. If God clothes the grass, Jesus explained, “how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!” (v. 29). When we worry, we cast doubt on God’s care, so Jesus challenged His disciples’ faith. He called them to trust that their Father—a personal and protective dad—knew their needs and would provide (v. 30). >> It is easy to get caught up in common, everyday worries. As you consider your own anxieties, we hope Jesus’ words will encourage your faith in God’s care and provision.
A crossroad is the intersection of two roads. But it can also refer to a time in life where you need to make an important decision. Which way will you go? You can only choose one way. Today’s passage begins with another miracle. Jesus drove out a demon that had rendered a man mute, but Luke recounts this miracle with very few details. Instead, he gives considerable attention to the public discussion that followed as the debate surrounding Jesus’ identity continued to build. People had three different opinions. Some in the crowd were amazed. Another group argued that His power was from Satan. Still others were reserving judgment until they had seen more miracles. Once again, Jesus knew their opinions even though they did not voice them. He addressed them directly, using simple logic to refute the claim of His connection to Satan. If Satan’s goal was destruction and Jesus was restoring health, how could they be aligned? They had completely different aims. Jesus also offered His commissioned Jewish followers—who were also driving out demons—as witnesses to the source of His authority. Then, Jesus made this bold declaration: “If I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you” (v. 20). There were only two possibilities. No middle ground. Either Jesus was performing miracles by Satan’s power, or He was ushering in the kingdom of God. Essentially, He was calling people to a crossroad decision. Jesus finished with another parable in which Satan was the strong man who could initially guard his home, until Jesus—the stronger one— attacked and dismantled his defense. Jesus’ miracles demonstrated—not a dependence on Satan—but a superior power over him. Finally, Jesus gave an ultimatum. “Whoever is not with me is against me” (v. 23). It was time to choose. >> What was your “crossroad moment” with Jesus? Pray for anyone you know who is at that point right now—that they would choose Him.
A true disciple of Jesus won’t simply understand biblical truth; we must put what we are taught into action. One day, a lawyer, an expert in Jewish tradition, posed a question to Jesus: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” His question was meant as a test. Jesus asked the man, who was very familiar with Jewish law, to answer his own question. The scribe responded by quoting part of the Shema (Deuteronomy 6). The Jews daily recited this call to love God fully. He also quoted Leviticus 19:18, a call to love one’s neighbor as oneself. Jesus commended this answer, but the lawyer wanted more. He wanted to justify his actions. He asked who Jesus considered to be a neighbor. The Sirach, a Jewish book of wisdom, told readers not to help sinners, so the lawyer wanted distinction between “neighbors” and “non-neighbors.” In response, Jesus told a story. A man was traveling on the treacherous road from Jericho to Jerusalem. This 17-mile journey was well known for danger. Thieves hid in caves, attacked the man, and left him for dead. A priest and a Levite came down the road. The lawyer would have expected them to be the heroes. But they both passed by on the other side. Perhaps they were afraid of becoming unclean by touching a corpse. Their motive is not mentioned. Then came the Samaritan—a “non-neighbor” in the lawyer’s eyes. Jesus’ description of the Samaritan’s care consists of a long string of action upon action. His was a lavish act of love. Jesus then asked a simple question: Which one was a neighbor? The scribe couldn’t even say, “The Samaritan.” He only answered, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told the man, “Go and do likewise” (v. 37). >> Most of us struggle to put love into action. It is easy with the “neighbors” we like. It is much more difficult with those who challenge us. Ask God to soften your heart so you can love your neighbor today.
A few weeks ago, our church held a commissioning service for some short-term missionaries who were going to Mexico to proclaim the gospel and to serve the Church. Prayer is an important part of the sending process. In Luke 9, Jesus set His sights on Jerusalem, expanding His efforts to reach more people with His good news (v. 51). He sent out an additional seventy-two messengers of the gospel, instructing them to go in pairs and to pray for even more workers to join them (10:1). This call to prayer highlights the fact that it is God who sends missionaries (not us!). Using agricultural imagery, Jesus described the mission field as a plentiful harvest. He warned them that this assignment would not be easy; they would be like lambs among the wolves. Then Jesus gave clear and practical missionary training. They were to travel light and be focused. When they entered a home, they were to tell its inhabitants: “Peace to this house.” If that declaration was received with peace, they should stay, communing, healing, and proclaiming the kingdom of God (vv. 5–7). But if they were rejected, they were to shake the dust of that city from their feet, as a public acknowledgment of the people’s choice to ignore the message of repentance. Even Tyre and Sidon, evil cities, infamous in the Old Testament, would fare better in the judgment than those who rejected their message. This mission was a great success, and the seventy-two returned with joy over the power they saw. Jesus reminded them of their real source of joy: their own salvation and the promise of eternal life with God. Then Jesus, also full of joy and the Holy Spirit, prayed with gratitude to the Father for the work He had done through His messengers. >> Does your church send and support missionaries? Find out the names of those missionaries and commit to support all or some of them in prayer. Your ministry of prayerful support is an important part of kingdom work!
In his book The Knowledge of the Holy, A. W. Tozer wrote, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” We might say the same about our answer to the question: “Who is Jesus?” So far in the book of Luke, we have seen a lot of people questioning the identity of Jesus: the crowds, the Pharisees, and even Satan himself. Today’s passage records an important turning point as Jesus poses the question directly to His disciples. Certainly, these men who had spent day after day with Him would have the correct answer. This intimate exchange happened just following the miraculous feeding of the 5,000 (vv. 10–17),when Jesus was praying in private with His closest followers. First, Jesus asked them who people said he was. The disciples replied with a varied list of ideas: John the Baptist, Elijah, a prophet come back to life. Then Jesus asked them the same question: “Who do you say I am?” Peter—always quick to speak and act—answered immediately: “God’s Messiah.” He recognized Jesus as the promised deliverer sent by God. Some commentators point out that Peter’s response falls short of proclaiming the deity of Christ. Peter would need more time and experience with Jesus to come to that fuller belief. But the understanding Peter already demonstrated opened the door for a deeper discussion of discipleship. Jesus began that instruction immediately, readjusting their expectations. They were looking for a triumphant and conquering savior, but Jesus foretold His suffering, rejection, death, and resurrection. These things “must” happen. The Greek word dei, translated as “must,” implied that this would all happen by God’s design. Jesus was not resigned to “fate.” He was committed to obedience. >> Consider what our culture says about Jesus. Who do they say He is? Then, ask yourself, “Who do I say Jesus is?’ Take some time today to meditate on your answer.
In 1991, the Barna Group asked American adults if they believed that “the Bible is totally accurate in all of the principles it teaches,” and 46 percent of respondents strongly agreed. By 2016 that number dropped to 33 percent. Barna president David Kinnaman said, “With each passing year, the percent of Americans who believe that the Bible is ‘just another book written by men’ increases.” In Luke 8, as Jesus’ ministry and the opposition against Him grew, a clear definition of true discipleship became increasingly necessary. Jesus told the parable of the soils to a large crowd who had gathered from several towns. This teaching was intended for the broader audience, and the farming imagery would have been familiar. In the parable, some seed fell on the road, where it was trampled and eaten by birds. Other seed fell on rocky ground, which could be hard to spot in Palestine since a thin topsoil often covered a limestone rock base. These seeds sprouted and then immediately dried up for lack of roots and water. A third set of seed fell among the weeds, which were plentiful and large in Palestine and easily choked out the seedlings. The rest of the seeds fell on good soil and yielded a hundredfold, a very fruitful crop in a land that expected only tenfold. When the disciples questioned the parable, Jesus explained that the seed was the Word of God, and people responded in various ways to the message—depending on the condition of their heart. Verses 19–21 reinforce the importance of responding to God’s Word. When Jesus was told that His mother and siblings were trying to see Him, He responded with a proverbial statement that He was closest to those who received the Word of God and lived by it. >> If you did a soil test on your heart, which kind would it be? Bearing fruit does not happen in a moment but over time. We can cultivate good soil by spending time daily in God’s Word.
How would you respond if you received a notice from your bank that your mortgage had been forgiven, the loan marked paid? You would likely experience a wave of gratitude, followed by a sense of peace because a significant load had been lifted. In today’s passage, Jesus was invited to a dinner party by a Pharisee named Simon. Simon’s motive is not stated, but it was likely not entirely charitable. Because Jesus was a public figure, the door of the house would have remained open, so interested people could enter and observe the conversation from the fringes. The crowd was undoubtedly large. Suddenly, a known sinful woman—possibly a prostitute— arrived, but she didn’t stay on the sidelines. Instead, she boldly approached Jesus—washing His feet with her tears, wiping His feet with her hair, and kissing them. Then she poured costly perfume over His feet. She didn’t say anything, nor did she need to. Her humility, remorse, and devotion to Jesus were obvious. Simon, the host, was shocked. He questioned Jesus’ association with sinners and His very identity. But he didn’t say this aloud nor did he need to. Jesus knew his thoughts. In response, Jesus told a parable. Two men owed a lender some money— one man five hundred denarii and the other fifty. If the lender canceled both debts, Jesus asked Simon, who would love him more? Simon rightly responded, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven” (v. 43). Jesus compared Simon and the woman. Simon had given Jesus a minimal welcome, but the woman had lavished Him with love—a love that showed the magnitude of the forgiveness she had received. When the other guests questioned Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, He turned to the woman and said, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (v. 50). >> Jesus offers forgiveness and peace to those who come in faith. Of what have you been forgiven? What act of love can flow from your grateful heart?
People were talking! Jesus was teaching with authority, healing the sick and casting out demons. People were traveling greater distances to hear His message and experience His power. In Luke 6, we read the Sermon on the Plain, a parallel message to Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus begins with a series of blessings and woes. He promised God’s favor on those who identified with Him. The descriptions of the righteous do not indicate four different groups. Rather, they combine to provide one complete picture of people who are blessed by God. The poor are blessed because their eternal security is not in this world, but in the kingdom of God (v. 20). The hungry are promised a future far more satisfying than any current longing (v. 21). The destitute were sorrowful because of the strains of their earthly existence, but they are promised laughter (v. 21). The faithful are warned that they will face hatred, exclusion, insults, and rejection. Their suffering will not just be physical but also spiritual. The four woes are the opposite side of these blessings. They also represent one type of person, someone who finds satisfaction in the things of this world, rather than in God. Jesus warned the rich that their comfort in earthly wealth will be fleeting (v. 24). Those who gorge themselves on food will be left wanting on Judgment Day (v. 25). Those who live frivolously in this life will ultimately weep and mourn (v. 25). Those who crave the praise of men will be condemned (v. 26). Having encouraged the faithful and warned the self-centered, Jesus explained how to love. We are to love even those who intentionally harm us. Our love should reflect the love of Jesus. >> There are some tough lessons in today’s passage. Choose one or two and write them down or underline them in your Bible. How can you walk them out in your life, prioritizing God over earthly wants?
Opposition to the gospel can come in many forms—from the obviously evil to the self-righteously proud. While the main antagonists to Jesus’ early ministry were Satan and his demons, Luke records another force of opposition: the religious leaders. When Jesus called Levi the tax collector to be a disciple, the Jewish religious leaders were upset. Why was Jesus spending time with sinners? But their critique didn’t stop there. They criticized His disciples for not fasting. In Judaism, many Pharisees fasted twice a week (Luke 18:12). They considered the failure of Jesus’ disciples to fast as a dishonor to God. Jesus responded to their criticism with a metaphor. He illustrated God’s relationship with His people, using the image of a bridegroom and his wedding guests. His disciples did not fast because He, as the bridegroom, was present. In saying this—for the first time in Luke Jesus was predicting his own death. When the bridegroom would be taken, Jesus said, then His disciples would fast. To reinforce His point, Jesus told a parable, using two additional pictures (a new patch sewn on an old garment and new wine poured into old wine skins). Jesus' work was transformative. He didn’t come to patch up the old form of Judaism; He came to bring new life entirely. In another confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees, they disagreed about the Sabbath. Jewish tradition stipulated strict Sabbath rules. By picking grain, rubbing it, and eating it, Jesus’ disciples were breaking those rules. Jesus again responded with Scripture, citing the account of David (vv. 4–5; 1 Samuel 21 and 22). If the Pharisees condemned Jesus, they were criticizing David as well. Ultimately, Jesus explained, this was an issue of authority. Jesus alone had the right to regulate the Sabbath since He was Lord over it. >> Check your own heart for self-righteousness. It’s easy to add to God’s law with additional requirements of our own. How do we judge others based on these “extra” rules?
Jesus gathered around Him unlikely disciples from various vocations: fishermen, tax collectors, and even political zealots. The first of these, recorded by Luke, was Simon Peter. We know that Jesus already knew Peter since He had healed his mother- in-law not long before. One day, Jesus stood on the shore of the Lake of Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee). Because His teaching had become so popular, a crowd of people had gathered. Jesus singled out Peter and his companions for a particular encounter. Climbing into Peter’s boat to avoid the crowd, He asked Peter to push out into the lake. Peter was probably exhausted from a long night of fishing, but he did what Jesus said. He only resisted when Jesus, the carpenter’s son, told him to lower his nets. The seasoned fisherman explained, “We’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything” (v. 5). At midday, it seemed foolish to try again. Nevertheless, Peter did what Jesus said. He probably was thinking of the miracles he had already witnessed— even one in his own family. Miraculously, the nets overflowed with fish, so much so that the boat began to sink and Peter had to call for help. Peter recognized this was a miracle and Jesus was an agent of God. His immediate response was not gratitude, but repentance. Confronted by the deity of Jesus, Peter recognized his sin. In response, Jesus called Peter into discipleship—for his own sake and the sake of others. We are told that Peter immediately left everything to follow Jesus. Jesus’ ministry of teaching and healing continued. Luke records how Jesus healed a leper and a paralyzed man. The disciples who answered His call and followed Jesus would continue to be amazed and challenged. Their time with Jesus would change their lives. >> Reflect on your own call to follow Jesus. Share that moment with someone else today. And, if you haven’t yet answered Jesus’ call, repent, and turn to Him. He is waiting!
In today’s social media obsessed world, “viral” videos attract millions of viewers in a short time. If smart phones were available during Jesus’ time, videos of His miracles would have certainly gone viral. After the temptation in the wilderness (Luke 4:1–13), Jesus began his public ministry in Galilee. He traveled to Capernaum, which became a ministry base. The city, on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, was a major Jewish trade center of fishing, as well as agriculture. One Sabbath day, Jesus went to the synagogue and taught the people with authority until a demon- possessed man disrupted the gathering. Luke mentions demons over 20 times as a major opponent to Jesus’ ministry. In this instance, Jesus’ presence made the demons nervous. Screaming loudly, they challenged Him, while also confessing His identity—at least in part. They called Him “the Holy One of God” (v. 34). Jesus rebuked the demons, and immediately they left the man. The next healing was less dramatic, but more personal. At Simon Peter’s home, his mother-in- law was sick with fever. There Jesus showed His authority not only over demons but also over disease. He rebuked the fever, and it left the woman immediately. She rose and served them, showing her restoration and gratitude (v. 39). Luke tells us that Jesus healed even more sickness and cast out more demons. The authority of Jesus was unparalleled and could not be stopped. At daybreak, Jesus withdrew to pray privately, but still the people followed Him. His miraculous works were drawing increasing attention. When they begged Him to stay in Capernaum, He restated His mission, “to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God” to the people of other towns. >> Reading about the miracles performed by Jesus is a much-needed reminder that no problem you face is too big for Him. Bring your worries to Jesus today.
While temptation comes in many forms, it always has one thing in common. Temptation appeals to our fallen desires—for comfort, pleasure, power, love. And Satan (the “roaring lion” mentioned in 1 Peter 5:8) knows exactly when to pounce. Before Jesus began His public ministry, the Holy Spirit led Him into the desert for a time of solitude, fasting, and prayer. When Satan appeared, Jesus was physically weak and hungry, but He was spiritually full. With his first temptation, Satan questioned Jesus’ identity as God’s Son and the Father’s willingness to provide basic care. Satan appealed to Jesus’ hunger and challenged Him to take matters into His own hands. Jesus responded by reciting Deuteronomy 8:3, which prioritizes obedience to God over physical needs. With the second temptation, the devil tried a different tactic—an appeal to power, an invitation to worship him, and a direct assault on the first commandment. Ironically, in offering to grant Jesus the authority over all kingdoms on earth, Satan was promising something he couldn’t deliver. Jesus replied with Deuteronomy 6:13, declaring the Lord is the only one worthy of worship. For the third temptation, Satan took Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem—perhaps in a vision. The “highest point of the temple” was the Royal Porch, towering over the Kidron Valley with a drop of 450 feet (v. 9). Satan challenged Jesus to prove His identity by casting Himself down and calling angels to save Him. Satan even quoted the Old Testament himself (Ps. 91:11–12) to enhance his argument. Jesus recognized this as a presumptuous test of God that showed an insolent lack of faith. He recited Deuteronomy 6:16, and Satan left Him alone. But Luke finished the account on an ominous note. Satan wasn’t done. He was just waiting until a more opportune time. >> How has Satan used similar tactics to tempt you? What do you learn from Jesus’ response that will help you face the fiery darts?
Too often when we wrong another person, we offer an easy “I’m sorry” with no intent to change. True repentance, however, involves a complete 180-degree change in thought, attitude, and action. Truly repentant people turn their backs on sin and turn toward God’s forgiveness. In chapter 3, we learn most of John the Baptist’s story, with many details unique to the book of Luke. He began by placing John in the greater historical context. A precise recording of these details mattered to Luke, the researcher. He cited Isaiah’s prophesy to bolster his claim that Jesus was the long-awaited Messiah (vv. 4–6). In the style of an Old Testament prophet, John preached a call to repentance for the forgiveness of sin. But this repentance was not an abstract concept or an easy “I’m sorry.” The repentance John preached resulted in a deeply altered life. As people came to him to be baptized, John hammered home the argument that—in the face of impending judgment—the people could not rely on their ancestry (vv. 8–9). This point seemed to sting, for the people began asking, “What should we do?” (v. 10). To the crowd, the tax collectors, and the soldiers, John’s response was the same: Repent. Change your ways. Be generous. Be fair. Be content. As the people experienced John’s powerful ministry, many wondered if John was the Messiah (v. 15). But John made a clear distinction between his baptism and the baptism that Jesus would bring. This was the preparatory ministry for which John was born. John’s story ends with two summarized accounts: (1) his imprisonment by Herod and (2) Jesus’ baptism and endorsement by the Father. The most public portion of John’s ministry had concluded, and Jesus would now take center stage. >> Repentance is serious, life- changing business. Reflect on your own experience of repentance and forgiveness. When did you have a 180-degree life change? Of what do you need to repent even right now?
Our children both came to our family through arduous adoption journeys. The Sunday when we finally stood before our church family and dedicated them to the Lord was a most joyous day! Imagine how Joseph and Mary felt when they took baby Jesus to the Temple to dedicate him into the Lord’s service. In the Temple courts, they met Simeon who was “righteous and devout” (v. 25). Under the leading of the Holy Spirit, Simeon had been actively watching for the Christ. He believed that God would keep His promise to send a Savior, and it seems he recognized Jesus immediately. Holding the baby in his arms, Simeon delivered his own hymn of praise—the fourth psalm in the book of Luke. Simeon’s song is called the Nunc Dimittus (Latin for “now let depart”), and in his first stanza, he gave glory to the Sovereign Lord for fulfilling His promise. Having seen God’s salvation, Simeon declared his readiness to leave this life in peace. Simeon called Jesus a “light” for all nations—a theme used repeatedly in Luke. Simeon also called Jesus “a glory” to Israel and a “revelation to the Gentiles” (v. 32). His Salvation would come through God’s chosen people and would extend to all nations. But Simeon’s song also included somber notes. While Mary and Joseph marveled at the message, Simeon turned directly to Mary and prophesied the opposition Jesus would face that would cause personal pain for His mother. Also present in the Temple was an elderly prophetess, Anna (v. 36). Widowed when she was young, she had dedicated her life to the ministry of intercession. Luke does not record her exact words, but we know she thanked God for Jesus and testified about Him to all who would listen. >> Simeon and Anna were faithful servants who followed God into their old age. Thank God for any older disciples who have provided a model for you to follow.
Traditionally, when a new royal is born in England, the House Secretary and the Archbishop of Canterbury attend the birth. A framed birth announcement is placed on a golden easel outside of Buckingham Palace, and the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery sound a 41-gun salute. Around the globe, noble births have been celebrated with great ceremony. The birth of Jesus in Luke 2 presents a fascinating contradiction between the lowly and the lavish. Joseph and the pregnant Mary traveled to Bethlehem to register as taxpayers. Mary probably did not have to make the trip, but her desire to be with Joseph when she gave birth may have compelled her to go. When they arrived, the town was crowded because of the census, and they could not find an inn with a vacancy. They took shelter, instead, in a stable or cave. The birth account is brief and direct: “She gave birth to her firstborn, a son” (v. 7). The modest nature of Jesus’ arrival was highlighted when Mary placed the baby in a manger. But if the circumstances of Jesus’ birth were lowly, the announcement was anything but. This is the third angelic visit included in the book of Luke. This time the immediate audience was a band of shepherds, but the good news was intended for all people. The angel used distinct titles to describe this baby. “Savior” reflected Jesus’ mission to deliver His people. “Messiah” meant anointed or promised one. And “Lord” revealed His authority over sin, evil, and death (v. 11). Suddenly, an entire choir of angels filled the sky, glorifying God. When the angels left, the shepherds hurried to find the babe, and—upon meeting Him—they too could not contain their joy. They spread the news, and everyone who heard their testimony was amazed. >> Christmas records the First Advent or coming of Jesus. As we look to the Second Advent, the coming again of our Savior, may our response be renewed joy and a desire to share it with others.
We are never too old to learn more about God, and never so mature in faith that we cannot grow. In Luke 1, we see how Zechariah, an older priest, emerged from nine months of silence even more deeply devoted to God. When Zechariah’s wife Elizabeth gave birth, the entire community rejoiced, recognizing this child as a miraculous gift of God. On the eighth day, the family brought him to be circumcised. Tradition called for a family name to be given, maybe “Zechariah,” based on the miraculous events of the birth. However, Elizabeth proclaimed him “John” (v. 60). Those gathered expressed their collective shock. No one in the family was named John. But this name was an act of obedience to which both Elizabeth and Zechariah were committed. They sought verification from Zechariah, using a form of sign language. Apparently, in addition to being mute, Zechariah was also deaf. He further surprised the people with his written message: “His name is John” (v. 63). Then came miracle part two: Zechariah’s tongue was set loose, and he praised God. Word of John’s extraordinary birth spread quickly throughout the entire region (v. 65). Even as a newborn babe, John was drawing people’s attention toward the new work of God. Zechariah’s hymn (Benedictus) is the second psalm recorded in the book of Luke (vv. 68–79). It flowed from an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. While Mary’s song focused on God’s work in the past, Zechariah’s looked ahead at the ministry of both John and Jesus and what God’s salvation would accomplish. The God of Israel had remembered His people. He would rescue them from their enemies and redeem them from their sin. He finished his song with the promise of peace. >> Luke records the beautiful words of praise from both Mary and Zechariah. Today, offer your own expression of praise for the salvation you have been given through the work of God’s Son.
A friend of mine recently signed up for an overseas mission trip. During the training, she was excited to participate with her team. But as the departure date approached, her anxiety grew until she wondered if she could even make the trip. It’s one thing to accept God’s call on your life. It can be another thing to walk it out. Mary wasted no time in following the angel’s lead. She put feet to her faith and traveled for three days (80–100 miles) to visit her cousin Elizabeth and confirm Gabriel’s news. The meeting of these two mothers was a monumental event. Both women were experiencing miraculous pregnancies with eternal implications. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s first “hello” and the baby John kicked in her womb, he was already pointing the way to Jesus. Elizabeth’s loud exclamation was not a result of her own emotion alone. It was directed by the Holy Spirit and full of humility. Her posture toward Mary foreshadowed her son’s ministry as he pointed to Jesus. Elizabeth overflowed with joy and awe. She graciously blessed Mary and expressed her honor at being a part of God’s new work. Mary then voiced her psalm of thanksgiving. Verses 46 to 55, called the Magnificat, are rich in theology. The first half contains Mary’s praise for God’s blessing to her. Like Elizabeth, she expressed humility and honor at being chosen by God. Then Mary pronounced a general praise to God for His actions and His character, demonstrated to all people throughout time. She worshiped God for His eternal mercy and sovereign power—a power that defied human hierarchies. He had dethroned proud earthly rulers, elevated the humble, and provided for His people. >> In both Elizabeth and Mary, we find examples of how to respond to God’s call on our life—even when that call might come with hardship and cause us fear. May we, too, put feet to our faith and humbly praise the God who continues to call.
Sometimes God calls unlikely people to do an extraordinary work. In today’s passage, Luke records a second birth announcement by the angel Gabriel, But this announcement has distinct differences from the previous one. Again, Luke was the only Gospel writer to nclude this account. In contrast to John’s birth announcement, this angelic message was delivered in a humble Galilean village to a young woman with no credentials. Luke describes Mary as a virgin, “pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David” (v. 27). The angel Gabriel says that Mary has “found favor with God” (v. 30). Mary was chosen not because of her own merit but through an outpouring of God’s grace. Like Zechariah, Mary reacted with fear. But Gabriel responded with assurance and immediately delivered incredible news. Mary would give birth to a son, and—although this announcement echoes other birth announcements in the Old Testament (Genesis 16; Judges 13)—this baby’s importance would be unparalleled. Jesus’ greatness was superior to John’s. This child would be the “Son of the Most High” (v. 32) and would sit on the throne of David. This description underscores the fact that Israel would remain at the center of the redemption story. Mary’s “how will this be” question was not met with consequences like Zechariah’s question. Gabriel responded with further reassurance of God’s sovereignty. Gabriel even gave Mary additional evidence in the form of Elizabeth’s pregnancy and finished with a grand statement of God’s transcendent power. “For no word from God will ever fail” (v. 37). Despite the trials that would undoubtedly come with this assignment, Mary answered with complete willingness to obey and allow God to work as He will. When God calls us, He also equips us. He provides His presence and His power. May we respond with the same willing obedience we see in Mary, despite our weaknesses and the obstacles that we will inevitably face.
The Gospel of Luke was crafted with great care. The author begins by explaining how and why he wrote. Luke had done careful research. Almost 30 percent of his content is unique, not presented in the other gospel accounts. You’ll also find that Luke documented Jesus’ life in an “orderly” way—not always chronologically, sometimes topically or logically. Luke addresses a man named Theophilus, likely a Gentile convert, to strengthen Theophilus’s faith, to assure him that “the things you have been taught” were true (v. 4). Luke begins his record with a priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth. They were “righteous in the sight of God” (v. 6). Elizabeth was barren, and they were both old. But as with previous pregnancies of formerly- barren women (Sarai, Genesis 15; Rebekah, Genesis 25; Rachel, Genesis 30; Hannah, 1 Samuel 1–2), this conception was an act of God. The angel Gabriel came to Zechariah at a pivotal moment in his priestly career. This was likely the only time that Zechariah would have been chosen by lot to place the incense on the altar. This was a holy time of offering, a moment to recognize the human need for cleansing. When the angel appeared, Zechariah understandably responded with terror. The angel made a clear and joyful announcement of the coming miraculous birth. This child had been chosen by God for a special work. He would turn people’s attention back to God and prepare them for salvation. When Zechariah questioned the announcement, the angel rendered him mute. But when Elizabeth did become pregnant, she gave glory to God. “The Lord has done this for me” (v. 25). While her baby’s ministry would be very public, the blessing of his birth was also personal. >> May God use this study to strengthen your faith. As we reflect on Luke’s Gospel, we will be assured once again that the “things [we] have been taught” are true!
Have you ever been a part of a large gathering of believers singing praise to God? Every February in Chicago, the Moody Bible Institute hosts a free Bible conference called Founder’s Week. When God’s Word is preached and hundreds of voices sing in unison, I think that I am experiencing a very small glimpse of what heaven must be like. But even this experience pales in comparison to what John describes in Revelation 5. Jesus the slain Lamb appears, the only One worthy to open the scroll. A small chorus of the four living creatures and twenty-four elders began to sing His praise (vv. 8–10). John then saw “ten thousand times ten thousand” angels join this miraculous chorus. They encircled the throne of Jesus, as well as the living creatures and elders. This spectacular sight added to the worthiness of why Jesus alone could open the scroll and its significance (vv. 11–12). Finally, John tells us it will be our turn! You and I will one day join this astounding chorus, “every creature in heaven and on earth” (v. 13). And this is just the beginning. Together, we will worship Him through all eternity. Even though this is the end of our study of “one another” in the Bible, Revelation 5 reminds us that we will be worshiping as one forever and ever! Being united in worship is a powerful experience, and we must never forget that Jesus is the only One who can ultimately bring us together. Worshiping our King together is a gift, and one that we will not only enjoy in eternity but can also experience today. >> In today’s modern worship services, with dimmed lights and amplified music, it can be easy to fall into the role of observer. But God takes pleasure in our worship, and each of us are called to participate. This coming Sunday make an effort to sing along with fellow believers, worshiping our King!
What exactly do we mean by “fellowship”? Maybe your church thinks of “fellowship” as a time of gathering around coffee and donuts before or after Sunday worship. Or, you might fellowship with other believers at a Bible study in someone’s home. But fellowship for the early church meant even more. One scholar explains, “Christian fellowship is not the sentimental and superficial attachment of a random collection of individuals, but the profoundly mutual relationship of those who remain in Christ, and therefore belong to each other.” In other words, fellowship is not an easy task! It requires time and commitment. And it cannot truly happen outside of Christ. Out of all the people in the Bible, the apostle John would have known what true fellowship was like. He was part of Jesus’ inner circle and experienced fellowship with Jesus and the other disciples that changed his life forever. In today’s passage, he reminds his readers that it is impossible to have fellowship with Jesus and continually live in sin. When we remain in our sinful living, we are not living out the truth of the gospel (v. 6). Instead, John says that when we are unashamedly Christian and live our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel, not only do we have fellowship with Jesus but also have fellowship with one another (v. 7). John knows that every person is on a journey to “walking in the light,” so he assures his readers that Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross purifies us from every sin that trips us up (v. 7). This removes the pressure and anxiety of having to be perfect, and instead helps us rely on the love and grace from God and on one another. >> Are there sins in your life that are keeping you away from fellowship with one another? If so, confess those sins to God, so you can start on a path to reconnecting with your brother and sister in Christ, as well as with God.
Do you remember the day you met your spouse or best friend? Who spoke to whom first? What impression did that person make on you? You probably never expected that first encounter to develop into something lasting. A friendly greeting can be the start of an enduring relationship. Things weren’t always so friendly in the early church. It was experiencing tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers. Today’s churches have similar conflicts based on political, social, and theological issues. Jesus and the New Testament writers emphasized the importance of loving one another and accepting one another, even those who come from different backgrounds. At the close of New Testament letters to the early church, you’ll often see this reminder: “Greet one another with a holy kiss” (Rom. 16:16). The instruction is repeated frequently (see 1 Cor. 16:20; 2 Cor. 13:12; 1 Thess. 5:26; 1 Peter 5:14) and typically followed by a plea not to let divisions exist within God’s family. “Watch out for those who cause divisions” (v. 17). In that culture, greeting one another with a kiss on the cheek was a symbol of acceptance and friendship, reinforcing the idea that everyone was included and important. The greeting was not only a cultural norm but also a way of expressing genuine Christian love. Demonstrating love toward one another enables believers to live in peace for all who are in Christ. While in today’s culture we might not greet one another with an actual kiss, we can show acceptance and love toward one another by being purposeful and loving in our greetings. With a friendly smile, direct eye contact, and kind words, we can make one another feel loved and welcomed, regardless of our differences. >. We may not exchange a kiss as a greeting today, but we do have ways that make others feel welcomed. Consider the ways your church welcomes visitors. What can you, personally, do to extend the love of Christ to others?
Augustine said, “It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” Perhaps he penned this after reading 1 Peter 5. In the final portion of his letter, Peter reaches out to the elders and then to those under their care. Our passage today picks up in verse five of chapter five as he exhorts believers, most likely the majority who were younger, to submit themselves to their elders. Specifically, Peter calls younger believers to clothe themselves with humility toward one another. Perhaps as Peter is writing these words, he is reminded of Jesus’ example at the Last Supper (John 13). Typically, it was the servant who was supposed to wash the feet of the guests, but instead, Jesus clothed Himself in this manner, tying a towel around His waist. Peter also refers to Proverbs 3:34 as a reminder to his primarily Jewish readers that “God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble” (v. 5). Just as pride broke the relationship between God and Satan, as well as between God and humanity, it can break relationships between people. He reiterates in verse 6 for believers to humble themselves. Peter realized that humility is a sacrifice and may cause anxiety and stress. The act of thinking about and giving oneself to one another in humility can be costly. But God’s hand is mighty. He is more than able to lift us up at just the right time (v. 6). All our anxieties and concerns can be put on Him because He cares. So, as we care and serve others in humility, we need to be reminded that God cares and loves us more than we will ever know. >> It is sometimes difficult to think about how to be humble, but we all know what it means to act in pride, putting ourselves and our own desires above others. Today, make it your prayer to act in humility and not in pride, following the example of Jesus.
My wife and I love to host college students at our home. At least once a month, we try to invite students over for a meal, games, or movie night. Really, my wife deserves most of the credit. She will spend all week in preparation for the few short hours we get to spend with the students because she wants them to feel welcome and loved. She has the gift of hospitality. In today’s passage, Peter reminds us that even if you don’t have the spiritual gift of hospitality, you still need to strive to be hospitable toward one another. The mentioning of judgment in verses 5–6 reminded Peter that the end is near (v. 7). Believers are to love one another deeply, or earnestly (v. 8). In other words, with every fiber of their being, like an athlete who uses every muscle to win, we are to love one another. Peter’s mind immediately then goes to hospitality. In this verse, hospitality literally means “lover of strangers” (v. 9). This love of strangers was extremely important in the first century because travelers such as letter carriers, pastors, teachers, and missionaries relied heavily on the hospitality of strangers. When people came to faith, families split, or believers needed somewhere safe to stay, they relied on one another. Hotels were few, and followers of Jesus were often scrutinized and persecuted for their faith. Peter says to use either serving gifts (v. 10) or speaking gifts (v. 11) to further love one another. Regardless of the gift or the action, the result ought to be the same: that God may be praised and glorified (v. 11). >> Consider how you can be hospitable to someone today, this week, or maybe this month. Who could you welcome into your home? Who could you gift with comfort or help? Pray for the right person and the right opportunity.
Billy Graham once admitted, “The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or ‘Help me.’” The late evangelist was echoing the sentiments that James talks about in chapter 5. Everybody suffers and everyone needs prayer. But James also builds to the truth that the effective prayer of a righteous person has tremendous power. He begins by stating that if anyone is in trouble, which can mean suffering in difficult circumstances, let him pray (v. 13). He then says that if anyone is happy, let him sing songs, which is a way of singing one’s prayers (v. 13). Next, he casts the net to anyone who is sick (v. 14). Sick can mean physically sick, but it can also mean spiritually, ethically, emotionally, or morally weak. Whatever the ailment, they were to be prayed over and forgiven (vv. 14–15). James adds that when it comes to forgiveness, there may be times when we need to confess our sins to one another. Not merely to gossip, but so healing and long- term accountability and healing can take place (v. 16). James concludes this paragraph with his Big Idea, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (v. 16). When men and women are walking closely with God, their prayer is intensified. James uses the example of Elijah who prayed for rain to restore Israel from idolatry (1 Kings 18:37). When God’s Word is on your heart and mind, it will also be in your prayers, so make sure your prayers are soaked in Scripture. Look for opportunities to pray for and over people. It might just be the remedy they need. >> Your greatest superpower is prayer. So, make sure you are using it daily. It has the power to help people in their darkest times and keep them going when they are down.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Today in the Word! We are thankful for you. Most of us look forward to a special dinner with our loved ones, but it can sometimes be stressful. Tensions flare when a sensitive subject is discussed. Instead of thankful and positive words, the holiday gathering can dissolve into disagreement. James, the half-brother of Jesus, would have been present at the dinner table with his half-brother, Jesus. Here James writes to the church (“brothers and sisters”), challenging them to consider their words toward one another (v. 11). The word for “slander” suggests complaining to others to destroy a person’s reputation. James had been guilty of doing that toward Jesus. We don’t know if it was James specifically mocking Jesus in John 7:1–4, but he was present and agreed with what was being said. Years after his conversion to Christ, James became a new man with a new plan. Instead of speaking evil against Jesus, he became Jesus’ biggest advocate. James also taught a great deal about the power of words (see James 3:3–12), and in chapter 4 he focuses on the way we use words against those within the family of Christ. In chapter 3, verse 10, he wrote, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been in made in God’s likeness....My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” In chapter 4, James says that when we speak “against a brother or sister” we speak against the law (v. 11). Which law? Here he refers to Christ’s command to love one another (Matt. 22:39). We are not to speak to one another or about one another in anger, but to submit ourselves first to God and to the law of love. >> Today as you celebrate Thanksgiving, consider the power of your words. Make it your goal to use your words to say something positive and life-giving to each person in your family.
Many people claim to have a relationship with Jesus but don’t think going to church is necessary. Some think, “Can’t I just listen to Christian radio, sermon podcasts, or watch online instead of attending worship services weekly?” This is selfish and prideful thinking. Meeting together regularly is never about us, it’s about the community of believers. In today’s passage, the author of Hebrews inspires and strengthens the readers for their regular sacrifice of gathering in worship. The author begins by grounding the importance of meeting together in what Jesus has already done for them. The Savior made a way through His death for sinners to be in God the Father’s presence. Jesus’ death made it possible for us to enter God’s throne room, too (vv. 19–21). Sinners can draw near to God because their sin has been washed away by the power of Christ’s atonement (v. 22). As a result, the author urges believers to encourage one another toward love and good deeds. The author inspires them to continually meet together and make this part of their regular practice and routine (vv. 24–25). However, the author knows it is easy to fall out of a routine. Therefore, he advises the readers to encourage one another to attend. When believers meet regularly, they are not only sharpened by one another, but the hope they profess is not forgotten (v. 23). It can be easy to “give up” on church. It takes a lot of sacrifice, courage, and humility to be an active part of a group of people who are different from you. Rest assured, you will never find a perfect church, but when you find a healthy church and you are committed to serving, you will never find anything more rewarding. >> Make a commitment to yourself and God to attend church every Sunday this holiday season. If that is not a stretch for you, make a fresh commitment to serve in a way you do not normally do.
As you spend time with your family this Thanksgiving, perhaps you will play a board game. But have you ever played a new game without reading all the instructions? I know I have, and it never turns out well for anyone. We are all left frustrated and confused, irritated and on edge. When someone does read the instructions and explains them to the group, everything is a lot more peaceful and quieter. Paul wraps up his first letter to the Thessalonians by giving some final instructions, and it is important that we read ALL of them. Here, like in several other letters to churches, he emphasizes the group over the individual. The first component is to simply “acknowledge” those who serve (v. 12). Sadly, many church workers are easily overlooked. While everyone knows the preacher or the musicians, there are many others in the church whose work goes unrecognized. Paul wants his readers to “hold them in the highest regard” because of the work they do on behalf of the church (v. 13). They are not seeking praise, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t show them appreciation. Paul urges the body to come to one another’s aid when people become idle or tired (v. 14). Believers shouldn’t condemn one another with a critical spirit and harsh tongue, nor should they merely give half-thought suggestions. Rather, Paul implores believers to give serious advice with a comforting tone and patient heart (v. 14). His final piece of corporate advice to the body is for them not to seek revenge. Instead, believers are to “always strive to do what is good for each other” (v. 15). Churches will find peace when people are appreciated, selfishness is abandoned, and servanthood is adopted. >> After reading all of Paul’s final instructions to the Thessalonians, which one hits home with you? How can you put into practice Paul’s teaching and training?
I am becoming completely dependent on the Maps app on my phone. If my GPS failed to alert me when to turn, I would be constantly lost. Driving in any city can be a headache but knowing that my route has been mapped out makes it a little easier and less stressful. At first the Thessalonians thought they might have missed Christ’s return. Paul acted as their GPS and wrote them a letter informing them they hadn’t missed a thing. So, every day they woke up wondering if today would be THE day. They also questioned what would happen to those who died before Christ’s return. Would they see them again, or would they be gone forever? Again, Paul informs them that those who have died (that is, fallen asleep) will return with Jesus at His returning (v. 14). Many refer to this as the Rapture (v. 16). He says this event will be initiated by a loud command and a trumpet call of God, probably something like his experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3–7). Then, after an earth-shattering noise, those who are still alive will be “caught up” in the air with those who have already died. The verb caught up means to be carried off by an undeniable force. The word translated into Latin is rapturus, from which we get our English word Rapture. You can imagine that as the Thessalonians read this for the first time, they we overwhelmed with excitement. They could hardly contain themselves at the idea of being reunited with one another and, more importantly, with Christ. Make sure you are anticipating the things that really matter and encourage others to anticipate Christ’s return together (v. 18). >> Do you know someone who needs to be comforted with the good news of the Second Coming of Christ? Encourage them! Remind them of the promise of spending eternity with Jesus and with those who have gone before us.
Have you ever found yourself humming, whistling, or even singing a worship song or hymn you recently heard in church? Music is powerful because it is memorable. It can also be a powerful teaching tool to share God’s truth. In today’s divided world, which continues to get more and more fiery, believers can use Bible-inspired music to share the peace and hope we have in Christ. This is not a new idea. In writing to the church at Colossae, Paul urged the believers to pass on God’s peace and to admonish one another through the music and the arts. The word “admonish” is difficult to translate directly from the original language, but most scholars translate it as counsel or instruct. Beginning in verse fifteen, Paul urges this body of believers to be characterized by peacefulness and thankfulness. These characteristics were to rule in their hearts and be present on their lips. As a result of Christ taking up a permanent residence in their lives, believers were able to “teach and admonish” one another (v. 16). Paul makes it clear that the teaching and counseling of the church should not rest solely on the pastor’s shoulders. Every member has the responsibility to instruct and inform one another, based of course on godly wisdom. One of the main ways Paul suggests that we teach and admonish one another is through sharing music or poetry. We are to do so out of a heart of gratitude, not out of an ulterior or selfish motive. Whatever we do, especially when it comes to teaching and instructing our fellow believers, we do so humbly and in the name of Jesus (v. 17). >> As you attend your local church this Sunday, take a moment to express your appreciation to the musicians or worship leaders. We are so thankful for those who use their musical gifts to bless and encourage us. Then, consider sharing one of your favorite psalms, hymn, or Christian songs on social media.
What did you put on this morning? Since it is a Saturday, perhaps you were able to wear your comfortable jeans and a sweatshirt. In today’s reading, the apostle Paul continues the idea of “putting on” or “clothing” oneself with attributes that help believers live in unity with one another (v. 12). Paul reminds believers that we are God’s special people, set apart and loved by God. How we choose to live and interact with one another should spring from our identity in Jesus Christ. Paul transitions in the next verse to an area that many Christians struggle with and that is less frequently addressed: forgiveness. Paul encourages believers to forgive one another for any grievance. Many times, though, believers hold unforgiveness in their lives because they have not properly identified the grievances they have against one another. The word Paul uses for grievance can also be thought of as a complaint against someone, a quarrel, or our tendency to place blame. It may be easier for us to identify the larger sins that require forgiveness (for example, drunkenness, slander, etc.), but we have all been guilty of complaints and grievances. We excuse it as “giving much needed advice.” Often this advice is actually a criticism or quarrel that has yet to surface. However, when we can properly identify our objections toward one another, we are then able to forgive as the Lord forgave us (v. 13). Paul saves the best for last and shares the “not so secret” secret that binds the perfect unity of one another: love. Out of all the virtues you can “put on,” love is the most important (v. 14). The love of Christ ties everything and everyone together. >> Have you been hanging on to any grievances or complaints toward= another believer? Paul’s words urge us to forgive them, either in our heart or with our words so we can live in unity with one another.
My mother was a professional photographer who specialized in family photos. Often, the family would coordinate their outfits. Dressing similarly was a way to signal that they belonged together as one unit. Even though there were differences amongst them (age, interests, etc.) they shared a common bond: they were family. In Colossians chapter three, Paul explains how believers ought to live as a family. Based on the Resurrection, the priority for any Christian should be to live for Christ (vv. 1–4). As a result, Paul proclaims that believers put to death their sinful nature and put on the new self that comes from Christ so they can live in unity with one another. He describes this new Christian life within the context of living as a family. He begins by defining a list of actions we should “put to death” (v. 5). The verb used for to “put to death” is very strong and suggests that believers are to not simply set aside these actions, but exterminate and destroy sin altogether. The first four sins on Paul’s death list deal with sexual sins displaying their destructive significance (v. 5). The next long list of sins Paul identifies concerns a believer’s speech (vv. 8 9). Then Paul transitions by admonishing Christians to “put on the new self,” which is in the image of God (v. 10). The “new self” is the one we have always been wanting to put on but have been distracted. The enemy’s lies have taken their place time after time. But when we are finally able to confess to one another our sin, we have the power and energy to discard it once and for all. We are part of a new family with a new future because we bear a new image, that of our Creator (v. 11). >> What sins do you need to “put to death”? Confess them to the Lord today. Then, perhaps you can confide in someone within your church family so they can help you put it to death once and for all.
It’s been said that there are two types of people in the world. I’m not talking about the “Haves” and “Have Nots” or introverts and extroverts. There are “Here I am!” people and “There you are!” people. The “Here I am!” people walk into a room with a look-at-me attitude and a mouth full of their accomplishments. But “There you are!” people walk into a room and immediately show genuine interest in somebody else. They inquire about and ask questions to really get to know someone, to make a deep connection. God is in the business of turning “Here I am!” Christians into “There you are!” Christians. In today’s passage, Paul reminds the Philippians they are to treat one another with humility and love, just like Jesus. He begins in verse one with four rhetorical questions reminding the Philippian Christians that, since they have received these things, what follows is how they must behave. Paul says that his joy is complete when believers live in unity with one another (v. 2). But how are they to do that? By becoming “There you are!” people. Paul says that unity comes when each person cares less about themselves and more about the people around them (v. 3). Being humble is a daily choice to give glory to God and credit to others for our accomplishments. It is seeing others as Christ sees you, as someone who has value and importance. One of the best ways you can value one another is by caring about what other people care about (v. 4). Perhaps that means taking an interest in someone else’s hobby or maybe it is really trying to understand someone else’s background and situation. Whatever it may be, try being humble like Jesus and become a “There you are!” person the next time you go somewhere. >> Which type of person are you? Read the next seven verses as Paul describes the attitude Christ had when coming to earth. Allow Him to be your guide on the road to humility.
Some may think that submission means defeat and loss of control. For example, in a match, the losing wrestler is forced into submission. It is no wonder that when we read the word submit in the Bible our defensive walls go up. We don’t like the idea of submitting to anyone or anything. Paul’s teaching on submission in Ephesians 5 follows his urging that we “live as children of light” (v. 9) and in ways that please the Lord (v. 10). He begins with a general statement. As Christ followers, we are to “submit to one another” (v. 21). The word submit is typically used within a military context. For example, a private is under the rank of a general and therefore submits to the ranking member. The private shows the utmost respect, dignity, and honor to the general, but the general also bears responsibility to care for each person under his charge. Paul wants believers in a marriage to show a similar attitude of honor, respect, love, and care toward one another. Instead of wanting to be the person in control, a husband and wife are to consider the other person first. Because of their relationship under God, they both submit their personal desires and consider the needs of the other. This type of a marriage was counter-cultural to the Ephesians, and today is still out of the ordinary. Why would a person put their spouse’s needs above their own? Isn’t it important that we are always happy? Paul says we do so out of “reverence for Christ” (v. 21). Where some cultures coerce spouses to be submissive, Paul says the reason believers willingly submit is an extension of Jesus’ new command to love one another. >> If you are married, how can you choose to put the needs and desires of your spouse ahead of yourself? How would your childhood have been different if your parents’ marriage was one where they submitted to one another out of reverence for the Lord?
Is it okay to lie to your spouse? Your boss? Your friends? College students self-reported telling, on average, two lies a day. They estimated one lie in every three social interactions. And those “occasional” lies add up! It is estimated that by the time a person reaches age 50, they have told approximately 43,800 lies. While lying may be common, lies can harm and even destroy relationships. The apostle Paul urged the Ephesians that they were not to live like everyone else, “in the futility of their thinking” (v. 17). We are not to act like people who are “separated from the life of God” (v. 18). Paul said that at the heart of Christian unity is trust. Therefore, he encouraged the Ephesians to stop lying to one another and, instead, to speak the truth (v. 25). When lying happens between believers and within the body of Christ, trust is broken. When trust is broken, division will result. Sometimes, during this division, angers arise and tempers flare (v. 26). Ungodly things are said, and splits occur. In verse 26, Paul is not saying that people should stay up into wee hours of the night to reconcile their differences and get to the truth, but rather, each person must come to an agreement that the truth needs to come forth as soon as possible but anger that leads to sin is unacceptable. Paul knew that any division amongst the body would give the devil a chance to emit chaos (v. 27). Former Moody Bible Institute President, Joseph Stowell, would often warn students, “If you give the enemy an inch, he’ll take a mile.” Paul reminds believers to speak the truth, stop stealing, and do something useful for those in need (v. 28). >> Your words matter, both to God and to others. Do you recall a recent conversation when the truth was not spoken in love? What could you have done differently? Aim for honesty and humility in your conversations today.
At our dinner table, sometimes I ask my kids (ages 2, 4, and 6), “What was the hardest thing you did today?” Often one of them will respond, “Waiting!” It’s true. In our instant- gratification world, waiting is not easy, even for adults. In addition to being patient for our meal, internet speed, or an overnight package, Paul urges us to be patient with one another. Paul urges the Ephesians to live worthy of their calling (v. 1). The first thing on his list focuses on patience in how they treat one another. Living in unity with one another is not simply a part of the Christian life, it is the whole thing. But unity is not easy. Paul says it takes patience to be humble and gentle. The word lowliness could also be used for humble, meaning a desire to put others above ourselves. In Philippians 2:1–10, Paul calls for believers to have the same humble attitude as Christ Jesus did when He emptied himself and came to earth. In In addition to being humble and gentle, we are to “bear with one another in love” (v. 2). Since we are all sinners with varying personalities and backgrounds, there may be people in the body who will challenge our patience. However, that does not excuse us from interacting with them in a way that honors God. We are told to bear with each other and tolerate others’ preferences and styles. Paul challenges his readers to seek unity through peace (v. 3). The enemy would love to divide the body of Christ, but Paul reminds us that just as God the Father, Son, and Spirit are one, the body of Christ can be one (vv. 4–6). However, it takes patience. >> Do you struggle with impatience? If you are experiencing a time of waiting in your life, we recommend Today in the Word author, Brad Baurain’s book On Waiting Well.
For over 135 years, Moody Bible Institute has relied on donors to support the school through prayers and gifts. As a former student and faculty member, I have witnessed firsthand the power of those prayers and gifts. Because others give, students can graduate and serve God without the burden of excessive loan debt. I am sure Paul wasn’t thinking of Moody, but before he puts his pen down and seals up his letters to the Galatians, he reminds Christians to look after one another by carrying one another’s physical, emotional, and spiritual burdens. Paul was not naive. He begins with the realization that even the strongest believer can get “caught in a sin” (v. 1). But if some- one in the family of God has fallen, it is the responsibility of other believers to “restore that person gently” (v. 1). The term in secular Greek was a medical term for setting a fractured or dislocated bone. Paul wanted to make sure his readers were on guard in the face of temptation (v. 1). Paul then encourages the Galatians to also “carry each other’s burdens” (v. 2). Believers should not have to go through tragedy and suffering alone. It is the responsibility of other believers to come alongside and help carry the yoke of another’s burdens. However, this does not mean that all the responsibility is on the person who is helping. Many times, people help with the best intentions, but they want to do everything. This is actually prideful (vv. 3–4). Instead, the believer is to help carry another’s burden, not carry their burden entirely, “for each one should carry their own load” (v. 5). When we do this, we are fulfilling the new “law of Christ” (v. 2), to love one another. >> Did you know you can help carry the financial burden of a student who wants to get a solid biblical education at an affordable price by partnering with Moody Bible Institute? If God has laid this burden on your heart, consider making a donation today.
In American football teams there is one player who looks quite different from the others. Only when it comes time to make a field goal, does this player run onto the field. While the kicker or punter may wear the same uniform as a defensive lineman, he is generally smaller in height and weight. His job is not to defend the line, but to successfully kick a ball between the goal markers. Each player on the team has a unique ability and responsibility that is crucial to the team’s success. In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul explains how diversity within the body of Christ brings us together. Every believer deserves a seat at God’s table. Unfortunately, we are not immune to being tempted by pride and a sense of superiority over others. But Paul argues against this divisive attitude, insisting that everyone is important and needed (v. 21–23). Because God sees immeasurable value in everyone (v. 24), so should we. Even though people may be different than us, their worth goes much farther than their outward appearance or their history. Paul then gets immensely practical and clear that “there should be no division in the body,” and everyone should have “equal concern for each other” (v. 25). In other words, Christians ought to care for one another as part of the same body. Every part is connected, in both good times and bad (v. 26). Paul says in Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” By doing life together, in joy and in pain, we become united with one another. This is Paul’s desire for the Corinthian church, and it ought to be the desire for your church as well. >> Help unify your church by making sure everyone has an opportunity to be heard and a place to sit at the table. As you gather, seek out those who might not usually take an active role. Let them know they are valued!
In the late fall, football teams that thrive have usually remained healthy and each teammate embraces his unique contribution. Can you imagine a team where a defensive lineman tries to play quarterback? Or a running back wants to be punter? Instead, each player makes a contribution that, when everyone works together, makes the team strong and successful. Paul reminds us in our text today that the body of Christ ought to function as a team. Even though there are many diverse people in the family of God, we are to function as one (vv. 12, 14). What makes it possible for believers to become one “body” is the saving work of Jesus Christ (v. 13). Paul shows a bit of his humorous side here to make a point: even though there are different personalities and gifts within the church, you are all one body. He begins by addressing those in the body who may feel neglected or excluded. The foot does not get the same recognition as the hand and, therefore, may feel like an outcast (v. 15). Similarly, the ear doesn’t get the same acknowledgment as the eyes and may feel forgotten (v. 16). Paul wants Christians who feel overlooked to know they are indeed an essential part of the body. Diversity in the church is important. The body could not function if it were all just an eye or an ear (v. 17). Just like our physical bodies are made with intricate detail, perfectly in the image of God, the body of believers is created the same way. God has made each person special and unique with a specific purpose and role to play. Each person in the family of God has gifts that can help the body not just survive but to thrive (vv. 18–20). >> God views the worth of fellow church members (or even your own worth) in a different way than we do. Consider looking with fresh eyes at not only your own value in the body of Christ but also the value of others.
When I was a child, birthdays and holidays were highlighted by presents and special traditions. But as an adult, I have noticed that our get togethers tend to center around food. Not just what we will eat, but who will be joining us for the meal. In the Gospels, the writers record at least 14 separate occasions when Jesus ate meals with others. Jesus often used those times as teaching moments to bring people closer to God. Whether He was the host or the guest, He understood that gathering around a table and sharing a meal together was a powerful experience. First Corinthians 11 highlights the significance of God’s people eating together. Paul identified how the Corinthian believers were neglecting one another regarding their practice of the Lord’s Supper. The early church would eat an entire meal together in addition to the bread and wine. Sadly, some members of the Corinthian church had poor table manners. Some were impatient, others would get drunk. Instead of reflecting on Jesus’ sacrifice and the community, they focused on their own selfish desires. Paul warns them that they were sinning against the body when they neglected one another (v. 27). As an alternative, they were to examine their own lives (v. 28) before coming to the table and prepare themselves appropriately. Paul was not wanting to keep people away from the Communion Table, but rather he is imploring his readers to honestly evaluate how their conduct honors the Lord. When we examine our lives, we will be reminded of our desperate need of God’s grace and forgiveness which can be found at the Table with other believers. Paul urges believers to eat together, regardless of their societal status in a way that glorifies God (v. 33). >> Soon, many of us will gather at the table to celebrate Thanksgiving. As you look forward to turkey and pumpkin pie (or whatever your family tradition), reflect on what makes these times so special. Who can you invite to your table?
What should you do when a disagreement escalates between believers? We realize that we are all sinners, and sin can draw a wedge between people. As Christians, we are not spared from these conflicts. But is legal action advisable between two Christians who clash? In 1 Corinthians 6, Paul addresses some believers in Corinth who were at odds with one another. The situation had become so hostile that they were going to court. Notice Paul’s dismay when he writes, “[D]o you dare to take it before the ungodly?” (v. 1). Paul was not concerned that the Corinthian judges were unjust, but that believers would sue one another before an unrighteous judge and spectators. In Corinth, the judge’s seat, known as the bema seat, was in the center of the town square. You can still see some court houses in town centers today. And much like today, lawsuits then were public knowledge. While cable news didn’t cover these trials 24/7, crowds gathered for entertainment, and reputations would be ruined. It is no wonder Paul was appalled by the idea of Christians suing one another. It goes completely against the gospel message of grace, charity, and forgiveness. Paul reminded the Corinthian believers that they were citizens of another world and kingdom (vv. 2–3). Paul was not against ever taking legal action. In Acts 22:25 and 25:10– 11, he appealed to the Roman courts for his own rights. Likewise, we are grateful for the legal experts who protect believers today. However, Paul thought it reprehensible for one believer to attack another in court. When possible, Christians should seek to settle disputes themselves according to the values, principles, and truths of Scripture. >> Don’t let things escalate between you and other believers to the point where legal action is needed. Instead, seek wise godly counsel and pray for God to give you the courage and grace to confront and resolve issues.
The Cavalry Scouts are the eyes and ears on the field for the United States Army, collecting information about enemy locations, weapons, and activity. This vital group helps commanders make informed decisions. Churches need scouts too, not for military action, but for spiritual warfare. Some scholars think Romans 16 shouldn’t even be included in the book of Romans. Let’s face it, who would really miss a list of strange names? But I think, that after Paul talked about how strong and weak believers should get along and work together in chapters 14 and 15, he was reminded of some of his family and friends at the church in Rome who knew how to work together. These were the people who made up a church that the entire world was noticing (1:8). This church had grabbed the attention of the selfishly false teachers in Rome. Paul urged them to be Christian “scouts” for one another and watch out for divisive and deceitful teachers. Paul warned his church family to avoid them (v. 17). Paul’s warning was necessary because these dividers and deceivers didn’t simply show up at the front door with badges identifying them as false teachers. Rather, their ideas slipped in through the basement. They might not even see themselves as problems, but they can be destructive. Paul is not giving his readers permission to go around accusing people of teaching false doctrine out of selfish ambition. Instead, we are to look out and look after one another in avoiding false teachers. This takes wisdom and a pure and innocent heart (v. 19). He reminds us that before causing divisions, we are to approach the situation with a humble heart and wisdom. >> Do you know a new believer in the faith who could use your encouragement? In addition to praying for this person, consider giving them trusted biblical resources that can help them grow in their understanding of God’s Word and His truth.
Church greeters on a Sunday morning have a very important role. They are the first people who worshipers meet as they enter the building. Through their friendly smiles and welcoming attitudes, they let everyone know people are valued and welcome. In today’s passage, Paul gives final instructions to the church in Rome. As is true in our churches today, there were people at many different stages of their spiritual journey. Some were young believers, still figuring out how to walk steadily in a pagan world. Others were seasoned believers who were knowledgeable about the faith. With an attitude of prayer, Paul asks God to give both groups His “endurance” and “encouragement” (v. 5) toward one another. From his own experience, Paul knew that living in harmony and unity with others could only be realized through God’s power. When believers from various stages and ages of life join together, God is glorified (v. 6). Paul uses a unique Greek word to describe believers as having “one mind” and “one voice” (v. 6). This word is used frequently in the book of Acts when Luke defines the Christian community. In the original language it is the compound of two words meaning to “rush along” and “in unison.” Picture a conductor of an orchestra who is setting the tempo to ensure unity among the instruments. Similarly, the Holy Spirit blends together the lives of believers for God’s glory. Therefore, with the Spirit’s power of endurance and encouragement toward one another, Paul tells his readers they are to accept each other (v. 7). Despite our physical differences and various degrees of spiritual maturity we welcome one another. Why? He reminds us that because Christ welcomed each of us, exactly as we were (v. 7), we should welcome one another. >> You don’t have to be on the “Welcoming Team” at church to welcome people who are different from you. At the next service you attend, say hello and meet someone you have never met before.
