Taste and See: Recent Episodes
Uplook Ministries
Welcome to Taste and See by Uplook Ministries. Discover the Bible two minutes at a time with author and teacher Jabe Nicholson.
Isn’t it remarkable? A man living first in a palace, then in a desert, has the same prayer requests you do!
The whole world awaits the restoration of the rightful Heir to the throne. Come, blessed King!
Here’s a good plan: “With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations” (Ps 89:1).
Imagine God providing a psalm for His people to sing when there isn’t even one ray of light!
What is the city listed on your heavenly Birth Certificate? It will be Zion, the City of God.
Normally we get down to business, but there are many times we have to look in the other direction.
Here’s a helpful adage: “Don’t forget in the darkness what you have learned in the light.” —Joe Bayley
Our tears, sweetened by heaven’s raindrops, cover the desert landscape with pools of comfort.
This song was to be accompanied “on an instrument of Gath.” Gath? Goliath’s hometown? Really!
A common house plant, Tradescantia Zebrina, is called “The Wandering Jew.” Do you wonder why?
Jehovah (Yahweh) is referred to as the El above all elohim (Ps 95:3). But isn’t there just one God?
Of course the Lord doesn’t sleep or wake up—but there are times when He seems to spring into action.
“They said, ‘Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?’” (Ps 78:19). Oh yes He can! And He did!
After these miracles, they “tested” God by making Him prove His faithfulness all over again.
“A generation that did not set its heart aright, and whose spirit was not faithful to God” (Ps 78:8).
The road of life can be tough, but don’t make it harder by exiting at Transgressor Way (Prov 13:15).
Life’s only real tragedies are the ones from which we learn nothing. Stumbling stones can be stepping stones.
Parable means “to throw alongside,” where we use concrete examples to illuminate abstract truth.
When your present is unstable and your future unclear, take a quick visit to the past and remember.
Get ready for it! When Jesus returns to earth, He will be armed and dangerous (see Rev 19:11-16).
Things may seem to be topsy-turvy now, but all will be right in the end. God will make sure of it.
Imagine that! Man’s mighty war machines rendered useless by the Lord’s little flakes of snow!
Astronomer Johannes Kepler spoke of discoveries “as though I had thought one of God’s thoughts.”
We use the words “I wonder” to mean, “I’d like to know.” But it should mean, “I’d like to worship.”
This has to be the ultimate interview, with God asking the questions. Is Job interested in running the universe?
A whirlwind is energy in motion. What may seem chaotic could, in fact, be God on the move for us.
Don’t try staring at the sun. But how will you see the Lord when He appears “as golden splendor”?
The Lord can speak His “Shalom!” to the storm. Or, as the storm rages, He can speak peace to us!
“The Lord has His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet” (Nah 1:3).
“In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them” (Isa 63:9).
How motivating it is to know that the God of heaven is slow to anger but eager to forgive!
Job isn’t suffering for sin, but he needs to watch out that his suffering doesn’t lead him to sin!
Nothing “is more hateful to God than idolatry, for idolatry is at bottom a libel on His character.” —A.W. Tozer
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise” (Prov 12:15).
Job has compared himself to other men and looks good as a result. But what happens when he meets God?
We weren’t expecting young Elihu, especially when he tells us he’s expecting divine revelation!
“What is happening to our youth? They disrespect their elders.…They riot in the streets…” —Socrates
Sow an act; you reap a habit. Sow a habit; you reap a character. Sow a character; you reap a destiny.
Hallmark, landmark, trademark, watermark, postmark—all are used to identify for a purpose.
“When the wickedness of the wicked grieves and humbles…Christians…you may expect a revival.” —Charles Finney
The one who responds before he has all the facts is both foolish and shameful. See Proverbs 18:13.
This lesson overlaps two chapters (Job 29:21–30:19). Was the change so abrupt that a division was inserted?
Everything can change in the blink of an eye. Except this: “I am the Lord, I do not change” (Mal 3:6).
Every one of God’s creatures should be valued, but if they want respect, that needs to be earned.
The danger of always dwelling on the past is that I might miss the possibilities of the present.
If divine wisdom arranged the path of water drops and lightning bolts, would it not include your path, too?
No pressure, no diamonds. No digging, no gold. No challenges, no wisdom. It’s as obvious as that.
The book of Job is included in that section of the Bible titled “Wisdom Literature” for a reason.
The difficult paths of believers and unbelievers may seem similar. But Job says there are big distinctions!