A student once asked me, “Professor, how do you minister to people in the gray areas of life?” After a lengthy conversation, we concluded that we can either focus on making a point or making a difference in that person’s life. Paul speaks on the subject of how we relate to differences within the body of Christ, saying that “each one of us will give an account of ourselves to God” (v. 12). He then addresses how (“therefore”) we, as believers, should judge one another. Some Roman Christians were judging other Christians based on specific practices: what they ate or what days they kept as sacred. They did this with a condemning attitude. Paul encouraged them to stop making a point and to start making a difference in how they treated one another. To live in unity with one another they should stop passing judgment about “disputable matters” (14:1). Instead, “make up your mind” not to put a stumbling block between one another (v. 13). Paul urged these believers (and us) to walk a delicate line. While we should not suppress others through legalism, we also must not entice ourselves or others to sin through an unhealthy use of freedom. Paul encourages the Romans to respect one another’s liberties (v. 14). He is not saying that sinning is acceptable, but to be cautious in instances where moral choice is an individual matter (v. 15). Are we “acting in love” toward one another (v. 15)? We must not use the freedom we have in Christ to destroy one another. If we do that, it is evil (v. 16). Paul reminds us of the big picture in verses 17–18. God’s priorities are righteousness, peace, and joy, not what we eat or drink. >> Sometimes we need to refrain from certain things in the presence of others. Even though you may not be sinning, you can restrain your actions based on the love for your brother or sister in Christ, choosing to put them above yourself.
Music consists of three key components: melody, rhythm, and harmony. Melody and rhythm make music memorable, but the third element, harmony, can elevate a piece from ordinary and obvious to ambitious and sophisticated. Harmony is achieved when individual musical tones come together to form a cohesive sound. On their own, different musical instruments can play separate notes, but when the right notes are played together, harmony is created. Harmony can be created in the church too. In fact, our text today commands that Christians “live in harmony with one another” (v. 16). Paul reminds the Romans that people will continue to persecute them (v. 14), but even while enduring persecution, they need to be mindful of each other (v. 15). This awareness of what others are going through is the first component to living in harmony. Paul adds another element of living in harmony with one another: humility. Being humble and not proud is reflected in Romans 12:3: “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought.” As C. S. Lewis states, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.” When we think of ourselves less, we think more of others and see everyone as Jesus does, with immeasurable value. Christians are to include and interact with everyone. The final component which builds harmony in the church is when people are not conceited (v. 16) but have a growth mindset. The last sentence of verse 16 could be translated “Never be wise in your own sight.” Paul encourages harmony through the posture of being able to learn from one another. Harmony in a church can be challenging, but a harmonious church is attractive, healthy, and God-honoring. >> Professional musicians will tell you that harmony doesn’t happen overnight, it takes daily practice. How can you practice living in harmony today? To begin, try humbling yourself, thinking of others first, and be willing to learn.
Some things are better when shared: a funny joke, a large piece of cheesecake, popcorn. But other times, sharing can get you in trouble. For instance, sharing your political views with a coworker or giving advice to your teenager could lead to a heated exchange. However, the very first group of Christians were committed to the concept of sharing with one another. In fact, this was one of the main things that set them apart in their dog-eat-dog world. In our text today, Luke records that after the coming of the Holy Spirit and Peter’s powerful sermon, the newly planted 3,000+ member church devoted themselves to God and one another. The Greek word for fellowship (v. 42) carries the idea to “share in something.” For the early believers, this fellowship was incredibly special. They were to look outside of their individual needs and find ways to share and serve one another. The text says they “devoted” themselves to the apostles’ teaching and this fellowship. In other words, they continually and consistently had open minds and giving hands as they learned from the apostles and shared with one another. Day after day they ate together, learned together, helped each other financially, gave to one another, and worshiped together. They put the needs of one another above their own. They became one big sharing family. I’m sure they had differences, but they shared a commitment to the Lord and one another. Christians today share the belief that Jesus died and rose again. We share a love and desire for God. We share the same mission to live and give the gospel to our neighbors. We also share one another’s struggles, commitments, needs, and pains. This fellowship should be what sets us apart in our world too. >> What does fellowship mean to you and your church? Have you considered what you can share with your church? It could be your time, your service, your resources, or your wisdom.
For decades, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was a place children wanted to be. Everything was peaceful, and everyone was friendly. While it may always be a beautiful day in Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, we all don’t live in his neck of the woods. In the real world we live in, our neighbors can annoy us, avoid us, or even appall us. Why does God want us to love those people? After a studious lawyer discussed eternal life with Jesus, he received a lesson in Neighboring 101. In one of the most well-known stories of the Bible, Jesus answered the question, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus told the story of a man who was violently assaulted on his way to Jericho. Two individuals passed by, a priest and a Levite, both people you would expect to help (vv. 31–32). But, because of their personal religious practices, they did not want to associate or touch an “unclean” person. Jesus’ listeners probably gasped when He said it was a Samaritan who helped the man (v. 33). The Samaritan’s actions were selfless, sympathetic, and sacrificial (vv. 34–35). Jesus then asked, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” (v. 36). You can almost imagine the change in the lawyer’s tone of voice when he answered, “The one who had mercy on him” (v. 37). Jesus says we are to “go and do likewise,” (v. 37). But what exactly are we supposed to do? And maybe more importantly, who is our neighbor? The answer is quite simple: Your neighbor is anyone whose need you see and whose need you can meet. >> Today, look for ways that you can be a good neighbor and show others the love of Jesus. Be observant and mindful of the needs of the people whose paths you cross today. If there is a way you can meet that need, don’t hesitate to act.
We don’t exactly know the details, but the Passover meal was in progress and the disciples’ feet were dusty and dirty. Perhaps it was an honest oversight. Or maybe nobody wanted to take on the role of a servant. Regardless, Jesus saw this as a teaching opportunity. With a simple act, He would show His disciples how to love one another. After taking a towel and basin, He began washing every person’s feet (including the feet of Judas!). Then Jesus said something that changed history: “A new command I give you: Love one another” (John 13:34). But what was “new” about this command? The newness can be discovered in the words “as I have loved you.” This command can be traced back to Leviticus 19:18, “love your neighbor as yourself.” In washing the feet of His disciples, Jesus gives us an example to live by. Love is selfless and sacrificial. When we love like Jesus, we expand our faith from merely looking inwardly to our relationship with God to transforming how we treat those around us. Loving one another like Jesus loved is the identifying mark of all believers (v. 35). Everything else falls under the umbrella of this command. It was, in fact, the love the disciples had for one another that made them stand out in the pagan societies of the first few centuries. For the early Christians, this command was not simply a mere suggestion, it controlled their lives. Loving one another like Jesus is our command as well. Christians today can make an impact in our godless societies by selflessly and humbly loving one another. Following Jesus’ example of service is one of the many ways we can love and transform our communities. >> Love often requires sacrifice. Consider what you may need to sacrifice to serve one another well. Is it your pride? Time? Resources? Whatever it may be, you will be fulfilling Jesus’ new command.
Have you ever been the recipient of an act of love that moved your heart deeply? Imagine how the disciples felt when Jesus washed their feet and then spoke these three words to them: “Love one another” (v. 17). They had just completed their Passover meal when Jesus urged them to be bonded together by love. What was the significance of this command? The Moody Bible Institute Commentary provides this answer: “The command to love requires a supernatural component to fulfill, requires faith, and is more a choice than an emotion.” In this month’s study, we will take a deep dive into this and other “one another” passages to better understand Jesus’ desire for us to live in Christian community. In John 15, Jesus said that when we remain in His love and have love for one another, our joy will be complete (vv. 10–11). In other words, true joy can only be experienced when it comes from an outpouring of sacrificial and selfless love. You know this to be true if you have ever celebrated the success of a child, grandchild, or friend. We take joy not in ourselves, but in someone else. Next, Jesus shared that the greatest type of love is sacrificial (v. 13). Here He was foreshadowing His death on the cross. Jesus longed for His followers to become closer to one another. Notice that He used the word “friends” in verses 14–15. In today’s context, this means that as Christ followers we are no longer just associates, but family, chosen for the purpose of bearing fruit (v. 16). If you are a follower of Jesus, you have become a part of His family, and are commanded to “love one another” (v. 17). >> Consider the closest people in your life. What makes your relationship with them so special? This may be the perfect month to invite those people to join you in a Bible study, learning how you can grow together in Christ.
I encounter the final verse of 2 Peter literally every day at work. Second Peter 3:18 is posted on the wall of the main hallway at Moody Theological Seminary in Chicago. We want every student to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” and for everything we do to bring Him glory. As we look forward together to the Second Coming, we hope this is your purpose as well. If we want Him to find us prepared, we must “make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him” (v. 14). We’ve encountered the phrase “make every effort” before (see October 25 study), so we know we must understand it in context of our salvation, which has already been fully accomplished and guaranteed by God. Therefore, our pursuit of holiness is also empowered and guaranteed by God Himself (see 1 Peter 1:3–5). Verses 15–16 contain an important comment on the writings of apostle Paul. While acknowledging that Paul’s epistles are “hard to understand,” Peter treated them as equivalent to “the other Scriptures,” that is, the Old Testament (see 2 Peter 1:16–21). This demonstrates that the early church understood Paul’s letters to be as inspired and inerrant as previous Scriptures. Peter closed this letter with two important exhortations. The second has already been quoted above. The first is “Be on your guard” (v. 17). Against what? “The error of the lawless,” or false teaching. If we don’t take a firm stand on truth, we might be “carried away” by error and “fall from your secure position,” which can also be translated “fall from your firm grasp of the truth” or “lose your own secure footing.” So this doesn’t mean “lose your salvation” but rather refers to being deceived by false teachers. >> As we wrap up our study of 2 Peter, we again encourage you to write down what God taught you in this epistle. What are a few takeaways from this month’s study that you will want to put into practice?
Jesus’ parable of the ten virgins, or bridesmaids, ends happily for five of them but unhappily for the other five. What made the difference? Five were prepared. They brought enough oil for their lamps and were ready when the bridegroom finally arrived. The unprepared five ended up on the wrong side of the banquet hall door (Matt. 25:1–13). The spiritual lesson of the parable is to be watchful and prepared for the Lord’s return. “Do not forget,” Peter warned (there’s that verb again)! What should we remember (vv. 8–9)? First, the irrelevance of time to God. He works in time but is Himself outside and above time. Second, that God is a faithful promise keeper, no matter how slow the fulfillment of His promises might feel to us. And third, that God’s desire is for “everyone to come to repentance” (v. 9). His “slowness” is actually patient love. We can be certain that the Day of the Lord will come (vv. 10, 12). How? “Like a thief,” at least for unbelievers. It will be surprising and unwelcome. The apocalypse will find them spiritually unprepared. For those of us who are prepared, however, it will be the coming of the Bridegroom. The great Wedding Day will be here at last! How then should we live (vv. 11– 13)? The answer is the same as it has been throughout 1 and 2 Peter: “You ought to live holy and godly lives.” How will this “speed” Christ’s return? By obeying God’s kingdom purposes on earth (see also Rom. 11:25), we can in a sense hasten that day. This is not to say we can force God to do anything, but we can act as God has already decreed. In any case, our pursuit of righteousness will end when Christ establishes “a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (v. 13). >> If you knew Christ were coming back tomorrow, what would you do differently today? Don’t wait—make that change sooner rather than later!
The Chicago Tribune reported that last year Chicago drivers spent 104 hours, or more than four days, stuck in traffic. That’s “more time than drivers in any other major U.S. city.” The economic impact is $1,622 in wasted time per driver and $5.8 billion for the city as a whole. Waiting for Christ’s return can sometimes feel like being stuck in traffic. Are we getting anywhere? Yet faith-filled waiting for the Second Coming is an essential part of discipleship, especially when “scoffers” are doubting that it will ever happen (vv. 3–7). Such people pridefully mock Christ’s promises and follow “their own evil desires”—their lifestyles give them away. They judge based on personal experience, which is limited and flawed (v. 4). For example, they “deliberately forget” Creation and the Flood (vv. 5–6). In those events, we see that God exercises sovereign and just power over the entire world. He is both able and willing to keep His promises. He has the right to do as He decides and can be trusted to do so righteously. To “forget” here is not a failure of memory, but of moral and spiritual discernment. Such people choose to disregard God’s words and actions and trust their own opinions. In essence, they have become their own little gods. On the “day of judgment,” they will be sentenced accordingly. Waiting with patience and integrity for Christ’s return is part of “wholesome thinking” or study of God’s Word (vv. 1–2). The words “reminder” and “recall” are not referring merely to memorization. Biblically, to “remember” also means to value and obey within the context of a relationship. The purpose of both of Peter’s epistles has been to stimulate us to do this! >> Are you interested in additional study of 1 and 2 Peter? Edmund P. Clowney has written an excellent commentary on The Message of 1 Peter. Former Moody faculty member Louis Barbieri has also written on 1 and 2 Peter for the Everyman’s Bible Commentary series.
Sadly, it isn’t hard today to think of popular teachers who claim to be Christians yet make statements that directly oppose God’s Word. Many of them have best-selling books and huge internet followings. They encourage the church to bend with the culture and accept practices that the Bible clearly calls sinful, twisting the Bible to support their personal beliefs. Their influence is misleading and destructive. In today’s reading, Peter has harsh words for these false teachers. He colorfully describes their sinfulness and their menace to new and weak believers. These teachers were familiar with the gospel but turned their backs on it, becoming worse than ordinary pagans. In a sense, it would have been better never to know the truth than to reject it (vv. 20–22). These people are so immoral that they “carouse in broad daylight” (vv. 13–16). They have no shame and revel “in their pleasures while they feast with you.” Peter was referring to the church’s “love feasts,” at which both a meal and the Lord’s Supper were served. They “never stop sinning”—it is their way of life. They “seduce the unstable,” picking off the weaker sheep from the flock. They’re also guilty of greed, like Balaam, who was rebuked by a donkey (see Num. 22–24 for Balaam’s story). False teachers are “springs without water and mists driven by a storm” (v. 17). They’re deceptive, unable to deliver what they promise. Their words are empty and boastful. They offer “freedom” when they themselves are “slaves of depravity” (see Rom. 6:16). As we read yesterday, false teachers will meet their just punishment, “blackest darkness” (v. 17). We must be vigilant, but God will protect truth and His people. >> In our modern culture, we are certain to encounter false teaching that masquerades as Christianity. As Christ followers, it is important to check every teaching against God’s Word to discern who is telling God’s truth and who is circulating lies.
Ahab, king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, were trying to decide whether to go into battle together. Ahab kept 400 so-called prophets on staff, who dutifully “prophesied” victory. Unimpressed, Jehoshaphat asked if there was an actual prophet of the Lord. Reluctantly, Ahab sent for Micaiah, who prophesied their defeat (1 Kings 22:1–28). “I can tell him only what the LORD tells me,” Micaiah said (v. 14). There are still false teachers in the church today (vv. 1–3). We cannot minimize this issue. A heresy is any teaching which contradicts God’s Word. These teachers mislead many into believing ideas that are not from God. How can we know false teaching when we hear it? False teachers will in some way deny Christ and His redemption (v. 1). In addition, they will be marked by depraved conduct, greed, and “fabricated stories.” The result for them will be condemnation and destruction. God will destroy false teachers and all the wicked, while rescuing the godly (vv. 4–9). It might not appear that way. It might seem the wicked are getting away with it and escaping judgment. If we’re tempted to think this way, we can look to Scripture for counterevidence: (1) Fallen angels, apparently some of whom are already in hell (v. 4); (2) The entire ancient world, which was destroyed by the Flood (v. 5); and (3) Sodom and Gomorrah, judged by fire (vv. 6–8). God doesn’t take sin lightly and will surely punish false teachers as well (v. 10–12). In contrast to godly submission, a quality we’ve studied this month, they “despise authority.” In their arrogance, they even abuse fallen angels. “They are like unreasoning animals,” Peter wrote. Tragically, they’d suppressed and disfigured the image of God in them (see also Rom. 1:18). >> How can you be a truth teller? Study your Bible to help keep yourself firmly grounded in what it says. To help upgrade a friend’s Bible knowledge, why not tell them about Today in the Word?
One day, Jesus took Peter, James, and John to the top of a mountain. There He was transfigured, shining with divine glory. He discussed His coming crucifixion with Moses and Elijah, and the three disciples heard God the Father approve of His Son. On the way down, Jesus instructed them not to talk about this incident until after His Resurrection (Mark 9:1–10). In today’s reading, Peter cited this experience as evidence for the reliability of the gospel (vv. 16–18). His readers could trust him because he was an eyewitness. He and the other apostles did not invent “cleverly devised stories.” Our faith is rooted in historical events! It’s also rooted in the Old Testament, including the prophets (vv. 19–21). Their messages were inspired by the Holy Spirit, not their own imaginations (2 Tim. 3:16). Scripture is therefore true and trustworthy, unlike false teachers (chapter 2) and worldly wisdom. God’s Word is a “light shining in a dark place” and Christ’s return will be like the coming of dawn into the darkness of history. Part of Peter’s ministry was to remind his readers of truths they’d already learned, not necessarily to teach them anything new, so they would remain “firmly established in the truth” (vv. 12–15). Since he knew he’d die soon (v. 14), he was even more motivated toward this goal. Some scholars think, based on verse 15, that Peter was working with Mark on that Gospel at that very time for this very purpose. The metaphor “tent of this body” evokes the Exodus and God’s care for Israel in the wilderness on the way to the Promised Land (v. 13; see also 2 Cor. 5:1–10). In fact, the word “departure” (v. 15), indicating death, in Greek is exodos (“exodus”). >> Christ had revealed to Peter that his time on earth was nearly done (v. 14). Although most of us do not know when our time will come, let’s rejoice with Peter that death is nothing to fear!
I have worn glasses or contact lenses since second grade, and blended bifocals for over a decade. Without them, the world is a blur. Even with them, I see haloes around lights and floaters everywhere, although I’ve learned to ignore them. As a result of my nearly lifelong experience of nearsightedness and astigmatism, I might have an inside track on understanding Peter’s figure of speech in verse 9. Immature or stagnant Christians are called “nearsighted and blind.” They’re failing to grow because they’ve lost sight of their salvation. Since Christ has given us everything we need for a godly life, we are to “make every effort” to grow in Christian virtue (vv. 5–7). This list, one of several in the New Testament, includes faith, goodness, accurate knowledge, self-control, perseverance or steadfastness, godliness or righteousness, mutual affection or kindness, and selfless, sacrificial agape love (see Gal. 5:22–23; Col. 3:12–14). If we keep growing in these qualities in “increasing measure,” we will not be ineffective or unproductive in our “pursuit of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ more intimately” (NET); we will bear fruit in and for Christ (vv. 8–9). By contrast, believers who are not growing are “nearsighted and blind.” It’s as if they have forgotten that they have been cleansed from sin and redeemed. “Therefore,” since spiritual growth is expected, desirable, and testimony to genuine salvation, we’re to “make every effort to confirm [our] calling and election” (vv. 10–11). In other words, spiritual maturation and good works are evidence that we really are saved and walking on the right path. We cannot earn our way to heaven, but there will be evidence that we’re God’s children and belong there. >> As children grow, parents like to mark their increasing height on a doorframe. How do we mark our spiritual progress? Take a moment to reflect on how you’ve grown in the Lord during the past year or maybe five or ten years.
In 1968, archaeologists excavated the site of a building that tradition identifies as Peter’s house in Capernaum. A church dating back to the fifth century A.D. had later been built there. They found evidence that the house, which dated back to the first century A.D., had been adapted for early church gatherings and included many prayers and inscriptions written on the walls. Peter was a real person, and he wrote two real letters that are part of our Bibles today. Second Peter was probably written from Rome in about 67 A.D., again to believers in western Asia (v. 1). The apostle might have been imprisoned at the time, since he was martyred around 68 A.D. We know this is his second letter because he said so directly (3:1). Its themes include growing in righteousness (chapter 1), false teachers (chapter 2), and the return of Christ (chapter 3). Peter’s opening words in this epistle remind us of the cherished gift of salvation: “To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours” (vv. 1–2). The first thing the apostle wanted to tell his readers might come as a surprise: We have everything we need to live a godly life (v. 3). We know from 1 Peter that we’re on a journey. God is in the process of sanctifying us to be Christlike (Rom. 8:29). But we’re not there yet. So in what sense do we already have “everything we need”? We have God’s power on our side, and He’s called us to Himself as part of His glory and goodness. We see and experience this in “his very great and precious promises,” by which we have escaped sin and instead “participate in the divine nature”—a phrase expressing our salvation (v. 4). >> As we did with 1 Peter, we recommend beginning your study of 2 Peter by listening to the entire book using an audio Bible. Doing so will help you grasp its big picture.
Mark, who you may know as the author of one of the gospels (v. 13), was a lifelong friend of Peter’s. In fact, Peter may have been the one who led Mark to trust in Christ, thus becoming his spiritual father. The early church met in Mark’s mother’s house, which is where Peter went when he was miraculously released from prison (Acts 12:12). In addition, Mark accompanied Paul and Barnabas on part of their first missionary journey, and Barnabas on a later missionary journey (Acts 15:36–39). As Peter concluded his first letter, he summarized its two main purposes (v. 12). First, he wanted to encourage his readers with the power of God’s grace. Second, he urged them to “stand fast in it.” Peter had taught them that salvation has a transformational effect; we are not what we were. God guarantees that He will finish the work He began in us (Phil. 1:6). Second, he showed how these truths affect our lives, while recognizing our utter dependence on God’s strength. Some think Silas may have been Peter’s co-author or scribe; it’s more likely he was the messenger who carried Peter’s letter to the churches in western Asia (v. 12). “She who is in Babylon” is probably a coded reference to the church in Rome. Babylon is a real city, but at that point in history it was mostly in ruins. The reference therefore likely indicates the current center of imperial power, which was Rome. “Peace to all of you who are in Christ,” Peter concluded, exhorting them to greet one another with a kiss (v. 14). In that day, a kiss on the cheek conveyed good wishes and had been adapted by believers to signify brotherly love. >> As we wrap up our study of 1 Peter, we encourage you to write in your journal or the notes section of the Today in the Word app about what God has taught you through this letter.
If you visit a zoo, you might get the idea that lions are merely oversized kitties whose favorite activity is napping in the warm sun. The strong fence separating us hardly seems necessary. But in their natural habitats, lions are fearsome carnivores capable of hunting and killing almost any other land animal...and us as well! No wonder Peter warned his readers: “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (v. 8). After addressing elders (see yesterday’s study), he went on in today’s reading to exhort the church as a whole. Our responsibility is to submit to our leaders (v. 5). “All of you,” Peter also admonished, “clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” To clothe ourselves is a biblical metaphor for “putting on” Christlikeness (see Rom. 13:14). These days we dress “business casual” for work or shorts and a t-shirt to a ballgame. What do we “put on” as we follow Christ? We should humble ourselves before God (v. 6), trusting Him to help and encourage us at just the right time. That’s also why we cast our anxieties on Him (v. 7; see Ps. 55:22). Faith is the cure for worry! Faith is how we stand firm and resist the devil (vv. 8–9). We should be vigilant and watchful, because he’s always looking for ways to attack and injure us. He hates to see us grow and follow in the footsteps of Christ. As he closes this first letter, Peter offers a word of benediction and blessing (vv. 10–11). Our present suffering is only for “a little while,” but our final restoration or finished redemption will be eternal. Our present and future are full of God’s grace, power, and glory! >> As you get dressed tomorrow (or even today if you’re reading early), consider what else you are “putting on.” How can you “put on” humility? How will beginning with humility in mind change your day?
Every time we scan the headlines, it seems another Christian leader has fallen into sin. One is guilty of sexual immorality, another of financial wrongdoing, and yet another of an abusive leadership style. True shepherds seem to be in short supply. This makes today’s reading even more vitally important. As Peter began to bring this letter to a close, he had specific reminders for pastors and elders. He addressed them as a “fellow elder,” identifying with them and encouraging them although he couldn’t be with them in person (v. 1). His present was the same as theirs— sanctification and suffering. His future was the same as theirs—glorification (see also Rom. 8:18). Peter instructed church elders: “Be shepherds of God’s flock” (vv. 2–3). The English word “pastor” comes from a Latin word meaning “shepherd.” Church leaders had a responsibility to care for their congregations and to watch over them. Instead of using their positions for dishonest financial gain—as some so-called “Christian leaders” still do today—they should be eager and willing to serve. Their authority is from God and should not be used for personal gain (see Matt. 20:20–28). In addition, they should lead by example or “practice what they preach.” Peter may have had in mind Christ’s instructions to him personally. When Jesus “reinstated” him following his three denials, He told him: “Feed my sheep” and “Take care of my sheep” (John 21:15–19). His readers and Peter thus understood that if they stumbled, God would forgive and strengthen them. By leading faithfully, pastors and elders can receive “the crown of glory that will never fade away,” awarded by the Chief Shepherd Himself when He returns (v. 4; see also John 10:11, 14). >> October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Consider sending a note of encouragement to your pastor or church leaders. We are thankful for those who have devoted their lives to serving God’s people in these important roles.
Polycarp, bishop of Smyrna, was a second-century martyr for Christ. When the old man was brought to the arena, the Roman proconsul urged him to worship Caesar and curse Christ. Polycarp replied, “Eighty- six years I have served him, and he never did me any wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” Polycarp understood the privilege of participating in Christ’s sufferings (v. 13). Suffering has been a major theme in Peter’s letter (1:6–7). The phrase “fiery ordeal” might indicate that Nero’s persecutions had begun. For Christians to suffer is normal. The world tends to persecute the church because we are members of two opposing kingdoms. Another reason for suffering is that God can use it to test and refine us (v. 12). Our response should be joy (v. 13). What does it mean to “participate” in Christ’s sufferings? It does not mean our sufferings play any role in redemption. Rather, it means we suffer while spreading the gospel. Christ suffered to create the gospel; we suffer to proclaim it. “Participate” thus indicates we suffer for the same basic reason as our Lord. This is definitely reason to rejoice! And we’ll be even more joyful when He returns and our redemption is fully realized. This doesn’t apply to ordinary suffering (vv. 15–16). Sometimes we simply reap the consequences of our sinful actions. But when we suffer for Christ, we’re actually blessed (v. 14). The gospel reverses things—the last shall be first, servants are honored, and suffering can be a blessing. For unbelievers, suffering can be punitive (God’s judgment) and terrifying (vv. 17–18). For believers, however, suffering can be a call to “commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good” (v. 19). >> There are many places in our world where Christians are facing severe suffering; the believers in Ukraine are just one example. We encourage you to join us as we pray for these brothers and sisters in Christ today.
In a Rhymes with Orange cartoon, two doomsday prophets are walking down the street. One carries a sign reading, “The end is near.” The other’s sign, by contrast, proclaims, “This will never end.” Christ’s return is the next major event on God’s redemptive calendar, which is why Peter could write, “The end of all things is near” (v. 7). “End” is used here in the sense of “culmination.” Biblically, the “last days” stretch from Christ’s first advent to His second. We’re living in them now! This is another motivation for us to imitate Christ in our attitudes and actions. We want to be found ready when He returns. What can we do while waiting? First, we should “be alert and of sober mind so that [we] may pray” (v. 7). Second, we should “love each other deeply” (v. 8; see 1:22). “Deeply” does not mean fuzzy sentiments, but rather “actively” or “fervently,” like an athlete going all-out. Why? Because “love covers over a multitude of sins” (alluding to Prov. 10:12). Forgiveness is a powerful example of love in action. Peter asked Jesus how many times to forgive, to which the Lord answered “seventy-seven times,” essentially meaning “without limit” (Matt. 18:21– 22). Third, we should “offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (v. 9). And fourth, we should use our spiritual gifts to serve one another (vv. 10–11). This is what it means to be “faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” This list makes quite a contrast with how people lived in their pagan or pre-Christ days—”debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry” (4:3). Our new priorities are to be alert and prayerful, love one another, show hospitality, and serve one another through spiritual gifts. No wonder Peter broke out in a brief doxology at the end of verse 11! >> Today is a “choose your own application” day! Pick one item from Peter’s list of four ways to “live as if the end is near” and make a plan to put it into practice.
At age 11, I resolved to stop sinning. After all, I knew that God hates sin and Christ saved us from sin. What possible excuse could I have for continuing to sin? By my own estimation, I lasted about a week before things went haywire. I’m sure my sisters would say the time was much shorter! As Christians, we should be “done with sin” (v. 1). Christ has won the victory. It’s as good as ours. So why do we still sin? Because we’re still work in progress (see 1 John 1:8–10). Sanctification is the part of our salvation journey when we’re on the way to being finally and completely “done with sin.” Nonetheless, there should be a startling contrast between our old and new lives. Our old lives were built around “evil human desires.” Now we live for the “will of God” (v. 2). In our old lives, we wasted time on sins such as sexual immorality, drunkenness, and idolatry (v. 3). People will be surprised at our new lives and the changes in our behavior. They might “heap abuse” on us for not joining them in our former sinful behaviors (v. 4). If they don’t trust in Christ, they will be the ones surprised on the Day of Judgment (v. 5). They will be held accountable for their sin and pay the just penalty of death (Rom. 6:23). “This is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead” (v. 6). This might sound confusing, but it just means that the gospel was preached to people who were alive but are now dead. They had a chance to receive Christ when they were alive, but that opportunity is now gone (Heb. 9:27). If they did receive Christ, then their spirits are now absent from the body and present with the Lord (see 2 Cor. 5:6–10). >> Sometimes we get too comfortable with sin. We should long for our sanctification! We encourage you today to make a renewed commitment to Christlikeness.
One year, our family visited the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in Kentucky. This incredible full-scale replica of Noah’s Ark answers questions such as “What about the dinosaurs?” and “How did they keep the ship clean?” For Peter, Noah and the Flood were an important representation of Christ’s work of redemption (v. 18). Jesus suffered once because that was sufficient, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament (Heb. 7:26–27). His death was substitutionary and made possible our peace with God (see Rom. 5:1–2). In this passage we are told that, after His Resurrection, Christ “went and made proclamation [of His victory] to the imprisoned spirits” (v. 19). Who were these spirits? “Those who were disobedient long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built” (v. 20). They might be the people who rejected Noah’s message, now in hell, or fallen angels, the “sons of God” in Genesis 6:1–4 (see also 2 Peter 2:4–5). Given how the passage ends—with “angels, authorities and powers in submission” to Christ (v. 22), the latter choice seems to fit better. But if you are puzzled, you aren’t alone! The Moody Bible Commentary calls these verses “possibly the most difficult NT passage to interpret.” Both Noah’s Ark and baptism provide a picture of salvation (vv. 20–21). Just as the Ark saved people from the judgment of a massive flood, water baptism symbolizes our salvation from eternal judgment. In both, water represents death, but in the second, it also represents spiritual rebirth and eternal life. Baptism represents the “pledge of a clear conscience toward God,” that is, a public commitment of faith to live worthy of Christ’s salvation. >> Have you followed the Lord Jesus in baptism? Baptism is an outward sign of an inward reality. If you’ve never been baptized, we encourage you to discuss it with your pastor or another church leader (see Rom. 6:1 4).
How does having hope in our eternal future help us live for Christ today? In Evangelism as Exiles, Elliot Clark wrote about 1 Peter 3:15: “Peter wrote to encourage Asian believers with the hope of future glory, but he also expected that such hope would have an influence on those around them. He expected that their evident hope amid suffering would be the catalyst for many unbelievers to inquire about their faith.” The “hope” in this verse is the same as earlier in the epistle— salvation (1:3, 13, 21). Believers are to be always ready “to give the reason for the hope that [we] have” (v. 15). Notice that evangelism and apologetics here are envisioned as answers to questions. We’re not told to shove the gospel down people’s throats or to debate anyone into agreement. Peter specified that we’re to share the hope that we have in Christ “with gentleness and respect.” When we witness, both content (what we say) and method (how we say it) are important. We should give unbelievers no legitimate reason to criticize or slander us or the gospel (v. 16; 2:12). We can expect opposition, but we should keep a “clean conscience” and not sink to their level. After all, it’s better “to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (v. 17). It’s worth being a victim of injustice for the sake of the gospel, just as Christ was (v. 18). Our outward witness is based on our inner commitment to revering Christ as Lord (v. 15). Evangelism is not optional. Witness must be part of the Christian life. If it isn’t, we’re failing to revere Christ as Lord or to honor Him as holy. >> Listen to those around you today. You may notice an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. Given that fact, we encourage you today to pray for the salvation of an unbelieving friend and for an opportunity to share the gospel and the hope we have in Christ.
What would it look like to live such a Christian life that others couldn’t help but notice? Peter gives us some helpful instruction here on how to shine our light before others, by living with love, compassion, and humility. The word “finally” at the start of today’s reading is important. Peter is completing a “thought unit” on how to live as God’s chosen people, a section that began in chapter 2, verse 9. Love, compassion, and humility are essential Christian virtues. Obeying the series of commands in verses 8–9 will help us follow in Christ’s footsteps. Believers should be like-minded, living in unity and harmony (Phil. 2:2), as well as sympathetic, weeping with those who weep and rejoicing with those who rejoice (Rom. 12:15). We’re to love one another (1:22; John 13:34–35). We’re to be compassionate and humble, as Peter had learned from experience. We’re not to repay evil with evil but with blessing. When we do this, we’ll inherit a blessing—the eternal blessing of salvation. Peter goes on to describe what a righteous person looks like by quoting Psalm 34:12–16 (vv. 10–12). Christ-followers should speak truth in loving ways. We’re to pursue righteousness, and when necessary, repent of evil and turn to good instead. We’re also to seek peace and reconciliation with others. As we live this way, God hears our prayers and His face shines on us in both the present and the future. Living righteously has benefits. It usually helps us get along with others (vv. 13–14). But even if following Jesus’ example does lead to suffering, we’ll continue to experience God’s grace and favor. >> It is worth making note of the three key qualities in this passage: “love,” “compassion,” and “humility.” Why not choose one of these words and make it your focus for today or this week? Ask God to give you opportunities to follow Him by exhibiting this quality to others.
The National Marriage Project found several secrets to a successful marriage. Researchers discovered that husbands and wives who practice caring for and forgiving one another had higher levels of marital satisfaction (not too surprising!). In addition, these couples experienced more stability, less conflict, and even more sexual fulfillment. In today’s reading, Peter describes how Christian husbands and wives should treat one another. He begins with wives and the purpose of submission (vv. 1–6; Eph. 5:22–24). As with citizens submitting to an unjust emperor, or slaves submitting to harsh masters, Peter had in mind a difficult scenario—believing wives submitting to unbelieving husbands. We should note this is not unconditional, for example, in cases of abuse. We should also note that this does not apply to unmarried couples, since Christians should not be unequally yoked (2 Cor. 6:14). Peter was addressing couples who were already married when the wife converted to Christianity. The purpose of submission, as we’ve already seen, is witness. The goal is to attract the unbelieving husband to faith in Christ (v. 1), a radical goal. It was unheard of in those days for a wife to follow a different religion from her husband. To hope to win him over was bold indeed! How could she do that? Through purity, reverence, and inner beauty (vv. 2–4). She should follow the example of Sarah and other “holy women of the past” whose submission to their husbands was part of their faith, as opposed to fear (vv. 5–6). Peter does not forget husbands. They are commanded to treat their wives with consideration and respect (v. 7; Eph. 5:25–33). Husbands and their wives are both heirs of salvation and equal in God’s love (Gal. 3:28). >> Looking for a good book on marriage? We recommend Marriage: 6 Gospel Commitments Every Couple Needs to Make by Paul David Tripp and The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God by Timothy Keller with Kathy Keller.
Who are you following? The great American preacher Gardner Taylor encouraged his listeners: “If you are in Jesus Christ, you are on the right road. Don’t let anybody turn you around. I am as certain as I stand here that there is no other way to life, life radiant, life glorious, life triumphant, except in Jesus Christ...if you are in Christ, you’re on the right road.” Following in Christ’s footsteps is always the right choice (v. 21). But like the original disciples, we may be tempted to think following Him will lead us to places of privilege and power. Not so! Peter targeted that assumption by describing how Christ lived: He never sinned. Neither deceit nor lying was ever found in His mouth (v. 22). When insulted, He didn’t retaliate. When suffering, He didn’t respond with threats, even though He could easily have taken revenge on His persecutors. Instead, He entrusted Himself to His Father’s love and care (v. 23). For Christians who were likely starting to be persecuted by Nero at this time, and for slaves with harsh masters, it was particularly important to trust God for justice. Following in Christ’s steps means pursuing holiness and enduring suffering. Why should we do these things? Why did Christ? For the sake of our redemption and the gospel (v. 24; Mark 8:34–35). Because He “bore our sins in his body on the cross,” we are to die to sin and live for righteousness. This had always been God’s plan, as we can also see from the allusions to Isaiah 53 in today’s passage. Instead of being lost sheep trying to run our own lives, we live by faith in our Good Shepherd (v. 25). >> We don’t hear the word “meekness” much these days. Christ’s attitude in verse 23 demonstrates this virtue. Learn more by looking up this word in a Bible concordance or the search function of an online Bible. What does it mean to be meek?
First-century slavery in the Roman Empire was temporary, that is, most slaves could expect to purchase their freedom within 10–15 years. By contrast, American slavery was typically for life. Slaves were regarded as property, without social status or human rights. Slavery has always been an unjust social institution, but knowing this cultural distinction helps us better understand Peter’s command that slaves submit to their masters, even harsh ones (v. 18). This follows his command to all Christians to “live as God’s slaves” (v. 16). For slaves to submit to their masters was this command’s highest degree of difficulty. Such submission is also taught in the other household codes of the New Testament (see Eph. 6:5–8). The motive is the same—”reverent fear of God” (v. 18). Make no mistake. This does not mean God endorses slavery! Since it was possible at that time to be a slave and live as a Christian, questions of justice were left in God’s hands. Believers were to live out the gospel before a watching world. If slaves could gain their freedom, they should, but Peter makes it clear that they were already free in God’s eyes (1 Cor. 7:21–22). Peter’s words turn the understanding of slavery upside down. Christian masters were to treat their slaves right and told they would be held accountable before God for doing so (Eph. 6:9). And who ever heard of a slave who’d been promised an eternal inheritance (Col. 3:22–24)?! Any believer who suffers for doing good, including slaves, is following in Christ’s steps and earning God’s commendation (vv. 19–21). Jesus also suffered unjustly. He was ranked not among the privileged and the powerful but among the slaves and the lowly (Mark 10:42–45). >> In a world focused on asserting our own rights with goals of attaining wealth, power, and social status, Peter’s words may seem challenging. As we follow Christ’s example of humility, we might need to rethink our personal goals!
Many of us don’t respond well to authority. Pastor Greg Gilbert explains: “Authority often strikes people as an inherently negative, abusive, or tyrannical concept...But authority isn’t inherently bad...In fact, authority is integral to God’s created order, and when his work of creation was completed, the structure of authority he’d established in the world was good and beautiful.” Submission to authority is a prominent theme in 1 Peter. It’s another example of how we should live holy lives as the people of God and be a good witness to unbelievers (vv. 12, 15). Today’s passage focuses on our submission to civil authority (vv. 13– 14). By “human authority,” Peter meant legitimate government institutions at various levels. Their larger purpose is justice and the common good, which we should support. In any case, their authority has been established by God and we should submit “for the Lord’s sake” (see Rom. 13:1–7). What about Peter’s statement, “We must obey God rather than human beings!” (Acts 5:29)? This is true, but it’s the exception rather than the rule. Too often, we use this excuse when it’s not really about obedience to God but when we are focused on our personal rights and opinions. It’s worth remembering that the emperor at this time was Nero (54–68 A.D.) who persecuted Christians. Peter reminded his readers that spiritual freedom is not an excuse for license, throwing aside restraint and responsibility (v. 16; see also Gal. 5:13). As Christ-followers, we’re in but not of this world. The gospel’s reputation shouldn’t be tarnished by the “ignorant talk of foolish people” (vv. 15, 16). Paradoxically, freedom in Christ means we should “live as God’s slaves” (v. 16). >> Today, think about the people God has placed in positions of authority over you, whether at home, at work, or in your community. How can you honor them? Praying for them is one way to start.
Did you know that you are chosen? Maybe in elementary school you were the last one selected for a team. You may still feel the sting of being passed over by the team captain. But today’s passage confirms that you have been chosen by God Himself! God chose Abraham early in biblical history (see Gen. 12). But his descendants did not become a chosen nation until they received the Law at Mount Sinai (Ex. 19:1–8). God promised: “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.” The church is also “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession” (v. 9). This means we’re called to faithfulness and obedience. We’re destined for a joyful eternity with Him. This truth is so important it’s restated: “Now you are the people of God” (v. 10). After Israel received the Law at Mount Sinai, they did not suddenly become perfect. Far from it! The same is true for us. When we believed in Christ for salvation, we did not suddenly become perfect. We were profoundly transformed, yes, but with additional transformations ahead on our spiritual journeys. What made the difference between “not God’s people” and “God’s people,” for both Israel and us, was and is receiving God’s mercy. Our change in identity should lead us to pursue holiness, that is, to “abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul” (v. 11). Such things no longer fit who we are as “foreigners and exiles.” One purpose is to “live such good lives among the pagans” that God is glorified and the gospel is proclaimed (v. 12). >> Today’s reading challenges us to live in such a way that others see Jesus in us! Not just one day, but again and again. The word “see” in verse 12 means careful watching over a long period of time, a pattern of behavior. By this standard, how’s your witness before unbelievers?
Singer, musician, and writer Michael Card wrote an album reflecting on the life of the apostle Peter, titled A Fragile Stone. His song “Living Stones” says, “We are holy, living stones built upon the firm foundation that is Jesus. And as we cling to that Rock, who became a Stumbling Block, we remember we are living stones.” The song’s metaphor comes from today’s reading, which is in turn based on several Old Testament passages (Ps. 118:22; Isa. 8:14; 28:16). Perhaps Peter was also remembering Jesus’ parable of the houses built on foundations of sand versus rock (Matt. 7:24–27). As “living stones,” we are the building materials, but the cornerstone is Jesus Christ, the “Living Stone” Himself (v. 4). He was “rejected by humans but chosen by God.” We put Him on a cross, but ultimately this was God’s sovereign plan, as Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:22–24). Christ, the cornerstone, is the key to constructing the house (v. 6) and to God’s entire plan of salvation. To those who refuse to believe, Christ is a stumbling block (vv. 7–8). They trip over Him, a choice with serious consequences. Those who reject Christ and disobey the gospel are destined for eternal punishment. By contrast, to God the Father and therefore to believers, Christ is “chosen” and “precious” (vv. 4, 6, 7). “The one who trusts in him will never be put to shame,” meaning that He is worthy of our trust. Our faith in Him is absolutely safe in Him. Our service as a “holy priesthood” is to offer Him “spiritual sacrifices,” namely, ourselves (v. 5; Rom. 12:1–2). As we do so, we’re not only acting (trusting, obeying) but also being acted upon (growing up, being built into a house) by God. >> To dig deeper, we encourage you to read or study other Scripture passages about Christ the cornerstone, including the parable of the tenants (Mark 12:1–12) and Peter’s sermon to the Sanhedrin (Acts 4:1–12).
Earlier this year, my oldest daughter graduated from high school. To her mom and me, it seems like moments ago that we welcomed her into the world! Where did the time go? But growing up is inevitable. It would be strange indeed if our daughter had remained a cute baby all these years. It would be even more strange if the believers reading Peter’s letter stayed spiritually immature indefinitely. He exhorts them to “grow up in your salvation” (v. 2). They were to begin “growing up” by ridding themselves of malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander (v. 1). These vices showed a notable lack of love and truth. When we’re “born again” (1:23), it’s logical to picture us as “newborn babies.” Spiritual growth begins with “spiritual milk," that is, we begin to digest easier truths and practices. As we consume this nourishment, we grow, mature, and become capable learning more (1 Cor. 3:1–2). Once we’ve “tasted that the Lord is good” or “experienced the Lord’s kindness” (v. 3, quoted from Ps. 34:8), we want more of Him! It’s like asking for a sample of an ice cream flavor and realizing that what you really want is a double-dipped cone of it. Commentators note that the word “spiritual” (logikos) in verse 2 is a play on words with “word” (logos), pointing to Scripture as the source of spiritual nourishment and growth. All of this should follow our salvation—notice the word “therefore” in verse one. Because of what Christ did, and because God guarantees our eternal inheritance, and because our hope is sure, we should aim as children of God to grow up in our faith. We have no need to worry about failing, because the results are already safe in His hands. >> Are you growing in the faith? Do you crave solid food? One way to encourage growth is to spend regular time reading God’s Word (like you are doing in these devotionals). As you read and learn, you will want more!
Have you ever wondered what our glorified bodies will be like? The book of 1 Corinthians 15 tells us that they will be as different from our current bodies as plants are from the seeds they grow from. If you woke up today with aches and pains, you can be glad that our resurrected bodies will be spiritual, not natural; strong, not weak; glorious, not broken; and immortal, not subject to death (1 Cor. 15:35–57). This is part of what it means to be born again of imperishable seed (v. 23; see also John 12:23–25). Our glorified bodies, though, are in the future. What about the present? What does it mean to live by faith in the here and now? One answer is that believers should “love one another deeply, from the heart” (v. 22). This is what we’ll do if we’re truly pursuing holiness and setting our minds on hope (see October 5). The ability to do so comes from God. The redemptive sacrifice of His Son demonstrated His deep love for us and empowered us to love this way as well. Nothing in this world could possibly have accomplished that, just as nothing in this world can give us certain hope. The “seed” metaphor in today’s reading is both natural (seeds and plants) and social (the conception and birth of children). We have been spiritually reborn into a different family, a heavenly and eternal one. Who we are has been transformed and is being transformed in ways that were previously impossible. In our everyday lives, the key to this ongoing transformation is the “living and enduring word of God” (vv. 23–25). We can have absolute confidence in God’s Word because it’s...well, God’s Word—absolutely true, inerrant, and infallible. It “endures forever” (quoted from Isa. 40:6–8). It teaches and enables us to live holy and loving lives. >> Peter challenges us to show love to our fellow believers. Ask God how and to whom you can show authentic love today. Put your faith into action by extending an act of love.
Agnus Dei, or “Lamb of God,” is a well-known image of the Christian faith that has been around since at least medieval times. It features a lamb carrying a flag with the cross on it. Near this picture are often inscribed these words: “Our Lamb has conquered. Let us follow Him.” To live holy lives is the best way to honor our salvation in Christ the Lamb. To live otherwise is to dishonor the blood He shed for our redemption (vv. 18–19; see also Eph. 2:13). His blood is infinitely precious, far beyond any earthly valuables. After all, an eternal inheritance requires an eternal treasure. An imperishable life must flow from imperishable power. This was God’s plan all along (v. 20). Salvation, therefore, provides both the means and the motive for righteous living. We can live holy lives because of the power of Christ’s salvation, and we should live holy lives to honor the salvation Christ bought for us with His own blood. This is what it means for us to live as “foreigners” or “exiles” (1:1) in “reverent fear” (v. 17). Will we still sin sometimes? Yes. We know that as works-in-progress, we’ll need forgiveness many times on our sanctifying journeys. What this means is that we’ve been redeemed from an “empty way of life” (v. 18). We should no longer sin habitually, as we did when we were God’s enemies. As His children, we’re now empowered to pursue holiness through faith in Him (v. 21). Peter called Christ “a lamb without blemish or defect” (v. 19), undoubtedly alluding to the Passover Lamb (Ex. 12). His Gentile readers might not have known this reference, but he clearly expected them to be studying the Old Testament and to ask their Jewish brothers and sisters for help as needed. >> Have you ever heard the hymn, “Nothing but the Blood of Jesus”? You can easily find it online and listen to this celebration of our salvation in Christ. It would be a great addition to your devotional time today!
When we get ready for the gym or our daily workout, we put on the right clothes (or shoes) for the job. Peter uses similar language to talk about the spiritual walk. As believers, we need to have “minds that are alert and fully sober” (v. 13). This can be literally translated as “girding up the loins of your mind” (v. 13). In Peter’s day, this meant gathering up their long robes to prepare for action. Preparing our minds is the first of several commands intended to help us live out our salvation. Next, Peter says we’re to set our hope on God’s grace in Christ, which will be fully revealed when He returns (v. 13). This is the sure hope we’ve been discussing, in which our future salvation (glorification) is as certain as our past salvation (justification) and as our present salvation (sanctification). It’s as good as done! In addition to preparing our minds for action and setting our hope on grace, we’re also to be holy in all we do (vv. 14–16). Verse 16 quotes from Leviticus to remind us that God is the standard, and He’s perfectly holy. In our unsaved past, we followed ignorant and evil desires. Spiritually reborn, we can no longer conform to this way of thinking and acting. To be holy means to be set apart. We’ve joined a new family that lives entirely differently. It would be completely inappropriate to go back to our old way of life. Instead, we’re to pursue righteousness wholeheartedly! These three commands are interconnected. Preparing our minds for action includes our intellects — faith includes serious thought and reflection. Setting our hope on grace requires our imaginations because we’re envisioning something that hasn’t happened yet. Being holy involves our wills and choices. Redemption in Christ transforms our entire person! >> We invite you to take time to reflect on your “old self” versus your “new self” (2 Cor. 5:17). What has changed? Where would you be today without Christ?
What did people living in Old Testament times understand about salvation? Charles Spurgeon explained how the message of the Cross runs throughout the entire Bible: “The Old Testament and the New are one, inspired by the same Spirit and filled with the same Subject, namely, the one promised Messiah. The Prophets foretold what the Apostles reported. The Seers looked forward and the Evangelists look backward—but their eyes meet at one place—they see eye to eye and both behold the Cross.” Peter explains our salvation in biblical and historical context. The gospel is all about the “sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow” (v. 11). The Old Testament prophets looked forward to His coming, which was revealed to them by the Spirit. But although they “searched intently and with the greatest care,” their curiosity about exactly when and how this would happen was not satisfied (v. 10). Like others, they “did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance” (Heb. 11:13). It was revealed to the prophets “that they were not serving them- selves but you” (v. 12). They were providing pieces of the larger puzzle and didn’t always understand the full implications of their own words. Not even angels have been given the full picture of God’s gracious plan of redemption. With Christ’s first advent, death, and resurrection, it has now been more clearly revealed, both to Peter’s original audience and to believers today (see Rom. 16:25–27). This is encouraging for at least two reasons. First, as we’re following a Messiah who suffered and then was glorified, we, too, can expect our suffering to lead to glorification. Second, the same Spirit who worked in the Old Testament prophets works in the church today (v. 12)! >> Have you trusted Christ for your salvation and spiritual rebirth? If not, please take this important step today! To learn more, go to moodybible.org and search for “How to Know Christ.”
In the final stanza of Christina Rossetti’s poem, “A Better Resurrection,” she calls her life “A broken bowl that cannot hold / One drop of water for my soul.” She prays for it to be “Cast in the fire,” melted, and remolded “till it be / A royal cup for Him, my King: / O Jesus, drink of me.” “Refined by fire” is a biblical metaphor that shows suffering and purification (see Zech. 13:9). In today’s reading, Peter explained that our salvation fills us with “an inexpressible and glorious joy” even when we go through suffering and persecution (vv. 7–8). This truth is repeated several times from different angles: We can “greatly rejoice” despite our trials (v. 6). How is joy possible under such circumstances? Joy flows from faith in Christ (v. 8) and from the fact that our suffering occurs in the process of receiving our salvation (v. 9). The larger purpose of our suffering is that Christ will receive even more glory and honor when He returns (v. 7). In other words, salvation is not just a past moment when we trusted Christ and crossed over from death to life. It’s also a future moment when we will receive our full inheritance and Christ returns to reign. Finally, it’s also this present moment, as we “exiles” walk the road of sanctifying faith. The difficult present is just “a little while” compared to eternity (v. 6). As Paul wrote: “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Cor. 4:17). It is no wonder then that faith has a value we cannot measure (v. 7). Just as gold is refined or purified by fire, our faith is refined or purified by suffering. The certain outcome, since our faith is sustained by God, will be faith’s “proven genuineness.” >> Friends, whatever you’re going through today, we invite you to draw near to God in humble, joyful faith. Know that His promises are true, and our hope is certain!
Some years ago, my wife and I decided to prepare a will. We wanted to know our children would be cared for in the event of our untimely deaths. If our lives unfold as normal, they will inherit whatever we leave behind. Making a will is the responsible thing to do, yet the things we pass on through it are only material and temporary. By contrast, the inheritance described in Peter’s letter is eternal and indestructible! Peter praises God for the gift of our salvation using word pictures. The first is of a “new birth into a living hope” (v. 3). Our “old birth,” so to speak, was hopeless. As humans, we are in bondage to sin and death. But through faith in Christ, we can be spiritually reborn (John 3:3–8). Christ is our Living Hope! The second picture of salvation is of an eternal inheritance (v. 4). Unlike earthly treasures, it “can never perish, spoil or fade” (see Matt 6:19–21). Although it’s not fully ours yet, God is keeping it safe in heaven for us. The Holy Spirit is our deposit or promise of inheritance (Eph. 1:13–14). In the meantime, we’re “shielded by God’s power” (v. 5). This does not keep us from trouble or suffering, but we will never lose the inheritance. In other words, God’s power sustains believers’ faith, and His work is never unsuccessful. Our hope is therefore not wishful thinking, but a God-guaranteed certainty. We call this certainty “perseverance” or “assurance of salvation.” These two pictures are connected: Through spiritual rebirth, we’ve been adopted into a new family, and as family members we have a new inheritance. Why did God do this? >> What do you want to leave behind? When we think of end-of-life planning, we think about making a will (which is an act of responsible and loving stewardship). But you should also consider your spiritual legacy. What are you doing today to ensure that those you love know Jesus?
Imagine going to your mailbox. Among the bills and advertisements, you find a special letter written by Peter, a friend and follower of Jesus. Peter was one of the first witnesses to the Resurrection and preached a powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost. He also wrote two epistles (letters) to believers scattered throughout western Asia. Knowing that Peter is the author should encourage us. Although he stumbled badly, denying Christ three times (Mark 14:27–31, 66–72), Peter had been fully restored and forgiven (John 21:15–19) by Christ. He went on to become a key leader in the early church, as we see in the book of Acts. God even chose this flawed disciple to write two books of the New Testament! Peter’s first epistle was probably written from Rome—symbolically referred to as “Babylon” (5:13)—in about 64 A.D. The original audience would have included both Jewish and Gentile believers. He addressed these believers as “exiles,” a word which has been translated “strangers” and “pilgrims,” in part because as believers our ultimate citizenship is in heaven (v. 1; Phil. 3:20). Here we are introduced to the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (v. 2). The readers of this letter, including us, have been chosen by the Father and are undergoing the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. We have been sprinkled with Christ’s blood, an image of atonement that indicates we are called to obey Him. Like other New Testament epistles, it begins with a salutation and ends with personal greetings. Doctrine is featured early in the letter, followed by how to put that doctrine into practice. We will learn about salvation, suffering, standing firm, holiness, submission, hope, and the return of Christ. >> As a special challenge, try listening to the entire book of 1 Peter using an audio Bible. Doing so takes less than 20 minutes! Imagine that you just received this letter in the mailbox and Peter is speaking directly to you.
Some people don’t like to talk about the end of the world—it’s too depressing. And they’re right. The Bible does not teach that things will get better and better. It says just the opposite. But the biblical perspective isn’t pessimistic. It is hopeful because it teaches that, at the end, God will usher in a new world. Those of us who are waiting for the new heaven and new earth may get impatient. Indeed, in today’s passage, Peter warns that unbelievers will misinterpret the wait as proof that God does not exist (vv. 3–4). But what feels like a delay is evidence that God’s timing is vastly different from ours (v. 8). More importantly, it is a sign of God’s patience. In Scripture “the day of the Lord” is a frequent designation for a time of judgment (see Isa. 13:6, 9; Ezek. 30:3; Joel 1:15). In verse 10 it refers to the final judgment, which will be ushered in by Christ’s return. Following will be the creation of a new heaven and a new earth. Peter’s outlook is not pessimistic. He doesn’t say, since you can’t improve the situation, don’t bother to do anything. His message is the opposite. Since the end will come this way, we are to “make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him” (v. 14). Just as Jesus is the only hope for the world to come, He is the only hope we have for being found spotless and blameless before God. If God does not seem to be in a hurry to wrap things up, it is because He is providing space for those who have not yet turned to Christ to repent and believe. >> In these days, when right and wrong are often confused, we must continue to point people to Jesus. Only Jesus is the answer to humanity’s problem with sin and our only hope for righteousness. If you have not done so already, turn to Him in faith today.
The book Waiting for the End of the World by Richard Ross features photographs of fallout shelters. In the introduction, Ross calls these structures “the architecture of the end of the world.” The shelters reflect a spirit of optimism (our hope for survival). But they also show our tendency to live in denial (choosing to ignore the complete devastation that will follow such an incident). Today many people are living in denial by ignoring the coming of divine judgment. Hebrews 9:27 observes, “People are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” Verse 28 speaks of a salvation that is yet to come. That may seem like a contradiction, since we usually think of salvation in the past tense. But it is not. Hebrews 9:23–27 describes a salvation that has already been accomplished on our behalf. These verses show the difference between the Old Testament sacrifices and the “once for all” offering of Jesus Christ (v. 26). Jesus entered the true tabernacle in heaven, not an earthly copy (vv. 11, 24). Instead of offering the blood of bulls, Jesus offered His own blood which obtained eternal redemption (v. 12). Instead of merely offering ceremonial cleansing, Jesus’ blood cleansed the conscience (vv. 13–14). Clearly, Jesus offered a “better” sacrifice (v. 23). Jesus did not need to be sacrificed repeatedly (v. 25). The many different sacrifices required by the Law of Moses did not have the power to take away sin. We can be thankful that “Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many” (v. 28). >> You may still be wondering: Why does the writer speak of salvation in the future tense in verse 28? It is because we, who have been saved by Christ’s sacrifice, are still waiting for His return and the final judgment. Jesus will “bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”
I’ve heard it said that Christians are not perfect, only forgiven. It is true. Because we are not perfect, we all sometimes need help. In Galatians 2:11–21, Paul describes a time when he confronted Peter (called Cephas) about his hypocritical behavior toward Gentile Christians. Even spiritual giants need correction. In today’s passage, Paul offers guidance for restoring a Christian who was “caught in a sin” (v. 1). The Greek text implies someone who was taken by surprise. It may suggest that the person being corrected did not yet recognize that what they were doing was a sin. Before they could be restored, someone had to point out the problem. Helping others be accountable is one aspect of the church’s larger obligation to “carry each other’s burdens” (v. 2). This is not a matter of Christians policing one another. It is about showing love. However, we should not approach this ministry of restoration with the sort of hypervigilance that pounces on every weakness. We do not need to confront others for every little mistake they make. How, then, should we approach someone who has been overtaken by a sin? Here are some questions that can help you plan your approach: Is it a deliberate sin, or were they taken by surprise? What is my motive in approaching them about it? Has anyone else been affected? What do they need to know or do in order to make a recovery? What Scriptures will be of help to them? >> Confronting sin requires speaking the truth with love, gentleness, and respect. If you know a fellow believer who is caught in sin, ask God to provide the right time and words to speak to them. The key to overcoming sin is to rely on the Spirit of God (vv. 7–9). Paul calls the Holy Spirit a “law” that sets us free (Rom. 8:2).
Have you ever been confused about the relationship between God’s grace and our effort in the Christian life? Here is the key: Grace is incompatible with earning, not with effort. Hebrews 12:14 speaks about effort: “make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy.” Being holy is not automatic, but it also does not just mean trying hard. We need the presence of God’s grace. Today’s reading contrasts those who come to God through Jesus Christ with those who draw near under the Law of Moses. In verse 20, we learn that those who heard the Law on Mount Sinai “could not bear what was commanded.” However, verses 22–24 say that those who responded to the gospel have come to the heavenly Jerusalem (not Sinai). There they find the assembly of angels and the church of the firstborn “whose names are written in heaven” (v. 23). They also come to God Himself and to Jesus, their mediator. By these images, the writer is showing that the Law could only take us so far (to Sinai), but grace which comes to us through Jesus Christ can take us where the Law could not (to God). The Law points us to God, but grace brings us into His presence. The gospel speaks a “better word” that must not be ignored (v. 24). The holiness that the writer urges Christians to practice is energized by grace. It begins with grace and is carried out through grace. Second Peter 3:14 echoes this theme when it tells us to “make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him.” The only way we can be blameless before God is to be found in Christ. Christ is our righteousness. >> Verse 25 says: “See to that you don’t refuse him who speaks.” Come to Jesus, and He will make you holy. When you say yes to Jesus, you are saying yes to God. Refuse Him, and you will regret it forever.
My friend James used to be a personal trainer. He often posts pictures on social media of himself working out. Even when he’s working hard, he is usually smiling. If most of us were in his place, we probably wouldn’t be. Training takes discipline, and discipline can be uncomfortable. In today’s reading, the author of the book of Hebrews compares an athlete’s experience to that of Christ’s disciples. He notes that there are two kinds of discipline involved for both. One is the personal discipline required to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (v. 1). This is a course set for us by God. He knows the difficulties we experience and has permitted them to enter our lives for our good. An athlete endures the discomfort of training to reach a desired goal. Jesus endured the cross “for the joy that was set before him” (v. 2). We must do the same so that we do not lose heart and give up (v. 3). The other type of discipline is corrective. This is the sort of training a parent does with their child (vv. 5–6). In both cases, the experience often comes in the form of hardship (v. 7). We should not think that God has abandoned us when difficulties enter our lives. The opposite is the case. We are training “for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness” (v. 10). God Himself is our personal trainer. Even better, God is our loving Father. His only goal is to give us life and make us more like His Son Jesus Christ. We have nothing to fear from Him. The application of verses 12–13 employs figurative language that encourages us to look at our hardships and struggles differently. We must endure hardship with an eye on God. >> How do you see your circumstances? Can you discern the hand of God in them? As we discover things about ourselves that need to be changed, we must submit to His discipline.
According to family legend, my dad got expelled from kindergarten. As the story goes, he snapped some other child’s bow tie. Kindergarten teachers emphasize fundamental lessons that set the stage for further learning, teaching basics like how to follow directions and how to get along with others. The Christian faith has basics too. The author of Hebrews mentions a few of them in verses 1–2: repentance, faith, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. A couple of the items may not seem that basic. Why does he mean by “cleansing rites” and “laying on of hands”? The Greek term translated cleansing rites is the word for baptism, but in the plural. The writer may be referring to water baptism and the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Or perhaps he is speaking of cleansing from sin. The practice of laying on of hands was associated with the ministry of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:18). In general, these fundamentals have to do with salvation by faith in Christ and the role of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life. Verses 4–8 have troubled many readers. But their warning about the danger of turning away from these basic truths is meant to disturb. He seems to be describing the marks of false faith. A lack of spiritual progress is a cause for concern. The fact that we have no interest in growing in our faith may be a signal that we have no real faith to begin with. We should note, however, that where his readers are concerned, the writer is “convinced of better things” (v. 9). God’s grace produces growth. When that is not the case, something is wrong. Often, however, it is because we have grown lazy (vv. 11–12). >> Salvation is a gift of grace. We do not get it through our own effort. Spiritual growth is a gift also, but it does require a measure of cooperation from us. To grow spiritually requires both diligence and study.
My friend Ann has marks in her kitchen doorway. They measure the changing heights of her children and grandchildren through the years. The names and dates next to the marks trace their progress. While we can’t measure our spiritual growth on a door frame, it is a lot like physical growth. It should increase with time, but that isn’t always the case. Some believers seem stunted in their spiritual development. The believers to whom the book of Hebrews was written are a case in point. In verse 12 the author complains that they should have been teachers by this time. Instead, they still needed someone to go over the spiritual ABCs. Their spiritual immaturity kept them from seeing important aspects of Christ’s ministry. For example, they needed to know that Jesus was both their sacrifice for sin and their High Priest (vv. 1–4). By taking on a human nature, He became “subject to weakness” (v. 2). Unlike the earthly priests of the Law of Moses, Jesus did not have to offer sacrifices for Himself. He was truly human, but sinless. Because Jesus shared the frailty of our humanity, He “became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him” (v. 9). The writer compares Jesus to the mysterious Old Testament figure Melchizedek, whose name meant King of Salem or King of Peace. He is mentioned in Genesis 14:18–20 and Psalm 110:4, where he seems to be a picture of the Messiah. The writer will say more about him in Hebrews 7, but here he merely whets their appetite and observes that their immaturity will make it hard for them to understand what he means. According to verse 11, their main problem was that they had stopped trying to understand. When the implications of what we hear make us uncomfortable, sometimes we stop listening. >> Are you looking for a chance to go deeper in your faith? Check out the book titles on the Moody Publishers webpage, moodypublishers.com. Several are written by Today in the Word authors!
Parents often worry about the effect peer pressure will have on their children. At some point, nearly every child has explained their behavior by shifting the blame to others: “But they told me to do it!” Their parents will often respond, “If someone told you to jump off a cliff, would you do that too?” If we were honest, answer might be “yes.” In 1 Corinthians 15:33, Paul warns: “Bad company corrupts good character.” (Here Paul was quoting a Greek playwright Menander). The apostle Paul applies the same principle in today’s passage. In verse 14, Paul urges Timothy to warn God’s people “against quarreling about words.” In verse 16 he further describes this kind of speech as “godless chatter.” It’s not only the behavior of others that can influence us but also their words. Like bad company, bad teaching also corrupts. To clarify the kind of teaching he has in mind, the apostle offers a concrete example in verses 17–18. Although their names are unfamiliar to us, Paul gives us an idea of what they taught. Hymenaeus and Philetus seem to have taught that the resurrection was only spiritual and that the resurrection of believers had already happened. Perhaps they were influenced by a philosophy that came to be known as Gnosticism, a view that saw no spiritual value in the physical body. Some Gnostic teachers claimed that it didn’t matter what one did in the body. One of the dangers of false teaching is that it masquerades as truth. Those who promote it claim to represent Christ, often by promising to reveal new or secret truths. They are often argumentative (v. 23). >> Paul’s counsel to Timothy is simple and is good advice for us today. Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Associate with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. Don’t get caught up in pointless arguments. Patiently teach the truth.
A favorite hymn proclaims that a Christian is “only a sinner saved by grace.” We often associate grace with the beginning of our Christian experience. But today’s passage reveals that grace has an important role throughout our Christian life. We begin, continue, and finish the Christian life by grace. In 2 Timothy 2:1 Paul urges Timothy to “be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” The emphasis here is on grace. This strength comes from the grace that can only be found in Christ. It is a grace that is active in the life of the believers, empowering them to live the Christian life. But it is also the grace spoken of in God’s Word. For this reason, the apostle tells Timothy to entrust the things he has heard from Paul to those who will be able to teach these same truths to others. One of the ways we grow in grace is by staying in the Word. Our experience of God’s grace is further strengthened by practice. Paul offers three analogies in verses 3–7 to show what he means. A Christian who remains strong in grace is like a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. The athlete must compete according to the rules to win. The soldier must stay free from civilian entanglements to be available to those in command. The farmer plants to reap a harvest. These illustrations underscore the need for our Christian practice to be marked by obedience, discipline, and hope. Paul’s analogy of the farmer may also imply that, since Timothy’s message promises grace, his life should also show evidence of the strength of that grace. Allegiance to Christ often brings difficulties (vv. 9–10). Paul was willing to endure such things so that others might know this grace. >> Verses 11–13 contain a poem that helped the early Christians remember what they believed. This is an excellent passage to commit to memory. Spend the next few days reading those verses.
In warfare, a tactical withdrawal is when an army retreats while continuing to engage the enemy. Sometimes it is a sign that the retreating army is outmatched. But in the spiritual warfare of the Christian life, it is an offensive measure. We defeat the enemy by fleeing from him and pursuing God instead. The “all this” that Paul tells Timothy to flee is described in verses 4–10. Although the internet hadn’t been invented yet, Paul’s list sounds uncomfortably like much of what we read on social media! It includes spiritual pride, frivolous spiritual controversies, envy, discord, malicious talk, evil suspicion, irritability, and greed. Instead, Paul urged Timothy to “pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness” (v. 11). This is a strategic withdrawal during which Timothy is to fight the “good fight of the faith” (v. 12). It is a battle carried out by holding fast to the truth both in word and in action. We tend to think of fighting for the truth as primarily a battle of words. The apostle makes it clear that it is also a matter of living out the truth. “The apostle gives us no teaching on holiness and how to attain it,” John Stott observes. “We are simply to run from evil as we run from danger, and to run after goodness as we run after success.” When Paul tells Timothy to “take hold of eternal life,” he is not talking about earning but acting in faith. Timothy is to act in accordance with his confession of faith. The language of confession is probably an allusion to baptism, which 1 Peter 3:21 calls “the pledge of a clear conscience toward God.” The truth that baptism symbolizes is that we have been cleansed from sin by Christ’s death and given new life by His resurrection. >> How do we pursue righteousness? The key is to keep your eyes on Jesus Christ. We confess Christ by agreeing with Jesus’ testimony about Himself. He is our King and Savior.
If you’ve ever tried to declutter your home, you know how hard it is! As you go through each item, trying to decide whether to keep it, give it away, or discard it, you realize how attached you are to physical belongings. We like to hang on to what we value. But in today’s passage, the apostle Paul describes some things he used to consider important but now regarded worthless. These were not pictures or possessions but the confidence he once had in his religious heritage and his track record in keeping God’s Law. Paul paints a before and after picture for us in these verses that reveals a sharp contrast. Before Christ, he put his confidence in what he calls “the flesh” (v. 3). Paul uses this word in several different ways in his writings. Here it stands for Paul’s efforts to be righteous apart from Jesus Christ. He calls this “a righteousness of my own that comes from the law.” Its opposite is “the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith” (v. 9). This is what Paul means when he talks about having faith in Christ. Those who place their faith in Jesus depend not on their own righteousness, but the righteousness that comes from God. It can only be received as a gift; we cannot earn it. In this way, those who know Christ also know “the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings” (v. 10). The power of Christ’s resurrection granted by the Holy Spirit enables us to “put to death the misdeeds of the body” (Rom. 8:13). Paul does not say that Christians are perfect. Instead, they are being perfected through the Cross and the power of Christ’s resurrection. >> What are you depending on for righteousness? Paul says that anything other than Christ is garbage. Let it go! Only Jesus can make you righteous. He alone can give you victory over sin.
When David was about to face the giant Goliath, King Saul gave him a tunic, a coat of armor, and a bronze helmet. He also gave David a sword. But the king’s armor was of no use to David. Instead, he faced the enemy with five smooth stones and a sling (1 Sam. 17:40). David’s real defense was the power of God (1 Sam. 17:45). In the same way, a Christian does not battle against flesh and blood but “the devil’s schemes” (Eph. 6:11). We face a spiritual enemy who tries to undermine our confidence in God and His Word. This is the same strategy he employed in the Garden of Eden. Satan asked Eve: “Did God really say...?” (Gen. 3:1). In view of this, it is no surprise to find that the first item of the believer’s armor that Paul mentions is the “belt of truth” (Eph. 6:14). There is also “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (v. 17). God’s Word is both a defensive and an offensive weapon in the spiritual struggle. Knowing God’s truth protects us from the deceitful schemes of the enemy, so we can recognize Satan’s lies and distortions. Jesus used the Word of God both defensively and offensively when Satan tempted Him in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1–11). The breastplate protects the heart and consists of righteousness that is not our own but comes from Jesus Christ (Eph. 6:14). Knowledge of the gospel and a readiness to share it prepares us for action (v. 15). Faith, described as a shield, is the necessary companion to the truth. It is not enough to know what God has said. We must believe and rely upon it (v. 16). >> Prayer is not just one part of your Christian life, it is essential! The spiritual battle is carried out through prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you frame your thoughts. Pray for your own needs and for family and friends as well.
When you make a significant purchase, like buying a home or a car, the seller and lender will check your credit score. They want to see if you are secure enough financially to cover the repayment of the loan. If your application is successful, you will be offered a line of credit. The bank or lender will supply the needed funds so you can enjoy that expensive item right away In a comparable way, we draw on spiritual credit when it comes to Christ’s righteousness. Jesus has already provided all the righteousness that is necessary to be accepted by God. However, some of the Galatian believers had begun to think that what Christ had done was not enough. They thought that even though God had begun the work, it was their responsibility to finish it. This philosophy implied that Christ’s sacrifice wasn’t enough! In response, Paul called them foolish and asked, “After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?” (v. 3). The apostle bluntly warns those who try to be righteous based on their own effort that they will fall short. God’s Law requires more than a good track record from us. Righteousness demands perfect obedience on all points at all times. Although God’s Law is righteous, holy, and good, its standard is not based on faith but on performance (v. 10; see also Rom. 7:12). Faith, on the other hand, operates on the principle of inheritance. It draws on the account reserved for us by Jesus Christ. >> We can never have a high enough “credit score” to earn our salvation. We gain access to that inheritance by faith. The proof of its existence is the living presence of the Holy Spirit who dwells “in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come” (2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5). This inheritance cannot be counted in dollars and cents. It is the righteousness of Christ.
It can be unnerving when your boss unexpectedly asks to meet with you. In the same way, a student gets nervous when called into the principal’s office, and children know what it means when their parent warns, “Wait until your father (or mother) gets home!” Maybe you feel the same way as we read about the inevitability of God’s judgment in verse 10. For Paul, this reminder motivated him to keep proclaiming the gospel. According to verse 11, it is an awareness of “what it is to fear the Lord.” Paul had a first- hand encounter with this fear when Jesus appeared to Him on the road to Damascus in a blaze of light and spoke with a voice like thunder (Acts 9:3–6). Yet Paul’s primary motivation was not guilt or even fear of failure in his efforts to persuade others to believe the gospel. He was so moved by the love Christ demonstrated by giving His life. Paul did not see this sacrifice as a moral example but something far more powerful. He was “convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died” (2 Cor. 5:14). Jesus’ death fundamentally changes those who believe in a way that makes it possible to “no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (v. 15). As a result of Christ’s sacrifice, the believer becomes “a new creation” (v. 17). The old order with its bondage to sin has passed away. A new order has begun in which those who were once God’s enemies are now reconciled and are eager to share the message of reconciliation. >> What is the message of reconciliation? It is the gospel: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (v. 21). Once we have exchanged our sin for the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ, we do not need to be afraid of judgment.
When a teacher punishes the entire class for something one student did, it seems unfair to us. We believe that only the guilty should be punished. Because of this, some people object to the Bible’s teaching that “sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people” (Rom. 5:12). What they miss is the critical detail mentioned in the last part of the verse: “because all sinned.” The Bible’s teaching is not merely that we were declared sinners because Adam sinned. It is that we sinned in Adam. Adam stood in our place, and we were so identified with him that his sin became our sin. It might also be said that as a true representative, Adam did what we would have done if we had been there in person. God’s decision to reckon all people to be sinners based on Adam’s disobedience was not ultimately about assigning guilt. The end game was redemption. The fact that guilt passed on to everyone by the disobedience of one person meant that righteousness could also come to all through one person. In this way, Adam became “a pattern of the one to come” (v. 14). By allowing Adam’s sin to pass on to all humanity, God was setting up an exchange. It would be one for one. Adam’s sin for Christ’s righteousness. They both serve the same function as representatives but with opposite effects. The result of Jesus’ “one righteous act” far surpasses the effect of Adam’s sin (v. 18). Not only do the many receive righteousness through the one, but through “God’s abundant provision of grace” and “the gift of righteousness” they can “reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!” (v. 17). >> Every person must choose between the two. We can either remain in death or choose the gift of life that comes only through Jesus Christ. Which is true of you? Have you chosen life or death?
Some people think that gaining God’s forgiveness will happen because of something we say or do. But that is not true. Receiving forgiveness does not depend on us, but only upon Jesus Christ. Echoing the first chapter of his Gospel, John reminds us that Jesus “was from the beginning” (v. 1). God alone can forgive sins, and this is a subtle reminder that Jesus is God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14; see also Mark 2:6–12). Confessing our sin is necessary because sin is the opposite of all that God is, just as darkness is the opposite of light. When we claim to be followers of Jesus but are living a sinful life, we are not living out the truth of what we believe (v. 6). When we sin after we have trusted in Christ, that sin does not nullify the forgiveness and righteousness we have received from Him. But continuing in sin is inconsistent with the life Christ provides. As we “walk in the light,” we become more and more aware of the aspects of our life and thinking that need to change. People often become more aware of their sin after they have begun to follow Christ than they were before they believed (v. 8). God does not simply close His eyes to our sin or lower His standard when we confess. Instead, God can forgive us because Jesus satisfied all the demands of righteousness and paid the penalty for sin with His own blood. In this way, God is both “just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26). >> Don’t wait for sins to stack up before you confess them. As soon as a sin comes to mind, admit your guilt and ask God to forgive you because of what Jesus Christ has done. You do not need a long and elaborate prayer. It is enough for you to say, “God forgive me for Jesus’ sake.”
Even though Jesus advised His disciples to “watch and pray,” they slept and fell into temptation. We can be the same way. Sometimes we blow it. We may want to ignore our failure or explain it away. Shame and guilt make us feel like avoiding God, but the better response is to do the opposite. We are told to confess our failure to God. What does that look like? We have a model of confession in today’s passage. We begin with a conviction that God will forgive their sins (v. 1). We focus our hearts toward God in response to His conviction (vv. 2–3). Instead of denying guilt, we admit ownership of our sin. In verse 5, David calls it “my sin,” “my iniquity,” “my transgression.” It may seem counterintuitive, but the habit of confessing sin is a mark of those who are “faithful” to God. The Hebrew word for “faithful” in verse 6 can also be translated “godly.” David is not changing the subject when he speaks of God’s protection in verse 7. This is the language of salvation. God alone can rescue us from our sin. After dealing with his own sin, David offers spiritual counsel to others. Only those who know their sin and take it to God are truly able to help others overcome sin. As Jesus put it in Matthew 7:5, if you want to help someone else overcome their sin, you must first “take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” Likewise, Paul urges those “who live by the Spirit” to gently restore those who are caught in a sin” (Gal. 6:1). >> We are sometimes reluctant to confess our sins to God because it makes us feel like a failure. In reality, confession is an expression of faith. When we confess, we will find that the Lord’s “unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him” (v. 10).
Have you ever fallen asleep during church? Most of us will probably admit that we’ve had moments where we nodded off or our mind drifted to what we were doing later in the day. It’s not that we weren’t interested in the sermon or didn’t like the pastor, we just lost focus on what was being said. Jesus’ disciples slept too but not during a sermon. They slept while Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Jesus urged the disciples to pray with Him (v. 38). He described this kind of prayer as keeping “watch.” The Greek word means to be alert or awake. It was a metaphor the Bible uses to describe what it means to be on guard. When Jesus came back and found the disciples sleeping, He was disappointed but not for His own sake. He told them, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation” (v. 41). As Jesus describes it in these verses, prayer can be a preventive measure against temptation. The best strategy for defeating temptation is not to be tempted in the first place. Apparently, there are some forms of temptation we may avoid simply by praying. Jesus’ command to watch and pray indicates that prayer is an effective strategy for dealing with temptation. Scripture says when Eve was tempted in the Garden, she focused on what was forbidden. Genesis 3:6 says when she “saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it.” Prayer can redirect our attention from our sinful desire to God. Those who pray call upon the Holy Spirit for the strength to resist. >> Take a few minutes to pray. Ask God to keep you from being distracted or sleepy in prayer and ask Him to protect you from falling into temptation. If there are areas where you feel especially vulnerable, ask for His help.
In 1987, Harper’s Magazine invited seven ad agencies to create a humorous campaign designed to rehabilitate the reputation of the seven deadly sins. The ad for lust pictured two silent film stars in a passionate embrace. The headline read, “Any sin that’s enabled us to survive war, death, pestilence, and famine can’t be called deadly.” The ad’s tagline read, “Lust, where would we be without it?” The modern view of sin is generally light-hearted. Most people accept sin as a fact of life, so they don’t worry much about it. The Bible’s view is quite different. Scripture portrays sin as a deadly trap. In 1 Corinthians 10:1–13, the apostle Paul points to Israel’s history to show the seriousness of sin. Paul compares Israel’s experiences with Moses to baptism and communion, the two rites of the Christian church. The Israelites were protected by the cloud, passed through the sea, and drank from the rock. But these miraculous things did not shield them from the consequences of their disobedience. Paul soberly warns, “God was not pleased with most of them” (v. 5). According to the apostle, their severe experience of divine discipline should be taken as a warning. Sin is no light matter. We should not toy with it. The temptations we face are common to all. We can never say nobody else has ever been tempted like us. But, since we are no longer slaves to sin, we do not need to fall into its trap. God will not permit us to be tempted beyond the point of endurance and will always provide a way out (v. 13). Why, then, do we sometimes give in to temptation? Because we choose to do so. >> Temptations may be an inevitable part of the Christian life, but disobedience is not. One way to deal with temptation is to pause. When temptation strikes, count to ten and remind yourself that you do not have to yield.
“No man knows how bad he is till he has tried very hard to be good,” author and theologian C. S. Lewis observed. Temptation is a common experience for all Christians. Being dead to sin does not mean the impulse to sin has died within us. The question is not whether we will be tempted someday but when we will be tempted and how we will respond. The temptation to sin is as likely to spring from within as it is from without. According to James, “each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed” (v. 14). Sin may still appeal to those who, in Christ, have died to sin. Yet James assures us that God will never be a source of temptation. Sin holds no appeal for God, and He does not tempt anyone (v. 13). We never have to wonder whether it is God’s will for us to sin. The answer is always no. God does, however, allow believers to face trials (v. 2). Although the same Greek root appears in both words, James makes it clear that these trials arise from different sources. One reason is for our strengthening. But the appeal to sin does not come from Him. New Testament scholar Douglas Moo observes that when we think of trials, “we should probably think both of the difficulties that are common to all people as well as the specific adversities that Christians must face as a result of their faith.” As Christians, we experience the same troubles in life that everyone else does. But there are also unique challenges that come to us because we follow Christ. God uses the pressure of these difficult circumstances to transform our character and build our faith (v. 4). >> Trials and temptations are not the same thing. In addition, they call for two very different responses. When you face trials, you should rejoice. When you face the temptation to sin, you should run.
Can a murderer follow Jesus? How about a thief? The answer is yes. We can all be thankful that our past does not determine what we can become in Christ. Paul rejoiced because Jesus considered him “trustworthy” and appointed him as His messenger. But this was not because of Paul’s past. Prior to Paul’s conversion, he had been a blasphemer, persecutor, and a violent man (v. 13). The Greek term that the NIV translates violent is a word that means to be insolent or aggressive. Acts 8:3 says he “began to destroy the church.” Paul’s behavior toward Christians prior to his faith in Christ amounted to murder. All Christians have sins in their past, and often these include serious sins. In 1 Corinthians 6:9–10, Paul warns that those who are sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, homosexuals, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, slanderers, and swindlers will not inherit the kingdom of God. Yet in the next verse he declares: “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Cor. 6:11). Paul’s life is a model for those whose past sins seem unforgivable. Paul considered himself “the worst of sinners,” but he became an example to those who would believe in Christ and receive eternal life (1 Tim. 1:16). Your past does not determine whether you can become a Christian. If God accepted the worst of sinners, He will accept you if you believe in Christ. Your past also does not determine what kind of Christian you will be. The same grace that made Paul a trustworthy servant of the Lord is available to us today. Anybody who gives themselves without reservation to Christ can live beyond their past. >> Do you have regrets about your past? Offer them to Christ by offering yourself to Him. It does not matter what you were. All that matters is what He makes you.
In today’s culture, no area of freedom seems quite as important as that of our physical bodies. People argue for abortion rights, the legalization of marijuana and other drugs, various changing views of sexuality, and even euthanasia. They reason that if this is my body, I should be able to do whatever I want with it. The Corinthian culture in Paul’s day seemed to have a similar view. Their slogan was “I have the right to do anything” (1 Cor. 6:12). Like us, they misinterpreted Paul’s teaching that the Law no longer binds those who are in Christ. The apostle clarified that the freedom of the Christian does not mean we can do anything we want. In fact, even some things that might be allowable can become a source of bondage. The Corinthian’s view of freedom was also shaped by a philosophical view that considered the physical body spiritually unimportant. This view valued the spirit, but the body was not considered essential. Consequently, some lived by the slogan, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food” (v. 13). The apostle corrected this false view by noting that God has authority over the body and the soul. What we do with our bodies matters. The body was meant for the Lord (v. 13). God purchased us through Christ’s blood. Therefore, our bodies are God’s property. Paul’s application is especially relevant today. We are told to flee sexual immorality. Why? Because our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, sexual immorality is a sin against God. It is also a sin against ourselves, because Christ’s work redeems both our body and soul. We’ve been bought with a price. We are not free to do whatever we please with our bodies. Every part of us belongs to God. >> How will you honor God with your body today? Ask God to show you any way you are failing to acknowledge that your body belongs to Him. What might He be asking you to do or change?
This past February, Jennifer Sey, the global brand president of Levi’s, quit her job and refused to accept a million-dollar severance package. “More than 20 years ago I joined Levi’s,” Sey explained in a Twitter post. “I quit so I could be free.” For Sey, freedom meant speaking out on issues that were important to her without having the approval of her employer. Sey’s decision illustrates a common assumption about freedom. Most of us think of freedom as the liberty to do as we please. Today’s passage describes another dimension of freedom. It is the liberty not to do something that we might otherwise do. The freedom to which Paul refers to in verse 13 is freedom from the Law, something he describes as “a yoke of slavery” in verse 1. Although Christ has freed the believer from the bondage of the Law, that does not mean we are free to do anything. This freedom is not an excuse to “indulge the flesh” (v. 13). Flesh in this verse does not refer to the skin that covers our bodies, but the part of our nature that is opposed to God. The natural inclination of our flesh and the presence of God often result in an internal conflict (v. 17). The freedom Paul celebrates in today’s passage is the ability to choose the way of the Spirit. In essence, this freedom says “no” to the flesh’s impulses and says “yes” to God. The difference between these two ways are described in verses 19–26. It shouldn’t surprise us that the way of the flesh looks like the lifestyle of someone who doesn’t care what God thinks. The alternative is a life marked by the two great commandments Jesus identified (Matt. 22:34–40). >> How do we live a life marked by true freedom? Paul says the secret is to live in God’s power. Day by day, our goal is to “keep in step with the Spirit” (v. 25).
Does following Jesus mean following a list of dos and don’ts? The apostle Paul, writing to the Christians in Ephesus, urged them “to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Eph. 4:11). He then gives some clear instructions for Christian living. As Paul explained, it was much more than just checking off items on a spiritual “to-do list.” Today’s passage contrasts the Ephesian believers’ life before they knew Christ with how they now lived. “What is immediately worthy of note is the apostle’s emphasis on the intellectual factor in everybody’s way of life,” John Stott observes. “While describing pagans, he draws attention to the futility of their thinking, adds that they are darkened in their understanding and attributes their alienation from God to the ignorance that is in them.” As Christ followers, the Ephesians had to learn to think differently. The Christian way of life that Paul outlines in verses 22–24 flows out of three critical resolutions. First, a believer determines to put off the old self (v. 22). When we follow Christ, we resolve to change. Second, we learn to think differently (v. 23). We learn how Christ expects His followers to live, but it isn’t just up to us to do the work. This renewal is done in us by God’s Spirit. Third, a believer must take steps to put this new learning into practice. Verse 24 characterizes this as putting on “the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” We learn more about what this new self looks like in verses 25–32. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, but it is a good starting point. >> Paul is not simply swapping out the old law for a new one. The believer becomes a “new self, created to be like God” (v. 24). The Christian life is not just a matter of dos and don’ts. When we are in Christ, we learn to think differently.
Our sin makes us the walking dead. And the practice of sin ultimately leads to physical and spiritual death (Rom. 6:23). If this is true, how can we possibly live a holy life? Today’s text describes a different kind of death when it speaks of our union with Christ (v. 5). What did Paul mean? First, dying to our sin is a matter of faith. We count on Jesus’ death and resurrection to change our relationship to sin. By depending on Christ’s death, we see ourselves as dead to sin and alive to God. This does not mean that we have lost the capacity to sin or even that sin no longer has any appeal. Instead, it means that we no longer have to live as slaves to sin (vv. 6–7). Secondly, when we realize that we are dead to sin, we can make a conscious choice to live in the power that God provides through His Holy Spirit. Those who see themselves as alive to God are not trying to obey in their own strength. Instead, through the Spirit’s power, we refuse to obey sin’s evil desires, which is a kind of death (v. 12). We offer ourselves to God and see our body as an instrument of righteousness (v. 13). This is an act of faith as much as it is an exercise of the will. The righteous life Paul describes is not just about living up to a standard. It means living out the life that Jesus Christ has imparted to us. While we were once dead, we now live for God by living in Christ. His life gives us power over sin. >> What does it mean to be dead to sin and alive to God? What will change about your life as you consider yourself dead to sin? How does that impact your obedience?
When I was in graduate school, one of my professors would give tests that nobody could pass. Imagine our dismay when he told us at the beginning of the semester that it would be impossible for anyone to score 100 percent on his exams! We may feel the same way as we read what Paul says about the Law of God. But the apostle’s intent was not to discourage us but to point us in a different direction. There is a righteousness from God that is “apart from the law” (v. 21). It is righteousness that is “given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (v. 22). We can see the wisdom of God in holding all of humanity to a standard that neither the religious nor the irreligious can meet. Since the Law renders everyone guilty, anyone who believes will be “justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (v. 24). This is not a case of God resorting to the class curve. It is a matter of substitution. Jesus came to be “a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood” (v. 25). His death paid the penalty for our sin, and His life met God’s perfect standard for righteousness. Through Christ, God makes sinners righteous without compromising His holiness. He can be both “just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus” (v. 26). Once we have been made righ- teous in this way, we have no grounds for boasting. Righteousness is not our accomplishment. Nor do we have any reason to fear God’s Law or view it with contempt. We uphold the Law through our faith in Jesus Christ (v. 31). >> Have you accepted God’s diagnosis of your spiritual condition? If you accept that you are a sinner, you need to accept His remedy as well. Look to Jesus for forgiveness and for righteousness. Lord,
Some years ago, I visited the doctor to hear the results of some routine tests. I was expecting a good report. Instead, he told me I had a form of cancer. As you might imagine, I was upset. But then, much to my relief, he said the cancer was treatable and my prospects for recovery were good. We may wonder why God gave the Law if its only power was to show that we are sinners. Yet verse one says the Law has value. Our failure to measure up does not diminish the Law’s validity. Nor does our sinful condition make God unjust in holding us to this standard (v. 5). So why did God give the Law? One reason was to shatter our denial. The Law helps us to get real about our sin. God’s Law teaches that there is no one righteous, “not even one” (v. 9). The quotes in verses 10–18 come from the Psalms and Isaiah and offer a stark description of human behavior. They reveal that we are in flight from God even when we seem to be at our most religious. Left to ourselves, none of us would seek God. This may be hard to accept. But it is accurate. Like a doctor’s diagnosis of cancer, it is painful to hear about our condition until we realize there is a solution. It is far better to know our true spiritual condition than to think we are better off than what is really the case. Merely knowing the difference between right and wrong is not enough. Those who possessed God’s Law were not more righteous than those who did not, simply because they knew the truth. >> Why, then, did God give the Law? He didn’t give it to us as a ladder that would enable us to climb into His presence. Instead, He gave us the Law as a mirror. When we look at the Law, it makes us “conscious of our sin” (v. 20).
It is not a compliment when someone says we are acting “holier than thou.” They usually mean we are being a hypocrite. Romans 2:1–16 offers a case study in spiritual hypocrisy. It is part of Paul’s description of the nature of true righteousness and explains why it must come from a source other than the Law of God. Sin has two aspects. It is both a matter of missing the mark and a condition. In other words, sin is not merely a matter of what we do. It is a result of what we are. The problem with those who “pass judgment on someone else” is not that they make judgments about the behavior of others (v. 1). There is an objective standard: “God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth” (v. 2). The problem comes when we fail to hold ourselves to that standard. We pass judgment yet do the same thing (v. 3). On the surface, it may seem as if Paul is merely saying that we should not be hypocrites. But the problem is more serious. He is shining a light on our sin condition that goes beyond just being inconsistent. We sin because we are sinners. Because we suffer from the disorder of sin, the Law cannot make us righteous. In fact, it has the opposite effect. Paul explains, “All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law” (v. 12). Those who do not have God’s Law perish without it. Those who possess God’s Law show by their inconsistency that they cannot keep it. >> Verse 13 is not describing a path of salvation but giving us a standard. It is not enough to hear the Law or even agree with it. Only those who hit the mark are considered righteous. By this measure, we are all sinners. Sin makes hypocrites of us all.
Figuring out what is right and what is wrong might seem like common sense. In a way, it is. Jesus summarized all the teaching of the Old Testament in a single principle: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12). C. S. Lewis called this “the law of human nature” and pointed out that when we object to the way others treat us, we often appeal to a standard of behavior we expect them to already know. When we are the victim, the wrong seems obvious. Not so much when we are the one at fault! Romans 1:18–32 refers to a kind of common knowledge about God when it describes “what may be known about God” as “plain” (v. 19). This means that God’s power and nature are clearly displayed by what He has created. However, according to verses 21–23, humanity’s reaction to the things God has revealed about Himself is just as common. As humans, we distort what God has made plain about Himself. Indwelling sin leads to denial. Instead of glorifying God and giving thanks, we allow sin to make our thinking foolish and darken our hearts. According to verse 28, “just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.” The natural consequence of our sin combined with God’s judgment makes what should be common sense look like nonsense. What God has revealed about Himself is still plainly seen, but sin has distorted our understanding. >> Our moral compass has been broken. We cannot rely on “common sense” to understand right and wrong as God sees them. While we may still be able to tell when boundaries of right and wrong have been crossed, we are hypersensitive to what others do wrong while explaining away our own offenses.
When US president Calvin Coolidge came home from church one Sunday, his wife asked him what the preacher had talked about. “He preached about sin,” Coolidge told her. “What did he say about sin?” she asked. Silent Cal replied, “He was against it.” Most of us are relatively comfortable with our sin until something or someone makes us aware of it. In Psalm 51, David describes his inner struggle after the prophet Nathan accused him of adultery with Bathsheba (2 Sam. 12:1–14). Being sorry for his sin did not seem to come to David immediately or easily. He was reluctant to admit his guilt and had a difficult time seeing himself in the parable Nathan told. Yet, when God opened David’s eyes, he realized how deep a problem his sin really was. There is more to sin than wrong choices and evil actions. Sin is a part of our nature. Like David, we were “sinful at birth” (v. 5). David also realized that he had done more than sin against Bathsheba and her husband, Uriah. His sin was ultimately against God (v. 4). Bathsheba and her husband Uriah were both victims. God is not a victim of our sin. Rather, He is our Judge and Redeemer. God was the only One able to rescue David from his sin. Hyssop is mentioned in verse 7 because it was a plant used to sprinkle water and the blood of sacrifice—an image of cleansing. But it was not sacrifices or offerings that David ultimately looked to for help. David’s hope was in God. God alone could redeem him. >> As we begin our study on sin and righteousness, come before God with an open heart. Ask Him to help you understand both your sin and His righteousness. Sin is an offense against God. And Jesus Christ is its only answer: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21).
Today’s reading concludes 2 Samuel. In this remarkable book, we’ve witnessed the rise of David, his devastating fall, his restoration to God, and the consequences of his sin. This final chapter emphasizes two themes in this book, while also providing hope for the future. First, we are reminded that God is sovereign. God is the One who chose David, empowered him, and directed his steps. God’s sovereign rule is seen in the first verse of this chapter: “And he incited David against them” (v. 1). On one level, this may be confusing. How could God hold David accountable for sin that He incited him to do? Scripture affirms both God’s sovereignty and our own human responsibility and freedom. It does not fully explain how these two aspects of reality ultimately cohere, but we can be certain that both are true. Human freedom can never thwart God’s plans. Yet, God’s sovereignty does not make human actions insignificant. The apostle Paul reflected on this question, concluding: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” (Rom. 11:33). Second, we are taught that there must be atonement for sin. David’s final act was to purchase the ground that would be used for building the Temple of the Lord. The altar that David built was a way God provided for sin to be atoned for through sacrifice (vv. 21, 25). At this site, “The Lord answered his prayer in behalf of the land” (v. 25). This sacrifice points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus who atoned for our sin once and for all (Heb. 7:27). >> We end this book seeing David in full fellowship with God on the basis of atoning sacrifice. The same is true for us today. Despite the sin in our past, we can turn to Christ, trust in His finished work on the cross. Through Him, we can enjoy fellowship with God now and for eternity.
A person’s final words carry special significance. Often people record the last words of famous individuals. Sometimes these are humorous. Theoretical physicist Richard Feynman is reported to have said, “I’d hate to die twice. It’s so boring.” Sometimes they are sublime. As Beethoven was breathing his last, he declared, “I will hear in heaven.” Today’s reading records David’s last words (v. 1). They are not the last words of David in Scripture. We’ll read his words later in the book, but the narrator intentionally included his final statement here. His final words were a prophetic utterance that described his reign in idealized terms while looking forward to a coming Messianic King. David was not trying to whitewash his reign. The book of 2 Samuel is painfully honest about his shortcomings and failures. One commentator said that this poem portrays “David as he should always have been, not as he always was.” His words point to a future Son of David who will fulfill this vision of kingship. David begins by acknowledging God’s empowerment for his rule. He has been “exalted by the Most High” and “anointed by the God of Jacob” (v. 1). God is the one who had given him success. He declares that the work of a king is to rule “in righteousness” and “in the fear of God” (v. 3). When a king like that is on the throne, the people thrive. It is like the sun after a rain, which makes the grass grow and flourish (v. 4). Finally, he celebrates the covenant God made with him (v. 5). This was a solemn promise that David’s “throne will be established forever” (2 Sam. 7:16). >> All of these promises have been fulfilled in the Lord Jesus. When Jesus proclaimed, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12), He alluded to today’s Scripture passage. Thank God in prayer that He has kept His promises to David.
One of the joys of gathering with old friends is telling shared stories. We remind each other of the joys and struggles of years gone by. As we get older there is a tendency to spend more time reflecting on the past than planning for the future. Today’s reading is a hymn of praise that David wrote from a high point in his life: “When the Lord delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and the hand of Saul” (v. 1). For years, David had lived on the run from Saul. Even after Saul’s death, it took seven years before his reign was established. One can imagine the relief he experienced when finally at peace. In this hymn, David expressed his profound thanks to God. He declared that God was “my rock, my fortress and my deliverer” (v. 2). David painted a vivid picture of the kinds of trouble he faced: “The cords of the grave coiled around me, the snares of death confronted me” (v. 6). This terrifying image is answered by an equally vivid picture of the Lord coming to help. “He parted the heavens and came down; dark clouds were under his feet. He mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind” (vv. 10–11). David’s experience of God’s salvation led him to praise God’s word and to recognize how unique the Lord is. “For who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock except our God?” (v. 32). He recognized that there is no real hope for security or help other than the Lord. He concluded by committing to “sing the praises” of the Lord to all the nations (v. 50). >> Sometimes our troubles can seem overwhelming. Yet, David knew that his troubles were not the only reality to consider. David’s song of praise reminds us that we worship a Lord who is more than competent to meet our needs. Take refuge in Him.
It is hard for many of us to relate to the horror of famine. But for much of human history, and in parts of the world today, it is a reality. In ancient Israel, famine was a sign of God’s displeasure (Lev. 26:20; Deut. 28:18). We do not know exactly when the events of today’s reading took place. The final four chapters of 2 Samuel are arranged topically, not chronologically. After a three- year famine (v. 1), David sought the Lord. The Lord revealed the cause of the famine: Saul’s slaughter of the Gibeonites (v. 1). Joshua had made a solemn covenant with the Gibeonites that they would live peaceably together (Josh. 9:15–18). Saul violated this sacred agreement. The following narrative is difficult to read and understand. Instead of asking the Lord how to atone for this sin, David asked the Gibeonites what they wanted (v. 4). The Gibeonites asked that seven of Saul’s sons be executed (v. 6). In the Torah, the punishment for murder was death (Ex. 21:23). Since Saul had already died, his sons would stand in his place. As the Moody Bible Commentary reminds us, “the only way to atone for murder and the consequent pollution of the land was for the person who committed the crime to be put to death (Num. 35:30–34)...justice could only be established through the shed blood of those who carried out the crime.” Amid this horrific scenario stands Rizpah. Two of her sons had been executed (v. 8). She demonstrated deep love for her children by protecting their bodies from harm (v. 10). Rizpah also reminds us of the grief caused by sin. David responded by providing a proper burial (vv. 13–14). >> Today’s reading is a stark reminder of the penalty for sin. Jesus’ death provided the perfect and final atonement for our sin. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2).
September 25, 2001, is a date many Michael Jordan fans would rather forget. It is the day Jordan came out of retirement to play for the Washington Wizards. While he played at a high level, age and injuries had taken their toll on the esteemed athlete. He was not the dominant force he had been on the Chicago Bulls. Despite winning the war against Absalom, David was not the king he had once been. Before he even made it back to Jerusalem, another rebellion against his rule had launched. A Benjaminite named Sheba convinced “all the men of Israel” to desert David and follow him (v. 2). Since David had removed Joab from authority, he ordered Amasa, his new general, to gather the army and pursue the rebels (v. 4). For unknown reasons, Amasa was delayed (v. 5). Worried, David sent Abishai to find out what happened. Joab went along (v. 7). They quickly located Amasa just a few miles outside of Jerusalem. Joab greeted the new general, then used the opportunity to kill him (v. 10). Amasa had not suspected a thing; they were cousins after all. This was the fourth murder Joab had committed. Joab then took charge of the army and pursued Sheba (vv. 11–12). Apparently, there was nothing David could do about Joab’s coup (v. 23). In Joab’s world, power was demonstrated through strength of arms and violence. When he discovered that Sheba had fled to a walled city, he laid siege to it. There he encountered power of a different kind. A wise woman and leader in the town skillfully negotiated with Joab. Through diplomacy, she ended the rebellion and prevented her city from being destroyed (vv. 16–22). >> There is a great deal of unrest in our world today. Power is a destructive force and can be used for great evil. Thankfully, we know a God who holds the ultimate power, and He promises the “victory that has overcome the world” (1 John 5:4).
The U.S. Civil War ended on April 9,1865, when Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant at the Appomattox courthouse. While the war may have ended, it would be decades before the relationship between southern and northern states returned to normal. Even today, there are lingering regional differences that can be traced to this conflict. David may have won the war, but the restoration of the kingdom was not going to come easy. The whole nation had been enamored with Absalom and had anointed him as king. They thought David’s reign had ended. But when Absalom died, David would have to make several difficult decisions to reunify the nation once again. Today’s Scripture reading describes four encounters David had on his way back to Jerusalem. These encounters demonstrate elements of David’s character. First, David was politically shrewd. His first move was to replace Joab as general of his army for Amasa (v. 13). This may seem surprising. Joab had been David’s longtime commander, while Amasa was the general of Absalom’s army! But Joab directly and publicly disobeyed David’s command about his son (18:14). Amasa was David’s relative and appointing him to this post could help unify the nation. Second, David was generous and forgiving. He showed grace to Shimei who had cursed and shamed him publicly (vv. 22–23). He had also listened to Mephibosheth’s defense of his actions. Mephibosheth claimed he had been betrayed by Ziba (vv. 24–28). David likely was unsure who was telling the truth. He found a solution that allowed both men to be welcome in his kingdom (v. 29). Finally, David won the loyalty of Barzillai who provided invaluable aid in his exile (vv. 31–38). >> Forgiveness is a powerful means, working toward reconciliation. David’s actions here remind us of a later Son of David who prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). Who can you forgive today?
Have you ever had to be the bearer of bad news? For most managers, the worst part of their job is having to inform people they have been laid off. Or perhaps you were the first person to break the news that someone’s dear friend has lost their battle with cancer or some other disease. Even if the news does not directly affect us, bringing bad news is its own kind of painful experience. Absalom’s revolt has failed. The priest Ahimaaz wanted to bring this news to David (v. 19). Joab understood that Absalom’s death would not be seen as good news by the king. He instead entrusted the message to a foreigner (v. 21). Yet, Ahimaaz was undeterred. He ran after the Cushite and was the first to reach the king. He reported to David that the battle had been won but was silent regarding the fate of Absalom (vv. 28–29). The Cushite then appeared and told David of Absalom’s fate (v. 33). David’s grief was overwhelming. David had always been a man of words. From the shepherd boy who challenged Goliath to the Psalmist who described God as his shepherd. Now we find him repeating Absalom’s name, “O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom!” (v. 33). Why does the biblical author describe David’s grief in such vivid detail? David’s grief is more than just sorrow at the loss of a son. Packed into this expression of grief is a note of regret. David knew that all this was the fulfillment of God’s judgment (2 Sam. 12:10). While God forgave his sin, he still reaped the consequences. >> David’s grief and regret remind us of the painful consequences of sin. It also points us to the only One who can deliver us, the Lord Jesus (Matt. 1:21). Jesus also wept at the weight of sin (Matt. 26:38). Yet, His obedience to the point of death means life and salvation for us all.
Presidents carefully consider what they want their legacy to be. Often one of the first things a former president does upon leaving office is publish a memoir. They want to be remembered for the good, not the bad, things they’ve done. Absalom craved to be remembered and celebrated for generations. He knew he would not have children to carry on his legacy or memory (v. 18). It seems that his three sons had died in childhood (2 Sam. 14:27). So, he erected a monument to himself in Jerusalem (18:18). He thought future generations could come to the monument and remember his greatness. Absalom’s decision to delay pursuing David until he had mustered a large army was exactly what David needed. David took this time to organize his army under his top three commanders (18:1–2). He took the advice of his generals and stayed home. He was beyond the age of fighting with the army (vv. 2–4). Yet, he left his army with one piece of advice, “Be gentle with the young man Absalom for my sake” (v. 5). His compassion to Absalom stands in contrast to Saul who was enraged when Jonathan supported David (1 Sam. 20:30–34). Absalom’s army was quickly routed. As Absalom fled on his mule, his hair was caught in the branches of a tree (v. 9). His hair, a symbol of his pride and vanity, became his undoing. In this helpless situation, Joab pierced him three times with javelins. Then ten of Joab’s men finished him off (v. 15). They cast his body in the forest and piled stones on top of it. There was no state funeral for Absalom. No burial in a family tomb. Absalom would leave a legacy, but it was not how he wanted to be remembered. >> What legacy will you leave? What life story are you writing today that others will read and remember? Each day your choice to serve and follow God will shape that legacy.
Evangelist Billy Graham once commented, “When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.” It is a tragedy when people achieve a level of success and acclaim that their character is not equipped to handle. The author of 2 Samuel has given us a vivid picture of Absalom’s character. He was crafty, vengeful, and prideful. He enjoyed sitting at the city gate and parading himself in front of the crowds (2 Sam. 15:1–6). He reveled in his “handsome appearance” by publicly getting his hair cut and weighed, a practice that sounds odd to us today (14:25–26). Now that Absalom had come to power, his pride allowed him to be manipulated by others. David had sent Hushai to infiltrate his leadership and subvert his plans. Hushai met Absalom and declared, “Long live the king!” (16:16). Notice that he does not say the name of the king. When Absalom questioned his loyalty, he stated, “No, the one chosen by the LORD, by these people, and by the men of Israel—his I will be” (v. 18). Hushai had not said he would be loyal to Absalom, but Absalom took it that way. When Absalom sought advice regarding his first move as king, Ahithophel gave good pragmatic recommendations. First, he was to take his father’s concubines as his own wives. This would affirm that there was no chance of reconciliation between father and son. Second, he should allow the army to pursue David and capture him. David’s death could save the nation from a protracted civil war. Hushai countered this advice by reminding everyone what a skilled fighter David was. He urged patience so Absalom could gather a large army. Absalom accepted this flattering advice, which bought David much needed time. >> When you need advice, where do you go? Who do you listen to? Proverbs 9:10 points out to the only source of truth: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”
During the winter of 1776, the Continental Army faced its most difficult test—survival. They were running out of food and clothing. Local merchants often refused to sell to them because they could get much higher prices from the British. While historians often focus on the war’s major battles, an important factor was keeping the army clothed and fed. David had fled Jerusalem in a hurry. There is no indication that he had time to organize provisions for his followers. But once he came over the crest of the Mount of Olives, he met an unexpected source of support. Mephibosheth’s steward, Ziba, provided David with hundreds of loaves of bread, raisin cakes, and wine (v. 1). On the one hand, this can be viewed as a cynical manipulation on Ziba’s part. He made the calculation that he could use this crisis to his own advantage. He claimed that Mephibosheth was hoping for David’s defeat (v. 8). David believed this report and granted Ziba all of Mephibosheth’s possessions (v. 4). David would later change his mind when he heard the other side of the story (2 Sam. 19). On the other hand, Ziba was one of the ways God provided for David and his men through this crisis. It is possible for God to use people to accomplish His purpose despite their intentions. David was also met by Shimei, a member of Saul’s family. Shimei cursed David and pelted him and his men with stones as a symbolic act of judgment. Rather than retaliating against Shimei, David took a humble approach. Some of what Shimei said was true, David had murdered and acted as a scoundrel (v. 7). David was willing to face the truth about himself and rely on God’s mercy for protection (v. 12). >> God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. As Peter would later put it, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” (1 Peter 5:6).
On January 15, 2009, Captain Sully Sullenberger piloted a US Airways flight that hit a flock of Canadian geese shortly after takeoff. The result was an unprecedented double- engine failure. The captain quickly and skillfully landed the aircraft in the Hudson River. After that he ensured that everyone evacuated safely and was the last person off the plane. David displayed a similar level of decisive action when he discovered Absalom’s betrayal. He gathered his entire household and evacuated Jerusalem (vv. 14–16). When he arrived at the edge of the city, he waited until all his people marched ahead of him before leaving himself (vv. 17–18). This incident demonstrated that David had loyal followers. One of David’s men was Ittai the Gittite. He was a Philistine from the same hometown as Goliath. Since he was a foreigner, David gave him the opportunity to go back with his people instead of joining him in exile (v. 20). Yet Ittai, who was deeply committed to David, responded: “Wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servant be” (v. 21). His loyalty stands in stark contrast to his son’s betrayal. Another important element is David’s treatment of the Ark of the Covenant. This was an important symbol for ancient Israel, the place of God’s presence among His people. Yet, David ordered it to stay in the city. He refused to use the Ark to his own advantage. He was not willing to use any means at his disposal to stay in the kingship. As one commentator put it, “David is that rarity among leaders, a person who is not obsessed with power...with using everyone and anyone around him (including God) as a support system to his rule.” >> David demonstrated for us what it looks like to make God our refuge in times of trouble. He wrote Psalm 3 out of this experience. Amid his turmoil, he turned to God and proclaimed, “But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the One who lifts my head high” (v. 3).
Most villains do not see themselves as the bad guy. They think they are making difficult decisions that will ultimately be for the best. The Emperor in the Star Wars movie saga is one example, as he sought to bring order to the galaxy. In today’s reading, Absalom carefully plotted to kill his father. This is the second time he has meticulously created a plan to commit murder. In his mind, both conspiracies were justified. He had killed Amnon in revenge for what he had done to his sister. His plot to overthrow David was for the good of the kingdom. It is easy to deceive ourselves into thinking we are doing something noble and just when we are operating in ways that contradict God’s commands. Once Absalom was settled back in Jerusalem, he started acting like a king. He provided himself with a chariot and horses with an armed escort (v. 1). He arose early in the morning and sat at the city gate. This is the place people would come to have their complaints heard and for justice to be administered. Absalom sympathized with each petitioner and lamented the fact that he could not help them: “If only I were appointed judge in the land!” (v. 4). Clearly David had neglected his duties. Absalom took advantage of his inaction and “stole the hearts of the people of Israel” (v. 6). On the pretext of fulfilling a vow, he brought two hundred of the top administrators with him to Hebron and launched a revolt against his father (vv. 10–12). David would be without the support of his best administrators, and they would serve as hostages. The suffering of Israel was largely due to David’s failure to confront sin. He did not provide justice for Tamar. He did not hold Amnon accountable. >> We must take sin seriously! Are there areas of your life today that need to be confronted? Allowing sin to linger may be more damaging than you realize.
Bernie Madoff ran the most successful Ponzi scheme in history. Over the course of seventeen years, he defrauded investors out of tens of billions of dollars. He was able to get away with this because of his carefully crafted persona as a financial expert. He cultivated potential new investors and was able to win their trust. In today’s reading, David’s family is troubled. One son was dead. Another son was living in exile as a fugitive. David’s “heart longed for Absalom,” but he did not know what to do about it (v. 1). We are used to seeing David as the master of every situation. But things had not been the same for him since the Bathsheba affair and his actions toward Uriah. Into this situation steps Joab. Joab recruited a “wise woman” from Tekoa and coached her with a story designed to give David permission to allow Absalom to return home. This scene is reminiscent of the prophet Nathan’s confrontation of David. But it is important to note that this woman was sent not by the Lord but by Joab. The woman convinced David to allow Absalom to return. Yet, there were significant differences between the woman’s story and Absalom’s situation. In her story, one brother accidentally killed the other in the heat of the moment (v. 6). Absalom, however, had carefully planned the murder of his brother in cold blood. When Absalom returned home, David still refused to meet with him. Absalom was guilty and had shown no signs of repentance. This estrangement would have dire consequences for the nation. Absalom was now free to win the hearts of the people while the rift between him and his father deepened. >> As believers living on this side of the Resurrection, we can celebrate that “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 8:1). Jesus provided a way to be fully reconciled with God. He did not ignore our sins but paid the penalty for them through His sacrificial death.
When children behave like their parents, we say: “Like father, like son” or “the apple does not fall far from the tree.” David’s children had observed him committing sexual sin and murder. So it is not surprising that they engaged in similar activity. In fact, this was one of the consequences of David’s sin prophesied by Nathan (2 Sam. 12:10–12). When David heard about Amnon’s rape of Tamar, he was angry but did nothing (2 Sam. 13:21). Kings were supposed to uphold justice. Perhaps David felt he lacked the moral standing to judge Amnon given his own behavior with Bathsheba and what he did to Uriah. Regardless, his passivity in the face of evil allowed this situation to take an even darker turn. Absalom did not forget what had happened to his sister and waited patiently for an opportunity for revenge. It is important to distinguish between justice and revenge. Justice seeks closure and includes vindication for the victim and appropriate punishment for the guilty party. Revenge is more focused on satisfying a personal vendetta. Nothing Absalom did in this chapter would vindicate or help his sister. It also would not publicly hold Amnon accountable for his actions. The time of sheep shearing was a festive one in Israel. It was a time to celebrate the Lord’s provision. Absalom invited all the king’s sons to join in the festivities, including Amnon (v. 27). When the time was right, Absalom ordered his servants to kill Amnon (v. 28). At first David heard a report that Absalom had killed all his sons, but soon discovered that only Amnon had died (vv. 30–33). David mourned the death of his son publicly with the rest of his family (v. 36), while Absalom fled for his life to Geshur (v. 38). >> God does not remain passive in the face of evil but has sent His Son to atone for sin and make forgiveness and reconciliation possible. He also has promised that one day all wrongs will be made right.
The Bible tells the truth. The record in 2 Samuel does not whitewash David’s actions. Today’s passage is not easy to read as we learn about the horrific abuse and evil that took place within the king’s palace. First, we meet David’s two sons who turn out to share many of his faults—Absalom and Amnon. In between is David’s daughter, Tamar. Amnon became “obsessed” with his half-sister (v. 2) but knew his desire could never be acted upon. She was protected as a king’s daughter (Lev. 18:9). On advice from his cousin, Amnon pretended to be sick and asked Tamar to care for him (2 Sam. 13:6). Scripture indicates that Tamar had special skill at preparing medicinal food. Not suspecting anything, David agreed. It’s important to note that Tamar did nothing wrong in this situation. She went to care for her brother by orders from her father. Once Amnon was alone with her, his true intentions became clear (v. 11). Tamar tried to remind her brother of the morality of the situation. She pleaded, “Don’t do this wicked thing” (v. 12). She described the disgrace his action would bring upon her and how it would make him to be like a “wicked fool” (v. 13). But he would not listen and raped her (v. 14). Amnon then added to his cruelty by sending her away and taking no responsibility for his actions. His so-called love for Tamar quickly turned to hatred. Tamar’s public cries should have mobilized the authorities to respond and investigate (v. 19). Instead, her brother Absalom minimized her abuse and kept her quiet (v. 20). >> Today’s reading is a graphic reminder of the destructive effects of sin. Sin creates victims and has dire consequences. The sin that is present in our world makes us long for the day when Christ will return and rule over all (Rev. 12:10–12).
Have you ever prayed desperately for something you cared deeply about and received a resounding “no” as your answer? If so, you are in good company. The Apostle Paul prayed for a “thorn in my flesh” to be removed (2 Cor. 12:8–11). Even Jesus prayed, “Take this cup from me” (Mark 14:36). David understood there would be consequences for his sin. The prophet Nathan had told him that his son would die (2 Sam. 12:14). But David “pleaded with God for the child” (v. 16). He fasted and prayed for seven nights. David’s concern for his child contrasts sharply with his indifference at the death of Uriah (2 Sam. 11:25). Even though David had changed, his request was not granted. David overheard his attendants whispering and discovered the truth that his son had died. Children in ancient Israel were named on the eighth day, which is likely why the child is not named in this passage (Lev. 12:3). David joined the ranks of the many parents who have suffered the indescribable pain of losing a child. David’s response surprised everyone. He “went into the house of the Lord and worshiped” and then ended his fast (v. 29). His reason for this was that he now had the answer to his request. He knew he would not be reunited with his child until his own death (v. 23). It can be hard at times to understand why our requests are not granted. David accepted God’s authority over life and death. This passage ends with the birth of another son, Solomon. One child cannot replace another, but the birth of Solomon served as a reminder of God’s love and grace (vv. 24–25). It demonstrated there was still hope for the future. >> God is worthy of our worship even when His answer to our prayers is no. While we may not understand why, we can be certain that God understands our pain. In Christ, God has entered into our pain and can empathize with us (Heb. 4:15).
Have you heard this familiar saying: “When you point a finger at someone else, you have three fingers pointing back at yourself”? While most of us relish pointing out the ignorance, foolishness, or corruption of others, we are often experts at ignoring our own responsibility or sinfulness. David thought he had gotten away with murder. After all, he was the king and able to cover his tracks well. But no one can escape the eye of an all-knowing God. The Lord sent His prophet Nathan with a message. Nathan did not confront David directly. Instead, he told the story of a rich man with lots of sheep and cattle and a poor man who owned one precious lamb (vv. 2–3). This lamb ate from his owner’s table and even “slept in his arms” (v. 3). When a traveler came to the rich man, the wealthy man took the lamb from the poor man and cooked it for his guest. As David listened to this story, he was outraged. Suddenly, he became deeply concerned with what the Lord would think of the rich man. God was on the side of his righteous anger: “As surely as the Lord lives, the man who did this must die!” (v. 5). In one of the most famous verses in Scripture, Nathan turned the story on David and proclaimed, “You are the man!” (v. 7). Nathan’s parable had gotten under David’s defenses and allowed him to see his actions from God’s perspective. Convicted by the guilt of what he had done, coupled with the hypocrisy of his outrage at Nathan’s story, David repented. He confessed, “I have sinned against the LORD” (v. 13). While there were serious consequences to David’s sin that would resonate for years to come, God forgave David (v. 13). >> Take a moment and reflect on your own life. Are there areas of sin that you have overlooked or ignored? Know, that because of Christ’s death and resurrection, you can be forgiven.