Hypocrisy in our day uses the best of Christian beliefs to disguise the worst of Christian behavior.
“The ways of creation are wrapt in mystery. We may only marvel, and bow our head.” —Albert Einstein
Yes, God helps those who help themselves—to the resources He’s made available to us in Christ.
“How Thou canst think so well of us, Yet be the God Thou art, Is darkness to my intellect, But sunshine to my heart.” —F.W. Faber
“…and, behind the dim unknown, Standeth God within the shadow, keeping watch above His own” —J.R.L.
“The tongue destroys a greater horde,” The Turk asserts, “than does the sword” (P.B. Strong).
“You are in for trouble,…if you think what you do in the dark can’t be seen” (Isa 29:15, CEV).
A man hated and slated to die—but now riding in kingly honor. This reminds me of Someone!
Let me confess: It takes great restraint not to put exclamation points after every sentence! See!
“The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands” (Prov 14:1).
You can’t find better stories anywhere. And wait till you see the story behind the story. It’s electric!
Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to confront it with God’s help and overcome it.
When history seems to hang by a thread, remember: “He hangs the earth on nothing” (Job 26:7).
Conceit is a strange disease in that, when a person has it, it makes everyone else sick!
The Chronicles finish the Hebrew Bible. Ezra’s first paragraph is put here so the book ends in hope!
“The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked” (Nah 1:3).
The last four kings reigned a total of 22 years, 6 months, and 10 days. Doom and gloom all the way!
“Don’t trouble trouble ’til trouble troubles you; you’ll only make your trouble double-trouble when you do.”
“Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord” (Ps 119:1, NLT).
A woman of God is invaluable. She lives by faith, walks in truth, acts in grace, and serves by love.
Imagine locating an unexploded bomb in a ruined building. What they found was even more alarming!
This story in the life of Josiah is another reminder that holiness and happiness are good friends.
“If I could relive my life, I would devote my entire ministry to reaching children for God.” —D.L. Moody
The God who changes grit into pearls and coal into diamonds can change sinners into saints.
“My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother” (Prov 1:8).
“Like the blind man, if you can’t see Jesus in the New Testament, go and soak a while in the Old!” —D.W.G.
The Chronicler briefly mentions one of the most remarkable events in Hezekiah’s storied life.
“The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life” (Job 33:4).
Faith fortifies God’s people. But facts fortify us, too. And a face-off between God and the foe would be nice!
With tongue in cheek, the wit declared, “Nepotism is fine, as long as you keep it in the family.”
Rehoboam’s enemy could only strengthen him. It was Rehoboam himself who weakened Judah.
If only Rehoboam sat down with the Lord first, he might have fortified God’s flock instead of fleecing them!
Like Rehoboam, any time our personal agendas block out the voice of God, we’ll lose ground.
The Lord’s restraint in expunging sins of the saints doesn’t extend to unrepentant sinners.
It’s a poor diet to eat “the muscle that shrank” (Gen 32:32)—feeding on the failures of God’s people.
There’s wisdom in the adage, “Do your giving while you’re living; then you’re knowing where it’s going.”
One of heaven’s ‘remarkabilities’? Both the queen of Sheba and I will feel at home there!
“Everywhere God is present, and always He seeks to discover Himself to each one.” —A.W. Tozer
When it all crumbles around and within, hallelujah for the faithfulness of God’s faithfulness.
Here is the watershed in every life: “if you walk before Me” or “if you turn away” (2 Chron 7:17, 19).
In worship, it’s better to have heart without words than words without heart. But why not both?
“I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit” (Isa 57:15).
Knowing God’s plan is essential. Planning brings the future into the present so we can act wisely.
“Whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name…will by no means lose his reward” (Mk 9:41).
One vital key of good leadership is knowing that every word and action has far-reaching consequences.
One way of peacemaking is to leave the fire of contention alone. Let it go out by itself. —C.H. Spurgeon
The riches you hold in your hands are inferior to the treasures of truth you store in your heart.
The gatekeepers were to the city what mothers are to the home (Titus 2:5)—Gk, oikouros, home guards.
Our priesthood, like Christ’s, is different from the Aaronic priesthood, not based on law but on grace.
The Levites remind me of the words, “It takes more grace than tongue can tell to play the second fiddle well.”
Faithful hearts seek wise investments in time that will only come to full fruition in eternity.
Moriah combines râ’â + yâh, meaning “seen, approved, considered, or enjoyed by Jehovah.”