The ability to wield power is a gift from God. God commanded Adam and Eve to exercise power over the world He had created (Gen. 1:28–31). Yet because of human sinfulness, our exercise of power is corrupt. Instead of using power to shape the world in the way God would intend, we use it to further our own self-interest. As the philosopher Edmund Burke put it, “The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse.” As king, David had incredible power, but he actively abused it. In today’s passage, notice the repeated use of the word “send.” David sent for Bathsheba (vv. 3–4). He sent word to Joab (v. 6). He sent a letter with Uriah (v. 14). After Uriah was killed, David sent to bring Bathsheba into his house (v. 27). David forged ahead, acting as if he was accountable to no one. David broke two of the ten commandments in coveting another man’s wife and committing adultery (Ex. 20:14, 17), a capital offense in ancient Israel. Covering up what he had done, David engaged in deception and murder (Ex. 20:17). David’s actions sharply contrast with the loyalty of Uriah. When David sent for Uriah, he expected him to return to his wife and marital bed. Yet, Uriah refused. His restraint and sense of duty served as a living rebuke to David (v. 11). Who would have thought that the Hittite warrior would show more faithfulness to God and his men than the Israelite king? David’s attempt to cover up his sin culminates in murder (vv. 14–25). It might look like David has gotten away with all his actions. But God saw: “But the thing David had done displeased the Lord” (v. 27). >> God sees and knows. There is no cover up possible where God is concerned. This Scripture reading should be a sobering reminder to examine our hearts and confess our sins before the holy God. Spend time in confession today.
Being powerfully used by God does not mean we are exempt from sin or temptation. It is hard to understand why a servant of God like David would behave so recklessly, engaging in adultery and then murder. Yet, as one theologian phrased it, “Sin is at its root irrational.” In today’s reading, David was at the height of his power. He had sent his army to complete his victory over the Ammonites while he stayed home. One evening, David took a stroll on the roof of his palace. From this vantage point, he could see into the courtyards of many houses in the city. Looking across them, he saw a woman bathing. He asked questions and discovered that this woman was the daughter of one of his best fighters (2 Sam. 23:34) and the wife of a dedicated soldier (2 Sam. 23:39). Knowing all of this, he sent messengers to fetch her and committed adultery (2 Sam. 11:4). We do not know what Bathsheba thought about all this. Did she have a choice? There was certainly a power differential between them. We are not given that information as the narrative focuses instead on David’s actions and responsibility. The narrator uses an interesting string of verbs to describe David’s sin with Bathsheba. David “saw” that the woman was “good” (the Hebrew word translated “very beautiful”) then he sent messengers to “take” her (vv. 2–4). These are the same verbs used in the story of the Fall in Genesis 3. Eve “saw” that fruit was “good/beautiful” and she “took” it. The author is subtly drawing a parallel between the two passages. This act would become David’s fall. His life would never be the same. The consequences of his sin would resonate for generations. >> We are all susceptible to temptation and sin. Take a few moments and reflect on your own life. Are there areas you need to pray for forgiveness or temptations that you need to flee?
Have you ever tried to help someone and it backfired? My father-in-law once got a flat tire in the winter. As he started to change the tire, a young man stopped and took over for him. As a farmer who repaired all his own equipment, my father-in-law was not looking for help and didn’t need it. But the young man didn’t ask and his kind deed led to frustration for both. In today’s reading, David was in the mood to show kindness. He had just welcomed the son of his enemy, Saul, to join his household (see 2 Samuel 9). His thoughts now turned to the neighboring country of Ammon. David received news that their king had died (v. 1). This man was an enemy of Saul’s and had brutally attacked the city of Jabesh Gilead (see 1 Samuel 11). But while David was on the run, he had made peace with this king. He decided to send some emissaries to express condolences to the new king on the loss of his father (2 Sam. 10:2). This act of kindness was misinterpreted. They thought David was spying out the land for a future attack (v. 3). Their response was to humiliate the messengers. They “shaved off half of each man’s beard, [and] cut off their garments at the buttocks, and sent them away” (v. 4). Both actions were not only humiliating but also violated the Mosaic Law (Lev. 19:27; Deut. 22:12). This public humiliation was a declaration of war. Talk about a kind gesture backfiring! But the Lord was with David and through the skill of Joab they were able to defeat the Ammonites and expand Israel’s power. >> David was loyal to his promises. However, his example illustrates that doing the right thing does not always lead to a peaceful result. For us as believers, not all of our gestures of kindness will be welcomed or returned. Still, no matter the response, we are to remain faithful.
In Psalm 15, David wrote that God approved of the person “who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind” (v. 4). It can be difficult to keep a promise if it could cause you harm. Yet, in today’s reading David does just that. David had made a covenant or solemn promise to his friend, Jonathan. Believing David would be king, Jonathan asked him to show kindness to his descendants. He said, “The LORD is witness between you and me” (1 Sam. 20:42). Now that David was at peace, he intended to keep his promise. The word “kindness” in verse 1 is more than just emotion. The word is a specific one that means “faithfulness to the covenant.” In other words, David asked if there was someone left in Saul’s house to whom he could demonstrate covenant faithfulness (v. 1). Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth was briefly mentioned in chapter 4. After Saul’s death, his nurse fled with him on horseback. As a five-year-old, he could not ride himself. During the flight, he fell and became disabled in both feet (2 Sam. 4:4). His disability is highlighted twice in today’s reading (vv. 3, 13). It serves as a reminder to treat all people with dignity and provide them a place at the table. Mephibosheth has been living off the grid in a place called Lo Debar for good reason. When a new dynasty came to power in the ancient world, it was standard practice to kill all males in the royal line. As long as one of them survived, they were a threat. Certainly, Mephibosheth should have been terrified. But David kept his word, showing grace and kindness and treating him like a son (v. 11). >> Today’s reading is a reminder for us to be people who are faithful to keep our word, even when it might harm us. Just as God keeps His promises to us, we should honor our commitments to others.
The Marvel movie franchise is the most lucrative in history. In the past 12 years, Marvel movies have made over $22 billion. It is easy to understand their popularity. They depict heroes who are strong enough to deliver the world from danger. People love heroes who can win battles. In today’s reading, David’s star is on the rise. He had won victory after victory by defeating his enemies to the west (v. 1), east (v. 2), north (vv. 3–8), and south (v. 14). Many had been enemies of Israel since the Exodus. Until the time of David, names like the Philistines, Moabites, and Edomites had stricken fear in the hearts of Israelites. “The LORD gave David victory wherever he went” (v. 14). These victories demonstrated God’s commitment to David (vv. 6, 14) and His faithfulness to keep His promise to Abraham (Gen. 13:14). David’s rule of Israel was characterized as “doing what was just and right for all his people” (v. 15). That is, he did not take bribes or show favoritism. The list of names and offices that David appointed show his attentive care to create a stable and just government for the benefit of the people (vv. 15–18). The battles and government organization described in this chapter would have occupied the best years of David’s reign. They represent his most significant achievements. Ancient kings often produced long texts celebrating and describing their military victories and achievements. There are two things that stand out in this chapter. First, the Lord gets the credit for David’s success (vv. 6, 14). Second, these victories are described rather quickly. The author of 2 Samuel is much more interested in David’s character and his relationship with the Lord than his victories over enemies. >> What is most important to God is not always what seems important to us. Consider how you measure success. No matter how many victories you have, it is important to remember your dependence upon God.
Many people struggle with the question: Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? Just as perplexing is the opposite question: Why is there so much joy and wonder in the world? As the Bible teaches that all have sinned and stand under God’s judgment (Rom. 3:23), this second question is actually more difficult. David had initially asked to build a temple for the Lord. God did not allow David to do this. Instead, that task would fall to David’s son. God also made some stunning promises in response to David’s request. He promised that David’s line would endure forever (2 Sam. 7:16), a promise that foreshadowed the coming Messiah, Jesus. David’s initial response was to go to the tabernacle and sit (v. 18). Author and theologian Eugene Peterson observes, “This may be the most critical act that David ever does. ...He takes himself out of the driver’s seat and deliberately places himself prayerfully before God the king.” David is filled with wonder and awe, “Who am I, Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?” (v. 18). The humility and gratitude modeled here by David are appropriate responses for those who experience God’s grace. David not only had been humbled by this experience, his view of God had also been enlarged. He boldly proclaims, “There is no one like you, and there is no God but you” (v. 22). God was powerful enough to redeem Israel from Egypt. He was powerful enough to keep the promise He made to David. >> David’s prayer shows us where hope comes from. It comes not from a belief in our own competency or worth, but from trusting the promises of an all-powerful and all-knowing God. Based on God’s promises, David can boldly approach God in joyful worship (v. 27). Take a few moments and reflect on how you have seen God’s grace in your life.
Have you ever heard Christians talk about building the kingdom? It is interesting, though, that the Bible never uses such language. The Bible talks about waiting for the kingdom, seeking it, inheriting it, and receiving it. The gospel is what God has done for us, not what we do for God. David had reached the pinnacle of his career. Israel was united. David had a new capital city and peace from his enemies (v. 1), so his thoughts turned to what he could do for God. He told the prophet Nathan of his desire to build a temple (v. 2). Nathan immediately gave him a divine building permit without stopping to pray (v. 3). Sometimes what we want to do seems so natural and right that prayer does not seem necessary. But God came to Nathan that evening with a message for David. He withdrew the building permit. He had not asked for a house. He certainly did not need a leader that he appointed to build him one (v. 7). God reminded David of how He had taken him from a shepherd boy to the kingship (v. 8). David had success because of God (v. 9). God made three significant promises to David. First, God would make David’s name great (v. 9). This is language from God’s covenant with Abraham (Gen. 12:1–3). God’s promise to Abraham would be fulfilled through David and his descendants. Second, God would give David a dynasty. His offspring would rule after him and build a temple (2 Sam. 7:13). David’s dynasty would endure forever (v. 16). If a son of David sinned, he would be judged; but God would not ultimately reject David’s line. This last promise provided hope for a future Davidic king, the Messiah, a promise fulfilled in Jesus (Luke 1:31–33; Acts 2:30–36; Rom.1:3). >> Do your plans sometimes get ahead of God’s will for you? Today, take your plans to God in prayer. Hold them with an open hand and be willing to follow God’s lead.
The Ark of the Covenant has long captured our imagination, from Raiders of the Lost Ark to documentaries on the History Channel. In Exodus, we learn that God Himself commanded the building of the Ark (Ex. 25:10–22). It was placed in the innermost room of the tabernacle as a representation of God’s presence. For years, the Ark dwelt in obscurity in the house of Abinadab (1 Sam. 7:1). In today’s reading, David brought the Ark into Jerusalem. This chapter provides us with three pictures of worship illustrated by Uzzah, Michal, and David. Uzzah was one of the priests entrusted with transporting the Ark. He decided to “set the ark of God on a new cart” (2 Sam. 6:3). This catches us by surprise. The Law was specific on how the Ark was to be handled. It was to be carried on poles by the priests (Ex. 25:13–14). Uzzah decided to transport it like the Philistines had (1 Sam. 6:7–8). He thought he knew best. As one commentator put it, “Instead of losing himself in the worship of God, [he] has God in a box and officiously assumes responsibility for keeping God safe.” Uzzah’s example reminds us to respect God’s holiness. Obedience is central to right worship. Michal does not worship. She observes from the outside and critiques. She evaluates David’s performance (v. 16). It is easy to be sympathetic with Michal. She had a difficult life. But this passage shows that she did not take refuge in the Lord. Her bitterness kept her from joyful worship. David was wholeheartedly devoted to the Lord. He did not always understand what God was doing (v. 8), but his whole being was oriented toward God, and he danced before Him with abandon. >> Take a few minutes and reflect on your own attitude toward worship. Are you more like Uzzah, Michal, or David? What are the things that hinder you in your worship of God?
Have you ever failed to keep a promise? Or maybe someone broke a promise made to you? While as humans, we may fail to keep our word, we have a God who always keeps His promises. When David was a shepherd boy, God promised that he would be king over Israel (1 Samuel 16). David spent years in Saul’s service, running for his life from Saul’s jealous anger, and then fighting a civil war after Saul’s death. But God was faithful to keep His promises. Today’s reading narrates three short episodes that demonstrate God’s faithfulness. The civil war was finally over! The elders of the northern tribes accepted David’s rule. They admitted they knew that this was God’s plan all along, “And the LORD said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler’” (2 Sam. 5:2). David would go on to reign over a united Israel for 33 years (v. 5). David’s first move as king was to establish a new capital city. Jerusalem was the ideal choice. It was located on the border between the northern and southern tribes but did not belong to any of them. It was still held by the Jebusites. God had commanded that the Jebusites be defeated (Ex. 23:23–24), and David now fulfilled that command. After a surprise attack on the fortified city, he was able to conquer it. This city would become the center of Israel’s life. David was also able to deal a decisive blow to Israel’s nemesis, the Philistines. After this defeat, the Philistines were not a threat to Israel any longer (2 Sam. 5:17–25). >> When God makes a promise, we can know that He will be faithful to fulfill it. David held on to this belief through many difficult and dark periods of his life. We too can be confident that the same is true today. As Paul proclaimed, “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ” (2 Cor. 1:20).
The American Civil War lasted from 1861 to 1865. While more than 600,000 soldiers died, the effects of that conflict extended far beyond lives lost. After the death of King Saul, Israel was embroiled in a civil war for seven years. At one point in a battle, an army captain lamented, “Must the sword devour forever?” (2 Sam. 2:26). The conflict had been long and exhausting. Today’s reading narrates the final episode in this dark period of Israel’s history. For years Ish-Bosheth had been fighting for his right to be king, but things were not going well. The general of his army had been killed in Hebron (2 Sam. 4:1). There was not much hope of victory left. Two leaders in Ish-Bosheth’s army decided to take matters into their own hands. They snuck into Ish-Bosheth’s house and killed him in his sleep (vv. 5–6). Cutting off his head and hands as proof of his death, they fled to David’s headquarters. They wrongly assumed that by delivering the body of David’s rival to him, they would be rewarded. It is interesting to examine what David did during this time. He did not plot or scheme to claim the throne. He did not kill his rivals. Instead, the author presents David as waiting well: conducting funerals, writing laments, having children, and administering justice. In contrast, Joab, Abner, Rekab, and Baanah were all opportunists, willing to shed blood to advance their cause. David knew that he had been anointed by the Lord and waited for His timing. In accordance with the Law’s requirements for the murder of an innocent person, David again dispensed justice. >> Often the Christian life is filled with times of waiting for God. These periods of waiting are often the times when we are forced to rely on God the most. David knew this dynamic well. His psalms often encourage us: “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Ps. 27:14).
Politics is a messy business. Publisher Ernest Benn once quipped, “Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies.” That is as true today as it was in ancient Israel. As we continue to examine David’s rise to power, we see that it will not be smooth or unambiguous. Instead, David’s claim to the throne was fraught with the kind of intrigues, jealousies, and revenge common to a world tainted by sin. We are reminded that God can use imperfect people and messy situations to accomplish His will. There was war between the house of Saul and David (v. 6). Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth had a claim to the throne and was supported by Abner, the general of Saul’s army. However, there was not a high level of trust between them. Ish-Bosheth accused Abner of sleeping with his father’s concubine (v. 7). This act was not just immoral, but a claim to Saul’s throne. We don’t know if this accusation was true, but Abner was deeply offended. Because of this conflict, Abner decided to abandon Ish-Bosheth and make peace with David (vv. 9–11). This story of rivalry, sexual immorality, and political intrigue ultimately led to peace between Saul’s army and David. This passage also reminds us that the means we use are as important as the ends. When the opportunity to make peace with the northern tribes presented itself, David made the most of it. He waited for God’s timing and desired peace without bloodshed (vv. 19–21). David’s general, Joab, did not agree. He wanted revenge for the death of his brother Asahel (v. 30). Though both Joab and David wanted to unite the nation, Joab used immoral means to this end. >> God can use imperfect people and messy situations to accomplish His will. That is not an excuse, though, to justify immoral actions. God cares not just about our goals but also how we accomplish them.
There is almost nothing worse for a country than a power vacuum. With the death of Saul and Jonathan, the nation of Israel was thrown into turmoil. Who would be their next leader? While David knew he had been anointed by the Lord (1 Sam. 16:13), he had been on the run from Saul for years. It was not obvious to everyone that he would be the next king. Uniting the country would be difficult. Seven years and many battles lay ahead (2 Sam. 5:4–5). After grieving Saul’s death, David’s first step was not to recruit people to his side or come up with a PR strategy. Instead, his priority was to “inquire of the LORD” (2 Sam. 2:1). In this difficult and dangerous transition, he relied on God’s wisdom. He probably inquired of the Lord through Abiathar the priest using a method of divination (1 Sam. 23:9–12). By contrast, today, we seek God’s guidance through prayer, God’s Word, and godly counsel (James 1:5; Rom. 12:2). David’s second act was to encourage the people of Jabesh Gilead who had rescued Saul’s and Jonathan’s bodies at great risk and provided them with a proper burial (1 Sam. 31:11–13). Jabesh Gilead was a city Saul had saved from the Ammonites, and it had remained loyal to him (1 Samuel 11). David tactfully asked that they recognize his rule now that Saul has died (2 Sam. 2:7). Not everyone accepted David’s rule peacefully. Saul’s general, Abner, formed an opposition government, using Saul’s son as a puppet king (vv. 8–11). This led to years of warring and bloodshed. David had been anointed by God as king, but he would have to be patient. >> Christians today find themselves in a similar situation. In this world, as we await the return of the Lord Jesus, we should not be surprised to face opposition and others who assert their authority. Rejoice that you know and serve the one true King!
In the 1994 film Forrest Gump, the main character processes his grief over the loss of a friend by remembering something his mother had told him, “Death is just a part of life.” In a sense that is true. All of us are, in the words of Hebrews, “destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” (Heb. 9:27). But death is not a natural part of the world God created. It came into the world because of the Fall. In this deeper sense, death is an enemy and an intruder. One of the reasons Christ came was to defeat death (1 Cor. 15:26). The grief we feel at the death of a loved one is a recognition that this is not the way things are supposed to be. Upon hearing of Saul’s and Jonathan’s death, David crafts a lament to express his grief. He also encourages the whole community to learn this lament as an appropriate way to grieve the loss of their king (2 Sam. 1:18). David does not hide from the reality of death or the loss that it creates. Three times in this haunting poem, David declares, “How the mighty have fallen!” (vv. 19, 25, 27). This is both a reminder of Saul’s prowess in battle as well as his judgment. David abhors the thought that Saul’s death would be celebrated by the Philistines (v. 20). Their celebration would compound the loss felt by the nation. David especially laments the death of his friend Jonathan. They had a close and deep friendship. Even though Jonathan was the crown prince, he was willing to give the crown to David. He recognized God’s unique calling on David’s life. Yet, he also remained loyal to his father and died at his side (v. 23). David could hardly contain his grief (v. 26). >> Grief and lament are appropriate responses to death. We do not need to live in denial. Even as we grieve, we know that we can put our hope in what Christ has done to defeat death. As Jesus reminded His disciples, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
In contemporary culture, we have a love-hate relationship with celebrities. On the one hand, we are fascinated by movie stars, singers, and social media influencers. However, we also love to see them get taken down. News of scandal spreads quickly, often with a tone of glee over the person’s demise. This month we are beginning a study of 2 Samuel. The book opens in tragedy, recording the downfall of King Saul. Saul had refused to obey the Lord, and God had rejected him as king (1 Sam. 15:26). This judgment was realized in a battle against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa (1 Sam. 31:1–13). As we begin 2 Samuel, we (the reader) know that Saul is dead. David, however, does not. On the run from King Saul, David was living in exile. He had just returned from attacking a band of Amalekites who attacked his camp and captured many family members (1 Sam. 30:1–30). Three days after David rescued his family, a messenger arrived and gave David the news—Israel had been defeated in battle. Saul and Jonathan were dead. How would David respond? After all, Saul had been trying to kill him. Also, God had promised that David would one day be king of Israel. We might assume David would rejoice that his enemy had perished. But David does the opposite. He immediately tore his clothing as a sign of grief (2 Sam. 1:11). Seeing God’s judgment implemented upon someone was nothing to rejoice over. David respected God’s anointing on Saul and had refused to kill him on several occasions when he had the chance (see 1 Sam. 24:4–7). Now that Saul had died, David lamented not only for Israel’s loss but also for Saul’s tragic end. >> All too often we hear news of church leaders who are being disqualified for ministry because of some sin or scandal in their life. These events should lead us to mourn over the impact of sin and remind us to be wary of sin’s effect on our own lives.
For many years, I struggled with drug and alcohol addiction. It started before I was a teenager and continued until my last semester of seminary. Since I was a straight-A student and a Christian who attended church faithfully, no one suspected that I was also regularly using narcotics. I woke up one morning and the Holy Spirit impressed on me this thought: “My dad didn’t become an alcoholic and cause so much destruction because he wanted to. It happened just like I’m doing now—a few steps at a time.” That day I flushed my stash of pills, called a friend for help, and never looked back. No withdrawals, no relapses; God miraculously healed me from a decade and a half of substance abuse. I was very slow to share my sin. I was ashamed and afraid of all that I would lose if people knew the truth about me. Do you know what happened, though? That first friend I called showered me with love and offered a place to stay. And every person after that offered love, support, and encouragement. I expected condemnation, but instead I received mercy. I expected to be shunned, but instead I was welcomed. To say I did not prosper during all those years I concealed my sin would be an understatement. The weight of hidden sin sucked all the life out of me. But that life rushed back in when I “confesse[d] and renounce[d]” my sin (v. 13). Friend, if you’re living under the weight of hidden sin, come to Jesus. First John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Come and see that God is good. Come experience His mercy and refreshing, grace and forgiveness. >> Do you have hidden sin? Follow the words of wisdom that we have studied this month. Confess your sin to God and renounce it today. Then call a friend or your pastor for help.
If you look at Proverbs 26, verses 4 and 5, you will notice that they seem to say exactly the opposite thing! These two verses are favorites of those who are eager to disbelieve the Bible. The problem with the argument, of course, is that the reader is failing to understand the purpose of Proverbs. In the book of Proverbs, readers are presented with two contrasting statements—the way of wisdom and the way of folly. The primary purpose of Proverbs is to make its readers wise. We learn that wisdom is more than just knowing the right thing to do. It is doing the right thing at the right time. Today’s proverb is a good example. In some contexts, such as on social media or with that one uncle at Thanksgiving, you should “not answer a fool according to his folly” because getting in a verbal argument will do no good. The fool will remain entrenched in folly no matter what you say or do. Answering that person is a waste of your emotional energy. However, there are also times when you should “answer a fool according to his folly” because the person needs to learn from you. In this case, the time and energy spent correcting this fool will be well spent. The author of Proverbs doesn’t give us a checklist to know when we should or shouldn’t answer the fool. Instead, Proverbs gives us principles to live by, and it’s up to us to decide— through the guidance of the Holy Spirit—when to speak and when to be silent. That is precisely why we must study the Scriptures diligently and depend fully on Christ. >> How do you decide when to speak and when to listen? If you have a difficult conversation coming up, pray about it beforehand and ask the Holy Spirit to give you the courage to speak truth when necessary and the grace to be silent when needed.
Today’s discipline methods may be different, but my grandmother Mimi was an “old school” disciplinarian—and I needed strict discipline. I remember as a kid her sending me home with one of those flat wooden paint stirrers with black block letters emblazoned on it: For Use on Rusty When Needed. My grandmother disciplined me because she loved me. She wanted me to choose what was right. Proverbs 22:6 addresses the subject of discipline, how a parent should correct a child. Most English translations read very closely to the NIV. I learned it as “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” It says something slightly different in Hebrew: “Train a child in his way, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” The meaning is mostly the same—parents should discipline children—but it comes out a bit differently in Hebrew. This proverb is not saying that if you raise your children to be godly and wise (“the way they should go”) then you are guaranteed a good outcome. This idea echoes what we learned earlier in our study: Proverbs are principles, not promises). Rather, this proverb states that raising a child in his way means that he will stay that way (again, principles, not promises). Put another way, since Genesis 3 every human heart has bent toward evil. We are selfish, prideful, and sinful—every one of us. If we allow a child to continue on that path of selfishness and sin (pursuing “his or her way”), then that’s most likely how they will live their whole lives. The stakes are high—very high—so be encouraged, parents, and ask God for His wisdom, grace, and steadfastness while you lovingly correct your children. >> God’s discipline for us is an example of how a good parent will discipline a child (Deut. 8:5). God corrects us for our own good. He wants us to “share in his holiness” (Heb. 12:10).
What does God want from us? In the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, we see individuals struggle to please God, often failing to understand what He wanted from them. In the prophet Micah’s day, God’s people asked (with sarcasm) what more He could possibly want from them. The Lord responded, “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Mic. 6:8). In the New Testament, Jesus castigated the Pharisees because they were obsessively nit-picky about tithing even their spices, yet they “neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness” (Matt. 23:23). While most of us don’t rely on animal sacrifices or tithing our mint and dill to appease God, we may be tempted to think that God will be pleased with us when we fulfill certain religious requirements: attend church on Sunday, give money, or read our Bible. While these are not bad things, today’s Proverb that “to do what is right and just” is “more acceptable” (v. 3). It’s helpful to look at the verse that comes before it: “A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart” (v. 2). God sees not only what we do but also our true intent. The Bible is clear what doing righteousness and justice looks like: caring for orphans, widows (James 1:27), the poor (Deut. 15:7), and the foreigner (Ps. 146:9). It means extending God’s love to those in society who are vulnerable. And it means loving our neighbor like ourselves. The Bible’s call to justice and righteousness requires more from us than church attendance. God has called us to follow Him wholeheartedly and sacrificially, not just to add more religious activities to our lives. >> Have you been tempted to rely on religious rituals to ensure your rightness with God? How can you, today, follow God, deny yourself, and practice righteousness and justice?
If you’ve spent even the smallest amount of time on social media, then you appreciate the truth of today’s Proverb. Social media can bring out the worst in people like me, who think they have the best opinions and want everyone else to know it. Proverbs shows us two paths in life—the path of folly and the path of wisdom. We’ve seen repeatedly that humility marks the path of wisdom, for humility acknowledges what God says about us as true: We are needy. We don’t know everything; we don’t have everything; and we cannot possibly save ourselves. Fools think the opposite. Rather than seeking out understanding, they “delight in airing their own opinions” (v. 2). Foolish people say foolish things. Notice the extensive advice in this chapter on what not to say: “The lips of fools bring them strife” (v. 6), “the mouths of fools are their undoing” (v. 7); and “the words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts” (v. 8). Fools seek only to be heard. They are much more concerned with being heard than listening. The apostle James has stern words to say about the way we speak: “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be” (James 3:9–10). With humility and seeking wisdom, we desperately need the Holy Spirit to guide us. We need the work of Christ to make us humble, to cause us to seek understanding rather than spout off what we think we know. We need, in Paul’s words, “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16). >> Think about your words today. Consider your use of social media and how you interact with people face to face. Do you seek understanding in those conversations, or are you more interested in making sure others know what you think?
If you were given a choice, would you live in a mansion or a shack? Imagine a sprawling mansion with dozens of rooms, marble columns, a grand spiral staircase at its entrance, and iron gates to guard its doors. The interior rivals anything you see on HGTV. The oneroom shack has no such appeal. Its windows let the cold in, and the floor is dirty and uncarpeted. The floors creak and the faucet drips. It is hard to imagine finding comfort inside the small box-shaped room. Proverbs tells me that were I to choose the mansion, I would be utterly foolish. No, it is “better to be lowly in spirit with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud” (v. 19). It is highly unlikely that any of us today will be faced with that sort of decision, but we are faced with similar decisions of the heart on a regular basis. Will we be prideful and haughty, thinking of ourselves more highly than we should (Rom. 12:3)? Or will we recognize who we really are—frail humans utterly dependent upon God for our every need? Verse 5 says, “The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.” Solomon (who was wealthy himself) was not saying that every wealthy person achieved their status through taking advantage of others or that every oppressed person is “lowly in spirit.” But these two contrasting images show the stark reality that God’s way and His plans for us are always best. It is better to be oppressed and humble than to be wealthy and proud. That is a difficult truth to believe, let alone live out, but that is exactly the life to which Christ calls us. >> There are many times when we can choose humility . . . but do we? It is tempting to select the path that elevates us, brings us respect and reward. Ask God to give you a humble heart that is willing to serve outside of the spotlight.
College professors are often asked to write recommendation letters for their students. In addition, many companies ask the professor to fill out a form that ranks the candidate in various areas; one being “teachability.” They want to know if your former student was humble and wise enough to learn from others and from their own mistakes. Solomon addresses the same issue in today’s proverb. No one likes to receive discipline, and I think that’s why Solomon brings it up so often in the book of Proverbs. Since the Fall, humans have tended toward foolishness and hard-headedness. Just like Adam and Eve, we think we know best, and so we plow ahead with what we want to do and resent anyone who might suggest we are headed in the wrong direction. That’s the human condition, but Solomon tells us that’s the exact wrong way to live. Rather than reject, or “spurn,” correction from people God has placed in our lives, Solomon tells us that we should “heed correction,” for that “shows prudence,” or in other words, makes us wise (v. 5). Sin has conditioned us to think that we know what is right and best for us, but we are deceived. And to continue in that deception by rejecting discipline shows that we are more than deceived—we are fools. To turn the ship around, so to speak, we must face the truth about our sin condition and then humbly accept correction and reproof. That’s easier said than done, of course. Seeing ourselves as we really are is not just countercultural, it’s counter-human! We need the Holy Spirit, whom Christ promised, to guide and direct our hearts, otherwise we’ll remain fools convinced of our own goodness. >> Invite the Holy Spirit to keep your heart humble and open to His correction. The Lord may correct you through the reading of His Word or the words of fellow believers. Pray for the grace you need to respond and learn.
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Keeping up with the Joneses.” It captures the problem that Solomon identified in the book of Ecclesiastes, thousands of years before the American dream was a thing to aspire to: “And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another” (Eccl. 4:4). Today’s proverb zeros in on what envy can do to our hearts. Maybe you’ve experienced envy while on social media. There you see your “friends” experiencing success. Maybe one friend was promoted, another published a book, and yet another is at a beach resort. Rather than rejoice with others, it is easy to allow envy to rot our bones. The image is graphic. To rot is to waste away, to eat away at something. Envy destroys us. The Bible has many warnings about envy. “Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple” (Job 5:2). And in the New Testament envy is listed among other sins (Gal. 5:21, 26; 1 Tim. 6:4; James 3:6; 1 Peter 2:1). We also learn that envy is the opposite of love: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud” (1 Cor. 13:4). Even if we deleted our social media accounts so we couldn’t see the joys and accomplishments of our friends, we might still struggle with envy. It is helpful to remind ourselves that God has called us to something better. Rather than feeling bitter and envious about what He has given others, we are to have a spirit of thankfulness for what we have been given. If you struggle with this sin, here are two things to try: 1) Thank God regularly for the good things He’s given you; and 2) Rejoice in the gifts He has given your friends. >> Envy is destructive. It can wreck our relationships and blocks us from having a proper relationship with God. We are called not to envy, but to love one another.
Michael, my supervisor, tells me every time I see him that he loves me, that I’m a joy to work with, and that he’s thrilled to have me on his team. When I first started working with him, I was suspicious that his comments weren’t genuine. But now that we’ve worked together for a few years, the encouragement hasn’t let up. What’s more, he has repeatedly backed up his words with his actions. Now I find myself calling him when I’m struggling or when anxiety weighs down my heart. I know Michael’s kind words will cheer me. If you’re like me, then you probably don’t go around telling people how much they mean to you or how blessed you are to have them in your life. Those “words of affirmation” make me very uncomfortable when I receive them, and even more so when I give them. It’s somehow gotten into my mind that offering kind words reveals a chink in my armor, a vulnerability that someone may exploit. And that might be true, but protecting myself should not be my primary concern if I trust the Lord to care for me. God can use other people to lift our anxieties, cheer our heart, help us feel more comfortable in our own skin, and perhaps most importantly, to give that same blessing to others. We may not think we are great at encouragement, but the true value of speaking kind words to another is both a gift to them and an offering to the Lord. When our fear of vulnerability threatens to make us withhold kind words, we should ask the Lord to help us see people as Michael does—a gift to be cherished and built up. >> Can you remember a time when someone’s kind words cheered your heart? How can you extend that gift to one other person today? Look for an opportunity and then do it as an act of worship to God.
Do you remember Jesus’ parable in the Gospel of Luke about the rich man who trusted in his wealth rather than God? The man enjoyed a large harvest, which led him to tear down his barns and build bigger barns to hold it all. He told himself, “Take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry!” (Luke 12:19). The man in Jesus’ story put his faith in his wealth and convinced himself that this abundance would protect him and ensure a good life. “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’” (v. 20). Jesus’ story is the perfect illustration for today’s proverb: Wealth makes a poor god. When reading these short sayings in the second part of Proverbs it is important to know that they typically followed a common Hebrew style called parallelism in which two images or concepts were placed next to one another for comparison. Today’s verse invites us to consider the difference between “those who trust in riches” and “the righteous” (Prov. 11:28). This verse is supremely countercultural, especially in the United States, where we are every day tempted to trust in money and self-sufficiency rather than Christ. Proverbs assures us that trusting in wealth will cause us to fall but trusting in God, or being righteous, will make us “thrive like a green leaf.” And that is true whether we are wealthy or impoverished. As Paul tells us in Philippians 4:12–13: “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” It is God, not our paycheck, who ensures our life and well-being. >> Take a moment to consider in what things you place your trust and confidence. It is so easy for us to worry more about this life than we do about eternity.
As we’ve seen from our study so far, the first nine chapters of Proverbs are Solomon’s advice as a father to his son. These chapters are a cohesive unit that impress upon us the urgency of wisdom’s call. The rest of Proverbs (at least for the most part) is a series of short wisdom sayings that illustrates the opposing ways of wisdom and folly. For the rest of our study, the daily reading will include an entire chapter of Proverbs, even though we will focus on a single concept. As you read, consider how each pair illuminates the concept of choosing wisdom over folly. Today’s proverb may sound familiar if you’ve read the New Testament, where Peter says something similar in his first letter: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). We must keep in mind that love is not primarily an emotion, though it certainly involves our emotions. Rather, love is an action, a God-ordained way of acting toward others. In Proverbs 10:12, love is pitted against hatred. The latter “stirs up conflict” while the former “covers over all wrongs.” Love, therefore, involves forgiveness; it is the opposite of picking a fight or continuing one. Love demands we extend grace when we could rightly continue to throw metaphorical punches. However, we must also remember that love disciplines, so when this proverb says that “love covers over all wrongs” (v. 12), it is not saying that love covers up all wrongs. Love extends grace and forgiveness, yes. Love refuses to throw a punch, yes. But love does not hide sin, for hiding someone’s (and our own) sin allows the sin to continue to lead them (and us) down the path of folly and away from the Father’s embrace. >> Forgiveness is a powerful act of love. And forgiveness is modeled for us and motivated by God Himself. Just as God forgave us, we are to forgive one another (Eph. 4:32). Consider who you can forgive today.
Motivational speaker Zig Ziglar once said that “repetition is the mother of learning,” but of course he was borrowing from the wisdom of countless schoolteachers who came before him. The book of Proverbs models the principle of repetition by returning to the same topic repeatedly, saying the same thing in different ways, and tackling the same topic from various angles. Earlier in this study we discussed Solomon’s advice for cultivating and protecting the marriage relationship. In today’s passage Solomon returns to the theme of relationships, this time more fully developing the dangers of adultery. Here there is no mention of the son’s spouse or what infidelity might do to their relationship. Rather, the focus is on the husband whose wife commits adultery and the destruction this sin will bring. Again, while the passage mentions an adulterous woman, the principles apply equally to adulterous men. In God’s view, infidelity with a married person is not simply a matter of sex between consenting adults, or even sex in exchange for money (v. 26). Further, it is also not simply a matter of taking what one needs, such as a thief might do (vv. 30–33). Rather, adultery strikes at the heart of the most sacred bond of trust in human society; it destroys society at its very roots. Thus, Solomon says, to bed a married woman is to foolishly invite great harm. “No one who touches [another man’s wife] will go unpunished” (v. 29). And what’s more, there is no one to blame but oneself. It is foolishness of the highest order that invites fierce retribution. Solomon has taken the commandment in Exodus 20:14, “You shall not commit adultery,” and expressed the dire consequences of breaking God’s Law. >> Solomon spends a good deal of time on sexuality in the book of Proverbs. Consider why this topic is connected to wisdom and to following God. The call to purity affects every part of our lives and every relationship.
We throw around the word “hate” without much regard for what it really means. I realized this when my middle son started saying “I hate this” and “I hate that.” “What in the world could a four-year-old possibly hate?” But I do it, too. I say I hate anything being left on the counter. I hate slippery roads. I hate, I hate, I hate. “Hate” in today’s passage is much more serious than the way we use the word. It doesn’t mean that God just “doesn’t like” this or that. Rather, God’s “hating” these seven things means that He utterly despises and rejects them. These things do more than cause God to frown; they invoke His animosity and rejection. That frightens me because I’m guilty of most of these sins. I’ve had haughty eyes and a lying tongue. I’ve devised wicked schemes. I’ve rushed into evil. I’ve lied and stirred up conflict. I have even murdered people in my heart, which Jesus tells us is just as bad as the physical act (see Matt. 5:21–22). Like yesterday’s passage, these verses are a stern warning to guard our hearts and lives, lest we find ourselves on the wrong side of God’s fury. Read in isolation, this passage can seem crippling. Like Jesus’ disciples, we may hear this and exclaim, “Who can be saved?” To which Jesus responds to His disciples, and to us today: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matt. 19:25–26). The bad news is that we are all guilty. The good news is that God has provided forgiveness for the things He hates through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. >> The seven sins listed in today’s reading may seem regrettably familiar to you as well. If you are guilty of any, run to Jesus today and trust Him for the forgiveness of your sins. God has provided a way for our sins to be forgiven.
Do you remember being a kid and answering a question with your fingers crossed behind your back? The idea was that you could tell a lie so long as your fingers are crossed. The crossed fingers let you off the hook. As adults we excuse ourselves from speaking truth by saying that our “white lies” are to protect others and don’t harm anyone. Whether young or old, we’ve all practiced deception. In today’s passage Solomon speaks strongly against deceptive words and practices; his words offer both warning and comfort to readers today. First, Solomon warns that the lying and deceitful person “always stirs up conflict,” and as a result, “disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy” (v. 15). While the lying and deceitful person may appear to get ahead—as is often the case—danger lurks just around the corner. So, while we may be tempted to lie and manipulate to gain power, wealth, or other temporary advantages, we should understand that choosing deception will ultimately lead to death. The wise person will avoid it at all costs. These verses also offer comfort. Though liars and deceivers may appear to prosper, Proverbs reminds us that their destruction is certain. The “disaster will overtake him in an instant” (v. 15). The suddenness of judgment gives urgency to our declaration of the gospel, for the punishment faced by evildoers will be unimaginably horrifying. God is a just and righteous judge, and while we may be frustrated by the temporary success of the wicked, we are told that “those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you” (Ps. 73:27). >> Our words matter to God. Deception and lying should have no place in the actions of the believer. Are there times when you avoid speaking truth? Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading and ask God to make you a person of your word.
In Idaho, the summer days are gloriously long, which may lull some people into thinking winter will never come. But locals will remind you that winter is never far away. Industrious residents prepare for the cold months ahead by chopping and stacking wood, cleaning the chimney, and making sure that their snowplows and snowblowers are working. When winter does come, they will be ready. Solomon illustrates the same principle in today’s reading by pointing to the ant as an example of industriousness. The ant doesn’t have a foreman to oversee its labor, yet it wisely prepares in the summer for what is coming in the winter (vv. 7–8). The ant makes the most of the opportunities to work, because it knows winter will soon come, and provisions will be scarce. Solomon suggests it is easy to become indulgent with times of rest. “How long will you lie there, you sluggard?” (v. 9). It is easy for us to let things slip and the results could be devastating (v. 11). While the ant is wise, working hard is not just a matter of wisdom; it’s also a matter of worship. Though speaking to slaves in the ancient Roman Empire, Paul’s words equally apply to us today: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward” (Col. 3:23–24). What’s more, Ecclesiastes lists work among the gifts God has provided for our own pleasure (Eccl. 5:18–20). How can we reflect the attitude described by Solomon as we undertake each task set before us today? >> It is easy to view work as bad and the weekends or vacation as good. Today, whether you are stocking a shelf, configuring a spreadsheet or doing your laundry, consider how you can use your ordinary work, which is the bulk of our lives, to glorify God.
We often say that we love all sorts of things. We love books, songs, shirts, movies, coffee, pizza, dogs, a sports team, or our spouses. It can be confusing when we use the same word to talk about two radically different things. After all, we don’t love the show Matlock the same way we love our spouse. But the overuse of the word “love” points to a larger issue that Solomon addresses in Proverbs 5. Solomon explains that love is not primarily an emotion we feel or a preference for one person or thing over another. Instead, as Solomon shows us, love is a verb; it’s a way of acting toward another person with whom we have a relationship. Solomon tells his son how to love his wife with his actions. First, he should protect his relationship with her by avoiding the adulterous woman (v. 3) at all costs (v. 8). Note that while Solomon is writing specifically to his son; the “adulterous woman” could equally apply to adulterous men. Second, he tells his son to cultivate a relationship with her to the point that he is “ever . . . intoxicated with her love” (v. 19). While the context of this passage is sexual, we shouldn’t think Solomon’s advice refers only to sex—he is talking about the entire marriage relationship. Solomon paints a picture of love based on more than emotion (though love is emotion) and more than affection or preference (though both are meant too). Solomon’s depiction of love is oriented toward specific actions, namely protection and cultivation. Most marriages have rough spots because humans marry other humans, and that’s why it’s so important to realize that loving our spouse isn’t primarily a feeling we have about them. >> Compare Solomon’s depiction of love as action to our modern understanding of love and marriage. Is it the same or different from how we view love and fidelity today?
My parents divorced when I was six years old. My brother had taken me to Sonic to get me out of the house when my dad drove away, but on the way home we passed each other on the road, and that image is forever burned into my mind. My heart was broken for the first time. Most of us have experienced heartbreak. We learn to “guard my heart” because it is delicate and fragile. And the ache we endure when it breaks can be devastating. Today’s verse from Proverbs is not a lesson on self-protection. It’s not a how-to manual on protecting yourself from broken-heartedness, and it’s not a fool-proof method for guarding against vulnerability. Rather, Proverbs 4:23 and the entire passage, is emphasizing the importance of guarding our hearts from the sin and evil that wants to take up residence within us. In English the “heart” is where we experience emotion and through which we express things like love and commitment. In Hebrew “heart” refers to our mind, will, intentions, understanding, and emotions. The “heart” thus encompasses all of our inner selves, not just our emotions. That’s why we must guard our hearts. “Everything you do flows from it,” says Solomon in verse 23. In Matthew 15:18, Jesus pointed to the dangerous “spill over” of what’s in our heart. He said it was “the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” Since the Fall, our hearts have been prone to sin; we naturally veer toward folly and wickedness, allowing sin to enter our lives and grow. Since we know that our tendency is to allow sin, we must actively guard our hearts, filling them instead with righteousness and holiness. >> What ways can we guard our hearts? Consider the things you allow to enter and set up residence in your life. Ask God to reveal anything you have let into the gates of your life that should be removed. In addition, ask Him to protect your heart.
After I cracked a joke in my high school history class, my teacher Mr. Beaeden turned around and started drawing on the board. He wasn’t very good at drawing, but it didn’t take long to realize he was depicting a forked road with a stick-figure version of myself at the juncture. He said, “You can go this way, Rusty, and find a wife, job, and a good life. Or you can go this other way and find heartache and sorrow.” Solomon agrees with Mr. Beaeden: there are two paths laid out before us. The first way is to choose wisdom—it is a straight, smooth path suited for running unencumbered. That path leads to life and goodness. That path is free and open to all who would heed wisdom’s cry. That path “is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day” (v. 18). The other path is to follow wickedness (v. 19). This choice includes violence and evil, the very opposite of loving God and loving neighbor. That path, we know from earlier in Proverbs and likely from our own lives, can often seem enticing. It looks like fun times, easy money, and unbridled power. Solomon—and the rest of Scripture—wants us to understand that the wicked way is an illusion, a lie meant to trap us. To follow in that way “is deep darkness,” Solomon warns (v. 19). The good news is that while we all start on that wicked path, God has a rescue plan. Even “while we were still sinners,” Romans 5:8 tells us, “Christ died for us.” Turning to Christ requires our lives, but Christ promises eternal life with Him! He has made a way for each of us to follow the path of righteousness. >> If you imagine yourself standing at that fork in the road, which path are you choosing? Have you decided to follow God? If not, ask Him to forgive you, turn from your sins, and follow Christ as your Savior.
While it may sometimes be difficult to do, loving our neighbor is central to obeying God. When asked which of the commands was the greatest, Jesus responded, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments” (Matt. 22:37–40). In today’s passage Solomon gives three examples of how to love our neighbors. First, we must not “withhold good from those to whom it is due” or put off our neighbor when we can help him today (v. 27). If you can help, then you should, Solomon tells us. Expressing love by helping those in need is an act of obedience to God. Second, you must not “plot harm against your neighbor” (v. 29). This is the opposite side of the first example. On the one hand, we must go out of our way to help. On the other hand, we must avoid plotting harm. It sounds almost silly, right? Why in the world would you plan to harm your neighbor? But, if we’re honest, when we’re raking our neighbor’s leaves off our lawn for the thirteenth time, it might be a bit harder not to plan evil against him. And finally, we must not “accuse anyone for no reason” (v. 30). The key here is the phrase “for no reason.” There are good and right reasons for confrontation, and not to confront your sister or brother can be very unloving. However, to accuse them without cause is unloving. We need the Lord’s wisdom and the Spirit’s guidance to navigate our relationships with love for others as our guiding principle. >> Understanding the command to “love your neighbor as yourself” may seem simple enough. But obeying can be challenging. Keep this command front and center in your mind today and act on it!
Americans have a sleep problem, and it gets worse year by year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “A third of US adults report that they usually get less than the recommended amount of sleep.” Despite the overwhelming health benefits and the link to chronic diseases, many of us fail to get adequate rest. This probably isn’t really news to you especially if you are plagued by fear or anxiety. Proverbs tells us that fear is really a wisdom problem, which ultimately is a trust and worship problem (see Proverbs 3:5–6 and the July 8 devotional). Today’s passage urges us to keep a tight focus on wisdom and understanding (v. 21). Why? “They will be life for you” (v. 22). There is a reward for holding onto wisdom, “When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet” (v. 24). A mentor once told me that one of the most significant ways to worship God is to sleep, because sleep is a physical way of saying, “I’m not God.” Resting in God means we give up our controls and acknowledge that God alone is in charge. Notice in verse 25 that it speaks of fear: “Have no fear of sudden disaster.” Why? “The LORD will be at your side” (v. 26). Solomon tells us the same, that sweet sleep is a consequence of trusting in the Lord, of seeking His wisdom. That is easier said than done, of course, but Proverbs provides us a way forward: trust the Lord, seek His wisdom, and rest in His watchful care. In sum, restful, peaceful sleep is the result of living in right relationship with the God who created us. >> If you are struggling with sleep, use that time to pray and ask God for wisdom. Give Him each worry that is on your mind, acknowledging that He alone is in control. Seek wisdom and trust the Lord to care for you.
On Christmas Day 2021, NASA launched the James Webb Space Telescope. This successor to the Hubble Telescope cost $10 billion and took nearly a month to arrive at its destination a million miles from earth. The creators of the telescope hope to show earth-bound humans images from the earliest stars in the universe. We can be certain that this new perspective will take our breath away. In Genesis 1, we are told that God created the stars and the entire universe, with nothing more than the word of His mouth. He spoke, and it came into being. Just like that—poof! Space was empty, and then God filled it. Proverbs 3:19–20 tells us that God laid the earth’s foundations by using His wisdom (v. 19). He set the heavens in place with His understanding (v. 19). And His knowledge created the oceans, rivers, and waterways (v. 20). It is impossible for the human mind to completely understand the mysteries of these things. Yet God created all of this with only His words and by His wisdom. Worship of astral deities was common in the ancient Near East. The “gods” of the sun, moon, and stars counted many people among their followers. The Bible is clear that the heavens are nothing more than created things meant to display God’s wonder and wisdom. We in the modern world may scoff at the idea of worshiping the stars, but we have the same problem as people in the ancient Near East. Many still do not worship the God who made the heavens, instead putting our faith in more sophisticated idols. And yet God’s wisdom, through which He created the universe and that culminates in the death, resurrection, and ascension of His Son, still calls out to us, beckoning us to a relationship with Him. >> Tonight, step out in the dark and do a bit of star gazing. Consider the “works of His hands” and all that God has created. Let that moment become a time of praise to our Creator.
In Matthew 13, Jesus told parables that illustrated the immense value of the kingdom of God. He compares the kingdom of God to a “treasure hidden in a field” and a pearl “of great value” (vv. 44–46). In both instances, the people who found these treasures were willing to sell everything they had to claim them. In a similar way, Solomon says wisdom is of immense value: “Blessed are those who find wisdom” (v. 13). Wisdom’s worth, writes Solomon, goes beyond that of silver, gold, and rubies. Wisdom’s rate of return is higher than the greatest investment you could imagine; wisdom offers “long life” and “riches and honor” (v. 16). Wisdom “is a tree of life” with “pleasant ways” and “paths of peace” (vv. 17–18). What’s more, we know from earlier in Proverbs that God gives wisdom, like salvation, freely to those who seek it. The question before us today is: Why are we not seeking wisdom? If wisdom really is so valuable, why do we spend our time on less worthy pursuits? I think there are some general reasons. First, we don’t really believe that wisdom is as valuable as Proverbs says it is. In the same way, we may not believe that God’s kingdom is as valuable as Jesus says it is. Second, Scripture tells us that our hearts are wicked, that since the Fall we have worshiped idols and persisted in sin. Our hearts deceive us, and so we fail to seek wisdom. Third, maybe we haven’t fully accepted the challenge given to us. Solomon challenged us to seek wisdom. Jesus commanded His disciples, and us, to proclaim His kingdom throughout the earth. That task remains unfinished, and it is our duty to point people to the only true source of wisdom, God Himself. >> Wisdom is more valuable than anything else! Consider what might be preventing you from seeking wisdom, whose fulfillment is Christ. How can you put those things behind you to focus on the true treasure?
Have you ever hidden your sin? In my past, I struggled with alcohol. I experienced the shame of finding empty bottle after bottle of liquor and realizing they belonged to me. I remember wanting to hide where I thought no one could see me and put things into my body to feel better. I learned the difficult way that hiding my sin had consequences. That’s why the words in this Proverb, urging us to come clean before God, strike home to me in a personal way. Much more than I or you ever could understand, our heavenly Father longs to be in right relationship with us. Today’s passage in Proverbs 3 continues the discussion of how we are to bring everything before God. We are to turn from evil (v. 7), an action that promises a healthier lifestyle! We are to honor God with our finances (vv. 9). And we are to welcome God’s discipline (v. 11). The reason God disciplines us is that we might live in a good relationship with Him and avoid the negative consequences of our sin. In fact, this discipline demonstrates God’s love for us. As today’s Scripture tells us, if He were not our Father, and if He didn’t love us, then He wouldn’t discipline us. So, while “no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful” (Heb. 12:11), God’s discipline is one more way He demonstrates His love toward us. God’s discipline “produces a harvest or righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” While it may seem counterintuitive, we should welcome God’s discipline for the good it is working in our lives. >> When we sin, we tend to hide. We cover up what we are doing, thinking that if no one else can see it, it isn’t really a problem. Sit before God today asking Him to reveal your hidden places and bring to light the sins from which you need to repent.
If you’ve even been involved in youth ministry, you’re likely familiar with some variation of the trust exercise. It usually involves closing your eyes and letting yourself fall back into a friend’s arms (hopefully!) or sit down into a chair you simply have to trust will be there. Today’s passage, perhaps the most famous in all of Proverbs, asks us to do the same thing, but to an extreme degree. Proverbs 3:5–6 instructs us, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” The three commands in these two verses are variations on the same theme. In the first place, Solomon tells us to trust in the Lord with “all our heart.” That is, we are to rely on God completely and totally with all our beings. Consistent with Proverbs’ use of metaphorical language, “heart” in this passage doesn’t refer to the physical muscle pumping blood through our bodies. Nor does it refer to our emotions, as it commonly does in English. Instead, “heart” is a metaphor for our mind, feelings, will, and personality. In this case, the heart is everything that makes a human a human. Second, we must not “lean on our own understanding.” This is hard for most people because we tend to trust mostly in ourselves. Solomon assures us, though, that nothing but God is worthy of our trust, no matter how wise or intelligent we may be. Third, “in all your ways submit to him.” In all our actions, reactions, thoughts, and plans, we are to submit to the Lord. Are you seeing a theme here? The entirety of our being should be turning toward the Lord, relying on Him, and doing what He says. Solomon is giving us a whole-life, all-encompassing ethic of living in right relationship with God. >> Time for a trust exercise. Consider in whom or in what you are trusting today. How can you trust God with all of the circumstances in your life? What do you need to turn over to Him?
“Let’s go to the beach! The beach! The beach!” my son kept saying. “That’s not gonna happen, buddy,” I told him. “We’re in Indiana.” To my surprise, we saw a sign for the Indiana Dunes National Park, with a large lake and a beach (please forgive my ignorance of geography). That’s where the same son, who can’t swim, stepped into water that immediately covered his head. I panicked mildly, then lifted him out of the water to safety. Whereas yesterday’s shield metaphor indicated God’s protection from direct attacks, today we learn that wisdom saves us from more indirect attacks: the allure of evil. Proverbs 2:12 says wisdom will rescue us “from the ways of wicked men,” and 2:16 says “wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman.” The original audience of Proverbs was primarily young men, so the author highlights the ways a young man might be tempted. Men can also be adulterous, and women can also be wicked, but that’s not the point Solomon is making here. Solomon compares wisdom to a father lifting his son out of too-deep waters. The crooked path of wicked men promises much, as does the “wayward woman with her seductive words” (v. 16), but wisdom quickly lifts us out of the water and shows us the truth: “the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the unfaithful will be torn from it” (vv. 21–22). Wisdom rescues us by showing us what awaits us at the end of each road, and only one road leads to life. >> There are times when we, too, are in over our head. We find ourselves in situations that threaten to drown us; we have no idea what to do. Rest assured that your heavenly Father is present and ready to scoop you out of your circumstances. He is with you.
My rambunctious, sometimes out-of-control sons love to wrestle and battle each other with pretty much anything that could remotely resemble a weapon. They’ve also recently learned how to deflect their brothers’ blows by crafting shields from cardboard boxes with strings attached to slide their arms through. While these cardboard shields may be effective enough for the battle raging in my living room, they are nothing compared to the impenetrable shield in today’s passage. In Proverbs 2, the search for wisdom is compared to looking for valuable things like “silver” and “hidden treasure” (v. 4) When we receive this wisdom from the Lord, it gives us success and protection. Indeed, the Lord “is a shield to those whose walk is blameless” (v. 7). Shields are valuable defensive instruments— they offer protection from an attack, creating a barrier between you and the attacker. When a child is playing, they don’t really need a shield. They are not in real danger of being hurt, but the ancient audience of Proverbs would have recognized the importance of a defensive weapon in actual hand-to-hand combat. They would surely hear echoes of the promises God made both to Abraham—“I am your shield” (Gen. 15:1)—and the wilderness generation just before they entered the Promised Land—“He [the Lord] is your shield and helper and your glorious sword” (Deut. 33:29). God was their shield, their divine protector. He had gone before them into dangerous situations. He had protected them from their enemies. As with the ancient Israelites, and with us today, God is a shield to those who seek Him and fear Him. Whatever may come our way—and Jesus promises that we will experience both sorrow and difficulty—we can trust that God will be our shield. >> Think about how God has protected you as you’ve served Him. Thank Him today for His promise of protection and for the ways He has shielded you from harm.
Have you ever heard a street preacher crying out for his hearers to turn to Christ? Or have you yourself stood on a street corner and called people to repentance? If so, chances are good that you’ve seen that person receive mockery, scorn, or simply endure the stone faces of people passing by. Street preachers are seen as abnormal in our culture not only because of their message but also because not many people communicate that way today. It was far more common in the ancient world of Proverbs’ original audience. In today’s passage we learn that “out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square” (Prov. 1:20). While we may think that wisdom is some secret knowledge given only to the most studious or wealthiest, the Bible tells us that wisdom cries out in public, making her case to everyone who will listen. Wisdom does not hide, and she does not charge for her wares. Wisdom is free to all who seek it, her reward is great, and “whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm” (v. 33). However, wisdom’s invitation includes a stark warning. Those who refuse to listen, who refuse to “accept my advice” (v. 30) and “did not choose to fear the LORD” (v. 29) will experience shame and derision “when calamity overtakes you” (v. 27). We should not wait to respond to wisdom’s call! Wisdom is fulfilled by the arrival of God’s Son, Jesus, who came centuries after Proverbs was written. Though the gospel of Christ crucified is foolishness to the world, it is the “wisdom of God” to those who heed the call to trust in Him (1 Cor. 1:23–25). >> If you have not responded to wisdom’s call to trust in Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, we urge you to act today while the opportunity is still here! Go to moodybible.org/knowing-christ to learn how.
For centuries, parents have warned their children not to fall in with the wrong crowd. They worry that the bad behaviors of other young people will influence their children. This can even be true later in our lives; the people we choose to spend our time with can have a profound influence on us. In today’s Proverb, a father talks to his son about the dangers of following “sinful” men (v. 10). One commentator compares these sinful men to a modern-day gang. The gang offers protection and invites the young newcomer to join them (v. 10). They promise that if he goes along with their evil schemes to hurt and steal, he will get rich (vv. 11–14). The father’s warning is clear. “My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them” (v. 10). The father sees beyond the immediate lure of their promises. Nothing that this sinful group does will prosper. In fact, they will bring harm down on themselves and on his son. “Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it” (v. 19). This passage can be interpreted not only as a relationship between a father and son, but as God speaking to His people. In Proverbs, the covenant relationship is explored using poetic language. Here, Solomon paints a vivid picture of the dangers of murder, theft, and covetousness, clearly referencing God’s commands given to His people: “You shall not murder” (Ex. 20:13), “You shall not steal” (Ex. 20:15), and “You shall not covet” (Ex. 20:17). With compelling imagery, the author shows the dire results of breaking God’s commands. We must listen to the guidance given by our heavenly Father. He truly knows best. >> It is easy to let other voices talk us into doing things we know are not right, things that break God’s commands. We may justify our behavior because it produces pleasing short-term results. The warning is clear: be careful of the company you keep!
Most of us prefer clear, guaranteed courses of action. We like to think that if we follow all the traffic laws, we won’t get into a car accident; if we invest our money wisely, we will have a comfortable retirement; or, if we say all the right things to our kids, they will turn out just fine. However, we also realize that life doesn’t work out that way. Sometimes drunk drivers run red lights and destroy innocent lives. Sometimes the stock market tanks and wipes out your retirement fund. And sometimes kids decide to go their own way, no matter how well their parents raised them. The biggest challenge to understanding Proverbs is to realize it is teaching principles rather than making promises. It may seem like Proverbs is promising us that listening to our father and mother will guarantee a desired outcome. Therefore, we believe that if we follow the book’s wise advice, we’ll receive these benefits. When calamity strikes, we may feel God has not kept His word. The books of Job and Ecclesiastes struggle with this very question. But Proverbs is giving us principles, not promises. We are advised that it is better to be wise than foolish, which is true. Most of the time, hard work leads to success and pride causes our downfall. But in the context of this earthly life, we see exceptions. We know people who have worked hard their entire life and never experience success. In the New Testament, John the Baptist’s faithful service ends in death. Many others faced a similar fate. It is helpful to read Proverbs in context of the entire Bible; many of these promises will be realized in the next life, where we will dwell forever as the adopted children of God. >> Try to read the book of Proverbs as principles instead of promises. Keeping an eternal perspective helps us better understand the benefits of wise living in the here and now.