God in Christ has devised a way by which justice can be satisfied and yet mercy can triumph.
In this math, it’s the answer that makes the problem: 1,570,000 – 70,000 = so much heartache!
Why do you need to count the soldiers when our Commander can win with many or with few?
The present is preparation time. Ben Franklin wrote, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”
A good thing is not always God’s will for you, but God’s will for you will always be a good thing.
In many places, it’s rare to hear a whole congregation saying, “Amen!” But imagine a whole nation!
Everyone has a psalm. One may be entirely for little Israel, but the next embraces the whole world!
Repeat the psalms? Of course! “Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life” (P.P. Bliss).
Remember God’s light in dark days, His warmth in life’s chills, His smile when the world frowns.
“Christ possessed by faith here is young heaven and glory in the bud” (Samuel Rutherford).
The daily enjoyment of the Lord makes every moment a celebration of His goodness and glory.
Jesus said, “I do not receive honor from men” ( Jn 5:41). Seek the Father’s approval, not a fickle world’s.
God’s ark “in the midst”? See Lk 2:46; Mt 18:20; Jn 19:18; 20:26; Heb 2:12; Rev 1:13; 5:6; 7:17.
Gathering simply around the Lord is still the prime basis of unity among the people of God.
God couldn’t have a king who went from seeking divine wisdom to seeking dinner with a witch!
A questioner asked a street preacher, “If God is our Father, who is our mother?” Jerusalem (Gal 4:26)!
We don’t choose our families, but we do choose if they are focused on God and founded on love.
We are now visiting the land of Samaria, Joseph’s territory, and the coastal region near modern Haifa.
Imagine going into battle with a donkey, a wolf, and a deer (Gen 49). Sounds like an Aesop’s fable!
“What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God” (2 Cor 6:16).
Our Lord Jesus is the High Priest and Chief Singer, but He calls on us to join Him in this holy work.
Our battles aren’t fought against flesh and blood, but they won’t be won by our flesh, either.
“The genealogy is not listed according to the birthright.” Joseph got the blessing, but Judah got the scepter.
This section ends with those who “dwelt with the king for his work” (1 Chron 4:13). Able and available!
Jews have lived in almost every country on the planet. Yet only in Israel have they been self-governed.
Today people rarely think about the meaning of their child’s name. But Caleb? A “dog”? Really?
A whelp is a lion’s cub, remaining with its mother for two years until it learns to hunt. Then watch out!
The narrowing of the world down to one Man was to be inclusive, not exclusive—a Savior for all!
Sovereignty masterfully plays the world’s greatest love song on the broken strings of countless human hearts.
There doesn’t seem to be much meat on the bones in chapters 1-9. But bones can teach us, too.
Bible blessings don’t come to the most observant, but the most obedient—but observing helps!
Paul spoke of “endless genealogies.” Christ was their end point. Reject Him and they’re endless.
Some battles we lose because the enemy is strong; some are lost because we simply run away.
The last ruling priest (Eli), the last judge (Samson), the last king—all blind. And the last church? (Rev 3:17).
Events are happening quickly as the foundations crumble under Judah. It’s kingdoom time!
Strange how the people must be taken far away to discover what He had given them back at home.
We’re now beginning to see the dominos fall in Judah. But this isn’t random. It’s God’s hand of judgment.
Beware the mid-life crisis, thinking you can handle yourself by now. That’s when the devil gets you!
Josiah’s purging went all the way back to Solomon; his Passover the best since before the judges!
Ruskin said that God graciously bears with many things in our hearts, but not second place.
Imagine if astronauts had found a manuscript on the moon, or on Mars. But a book from heaven?
Josiah’s name means “whom Jehovah heals.” Was this to be a life-long reminder of his godly great-grandfather?
The human heart is so mercurial, the nation can go from best to worst in one generation!
Some think the 15 Songs of Degrees (with 10 anonymous) were compiled to commemorate this event.
Anyone who has read the Bible knows that God inspires the poets, in fact, the best poets in history!
When believers are falsely accused by the enemy, our Advocate steps forward to speak for us.
Words are free, but how you arrange them and then use them can prove to be very expensive.
Here is high praise: “after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor…before him” (2 Ki 18:5).
The imports found a ready spot for their idols: “the high places which the Samaritans had made” (2 Ki 17:29)!
Israel “secretly did against the Lord their God things that were not right” (2 Ki 17:9). Really? Can we act like this?
Was the coming king more influenced by the prayers of his grandfather than the deeds of his father?
The verse, “Thou God seest me” (Gen 16:13, KJV) is the bane of the sinner and the boon of the saint.
Live and let live. Kill and be killed. Is it really that hard to make a choice? For some, apparently so.
Those judged by leprosy—Miriam, Gehazi, Uzziah—all acted against God in selfish unrestraint.
Israel’s 13th ruler, Jeroboam II, reigned longer (41 years) and over more land than any other king of Israel.
Never pick a fight with the devil. Never battle in your own strength. And never yield to his wiles.
History is piled on top of history in this fabled land, and also “grace upon grace” ( Jn 1:16 NASB).
It’s one thing to defeat the big, bad foe on the battlefield, quite another to vanquish the idol inside.
Jehoash warns us that we can carefully invest our whole lives, but lose it all at the last. Watch out!
There’s a Jehoash (or Joash) in both Judah and Israel. We’ll use Jehoash for Judah and Joash for Israel.
The world still awaits its Athaliah moment. Instead of crying “Treason!” it will be “Alas! Alas!” (Rev 18:10).
King-killing has a long history. If you can’t vote them out, you carry them out. But this is different!
Men and nations who execute God’s judgment are nonetheless also judged for their actions.
All families impact society for good or ill. Ahab’s family were so vile that their house must be razed.
God has a long memory. The prophecies concerning the house of Ahab were about to come true.
Vessels of wrath like Jehu fit themselves for destruction, but God uses them for His purposes.
You may have a time keeping the kings’ names straight. They certainly didn’t keep their paths straight!
Middle knowledge? God’s awareness of what would happen in any possible set of circumstances.
Can God affect our past as well as our present and future? If we don’t “redeem the time,” will He?
Just outside the walls of Samaria sat four lepers having a conference. The topic was death—theirs.
The doubter proved his ignorance of heaven’s architecture. Make windows? See Malachi 3:10.
The Syrians were at it again, Israel’s constant aggressor, moving in from the northeast to plunder.
“Does iron float?” might seem to be in the same category as “Do pigs fly?” But don’t be too sure!
Silver, Gehazi’s plunder, pictures redemption in the Bible. Do we charge for God’s gracious gifts?
Not a king; a prophet. Not a prophet; a servant. Not Abana, but Jordan—seven times! Down, down, down.
You can see how Elisha’s care for the hurting and hungry reflects the gracious ministry of Christ.
This wasn’t just bad cooking! It was a case of bad practice—tossing in some mystery food!
There isn’t a boring page in the Bible. And surely miracles like this are nothing to sneeze at!
We don’t think of it at birth, but each baby comes pre-scheduled for a funeral. Thank God for eternal hope!
It defies common sense but conforms to heaven’s logic. If you need more, pour what you have on others.
Victory came when the grain offering was given (v 20), a picture of our being living sacrifices to God.
If only such times would make us cry, “My soul thirsts for You…in a dry and thirsty land” (Ps 63:1).
Over these two events we may write, “Consider the goodness and severity of God” (Rom 11:22).
“Passing the mantle,” used now as a common idiom, has its origin in this chapter of the Bible.
Was John the Baptizer Elijah? John said No; Jesus said Yes. How could they both be right?
Jesus was “carried up” (Lk 24:51), “taken up” (Acts 1:9), “received up” (1 Tim 3:16). It makes me want to go up!
God loves boldness in faith. Have you “asked a hard thing” of Him lately? He specializes in the impossible.
The towns that Elijah and Elisha visited were rich with memories and with life lessons as well.
Don’t trifle with a God who “makes His messengers winds and His servants flames of fire” (Ps 104:4, WEB).
The world’s governments have experts on everything. But who seeks the Wonderful Counselor?
The highlights of a life can be expressed in a few lines—not what I say but whether I walk with God.
The believer’s greatest danger is not found in times of persecution but in times of popularity.
Three years passed after Ahab got a glimpse into his future—years of God’s longsuffering grace.
It’s usually good we don’t know our future on earth, but very good to know our future in heaven.
“God does not always pay at the end of the week, but at the end, He pays” (Anne of Austria).
Saul, like Ahab, had an ill-timed showing of mercy. In Saul’s case, it almost led to the end of the Jews.
The mountaintop is the place of vision; the valley turns that vision into hard-fought reality.
The retreat with God at Horeb was over. Elijah had work to do; it was now time to advance.
If we’re listening, the gentle voice of God will drown out the rantings of our wicked enemies.
The fact that God shows up when we have given up is proof that He hasn’t given up on us!