Did you ever see the ‘90s television show Are You Afraid of the Dark? The series centered around a group of kids who would gather around a campfire every weekend to tell scary stories. Many (but not all) people enjoy scary television shows, movies, and books. They love the jittery feeling that comes with being afraid. That is not the type of fear spoken about in Proverbs. In chapter one, verse 7, we read, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction”. When the Bible says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” or “Fear God and keep his commandments” (Eccl. 12:13), the intent is not for us to cower in a corner. Instead, the fear of the Lord calls us to obey His commands rooted in a relationship with Him and a deep respect for who He is. When I was a kid, my dad once told me not to enter the kitchen. Of course, I walked straight in there, only to cry out in pain when shards of glass dug into my feet. That day I learned two things: 1) My dad gave commands to protect me; and 2) He had the power and will to enforce my obedience. I gained a healthy fear or respect for my father. While human fathers may fail us, so the analogy isn’t perfect, our fear of the Lord is similar to how I viewed my dad after that painful day in the kitchen. “To fear” means we understand that 1) God is our Father, 2) He loves us, 3) He gives us commands out of His love for us, 4) He has the power and will to enforce these commands, and 5), we should therefore obey Him. >> The phrase “fear of the LORD” may strike you in a negative way. It is helpful to understand it in the context of our awe of and respect for God. This fear moves us toward godly actions, learning, and growth.
Today, we have more entertainment options than ever before. Children can watch cartoons on more devices than most of us ever imagined when we were their age. As adults, we can stream nearly any television show or movie. There are more movies, more shows, more books, and more music readily available to us than ever before. The possibilities are endless! So, with so many available ways to spend our time, why study the Old Testament book of Proverbs? In short, because this book was written “for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight” (1:2). This book, written thousands of years ago through the inspiration of God Himself —“God-breathed” (see 2 Tim. 3:16–17)—tells us how to live. We can do more than simply exist or move through life in a flurry of entertainment options. We can live well! Chapter 1, verse 1 attributes the book of Proverbs to Solomon, the son of King David. In 1 Kings 3, God told Solomon, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (v. 5). Solomon responded, “Give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong” (v. 9). Solomon asked for God’s wisdom and was given it! Solomon is the primary author of Proverbs along with a few others (see Prov. 30:1; 31:1; 25:1). The wisdom shared here promises to give us a better, fuller, and more complete life. And that wisdom, of course, culminates in Jesus Christ, the very wisdom of God, who likewise calls us to a life that far surpasses anything we could ever ask or imagine, both in this life and the next. >> July is the perfect month to read through the entire book of Proverbs, 31 days for 31 chapters. In addition to the designated Scripture passage, why not also read one chapter of Proverbs each day?
Stories can captivate our attention and our heart. They help us see ourselves and others more clearly. The story of the Prodigal Son is perhaps one of the most well-known stories told by Jesus. It is the third and final story in a string of parables that Jesus used to critique the religious leaders. They were critical of Jesus’ associating with sinners and tax collectors. Each parable highlights the rejoicing after something lost is eventually found. We relate to each story because there is a person who is devastated by what has been lost. For example, the shepherd leaves his flock of 99 to look for the one lost sheep. A woman lights a lamp, using precious oil, to look for her lost coin. Have you noticed that in the third parable, no one goes to look for the lost son? In the 1st-century culture, it was often the responsibility of the oldest son, to go look for his younger brother. In Jesus’ parable, the elder son stays home and leaves his father to anxiously wait for the younger son to return (v. 20). When the younger son eventually returned, the father was elated, and he celebrated with the entire community (vv. 22–24). However, the older son was aghast and angered. How could the father forgive his brother who humiliated the family name, squandered the wealth, and lived a sinful lifestyle (vv. 25 30)? The older brother in this parable is meant to represent the Pharisees. Like the parable, they too must have been astonished that Jesus would welcome sinners into the kingdom. As the religious experts, it was their duty to go after those that were lost, but they were too self-righteous to give others a second chance. Our God is constantly seeking the lost. When one person puts their trust in Jesus, all of heaven rejoices! >> If you have experienced God’s forgiveness, make it your mission to seek others who need another chance, too. Then join the celebration!
Most of us have a small circle of people who we consider our closest friends, people we can be completely honest with, people we trust. The apostle John was one of Jesus’ closest friends. He was part of Jesus’ inner circle, and their relationship was special. John wanted all Christians to experience a similar, close-knit relationship with Jesus. John’s letter was written to reassure believers in the face of some popular and misleading false teachings. One idea that had crept into the church proposed that sin does not break one’s fellowship with God. To combat this false notion, John declared that if we claim to be without sin, we are being deceived. People who deny sin in their lives are either oblivious to their sin or simply lying to themselves. Instead, John urged believers to confess their sins (v. 9). At times it is appropriate to confess sins amongst a group of trusted believers, and it is always appropriate to confess our sins to God. Some may ask, “I thought when I said the sinner’s prayer that all my sins (past, present, and future) are forgiven. Why do I need to constantly confess and ask for forgiveness?” John wants his readers to know that sin after our conversion, while covered once and for all by Christ’s sacrifice, hinders our relationship with the Lord. Any relationship full of secrets and lies is bound to be unhealthy. The type of confession he explains in verse nine removes the barriers toward an authentic relationship. John also reassures his readers that Jesus is our “advocate” for the forgiveness of sin (2:1). He not only pleads our case to God the Father but also takes our deserved punishment. Why? So that we may have another chance at a closer fellowship with Him. >> Is there a sin that is hindering your relationship with God? Confess it today and receive another opportunity to grow in your fellowship with Him.
Every Moody Bible Institute student is required to take a class called Apologetics. In this class, students learn reasoned arguments for Christianity and how to defend the gospel against false religions. One of the strongest arguments for the validity of the gospel and Jesus’ resurrection is the evidence of changed lives. Today’s text documents the testimony of a transformed life. A Pharisee named Saul was a persecutor of Christians. By his own admission he opposed Jesus, put believers in prison, and sentenced some to death (vv. 9–10). In his obsession to stop them, he forced them to blaspheme and oppressed them (v. 11). But everything changed when he met Jesus on the road to Damascus (vv. 12–18). After his encounter with the Lord, he was transformed from Saul the persecutor to Paul the preacher. When Paul would share his testimony, he often began by clearly describing his resistance to Jesus and followers of Christ. He then moved to a very specific encounter with Jesus. As seen in our text today, he would explain in detail where he was and what he was thinking. Finally, he described what his life had been like ever since. Clearly, his priorities had changed, and his life was transformed. Paul’s testimony gives us a model of the way to share with others how knowing Jesus changed our lives and gave us another chance. It is important to articulate what our “Saul” days were like, the time before following Christ. What preoccupied our lives and what sin entangled us? Then, like Paul, we should detail a special time, event, or conversation we had that began to change everything. Finally, describe how your life has changed since you met Jesus and how your priorities are different. >> Now that you have a simple outline of how to share your con- version story, pray for an opportunity to share it with someone. Then, when the timing is right, be bold and tell that person how God transformed your life.
I grew up near the beach in a small fishing village in Florida. People who earn their living by fishing are some of the hardest working people I know. They are up before the sun and set out for the day’s catch regardless of the weather. But if you ask them if they would rather do something different for a living, they will look at you and say, “Never in a million years.” Fishermen love to fish. Several of Jesus’ followers were fishermen, including Peter. When he put down his nets to follow Jesus, he also gave up his lifestyle and his profession. That is why it is interesting that in John 21 we encounter him back out on the water, fishing. Some scholars believe that after Peter’s three denials of Christ (Mark 14:66–72), he felt he had placed himself out of Jesus’ inner circle and therefore retreated to his former occupation. What Peter certainly didn’t expect was that Jesus would pursue him to talk about those courtyard denials. The miraculous catch immediately got Peter’s attention (John 21:6–7), but it was the charcoal fire burning that would have reminded Peter of his rejection of Christ (v. 9). The only other time where the word for charcoal fire is used was at the scene of Peter’s denials (John 18:18). After their meal, Jesus turned to Peter. He asked Peter how much he truly loved Him (John 21:15a). Peter’s declaration of loving the Lord three times did not erase his three denials just days before (vv. 15b–17). However, it did create an avenue for a deeper relationship with Jesus. With each question, Jesus was giving Peter another chance. While Peter the fisherman would finally retire, Peter the follower of Jesus would never turn back again. >> No matter how many times you have turned from the Lord, He is always standing on the shore of your life calling you back to Himself. Are you ready to truly follow Him?
The late evangelist Billy Graham once admitted, “The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or ‘Help me.’” Graham was not the first follower to ever feel this way. James, the half-brother of Jesus, could relate as could recipients of his letter. We, too, need to be reminded that the effective prayer of a righteous person has tremendous power. Taking time to pray for the big and little things in our lives orients us to the Father’s will and the Spirit’s ways. In our text today, James reminds us of the importance of church leaders praying for the flock and ministering to the needs of their congregation. The Christian life will be a constant roller-coaster of emotions because of the nature of our sin, rubbing shoulders with those in need, as well as seeing God’s promises and our prayers fulfilled. James reminds us that we can go directly to God with our requests, and much can be accomplished through our prayers (v. 16). After giving a biblical example of the power of prayer, James ends with a call to live out the truth of the gospel. Wherever the Lord leads us, we are to tell others about the restorative hope that is found in Jesus Christ (v. 19). Throughout his letter, James explains what it means to have real, authentic faith. A faith that is lived out by making a difference in other lives. Prayer is the first step in living out your faith and helping someone else get a second chance. The Christian life is not easy, but prayer gives us the strength we need. >> Do you know anyone who needs a second chance? Pray that the Lord would “make the sick person well” and “raise them up” (v. 15). Pray for opportunities to share the gospel with them and a pathway to lead them back to Jesus.
Have you noticed how social media has opened the floodgates on judging others? It seems that we are constantly judging or being judged. How many likes did I get? What do others think about me? This is nothing new. In Jesus’ time, people judged and were judged, but not online. Their method was to bring the accused before the teachers of the Law. One day, at dawn, people gathered around Jesus in the Temple courts to listen to His teaching. Suddenly Jesus was interrupted. The teachers of the Law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and pushed her in front of Jesus. They wanted to stone her to death, but they had an ulterior motive too (v. 5). They wanted to trap Jesus with their questions. The Romans did not allow the Jews to carry out death sentences, so if Jesus approved her stoning, He would conflict with the Romans. If he said not to stone her, He could have been accused of not supporting the Law. When Jesus bent down to write in the sand, they kept questioning Him. After His response in verse seven, He bent down again and wrote something else. After a long pause, everyone walked away, leaving just Jesus and the woman. He told her, since they did not condemn her, He wouldn’t either (v. 11). He gave her a second chance, saying, “Go now and leave your life of sin” (v. 11). Jesus did not judge or excuse the woman, He offered something better: forgiveness. He offers that to you and me today. >> Too often we are quick to judge and condemn others. When we are tempted to find fault and declare someone’s worth, particularly in public shaming, Jesus shows us another way. We, too, have sinned. We all need forgiveness. He has also given us a second chance. Make sure you are giving others a second chance as well.
Many televangelists have amassed millions of dollars by taking advantage of viewers. It is shocking that people who claim to love Jesus and the Bible deceive others into giving away their savings. Instead of praying for the needy, these false teachers prey on the impoverished and get rich. As we mentioned earlier this month, tax collectors had a scandalous reputation in Israel. Working for the Romans, they not only collected government taxes but also padded their own pockets by charging a ridiculous surplus. Zacchaeus was a chief tax collector and very wealthy man whose reputation was well known. After climbing the tree to get a better look, and probably to avoid the elbow pushing, Zacchaeus finally saw Jesus. He must have been shocked when Jesus stopped, looked directly at him, and called him by name. How did Jesus know Zacchaeus? He must have been one of the most corrupt tax collectors if we judge by the crowd’s reaction (v. 7). Jesus not only welcomed the interaction with Zacchaeus but also went to the man’s house as “the guest of a sinner” (v. 7). After conversing at the dinner table, Zacchaeus realized his sin. He confessed and committed to helping others, instead of taking advantage of them. He swore to give to those in need, instead of stealing from them. Jesus’ response to Zacchaeus would have stunned Luke’s readers. First, they would never have eagerly welcomed a corrupt person like Zacchaeus into Abraham’s family. Second, it would have been difficult for them to admit that anyone from Abraham’s family could be lost. But Jesus was in the business of seeking out and saving all those who have gone wayward and giving them salvation. Through Jesus, even a corrupt tax collector was given a second chance. >> Zacchaeus’s story is a reminder that our family lineage does not earn us salvation, neither do church attendance and good works. Only faith in Jesus can help lost people find forgiveness and a second chance.
“Don’t forget to say ‘thank you.’” If you are like me, your parents said this to you often as a child. And maybe you’ve given this advice to children. But, if we are honest with ourselves, even adults, and yes, even Christians sometimes forget to express gratitude and appreciation. In our text today, Jesus and His followers were on their way to Jerusalem, for the last time, to celebrate one of the Passover traditions (v. 11). We don’t know exactly which village Jesus entered, but we do know who was waiting for Him: a group of men with a horrible skin disease called leprosy (v. 12). By law, people with leprosy were forced to isolate, leaving their family, friends, job, to live with others who suffered from a similar disease. When Jesus passed by, these suffering people recognized their chance to get help. So together they cried out to Jesus (v. 13). Jesus responded by telling them to go see the priest who had authority to allow them to rejoin society (v. 14). On their way, they were miraculously healed! But then something even more remarkable took place. One man, the Samaritan, paused, and before seeing the priest, turned back to Jesus to say “thank you” (v. 15). Upon seeing him, Jesus asked, “Where are the other nine?” (v. 17). Were the others grateful for their second chance? Of course, they were grateful, each one of these people had experienced a life-altering miracle. But for one person, gratefulness turned into an expression of thankfulness. Being grateful is an emotion we feel but being thankful is an action we can take. If you have ever been given a second chance, make sure you pause and turn your “grateful” into “thankful.” >> To whom do you need to express your thankfulness today? Make your thankfulness personal and let them know how much you appreciate them.
I’m told there is a house in the Midwest, where rain droplets that fall on one side of the roof flow through a downspout into a river that eventually runs to the Atlantic Ocean. Droplets that fall on the other side of the roof eventually flow into a river that leads to the Gulf of Mexico. A small gust of wind can change the destination of a single raindrop. Similarly, a single decision a person makes today can change his or her final destination. In our text today, the woman is not given a name but is only described as one who regularly sins (vv. 37, 39). She was most likely known throughout the community by her bad reputation. But when she heard that Jesus was in town, she had to see Him (v. 37). With great boldness and courage she busted into the house where Jesus was eating. Kneeling behind Him, she was moved emotionally. Her passionate tears began to fall on Jesus’ feet, and she began to wipe them with her hair and pour the expensive perfume. What did she know about Jesus that the Pharisee has failed to see? She recognized that there was something different about Jesus. Unlike other men that most likely had taken advantage of her, Jesus was the only one offering genuine peace and true rest (Matt. 11:28–30). The Pharisees were blind to the forgiveness Jesus offered. Jesus told them a parable emphasizing God’s forgiveness and the implications for a forgiven sinner (vv. 41-47). Her decision to see Jesus that night and put her emotions on the line, changed her life forever. It is a tragedy that those who think they are the most religious are often the ones likely to miss the significance of forgiven sin. >> Jesus extends grace to everyone, including you. No matter what sins you have committed in life, He will never stop forgiving you. Your decision to trust in Him today will change your eternal destination.
Forgiveness is a precursor to second chances. Eighty-year-old municipal judge, Frank Caprio, has hundreds of millions of views of his verdicts on YouTube. But it is not his harsh words to criminals that attract audiences, it is the ways he reveals his compassionate heart. With every verdict, Judge Caprio attempts to see the person behind the crime. Our text today comes on the heels of Jesus’ teaching on church discipline. Peter inquired what to do regarding lesser offenses that require forgiveness. In typical Peter fashion, he asked a question in a way that implied he already knew the answer (v. 21). Typically, Jewish rabbis taught people that they should forgive others three times. Perhaps trying to impress Jesus, Peter suggested forgiveness ought to be given seven times, the perfect number. Jesus’ response of “seventy-seven times” indicated there ought to be no restrictions on the number of times we forgive (v. 22). Jesus followed with a parable highlighting the generous forgiveness of the king, but it also expanded the perspectives of those who have been forgiven greatly. Even though the servant was forgiven by his master- king for an extraordinary amount, comparable to millions of dollars, he could not extend forgiveness to his fellow servant who owed him a few dollars. Though the servant had been given a second chance, when he had the power to give someone else a second chance, he refused. We don’t truly realize how much we have been forgiven unless we forgive those who have failed us. Grasping how much we have sinned against God, and His forgiveness toward us, challenges us to give others a second chance, too. When we are unable to forgive, we are not fully grasping the non-restrictive nature of God’s forgiveness. >> This word may be difficult for us to hear and to act upon. Whom do you need to forgive? While this person may never come to you asking for forgiveness, that does not mean you cannot extend it to them.
Have you ever learned something new that changed your perspective about someone or something? I have preached on today’s passage and have listened to others preach from it many times. However, just recently a female student taught me something new about this narrative that I, and others, have likely missed. After a mostly casual conversation with the Samaritan woman, Jesus dove deep into her personal life. He invited her to call her husband (v. 16). She truthfully replied, “I have no husband” (v. 17). Jesus responded with an even fuller version of that truth. She had five husbands and the one she was with currently was not her husband (v. 18). Like many commentators, I was under the impression that she came to the well later in the day, apart from and after the other women, because she was unfaithful and uncommitted. It is reasonable to assume that her sinful lifestyle kept her from community. However, my student suggested that perhaps the reason she had been married so many times was her infertility. If she had been unable to get pregnant, men would have quickly moved on from her. The women in her community would have looked down on her as inferior and disgraced. She herself would have felt a personal shame. Yet, when Jesus encountered her at Jacob’s well, He saw her as precious and valuable. If she was infertile, as my student suggested, others would have considered her as worthless. But when Jesus stepped into her life, her self-worth radically changed. The woman was given another chance and an opportunity to gain eternal life from the only One who could give it. When she eventually realized that Jesus was the Messiah, her new, forever life began. >> We should never write someone off as hopeless simply because of his or her reputation. Following the example given by Jesus, dig deeper into their lives and see how the gospel can give them another chance.
Hall of Fame football player from the Baltimore Raves, Ray Lewis, had ups and downs both on and off the field. He won Super Bowls and awards but was also indicted on charges of murder and aggravated assault. Through it all, Lewis realized that He needed Jesus. “It’s simple,” Lewis says, “if God is for you, who can be against you?” The transformation in Lewis’s life was surprising to those around him. I imagine that at several times in our text today people were shocked at those who turned and followed Jesus. For starters, Jesus invited a tax collector named Levi to follow Him (v. 14). Thus far, the people who followed Him were fishermen, farmers, and others who worked with their hands. Yes, they were sinners, but at least they could lay their heads down at night and say, “God, I know I am a sinner, but at least I am not a tax collector.” Imagine their surprise when Levi, whose profession gave him a horrible reputation, not only followed Jesus but also decided to throw a dinner party with “many tax collectors and sinners” (vv. 14–15). The uninvited Pharisees were conveniently passing by Levi’s house and saw Jesus. They were appalled (v. 16)! Jesus’ response tells the Pharisees that these are the very people who need a second chance. These people, whom many considered social outcasts, were the reason He had come (v. 17). Jesus came for the unexpected and He wanted them to do the unexpected. The Pharisees found it difficult to imagine that God loved tax collectors and sinners, people like you and me. But He does! As a response, we also are to do the unexpected, leave our sinful past, and follow Him. >> If you have not already, join me on the journey of following Jesus. It is perhaps the last thing you, or others, ever expect you to do. Jesus came for you and He wants you follow Him. Do something unexpected today and accept His invitation. Learn more about knowing Christ!
A few years ago, while playing flag football with some students, I forgot I was no longer in my twenties. I dove for a pass, missed, and cracked some ribs. For several weeks it was excruciating to sleep, laugh, and move. My everyday mundane routine turned painful. Eventually, my ribs healed, and I was back to my normal self, but I learned two valuable lessons: (1) I’m not as young as I think I am, and (2) physical injuries can be debilitating. In today’s text, we read about the paralyzed man who was taken to Jesus by his friends in an unorthodox way. In Capernaum, very possibly at the home of Peter, an outside staircase led to a flat roof made of mud and straw. The friends of the paralytic could not get in the crowded house, so they climbed the stairs, made a hole in the roof, and carefully lowered their friend (vv. 1 4). What determination! Nothing would stand in their way of getting their crippled friend in front of Jesus. Not a crowd, not a roof, nothing. However, Jesus’ first words were not what they sought (v. 5). The man came to be physically healed, not to be forgiven of his sins! Nonetheless, Jesus was teaching them a powerful lesson. He had come to the world to be more than a physical healer. He had come to heal people from their sins. This is one of many instances where the teachers of the Law got upset with Jesus and His divine claims (vv. 6–7). But Jesus was on a mission. He was not just healing their bodies but also saving their souls. He came as God’s Son and the Son of Man to forgive sins and offer salvation. >> We tend to focus on our physical ailments, but there is nothing more impossible than the forgiveness of sins. Jesus is the only one with the power to forgive sins. Surrender your life to Him and watch Him do a miracle!
“The problem with the world today is...” “I can’t believe what my boss just did. If I was in charge, I would...” It is easy for us to groan, complain, and wish we could tell others what to do, but do we ever take action to help? Nehemiah was not a prophet or a king. He was serving under the king in Persia when he learned of the problems facing his people. Nehemiah took action, leaving his comfortable position to return to his broken homeland. He was not the first to return to Jerusalem after the exile. Zerubbabel (538 B.C.) and Ezra (458 B.C.) led the first two waves of people. Our text today sheds light on the beginning of Nehemiah’s return (445 B.C). After receiving troubling news about the state of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was struck with compassion. He fell to his knees before God and prayed on behalf of his people (vv. 3–4). God gave Nehemiah a passion to restore Jerusalem and lead people back to the Lord. Nehemiah began his prayer by proclaiming God as transcendent, great, awesome, and covenant- keeping. He acknowledged that he and his people were disobedient sinners (vv. 5–7). Nehemiah did not just finger point but said that everyone (including himself) had sinned against the Lord. He also recognized that if the nation was going to get a second chance, they would have to commit themselves to obey Yahweh (vv. 8–9). He finished his prayer with a specific request and asked for favor before the king. He requested a return to Jerusalem to rebuild the crumbled walls (v. 11). Nehemiah’s prayer was bold and honest because his heart was broken for his people. Instead of merely complaining, his words were prayers for change, and he was ready to act. >> How often do you pray for the problems facing your world, your community, or your workplace? Ask the Lord to provide ways you can make a difference, so you can help restore the broken people around you.
“The problem with the world today is...” “I can’t believe what my boss just did. If I was in charge, I would...” It is easy for us to groan, complain, and wish we could tell others what to do, but do we ever take action to help? Nehemiah was not a prophet or a king. He was serving under the king in Persia when he learned of the problems facing his people. Nehemiah took action, leaving his comfortable position to return to his broken homeland. He was not the first to return to Jerusalem after the exile. Zerubbabel (538 B.C.) and Ezra (458 B.C.) led the first two waves of people. Our text today sheds light on the beginning of Nehemiah’s return (445 B.C). After receiving troubling news about the state of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was struck with compassion. He fell to his knees before God and prayed on behalf of his people (vv. 3–4). God gave Nehemiah a passion to restore Jerusalem and lead people back to the Lord. Nehemiah began his prayer by proclaiming God as transcendent, great, awesome, and covenant- keeping. He acknowledged that he and his people were disobedient sinners (vv. 5–7). Nehemiah did not just finger point but said that everyone (including himself) had sinned against the Lord. He also recognized that if the nation was going to get a second chance, they would have to commit themselves to obey Yahweh (vv. 8–9). He finished his prayer with a specific request and asked for favor before the king. He requested a return to Jerusalem to rebuild the crumbled walls (v. 11). Nehemiah’s prayer was bold and honest because his heart was broken for his people. Instead of merely complaining, his words were prayers for change, and he was ready to act. >> How often do you pray for the problems facing your world, your community, or your workplace? Ask the Lord to provide ways you can make a difference, so you can help restore the broken people around you.
Have you ever noticed how easy it is to complain about your life? The late Andy Rooney from 60 Minutes was a notorious complainer. He once said, “Everything you buy today is smaller, more expensive, and not as good as it was yesterday.” While there may be some truth to his observation, as believers we have many more reasons to rejoice than complain. Psalm 103 is a beautiful reminder of why we should celebrate the great goodness of God and all our second chances. Psalm 103 is an “inclusio,” meaning it starts and ends with the same phrase, “Praise the LORD, O my soul” (vv. 1, 22). David tells us why the Lord is worthy of praise. For instance, the Lord forgives and heals (v. 3), redeems and crowns (v. 4), and satisfies and renews (v. 5). He cares for the oppressed and seeks their justice (v. 6). David reminds his readers of Yahweh’s grace to their ancestors as they were brought out of Egypt and God made them into a nation (vv. 7–10). Many believe that the God in the Old Testament is an angry, wrathful God, but David reminds us that God is compassionate and loving, like a father to his children (vv. 13–18). He concludes his psalm by declaring that everyone, everywhere is to praise the Lord for all His works (vv. 19–22). Praising God may seem difficult in a world of complainers but reading through David’s psalm reminds us how grateful we ought to be. Remembering everything God has done and continues to do for us, gives us opportunity after opportunity to praise and serve Him. >> Praising God means taking time to reflect on what He has done for His people (v. 3), having a holy fear of Him (v. 17), obeying His commands (v. 18), and being obedient to His will (v. 21). Today, let’s praise Him for who He is and what He has done.
When I was pastoring, I heard people say, “I’ve sinned so much, could God really forgive me?” You may have asked this question too. Will God forgive the worst of the worst? Yes! No sin is too great for God’s forgiveness. The Bible shows this is true. There are some awful characters throughout Scripture, but you will be hard-pressed to find anyone more evil than King Manasseh. In our text today, the first nine verses chronicle the wretchedness and carnage performed at the hands of this king. In these few verses we learn that he: (1) desecrated Solomon’s Temple with idols, (2) worshiped pagan gods, (3) murdered his own children as a sacrifice, and (4) led people astray. Clearly, this man was pure evil (vv. 2, 6, 9). Despite the Lord speaking to him, he continually turned a deaf ear (v. 10). He did more to encourage the idolatry that led to the Babylonian invasion and captivity than any other person. His capture by the Assyrians was both brutal and humiliating (v. 11). Yet even though Manasseh was a horridly evil person, God loved him and gave him a second chance. In an astounding turnabout, Manasseh humbled himself and sought God. Through prayer he confessed his sin (v. 19) and acknowledged that Yahweh was God (v. 13). His genuine repentance was evident because when the Lord helped him return to Jerusalem, he changed his way of life and leadership. He made it clear to all that idolatry was an abomination and he would worship Yahweh as God (vv. 15–17). The short chronicle of Manasseh’s life was included in Scripture, so future generations would know how to recover from the sin that led to their captivity. >> Manasseh’s life teaches us that forgiveness is not limited by the amount of sin in our past, but by our eagerness to repent and change our future. How far does God need to go to get your attention? Only humility and repentance stand between you and God’s forgiveness.
Losing someone you love, especially a spouse, is heart wrenching. There is no easy way to move on. Tragedy struck the marriages of a woman named Naomi and her daughter-in-law, Ruth, when they both lost their husbands. Faced with a difficult decision, Ruth displayed her loyalty to Naomi and moved back to Israel to stay by her mother-in-law’s side (Ruth 1:16). Together, the two women sought refuge with a man named Boaz, who, providentially, happened to be Naomi’s family redeemer. The family redeemer, also known as kinsman redeemer, was a cultural practice in Israel where if a man died and left behind a wife and no sons, the family redeemer was responsible to marry and provide for the widow. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, bravery toward Boaz, and character led to her second chance at having a family. In chapter three, Ruth followed Naomi’s instructions and prepared for a life-altering opportunity (vv. 1–4). As Boaz slept, she “uncovered his feet and lay down,” which was essentially a gentle way to wake him up (v. 8). Then she requested he take her in and care for her. Ruth showed her loyalty in her treatment of Naomi, and Boaz affirms it here (v. 11). He calls her a “woman of noble character,” which is the same expression used to introduce the ideal godly woman in Proverbs 31:10. Not only does everyone in the town know Ruth has a godly character, but so does the Lord. While the Lord is never directly mentioned in this story, His providential hand is evident. Ultimately, God gave Ruth a second chance, a husband, and a home, because of her loyalty and faithfulness. >> We will experience hard times, but what we do during those seasons of life reveals truths about who we really are. While we may never get back what we lost, the Lord knows what we need for the future. Like Ruth, we can trust God and obey His commands.
What do Las Vegas, Hong Kong, London, and even your hometown have in common? They are all cities where people need God, even though they won’t admit it. However, that won’t stop God from sending messengers with the gospel. That is what He did for Nineveh. Nineveh had a reputation—and it wasn’t a good one! The prophet Nahum tells us that Nineveh conceived evil plots against God, exploited the helpless, committed war crimes, and encouraged idolatry, prostitution, and witchcraft. It is not surprising that Jonah grew up hating the Ninevites and now feared for his life when God commanded him to go witness to them. But after God saved him from drowning, and he decided to obey, God gave the Ninevites a second chance too (vv. 1–3). Jonah’s words recorded in verse four were most likely the summary of his message to the Ninevites. He emphasized that they would be “overthrown” if they did not repent, like what happened to Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19:25). Their response to God’s word was astonishing! They believed God and put their repentance into action by fasting and covering themselves. Verse five informs the reader that this great awakening moment began with the people and eventually reached all the way to the king. The king then issued a city-wide mandate for everyone to turn from their evil ways (vv. 6–9). God’s mercy was again on display, and He momentarily held back His wrath and judgment on the Ninevites (v. 10). When we obey God’s Word and share it, we may be surprised at how people respond. In a matter of days, God gave a second chance to a wayward prophet and a wayward city. Don’t underestimate how God could use you. >> Is there a Nineveh in your life? Who are the people you would rather avoid? Perhaps God wants you to bring His Word to them? Begin today to pray for them and ask God to soften your heart if He wants you to go.
On June 11, 2021, lobster diver Michael Packard experienced something so rare it is hard to believe. He was swallowed by a humpback whale! Following his release from the hospital, Packard said, “I was completely inside; it was completely black,” Packard said. “I thought to myself, ‘there’s no way I’m getting out of here. I’m done, I’m dead.’ All I could think of was my boys.” Jonah must have had similar thoughts when he was swallowed by a great fish after refusing to prophesy to the Ninevites. While most believers and non-believers are familiar with the story of Jonah, we might overlook his prayer when he was in the belly of the beast. The beginning of his prayer details the horrific experience of nearly drowning. The current swirled around him, the waves crashed overhead, and then he started to drown (v. 3). As he sank to the bottom of the ocean and seaweed wrapped around his head he began to pray (vv. 5–7). Even from the depths of the ocean God still listened to his plea, and the Lord saved him from certain death (v. 7). Do you ever feel like you are drowning in a situation? No matter where you may be, God sees and hears you. Unfortunately, like Jonah, we often wait for times of desperation to cry to Him. Jonah’s life is an example of an inconsistent walk with God. However, he learned that a daily commitment to God meant putting aside idols that hinder a solid relationship with Him. When we cling to idols, we abandon any hope of mercy and grace (v. 8). He realized that second chances take sacrifice and when he finally admitted it and surrendered his life to the Lord, he was saved (vv. 9–10). >> What worthless idols are you clinging to? Your possessions? People? Pride? Don’t lose out on what God wants to do in your life. Your predicament is never too difficult for God.
We know that we are to come before God to confess our sin and to ask for His forgiveness. But have you ever wondered what true confession and repentance look like? Is it simply enough to say, “I’m sorry”? Today’s text is extraordinary because we see into David’s thoughts after the prophet Nathan confronted him regarding his sin with Bathsheba and against Uriah. David begins his confession by recognizing his personal sin (vv. 1–6). He then appeals for God’s mercy (vv. 7–13) and concludes with action and thanksgiving (vv. 14–19). Identifying and acknowledging our sin against God is the first step. David did not deny his sin, but he also affirmed that his primary sin was against the Lord (v. 4). As a result of the Fall, we are all sinners from birth. By nature, we neglect God, giving into our selfish desires (vv. 5–6). David recognized the severity of his sinful nature and expressed his desire to change. He pleaded for forgiveness and began with a request to be cleansed with hyssop (v. 7). In the Old Testament, hyssop branches were used to apply the blood of a lamb over the doorposts prior to the Passover (Ex. 12:22), used in ceremonial cleanings (Lev. 14:4–7), as well as offerings (Num. 19:6). David’s request symbolized his need for spiritual cleansing. He pleaded for the Lord to create a pure heart and renew an unwavering spirit that is in line with God’s will and ways (v. 10). Finally, David desired to put his new life into action for the good of others. His new yearning was to use his forgiven sin to teach others about God. The Lord’s forgiveness gave him a reason to praise God for the rest of his life, and it does the same for you and me too (v. 15). >> Spend time in confession today. As you do, reread David’s prayer and personalize it to fit your situation. Ask the Lord for forgiveness and a renewed heart.
I teach my students that parables in the Bible are like hidden land mines. You don’t know what they are about until the end, and it is usually about you. When you discover the true meaning of a parable, it can be life altering. In 2 Samuel 11, King David was used to being in charge. As ruler, he did not answer to anyone...except the Lord. In today’s reading, God sent the prophet Nathan to rebuke David by using a hidden land mine (2 Sam. 12:11). Nathan’s parable about the young lamb would have appealed to David’s pastoral upbringing as well as his authoritarian responsibilities (vv. 1–4). His reaction for “the rich man” to pay back that which had been lost several times over was in accordance with the law (Ex. 22:1). However, Nathan then pulls the curtain up on his parable and announces to David, “You are the man!” (2 Sam. 12:7). Nathan reminded David of the Lord’s blessings and asked a probing question, “Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes?” (v. 9). The Moody Bible Commentary says, “To despise the Lord suggests holding His Word in contempt and disrespect.” We often forget that when we sin we demonstrate hatred toward God. David finally and rightly confessed his sin (v. 13). Under the Old Testament Law, David’s sin against Uriah warranted the death penalty. Perhaps that’s what he thought he deserved. But Nathan alerted David of an alternate route: “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die” (v. 13). Owning up to our sin is hard. It is much easier to blame others or, like David, hide it. Sometimes we convince ourselves that our actions are justifiable, but we are always accountable to the Lord. >> Ask yourself the same question Nathan asked David in verse nine. Don’t water down what you’ve done or make excuses. Instead, turn to God and ask for forgiveness. He alone can take away our sin! (v. 13).
In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne conceives a child during an affair and is reluctant to name the father. In Puritan Massachusetts in the mid- 1600s, Hester’s punishment involved public shaming. She was ordered to wear a scarlet “A” throughout her life. In Joshua 2 we meet Rahab who was essentially branded with a scarlet letter of adultery. She was one of Jericho’s well-known prostitutes, living inside its massive walls (v. 1). Joshua’s spies assumed that Rahab’s place would be the perfect hiding spot to remain anonymous. But rumors traveled quickly, and the king sent men to scope out her house (v. 3). After hiding the spies and turning the king’s men away, Rahab gives a confession of faith. Rahab expressed that she and all the Jerichoans heard of what Yahweh had done to the other cities and were terrified. However, she turned her fear into reverence, proclaiming her belief in Yahweh’s supremacy. Her expression of trust would have been shocking to the spies, Joshua, the Israelite army, as well as the readers of the book of Joshua. This woman, at whom others looked with judgment and scorn, put her transformed faith into action, kept her commitment to the spies, and tied a scarlet cord on her window to signify which home not to destroy. As early as the first century, commentators such as Clement of Rome, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Origen, and others indicated the scarlet cord as a symbol of Jesus’ blood shed on the cross. Only God can take our scarlet letter of sin and turn it into a scarlet cord of faith. >> We all deserve to wear a scarlet letter that marks our sinfulness. But the good news is that Jesus’ death and resurrection gives us a second chance. If you have not accepted Jesus, turn to Him today. If you know Him, don’t hesitate to share how God has transformed your life. Your past may change someone’s future.
The book of Deuteronomy contains a collection of laws and records Moses’ final words to the Hebrew people before they crossed the Jordan into the promised land. He wanted to remind them of what God had done for them in the past. He also wanted to encourage them to remain faithful and dedicate their lives to the Lord moving forward. Moses explained that when they obeyed God, they would experience blessing. But when they disobeyed, they would experience the negative consequences of their sin (Deuteronomy 27–30). Today’s text highlights God’s generous heart after people turn away from sin and toward Him. Moses reminded the Israelites one last time that God would always receive them with open arms. It is hard for us to fully understand God’s mercy and grace. Moses told them that even if they turned from God and ruined their lives, He would still take them back (vv. 2–5). The phrase “circumcise your hearts” is a metaphor illustrating that their hearts were stubborn and hardened, but God would transform their hearts so they would listen and love Him once again (v. 6). Israel’s blessings became dependent on their obedience to the Lord and following Him with their whole heart, soul, and strength which is known as the Great Shema (Deut. 6:4). Moses lived with these people for decades. He knew their depravity and failings. But before he died, he wanted to remind them that the Lord would always take them back when they were ready to obey and serve Him. Some people cannot learn this lesson until their world has crashed in around them. It is not until they hit rock bottom that the only option left is to look up to God. The good news is that He is always quick to give people another chance. >> Has sin separated you from God’s blessings? No matter how far you have fallen away, God promises a fresh beginning when you turn to Him. Will you do that today?
In the 1920s, golfer David Mulligan was unable to warm up for his first round. He hit a poor drive off the first tee, so, much to the amazement of his playing buddies, he re-teed and hit another ball. He told his playing partners he was taking a “correction shot.” His second chance soon became known as “taking a mulligan.” Sometimes, we all need a mulligan in life. When Moses descended from Mount Sinai, holding the Law of the Lord in his hands, he heard and saw the Israelites worshiping a golden calf. A righteous anger burned inside him, and he destroyed the divine tablets, breaking them into pieces (Ex. 32:19). In our text today, Yahweh commanded Moses to bring Him two new stones up on Mount Sinai (34:1–3). Moses did as he was told and saw another side of Yahweh. As the Lord passed in front of Moses, He revealed His gentleness and compassion and gave Moses and the Israelites another chance. At a time when Yahweh could have removed Himself from the presence of a wicked and idol- worshiping people, He continued to love and forgive their rebellion and sin. Moses again acted as the mediator between the people and God and bridged the gap between the Israelites’ depravity and God’s holiness. Yahweh revealed His character to Moses and used a Hebrew word that means “merciful” but is better translated as “full of compassion.” This is the first time the word is used in the Bible (v. 6). God is also described as gracious (v. 6), meaning that He gives to the undeserving. God’s anger would not get in the way of His love, yet the guilty would not go unpunished (v. 7). Yahweh renewed His covenant with Moses and the Israelites and gave them a second chance (vv. 8–14). >> Perhaps you have a relationship with someone who has been destroyed by sinful actions and hurtful words. Following God’s example, how can you be compassionate and gracious so that the relationship can have a second chance?
We often think of Moses as the rescued baby in a basket, the courageous leader of the Hebrews, or the deliverer of God’s Law. It may be easy to forget that Moses was also a murderer. Today’s text records one of the lowest points in the life of Moses. Leaving the palace, the young man walked among his people who were enslaved by the Egyptians, assigned to hard labor (v. 11). When he saw a person being beaten, he became angry and acted in his defense. He killed the man and buried the body (vv. 11–13). Word of his rash behavior traveled quickly, and Pharaoh plotted to kill him (vv. 14–15). Moses fled from Pharaoh, the Hebrew people, and his past. For the next forty years, he found shelter as a foreigner and started a family in Midian (vv. 21–22). But God did not let Moses’ past alter His plans for his future (vv. 23–25). Around the age of eighty (Acts 7:30) Moses encountered God at a bush that would not burn. Yahweh saw the misery and suffering of His people and decided to deliver them out of bondage. God could have chosen anybody to lead them, but He chose Moses, the murderer. God did not choose Moses because of his past, but because of his future. Moses’ holy fear of the Lord (Ex. 3:6), compassion for the Hebrew slaves, and teachable spirit (v. 11) made him the perfect servant-leader. Even though Moses sinned, God used him to breathe life into a dismayed and wandering people. The foreigners would eventually give birth to a nation. Because of Moses’ second chance, out of that nation would come a true servant- leader who surrendered His life, so everyone could get a second chance. >> You may feel that what you have done in the past makes you unusable by God. Be encouraged. God has plans for your future. Just as God used Moses, He can use you too.
Claudia Black identifies three trademarks of a dysfunctional family in her book, It Will Never Happen to Me: (1) they don’t communicate well (2) they don’t trust one another (3) they don’t allow themselves to be emotional. Let’s face it, most families fall somewhere on the dysfunctional spectrum, including Joseph’s. Joseph’s family was so dysfunctional that his brothers sold him into slavery. But God protected Joseph, moving him from the prison to the palace. Joseph was given a second chance and became Pharaoh’s second in command. But then God gave him the biggest challenge of all. He would come face to face with the ones who had betrayed him the most, his dysfunctional family. Since there was a famine in the land, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt to buy grain (Gen. 42:1–8). When they arrived, they did not recognize Joseph; they thought he was dead. After the brothers journeyed back and forth a few times, Joseph revealed his identity: “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt!” (45:4). To say they were shocked would be an understatement. They were terrified (v. 3). The brother whom they had tormented now held all the power. God may give us a second chance for the sole purpose of giving others a second chance too. It would have been understandable if Joseph put his brothers in prison and threw away the key. But he forgave those who hurt him the most and reunited with his family (vv. 5–7). He knew God had a purpose: “It was not you who sent me here, but God” (v. 8). Because of his position, Joseph was able to provide for his family in their time of need. His brothers were given a second chance because Joseph saw things from God’s perspective (vv. 9–15). >> Are you harboring anger or hate toward someone? Pray that God will give you wisdom to see things from His perspective and offer someone else a second chance too.
Have you ever been forgotten? Perhaps somebody forgot your birthday, or you were overlooked for an award or promotion. In today’s text, we find Joseph forgotten in a prison. He was unjustly arrested, charged, and neglected for more than two years. His hope of a quick deliverance by the cupbearer’s report vanished (Gen. 40:23). For you and me, it would have been hard to contain our frustration and anger. However, Joseph somehow continued to trust God. He realized that what others had meant for evil, God intended for good (Gen. 50:20). The cupbearer eventually remembered Joseph after Pharaoh’s dream could not be explained (vv. 1–13). They quickly retrieved Joseph from the dark, damp dungeon and cleaned him up. They shaved his scraggly beard, gave him a bath, and clean clothes (v. 14). His eyes were probably still adjusting to the sunlight when he was pushed before Pharaoh and told to interpret the dream (v. 15). Then Joseph said something no ruler or king wants to hear: “I cannot do it” (v. 16). We can imagine that an audible gasp came from all those in the room, especially the cupbearer. The only reason Pharaoh requested Joseph was to interpret the dream. Another gasp would have been heard after what Joseph said next, “but God...” Things were not looking good for Joseph, but he used his second chance to rely on God. Even though Joseph did not deserve to be sold into slavery, unjustly arrested, and forgotten, he remained faithful to God. And, in turn, God gave Joseph a second chance. As we conclude the story tomorrow, we’ll see how Joseph’s second chance led to a blessing for not just him but also his entire family. >> You may have been unjustly accused or harmed. Even though there may be times that it feels like God has abandoned you, He knows and sees your situation. When He gives you a second chance, you must decide how to use it.
Violet Jessop was one of the 706 people who survived the Titanic. What sets her apart is that she also survived the destruction of both Titanic’s sister ships. Violet had a will to live and to overcome difficult situations. While you may have not faced “Titanic” hardships, we all face challenges. In Genesis 16, we read about 3 people who faced a difficult situation and handled it poorly. Sarai thought she had all the answers (vv. 1 2), Abram forgot to trust God (vv. 3–4), and Hagar fled from conflict (vv. 5–6). In verse 7, the scene changes to an intense encounter between Hagar and the Lord. Many scholars believe that “the angel of the LORD” (v. 7) was Jesus Christ incarnate. His conversation with Hagar is filled with patience, grace, and truth. He tells Hagar to go back to Sarai and submit to her because her son will play a part in the coming of the Messiah (vv. 9–12). Hagar’s response reveals her mental and spiritual state. She gives Yahweh the name “the God who sees me” (v. 13). In contrast to the false gods of the ancient Near East that were simply statues, poles, or graven images, Yahweh saw and spoke. Yahweh had met with her in her distress. God sees you too! Whatever mess you are in, God sees and listens to you. He knows where you are and what you need. There is no issue you are facing that is too complicated for Him, and He will help you if you let Him. Centuries later the apostle Paul would encourage those who were facing persecution in Rome with similar words, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Rom. 8:28). >> You can never truly run from your problems. You have to face them. But it is best to face them with the Lord by your side because He sees you and hears you.
I am constantly amazed by the mess my young children can make in a short amount of time. A few moments of looking the other way can result in complete chaos. I am left asking, “What have you done?” We start our study on second chances in the Garden of Eden. God’s relationship with His creation was flourishing, and the bond between the Creator and His creation seemed unbreakable. However, Adam and Eve underestimated the power of the enemy and the enticement of sin (vv. 1–6). I am sure Eve did not wake up one morning and say, “Adam, let’s make huge mess of our lives!” But the lure and temptation of sin was in the air, and it was intense. They not only broke God’s commandment but also their relationship with Him (v. 7). Even though God is all-knowing, He came to Adam and Eve with a series of questions. God first asked Adam and Eve to clarify and confess what happened (vv. 9, 11). But His final question revealed His heart: “What is this you have done?” (v. 13). Their choice had broken their relationship with Him. When we make a mess of our lives, it is easy to push the blame onto someone else. Facing the consequences of what we’ve done can be painful, but not taking responsibility can lead to something far worse. Thankfully, we have a God who provided a way to restore our relationship with Him. While the consequences of our actions may sting, because of His love for us, He gave humanity a second chance. Just as death came into the world through the sin of Adam and Eve, a second chance came into the world through Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:21–22). >> Do you need a second chance? We all have areas in our lives that get messy. Be honest with God and open your heart to recognizing your need for forgiveness. Ask the Lord to help you clean up your mess.
My family has a tradition at dinner time. We normally sing the Doxology as a prayer before we eat, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” This is a special and appropriate way to end each day, praising God and reminding each other of how He provides for us. In a similar way, the Book of Psalms ends with a rousing call to praise. In Psalm 150, the Psalmist commands the congregation to “Praise the Lord” twelve times! Normally, praise psalms not only call people to praise God but also provide reasons to do so. Psalm 150 is unusual in this regard. It does not give any reasons to praise God. Perhaps this is because in the concluding psalm, the Psalmist knows that reasons galore have already been provided throughout the Psalter. We have come a long way since our journey through the Psalter began. We know that life is not always easy. There have been many laments in this book which describe the problem of enemies, sickness, sin, and turmoil. However, throughout the Psalms we see the stabilizing presence of God. He is the one who created us, cares for us, hears our prayer, and works for our salvation. It is appropriate then to be reminded of all that God has done and will do at the end of this book. In some ways, this ending foreshadows the ending of the Bible in Revelation. After all the trials and tribulations that the people of God will go through, Revelation also ends on a rousing note of praise, “Hallelujah! For the Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!” (Rev. 19:6–7). >> When we praise God today, we not only recount all that He has done for us in Christ but also look forward to His Second Coming when all things will be made new. Revelation reminds us, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20). Hallelujah indeed!
In his book Reflections on the Psalms, C. S. Lewis describes why people so naturally praise: “I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment...it is frustrating to have discovered a new author and not be able to tell anyone how good he is...the delight is incomplete till it is expressed.” In today’s reading, the Psalmist is delighted in God and wants everyone to join in the praise. He is not content until the entire universe directs its reverence to God. Twelve times in this poem, the Psalmist commands different groups of people or parts of the created world to “praise!” In verses 1–4, the Psalmist looks up and commands the “heavens... heights... angels... heavenly hosts... sun... moon... and stars” to praise the Lord. They should delight to praise God because He created them and sustains them (vv. 5–6). The only appropriate response is to use the existence God gave to point people to Him. The command for the sun, moon, and stars to praise God is especially striking in an ancient context. Most people around Israel worshiped the sun, moon, and stars as gods. The Psalmist is clear that they are not gods, but a part of God’s created world. In verses 7–12, the Psalmist looks around and calls upon the earth, creatures of the sea, the ocean, storms, mountains, trees, all animals, and all people from king to commoner and from young to old to praise the Lord. As God’s creatures they find their fulfillment in ascribing to God His worth. This psalm should make you feel as if you are a part of a stadium filled to the brim with raucous, ecstatic jubilation, celebrating God. God is faithful. He has kept His promises to Israel, His covenant people. >> Praise God! Join the celebration and spend time praising God throughout the day. By yourself or with others, lift your hands and acknowledge that our God reigns. He is Lord of lords and King of kings!
Almost 600 years before Jesus was born, the Babylonian army stormed Jerusalem, destroyed the city and Temple, and carried off most of the population into exile. By historical standards, this should have been the end of Israel as a nation. In the ancient world, most people believed that if your nation was defeated in battle, so were its gods. It would have been easy for Israel to lose faith. But a generation or two later, the unthinkable happened. They were allowed to return to their land and rebuild their city and Temple. Today’s reading is a praise psalm that gives thanks to God for this miraculous restoration. The Psalmist declares, “The LORD builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel” (v. 2). Israel’s restoration clearly demonstrated the power of God. God’s power is also seen in creation. When you look at the night sky, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the size of the universe and the number of stars. The Psalmist proclaims, “He determines the number of the stars; and calls them each by name” (v. 4). Truly his “understanding has no limit” (v. 5). God supplies rain to make grass and wheat grow (v. 8). God sends snow and ice in the winter, then melts it and brings new life in the Spring (vv. 16–18). Most significantly, God cares about His people. He does not delight in the strongest or most powerful, but in those who trust in Him (vv. 10–11). To be great in God’s eyes, one needs only to look to Him as the source of life and salvation. The Psalmist rejoices that God has given Israel His Word (vv. 19–20). We do not have to wonder what God is like or what he desires. He has clearly revealed Himself to us. >> Today’s reading calls us to trust in God who created the world, who oversees the weather, who revealed His Word, and who redeemed Israel from captivity. Praise God with the Psalmist today!
One of the best-known choral works in the western world is Handel’s Messiah. Early in its history, a curious custom developed. The audience would stand for the “Hallelujah Chorus,” sung at the end of the second movement. Popular tradition holds that this practice originated during the London premier when King George II stood during this song, requiring everyone else to do so as well. Psalms 146–150 begin and end with the Hebrew phrase “Hallelujah,” translated as “Praise the LORD.” You might say that these last five psalms are the “Hallelujah Chorus” of the Psalter. In today’s reading, verses 2–3 demonstrate an important truth. After declaring to “praise the LORD all of my life,” the Psalmist then warns Israel to “not put your trust in princes.” There is a big contrast here between trusting in God, the King of kings, and trusting in earthly rulers. When we praise God, it helps to center us and remind us where our true hope lies. Our allegiance is not primarily to things of this world. We are people “whose hope is in the LORD their God” (v. 5). In the second half of the psalm, the Psalmist recounts several attributes of God as reasons to praise Him. He reminds us that God cares deeply about the oppressed, the poor, prisoners, the blind, orphans, and widows (vv. 7–9). Not only does this remind us of how compassionate God is, but it also serves as a model for us to follow. If God cares for these vulnerable people, we should as well. Praising God should inspire us to acts of compassion and mercy. >> We have been given a model of compassion and mercy in Jesus! The Son of God and Messiah of Israel spent much of His life preaching good news to the poor, feeding the hungry, healing the sick, and showing compassion on the lowly (Luke 4:16–21). How can we follow in His footsteps?
Every year different organizations host a Pi competition. In this competition, contestants recite as many digits of the number Pi as they can from memory. The current world record was set by Suresh Kumar Sharma who recited 70,030 digits over the course of 17 hours. The interesting thing about this competition is that no one will ever master it. The number of digits in Pi is infinite. Yet, that does not keep people from trying! In some ways this has a parallel with Psalm 145. Near the beginning of this praise psalm, David admits that God’s greatness is such that “no one can fathom” it (v. 3). It is not possible to fully articulate God’s attributes or to describe His nature. Yet, that does not keep David from praise. This Psalm praises God from A to Z! David reminds Israel that praise continues from one generation to the next: “One generation commends your works to another” (v. 4). The next few verses put this into action. The new generation praises God and David responds, “They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty / and I will meditate on your wonderful works” (v. 5). One of the joys of worshiping in church is when the elderly and youth, believers of every generation, join in praising God side by side. David rehearses many of God’s attributes, “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love” (v. 8). He does not tire of recounting what God has done. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). He is the true king and sovereign over all creation (vv. 1, 13). >> A good exercise today might be to try to write one line of praise to God for each letter of the English alphabet. While we will never fully express the magnitude of God’s greatness, it is worth the try.
From the time of the early church, some psalms were set apart for use during times of repentance and confession of sin. By the 5th century, this group of psalms was known as the “Seven Penitential Psalms.” They model how sinful people should approach God. The seventh of these psalms is Psalm 143. In this poem, David does not confess a specific sin, but he acknowledges his sinful nature. He confesses that “no one living is righteous before you” (v. 2). The apostle Paul used this verse to ground his teaching—all have sinned and fallen short of God’s standard (Rom. 3:20; Gal. 2:16). David realizes that his suffering could be the result of God’s judgment. He prays to God to deliver him, not because of his righteousness but because of God’s faithfulness (Ps. 143:1). His trust is not in himself, but in God: “I have put my trust in you” (v. 8). David has good reason to trust in God. He muses, “I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done” (v. 5). He knows the stories of the Exodus, of Deborah, and Gideon. Israel did not deserve to be saved, but God heard the prayers of His people. David’s difficult situation made him long for God more than ever. He says that he longs for God like parched ground longs for water (v. 6). He knows he needs God’s saving help. He asks for God not only to deliver him from his enemies but also to teach and guide him in the way he should live (v. 10). >> David models for us how to approach God in humility and faith. Remember today that we are dependent upon God not only for our eternal salvation but also for each breath we make. Our hope in life and death is that we belong to God.
It can be challenging to be honest with yourself. We tend to give ourselves the benefit of the doubt and assume the best of our own intentions. This is especially true when we face conflict. We are quick to assume that we are right, and our opponent is clearly wrong! In today’s reading, David turns to God in prayer because his enemies were trying to trap him. But instead of praying immediately against them, David turned his focus inward. He wanted to make sure his heart was right before God. His request focused on three areas. He prayed that God would protect him from saying the wrong thing (v. 3). Words are powerful. They can build people up and tear them down. It is easy to say a damaging word in the heat of conflict. David prayed that God would guard his mouth, that he would only speak words that were right and true. David prayed that he would not join the wicked (v. 4). He understood the lure of living for oneself and not for God. He prayed, “Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil...along with those who are evil doers” (v. 4). Finally, David prayed that he would accept godly correction, “Let a righteous man strike me—that is a kindness; let him rebuke me—that is oil on my head” (v. 5). He knew there would be times when he would need a faithful friend to speak a hard truth. He prayed that he would have an open and receptive heart. A good summary of David’s heart toward God in this psalm is found in verse 8: “But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord.” >> Certainly, we can relate to David’s desire to keep his heart pure and his eyes focused on God. As the Lord Jesus reminded us, no matter what we face, we are to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” (Matt. 6:33).
There is almost nothing worse than being falsely accused of a crime or indiscretion. Not only is it difficult to prove your innocence, but your name is tarnished. For many people in this position, their reputation is permanently damaged. This is the kind of situation David faced. He was confronted by people who used their cunning, intelligence, and social connections to try to bring him down (vv. 1–2). Their attacks against him came in the form of lies, “the poison of vipers is on their lips” (v. 3). Like skillful hunters, they laid traps and snares to catch him (v. 5). People have not changed much since David’s day. They still attack one another with malicious words. In this age of social media, verbal attacks have become common and damaging. What does faithfulness to God look like when we are attacked? David turned to God in prayer. He vividly described his situation to God knowing that God cared about him and about the truth. He confessed that God was his most secure refuge, “you shield my head in the day of battle” (v. 7). He prayed that his enemies’ plans would fail (v. 8). More than that, he prayed that their evil actions would rebound upon them (v. 9). It is important to note that David is expressing his anger to God, but leaves the results in God’s hands. His ultimate desire was not for wanton cruelty toward his enemies, but that justice would be done (v. 12). We can be confident today that every evil ever committed will either be justly forgiven because of Christ’s sacrifice, if the perpetrator turns to God in repentance and faith, or will be justly punished. Nothing escapes God’s notice. >> The psalms help us express our emotions to God, feelings of joy, sorrow, and even anger. Even after this study is complete, try reading one psalm every day. Use the Psalms during your prayer time, to help you turn to God in every situation.
This past summer my family and I had the opportunity to visit the famous prison island, Alcatraz. The most severe punishment an inmate could experience there was to be placed in solitary confinement. There is almost nothing worse than to feel completely alone and abandoned. In today’s reading, David was threatened by enemies all around (vv. 19–24). In that situation it would be easy to believe that God had abandoned him. To counter this idea, David reminds himself of important truths about God. First, we are fully known by God. God knows what we are doing and thinking. He declares, “before a word is on my tongue, you, LORD, know it completely” (v. 4). Second, God is present everywhere. We are never alone. Even if we journey to the furthest corner of the earth or to the deepest part of the sea, “even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast” (v. 10). Even in the midst of threatening enemies, God is right there with us. Third, God cares about us. Before David was born, God is the one who “knit me together in my mother’s womb” (v. 13). David’s life (and ours!) is under the sovereign care of God (v. 16). All three of these ideas were counter-cultural in David’s world. Most people believed that the gods were confined to particular places. The gods also did not know everything or care deeply about their worshipers. Some people even thought the gods required child sacrifice. David knew that God is different. He values human life even in the womb (vv. 13–14). >> As God’s child, you are never alone. During political turmoil, a pandemic, sickness, or loss God has not abandoned us. Sometimes we need to be reminded that one of the final promises that Jesus made to us was: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20).
Often, we don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone. As I am writing this, my ankle is in a walking cast. The experience has made me long for the days when I could walk normally, and I look forward to being able to do so soon! Psalm 138 is written from the perspective of those living outside Israel. We can be sure that the exiles longed for all that was in their past. They were surrounded by opposing beliefs and cultural practices. But instead of being tempted to give in and worship the gods of foreign lands, David declares that “before the ‘gods’ I will sing your praise” (v. 1). You and I also live in a culture surrounded by other gods, including wealth, influence, pleasure, and power. When we praise God as being the sole object worthy of praise, we are also naming and condemning the idols and idol worship that surrounds us. Only one way is the true way. Perhaps because of the exposure to other gods, the Psalmist has a deepened appreciation for the God of Israel. He recounts what makes our God unique: “Though the LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar” (v. 6). Although God is the Creator of the universe and Lord of all people, he still cares for and sees the humble. God’s compassion and faithfulness to His covenant is on full display. Because of God’s greatness, the Psalmist prays, “May all the kings of the earth praise you, LORD, when they hear what you have decreed” (v. 4). He desires that people from all the nations will join him in worshiping the God of Israel. >> We can be grateful that we worship the one, true and living God! Today, reflect on God’s compassion and care. He sees and knows you (v. 6). Remember the times He has delivered you in the past (v. 3) and anticipate His faithfulness now and in the future.
In 586 BC, the Babylonian army invaded Jerusalem destroying the city and the Temple. They took many people captive and forced them into exile. Today’s reading provides a glimpse of how God’s people responded to their situation. Psalm 137 opens with a heartbreaking description: “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion” (v. 1). To make matters worse, their Babylonian captors taunted them by asking them to sing songs that celebrated Jerusalem (v. 3). They were the people who had destroyed the city. It was the kind of request a bully would make to shame someone weaker than them. The people recognized that they could not bring themselves to sing about Jerusalem, but they did not want to forget the city either (vv. 4–5). They understood that in exile it would probably be easier if they could just forget about Jerusalem and assimilate into Babylonian life. But that would mean turning their back on who they were and on God’s promised restoration. The psalm takes a dark turn in verses 7–9. The people ask God to remember the atrocities that the Edomites and Babylonians did to them and not to let them go unpunished. Israel’s exile was due to their own sin and unfaithfulness to the covenant. Still, the Babylonians and Edomites went above and beyond the demands of justice in their behavior toward Israel (Lam. 4:22; Ezek. 35:15; Jer. 50). In this lament, the people vent their anger and frustration to God and beg Him to act. In voicing their disturbing feelings toward their oppressors, they are giving these feelings over to God. >> It is good to know that when we walk through difficult times, we can be honest to God in our prayers. Be reassured that God cares about justice and will one day right all wrongs. But because of Christ’s death and resurrection, there is also room for forgiveness and grace even for our enemies if they turn to Him in repentance and faith.
When I put my children to bed at night, I remind them that I love them. They already know this. I have told them thousands of times. But the repetition has a purpose. I want them to know that they are loved and that my love for them has not changed. In today’s reading, the Psalmist repeats the same line 26 times. This could be because the psalm was originally sung antiphonally with a worship leader singing the first line and the congregation the second. But there is more significance to it than that. The repeated line is “His love endures forever.” The word “love” used here communicates “commitment” or “faithfulness.” Just like the line repeats again and again, the Psalmist is emphasizing that God is not going to give up on His people. God’s unfailing love is celebrated through His amazing works. Some- times we need to be reminded of what God has done. God is the Creator. He made the sun, moon, and stars (vv. 5–9). When we gaze at the night sky, we are humbled by its immensity and power. But for God it is simply one of the many things He made. In the ancient world, most people believed that the sun, moon, and stars were gods to be worshiped. This hymn reminds Israel that they are objects that God created for His own purpose. God is our Redeemer. This hymn celebrates God’s deliverance of Israel from bondage (vv. 10–15). God’s redemption did not stop there. The New Testament proclaims that through Jesus, we have been redeemed from our slavery to sin and death (Rom. 6:17–18). God is our Provider. He loves us by providing our daily bread both physically and spiritually (vv. 23–25). >> Before you finish your devotional time, join with the Psalmist in praising God. Sing to Him or thank God for His enduring love. Go forward today knowing that you are loved by God who created, redeemed, and continually provides for you.
The worship of idols was an important part of life for Israel’s neighbors. Skilled craftsmen created idols from the finest materials available. Priests would perform elaborate ceremonies to endow the idol with the presence of the god. The idol would then be treated as royalty. The object would be clothed and “fed” with the best, treated with awe and reverence. Today’s reading is a rousing praise psalm to remind Israel that the Lord is greater than the gods of the nations. It was also a stern reminder to Israel that worshiping idols was foolish. These idols were “silver and gold, made by human hands” (v. 15). They had mouths, eyes and ears that did not work (vv. 16 18). These gods could never save or deliver like the Lord. The psalm reminds Israel that the Lord is the One who delivered them from Egypt and brought them into the land of Canaan (vv. 8–12). Living in the twenty-first century, it is easy to think we are immune to the danger of worshiping idols. But an idol is anything in which we place our allegiance, trust, or hope instead of God. An idol could be our reliance on social media for affirmation or the hope we entrust to politicians. There are hundreds of ways we can fall into the trap of idol worship. An added danger is that we become similar to what we worship (v. 18). The good news is that if we worship God, we will grow to become like Him. As Paul explained, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory” (2 Cor. 3:18). >> One of the benefits of praise is that it reminds us who God is, so that we do not fall into the trap of idol worship. Today listen to a praise song that reminds of God’s character. If you need a suggestion, start with the hymn “O Worship the King.”
One of the most powerful books about Christian community is Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life Together. Written during the Nazi regime, it says, “The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community.” Our dream of what Christian community should be may prevent us from experiencing it. The reality may not live up to our dreams. Bonhoeffer shifts our focus away from imaginary Christian fellowship, urging us instead to love the flesh-and-blood people around us. Psalm 133 celebrates unity within the worshiping community: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (v. 1). The word “God’s people” literally means “brothers.” Anyone who has grown up with brothers or sisters knows that siblings do not always live in unity. From Cain and Abel to the latest church meeting, evidence of brothers and sisters fighting is all around us. Despite this reality, Psalm 133 reminds us of how powerful it is when (with God’s help) we live in unity. The psalm uses two metaphors to celebrate our spiritual unity. First, unity is compared to oil running down a person’s head. The imagery here comes from Exodus 29 where instructions were given on how to consecrate priests. Anointing oil represented a time of celebration in the presence of God. When we are unified in God, we are set apart to celebrate and worship Him as one. Second, unity is like the dew on Mt. Hermon. This area is well known for its heavy dew which results in lush and vibrant vegetation. This life-giving image is transferred to the more arid region of Zion. The dew shows us how Christian community brings life and blessing. >> Have you experienced unity within the body of Christ? What things do we do that divide us? What can you do to promote this type of life-giving, refreshing unity among your brothers and sisters in the Lord?
In January 2020, the German government announced that they had created a “help desk” for families who were trying to recover artwork looted by the Nazis during World War II. For many families, the paintings represent an important connection to parents or grandparents who had died in the Holocaust. There was a sense of joy and relief when a long-lost piece of art was returned home. Psalm 132 tells of two important commitments. The first was David’s commitment to return the Ark of the Covenant back to its central location in Israel’s worship. He “swore an oath” and “made a vow” not to rest until this job was completed (vv. 2–5). The Ark was not lost. After its capture by the Philistines and subsequent return, it had been residing at Kiriath Jearim (1 Sam. 4–6). The Ark of the Covenant represented God’s presence among His people and needed to be treated with respect. David was eventually successful in bringing the Ark into Jerusalem at a temporary dwelling until the Temple could be built (2 Sam. 6). This provided a focal place for Israel to worship the Lord. The second commitment was made by the Lord to David. He promised that a descendant of David would sit on the throne in Israel “for ever and ever” (Ps. 132:12). He also committed to dwell in Jerusalem and bless it (vv. 13–16). But we should not skip past the “if” statement in verse 12. God expected David’s descendants to be faithful to the Law. If they disobeyed God, there would be consequences, including exile to Babylon and the destruction of the Temple. Even so, God promised that He would ultimately keep his commitment to David (v. 11). >> Jesus is the promised descendant of David (Rom. 1:1–6). Today, Jesus reigns at the right hand of the Father. And, we look forward to the day when He will come again (Rev. 20:4–6). Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s commitment to David and to us!
To be human is to suffer. This is true for Christians as well. Not only do we suffer the normal pains and griefs common to all people, but Jesus promised that we might also suffer because of our allegiance to Him (John 15:18). Jesus did not promise to take our sufferings away in this life. Author George MacDonald put it this way: “The Son of God suffered unto the death, not that men might not suffer, but that their sufferings might be like His.” Psalm 130 opens with the anguished cry, “Out of the depths I cry to you, LORD” (v. 1). The depths described here by the Psalmist are any place that feels desperate. The Psalmist does not try to hide his suffering or pretend it is not happening. Instead, he accepts its reality while also embracing the reality of God. In his time of need, he turns to God and asks for mercy (v. 2). The Psalmist recognizes that some suffering is the result of sin. Since all have sinned, God would be justified in allowing suffering to be our primary experience both in this life and the next. But the Psalmist knows something else about God. God delights to forgive (v. 4). God made a way for people to be forgiven through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. When this psalm was written, the cross was a future event. However, the sacrificial system pointed to it. Sometimes when we are suffering, we may wonder, “What can we do?” The Psalmist tells us there is something we can do—wait (Ps. 130:5–6). Waiting is not a passive response; it is an expression of hope in God. We wait while recognizing that God is in control. >> Whatever you are waiting for, whatever situation you find yourself in, know that God is on the throne. You can be confident, “for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption” (Ps. 130:7).
My wife and I will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary this year. As we look back on the last two decades, we are grateful for the many blessings God has allowed us to experience. Things like having children and ministry opportunities. We are also grateful for the trials and difficulties that He brought us through. Both are reasons to praise God. When Israel looked back on its history in today’s reading, it celebrated not what it had achieved as a nation but what it had survived. From the time of its infancy as slaves in Egypt, Israel had been repeatedly threatened and invaded by foreign powers. The Midianites, Amalekites, Moabites, Edomites, Philistines, and on and on. The list of their oppressors is a long one. In a vivid image, the Psalmist compares the violence these nations have done to Israel to a farmer plowing a field (v. 3). Israel had suffered time and time again. But the Lord had been with Israel even in those difficult times. The Psalmist declares, “But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked” (v. 4). There are many examples in the Old Testament of God delivering and saving Israel. This demonstrates God’s righteous character. The psalm concludes by turning to the present. The Psalmist sees many in Israel who had turned their back on the Lord. They “hate Zion” (v. 5). This is more than just the disdain of a rural resident for the city. Zion was where God chose to dwell among Israel. These people had abandoned God and were working against what He was doing in the world. The Psalmist prays that their efforts would not succeed (vv. 6–8). God would once again come to save. >> The apostle Paul reminds us as believers today that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the “spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:12). We can pray today that God will not allow evil to triumph.
Did you know that we were created to work? God designed work as a good thing, reminding the Israelites: “Six days you shall labor and do all your work” (Ex. 20:9). Through work, we can feed the hungry, create beautiful pieces of art, disseminate knowledge, construct homes, and create life-sustaining products. However, our God-ordained relationship with work has been tainted by sin. Psalm 127 speaks into our often frantic and restless relationship with work. The psalm opens by reminding us that “Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain” (v. 1). Notice that the Psalmist doesn’t say that work is altogether bad. He does not say, “God builds and watches over us, so you might as well go home and relax.” The message of the psalm is in the “unless.” Unless we recognize that our work is in the context of God’s greater work. Unless we remember that our success in everything is dependent upon God. Unless we keep God at the center, our work becomes useless. It is possible to work hard and achieve nothing of eternal value. Psalm 127 reminds us that we should orient our work toward God. God is at work in the world and has given us the joy and responsibility of joining Him in that work. Children are an example of this. For many of us, our children represent the most significant and lasting impact we will have on the world (vv. 3–5). When our powers of work begin to wane with age, our children will be coming into their prime of life. While our work in their lives may be nearing an end, God created them, and He will continue to work through them. >> Today, whether you work in an office or at home, let everything you do be infused with an awareness that the One you serve is God Himself! Praise God today for the joy of participating in His work in the world.
Fear and anxiety are rampant in our world. It is easy to understand why. The pandemic reminded us of the fragile nature of our lives, jobs, and the economy. While there are days when life feels precarious, today’s psalm describes how God’s people remained secure and joyful in a world just as uncertain as our own. If you stand on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem today and look around, you will notice that the city is surrounded by hills. The Psalmist sees this geographical feature and draws a spiritual lesson, “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people” (125:2). Those who trust in the Lord have placed their trust in a secure source. As believers today, sometimes we need to be reminded that God cares about us and desires our good. In John 17, Jesus prayed for His disciples, “Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name” (v. 11). In a world riddled by fear, we can be confident in our relationship with God. We can pray with expectation for peace (Ps. 125:5). Because of their idolatry and sin, Israel had been exiled to Babylon. This must have seemed like the end to many who were forcefully relocated thousands of miles from their homeland. But God was not through with Israel. After 70 long years, Cyrus issued a decree to allow the people of Israel to return home. Psalm 126 expresses the wonder and joy experienced at this answer to prayer, “Our mouths were filled with laughter, and our tongues with songs of joy” (v. 2). Joy should be a mark of God’s people. >> Even when things look uncertain in our lives, we should remember that our deepest needs have already been met on the cross. Laughter and joy are hallmarks of those who have experienced God’s grace. Spend a few minutes today thanking God for all He has done for you and let Him fill you with joy.
It can be easy for our prayer life to devolve into a series of requests: “God, can you help me with X...? Can you bring healing to Y...?” And on and on. This is not necessarily a bad thing. Jesus invited us, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matt. 7:7). The problem comes when we start envisioning our relationship with God as a customer to vendor or a supervisor to underling. Psalm 123 reminds us of our proper standing before God. We do not look down on God or view Him as an equal. Instead, the Psalmist proclaims, “I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven” (v. 1). God is enthroned over the universe. Our relationship with Him is of servant to master (v. 2). Being a child of God means waiting upon Him, attending His word and obeying. We are at His service. Being God’s servant has benefits. We can expect Him to hear when we call. The Psalmist had been ridiculed and mocked by scoffers (v. 4). Because the Psalmist was God’s servant, this was a problem for God as well. Would God allow His servant to be treated poorly? It could be that God had His own purpose for this situation. But this psalm models for us that it is appropriate to ask God to intervene when we face a difficult situation. Psalm 124 continues this theme of calling to God for deliverance from an enemy. Only God could save Israel. They were delivered because they serve the “Maker of heaven and earth” (v. 8). >> These psalms remind us that God is the sovereign, and we are His servants. We are dependent upon Him for all things. But He also cares deeply for us. Whatever you may be facing today, you can call on God and know that He cares.
For thousands of years Jews and Christians have made pilgrimages to Jerusalem. It is easy to understand why. Jerusalem plays a central role in both the Old and New Testaments. It is the place where Abraham was called to sacrifice Isaac, where David brought the ark of the covenant, where the Temple was built, where Jesus was crucified, and where Pentecost took place. In the Old Testament it was the place where God chose to dwell (Deut. 12:4–5; Ps. 135:21). Three times a year, Israelites were to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to worship at the Temple. These times were a high point in their lives, “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD.” (v. 1). To become close to the presence of the Lord was a privilege and a joy. Part of the reason for Israel’s joy was the unity brought by worshiping together. David describes Jerusalem as a city “closely compacted together” (v. 3). That might sound like urban congestion to us, but it was a positive image for him. God’s people were united in Jerusalem to “praise the name of the LORD” in obedience to His Word (v. 4). The psalm ends with a prayer for peace. This is a play on the name “Jerusalem,” which means “city of peace.” Peace in Hebrew means more than just the absence of conflict. It is a rich concept that means things are the way they should be. Our relationship with God, one another, and the world is as it was designed to be. It is a prayer for wholeness, abundance, and integrity. >> Are you longing for a fresh infusion of hope? This psalm looks forward to a time when all things will be made new. We will be in the very presence of God in the New Jerusalem and there will be “no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Rev. 21:4). Amen, come Lord Jesus.
When my youngest daughter was two, she received a cut on her cheek and needed stitches. As the doctor started to administer the medical care she needed, she looked at her mother and me with a pleading look. She wanted us to get her out of this rather strange and uncomfortable situation. When we are scared or in distress, we naturally look for someone who can help us. In Psalm 120, the poet is in a difficult situation. He is being attacked by “lying lips” and “deceitful tongues” (v. 2). Words are powerful. They can create hope and express joy. They can also cut and wound, creating strife and conflict. That is the scene here. While the Psalmist desires peace, his enemies lie to provoke war (v. 7). Lies and deception are difficult to combat. It is easy to feel helpless when we face opposition. What can be done? Psalm 121 serves as a kind of response to the plight described in Psalm 120. The Psalmist declares, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (vv. 1–2). Psalms 120 and 121 are part of the “Psalms of Ascent” (120–134). This group of psalms was written for pilgrims making their way to one of the annual festivals at the Temple in Jerusalem. So, when the Psalmist says that he lifts his eyes to the mountains, he is thinking of Jerusalem. He is looking to the Lord. The psalm ends with a promise of protection. God cares deeply for His people, and He will protect them (vv. 5–8). >> When we are in a tough situation, the Psalmist’s advice is powerful: “Lift up your eyes!” Look to God who created the universe and is able to meet our needs. There may be times when it is difficult for us to see how God is caring for us. But we can look to Him for help.
Relationships change us. If we have a close friend or spouse that we share life with, it is inevitable that they will impact how we think and behave. In Psalm 119, the author has had a close relationship with God through studying His Word. He has immersed himself in Scripture and now crafts a poem testifying the enormous impact Scripture has had on him. How has he been changed? The Psalmist recognizes his deep dependence upon God for all things, even asking God to help him understand His Word. He declares, “I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes” (v. 125). As he grew in his knowledge of God’s Word, his dependence upon God for understanding grew as well (v. 105). The Psalmist delighted in and loved Scripture. Ten times he uses the word “delight” in reference to God’s Word. He regularly confesses that he loves Scripture, “Oh how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long” (v. 97). Or, “their hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law” (v. 70). The wicked here are described as unfeeling, while the Psalmist is filled with delight. Apart from God, people tend to love the wrong things. One of the benefits of meditating on God’s Word is that we grow to love what God loves and hate what He hates. The author expresses a whole-hearted devotion to Scripture. This means that he does not just crack it open once in a while, but it is his persistent meditation. He reflects on it at night (v. 55), midnight (v. 62), all day long (v. 97), and even seven times a day (v. 164). >> When you are devoted to someone, you spend time with them, listen carefully to them, and really seek to understand them. That is the kind of devotion the Psalmist expresses here. May we also grow in our love for God’s Word and allow it to change us!
Imagine that you spent your entire life studying Scripture and trying to live it faithfully. What would your life look like? How would you relate to God and others? Psalm 119 shows us, in this carefully and lovingly crafted poem, what it looks like to love the Lord and His Word. Psalm 119 mentions God’s Word 176 times: “I remember, LORD, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them” (v. 52). The Psalmist uses eight different words to refer to Scripture: law, statutes, ordinances, commands, words, decrees, promises, and judgments. The Psalmist also refers to himself 176 times. But there is one more important repetition. The word “You” is used to reference God 232 times. The Psalmist is celebrating His relationship with God through the gift of His Word. “Teach me knowledge and good judgment for I trust your commands” (v. 66). Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, and it’s carefully constructed. Each stanza starts with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. So, the first eight lines all start with the equivalent of the letter “A”. The next with the letter “B” and so on. This is a celebration of God’s Word from A to Z! As the Psalmist immersed himself in Scripture, he discovered that God’s Word is righteous (vv. 7, 62, 75), faithful (v. 30), good (v. 39), trustworthy (v. 66), true (v. 69), and precious (v. 72). Because of this, he values Scripture above all things. “The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold” (v. 72). Certainly, the gift of God’s Word is something to treasure! >> Do you consider your Bible the most valuable thing you own? Give thanks to God today for the gift of His written word. Tomorrow we will examine the impact that a lifetime of meditation on Scripture had on the Psalmist.
The Hallel Psalms are a set of six Psalms, 113–118. These psalms of praise were sung by God’s people on joyous occasions. Psalm 118 is the final song in the collection and was sung to celebrate Passover. In fact, this was probably the hymn which Jesus and His disciples sang at their last Passover supper together. In this song of thanksgiving, the worship leader calls Israel to confess that God’s faithful love endures forever (Ps. 118:1–5). Israel was not delivered from Egyptian slavery because they had a powerful army or brilliant military tactics. Rather, they were delivered because they trusted in our great and powerful God. The psalm reminds Israel that “It is better to trust in the LORD than to trust in humans. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes” (vv. 8–9). As Israel streamed toward the Temple to celebrate Passover, they would remember not only God’s deliverance from Egypt but also His work in saving them from their foes in their past: the Philistines, Midianites, and the Amalekites to name just a few (vv. 10–14). Remembering what God had done in the past encouraged Israel to trust Him with their present and future. As the psalm celebrates what God has done in the past, it also looks forward to a future deliverer (vv. 22–26). When Jesus was faced with the unbelief and opposition of the teachers of the law and priests, He reminded of them of this psalm: “Haven’t you read this passage of Scripture: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes’?” (Mark 12:10–11). God’s salvation demands a response of faith and gratitude. >> The same words start and end our reading: “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever” (vv. 1, 29). Pause today to thank God for what He has done in your past and what He has promised to do in the future.
When I was a child, our church held services on Sunday evening. The service had a unique element in it. Often, the pastor would ask if anyone would like to share how God had been at work in their life. Listening to respected adults share about God in such a personal way made a huge impact on me. They would tell of answered prayers or how God had comforted them during a troubled time. Psalm 116 is a testimony. We do not know exactly what kind of trouble the Psalmist was facing, but he describes his desperate situation with great emotion, “The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came over me; I was overcome by distress and sorrow” (v. 3). Death seemed like a real possibility. But when the Psalmist cried out to God for help, God answered. God was true to His character. The Psalmist rehearses the attributes of God from Exodus 34:6–7 (v. 5). In contrast to God’s faithfulness, people are often untrustworthy (v. 11). But God hears prayer and responds. God’s deliverance prompted the Psalmist to publicly proclaim what He had done (vv. 13–14). In this context, verse 15 stands out as a bit odd. It says, “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants.” You might say to yourself, “Didn’t he just pray for deliverance from death?” The word “precious” here is better understood as “costly.” That is, the Lord understands the cost to the community of faith when a believer dies. This is one of the reasons God spared him in this situation. >> God may not always answer our prayers in the way we would want. When that happens, this psalm is a good reminder that God’s ways are higher than our own. Consider how you can let people know what the Lord has done, so their faith can be encouraged.
Most people do not like working for an employer who micromanages them. This may be, in part, because we don’t like to be told what to do. But another reason is that micro- management communicates a lack of trust. These managers do not trust their employees, they want to control them. Today’s reading vividly describes an idol. These images of gods were everywhere in the ancient world. The reason people created idols was that they wanted to have some control over the gods. If they could be assured of the gods presence in idol form, they could make offerings to it, move it where they wanted it to go, and generally exert some control over it. But there’s a problem! When you make a god that you can control, the god can only do what the human created it to do. It is limited by its maker. These “gods” look like they have eyes, ears, noses, mouths, hands, and feet but they cannot use them (vv. 4–7). The tragic outcome of the worship of these gods is that the worshipers become like the idols that they have made – spiritually dead (v. 8). The psalm opens with the words “not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory” (v. 1). This is a reminder that worshiping God begins in humility. Three times this psalm calls Israel to “trust in the LORD” (vv. 9–11). The LORD is the living God who can act. He remembers and will bless His people (vv. 12–13). Israel did not create the Lord, rather He created the heavens and the earth (v. 15). >> In our own relationship with God, we may be tempted to believe we can control Him. You may have heard prayers like, “God if I do this for you, will you do X for me?” Instead, God calls us to trust Him. He desires to bless His people. With the Psalmist, let’s “extol the Lord both now and forevermore” (v. 18).
Ready for some praise? Psalm 113 opens with a rousing call to praise God “from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets” (v. 3). Should the Lord be praised in Philistia? Yes, even in Philistia. Should the Lord be praised in Egypt? Yes, in Egypt. Should the Lord be praised in Iowa? Brazil? Bangladesh? Yes, from the east to the west! The Lord is worthy of worship from all people because there is no one like Him (v. 5). One of things that makes God so unique is that even though He is more powerful and exulted than anyone in the universe, “he raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap” (v. 7). He cares deeply about people that we are often quick to ignore. The powerless and broken are especially noticed by Him. Psalm 113 begins a series of psalms that are traditionally used at Passover to celebrate Israel’s exodus from Egypt. It is likely that Jesus and His disciples sang Psalms 113–118 as a part of the Last Supper (Matt. 26:30). God heard the cries of His people and delivered them. He humbled Pharaoh and made the needy rejoice. This theme comes to its fulfillment in the gospel. The apostle Paul said, “Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (1 Cor. 1:26–27). If God notices the weak and vulnerable, that is a perspective that we should have as well. Praise God today for His provision and care! >> Today’s Psalm provides another fun activity you can try. Take a roam around the house or the neighborhood, asking in each location if God should be praised. “Should God be praised in the kitchen?” “Should God be praised in the den?” Yes!
In the original Hebrew, Psalms 111 and 112 are alphabetic acrostics. Each line begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet from A to Z. This structure communicated the idea of completeness. The psalmist wanted to praise God from A to Z. Psalms 111 and 112 both begin with “Hallelujah,” which means “praise the Lord!” Psalm 111 reflects on the mighty works of God from the Bible, but especially on Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. God provided manna and quail for them to eat (v. 5). He was “gracious and compassionate” (v. 4). Because God has been faithful, we can trust His word (v. 7). The psalmist reminds us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (v. 10). The word fear here does not mean terror or fright. Rather it refers to trusting in the Lord and obeying His commands. Remembering what God has done should lead us to trusting our lives to Him in the present. Psalm 112 portrays someone who has decided to live in fear of the Lord (v. 1). This person’s life and character is modeled after God’s. They are “gracious and compassionate” to others (v. 4). They delight in God’s word (v. 1). Because of their steadfast trust in the Lord, they don’t fear trials. They can take bad news in stride (v. 7). They are generous to the poor (vv. 5, 9). Because of this, they will have “wealth and riches” and victory over their enemies (vv. 3, 8). While some will experience economic prosperity, for many this promise will only be fulfilled at Christ’s return. At that time those who trust in the Lord will be vindicated and the “longings of the wicked will come to nothing” (v. 10). >> Try your hand at praising God from “A” to “Z”. This can be a fun game to play with children as well. Name one thing that begins with each letter for which you can thank God. And if you follow our Facebook page, share your answers with us!
When I first started praying through the psalms, I used to get tripped up on psalms like Psalm 109. In this psalm David seems vengeful and angry. How could David pray that his enemies’ children would become wandering beggars (v. 10)? There are a couple of important perspectives to keep in mind. First, humans are sinful and often treat each other in terrible ways. A casual glance at news headlines on any given day will confirm this truth all too clearly. In Psalm 109, David had suffered at the hands of people who falsely accused him (v. 2). This was a serious situation that could potentially be life-threatening. David also informs us that he was not their only victim. These people “hounded to death the poor and the needy and the brokenhearted” (v. 16). How should we respond in this type of situation? How should we pray in the face of deep human evil directed against us? Second, what David does in this psalm is communicate his anger, hatred, and frustration before God. He is honest about how he feels. Sometimes when we are deeply wounded, disturbing thoughts and feelings well up in us. David takes those desires and lays them before God in a straightforward way (vv. 6–20). By doing this, David makes his anger against his enemies a part of his relationship with God. It is reassuring to realize that God is big enough to handle our honesty. David begs God to act in this situation and then, appropriately, leaves his circumstances in God’s hands. The New Testament clarifies that Jesus not only hears prayers like this from us but also, He Himself experienced injustice. Like David, Jesus was falsely accused and betrayed by someone He loved (vv. 4–5). >> Do you struggle with bitter feelings toward those who have wronged you? Follow David’s example and bring those emotions honestly before God. Then pray that He will go before you in that difficult situation, showing you how to respond and acting on your behalf.
“Worship is natural to the Christian,” said J. I. Packer, writing about the Psalms. “The habit of celebrating the greatness and graciousness of God yields an endless flow of thankfulness, joy, and zeal.” Today begins our study on the fifth book of the Psalms (chapters 107–150). In the Psalms we find joy-filled expressions of praise. We also hear honest words of suffering and sorrow. The Psalms give language to the whole range of our human experience, helping us bring every emotion before God. Psalm 107 focuses on God’s grace and forgiveness After decades of their exile because of their sin, God restored Israel to her land. The psalm uses four images to depict the horrors of exile. Living in exile is compared to wandering in desert wastelands with no food or water (vv. 4–5). The exile is then compared to a prisoner in chains working like a slave (vv. 10–13), all hope seemed lost. In a rather different image, the exile is compared to a fool who suffers because of his folly (vv. 17–18). Finally, exile is compared to a merchant on a ship caught in a storm (vv. 23–26). In each situation, people cried to the Lord for help and He delivered them. He gave food and drink to the desert wanderer (v. 9). He brought the prisoner out of darkness (v. 14). He rescued the fool (v. 20). God calmed the waves and “stilled the storm to a whisper” (v. 29). In each case, people were delivered not because they deserved it but because they called upon the Lord. Again and again, we are called to praise God for His “unfailing love” (vv. 1, 8, 15, 21, 31), which comes to its fulfillment in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. >> Reading the Psalms daily can be a wonderful habit to create. Try reading each psalm aloud. Listen to what the Psalmist is saying. Reflect on what is being communicated to God. Pray through one psalm each day!
Baruch was a faithful friend of Jeremiah, as well as his scribe. He was the secretary who wrote down his prophecies, often putting his own life at risk! He even received his own individual prophecy from the Lord, in which God promised him that his life would be preserved (Jer. 45). Baruch was likely the person who wrote Jeremiah chapter 52, since the end of chapter 51 explicitly says, “The words of Jeremiah end here” (51:64). This appendix again recounts the fall of Jerusalem because it was such a significant event in the nation’s history as well as in Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry (see April 22). Parts of this account are nearly identical to the one found in 2 Kings 24–25. The spiritual reason for the fall of Jerusalem is found near the beginning of today’s reading: “It was because of the LORD’s anger [at their sin] that all this happened to Jerusalem and Judah, and in the end he thrust them from his presence” (v. 3). Why does this book end on such a tragic note? First, because of its historical and prophetic significance. Second, all that Jeremiah had foretold about the fall of Jerusalem came true. So, everything the prophet said about restoration and return would come true as well. This was both a vindication and an encouragement! This narrative helps us reflect on some key points from our study. First, God is sovereign over all nations. Second, God hates sin and will punish it. Idolatry and injustice are particularly reprehensible sins. Presuming upon God is prideful. Third, God’s people don’t always respond rightly to God’s Word. Truth and experience won’t necessarily change people’s minds. We’ve learned that serving God can be hard. And finally, God wants us to value Him above all else! >> Perhaps taking your cue from the paragraph above, take some extra time today to write in your journal about what you learned this month from the book of Jeremiah. Extended reading: Jeremiah 52
American philosopher and theologian Jonathan Edwards once preached: “In that He is God, He is worthy to be sovereign over all things. Sometimes men are the owners of more than they are worthy of. But God is not only the owner of the whole world, as all is from and dependent on Him, but such is His perfection, the excellency and dignity of His nature, that He is worthy of sovereignty over all.” Because God is the only One in charge, not even Babylon, the superpower of Jeremiah’s day, could oppose Him or escape His wrath. The nation that God used to accomplish His purposes as an instrument of His judgment would now come under His judgment. Babylon would be conquered by a nation from the north (vv. 2–3). This was fulfilled in 539 B.C. by Persia, that is, the Medes and the Persians. Just as with the gods of lesser nations, the gods of Babylon would be overthrown: “Bel will be put to shame, Marduk filled with terror” (v. 2). The nation who had destroyed so many others would now be destroyed (vv. 9–10). At that time, the Jews would be allowed to return home from exile (vv. 4–8). They had been “lost sheep” with bad shepherds, wandering unprotected due to their sinfulness and unfaithfulness (vv. 6–7). They would “go in tears to seek the Lord” and renew the covenant (vv. 4–5). Their true “resting place” was not the land but the Lord. Many of these prophecies were fulfilled under Cyrus, king of Persia, as seen in the books of Nehemiah and Ezra. Some, however, will not be fulfilled until the end times, including the “everlasting covenant” (v. 5). >> Our enemies may taunt us, ridiculing us for our beliefs. While we are tempted to even the score, we must remember that God is ultimately the One in control. It is not our score to settle. Our Redeemer is strong! Extended reading: Jeremiah 50–51
In one Avengers movie, the Hulk (a good guy) battles Loki (a bad guy). Loki shouts, “Enough!...I am a god, you dull creature,” but the Hulk slams him to the ground anyway. As he walks away, the Hulk smiles and mutters, “Puny god.” He had a point. If Loki could be manhandled, he wasn’t much of a “god.” The same thing happens to the Ammonite god Molek. Like the Moabites, the Ammonites descended from Lot, Abraham’s nephew. Both nations were conquered by Babylon in 582 B.C. At that time, Israel repossessed land taken from them by the Ammonites (vv. 1–2). Both of Jeremiah’s prophecies about these two nations end with the hope of restoration (v. 6). The Ammonite god Molek is a virtual synonym for evil, due in part to that religion’s heinous practice of child sacrifice. The worship of Molek was singled out in the Law for the death penalty (Lev. 20:1–5). When conquered by the Babylonians, Molek and his priests would be exiled (v. 3). “Puny god” indeed! What kind of “god” could not protect his people? Molek couldn’t even protect himself! The Ammonites are noted for trusting in their riches and military strength (v. 4). They made the same two mistakes as the Moabites; they trusted in themselves and in a false god. The repeated phrase “declares the Lord” emphasizes their mistake. God was in control! The same fate awaited other neighboring nations whose prophecies are contained in this chapter: Edom (Jer. 49:7–22); Damascus or Syria (Jer. 49:23–27); Kedar and Hazor (Jer. 49:28–33); and Elam (Jer. 49:34–39). No one who stood against God would ever win. >> It can be easy to get discouraged by everything happening in the world around us. We may be tempted to think that God has not noticed. As you read these judgments, be encouraged that God is in control and He will not let sin go unpunished. Extended reading: Jeremiah 49
If you visit the British Museum in London, you can see an archaeological artifact significant to today’s reading. The Mesha Stele, also known as the Moabite Stone, was discovered in 1868. The stone dates from about 840 B.C. and celebrates King Mesha of Moab’s victories over King Omri of Israel (1 Kings 16:23 28). It also contains the earliest known extrabiblical reference to the Hebrew name of God, YHWH. Today’s prophecies focus on two nations, Philistia (Jeremiah 47) and Moab (Jeremiah 48). The Philistines had been longtime enemies of Israel, mentioned throughout the Old Testament. They were conquered by Babylon in 604 B.C. The Moabites descended from Lot, the nephew of Abraham (see Gen. 19:36–38). Moab was conquered by Babylon in 582 B.C. The graphic pictures of death, destruction, and exile can help us imagine what the siege, conquest, and burning of Jerusalem must have been like. Verse 9, which says “put salt on Moab” is difficult to translate. The NIV points to the idea of salt making farmland useless. Other translations say “Give wings to Moab” so they can try to escape (they can’t). Still another version says, “Set up a gravestone for Moab.” No matter which is correct, they paint a negative picture. No matter how bad things got, God was in control. These judgments would happen “because the LORD has spoken” (v. 8). And for good reason! The people of Moab trusted in their “deeds and riches” and in their false god Chemosh (v. 7), a religion where human sacrifice was practiced. They trusted even more in themselves. The Moabs had committed the sin of pride. But even with this dismal picture, God gave Moab a future hope of restoration (v. 47). >> The sin of pride can easily slip by us unnoticed. In what or whom are we trusting? Do we, with false pride, think that we are in charge of our own destiny? Confess this sin to God today. Extended reading: Jeremiah 47–48
The days leading up to deployment are busy and stressful. Soldiers, families, and their leaders finalize plans and gather needed equipment. Every detail must be cared for so they can successfully engage in the battle ahead. In today’s passage, we hear a call to the troops from the Lord Himself. He alone is sovereign over all the nations of the world (v. 18). These closing days in our study contain prophecies about those nations who would rise in opposition to Judah and Jerusalem. Today’s message focuses on Egypt. Judah had sinfully looked to Egypt rather than God for protection from Babylon, or at least hoped that the two superpowers would keep each other busy (and far away from them). That was a vain hope. Jeremiah prophesied that Babylon would conquer Egypt. The soldiers of Egypt would stumble, and the Lord Himself “will push them down” (vv. 15–16). They make loud noises but had no real strength to back it up (v. 17). The defeat of a country was symbolized by a defeat of their god. First, Egypt was a heifer—they had a bull god named Apis—who would be bitten by a horsefly (Babylon). Egypt’s mercenary soldiers would be “fattened calves” for the slaughter (vv. 20–21). As a snake— the symbol of many Pharaohs—Egypt would flee and be destroyed, “put to shame” by the Babylonians (vv. 22–24). In the midst of this destruction, there is a promise for God’s people. “Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile” (v. 27). >> Do you make checklists? You might not be preparing your shields, but you have a battle plan for the day in front of you. Today, pray over your lists. Ask God, who is sovereign over all, to go before you. Extended reading: Jeremiah 46
Are you wise or foolish? The book of Proverbs has a lot to say about foolish and sinful choices: “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty” (Prov. 22:3). And these actions have consequences: “The waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them” (Prov. 1:32). Even though Jeremiah was kidnapped and taken to Egypt by the disobedient Jewish remnant, his prophetic ministry continued. Through the object lesson of the buried stones (Jer. 43:8–10), he continued to tell his people that their disobedience was sinful. Their idolatry would result in the righteous wrath of God (Jer. 44:7–10). Egypt could not protect them, for Babylon would conquer them as well. They would never return home; instead, they would die in Egypt (vv. 11–14). But, even now, the hope of humble repentance was held out to them (v. 10). The people’s response was further arrogance and insolence (vv. 15–19). We might paraphrase their response this way: We will not listen. We will not obey. We reject God’s warning. We will continue doing as we please. The punishment that has fallen on us is not from God but because of times in the past when we stopped worshiping idols. They were likely referring to King Josiah’s revival, which lasted from about 621 to 609 B.C. In any case, they proclaimed their loyalty to the Queen of Heaven, that is, Ishtar, the Babylonian goddess of fertility. If we are looking at these events in chronological order, verses 20–23 are Jeremiah’s last words: He condemned their idolatry and confirmed God’s judgment on their sins. Tradition tells us that Jeremiah was stoned to death by his fellow Jews in Egypt. >> Today’s title is a question many parents ask (with a sigh) about their children. We need love, patience, and self-control to parent like God does. Pray today for more of these virtues! Extended reading: Jeremiah 44–45
Basketball player Kyrie Irving made a stir before the 2017 NBA All-Star Game by revealing that he believed in a flat earth. Flat-earthers, as they are called, are convinced that the earth is flat instead of round. Kyrie, along with a number of others, see the available scientific evidence for a round earth as a government deception. People love conspiracy theories, maybe because they seem more exciting than the truth. That was the case with the Jewish people in today’s reading. They had accused Baruch of inciting Jeremiah to betray them to the Babylonians (v. 3). This idea was ridiculous. Both Jeremiah and Baruch were loyal Jews. The people knew Jeremiah was a true prophet, even if they didn’t like his message. They also knew Baruch had been his faithful friend and secretary for many years. There was no motive for this deception since the Babylonians had already let them go free. Even more, the Babylonians didn’t need their cooperation since they’d won the battle and could do whatever they wished. What was really happening? The people were once again rejecting the word of the Lord. Following Gedaliah’s assassination, they’d come to Jeremiah asking what to do next. They promised to do whatever God said (Jer. 42:1–6). He told them to stay in the land, and God would bless them. If they went to Egypt, they would die (Jer. 42:7–22). As we might expect, they broke their vow (vv. 4–7). They chose a conspiracy theory over a direct message from God. Even worse, they doubled down on rebellion and disobedience. They arrogantly (v. 2) accused Jeremiah of lying and Baruch of plotting with the Babylonians, then kidnapped them and fled to Egypt. >> It’s easy to ask, “Will they ever learn?” The real question is: Will we ever learn? What is God trying to show us but we’re eyes-closed oblivious? What is He trying to teach us but we’re stubbornly resisting? Extended reading: Jeremiah 42–43
The fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. was a tragic turning point in Israel’s history. It was also the climax of Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry. God’s judgment had come to pass. He’d obeyed God and spoken truth, but the fulfillment of his messages grieved him deeply. In response, he wrote the book of Lamentations. These poems connect the justice, sovereignty, and love of God and ultimately affirm that His mercies are “new every morning” (Lam. 3:21–26). The Babylonians had heard of Jeremiah and his prophecies (vv. 2–3), which turned out to be a mixed blessing for him. He wasn’t forced into exile. They set him free to go wherever he liked (v. 4). What were his options? He could travel to the enemy city of Babylon, where his fellow Jews were being taken, but many of them viewed him as a kind of traitor or collaborator because he’d foretold their defeat. Or he could stay, with Jerusalem occupied, the Temple burned, the walls torn down, and the land empty of all but the poorest people. It must have felt like a lose-lose choice. What happened? Simply put, his ministry continued. The word of the Lord continued to come to him (v. 1). He decided to stay and advise Gedaliah, the newly appointed imperial governor. The Babylonians gave him “provisions and a present,” that is, the means to survive in a conquered country stripped of its people and resources (vv. 5–6). The bottom line? God continued to watch over, protect, and provide for His prophet. The Babylonians thought they were in control, but it was the Lord. The pagan world superpower was following God’s plan exactly. This is why Jeremiah could continue to trust in the Lord even while lamenting the loss of all he’d ever known. >> No matter what you’re facing or experiencing today, God is in control in your life as well. Say with Jeremiah: “The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him” (Lam 3:25). Extended reading: Jeremiah 40–41
536 A.D. might have been the worst year in world history. A volcanic eruption in Iceland spread ash across the northern hemisphere, leading to a dark fog that covered Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia for eighteen months. Temperatures fell so much that it snowed in China during the summer. Crops failed and people starved. Further eruptions and the bubonic plague piled disaster upon disaster. For the Jews, 586 B.C. was the worst year in Israel’s history. Following two-and-a-half years of siege, Jerusalem fell to the Babylonian army (vv. 1–3). The city of David was conquered, her gates destroyed, her walls torn down. The Temple of Solomon, a symbol of God’s presence and favor, was burned to the ground. King Zedekiah tried to flee but was captured and forced to watch his sons killed before the enemy blinded him (vv. 4–7). The people of the city, excluding only the poorest, were taken into exile (vv. 8–10). When the city fell, Jeremiah was still imprisoned in the courtyard of the guard. His prophecies were known to the Babylonians, perhaps through his letter to the first group of exiles (Jer. 29; see April 16). As a result, he was given freedom to go wherever he wished (vv. 11–14). He was put into the custody of Gedaliah, the imperial governor. Although apparently friendly to Jeremiah, he was soon assassinated (Jer. 41:1–3). The fall of Jerusalem is so significant it’s narrated four times: 2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles 36, Jeremiah 39 and 52. As a prophet, Jeremiah was vindicated since his messages were fulfilled, but as a Jew, he was overcome with grief. Now you know why he is called “the weeping prophet.” >> Jeremiah displayed uncompromising loyalty to the Lord. He obediently proclaimed God’s truth, even when the message was distressing and resulted in suffering. How about us? Are we committed to Christ no matter what? Extended reading: Jeremiah 39
“I am not a theologian or a scholar,” Elisabeth Elliot once said, “but I am very aware of the fact that pain is necessary to all of us. In my own life, I think I can honestly say that out of the deepest pain has come the strongest conviction of the presence of God and the love of God.” Pain and suffering were a regular part of the life of Jeremiah. The timeframe in today’s reading is the same as April 19. The Babylonians had temporarily withdrawn from their siege of Jerusalem in order to fight the Egyptians (v. 11). Judah experienced a brief reprieve, during which Jeremiah planned to travel to his hometown care for family business (v. 12). At the city gate, however, he was falsely accused of deserting, arrested, beaten, and imprisoned (vv. 13–15). This might have been due to his unpopular prophecies and advice to surrender rather than resist (Jer. 21:9; see April 13). King Zedekiah asked Jeremiah privately for a word from the Lord (vv. 16–17), which might have been an implied invitation for the prophet to change his message to gain his freedom. But God had not changed His mind, and Jeremiah remained faithful even under these circumstances. He boldly pointed out the injustice of his imprisonment— he’d committed no crime (vv. 18–19). The king didn’t release him, but perhaps out of guilt he transferred him to a better prison (vv. 20–21). Suffering and persecution were a theme in Jeremiah’s life. For the true follower of God, suffering and persecution at the hands of the world are inevitable (John 15:18–21). >> If you’d like to do further study on Jeremiah, we recommend Courage to Stand: Jeremiah’s Battle Plan for Pagan Times by Philip Graham Ryken. He’s also written Jeremiah and Lamentations: From Sorrow to Hope in the Preaching the Word commentary series. Extended reading: Jeremiah 37–38
Who is the bestselling novelist in history? Agatha Christie, the mystery writer! Her novels have sold more than one billion copies in English and another one billion in more than 100 other languages. An estimated 32 million Americans have read at least one of her books, including such classics as Death on the Nile and Murder on the Orient Express. Only Shakespeare and the Bible have sold more copies. Scripture is of course the most valuable book ever written in more ways than one. But this didn’t stop King Jehoiakim (605 B.C.) from showing disrespect and contempt for the word of the Lord. God gave Jeremiah a message of judgment to deliver to the king. His friend and secretary, Baruch, wrote it down on a scroll and took it to godly palace officials. Knowing how the king was likely to respond, they took steps to hide the two men and to protect the scroll. Nonetheless, the king ordered it to be brought and read in his presence. As this was done, King Jehoiakim deliberately took a knife, cut off each section of the scroll as it was read, and burned it in the fire that was warming the room (v. 23). The entire scroll was destroyed in this way. Stunningly, no one was disturbed by the scroll’s content or by the king’s profane actions. We need to feel the depths of sinfulness behind this horrifying act. The king showed absolutely no fear of the Lord (v. 24). In fact, he ordered Jeremiah and Baruch arrested. God, however, protected them, in part through their courageous friends (vv. 19, 25–26). God caused the king’s actions to come to nothing. The scroll was rewritten (v. 28). The message would come true regardless. And further, Jehoiakim would be severely punished for his evil deed (vv. 29–31). >> As believers, we have to love and respect God’s Word (Ps. 119:97; 2 Tim. 3:16). It holds a place of high importance in our lives. Why not invite a friend to know God’s Word by sharing Today in the Word with them? Extended reading: Jeremiah 36
African Americans who want to learn more about their ancestry have, as of 2016, a new database they can consult. The Freedman’s Bureau Project digitized post-Civil War historical records in order to create a searchable database of nearly 1.8 million emancipated slaves. When Jerusalem was under siege, the people had vowed to the Lord that they would free all their Hebrew slaves (vv. 8–10). This was a formal covenant agreed to by King Zedekiah and all the people. Why? It started out as an act of repentance and returning to the Lord (v. 15). The Law banned holding fellow Hebrews as slaves for longer than six years. They were to be freed in the seventh year (v. 14; Deut. 15:12). At that time, slavery as an economic practice...was a way for the poor to survive, so God allowed it, which did not mean He approved of it. They kept their promise and freed the slaves, temporarily. When the Egyptians came on the scene in 588 B.C., the Babylonians temporarily lifted the siege to attack them. At that point, King Zedekiah and the people broke their vow and enslaved the people they had just freed (v. 11). So much for repentance—they went straight back to their rebellious ways! (v. 17). Through Jeremiah, God condemned them for their faithlessness. He pointedly reminded them that He’d freed their entire nation from slavery (v. 13), so why were their hearts so hard? By breaking their promise, they’d profaned God’s name, the opposite of bringing Him glory (v. 16). As a result, they received from the Lord a sentence of ironic justice—the same “freedom” they’d given their slaves. They were now free to die “by the sword, plague and famine” when the Babylonians returned (v. 17). >> As we’ve seen throughout this study, God hates sin, but He loves us. In order to receive His forgiveness, we need to be in the daily habit of confessing our sins to Him (1 John 1:9). Extended reading: Jeremiah 34–35
When we “closed” on the sale of our house, it was a tedious affair. My wife and I, as well as our realtor, the seller, and a title expert, sat at a conference table stacked with papers. We signed and signed and signed, until my hand was cramping. At the end, we placed the title and mortgage papers in a clay jar and sealed it up. Wait, what? No, of course we didn’t. So why did Jeremiah do that after buying a field from his cousin? God told him to buy the property, located near his hometown of Anathoth (vv. 6 10). Even though he was imprisoned, apparently, he had some freedom and was still on duty as a prophet. Before witnesses, Jeremiah purchased the field and sealed up the deeds in a clay jar (vv. 11–15). The purpose was long-term storage. Considering the imminent Babylonian conquest, this was an object lesson in faith and hope. From a human perspective, it made no sense to buy a field that would soon be “owned” by the Babylonians. By doing so, Jeremiah expressed faith in God’s promise. One day they would return. One day they would buy and sell land there again. Jeremiah also prayed a public prayer of praise to the Lord (vv. 16–25). He proclaimed God to be powerful, loving, just, and sovereign (vv. 17–19). He praised God for His mighty deeds in the past and confessed the people’s unfaithfulness (vv. 20–23). He admitted that the coming conquest was deserved (vv. 24–25). His faith and hope, as symbolized in his purchase, were not based in any human factor, but entirely on the Lord! >> We don’t know what you’re going through in your life, but we know where you can find hope: “Set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming” (1 Peter 1:13). Extended Reading: Jeremiah 32–33
Does God always give us what we deserve? Thankfully, no! Jeremiah chapters 30 to 33 are often called “the Book of Consolation.” Pastor and author Dane Ortlund explains this is “because God reveals to his people in these chapters his final response to their sinfulness, and it is not what they deserve. Expecting judgment, he surprises them with comfort. Why? Because he had pulled them into his heart, and they cannot sin their way out of it.” Despite their repeated sinful behavior, God tells them, “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3). Even though Jeremiah delivered chapter after chapter of judgment of sin, our God is ever faithful! He was not faithful in the way the people of Judah assumed. They thought they could presume on their “chosen” status and escape the consequences of their sin. Instead, God is ever faithful in His own way and in His own time. Israel’s sin would indeed lead to judgment, but God promised to one day restore them to the land. Even with Jerusalem and the Temple lost, He would be their God and they would be His people (v. 1). Even while disciplining them, He never stopped loving them, just as He does with us today (Heb. 12:5–11). Today’s passage paints a beautiful picture of what Israel’s restoration will be like. God will provide for them and give them rest (vv. 2, 9, 12–14). They will again experience His love and kindness (v. 3). Cities will be rebuilt, the land will flourish (vv. 4–5). They will dance and sing as they worship Him (vv. 4, 6–7, 12–13). These images look forward not only to the return from exile (starting in 538 B.C.) but also to the Messianic Age. >> From all of us on the Today in the Word team, Happy Resurrection Sunday! What was good news for Israel is good news for us as well. God loves you. Please accept His gift of salvation today! Extended reading: Jeremiah 30–31
I served for two years as a Christian English teacher in China. In those days before email and Skype, handwritten letters meant a lot. Each letter took about three weeks one way, so even if the recipient wrote back immediately it was a six-week turnaround. Being far from home, I wrote about two dozen letters every month. An initial group of Jewish exiles had been taken to Babylon in 597 B.C. Jeremiah wrote them a letter from home, a letter with a word from the Lord (vv. 1–3). Perhaps they were excited to read it...until they opened it. The message wasn’t at all what they wanted to hear. They’d been hoping to return home soon. Jeremiah, however, told them to build houses, get their children married, and settle down in Babylon (vv. 4–7). God had decreed they’d be there for 70 years (v. 10; see also Dan. 9:2). Furthermore, they were to “seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile” (v. 7). If it prospered, so would they. Since all authority is ordained by God (Rom. 13:1), good citizenship applied even under these circumstances. Jeremiah also instructed them to stop listening to false prophets and pagan diviners (vv. 8–9). This is part of what had gotten Judah into trouble in the first place! Why were they continuing to sin in this way? Apparently, they hadn’t really gotten the message that sin leads to judgment. So the prophet sent them the same message he was proclaiming back home. Despite all this, Jeremiah’s letter ended with hope (vv. 10–14). After the 70 years, the relationship between God and His people would be renewed. They would seek Him and find Him. He would gather them from their places of exile and bring them home! >> Today’s verse is well known— and unfortunately, often quoted out of context. Now that you know the historical and literary context, how will you interpret and apply this verse? Extended reading: Jeremiah 28–29
Most people place a high value on success. We judge ourselves and others by the things we have achieved, the house we live in, or the clothes we wear. If we’ve done well, we feel our lives should reflect our success. But the fact is that God defines “success” differently than we do. Jeremiah is a case in point: No one worried about the judgments proclaimed in his prophecies. No one repented in response to his faithful messages. He sparked no lasting revival. His enemies openly mocked him, plotted to assassinate him, threw him in prison, and tried to destroy his writings. Yet because Jeremiah was obedient, God considered him a success. Today’s incident from 609 B.C. begins with a message we know well at this point in the study: The people can repent of their sin, or they can face God’s judgment (vv. 1–6). What does “like Shiloh” mean (vv. 6, 9)? Shiloh was the home of the tabernacle from the time of Joshua to the days of Samuel. In response to Israel’s sinfulness, God allowed Shiloh to be destroyed by the Philistines (1 Sam. 4; Ps. 78:59–61). Since Jeremiah preached this message in the courtyard of the Temple, he’d walked right into the mouth of the lion! Angered, the priests and false prophets arrested him (vv. 7–9). A legal hearing followed (vv. 10–16). Jeremiah’s enemies accused him of prophesying against the Temple and demanded the death penalty. They’d confused a building with God. Jeremiah’s defense was that the Lord had sent him to speak the truth. He boldly repeated the message and called everyone to repent! The fickle crowd switched sides and he, as a genuine prophet under God’s protection, was found innocent. >> As Christians, we should not be surprised when we face persecution (1 Peter 4:12–16). Today, pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ around the world who are enduring suffering. Extended reading: Jeremiah 25–27
In 2013, Pakistan set a world record by planting 847,275 trees in a single day. In 2016, India broke that record by planting an astounding 49.3 million trees in one day. In 2019, Ethiopia shattered the record by planting 350 million trees across the country in just twelve hours! Their goal was to repopulate the forests and preserve natural life! Trees are a powerful symbol of life. In today’s reading, the coming Messiah is called “a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land” (v. 5; see also Isa. 11). The message Jeremiah gives here is not new: Judgment was coming (Jer. 23:1–2). The shepherds, that is, Judah’s political and religious leaders, had utterly failed. Instead of taking care of the sheep, they’d destroyed and scattered them (see also Ezek. 34). But despite the approaching conquest and exile, God was not done with His people. He is more than faithful! He Himself would become their shepherd (Jer. 23:3–4). Though they didn’t deserve it, He promised that He would one day restore them to the land (see April 17). At that time, He would provide better human shepherds to guide them, men such as Nehemiah, Ezra, and Zerubbabel. Even more, He promised to raise up a “righteous Branch” from the line of David (vv. 5–8; Jer. 33:15–16). If you are thinking this foretells the promised Messiah, you are right! The perfect King, unlike the “shepherds” above—will do what is wise, just, and right. His name is “The LORD Our Righteous Savior,” also translated “The LORD has provided us with justice.” The Messiah’s reign will be an incredible work of God, greater even than Israel’s Exodus from slavery in Egypt. >> In case you missed it, in July 2021, Today in the Word did an entire issue on sheep and shepherd imagery in the Bible. Did you know you have free online access to past studies? Extended reading: Jeremiah 23–24
In the early church, believers shared whatever they had to meet one another’s needs. Barnabas sold some property and gave the money to the apostles to distribute. Noticing the praise he received, Ananias and his wife Sapphira decided to do the same...almost. They gave part of the money, but kept the rest, saying they’d given it all. Because they lied to God, they were both punished with death (Acts 4:32–5:11). God hates hypocrisy. Ananias and Sapphira pretended to be generous but were not. Similarly, King Zedekiah appeared to be full of faith but was not. He rebelled against Babylon in 588 B.C., inquired of a true prophet, and expressed hope in God’s wonder- working power for victory (Jer. 21:1–2). Weren’t these “steps of faith”? No. This was his idea, not God’s. Zedekiah was merely wishing that God would get on board. It was an attempt to manipulate the Almighty. There had been no change in the king’s heart in response to any of Jeremiah’s messages. Therefore, there was no change in God’s answer: Judah would still be conquered by Babylon (vv. 3–7). There would be plague, famine, and a total military defeat. Even worse, it would be as if God Himself was fighting against them. Ironically, Zedekiah’s name means “The Lord is my righteousness,” but he didn’t live up to it, nor did any of the political and religious leaders of that day. As a group, they were primarily to blame for the coming judgment. Jeremiah presented the king with a familiar choice (vv. 8–10; see also Deut. 11:26–28). They could listen and live, or not listen and die. If they believed God, they should surrender to the Babylonians and save many lives. If not, they could keep fighting and pay the price. >> It’s safe to say that many people who call themselves Christians today are not following the true gospel or the Word of God. With God on our side, let’s pray for revival! Extended reading: Jeremiah 21–22
The famous artist Donatello completed a life-size marble sculpture of the prophet Jeremiah in 1427. If you visited the museum in Florence, Italy, you’d note that Jeremiah looks fatigued, even exhausted. His face suggests profound sadness and frustration as well as a hint of inner turmoil. After reading today’s passage, we can understand why God’s prophet would be profoundly discouraged. On the one hand, he was regularly receiving and preaching messages from the Lord. These words burned in him like fire, but he felt like a hammer trying to break rocks (v. 9; Jer. 5:14; 23:29). No one was listening! Even worse, despite great effort, his ministry was bearing no apparent fruit. Earlier in chapter 20, a priest named Pashhur had Jeremiah beaten and put in the stocks for his prophecy in chapter 19. So we are not surprised that Jeremiah complained (vv. 7–10): The word of the Lord had brought him only “insult and reproach all day long.” In a sense, God was to blame for His prophet’s suffering. But Jeremiah felt compelled or even coerced to continue proclaiming the word of the Lord. His calling was overpowering, even though he knew what it would cost him (see also Mark 8:34–35). Despite his discouragement, Jeremiah expressed confidence in the Lord to save him (Jer. 20:11–13). The LORD is a “mighty warrior.” The prophet may be discouraged and weary of the battle, but his faith had not weakened. He even called on his hearers, “Sing to the LORD!” (v. 13). Jeremiah ended his reflections with a complaint (vv. 14–18): “Cursed be the day I was born!” he cried, expressing his anguish at knowing he’d see Jerusalem and the Temple burn in judgment. >> There were no easy answers for Jeremiah’s situation, but he did the right thing by taking it to the Lord in prayer. There may be no easy answers for the situation you are facing either but remember that no problem is too big for God! Extended reading: Jeremiah 19–20
My youngest child and I recently went on a “daddy-daughter date” to a pottery shop. As we chatted, she painted a round trinket box in a rainbow of bright colors. Two weeks later, we picked up the finished piece, which had been glazed and fired in a kiln. This beautiful memory is on a shelf in front of me as I write this sentence! At God’s direction, Jeremiah also visited a pottery shop (vv. 1–4). He took special note as the potter broke down a pot on the wheel and reshaped it into something else. In those days, a potter worked with two flat, circular stones (wheels) mounted on a rod or shaft. The lower wheel was spun by foot, while the potter worked the clay on the upper wheel. This episode became another object lesson (vv. 5–10). God is the Potter; Israel is the clay. As the sovereign Creator, He has the right to do whatever He likes. When the clay fails to submit, He will remake it as He pleases. The same two conditions in yesterday’s reading apply here as well: If the people repent, then God would relent from judgment. But if they continue to sin, then God would “relent” from the blessing He’d planned for them. Isaiah used the same image to make a point about who’s in charge, accusing Israel: “You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay!” (Isa. 29:16; 45:9). Paul similarly quoted Isaiah but probably had Jeremiah in mind as well when he admonished: “Who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” (Rom. 9:20). >> The classic chorus, “Have Thine Own Way, Lord,” includes potter and clay imagery of surrendering to the Lord’s will. Why not sing it today as part of your personal devotions? Extended reading: Jeremiah 18
Disaster movies such as Independence Day, Deep Impact, and The Day After Tomorrow like to use special effects to show the Statue of Liberty being destroyed. It’s a shorthand way of symbolizing the destruction of America. For the people of Jeremiah’s time, the gates of Jerusalem had a similar importance. To speak of their destruction was a shorthand way of symbolizing the end of the nation. To deliver such a message while standing at the Gate of the People was a powerful thing to do (vv. 19–20)! Today’s reading focuses on one of Judah’s sins—breaking the Sabbath, the fourth of the Ten Commandments (vv. 21–22; Ex. 20:8–11). This commandment intertwines rest (not laboring), consecration (keeping the day holy), and following God’s example of resting on the seventh day of creation (Gen. 2:2–3). Historically, the Jews had often disobeyed this command (Jer. 17:23), and the people of Judah then were no different. Two conditionals follow: If the people obey and keep the Sabbath, God will bless them (vv. 24–26). The Davidic line of kings will continue. The city of Jerusalem “will be inhabited forever.” Solomon’s Temple will endure, and the people will continue to worship there. But if the people disobey and break the Sabbath—as was happening before Jeremiah’s very eyes—God “will kindle an unquenchable fire in the gates of Jerusalem” (v. 27). The contrast and what’s at stake couldn’t have been more clear! Interestingly, in His day Jesus condemned the Pharisees on the issue of Sabbath-keeping. On the surface, they kept it through a long list of regulations. But when they criticized Him for healing on the Sabbath, He called them out for their hypocrisy. They had lost sight of God’s purposes for this command (Matt. 12:9–14). >> While Christians differ in their practice of Sabbath keeping, the creation principle of rest is still God’s design for us today. How can you honor the Sabbath today? Extended reading: Jeremiah 16–17
Jeremiah was called “the weeping prophet.” He was not just sad in an emotional sense. His tears expressed deep grief for sin and its consequences. At the same time Jeremiah’s grief was rooted in faith that God would ultimately make everything right. In that same spirit, Rend Collective affirms: “I will sing of Your name / Here in the shadows / I’ll light up an offering of praise / What was true in the light / Is still true in the dark / You’re good and You’re kind / And You care for this heart / Lord I believe / That you weep with me.” Today’s passage is a lament over a drought that was a warning to Judah (see Lev. 26:18–20). God was trying to get His people’s attention, calling them to repent. In a lament, a speaker typically describes a crisis and asks God for help. A lament expresses godly sorrow, but with underlying and sometimes explicit notes of hope and faith. The individual grief is also meant to express empathy with the community. Today’s passage follows the typical form of a lament. He described the drought and grieved over the suffering it caused (vv. 1–6). This natural disaster affected everyone. Not even the “nobles” could get water (v. 3). The farmers couldn’t either, foreshadowing a food shortage to come. Covering their heads was a cultural gesture of mourning. Even nature was affected. The doe deserting her fawn and the wild donkeys panting with thirst evoke our pity and sorrow. Jeremiah asked God to help (vv. 7–9). He admitted that the people had sinned and deserved judgment but asked the Lord to be merciful. God, however, answered “no” (v. 10). The nation was not repenting, despite the warning embedded in the prophet’s lament. >> How do you handle a “no” from the Lord? Do you trust Him anyway? Do you check your heart to see if repentance is needed? These are godly responses. Extended reading: Jeremiah 14–15
I have a vivid childhood memory of attending Good News Club. The teacher held up a candy bar and offered it to whomever would receive it. I sprinted to the front and grabbed my gift! Then she told us salvation was like that candy bar—a free gift from God to whomever receives it. The Good News Club teacher used the candy bar as a spiritual object lesson, one that I still remember to this day. Object lessons can be powerful teaching tools, which is why we see them throughout the book of Jeremiah. In today’s reading, God instructed Jeremiah to purchase a linen belt and use it as an object lesson (vv. 1–7). First, he was told to buy a linen belt and to wear it but not wash it. Priestly garments were made of linen, so the belt was probably a symbolic reminder of Judah’s identity as God’s chosen people. Jeremiah was then told to bury it, then to dig it up. By this time it was filthy and “completely useless” (vv. 7, 10). After this, God interpreted the object lesson (vv. 8–11). The linen belt represented His love, with which He’d bound the people of Israel and Judah to Himself. Why? For His glory and honor, the purpose of all things. What Jeremiah had done with the belt is a symbol of what God would do with Judah—ruin them. Why? They were proud. They didn’t listen. They thought they could sin and get away with it. They stubbornly persisted in their idolatry. Just as Jeremiah’s linen belt had utterly failed to serve its intended purpose, so also had Judah. As a result of their unfaithfulness (see Deut. 26:16–19), the “treasured possession” would become a filthy rag. >> How about us? Are we living “a life worthy of the calling [we] have received” (Eph. 4:1)? Or are we living as if we’ve “exchanged the truth about God for a lie” (Rom. 1:25)? Extended reading: Jeremiah 13
Just prior to today’s reading, enemies in Jeremiah’s hometown of Anathoth had plotted to kill him, but God had revealed their plot (Jer. 11:18–23). Without this revelation, the prophet would have been “like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter” (11:19). God promised to punish those wrongdoers. Jeremiah wanted immediate justice (vv. 1–4). He asked, “Why does the way of the wicked prosper?” (12:1). He wondered why these would-be murderers had not yet been punished? This wasn’t about revenge—the prophet wanted to see God vindicated. These evil doers were saying that God could not see. And what’s more, they thought they were getting away with it. Jeremiah also had a bigger question. Why did God allow the wicked to live comfortable lives? That question puzzles us still today. We ask: Does God lack the power to make justice happen? Is He lacking in love? Is He uncaring about goodness? In a way, Jeremiah was accusing God of not being good or just. God appeared to let the faithless “live at ease,” as if the wicked are a special tree that God takes care of (the opposite of Ps. 1:3). God answered Jeremiah (Jer. 12:5–6). But He answered with more questions. God doesn’t need to justify Himself, and He knew that His prophet trusted Him despite his frustration. Essentially, God’s questions indicate that worse was going to happen. If Jeremiah’s faith could not wait for justice in this case, how would he handle even tougher tests down the road? These worse things would include the coming judgment on Judah (vv. 7–13). Because of their ongoing sin and rebellion, God would abandon His people and His house (the Temple). His love and protection would be withdrawn. Things would get worse before they get better. >> The writer of Psalm 73 had similar feelings and doubts. He needed to relearn the truth about God. Why not read this psalm as you conclude your devotional time today? Extended reading: Jeremiah 11– 12
In The Wizard of Oz, the Scarecrow dreams of getting a brain. On the road, he sings, “I would not be just a nothin’ / My head all full of stuffin’...If I only had a brain.” Dorothy agrees, “With the thoughts you’ll be thinkin’/ You could be another Lincoln / If you only had a brain.” At this point in the book of Jeremiah, you may be thinking that the people of Judah should have been singing this same song! If they’d only had a brain, they would have repented and returned to the Lord. Idolatry was not complicated. They knew that exchanging their “glorious God” for “worthless idols” (Jer. 2:11) was a big mistake. Idols are objects made by human craftsmen, so why would God’s people choose to worship them? They cannot walk, speak or do anything else, good or bad. They’re “like a scarecrow in a cucumber field” (10:5). Not even the crows respect them! Furthermore, the Jews were God’s chosen people. They had been given His Law. Why would they follow the ways of sinful nations? Jeremiah compares these idols to the one true God (vv. 6–7). Our God is King over all nations. He deserves to be feared and worshiped. There is none like Him! This back-and-forth pattern continues throughout today’s reading—an attack on Judah’s idolatry, followed by words of praise for the Lord. As far as idols go, it’s “senseless and foolish” to worship sticks of wood (vv. 8–9; see Isa. 41:22–24). They can do nothing (v. 11). They’re dead, powerless, a fraud (vv. 14–15). Our God, by contrast, is “not like these” at all (v. 16). He’s true, living, eternal, and sovereign (v. 10). As the Creator, He “made the earth by his power” and “founded the world by his wisdom” (vv. 12–13). >> We all have blind spots and temptations. Ask the Lord to examine your hearts and teach you His wisdom (Ps. 90:12). Extended reading: Jeremiah 9–10
When Jesus cleansed the Temple, he angrily drove out the moneychangers and overturned the tables of those exploiting the poor by selling doves for offerings. “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers’” (Matt. 21:13). In this dramatic scene, Jesus was quoting from Isaiah and Jeremiah. The “house of prayer” is from Isaiah 56:7, and the “den of robbers” is from today’s verse. Why? Because the same sin committed in Jesus’ presence had happened in Jeremiah’s time. What should have been happening at the Temple? Worship and repentance. As God said through Jeremiah: “Change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly” (v. 5). You may wonder: What was actually happening at the Temple? The short answer is: sin. Judah’s sins included stealing, murder, adultery, perjury, injustice, and idolatry (vv. 6, 9). They were oppressing the poor and worshiping false gods. The main sin highlighted in this passage is hypocrisy. They were showing one face to the world and another to God (as if He wouldn’t know!). They acted one way in the Temple and another way in the world. They had the gall to worship idols and sin wantonly, then enter the house of God and think they were “safe.” They thought that being God’s “chosen people” was a lucky charm, keeping them safe from the consequences of their sin (v. 10). After all, that’s what the false prophets had told them, and they’d put their trust in their deceptive words (vv. 4, 8). God would never destroy His own Temple, right? We know differently. God hates sin and is righteously angry when His people take advantage of their identity and His grace (see also Rom. 6:1–2). >> In light of today’s devotion, we encourage you to prepare your hearts for next Sunday’s worship service. This is not just because it will be Palm Sunday but because worshiping God is serious business. Extended reading: Jeremiah 7–8
Digging into our sin is like peeling an onion. We’re never done—there always seems to be another layer. And the more layers are revealed, the more we recognize the depths of our sinfulness and our inability to help ourselves. As Jeremiah said later in the book: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure” (17:9). Sadly, Jeremiah’s peeling of Judah’s onion of sin led to no tears of repentance. Things were definitely not as they should have been (vv. 21–25). What should have been happening was awe, reverence, fear, trembling, gratitude, and worship. Just as nature keeps to its divinely set boundaries, people should know how to act toward God. But Judah was acting in ways that were spiritually blind and deaf, foolish, stubborn, and rebellious. “They [had] turned aside and gone away” from the path of righteousness (v. 23). God had planned to bless them, but their ongoing sin was depriving them of the good He intended (v. 25). The next layer was even worse (vv. 26–29)! Simply rebelling wasn’t enough for some wrongdoers. They set traps for others. They became rich and powerful through deceit and exploitation. In opposition to biblical justice, which seeks others’ good (Deut. 10:17–19; James 1:27), they were only looking after themselves. “Their evil deeds [had] no limit” (v. 28). They deserved God’s punishment, and God took it personally: “Should I not avenge myself on such a nation as this?” (v. 29). Still another layer—how low could it go (vv. 30–31)? “Horrible” and “shocking” are the only appropriate words. Prophets told lies instead of truth, priests ministered by their own authority instead of God’s, and, most appallingly, “my people love it this way” (v. 31). >> The “fat and sleek” of Jeremiah’s day did not speak up for the poor or the orphan (v. 28). What about us? Where in our lives are we speaking up for biblical justice? Extended reading: Jeremiah 5–6
How were Old Testament prophets appointed? When Isaiah was called, he “saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne.” Angels called to one another, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isa. 6:1–3). Similarly, when Ezekiel was called (Ezek. 1:1), “the heavens were opened and [he] saw visions of God.” Jeremiah’s call was not as dramatic, but no less authentic (Jer. 1:4–10). He was a young man, probably under 25 years old (see also 1 Tim. 4:12). God had in fact appointed or chosen him before he’d even been conceived (v. 5). Jeremiah felt unworthy, which was a wise response (v. 6). If it was an excuse, God rejected it, commanded his obedience (v. 7), and promised His presence and protection (v. 8). He then formalized Jeremiah’s call by touching his mouth, indicating that the young man would no longer speak for himself, but for God: “I have put my words in your mouth” (vv. 9–10). The prophet’s calling gives us a preview of the message he would bring (vv. 11–16). God showed him two images: First, he saw an almond branch (vv. 11–12). Almond trees were the first trees to bloom in spring and symbolize wakefulness (new life) and watchfulness (looking for it). Second, he saw a boiling pot (vv. 13–16). This represented the political situation of his day, with Judah constantly under threat. There was no doubt that Jeremiah’s ministry would be difficult—he should be ready for that (vv. 17–19). To help, God reminded the prophet of His strength. We see images of a fortified city, an iron pillar, and a bronze wall. How would he speak harsh truth to those in power and survive! God would be with him! >> God knows each of us in the same way He knew Jeremiah—before we were even conceived! Reflect on this comforting and challenging truth by reading Psalm 139 as part of your devotions today.