The one prominence you notice on the Israeli coast is the Carmel range pushing into the sea.
One year. Two years. Three years had passed with cloudless skies, barren fields, and empty tables.
Meet the first one immortalized in the words, “Women received their dead raised to life again” (Heb 11:35).
Learning to accept groceries from unclean birds prepared Elijah for his next stop—a Gentile’s home.
Those who lead others into unbelief “are wells without water, clouds carried by a tempest” (2 Pet 2:17).
Old-time preachers sometimes sounded like a fire alarm—because they believed there was a fire!
The title looks forward to the Millennium, but God has spoken by children through the ages.
A feeble priest. Failing eyesight. A flickering lamp. But a faithful young servant to carry on!
The child Samuel proves that even little flames can show the difference between light and darkness.
People who think “good guys end up last” need to listen to the thrilling words of Hannah’s song.
Every answered prayer is both a blessing and a burden, God’s supply and a stewardship of it.
A newborn weighs a few pounds and is totally dependent on its mother. But it shouldn’t stay like that!
The birth of Samuel may have seemed inconsequential, but it was a divine intervention in history.
Tears are often liquid prayers, but prayers expressed can more surely lay hold of the promises.
Two wives in one house is trouble enough, but when one bears children and the other can’t—fireworks!
Before we can be ready to reign with Him, He must teach us the secret of His rule in our own hearts.
There’s plenty of meat on these bones, but it’s helpful to trace the skeleton of the book first.
A brief review of what’s before the book we’re studying will set the stage for our coming trip.
Don’t you love to look at a well-made scale model? If so, wait till you see the real wedding day!
The largesse of the heart of Boaz is reminiscent of the five “much mores” found in Romans 5.
If a man was unwilling to redeem his kin, you were to spit at him (Deut 25:9). But why Jesus?
The threshing floors of Scripture are a great study, where we learn to separate chaff from wheat.
“The Angel of His Presence saved them; in His love and in His pity He redeemed them” (Isa 63:9).
An ephah of beaten out barley (Ruth 2:17) was a full bushel! Naomi knew something was up!
Was opportunity knocking? When Boaz opened the door, the will of God was standing there.
Orpah, returning to Moab, disappears in obscurity; Ruth, choosing Israel’s God, gains immortality.
With relief we move from the rigorous account of the Judges to the delightful little story of Ruth.
What happens when people don’t seek wisdom from above? The cure is worse than the disease.
Little Benjamin defeats all the other tribes? Obviously the 11 had some hard lessons to learn, too!
Do you think humanity needs a Savior? God gives it to us straight. We are rotten to the core!
In the Bible, a journey to Jerusalem is always up; when Dan moves north, it’s downhill all the way.
These last chapters show how Israel discovers what’s wrong with doing what’s right in your own eyes
Samuel may be considered the last judge, but in Judges itself, Samson is the end of the line.
How many struggling saints have found hope in Samson’s final prayer, “just this once, O God” (Jdg 16:28).
“A foolish son is the ruin of his father, and the contentions of a wife are a continual dripping” (Prov 19:13).
Whatever Samson’s liabilities, he still appears in Hebrews 11, God’s Hall of Faith. But why?
Samson shows that in seeking revenge you dig two graves: one for your enemy, one for yourself.
Yes, the strong man would be defeated like the lion, and women’s honeyed tongues would do it.
Seven times we read of Samson going down, not just geographically, but spiritually as well.
Angel appearances in Judges: regarding the weak strong judge (6:11-24) and the strong weak judge (13:3-23)
God keeps good records, and takes note of some that others would pass by. All are important to Him.
Do you speak Christian? It is its own language, you know! But now, what dialect do you use?
The debate still rages about the fate of Jephthah’s daughter, but it sure is a warning about vows.
One reason to cling to truths, promises, and blessings is that it was God who gave them to us.
After Jair’s death, the Scripture spotlight lingers on the land of Gilead. Who is this Jephthah?
How many unknown servants of God have been used by Him to change the course of history!
The blood of Gideon’s sons cried out for justice. God knows how to deal with those who bully His people.
Some problems come upon us; others we bring on ourselves. Here, Gideon did this to himself!
If we can see it, Gideon’s identity crisis will teach us who we are in God’s eyes, and that’s enough.
Succoth and Peniel, famous for their connection with Jacob, fail to help in the time of need.
We’ve been told that Gideon liked working the night shift out of fear (Jdg 6:27). But God…
Man thinks might is right; God says right is might. “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rom 8:31).