Jeremiah has been called “the weeping prophet.” Why? Because he brought mostly bad news. It grieved him even more that God’s people did not respond with repentance. They continued to sin, and judgment inevitably arrived. No wonder he wept! As we begin the study of this Old Testament prophet, it is helpful to understand the time when Jeremiah’s ministry took place. It lasted more than 40 years, from about halfway through the reign of King Josiah in 626 B.C. to sometime after the fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. (vv. 2–3). During this time, Babylon defeated Egypt and Assyria. A new superpower was rising in the ancient Near East, looming large in Jeremiah’s prophecies. Jeremiah was a member of the priestly household of Hilkiah (v. 1). Hilkiah was probably descended from Abiathar, a deposed priest from the line of Eli exiled by Solomon (1 Kings 2:26– 27). So the prophet’s family heritage was...complicated. Because of the times he lived in, God commanded him not to marry (Jer. 16:2). Jeremiah is the longest book in the Bible, both the word count in Hebrew and the number of verses in English (1,364). The content is not in chronological order, but most chapters include a reference date or historical clues. The book features both poetry and prose, including narrative, sermons, object lessons or parables, laments, and a letter. Key themes include God’s judgment, justice, sovereignty, righteousness, faithfulness, sin and the need for repentance. The Moody Bible Commentary summarizes the character of this important prophet: “Jeremiah was a man of outstanding courage, who boldly and unwaveringly proclaimed the Lord’s message.” >> Since this is a lengthy book, you have two choices: You can read the shorter focus passages for each day. Or, starting on April 3rd, you can read longer passages noted in the application. The longer passages will enable you to read the entire book of Jeremiah.
What a wide variety of women we have studied this month! These Old Testament women have made courageous decisions by faith, stepped up to lead, struggled with bitterness, loved with kindness, worshiped idols, spoke with wisdom, and prophesied truth. Each had different goals, obstacles, victories, flaws, and failures. We finish our journey with a look at the ideal woman, the “wife of noble character,” described in Proverbs 31. Modern readers may not realize that this chapter is actually a skillfully crafted poem. In the Hebrew, it reads as an acrostic, each verse beginning with another letter of the alphabet. In addition, the poem is written with extended chiastic structure, meaning that opposite lines are parallel. The first line is parallel to the last line. The second line is parallel to the second-to-last line. Using both techniques in one poem is remarkable! The author describes the sort of woman a young man should look for in a wife: someone with a noble character, someone in whom he can place his confidence. She should have a strong work ethic and manage money well. She should care for the needy and maintain her household. Verse 23 says her husband is respected as a leader in the city, and this, significantly, is the center of the poem, the main point. It follows, then, that this woman was not only savvy in business but also strong and dignified, full of peace and joy for the future. She was a wise and capable teacher. Her children and her husband would speak her praise. The poem concludes with an important point. While charm and beauty are not bad qualities to possess, they are not the most important foundation. “A woman who fears the LORD is to be praised” (v. 30)! >> While the qualities developed in this poem describe a wife, they are characteristics we can all emulate and pursue. Consider which women in this study have made an impact on your life. What lesson will you take forward from their lives?
There are many different ways we can think about our spiritual growth. We can focus on the disciplines needed to deepen our understanding of and connection to God. We can consider the journey by stages and describe each step with clear characteristics. But any discussion on spiritual growth involves the subject of pain. Pain is a universal human reality and a key component of our spiritual development. Scripture tells us that God allows pain in our lives for many different reasons: as discipline (Heb. 12); to unify the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:26); to build empathy (2 Cor. 1:3–8); to drive us to dependency (Ps. 34:18); to give voice to the gospel and glory to God (1 Peter 4). Jesus’ suffering was unique, serving as the only sacrifice that God accepts as payment for sin (Heb. 9:26). But we may be called to follow His example and suffer for Jesus’ sake. In such cases, suffering is not a sacrifice for sin but an expression of love for God and a demonstration of our faith (Phil. 1:29). By chapter 2, Job and his wife have already endured unspeakable pain (see Job 1). They had no time to recover from the traumatic loss, when Satan asked God for another opportunity to test Job—by striking his bones and flesh. God agreed, and Job’s body was afflicted with painful sores. He sat, scraping the blisters with broken pottery. This was too much for Job’s wife. Rather than supporting Job, she added to his problems. She chided him about his faithfulness to the Lord and challenged him to curse God and die. Job called her suggestion foolish and held to his faith (v. 10). >> It’s possible to come through pain stronger and wiser and more compassionate, loving God and others more deeply than we did before. If you are moving through pain, seek the support you need to navigate with grace. Ask God for the wisdom to come alongside those in your life who are facing pain.
Imagine how it must have felt to experience the Great Awakening, a series of 18th-century revivals that spread through the American colonies under the preaching of Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield. Entire cities were trans- formed by the gospel! Today’s passage describes the reign of Josiah, the eight-year-old king of Judah. Josiah ruled for 31 years and “did what was right in the eyes of the LORD” (v. 2). As a young king, he purged Judah of idols, tearing down the altars of Baal and smashing the Asherah poles. He even burned the bones of the false priests. Then, in his eighteenth year, he set out to repair the temple of the Lord. Workers were hired. Joists, beams, and stone were acquired. They weren’t long into the project, though, when Hilkiah made a remarkable discovery—the Book of the Law of the Lord (likely Deuteronomy). Hilkiah gave it to Shaphan the secretary, who took it to the king. When Shaphan read the law out loud, the king tore his robes. He was in great distress over the sin of the people and sent a delegation to find out what the Lord required. Hilkiah and his men went to Huldah the prophetess, who shared an immediate and ominous word from the Lord. Disaster would come on the place and its people. Because of their idolatry, the Lord’s anger would be poured out. However, Huldah had more to say. Because Josiah’s heart was humble, God would spare him from the judgment by calling him home. Josiah gathered all the people at the temple and read the Book of the Law to them. The king renewed the people’s covenant with the Lord. Judah followed the Lord as long as Josiah was alive. >> Today’s devotional is a reminder that we should be praying for revival— in our church, our community, our country . . . even in our homes. Don’t just make this the prayer for one day but make it a repeating plea to God in the days and months ahead.
We would be hard pressed to find two more different women than the widow who gave the prophet Elijah her last meal and the wicked Queen Jezebel. Here, we are shown the contrast between them. Elijah had just experienced God’s miraculous provision through a poor widow and then witnessed the resurrection of the widow’s son. The widow responded by acknowledging the one true God. But before Elijah’s battle against Baal would be finished, he was confronted by another woman, the wicked Queen Jezebel. The famine lasted for three long years and God sent Elijah back to King Ahab to challenge the prophets of Baal head-on (see 1 Kings 18). The Baal prophets spent an entire day begging their god to send fire upon their sacrifice—to no avail. Then Elijah repaired the altar of the Lord, doused his sacrifice with water, and prayed. Immediately God’s fire consumed everything—the offering, wood, stones, dust, even the water around the base. Baal was defeated and the people declared, “The LORD is God.” Elijah ordered the execution of all Baal prophets. And God sent rain. But any sense of victory was short-lived. Queen Jezebel threatened Elijah’s life. Rather than standing confident in God’s power, Elijah ran 120 miles to Beersheba. He was so defeated that he prayed to die. Once again, God provided food and protection. For 40 days, the angel of the Lord cared for Elijah. Then God invited Elijah to experience His gentle presence, yet even that special visit from God couldn’t shake Elijah from his depression. Ultimately, God told Elijah to appoint his successor, Elisha (vv. 15–16). God would continue His work through a new prophet, and Jezebel, would suffer a gory demise (21:23). >> Sometimes, even after we see God provide for us in miraculous ways, we settle back into our old pattern of worry and doubt. Consider Elijah’s example, and how you can live by faith, and not fear.
Imagine that your pantry is empty...even the shelves of your refrigerator are bare. You have no idea where you will get your next meal. That is what happened to the widow of Zarephath. She lived during a time when people often turned to idols to supply their needs, the most prominent being Baal. In fact, during the reign of King Ahab, Baal worship even became prominent in Israel. The prophet Elijah arrived with an ominous message from God. A terrible drought was coming that would prove Baal powerless (v. 1). After Elijah delivered his message, God instructed him to go to a remote hiding place, where Elijah could drink from a brook and be fed by ravens (v. 4). When the brook dried up, God instructed Elijah to go back into Baal territory—to Zarephath, where God would provide for him in another unlikely way. The Lord had commanded this poor widow to feed Elijah. While we don’t know much about her, we do know she had no food to spare. She had been planning her last meal for her and her son before they would die (v. 12). Then Elijah made a miraculous promise: The widow’s flour and oil would not run out until God brought rain (v. 14). So the widow trusted in God’s promise, acting in obedience. But her troubles were not over. Her son became ill and died. In grief, she lashed out at Elijah, fearing that her own sin had killed her son. Elijah took the boy’s body to his upper room and prayed until God restored his life. She knew two things: Elijah is a man of God, and the word of the Lord is truth (v. 24). >> There are times when we are called to walk by faith and not by sight. We trust that God will protect us and act on our behalf, even when the way before us seems troubled. If you are in that situation, turn to God for help and deliverance today.
It’s impossible to know what King Solomon would be worth by current standards. Some estimate his wealth as equivalent to $100 billion to $2 trillion in today’s economy. Solomon was famous not just for his riches but even more importantly, for his wisdom. The Queen of Sheba heard about Solomon from as far away as southern Arabia. She ruled over all of the trade routes between India, east Africa, and the Mediterranean, so she had an enormous fortune of her own. However, the accounts she received of Solomon motivated her to see for herself. She assembled a magnificent caravan of camels, spices, and gold, and traveled at least 1,500 miles to verify the reports. She wanted to test Solomon’s wisdom and his devotion to God, as much as see his fortune. And Solomon far exceeded her expectations in every way. What is perhaps most interesting about this royal visit was the honor and praise that the Queen of Sheba offered to the Lord. She recognized that God alone could establish such a bountiful kingdom and such a great king. In Matthew 12:42, Jesus referenced this royal exchange when speaking to the scribes and the Pharisees. They had seen Jesus perform miracles, call disciples, and teach the people. Yet they asked for a sign (Matt. 12:38). In response, Jesus called them an “evil and adulterous generation.” He warned them that the men of Nineveh would condemn them at the judgment because they had repented when Jonah preached. The Pharisees had someone greater than Jonah in their midst. Similarly, Jesus said, the Queen of Sheba would condemn them at the judgment because she traveled from the ends of the earth just to hear Solomon’s wisdom. The Pharisees had someone greater than Solomon right in front of them. >> We have been given God’s Word and the opportunity to experience the “boundless riches” of salvation. We are blessed beyond measure! If you do not know Jesus as your Savior, won’t you turn to Him today?
History is full of epic stories of kings and queens fighting to obtain or retain the throne. Not surprisingly, 1 Kings begins with such a tale. King David was old and very ill. The throne was vulnerable, and people were vying for position. Adonijah, David’s oldest surviving son by Haggith, declared that he would be king. He commissioned chariot power and recruited two powerful supporters: Abiathar the priest and Joab the general (v. 7). Being allied with Joab also gave Adonijah access to the entire army. The author notes, however, that other leaders did not turn traitor, namely, Nathan the prophet (v. 8). When Adonijah audaciously hosted a celebration feast and invited his father’s royal officials—except Nathan and his own brother Solomon (vv. 9–10) Nathan took action. His strategy was not in military might, but in cunning and connections. Instead of going directly to David, Nathan informed Bathsheba of Adonijah’s plot and enlisted her help. He sent her into the king’s room first. When David asked Bathsheba what she wanted, she reminded him of his oath: “You yourself swore to me your servant by the LORD your God. ‘Solomon your son shall be king after me’” (v. 17). The promise was both personal and providential. Bathsheba reminded David of his influence and authority, and appealed for his care (v. 21). Just as they’d planned, Nathan arrived, and Bathsheba slipped off the scene. Nathan hammered home the gravity of the situation, challenging David directly (v. 27). But before David answered, he summoned back Bathsheba. Though his body was failing, his mind was clear, and his response was regal: “I will surely carry out today what I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel” (v. 30). Solomon would be king. >> Through Bathsheba, we see another unlikely story of God’s redemptive power. We can be thankful that God moves the hearts of kings and that His will can never be stopped.
How does a person correct a king? The best way, perhaps, is to get him to convict himself. In 2 Samuel 12:1, the prophet Nathan appears before David with little introduction. The Lord had sent him, and he told David a story about a rich man and a poor man. The image of the rich man slaughtering the poor man’s “one little ewe lamb” stirred empathy in the heart of the former shepherd. David exploded, “The man who did this must die!” (v. 5). By condemning the rich man, David condemned himself. Nathan pointed out: “You are the man!” (v. 7). David had sinned against a less-fortunate man doing evil in God’s eyes (v. 9) The Lord had given David everything, but rather than be satisfied, he chased after more, even things that were not his. The consequences were severe—for David, for Bathsheba, and for their child. Calamity would come from his own household. His wives would be given to another man. And his son would die, which raises questions for the reader regarding the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7). How would David’s dynasty endure? David’s response to the Lord’s rebuke is significant. He expresses immediate and complete remorse, in clear contrast to Saul, who had confessed (1 Sam. 15:24, 30), but only after deflection and argumentation. Nathan reassured David: “The LORD has taken away your sin.” The implication is positional. The sin was removed, taken far away. But even though David’s repentance was genuine, and God’s forgiveness complete, David and Bathsheba’s first son still died (v. 18). This was a consequence of sin, not a punishment for it. David comforted “his wife Bathsheba”—she was notably no longer seen as Uriah’s wife. And they quickly had another son, Solomon, whom the Lord loved. >> When we sin and confess our sin, we can experience God’s forgiveness and restoration. However, we must also live with the consequences of that sin. David’s story is a reminder to never take sin lightly.
If we are tempted to think we are exempt from the seduction of sin, this story serves as a cautionary tale. Up until now, David had been an exemplary king. Today’s reading reveals that even David was capable of the unthinkable. The story happened in three scenes. The first reveals David’s affair with Bathsheba (vv. 2–5). Some suggest that David’s first mistake was staying home while his army went to war. However, kings often stayed behind for their safety and the country’s stability. The text does not say that David was unduly idle. One night the king was loitering on the palace roof, when he saw a beautiful woman bathing. Acting on lustful impulse, he sent someone to identify the woman. He learned that she was the daughter of a prominent man (Eliam) and the wife of a soldier, but he was undeterred. He summoned her to the palace and slept with her. We are told that she had just purified herself from uncleanness. This sidenote is important, indicating that she was not pregnant before her encounter with David. In due time, however, a baby was on the way. In the second scene (vv. 6–13), David attempted to cover his sin. He sent for Uriah, bringing him home from the battlefield. When Uriah arrived, David feigned concern about the war and even Uriah himself. This hypocritical side of David leaves us unsettled. Then David tried to manipulate Uriah into sleeping with his wife. In the third scene (vv. 14–25), David’s actions turn from deceptive to sinister. He sent Uriah back to the front lines with a letter that sealed his fate. His plan worked, and Uriah was killed. Bathsheba became David’s wife and delivered their son. But the author concludes: “The thing David had done displeased the LORD” (v. 27). >> Spend extra time today, asking God to search your heart. Meditate on Psalm 139:23–24, asking God to bring to mind any sinful thoughts or actions that displease Him.
Today, God often chooses to speak to us through His Word, His Spirit, and the wisdom of other people. But when David was faced with tragedy, God spoke through an ephod, a prayer, and a priest. In today’s passage, David and his men arrived back in Ziklag only to find it burned to the ground. Ziklag was a formerly Philistine city, deeded to David in 1 Samuel 27:6. It served as home for many women and children while the men were off at war. The Amalekites had invaded Ziklag and captured the Israelite women and children, including David’s wives: Ahinoam and Abigail (1 Sam. 30:5). All of the men, including David, grieved “until they have no strength left to weep” (v. 4). Then their grief turned vengeful, and they plotted to stone David, the most available target. David was “greatly distressed” (v. 6). However, the passage also declared that “David found strength in the LORD his God” (v. 6). His integrity was still intact. David asked Abiathar the priest to bring the ephod, a divinely sanctioned means of seeking the will of the Lord. And David inquired whether or not he should pursue the raiding party. The priest reported that David would certainly have success. So, with that divine assurance, David and 400 men set off on a rescue mission. God led them to an Egyptian whom they treated kindly. He became their informant and led them straight to the enemy. The enemy army was scattered across the countryside, reveling in their plunder. By God’s grace and through His power, David recovered everything, including Abigail. David clearly showed himself here as a leader who demonstrated kindness and sought the Lord’s wisdom in all things. >> When tragedy strikes, how do we react? It is easy for our first response to be to vent on social media or turn to a close friend for advice. Today’s reading is a good reminder that our first stop should always be to fall to our knees.
Has God ever used someone else to speak truth straight into your life? Abigail was used by God to be a truth-bearer and to calm a hostile situation. After Samuel died, David moved into the Desert of Maon, where he met the household of Nabal, a wealthy—but disagreeable—man. David and his men treated Nabal’s shepherds with kindness. Yet, when David asked Nabal for kindness in return, the man harshly declined: “Who is this David?” (v. 10). When David received this report, he grabbed his sword and told 400 men to strap on theirs. There is no doubt what he planned to do. However, God in His grace sent Abigail, Nabal’s wife, to intervene. As soon as she heard what had happened, she gathered a gift of bread, wine, cakes, and sheep, and left with an entourage to meet David. When she rode up, David had just pronounced doom upon Nabal and his household (vv. 21–22). Abigail’s speech was thorough, eloquent, and piercingly true. We can almost imagine her rehearsing it on the donkey ride. She approached David with humility and even accepted the blame for what happened. She found common ground with David when she discredited Nabal as foolish (v. 25). Then she reminded David that the Lord had preserved him thus far. The Lord restrained David from taking revenge with his own hands. And in this, the Lord had done a good thing. She offered her extravagant gift and begged for forgiveness. Finally, she pronounced a blessing on David and appealed to the benefit of a clear conscience. David immediately recognized her wisdom as from the Lord and followed it. In fact, he admired her so much that, when God struck Nabal dead, David asked Abigail to be his wife (v. 39). >> We can learn from Abigail’s boldness in speaking the truth. Perhaps God is pressing on your heart the need to speak His truth to someone today. As you pray, ask Him for His guidance and wisdom.
This chapter of the Saul–David saga feels a lot like those classic Tom and Jerry cartoons where the mouse repeatedly outwits and eludes the pursuing cat. Over and over again Saul tries to attack David, and David narrowly escapes, aided by none other than Saul’s own children. The chapter begins with Saul’s ill-conceived attempt to enlist the help of his son Jonathan. The author reminds the reader of Jonathan’s affection for David, and Jonathan demonstrates that love by immediately warning David of his father’s plot (vv. 1–2). Then Jonathan hatched a plan of his own. He used persuasive techniques to change the heart and mind of his father. He started with logic. David had not harmed Saul. In fact, David’s actions had benefited Saul. Jonathan even provided the specific evidence of Goliath. He cited the authority of the Lord, the actual source of Saul’s deliverance. He finished with an emotional appeal. Why would Saul sin against innocent blood (v. 5)? Jonathan was persuasive, and Saul vowed in the Lord’s name that David would not be harmed. But the reprieve was temporary. When war returned and David experienced further victory, the evil spirit came again to Saul (v. 9). Once more, Saul hurled his spear at David who was playing his harp. David escaped. Saul was on the rampage yet again. This time Michal came to David’s defense. She took charge of the situation and directed David to flee out the window. She fooled her father’s messengers by covering an idol with goat hair and clothes and lying that David was sick. When Saul learned of the ruse, he was furious. His children had given him a taste of his own medicine. In response, David composed Psalm 59. >> The running theme of this dramatic chapter is that God preserved David as Israel’s next king, even when the odds seemed to be stacked in Saul’s favor. How have you observed or experienced God’s preservation?
Being born into royalty is a double-edged sword. Royal children enjoy the advantage of power and prestige, yet their lives are never entirely their own. Certainly, that was the case for Princess Michal, the younger daughter of King Saul. Michal is first mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:49, along with her three brothers and older sister Merab. But she doesn’t really come onto the scene until today’s passage. Between chapters 14 and 18, several significant events occurred. Samuel anointed David to be king (16:13). An evil spirit from the Lord terrorized Saul (16:14). Saul sent for David to be his armor bearer, and initially Saul loved him (16:19–21). In chapter 17, David killed Goliath. At that point, Saul’s affection began to wane. Throughout 1 Samuel 18, Saul’s jealously of David grew. First, Saul’s own son Jonathan made a covenant friendship with David (18:3). Then, after David returned from war, the women of Saul’s kingdom sang David’s praise (18:7). This ignited Saul’s smoldering anger, and the next day he hurled a spear in David’s direction. David narrowly escaped and continued to prosper because the Lord was with Him. In verse 17, Saul promised his firstborn Merab to David as a wife—in exchange for David’s commitment to fight the Philistines. This was Saul’s first covert plan to send David to the front lines. But David declined. Then Michal enters, and the first thing we learn about her is she loved David (18:20). Saul sees this as another opportunity for revenge. He offered Michal’s hand in marriage, asking for 100 Philistine foreskins as the bride price. Incredibly, David doubles the dowry. Saul gave Michal to David, recognizing that the Lord was with him, and that Michal loved him. David acts “more wisely” than Saul’s servants, and his reputation expands. >> Biblical wisdom thoughtfully puts into practice the truth of God’s Word. Believers are not to make rash decisions, but to bring every decision before God in prayer. Where do you need His wisdom today?
Paul Harvey was an American radio broadcaster for ABC News Radio known for his good humor, patriotism, and common sense. During his broadcasts he was known to present little-known facts on any given subject concluding with his famous tag line, “And now you know...the rest of the story.” In today’s passage, we learn the rest of Naomi and Ruth’s story. Boaz took Ruth as his wife, and she conceived a child, seemingly quite quickly. After ten years of barrenness in Moab, Ruth now gave birth to a son. The same women who once welcomed Naomi back to Bethlehem now gave praise to the Lord on her behalf. It was He who has enabled Ruth to conceive. It was He who provided the kinsman-redeemer. It was He who would renew and sustain life. It was He who must become famous. Not only that, but the women based their conviction on the women’s loving relationship (v. 15). Ruth loves Naomi, they said, even more than seven sons. The term here translated “love” is actually not hesed. It points to the same covenantal commitment expressed throughout the story. The final image is that of Naomi, holding and caring for her grandson. Our questions are answered. Her longing was satisfied. She was no longer empty. Her arms and her heart were full. But that’s not all! The book finishes with the genealogy from Obed to David. From the line of David would come the Messiah Himself! The hesed shown by Ruth and Naomi and Boaz had profound implications, not only for their lifetime but also for the nation of Israel for many generations to come. Because of their love, sacrifice, and obedience, future generations would receive God’s blessing. >> What a profound truth! Consider the ways hesed has been passed on to you from past generations, and how you can pass it on to the future generations. How can God be made famous through your hesed demonstrations of love?
There’s a point in most great stories when it seems like all hope is lost! Just as the main character is about to achieve success, things appear to fall apart. Often, this comes with an element of surprise. While Ruth hurried to share the good news with Naomi, Boaz headed into town to sit at the gate. The way he gathered ten elders shows that he was ready to firm up his legal commitment. The NIV translation introduces the next character like this: “just as the guardian-redeemer he had mentioned came along.” This is similar to the “just then” expression in Ruth 2:4. The word choice suggests the irony of the timing and God’s providence at work. One important way God shows His sovereignty is when He times all things, from large-scale, worldwide events down to the smallest details of our lives. Ruth 4:3–4 records the “all hope is lost” point for Naomi and Ruth, even though they aren’t present in the scene. Boaz lets the closer kinsman know about Naomi’s land: “I thought I should bring the matter to your attention” (v. 4). This man was first in line. Then, the guardian redeemer agrees to redeem it (v. 4). Wait— what?! That’s not how the story is supposed to go! But then Boaz calls his attention to the other part of the responsibility: Ruth. According to Deuteronomy 25:5–10, neither man was legally bound to marry her. This would be voluntary. But such a marriage would speak to the spirit of the law. It would represent a moral fulfillment—if not a legal one. Quickly, the true character of the nearer kinsman was revealed, and he withdrew his claim. There was no hesed here. Boaz was now free to act, and he legally committed to being the kinsman-redeemer (goel) for the family. All those present blessed the union. >> Have you ever experienced God’s “just in time” providence? Seeing how God has worked in our past emboldens us to trust His provision for our future.
Have you ever been so excited about what the next day would bring that you awoke quickly and eagerly for its start? That mood was in the air for Ruth and Boaz the morning following her visit. Ruth woke before sunrise, to make the trip home under cover of dawn without being noticed. Boaz cautioned her to keep her visit a secret for the time being. While she took the initiative to come to him, now he took the initiative to guard and nurture their plan. Before she left, Boaz gave her a gift. He fills her cloak with barley, yet another act of hesed and a symbol of his commitment to both Ruth and Naomi. When Ruth arrived home, Naomi was waiting for a report. The author summarizes Ruth’s response by simply letting the reader know that Ruth told Naomi “everything” (v. 17). One specific line of their dialogue is highly intentional. Ruth adds: “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed’” (v. 17). No doubt, the use of the word “empty” communicates a key reversal regarding the emptiness Naomi had felt. In 1:21 she told the women of Bethlehem: “I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty.” Ruth heard and felt her deep despair. Now Ruth had the joy of bringing fullness to her mother- in-law—first of all, physical in the form of more food. But there was more to come. They trusted Boaz unreservedly. Naomi articulated that confidence and encouraged Ruth to wait patiently. Boaz would now take center stage. His next actions would show God’s provision on their behalf. >> God can act quickly, sometimes reversing a troubling situation in a single moment. Consider the problems you are facing that feel unresolved. You can trust God to fill you and to meet your needs. It may happen with a sudden reversal, but if not, know that God is present and holds your future.
Imagine this dramatic scene. It had been a busy day in the fields, and Boaz was exhausted. He went to lie down in a quiet corner spot, “at the far end of the grain pile” (v. 7). Quietly, Ruth approached the sleeping man, uncovered his legs, and settled at his feet. In the middle of the night, Boaz woke with a start, shocked to see a figure in the darkness. “Who are you?” he asked (v. 9). “I am your servant Ruth,” she replied, using the term ama for “servant” (v. 9). Her word choice was significant; showing great respect. God was in the details of this event. He provided the right place, a corner where Ruth’s visit could happen without interruption or misinterpretation. Thus, the theme of God’s providence is highlighted again. Then Ruth made her bold request: “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family” (v. 9). The Hebrew word for the “corner of your garment” is kanap, the same word Boaz used in Ruth 2:12 to bless Ruth: “May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings (kanap) you have come to take refuge.” In effect, Ruth was asking Boaz to become the answer to his own prayer. Boaz responded with the high character we have come to expect. He blessed Ruth again and praised her kindness. He told her that this hesed was even greater than her previous hesed. She had displayed love upon love. Boaz assured Ruth that he would honor her request. However, according to tradition, another man, a closer kinsman redeemer, must first be consulted. Boaz would follow the law in the morning. >> Ruth sets a wonderful example for us by showing love upon love to others. What are ways you can demonstrate hesed to the people in your life today? Look for quiet opportunities to demonstrate unexpected compassion, kindness and generosity to others today.
Are you a risk taker? Whether we realize it or not, we make choices every day, deciding what level of risk we are willing to take. What will be the consequences of our next steps? Ruth had been gleaning in Boaz’s field for two months when Naomi approached with what seemed like a risky idea. Naomi had been healing from her grief, and now was ready to move forward. She realized that the current arrangement with Boaz, although generous, was not permanent. And when Naomi died, Ruth would be vulnerable as a widow and a foreigner. Naomi’s plan involved Boaz, “our relative” (2:20). Her use of the plural “our” (in the Hebrew) gives Ruth family status. The Hebrew grammar also emphasizes that Boaz was not just a relative, but the relative (3:20). Boaz was the one who would redeem the family line. Still, Naomi’s plan involved risk. She advised Ruth to take a bath, put on perfume, and adorn herself in her best clothes. In 2 Samuel 12:20, David went through a similar process to prepare for worship after his son’s death. These acts signaled an end of mourning. Ruth had likely been wearing widow’s garments. Now her time of mourning was complete. Ruth was to go to the threshing floor, where Boaz was sleeping to protect his harvest from animals and thieves. Once he had gone to sleep, Ruth was to uncover his feet, lie down, and wait for his instructions. Was this as brazen an act as it seems to us today? That is unlikely since the author went to great lengths to establish Boaz’s high character. But it did come with risk. Would Boaz welcome her gesture? How would he respond? >> Before we are fully able to move into a new season—even a very beautiful one—we must take the time to “say goodbye” to what came before. What things might you need to say “goodbye” to in order to step into God’s plan for your future?
Have you ever experienced an extended, difficult season in life—and, right in the middle of it, God provided a blessing that kept you going and trusting? That is exactly what happened to Ruth and Naomi. After her visit to Boaz’s field, Ruth arrived home with an extraordinary amount of barley. When Naomi saw God’s abundant provision, she proclaimed, "The LORD bless him!” (Ruth 2:20). Her next statement has interesting grammatical ambiguity in the Hebrew. She says, “He has not stopped showing his kindness [hesed] to the living and the dead.” Is Naomi referring to Boaz or the Lord? The NIV keeps the ambiguity of the original. Commentators debate the point. Was her lack of clarity intentional? Maybe her declaration relates to both Boaz and to God. Boaz was their kinsman- redeemer, their goel. Goel has no easy English translation. The concept is almost exclusively Hebrew, but the basic meaning is to “redeem, recover, and restore,” a theme not only in Ruth but also throughout Scripture. Boaz had redeemed Ruth and Naomi from starvation, but his redemption would go far beyond this, in God’s time. As chapter 2 ends, Ruth the Moabitess (the author reminds us again of Ruth’s foreign status) tells Naomi that Boaz did not just invite her to glean for one day but until the end of the harvest. It ensured that they would have food to eat and also guaranteed Ruth’s safety. Verse 23 summarizes the harvest season and gives three concluding details: Ruth stayed close to Boaz’s servants; she gleaned during both the barley and the wheat harvests; she was still living with her mother-in-law. Naomi and Ruth’s physical needs had been met for two months, but their long-term needs were still in question. >> Sometimes we experience what feels like a “yes, but” answer to prayer. God’s provision wasn’t entirely what we expected. Those times may challenge our faith, but it may also mean that God isn’t finished with our story.
Jehovah Jireh is a beautiful name for God, meaning “the Lord will provide.” God’s abundant provision is exactly what we see in the lives of Naomi and Ruth. In Ruth chapter 2, we meet Boaz, Naomi’s relative on her husband’s side. This is important since Israelite marriages happened within a certain social group. Boaz was also from the clan (mispaha) of Elimelech. The mispaha formed the framework for the goel (kinsman-redeemer). Now that Naomi and Ruth were back in Bethlehem, Naomi didn’t seem to have a particular plan. Ruth took the initiative. She asked for permission to go into the fields to pick up leftover grain, God’s way to provide for Israel’s widows (Deut. 14:29). Ruth probably knew that the Israelites did not always follow this law. She may have also been concerned about her foreigner status. Hence, her clause: “Behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor” (Ruth 2:2). With Naomi’s blessing, Ruth headed into the field and soon found herself in a field belonging to Boaz. In the English, we read, “As it turned out” (v. 3). In the Hebrew, though, the phrase literally means “her chance chanced.” By exaggerating “chance,” the phrase ironically underscores another theme in Ruth—the sovereignty and providence of God. Ruth 2:4 begins with the little phrase “Just then.” In the original language, this phrase emphasizes the unexpected and providential nature of Boaz’s arrival at exactly the right moment. The remainder of today’s passage includes three close-up scenes, mostly filled with dialogue. First, Boaz asked his workers about Ruth, and they told him her backstory. Second, Boaz gave Ruth access to his fields and honored her reputation of hesed. Finally, Boaz arranged for Ruth to glean unhindered, an extraordinary act of hesed. >> Praise God today for His abundant provision and redeeming power. Consider all the ways God’s hesed is evident in your life and the life of your friends and family. Thank Him for those mercies today.
Hesed is a beautiful Hebrew word that has no obvious English translation. It implies covenantal loyalty, kindness, faithfulness, and love. And this theme of hesed runs throughout the book of Ruth. In verse 15, Naomi urges Ruth to follow Orpah’s example and return to her people. Ruth famously replies: “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). Despite Naomi’s pain and bitterness and logical appeal, Ruth pledged her loving commitment (hesed). And, through Ruth, God was caring for Naomi with His own act of hesed. So the two women traveled back to Bethlehem. When they arrived, the whole town gave a glad reception. The women chattered: “Can this be Naomi?” (v. 19). Naomi squelched their excitement with a strange order: “Don’t call me Naomi.” In that culture, a person’s name expressed her character. So Naomi said to call her Mara meaning “bitter” because the Lord had made her such. She had left Bethlehem full, and God had brought her back empty. Here she blames God four times (vv. 20–21). If the story were just about Naomi’s quest for food and home, it could finish right here. She was safely back in Bethlehem. She was bitter, but she was also fed. But verse 22 finishes with a subtle, and wonderful, foreshadowing of the work that God would do. Naomi was, in fact, not alone. She was accompanied by Ruth the Moabitess. Her foreignness is highlighted here. And the author notes that the barley harvest was just beginning. The timing was providential. God, in His hesed, would provide more than these two women could ever imagine. >> Sometimes we cling to our bitterness and pain, blaming God for the circumstances that have befallen us. Naomi’s story reminds us that we do not always realize what God is doing behind the scenes. Be encouraged that God is at work in your life, even when you do not see it.
In chess, logic is a key ingredient. Before you make a move, you will study the board to anticipate the moves of your opponent. Then you make the most logical decision. Your victory depends on it! As Naomi considered the disaster that had come upon her and her daughters-in-law, she considered what next step would be most logical. Naomi and her daughters-in-law had left for Bethlehem. They hadn’t gone far, when Naomi stopped and told them to turn back. She also offered a blessing: “May the Lord show you kindness [hesed], as you have shown kindness to your dead husbands and to me” (v. 8). We will dig into this theme of hesed in the days to come. Naomi’s suggestion was a great sacrifice on her part. If they followed her advice, she would have to make the long, dangerous trip alone. But she knew that the best thing for her daughters-in-law was to find new husbands. Their own security depended on it. While Naomi is often critiqued for her bitterness, she was also acting selflessly. When Ruth and Orpah refused to leave, Naomi responded with logic. She would have no more sons for them to marry. And even if she were able to gain a new husband and conceive a child, the women wouldn’t wait until that baby grew up, would they? Naomi’s reasoning made sense. But throughout this story, God’s ways often flew in the face of logic. Naomi finished with two impassioned declarations to scare some sense into her daughters-in-law. First, she declared that her situation was more “bitter” than theirs. Then, she blamed the Lord for all that has happened. Why would Ruth and Orpah risk becoming a target for His divine vengeance? Orpah hugged Naomi, turned around, and headed home. Ruth stayed. What would happen next? >> Our own wisdom or “logical” choices don’t always line up with God’s plans. It isn’t wrong to take logical next steps, but we must allow God to work in ways we don’t expect.
In the opening paragraphs of a story, the author reveals the setting, the main character, and the problem. The first verses of the book of Ruth begin with the setting: “in the days when the judges ruled.” This was a time of turmoil for the people of Israel. Over and over, they had repeated a cycle of sin, suffering, repentance, and restoration—then sin again. It was also a time when everyone did “as they saw fit” (Judges 21:25). And if that wasn’t bad enough, there was a famine in the land. We meet some main characters: a man from Bethlehem (Elimelek, which means “my God is King”), his wife Naomi (which means “beautiful, pleasant, good”), and their two sons. They are Ephrathites, and they go to Moab to find food. Because Moab was an enemy of Israel, this move was both dangerous and shameful. This paragraph condenses ten years of Naomi’s life. She had suffered years of loss after loss. Her home, country, safety, and her husband—all that was dear and familiar. Naomi’s sons married Moabite women, even though marriages to the “people of the land” were strictly forbidden (Deut. 7:3). Both marriages were marked by infertility, so when the sons died, no one was left to carry on the family line. Naomi was empty and alone. She had no one to care for her in her old age. She was in a desperate state. Because of the famine, the family left Bethlehem for Moab. In verse 6, Naomi decided to return from Moab to Bethlehem because she heard that the Lord had provided food there for His people. Watch as key themes of reversal, returning, and redemption begin to emerge. >> Some of us have walked through seasons of grief where it seems we suffer loss after loss. Whether this loss is in the past or the present, you may deeply identify with Naomi. The author wants us to. Ask God to open your heart to His redemptive plan.
Poetry communicates in a unique way. Rather than simply detailing the facts, poetry communicates the emotion of an experience. By using rhythm and rhyme, sensory details and metaphor, poets not only convey a word’s meaning but also its sound and the feeling it evokes. Today’s Bible reading is a poem— the famous and fascinating Song of Deborah. Because poetry is meant to be heard, we encourage you to read the whole thing aloud. While the preceding chapters give the historical account of the battle against Sisera, this chapter offers a more emotional and even haunting response. Deborah’s song is one of the most difficult and debated passages in the Old Testament. However, there are a couple of key features on which most commentators agree. First, there is a clear narrowing of focus as we move through the poem. It begins with a look at the whole nation of Israel, for whom life was insecure and unstable during this period (vv. 1–11). Then the poem focuses on ten tribes, which did and did not participate in the battle (vv. 12–23). Finally, it retells the story of Jael and, interestingly, the mother of Sisera who is indirectly judged for her own role in condoning the wickedness of her son (vv. 14–30). Second, some prominent themes emerge from Deborah’s song. Similar to the historical account in chapter 4, the Lord is praised (v. 31). The poem celebrates that He is at work, and without His intervention, there would have been no deliverance. God chose to work through seemingly weak, but willing, vessels. He used two women to destroy an entire army! Deborah raised up Barak, and Jael brought down Sisera—not through their own power, but through the strength of the Lord alone. >> Too often we focus only on what we feel able to accomplish on our own. While having a “can-do” spirit can be a positive trait, we must never forget that God can accomplish even greater things through us.
The battle between the Israelites and the Canaanites happened exactly as Deborah prophesied it would. Barak and Deborah moved in with their army of 10,000. Their opponent Sisera gathered his 900 iron chariots and all of his men to fend them off. Then Deborah gave Barak the signal: “charge!” Certainly, this was a dramatic moment as both sides charged forward hoping that their strength would win the battle. But God was calling the shots. Both Deborah and the author proclaim His control: “This is the day the LORD has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the LORD gone ahead of you?” (v. 14). “At Barak’s advance, the LORD routed Sisera and all his chariots and army by the sword” (v. 15). What happens next is surprising and a fitting finish to the conflict. Sisera ran away and tried to hide in the tent of Heber, thinking they were friends. But Heber’s wife Jael had a plan. She invited Sisera in and— ironically—told him not to be afraid. Then she covered him up, as if to hide him. Sisera asked for a drink of water, but Jael offered him milk, perhaps to encourage sleep. As soon as he fell asleep, Jael drove a tent peg through his temple. When Barak finally arrived, Jael showed him what she has done. And thus, Deborah’s prophesy from Judges 4:9 came true. The honor and glory for this victory went to a woman, and not even to Deborah as we might have imagined. Before we give the glory to Jael, the author reminds us—again, in verse 23—that it is really God who had victory over the Canaanite king. It was God who cared for His people. It is always God who holds the ultimate power. >> This is still a remarkably relevant truth for us today. In the midst of our global, national, and personal problems, we can cling to the truth that God alone holds the power. May we look to Him above all others for protection, comfort, wisdom, and care.
Have you ever experienced this cycle? We sin, suffer, repent, and are reconciled, only to fall back into sin again. This pattern is played out again and again in the Old Testament. In Judges 4:1–3 we learn how the sons of Israel did evil (again) in the sight of the Lord, and how He sold them into the hand of Jaban, king of Canaan. They called out for salvation and the answer to their cry was, in part, Deborah—a prophetess and spokesperson for God (v. 4). She was a wife to Lappidoth and a judge for the people, the only female to hold this title. Immediately, Deborah took charge of the situation. Her level of authority over Barak is surprising for the time. Nevertheless, she summoned him, and God used her to deliver His call to Barak to lead the army of Israel into battle (v. 6). Barak’s response in verse 8 reminds us of the way most of us navigated junior high social engagements. “I’ll go if you go.” He hardly sounds heroic. However, while many commentators see his reaction as cowardly, others see other motivations, besides fear, for him to ask for Deborah’s presence on the battle front. The Septuagint (Greek OT) includes this phrase: “For I [Barak] never know what day the angel of the Lord will give me success.” So perhaps Barak wanted Deborah to provide continued counsel. Others believe Deborah represented to Barak and the people the very presence of God. We can’t know for certain Barak’s motivation, but we do see from Deborah’s reply that she wasn’t impressed (v. 9). There would be consequences for his dependence. The glory for this victory would go to a woman. >> Like the people of Israel, we sometimes get stuck in a cycle of sin. We fall back into the same pattern, never fully moving out of the past and into what God is calling us to do next. Ask God to lead you out of sin’s trap and into the next season.
What does it mean to live by faith? The essence of faith is to take God at His word and trust in Him. In both Testaments, believers were called to rely upon God for forgiveness and salvation. Those who live in faith depend upon God to do what only He can do. Faith played a big part in Rahab’s story. Joshua 3–6 describes the military advancement of Israel upon the city of Jericho. It was an unusual battle plan that required great faith to execute. Rather than attacking outright or sneaking up on the fortified city, God’s people were told to march around Jericho once a day for six days, carrying the Ark of the Covenant. Seven priests carried trumpets of rams’ horns (vv. 6–7). On the seventh day, they were to circle seven times, culminating in a loud shout and a trumpet blast. By faith, they did what God commanded. On cue, the walls collapsed—clearly an act of God. In Joshua 6:22–25, Joshua and the spies fulfilled the promise they made to Rahab. The same two men who were the beneficiaries of her kindness escorted her family safely out of the crumbling ruins. When the book of Joshua was written, Rahab was still living among the Israelites. She had become one of God’s own. To top it off, Rahab’s brave and faith-filled actions are affirmed twice in the New Testament, in Hebrews and James. Rahab’s faith is commended in the “Hall of Faith” (Hebrews 11) alongside Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, as well as Joseph and Moses. In contrast to everyone around her, she placed her faith in the God of Israel. She was willing to risk her very life to live by faith. >> Try to write your own definition of faith. Consider people in your life who have shown you what it means to live by faith and consider how God might be calling you to step out in obedience to Him today.
Biblical providence refers to God’s work of providing for the needs of His people. It is sometimes surprisingly miraculous and often seemingly simple. Always, it is deeply compassionate and a cause for gratitude. Today’s Scripture passage pulses with providence. After Rahab declared that Israel’s God was the one true God, she begged the Israelite spies for protection for herself and her family. Some commentators are disturbed by Rahab’s request and the spies’ agreement to honor it. After all, Rahab was a Canaanite prostitute. They see the spies’ agreement as direct disobedience to the Mosaic rules of holy war. Others, however, see Rahab’s situation as wholly unique because of her faith confession in Israel’s God. By proclaiming Him to be the one true God, she denounced the gods of Canaan. Her request to be spared and join with Israel would change her entire life. We can be sure that it was only by God’s providence that Rahab’s heart became softened. It was only by providence that she hatched a successful escape plan, that she lived on the wall with a strategically placed window, and that the spies came to her home in the first place. Everything went according to plan, and when they returned to the Israelite camp, they told Joshua the whole story: “The LORD has surely given the whole land into our hands.” Their report is a stark contrast to the pessimistic statement the twelve spies gave in Numbers 13: “The people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large” (v. 28). “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are” (v. 31). The spies in Joshua 2 were confident by comparison. Their victory was not a result of Israel’s strength but won by the providence of the Lord. >> Consider how God’s providence has affected your life. Look back at the ways God orchestrated past events for His purpose. When we remember how God has worked in our past, it helps us trust Him with our future.
Since World War II, the Force RECON branch of United States Marine Corps has completed information-gathering missions that can only be accomplished by soldiers on the ground. In today’s passage, Joshua initiated his own on-the-ground intelligence operation. Rather than running headlong into battle, he sent spies into Jericho, the most strategic and fortified city in the region. The spies arrived after dark and went directly to the house of Rahab, a harlot. Why would they go to this disreputable place? First, it was probably easy for strangers in town to enter her home without raising suspicion. Second, her popular place of business would have been a strategic source of information. And third, located in the city wall, it offered a quick escape route if one became necessary. News of the spies’ presence traveled immediately to the king. Jericho was on super-high alert, and its residents had good reason to be afraid. The God of Israel was on the move. Providentially, though, Rahab understood the spies’ mission and was sympathetic to it. She leapt into action and hid the spies under stalks of flax. Then she risked her own safety by lying to the king’s men when they pounded on her door. With the immediate threat abated, Rahab addressed the spies. She began with an acknowledgment, “I know that the LORD has given you this land,” and an admission, “all who live in this country are melting in fear” (v. 9). Then Rahab made this shocking declaration: “The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (v. 11). As a Canaanite, Rahab would have been raised to worship many gods. Yet, in that pivotal moment, she declared that the God of Israel is the one true God. >> In our culture today, how boldly do we declare that the Lord is the one true God? Consider what you can learn from Rahab’s risky public declaration. Consider how you can speak boldly for God.
Have you ever experienced the call of God in your life? We know that God calls His people in at least two ways: generally, we are called into a redemptive and obedient relationship with Him, and sometimes specifically we are given a particular assignment for His glory. This month we will return to study the lives of women in the Old Testament (see our first study in this series in March 2021). By looking closely at their lives, we will see how God called some to significant kingdom work and how He used others for His glory, even despite themselves. The first woman we encounter is Rahab. While she doesn’t appear in today’s passage, the first chapter of Joshua helps us understand her place in the story. Moses had just died, and a still wandering Israel was looking for a new leader. In verses 1–9, God called Joshua to step into that leadership position. He charged Joshua, multiple times, to have courage and take strength. This was not going to be easy. God also instructed Joshua to obey. The key to Joshua’s success would be his faithfulness to God’s law. Notice that, multiple times, God promised Joshua His presence. Just as God had been with Moses, He would be with Joshua and His people. Joshua wasted no time in picking up the baton of leadership. In verse 10, he ordered his officers to prepare the people to move, giving special instructions to the Reubenites, Gadites, and half of the tribe of Manasseh, who would be settling on the eastern side of the Jordan. Israel responded to Joshua’s leadership with complete obedience as well—their own call to both courage and submission. >> As we study the lives of these Old Testament women, beginning with Rahab, consider if God may be calling you to something that requires courage and submission. Remember that, when He calls you, He also promises His presence all along the way.
What do airlines, big-box retail stores, restaurants, and churches have in common? Many of them have greeters. Greeters stand at the entrance and welcome you. They are such a common feature these days that we hardly notice them. Paul’s letters often included greetings. Like the letters, emails, and messages we send, friendly greetings like this were often included in letters written during the New Testament era. But Paul observed this custom with a theological twist. For example, in verse 21 he greets “all God’s people,” or as the Greek text puts it, “every saint.” What makes every Christian worthy of this title? Paul reveals the answer in the second phrase of this verse. It is because they are “in Christ Jesus.” This shared bond changes the nature of our relationships with one another. We were once strangers, but we are now part of the same spiritual family. All those who are in Christ are “brothers and sisters.” The apostle’s mention of “those who belong to Caesar’s household” in verse 22 is a vivid demonstration of the power of the gospel to unite those who come from a wide variety of social backgrounds. This is not a reference to royal family members but to those who served as slaves and freedmen. Paul’s closing benediction reveals the secret that unites such a diverse group into one spiritual family, that he designates as “all God’s people.” It is the shared experience of God’s grace through the Lord Jesus Christ (v. 23). When you greet someone in the church, it’s not just about being polite. You are acknowledging the bond you share in Jesus Christ. You are a family, connected by our Savior. Together, we live in Christ. >> As we conclude this study of Philippians, consider what you have learned. What are your biggest takeaways? What verse or passage has stayed with you? Tomorrow, join us as we begin a new study: Women of the Old Testament, Part Two.
We’ve all heard the saying that money does not bring happiness. But do we actually believe it? Do we live like it? Following Jesus should have a direct impact on how we view wealth. We are called to trust God with every bit of our finances and to be open- handed in our giving. Two major misconceptions get in the way of our generosity. First, we mistakenly believe that we can find happiness in what we possess. Second, we incorrectly believe that we alone are responsible for our own prosperity. If we have done well, it is because we earned it. Jesus addressed the first misconception when He warned that “life does not consist in an abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15). Paul deals with the second in Philippians 4:19 with this promise: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Material wealth and true riches are not the same. But according to Jesus, the way we handle material blessings is a proving ground for true wealth. Worldly wealth exposes what is in our hearts. “No one can serve two masters,” Jesus warns in Luke 16:13. “Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” The Bible recognizes the legitimacy of ownership (Acts 5:4). But we must always remember that our possessions, and our bank account, ultimately belong to God. We are God’s stewards. Scripture also warns us not to put our hope in wealth because it is uncertain. Instead, our confidence must be in God “who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Tim. 6:17). It is God who makes it possible for us to be generous. >> Greed thrives on little greeds. We should avoid the misconception that we are owed the things we possess. The spirit of greed is the opposite of grace.
Some Christians shy away from the mission field because they fear they will need to raise support. They either worry that they will be unsuccessful or feel uncomfortable about the perception that they are living off the charity of others. Paul had a very different view. He wanted the Philippians to continue to support his ministry, not so much for his benefit but for theirs. In today’s passage, the apostle uses two metaphors to speak of their financial gifts. On the one hand, he describes their contribution as an investment that would produce dividends (v. 17). Paul’s desire for the Philippians was that more would be “credited” to their account. He describes their gift as “full payment” (v. 18). This language seems to imply an obligation of support on the part of the Philippians. This is consistent with what Scripture says elsewhere. Jesus taught that “the worker is worthy of his keep” (Matt. 10:10). Paul describes this obligation as “the right of support” and observed that “the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Cor. 9:12, 14). The other metaphor Paul used in verse 18 to describe their support was that of a sacrifice. He characterized their gift as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” Contrary to the teaching of the prosperity gospel, which appeals to greed, Paul’s theology of Christian giving was motivated by worship. Our giving has a practical aim in supporting God’s work, but it is ultimately an act of devotion. We give out of love for God. Giving must be more than a duty. God will accept only those gifts that are freely given. >> When we support the Lord’s work, we express gratitude not only to those from whom we have received the benefit of ministry but ultimately to the Lord Himself. Do you have a plan for giving to the Lord included in your budget?
If you need to rewire a thermostat or replace the J-trap in your sink, you can find an online video showing you how to do it all by yourself. With all the training material available on the internet, we may be tempted to think we can accomplish anything by ourselves. But that idea can be misleading and dangerous when applied to our faith. Religious beliefs that emphasize self-help and self-effort do not depend upon God. Christianity, on the other hand, is a faith that relies upon divine effort. God is the one who saves. He empowers us to live the Christian life. We also know that God chooses to work through His people. Christian community is important in the life of the believer. Paul’s conviction that he could be content no matter the circumstance did not mean that he was unappreciative of the help offered by the Philippian believers (v. 14). When he left Macedonia to preach the gospel in the southern region of Greece known as Achaia, the Philippians were his only financial supporters. They not only shared their finances, but their support was also a way of sharing in Paul’s troubles (v. 14). It is important to help one another. In Romans 15:30, the apostle wrote: “I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me.” When we see someone in trouble, we can do more than just offer sympathy. We can take practical steps to help carry the load of those in need. We may share our finances or lend a hand. In addition, we can pray. Prayer is spiritual, but it is also practical. >> Are you tempted to practice a DIY version of your faith? As you go about your day, reflect on how many times you rely on yourself to accomplish your goals. How would life change if you gave each moment over to God and asked for His power, help, and direction?
When my son Jarred was little, he liked to watch cartoons on Saturday mornings. The commercials were mostly aimed at children and usually promoted a new toy. After each one, he would say, “I’m going to get that.” Proverbs 27:20 says that human eyes “are never satisfied.” No matter what we have, we always seem to want a little more. Marketers depend upon this and try to stir our discontent by promising more than their products can deliver. On the other hand, Paul had “learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (v. 11). The Greek word that is translated as “content” means to be self-sufficient, but Paul is not saying that the secret to contentment is to depend upon oneself. The word conveys the idea of being independent. Paul did not rely on his circumstances for happiness. Due to this, he was just as able to be content when he had little as when he had much. What was his secret? He had learned to depend upon God (v. 13). The key to contentment is not positive thinking or mind over matter but the power of God. He knew that God would give him the strength necessary to meet his circumstances, whatever the situation. Not only did this enable Paul to endure difficulties like hunger and limited resources, but it also kept him from bitterness when others who might have helped him did not (v. 10). The mindset Paul describes is not stoicism, nor is it a fatalistic acceptance of his circumstances. The correct word for the kind of thinking Paul describes is faith. It is the same conviction expressed in Hebrews 13:6: “So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” >> Are you facing difficult circumstances today? The Lord has promised to be your helper. You don’t have to be a match for the difficulties you encounter. God will come to your aid.
In 1826 a French lawyer named Anthelme Brillat-Savarin wrote, “Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are.” Some years later, the anthropologist and philosopher Ludwig Andreas Feuerbach observed, “Man is what he eats.” Ever since then, people have been saying, “You are what you eat.” Paul takes this idea even further. He does not say that you are what you eat, but you are what you think. To put it another way, Paul’s basic assertion is that those who hope to live Christianly must first learn to think Christianly. He identifies seven major characteristics of this way of thinking. The Christian way of thinking is marked by truth because it is shaped by Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). This way of thinking is noble. It involves patterns of thought and describes a way of life that is worthy of respect. This is because the way of Christ is also the way of righteousness. Those who have been made righteous through God’s grace learn to live uprightly. Because the Christian way of thinking is based on the truth of Scripture, it can also be described as pure, lovely, and admirable. Throughout the ages, the teachings of Christ and the Christian way of life have been admired by millions. As Paul puts it, they have seen the Christian way of thinking as excellent or praiseworthy. This has even been true of the church’s enemies. The second-century theologian Tertullian observed how the pagans marveled at the early church and said, “look...how they love one another.” Christian love is one of the church’s most convincing arguments! >> Do you want to learn how to think this way? Paul’s strategy is simple: “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (v. 9).
Prayer is not rocket science. You just talk to God. What could be easier? But in practice, we may find praying to be more challenging than we expected. It is not like an ordinary conversation, where we can gauge God’s response by judging His facial expression or body language. When we pray, God is mostly silent. But silence does not mean that God is unresponsive. Silence is an essential element of listening, and listening is vital to achieving true conversation. In Philippians 4:6, the apostle prescribes prayer as a remedy for anxiety. He says, “in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” If there is a distinction between prayers and petitions, it is a difference between the general and the specific. There are many kinds of prayers. But the essential nature of prayer is that it involves a petition or request. In most of our prayers, we are asking for something from God. The peace that results from prayer does not come from an assumption that we will get whatever we ask. God always answers our prayers, but sometimes His answer is no. Instead, this is a peace that comes from God. The fact that God hears us when we pray means that He both knows our request and understands what we genuinely need (Matt. 6:32). God knows both our desires and our actual need. He also knows how our request fits into His plan. Our prayers should also contain thanksgiving. It is unlikely that we will experience peace if our petitions are not also mixed with gratitude for what God has already done for us. Peace is a gift from God, but thankfulness is a choice. >> What do you need today? Don’t be afraid to be specific as you make your requests. Then trust God to know how to answer your prayer. Reflect on God’s past goodness and give thanks.
When we were kids, my brother and sister and I sometimes fought with one another. When my mother saw us, she would shake her head and say, “This is why there will never be world peace.” Family members don’t always get along. And even within the family of God, we sometimes have disagreements that become serious. In Philippians 4:2, the apostle pleads with Euodia and Syntyche to “be of the same mind in the Lord.” At one time, these two women served alongside Paul in the gospel. The Greek word in verse 3 translated “contended at my side” literally means “to struggle together.” Paul employs the same word in Philippians 1:27 when he urges the Philippians to stand firm by “striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.” Why do Christians divide? We face division when we shift our focus away from what we hold in common, namely the faith of the gospel. Instead of struggling together on behalf of Christ, we strive against one another and act out of self-interest. On the one hand, it should encourage us to know that the early church faced the same problems as we do. At the same time, it is a warning. This self-centered approach damages our spiritual life and the church’s mission. It is important to note that Paul does not say that Christians must agree about everything. We may differ about many things, and some of our differences may be significant. But we are to be of the same mind “in the Lord.” Occasionally, the differences that arise between believers grow so serious that they need the intervention of a third party before they can reconcile. Paul asked another Philippian believer, referred to only as “my true companion,” to “help” them. >> We cannot force people to reconcile, but we may be able to help them. Is there someone who needs your help as a peacemaker today (see Matt. 5:9)? Ask God for wisdom and the opportunity to intervene when needed.
Those who become naturalized citizens in the United States are not required to give up their citizenship in their country of origin. They enjoy the privilege and corresponding responsibilities of dual citizenship. Christians also possess a kind of dual citizenship. We may have a national identity based on our country of origin or an ethnic heritage that gives us a sense of who we are. But because we have been united to Christ by faith, our primary identity is now heavenly. We are citizens of heaven because we have a heavenly expectation. We “eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,” who will return one day to establish His kingdom on earth (v. 20). Whatever other labels we may claim, our primary allegiance is to Him. What is more, Scripture tells us that we have already begun to enjoy the benefits of our citizenship in that kingdom and will one day experience it in its fullness (Col. 1:12–13). On this side of the Second Coming, we experience Christ’s kingdom through the power it has to “bring everything under his control” (Phil. 3:21). God demonstrates His rule by transforming us through His Spirit. As Romans 14:17 says, the kingdom is a matter of “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” The experience of God’s transforming power in the present time anticipates a more significant change that will take place in the age to come. Christ “will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body” (v. 21). Not only is the gospel a message of forgiveness, but it is also one of transformation. The great hope of the Christian life is that one day “we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). >> What does it mean to live as a citizen of the kingdom? According to 1 John 3:3, “All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.”
According to a popular saying, life doesn’t come with an instruction manual. But this isn’t really true when it comes to the Christian life. The Bible is full of instructions that show us how to live. But there is more to learning how to live the Christian life than reading alone. Observation and imitation are also important. However, there is an edge to Paul’s command. When he tells the Philippian believers to “keep your eyes on those who live as we do” in verse 17, the word he uses is often associated with caution. This is the sort of careful watching done by those who are on their guard. The apostle’s directive assumes that not everyone who wanted to make an impression on the church was necessarily a good influence. It may also imply that some in the church were not as careful as they should have been about whose example they chose to follow. If this was true in Paul’s day, it is exponentially more so in our own. Social media is filled with people who aspire to be influencers. We are often passive consumers of popular media designed to motivate us to buy products and attempts to shape our values. Every day we are pressed into a mold without even realizing it. The solution that Paul offers is to be careful about those we take as our role models. One of the most important questions we must ask is one of motivation. What is driving those who seek to influence us? Many who claim to have our best interests in view are really looking out for themselves (v. 19). The other, more fundamental question we must ask is one of values (v. 18). Is their mindset on heavenly things? >> Who is influencing you? Is there a more mature believer who can serve as a kind of spiritual coach? Ask them if they would have time to mentor you. Perhaps your pastor can suggest such a person.
Marathon runners sometimes speak of “hitting the wall” in the later stages of the race. They lose energy and question whether they will finish due to the depletion of stored glycogen, a carbohydrate stored in our muscles. When we “hit the wall” in the marathon of the Christian life, the cause is usually spiritual rather than physical. It can be due to a deficiency of faith or a lack of understanding. We may not realize that the life we want to live is already ours. The effort involved in the Christian life takes hold of what Christ has already obtained for us (v. 12). We are not trying to earn our salvation but seek to experience its reality in daily living. As New Testament commentator H. C. G. Moule explains, it is not a matter of attaining a goal but accepting a gift. Some are unsuccessful in the Christian life because they do not understand themselves. They believe they have made more progress in the practice of holiness than is the case. To paraphrase Paul’s language in verse 13, they think they have arrived when they have only barely begun. Those that Paul characterizes as “mature” in verse 15 have learned to keep both perspectives in view. They know what Christ has done and are confident of the righteous standing He has obtained for them. At the same time, they know that they still have room to grow. Because of this, they are forward-looking in their perspective, like a runner who is straining toward the finish line. Instead of giving up in despair or slowing down out of spiritual complacency, they “press on toward the goal” (v. 14). >> Your race of the Christian life differs from any other you have experienced because it is a race that has already been won. Because the trophy is a salvation that is already ours and God’s grace is what energizes us, our goal is to “live up to what we have already attained” (v. 16).
Scientists think they’ve identified the part of our brains that responds to familiar faces. An area known as the temporal region may be connected to the way we recognize faces. Perhaps this is what allows us to know people when we see them. Paul speaks of his desire to “know” Christ in today’s passage, but this means more than just recognizing His face. Before that fateful day on the Damascus Road, the apostle knew facts about Jesus. But as a believer, Paul came to know Jesus as the Christ in a personal way. His life was transformed. In verse 10, Paul focuses on two parts of Christ’s saving work, his death and resurrection, but in reverse order. First, he talks about “the power of his resurrection.” Christ’s resurrection is proof that God accepted Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. Jesus “was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification” (Rom. 4:25). Christ’s resurrection is the source of our spiritual power. The same Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is the one who gives us power to live the Christian life (Rom. 8:11). When Paul says his ambition is to “somehow” attain the resurrection of the dead in verse 11, he did not mean he was uncertain about whether he would be raised from the dead. He was emphasizing his determination to live in Christ. Paul’s ambition was to live out the new life Christ gave through His death and resurrection. Because of Christ’s death, Paul could say no to the impulse of sin, just as the Savior’s resurrection empowered him to obey God. Knowing Christ involves much more than simply understanding the facts. To know Christ is to live in the power of His resurrection. >> Today you will find opportunities, face struggles, and experience temptation. The question before you is not whether God’s power will be present at those times but whether or not you will rely on it!
When my wife and I moved to a smaller home, we had to get rid of many things. It was hard to sort through what to keep and what to throw or give away. Some items were sentimental to us, like the toys our boys played with when they were small. Others still seemed to have value, like the books in my library. But we no longer had room for it all. When the apostle Paul turned to Jesus Christ, he went through a kind of house cleaning as well. But in this case, he had to let go of the things he used to count on for righteousness before he believed in Jesus Christ. Paul understood that what he believed before was false righteousness. Indeed, Paul now saw these things as “garbage,” a word used to describe things that are rotten and decaying. In Paul’s day it was the word for dung. He could not have chosen an uglier image to describe the righteousness he had before his life was changed by Christ. What did Paul get in exchange? According to verses 8–9, he gained Christ. He also found a righteousness that was not something he had earned by keeping the law but one that came through faith in Christ. If you want to be righteous in God’s eyes, you need to let go. You must give up your own claims to be good enough and recognize that God will only accept what Jesus Christ has done on your behalf. This righteousness is not earned but is given to you as a gift. We are “found in Him,” not having a righteousness of our own (v. 9). >> It’s time to do some house cleaning! What do you need to let go of to turn to Christ? Any righteousness you can claim as your own is worse than garbage. Paul calls it dung. Let it go and choose Christ instead.
English Reformer Miles Coverdale described the essence of Christ’s humility in this couplet: “For our sake made he himself small/That reigns Lord and king over all.” The order is important. Jesus already existed as “Lord and king over all” when He was born in Bethlehem. He was God before He became human. Paul characterizes this act, which the theologians call the “incarnation,” by saying that Jesus “made himself nothing” (v. 7). Although the Greek term literally means to “empty,” it is clear that what was really involved was an addition. Jesus took to Himself a human nature, that He did not previously have, when He was “made in human likeness” (v. 7). The incarnation is as important to the faith as Christ’s death and resurrection, because, without the incarnation, neither the crucifixion nor the resurrection would be possible. When Paul says that Jesus was “found in appearance as a man” (v. 8), he did not mean that Jesus only looked human. Jesus became truly human at the incarnation, but He is also more than human. Jesus is God in the flesh. The reason for the incarnation is spelled out in verse 8: God’s one and only Son took upon a human nature so that He could be “obedient to death—even death on a cross!” By becoming human, Jesus, who is equal with the Father, became a servant to God and to us. Elsewhere Paul says that God sent Jesus “in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering” (Rom. 8:3). The emphasis on likeness does not point to mere similarity but to sameness. God sent His Son in the flesh so that He could be a sin offering. Your salvation depends upon Christ’s death, which in turn depends upon the incarnation. >> If you believe that Jesus is God come in the flesh, then you must also believe that He died for your sins. To accept one and reject the other is to reject the whole gospel.
Sometimes when I am sitting quietly, my wife will smile and tell me what I am thinking. She is almost always right. We truly know someone when we understand the way they think. In today’s passage, Paul opens a window into the mind of Christ and reveals how He thought of Himself. These verses begin one of the most important passages of Scripture for understanding the nature of Christ. We will be looking at it in detail over the next three days. Paul’s starting point is a little surprising, given the application of verse 5, which says that we should have the same mindset as Christ. We are not equal with God, so how can we be of the same mind? But Paul’s point is simple. Although Jesus did not cease being divine when He took upon Himself human nature, He did lay aside the advantages that came with divine status. The Greek text says that He did not view equality with God as something to be grasped or exploited. In other words, Jesus did not cling to His rights and prerogatives, even though He was divine as well as human. Those who share this way of thinking do not grasp power or prestige. They do not demand that others recognize their position but are more interested in serving. One cannot help seeing a shocking difference between Christ’s mindset and the mentality of leaders who exploit the churches they are supposed to serve. They feel that the church owes them special privileges and extra benefits. They enrich themselves at the expense of the church. They are arrogant and selfish, treating the church’s resources as if they were their personal property and its members their own servants. >> Leaders are not the only ones who need to have the mindset of Christ. Is there something you need to release your grip on today? Do you demand that people notice you and give you your rights? Are you hanging on too tightly?
William Carey, pioneer missionary to India, said: “Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God.” The key phrase in the second half of this saying is “for God.” Sometimes our spiritual ambitions are more focused on ourselves than on God. In the previous chapter (see Feb. 4), Paul warned that some who preached Christ were motivated by envy and rivalry (Phil. 1:15). In today’s passage, Paul describes a better way: we are to value others above ourselves (2:3). This does not mean that we should think poorly of ourselves. Instead, we are to show others the kind of loving concern that Jesus Christ demonstrated toward us. In verse 1, Paul lists four motivations for doing this: 1) encouragement that springs from our union with Christ, 2) the comfort of His love, 3) our mutual experience of the Spirit, and 4) affection and sympathy for one another that is an extension of Christ’s love for us. Paul’s emphasis on our shared experience of Christ indicates that his focus is on relationships in the church. The command to value others above ourselves certainly has implications for our treatment of those outside the church. But if we cannot show love to other believers, it is unlikely that we will do so for unbelievers. Paul calls this humility: the discipline of cultivating an interest in others (v. 4). The daily practice of humility begins with small things. Ask others to share about themselves. Invite them to go first. Let them have the last word. Pray for others as well as for yourself. >> “Do not imagine that if you meet a really humble man, he will be what most people call ‘humble’ nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody,” C. S. Lewis observed. “Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him.”
When Martha’s pastor visited her in the hospital, she assured him that she wasn’t afraid. “I’m ready to die,” she said. “I’m glad to hear that,” he replied. “But what if you recover? Are you also ready to live?” Today’s passage begins with a command that may seem like an impossibility. How do we live “in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (v. 27)? Paul’s challenge is simply a call to live like those who have believed the promises of the gospel. The gospel promises forgiveness and power. Those who conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel live as if those promises are true. They have the hope of eternal life and rely upon the power of the Holy Spirit to obey God. They are not trying to live up to the gospel’s promises but seek to live them out in real life. For the Philippians, this meant standing together for Christ and standing firm in the face of opposition. To stand together for the gospel, believers must work together as one. Churches often compete with one another like merchants who are trying to sell the same product. But Paul envisions a very different approach. For such unity to exist, there must be agreement about the message. We are not looking for customers. We are “striving together as one for the faith of the gospel” (v. 27). When it is motivated by the hope of the gospel, this kind of unity is proof of the validity of the church’s message. It is also a sign of God’s ultimate victory over those who would seek to destroy the church. The ability to stand despite opposition is a gift from God. It is also foreshadowing of the final judgment when God will destroy those who oppose Him. >> Have you been ridiculed and even punished for your faith in Jesus Christ? Ask God to keep your faith strong and grant you the strength to continue to live for Christ.
Recently a friend posted on her blog that she had been diagnosed with incurable cancer. “Yes, I might have incurable cancer,” she wrote. “But I also have incurable life—I had life before cancer, I have life now with incurable cancer, and I will have life after cancer.” Her words reflect courage. But more than that, they reflect her faith. She shares the conviction of the apostle Paul that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (v. 21). Despite the challenges posed by his circumstances, Paul was confident that the outcome would be “deliverance” (v. 19). This is the word for salvation. Commentator H. C. G. Moule explains: “This word includes in its widest reference the whole process of saving mercy, from the giving of the savior to the final glory of the saved.” Because of this, death is no threat. God would be glorified by Paul’s death as much as in life. For the apostle, both prospects were appealing. To die was to be with Christ, and to live meant that he could continue to serve Christ. Between the two, the apostle felt that to depart and be with Christ was “better by far” (v. 23). Although the apostle felt torn between the two, this choice was not Paul’s to make. Need for his ministry suggested that he would continue to live and serve God (vv. 23–24). Our future is linked to God’s larger purposes. He is working out all things for the good of those who belong to Christ. At the same time, He is also working out the details of His plan for the church. We do not always understand God’s timing in these matters. Some seem to die too soon, while others wonder why they remain. >> Even though the Philippians supported Paul through their prayers (v. 19), God alone can save. Yet, our prayers do make a difference. We do not have to understand how these work together to pray.
Some churches approach ministry like they are planning a marketing campaign. They talk about platforms and branding. They use social media to create a positive public image. The more people who know about the church, the better their image and the more successful they think they will be. Maybe that’s why God’s strategy with the apostle Paul seems incomprehensible to many of us today. It also puzzled the Philippians. What was God thinking? What possible good could come from Paul’s imprisonment? In verse 12, the apostle points out that the effect of confinement was the opposite of what one would expect. Instead of hurting Paul’s reputation and hindering the spread of the gospel, its message was heard “throughout the whole palace guard.” This comment suggests that Paul was imprisoned in Rome. Paul’s circumstances also had an unexpected effect on others who proclaimed the gospel. Instead of making them afraid, it made them bold. They became even more confident to speak out. Perhaps the most shocking thing Paul says here is his observation that some preached with selfish motives. Like some churches today, they approached ministry as if it were a competition. But still, Paul could rejoice that “Christ is preached.” This fact suggests that, although they acted with impure motives, they were not preaching false doctrine (v. 18). The gospel is still the gospel, even when those who proclaim it act in an unworthy manner. In saying this, Paul was not dismissing the importance of character. Instead, he expresses his confidence in God’s ability to accomplish His purpose despite the failings of those who represent Him. Paul may have been in chains, but the gospel could never be bound. >> Does it feel like your circumstances stand in the way of your usefulness to God? Remember that He is the God of your circumstances as much as He is the God of your salvation. God has placed you there to glorify Christ. Leave the results to Him.
Many parents love to track the growth of their children by marking their height each year on their birthday. But is it possible to measure our growth as believers? More importantly, how does spiritual growth take place? In today’s passage, Paul prays for the spiritual growth of the Philippian believers. We may be surprised to note that the growth he envisions does not begin with effort but with love. Paul does not say whether this is love for God or love for others. But there is no real reason to differentiate between the two. Love for others springs from our love for God (1 John 4:20). We might also have expected Paul to pray that their love would increase so that they have more and more of it. Instead, he asks that their love would grow in knowledge and depth of insight (Phil. 1:9). The phrase “depth of insight” could also be translated as “discernment.” Knowledge and discernment are related. To discern is to draw a distinction or make a judgment. It involves the application of knowledge to the circumstances of life. It is possible to possess knowledge without love. We may also love without discernment. Knowledge without love leads to cold rationalism and a lack of compassion. Love that is not informed by discernment leads to sentimentalism and self-indulgence. When Paul describes the result of adding knowledge and discernment to love in verse 10, he speaks of its cumulative effect. As we love like this, we will be “pure and blameless for the day of Christ.” Although we play a part in expressing godly love, Paul describes this growth in passive terms. It is the fruit “that comes through Jesus Christ” (v. 11). Even our practice of righteousness is a work of grace. This is why spiritual growth begins with prayer. >> Do you want to grow spiritually? Ask God for the grace to grow. Is there someone you know who needs to mature in their walk with Christ? Pray for them by name.
Minutes after my wife Jane and I pulled into the driveway of the church parsonage in our rental van loaded with all our worldly possessions, church members appeared to help unload it. I remember seeing their faces for the first time. They were all strangers to me. But nine years later, when I left the church to join the faculty of Moody Bible Institute, I knew them all, and we said goodbye to each other with tears. Sharing life together builds strong feelings. Paul and the Philippians had more than life experience in common. In verse 7, the apostle says they “share in God’s grace” in his chains and in his defense and proclamation of the gospel. Although not physically in prison with him, they were as committed to Paul as he was to them. But the strong affection that Paul describes in today’s passage also springs from an additional source. Ultimately, it was an extension of Christ’s love. The ability to love one another in the church is a work of grace. The longing Paul felt for the Philippians originated with God. The affection he felt for them was “the affection of Christ Jesus” (v. 8). Getting along with one another in the church takes more than willpower. It does require effort. Ephesians 4:3 tells us: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” But in the end, the mutual affection that Paul describes is a work of God. Note that the bond between Paul and the Philippians was not due to shared interests. It was not because they had the same hobbies or liked the same music. They were knit together by a shared gospel. Christ knits together those who would otherwise have nothing in common. >> It takes Jesus to make a loving and unified church. Are you having trouble loving others? Ask Jesus to remind you of what binds you together and to show you a practical way to extend His love to others.
Sometimes life makes it hard to pray. Maybe you feel tired or discouraged. Or perhaps the problems seem overwhelming. Paul opens the letter we will study this month on a joyful note saying that he thanks God every time he thinks of the Philippian believers and prays for them with joy (vv. 3–4). One fact that makes this impressive is that Paul wrote this letter and prayed for them while he was in prison and awaiting trial! The letter is addressed to the believers in Philippi, a prestigious city in the Macedonian region (Acts 16:12). It was the first city where Paul preached after receiving a vision of “a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us’” (Acts 16:9). The first convert was a successful businesswoman named Lydia, who came from Thyatira. She heard Paul preach and invited the apostle and his companions to stay in her home (Acts 16:13–15). Given the difficulty of Paul’s current circumstances, we might be surprised to notice how often he speaks of joy and rejoicing in this letter (underline each mention as you find them!). But the joy Paul mentions is not some giddy feeling stirred up by positive life circumstances— instead, biblical joy springs from our conviction about God and our confidence in His promises. The thought of the Philippian believers brought Paul joy because he knew they were partners in the gospel. The word translated as “partnership” in verse 5 means “fellowship” or “sharing.” The Philippians shared in the gospel in two important ways. First, they embraced its truth by faith. Second, they supported Paul’s ministry by their generosity (Phil. 4:10–19). >> The Philippians’ faith in the gospel and their support of Paul’s ministry were a work of God. Like Paul, we can be confident that God will complete the work He began in us. As we begin this study, ask God to fill you with His joy and to help you stay devoted to His work.
“My dad pointed out to me something that Charles Spurgeon pointed out to him,” wrote pastor Dane Ortlund in Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers. “In the four Gospel accounts given to us in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John— eighty-nine chapters of biblical text— there’s only one place where Jesus tells us about his own heart.” That place is described in today’s Scripture verse: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:29). As we’ve studied godly learning together this month, we’ve seen that learning can be hard work. It can involve suffering. It definitely requires uncomfortable change and growth. Are we ready to put on Christ’s yoke and learn from Him? We may assume that we have to grit our teeth and begin. But here Jesus says we will find “rest” for our souls? Yes, learning from Jesus is restful because our Teacher is humble and gentle. His invitation is “pure joy” (James 1:2). Jesus praised the Father for revealing the truth of His redemptive plan to His followers, rather than to the Pharisees and other religious leaders (vv. 25–26). This reminds us that God often overturns the knowledge of the “wise and learned” for His own purposes. In the same way the Father revealed the Son to those He chose, the Son also reveals the Father to whomever He chooses (v. 27). The ultimate content of real learning always centers around God Himself. This leads into the call to come and learn from Jesus (vv. 28–30). Yes, we’ll need to pick up our crosses and carry them in the footsteps of our Master (Luke 9:23–26). But on the journey, we’ll learn that His yoke is easy and His burden is light (see also Jer. 6:16; 1 John 5:3). >> Reflect on this month’s study (or reread your notes if you’ve been taking them). What are your top three takeaways or insights? How will you pursue learning from God in the year ahead?
“Stop praying for stuff and start praying for God,” wrote pastor David Platt. “The primary point of prayer is not to get something—it’s to know Someone. When you go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father who is in secret, there is a reward awaiting you: intimacy with your heavenly Father through prayer.” Learning to pray God-centered prayers is part of learning to worship Him. For purposes of our study, the focus in today’s reading is verse 15: “Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, LORD.” The point is that worship must be learned. A more literal translation renders the first phrase, “Happy are the people who know the joyful shout,” that is, who know what the shout means (it’s a call to worship) and how to join in. One implication is that learning about God is the same as learning to worship Him. In other words, it’s impossible to learn about Him only with our heads. As we learn with our heads, we’ll be compelled to praise with our hearts! If we’re not worshiping, then we’re not really learning either. To do one is to do the other—and when we do, we’ll be “blessed” or “happy.” So, what do we learn in this psalm about God? He’s loving and faithful (vv. 1–2). He makes and keeps covenants (vv. 3–4). He’s awesome, incomparable, far above all other heavenly beings (vv. 5–8). He’s sovereign and all-powerful (vv. 9–13). He’s righteous and just (vv. 14–18). These are not only truths to affirm, but reasons to celebrate (v. 16). Worshipers learn and rejoice and walk in God’s presence, all at the same time (see Ps. 119:7). >> Since today is Sunday, we hope you’ll be attending a church service. As you join in worshiping there and throughout the day, thank God for who He is and for all that He is teaching you.
For many years I had a love-hate relationship with today’s Scripture passage. The “love” part related to testing, perseverance, maturity, and wisdom. That made sense to me. The “hate” part related to the first line, “Consider it pure joy” (v. 2). “Seriously?” I thought. “That’s too much to ask!” Nonetheless, God’s Word says what it says. How, then, does the spiritual process of learning and growing unfold in these verses? While the word “learn” isn’t used here, the process described is one of growing and maturing toward godliness (vv. 2–4). Our faith is tested when we face various trials and tribulations. If we stand firm in faith, we develop perseverance, which in turn will eventually bring us to maturity and finally to Christlike completeness or perfection (Matt. 5:48). This process isn’t inevitable. We must make right and wise choices. If our faith is weak or we sidestep opportunities for growth, the learning process is stalled. If we consider it hardship, we’ll merely try to escape the process. Only by considering it “pure joy” can we embrace trials and tribulations as God-given and God- directed lessons for our good. In doing so, we follow the example of Christ Himself: “He learned obedience from what he suffered” (Heb. 5:8). Learning in this sense is experiential, that is, it can happen only in action. We can make wise choices, learn God’s lessons for us, and grow in our faith only with His help (James 1:5–8). The Lord stands ready to generously provide wisdom, but we need to ask in faith—standing on our Rock, not blown about by the wind (see January 9). The evidence of our learning will be in the results. If we’re standing firm and persevering, our growing and maturing will be clearly seen, not to our credit but to God’s glory. >> Did you start a learning journal this month? If not, it’s never too late! A journal is a great way to keep a personal record of what God is teaching you about life, His Word, and Himself.
Caravaggio’s masterpiece The Calling of Saint Matthew pictures Matthew as an older man engaged in counting money from his tax collecting. He has just realized Jesus is summoning him to become His disciple, and he’s pointing to himself as if to say, “Who, me?” His face, upon which the painting is focused, reflects surprise and spiritual awakening. We don’t know how Matthew himself would have painted this scene, but we do know the story in his own words direct from his Gospel. He presented this episode as a kind of template for what it means to cast off one’s old life, separate from the world, and instead follow Jesus. Having been in Capernaum for some time, Jesus and Matthew most likely knew each other already. Jesus’ call was probably the climax of a building relationship (v. 9). Tax collectors were viewed by their fellow Jews as Roman collaborators or even traitors. They were also corrupt. For Jesus to call a tax collector to join His chosen disciples shattered a number of social taboos. Matthew’s immediate instinct was to share the good news with his friends, who were of course other tax collectors (v. 10). This no doubt raised the ire of the Pharisees who condemned Jesus for sharing meal fellowship with these social outcasts, as if they were close friends (v. 11). Jesus’ classic response points out that just as it is the sick who need a doctor, it is sinners who need a Savior (vv. 12–13). This is the first step in understanding the gospel— to recognize oneself as a spiritually dead sinner. Jesus also boldly told the Pharisees to go and learn Hosea 6:6: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” They needed to forsake their pride and “expertise” and learn God’s loving heart, as seen throughout the Old Testament and here in Jesus’ choosing of Matthew. >> Do you know any sinners in need of a Savior? If yes, pray for an opportunity to share the gospel with them this week. If not, pray for a new friend!
Jesus told a parable about a man going on a journey. He gave his servant five bags of gold and the man set to work, gaining five more for a total of ten. Another servant was given two bags of gold and increased his total to four. But the third did nothing but hide his bag. When the man returned, it was taken away and given to the first servant (Matt. 25:14–30). Jesus used this story to teach a kingdom principle: Wisdom, righteousness, and faithfulness multiply their “return on investment,” while foolishness and wickedness leave one spiritually bankrupt (Matt. 25:29). This means wisdom can grow! A wise person is not “starting from square one” in every new life situation. Rather, learning becomes a habit that accumulates more and more wisdom (Prov. 9:9). In today’s reading, wisdom is pictured as a welcoming host (vv. 1–2). She prepares her house, fixes the meal, and sets the table. The house’s “seven pillars” are a traditional symbol of perfection. Wisdom invites “all who are simple,” in the sense of “simpleton,” a naive or foolish person, “those who have no sense” (vv. 3–6). It should encourage us that wisdom invites not only “gifted” or “deserving” learners, but us ordinary fools. We need not stay that way. Growth and transformation are possible. Just say “yes” and come to the table! How and why should we respond to this invitation? Most will respond in line with their previous choices (vv. 7–8). If we fear the Lord and seek righteousness, we will answer wisdom’s call (v. 9–10). The lesson in today’s reading stands in stark contrast with yesterday’s Scripture: Neglect or reject wisdom, and it becomes unavailable. When we pursue learning and godly wisdom, the benefits multiply (vv. 11–12). >> The New Testament version of wisdom’s invitation is straightforward and guides us on how to increase our share: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God...and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).
One of our bicycles recently needed repairs. We checked the extended warranty, fully expecting that (as in the past) it had just expired. To our surprise and delight, the warranty still had two weeks to go, and we were able to get the bike fixed at no extra cost! Warranties, coupons, and special offers typically come with expiration dates. You may not know that the same is true for biblical wisdom. If we fail to pursue learning and wisdom as we should (see yesterday’s reading), eventually it becomes unavailable. Or in terms of the picture in today’s reading: If we repeatedly reject wisdom’s invitation, we won’t be able to find it when we need it (v. 28). A firm rebuke for wisdom’s unanswered invitation is found in verses 20–23. Instead of embracing learning, the “simple” have embraced foolishness and ignorance. They need to repent of this sin but haven’t done so (v. 23). Their refusal is detailed in verses 24–27. To reject wisdom’s invitation is instead to invite calamity. Foolish people will reap what they sow—”they will eat the fruit of their ways” (v. 31)—and when that happens, wisdom will laugh. This isn’t very “nice,” but it’s biblically fair. They had multiple opportunities but disregarded and disdained them. The consequences are further explained in verses 28–33. The foolish will ultimately realize their need for wisdom and change their mind, but it will be too late. They failed to choose the fear of the Lord—a fundamental mistake. They could have lived in peace and safety (v. 33), but now, “The complacency of fools will destroy them” (v. 32). This is a scary warning. God is so merciful and gracious that sometimes we presume on Him. The lesson for us is obvious: Choose the fear of the Lord and the pursuit of wisdom before it’s too late! >> If you’re looking for more on this topic, read about biblical wisdom in Proverbs 8. This is a good chapter to reflect on and pray over as we pursue God’s wisdom.
In his 1644 essay “Of Education,” English poet John Milton explained the purpose of learning from a Christian perspective: “The end, then, of learning is to repair the ruins of our first parents by regaining to know God aright, and out of that knowledge to love him, to imitate him, to be like him, as we may the nearest, by possessing our souls of true virtue, which, being united to the heavenly grace of faith, makes up the highest perfection.” Godliness is both our motivation and our purpose for learning and wisdom. That being so, we shouldn’t pursue it as a tiresome duty, but as a vital desire—in the same sense as we’re to “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matt. 5:6). But sins such as pride and laziness get in the way. Where, then, to begin? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Prov. 1:7). Why? Because God is the Creator. He made it all! That makes Him the source of all knowledge. A right relationship with Him is therefore the key to all learning, just as godliness is the motivation and true purpose for all learning. That’s rather different from merely human conceptions of learning and education, which tend to focus on a job, social status, and financial security. What else do we understand about learning in these initial verses of Proverbs? We see that learning and wisdom are the foundation for other virtues, including prudence, righteousness, justice, and discretion (vv. 3–4). We also see that learning is ongoing—the wise are always looking to listen and add to their wisdom (v. 5). They’ve never “arrived.” In this way, wisdom distinguishes itself from foolishness and immaturity (v. 7). Finally, our first source of learning is our parents, and they should thus be honored (vv. 8–9). >> We are commanded to love God with all our heart and our mind (Luke 10:27). Of course, godly learning involves more than just one’s mind, but certainly not less. Learning is loving plus obedience!
Our family had just arrived at the Kansas City Zoo. We gathered inside the gate...then had that sinking feeling almost all parents experience at some point: One of our children was missing. Perhaps he’d rushed ahead to see his beloved giraffes. We prayed and spread out to look for him. Thankfully, he was found just a few minutes later. For the rest of the day, we never let him out of our sight! My wife and I only worried for a few minutes. By contrast, Mary and Joseph spent three days looking for the twelve-year-old Jesus! This was His first recorded Passover. Luke may have heard this anecdote from Mary herself, given his knowledge of her thoughts and feelings at the time (v. 51). When Mary and Joseph found Jesus, He was discussing Scripture with the rabbis in the Temple (vv. 46–47)! It’s not really surprising that the Author of Scripture would amaze people with “his understanding and his answers,” but what about His questions? If you’re like me, you would love to know what they were! The way Jesus learned as a child was more complicated than it is for us. He never stopped being fully God, so He was all-knowing, as seen in His ability to instruct the scholars in the Temple. At the same time, Jesus was fully human, so He was born as a baby and developed as a child, growing or increasing “in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (v. 52). Interestingly, verse 52 alludes to 1 Samuel 2:26. As a boy, Samuel was raised in the tabernacle. It was literally his home. Similarly, the Temple was “my Father’s house” for Jesus in a unique way (v. 49). He thought His parents should have known He would be there. This episode shows that even as a child He understood that God was His Father. >> Whether we’re children or adults, learning and growing should still be spiritual priorities. In what areas of life are you continuing to grow? How might God use that for His glory?
Mental health is an important dimension of our well-being that we sometimes don’t like to address. In any given year, an estimated 26 percent of adults have a diagnosable mental illness. During our lifetime, at least half of us will have a mental health issue, but less than one-third of adults who need help will get it. The writer of Psalm 73 was going through a time of skewed spiritual perceptions and dejected feelings. The introduction affirms a foundational truth: God is good (v. 1). But then there’s a long emotional descent in verses 2–14. To Asaph, God no longer seemed good or loving or just. Instead, it looked like the wicked were doing just fine. Asaph knew the truth, but he wasn’t “feeling it” in his everyday life. He was discouraged and depressed. His faith was weakened (v. 2). It seemed like his quest for purity or righteousness was a waste of time (v. 13). These thoughts “afflicted” him day after day (v. 14). But notice a turn that comes in verses 15–17. Asaph “entered the sanctuary of God” and joined in congregational worship (v. 17). Worship kept his negative thoughts from becoming words and harming others. It corrected his distorted perceptions. Alone, his feelings could be mistaken and lead him astray, but in community his faith was strengthened. The resulting ascent follows in verses 18–28. The truth is that whatever it looks or feels like now, the wicked will indeed be judged by the Lord. God has not left Asaph alone but holds his discouraged child by the hand (v. 23). He is faithful even or especially when we lose heart or are tempted to give up (v. 26). The bottom line: “It is good to be near God,” worshiping together with fellow believers (v. 28). >> There are times when we’ve all felt like Asaph. Why does it sometimes seem that evil is winning? At those times, you may ask, “Where is God?” If you feel that way now, spend extra time meditating on verses 23–26.
In 1877, American abolitionist (and escaped slave) Frederick Douglass met his former master, Thomas Auld. Douglass had previously written strong condemnations of Auld’s cruel treatment of his slaves. But when they met near the end of Auld’s life, Douglass forgave him. They shed tears, were reconciled, and parted as friends, according to Douglass’s autobiography. Douglass had become a Christian as a teenager, and clearly, he’d learned the power of God’s forgiveness in the face of suffering and injustice. As we see in today’s reading, Joseph, too, had learned to forgive despite all he’d unjustly suffered (vv. 19–21). In fact, we can say he’d learned to forgive because of all he’d unjustly suffered. That did not make what his brothers and the Potiphar couple had done any less wrong, but it helped Joseph to know that God had been in sovereign control with a greater purpose the entire time. We live in a fallen world that’s full of sin and suffering, but these things are not outside God’s rule. He’s never been taken by surprise and never has to resort to a plan B. This should strengthen our faith and give us hope. At the same time, it should not make us complacent or fatalistic. Sin, suffering, and injustice should deeply grieve us. We should practice and stand for biblical justice whenever there’s an opportunity. Even more, we can rejoice when suffering injustice for the sake of Christ—as Paul and Silas did, singing hymns in their Philippian prison cell (Acts 16:25). What can we learn from Joseph? In the words of the psalmist: “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Ps. 119:71). Or in Paul’s terms: “In all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Rom. 8:28). >> If you struggle with questions about suffering or injustice, we recommend an excellent book by two Moody professors: Between Pain and Grace: A Biblical Theology of Suffering, by Gerald Peterman and Andrew Schmutzer.
Sometimes no matter how great the teacher, we fail to learn the lesson. In today’s reading, God directed the prophet Jeremiah to use a family called the Rekabites as an object lesson (v. 13). Who were the Rekabites? During the reign of King Jehu, the Rekabites remained faithful to the Lord, opposed the worship of Baal, and supported Jehu’s reforms (2 Kings 10:15–23). Today’s reading in Jeremiah chapter 35 takes place more than 200 years later. Although the Rekabites had been forced to take refuge in Jerusalem due to the invading Babylonians, the descendants of the original group had remained loyal to their teachings (Jer. 35:6–11). When the prophet Jeremiah invited them to drink wine, he was asking them to violate a longstanding tradition (vv. 1–5). They refused. The prophet used their example of faithfulness to condemn the people of Judah (vv. 12-16). If this minority group could consistently obey a human command or tradition, why couldn’t the people of Judah keep God’s Law and repent of their idolatry? God had spoken to them time and time again through the prophets, calling them back to covenant obedience. The contrast was crystal clear: “[The Rekabites] have carried out the command their forefather gave them, but these people have not obeyed me” (v. 16). Failure to learn brings God’s judgment. It is true that God is patient and merciful. He gives many opportunities and “second chances.” But in the end, He will not be mocked. Failure to learn as a way of life is foolish and sinful. If people think God will never act, they’re tragically mistaken (2 Peter 3:3–7). Sin brings consequences and God’s judgment— in this case, conquest and exile by the Babylonians (Jer. 35:17). >> If only the people of Judah had heeded God’s words. If only. Then they would have received His blessings of peace and well being (Isa. 48:17–19). Don’t let “if only” be your story!
When we think of Jesus’ earthly ministry, we tend to think of headline moments such as miracles and confrontations with the Pharisees. But mostly He invested in a close circle of followers, especially the twelve disciples. As A. B. Bruce wrote in The Training of the Twelve: They “entered on a regular apprenticeship for the great office of apostleship, in the course of which they were to learn, in the privacy of an intimate daily fellowship with their Master, what they should be, do, believe, and teach, as His witnesses and ambassadors to the world.” In this sense, the four Gospels are in large measure accounts of Jesus’ life-on-life training program. Today’s reading is just one episode among many. The occasion here was a shameful quarrel about which of them was the greatest. Jesus taught them that in His kingdom “greatness” consists not of power or position but of service. Jesus Himself was among them as a servant (v. 27). The selfish ways in which authority is used on earth contrast entirely with the way authority works in God’s kingdom (vv. 25–26). One day, they would sit on thrones, “judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (v. 30), but God is the sovereign King over all (v. 29). God had plans for these men to be leaders of the early church. Jesus had personally chosen them as His special students. He cared for their spiritual growth and well being (vv. 31–32). Whether Jesus taught in an expository manner as in this case, or through parables or miracles or object lessons (such as washing their feet), He often reversed the expectations of both the crowds and His close followers. It’s uncertain how much the Twelve understood at the time, but later the Spirit reminded them of Jesus’ words and illuminated their meaning to them. >> How can you apply this lesson today? Can you turn the tables and serve someone who ordinarily cares for your needs? Give all the glory to Jesus who set the example for us to follow.
What can we learn from our disagreements? In today’s passage, we’re given a front row seat to a conflict between Peter and Paul. But while their disagreement was great, so was the learning that resulted! Earlier, Paul had taught Peter and other leaders about God’s acceptance of the Gentiles (Gal. 2:1–4). This wasn’t the first time Peter had learned this lesson. In Acts 10, he’d seen a vision of a sheet holding unclean animals. A voice told him, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” (Acts 10:15). As a result, Peter had gone to the house of Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and preached the gospel. Peter concluded: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism” (Acts 10:34). So, he really had no excuse for his actions in today’s reading. What happened? Peter (also called Cephas) had been sharing a meal with Gentiles, but when some church representatives arrived, he stopped. Why? He feared their criticism. Even worse, his self-protecting choice led other Jews to do the same (Gal. 2:12–13). When Paul saw “they were not acting in line with the truth of the gospel” (v. 14), he publicly confronted Peter. The gospel was too important to let such behavior slide. What did Peter learn? He was reminded (again) that salvation was for both Jews and Gentiles. “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). But that wasn’t all! He learned not to act based on others’ opinion and to accept correction with humility. He learned about the purity of the gospel (vv. 15–16) and that the gospel is an everyday way of life (vv. 19–21). >> We may struggle with how to disagree. Either we “shout” on social media, or we “make nice” and ignore important issues. What can we learn about handling disagreements (especially with fellow believers) from today’s passage?
Christians often define success in terms of numbers: the number of people converted, churches planted, church members in attendance, money raised, etc. Would you answer a ministry posting like this one? “Wanted: Person to speak for the Lord. All content provided. Failure guaranteed—no one will respond.” The job, of course, was “Old Testament prophet.” God sent Ezekiel to the Israelite exiles (v. 33). One would think that having already experienced God’s judgment—the Babylonian conquest—they would have been eager to listen and obey. Instead, they “listened” as if the prophet were an entertaining singer (v. 32), then went off and did as they pleased. Their mouths said the right words, but their hearts were in the wrong place (v. 31). They completely failed to put God’s words into practice (see days 9 and 10). Why did they fail to do so? They didn’t take sin seriously. The “detestable things” they had done were the reason for Jerusalem’s fall and their exile (vv. 27–29). We can infer that they didn’t take sin seriously because they didn’t take the Law seriously. Moses had taught repeatedly that keeping God’s covenant would lead to blessing, and breaking it would lead to judgment (see, for example, Lev. 26:14–45). Because they didn’t take sin or the Law seriously, they ignored God’s prophet as well. It seems they were presuming on God’s mercy and hoped their punishment would be over soon. As a result, they hypocritically “listened” to Ezekiel while focusing not on sin and repentance but on “unjust gain” or on their own advantage (v. 31). Though God knew the people wouldn’t respond rightly, Ezekiel’s ministry wasn’t a failure. God, whose standards are different from ours, counted him a success due to his faithful obedience. >> How much of your self-worth do you get from your earthly success? It’s difficult for us to escape this emphasis in our culture. Remember, God sees things differently!
“Born again” may be a familiar phrase to us (v. 3), but in its original context it was breathtaking, even shocking. How could a grown man be born a second time? After all, a newborn baby is completely needy and helpless—the exact opposite of a respected rabbi like Nicodemus. When Jesus told him the secret to seeing the kingdom of God was being “born again” or “born from above,” Nicodemus couldn’t wrap his head around the concept (v. 4). Jesus used this picture to break through the rabbi’s pride and traditionalism. His heart wasn’t hard, but the “knowledge” he possessed was mistaken and needed to be deconstructed (vv. 10–12). To enter the kingdom of God, Nicodemus needed to start over. In fact, he needed to be entirely spiritually reborn! Nicodemus learned who Jesus was and what He would do. Jesus was the Messiah, the divine Son of Man (v. 13). He also learned that the source of Jesus’ authority was God (v. 2). But Jesus wasn’t going to overthrow Rome or lead a revolution. Instead, He would be “lifted up” to save dying sinners (vv. 14–15). This reference to the Crucifixion was beyond Nicodemus’s understanding at that time—though not of John’s readers— so Jesus referenced an Old Testament story to help Nicodemus understand (Num. 21:4–9). No human being can learn this lesson on their own. Faith and understanding are the work of the Holy Spirit, and being “born again” is His work as well (John 3:5–8). From this passage, we don’t know Nicodemus’s immediate response, only that he listened attentively. We do know that later he spoke up against the Pharisees on Jesus behalf (John 7:45–52) and helped Joseph of Arimathea bury Jesus body (John 19:38–42). These actions hint that Nicodemus did come to saving faith in Christ! >> How about you? Do you believe Christ died for your sins? Have you trusted in Him for salvation? “Everyone who believes may have eternal life in him” (John 3:15).
The first job listed on David’s resume was as a shepherd guarding the family sheep (1 Sam. 17:34–35). He knew that it took a great deal of time, effort, and watchful care to raise a flock. In Psalm 23, David describes us as sheep and speaks of God as our loving and faithful Shepherd. So when the prophet Nathan came to David with a story involving sheep, he had the king’s full attention. Consider the situation: The king had committed adultery and murder. Everyone knew it. But David’s heart was hard. There was no sign he intended to repent. He was the king. Couldn’t he do whatever he liked? Who could hold him accountable? Anyone who spoke the truth to him was liable to get their head chopped off! This sorry status quo had to change. God acted for the honor of His name (2 Sam. 12:9, 14) and David’s own spiritual well-being. He sent his prophet with a simple but powerful story. When the heart or will are closed due to sin, sometimes truth can reach a person via the imagination. David was so engaged in the story that when Nathan turned it around on him, saying, “You are the man!”, it must have fallen like a thunderbolt (v. 7). Finally, his heart was broken (v. 13). What did David learn from this confrontation? Sin is serious! He confessed and God forgave, but there would still be grievous consequences from his sinful actions that would affect both him as an individual and the nation as a whole (vv. 11–14). He also learned about the loving heart of God. God didn’t give up on David. He could have just punished him and moved on. Instead, God pursued David through Nathan’s parable and brought him to repentance. Despite David’s sin, God’s name was ultimately glorified in this situation through both His love and His justice. >> Do you have sin to confess? Psalm 51 is David’s classic psalm of confession and repentance that flowed out of today’s episode. Add this Psalm to your reading and prayer time today.
It may not surprise you that Americans are rapidly exiting the Christian faith. For every individual who becomes a believer, four leave the church. One source claims that over the next 30 years, one million people per year will choose not to be affiliated with any kind of Christianity. Many are young people raised in Christian families who will “deconvert” later in life. Cain’s “deconversion” in today’s reading is tragically similar. Cain knew the Lord. He knew he should worship God. When his initial offering was rejected, God Himself alerted Cain about the consequences of his next decision. He needed to learn from his failure and accept God’s second chance rather than “doubling down” on sin. Unfortunately, Cain didn’t heed God’s admonition. God’s warning is an incredible example of His mercy (vv. 6–7). If Cain confessed and repented of what he’d done wrong with his first offering (we don’t know exactly what that was), and did “what is right,” God would accept it just as He had accepted Abel’s offering. But the sin of anger was “crouching” at the door. If only Cain could resist temptation and accept God’s loving rebuke, his close relationship with the Lord could continue. Tragically, Cain failed to learn his lesson. Instead, his anger remained hot and he committed premeditated murder. Even worse, when God questioned him, he responded, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (v. 9). This completed his failure to value life as God does and to love as God loves. Despite Cain’s lack of repentance, God mitigated his just punishment with a merciful mark that would preserve his life (v. 15). Cain chose self over God when he made his choices. His anger helped blind him to his perilous spiritual situation, and he rejected the truth in God’s rebuke. >> Cain didn’t learn his lesson, but we can! What sins are “crouching at your door,” trying to gain mastery over you? Make the wise choice, call for the Lord’s help, and win the battle!
One of the most moving scenes in the Old Testament is when Ezra the priest reads the Law to the returned exiles (Nehemiah 8). He stood on a high wooden platform so all could see and hear. The Levites circulated, instructing the people about the meaning of what they were hearing. Many in the crowd that day came under conviction of sin, but they were told not to grieve because this was a day of celebration. This landmark revival didn’t come out of nowhere. Ezra had prepared his entire life for this moment by being a faithful learner of Scripture (v. 10). He is just one example among many Bible characters whose lives were transformed through learning and studying God’s Word. This isn’t surprising, giving the preeminence of the Word in the pursuit of godly wisdom (see January 8). What had Ezra learned? “The Law of the LORD” (v. 10). How did he learn it? Through “study and observance.” The word “observance” is another way of saying obedience. Ezra was descended from Aaron, so his lineage went all the way back to the original giving of the Law at Sinai (vv. 1–5). Most of all, he “devoted himself” to this learning. Worldliness did not distract him! Why did Ezra learn? In order to teach (vv. 6, 10). He was “well versed in the Law of Moses,” qualified to instruct others in both understanding and obeying Scripture. He prepared himself to provide spiritual leadership for the returned exiles (vv. 8–9). God’s favor and grace were on him in this regard, and the Babylonian king granted all his requests. Ezra brought with him not only a large group of returnees but also a number of priests, Levites, and other spiritual leaders (v. 7). Their arduous journey was 900 miles long and took four months! >> Readiness is an important spiritual virtue. Are you ready? For example, are you ready “to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15)?
The earliest printed collection of William Shakespeare’s plays appeared in 1623. Now called a First Folio, there are only 235 copies still in existence, and only 56 are complete or intact. In 2020, an intact copy was sold for a record-breaking price of nearly $10 million—it was the most expensive work of literature ever sold at auction. Shakespeare may be valuable, but the worth of God’s Word is beyond calculating! When the day came that Israel would ask for a king, Moses taught that he should center his leadership around Scripture. To spur the king toward this goal, he set down an interesting requirement: He should write out his own copy of the Torah (v. 18). For the king to write out his own copy of the first five books of the Bible would require a great deal of time, labor, and attentiveness. It would be an effective way to become familiar with Scripture. He was then to read this personal copy throughout his life in order to “learn to revere the Lord his God and follow carefully all the words of this law” (v. 19). In other words, the future king was required to learn and obey God’s Word just as everyone else did (v. 20). There were other requirements as well: The king should be chosen by God, reminding everyone that the Lord is their true sovereign (v. 15). He should also be an Israelite, one of the covenant people. He should not acquire many horses, that is, he should not put his trust in military strength (v. 16). The same was true for wealth. He should also not acquire many wives— which at that time would have been part of building alliances—because they, being foreigners, would worship idols and could lead the king’s heart astray (v. 17). >> Consider putting today’s lesson into practice by memorizing or copying out a passage of Scripture. Handwriting Scripture into a blank notebook forces us to slow down and focus on what God is saying, allowing His Word to take root in our heart and mind.
The phrase Sola Scriptura means “Scripture alone.” This was one of the foundational principles of the Protestant Reformation. The Reformers believed that church tradition had been wrongly elevated to an equal position with God’s Word. Instead, the Bible should be given authority over the church. In the same way, Scripture was to be at the center of Israel’s national life. Following the Torah (or the Pentateuch, that is, the first five books of the Bible) was one of the distinguishing factors for the Israelites as God’s chosen people (Ex. 19:6). As a community and as individuals, they were to commit themselves to obeying God’s Law. They would learn to do it together, in community. One of the key traditions was the public reading aloud of the Law (Deut. 31:11), accompanied by expository teaching by the priests and Levites. An official copy of the Torah was also placed in the Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of God’s presence in Israel’s midst (v. 9). These public readings were to take place every seven years, during the Feast of Tabernacles, a harvest festival that took place in September or October and also commemorated the Exodus (v. 10). Debts were to be canceled that year—a practical measure to keep poverty under control (Deut. 15:7–11). Everyone was to be included—men, women, children, even resident foreigners (Deut. 31:12). The children’s participation was particularly important for passing on Scripture to the next generation (v. 13), to “learn to fear the LORD your God and follow carefully all the words of this law” (v. 12). The same holds true for us today. We should learn not just individually but also as a community—the church (Heb. 10:24–25)! Our worship must center around God’s Word. >> Is the Word of God front and center in your church? How can you help pass on the respect of God’s Word to the next generation? Maybe God is leading you to your church’s youth or children’s ministries.
Two immigrants to Australia found the world’s largest gold nugget! One day in 1869, one of them was digging around the roots of a tree when he discovered a gold “nugget” weighing an estimated 158 pounds. Called the “Welcome Stranger,” it was worth about $3 million in today’s money. Godly wisdom is more valuable than gold! In today’s passage, we see the nature and benefits of godly learning: It all begins with fear of the Lord, for He is the source of all learning and wisdom (Prov. 2:5–6). Next, we need to understand that the pursuit of wisdom is relational (Prov. 4:1–3). Here, the picture is of a father teaching his son. In any case, we’re not alone. We learn alongside others, including our family and fellow believers. Though putting knowledge into practice is essential, as we’ve seen, there’s no need to do it all at once. Learning is an individual and community process. Finally, we must appreciate that wisdom is exceedingly precious: “Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (v. 7). Like the treasure and the pearl in Jesus’ parables (Matt. 13:44–46), godly wisdom and learning are worth our complete commitment. One reason is all the benefits they provide, including life (Prov. 4:4), protection from straying off the path of righteousness (v. 6), and respect or honor (vv. 8–9). How should we respond to these truths? The imperative verbs in this passage indicate that we’re to “get” wisdom, “take hold” of it, and “keep” it. Our pursuit of godly wisdom must be tenacious and persevering. We’re to follow its lessons, as seen in “do not forget...or turn away” and “do not forsake.” Even more, there’s an emotional element to godly learning: We’re to “love,” “cherish,” and “embrace” it. >> Parents teaching their children have a responsibility that requires a great deal of faith. After all, we ourselves still have much to learn! Family devotions are one way that parents can help foster godly learning in their home.