True faith in God needs to be seen first in the family before it’s seen on the field of battle.
Some men might be ready for the fight, but what good is that if God’s people have no food?
Here’s another proof that the Bible isn’t old fashioned—it’s timeless. The prophet speaks to us!
It’s always a blessed thing to remember and celebrate the victories given to us by the Lord.
Some fleshly enemies, like Eglon, must be slain through their bellies; others, through their brains.
The ups and downs here might remind you of those in Ephesians 4:8-10. And for good reason!
Would you volunteer to throw an ill-trained militia against a massed force of professional warriors?
Moderns make Deborah out to be a feminist. Not so. She served privately by her own door.
We continue our tour of God’s armory. A dagger, yes, but an ox goad? What can you do with that?
Though his name means “united,” ironically, Ehud fought alone. But Israel certainly was united afterward!
“Joshua fit de battle of Jericho!” Why isn’t there a song about Ehud fighting there as well?
Among all the things we can love about God, surely His longsuffering patience is very special.
Don’t want God to be your ruler? Then try Cushan-Rishathaim, Cushan of Double Wickedness!
God’s sovereignty triumphs again—taking human failure and turning it into blessings for us!
It’s a hard fact that children are more ready to follow their parents’ example than their advice.
God wants to teach His people the unbroken relationship between action and consequence.
We may not break a covenant with Jehovah, but if we make a deal with the devil, same difference.
“You have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise” (Heb 10:36).
Before a report card on the tribal mopping-up operations, the Lord adds a note about some Gentiles!
Oh for a heart like Achsah’s, seeking all that the Giver of every good and perfect gift has for us.
The first judge, the young man Othniel, is very ready to jeopard his life to capture—a wife!
The devil doesn’t take you seriously, as long as you have no grasp on the Sword of the Spirit.
The first short paragraph of Judges chapter 1 is a portend of things to come. Who will lead them?
This book isn’t for the faint-hearted. There’s no gratuitous violence, but plenty that shows sin’s results.
Often the real impact of a person’s life is best seen after they die. That was true of Joshua, and Jesus, too.
At the height of his career, Joshua waits at the very end of the line to receive his inheritance.
Fathers! Is your desire to see your children revered by the world? You set a trap for their souls.
Reminiscing about the past isn’t always a sign of old age; sometimes it’s a sign of wisdom.
Joshua was no armchair general. He had experienced the real parry and thrust of active warfare.
When we hear that fellow Christians have done wrong, let’s pause long enough to hear their side.
The spiritual and practical unite in our lives when God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven.
“Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us” (Ps 62:8).
There are two pictures of the tribe of Dan, fraught with danger, like warning signs along the road.
I never leave Naphtali’s land, skirting sweet Galilee, without a deeper longing for the Great Galilean.
When baby Asher was born, Leah was happy. When baby Jesus was born, Anna from Asher was happy.
Issachar, with a fighting male census of 64,300, was the third most populous tribe in Israel.
Zebulun, numbering 240,000 fighting men, was nevertheless given one of the smallest regions.
The NT Jacob reminds us, “the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (Jas 1:20).
Benjamin, the younger brother of Joseph, was last in line with eleven big, blustery siblings.
How ironic: “This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours” (Lk 20:14).
As Willie McVey put it, “Woe betide any son of Anak who crossed Caleb’s path that day!”
As much as we like to plan our lives, God’s unexpected adjustments tune things to the best outcome.
Look at a tribal map of Israel. Nowhere does it say, “Levi.” How could they possibly have the best part?
You may not have been much of a landowner down here, but wait till the Lord divvies up the universe!
On the record: “These are the kings of the land whom the children of Israel defeated” (Jos 12:1).
We must believe that the extent of God’s judgment on Canaan was both deserved and necessary.
“Someday you’ll hear God’s final call to you…This could be it, my friend, if you but knew; God’s final call.” (J.W.P.)
Hazor means “walled,” and the city stood in defiance against the God they refused to worship.
Next stop, Hazor, the largest city in the country and one of the most pivotal in the Fertile Crescent.
Joshua left one city, really the chief city, to be defeated hundreds of years later by David. But why?
God put creation under the first Adam; it will take the Last Adam to put it all back in place.
Up all day. March uphill through the wilds all night. Fight all the next day. And that isn’t long enough?
“The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord” (Ps 2:2).
A “servant of servants” Canaan was to be. It can’t be missed that Jesus took that very role for us!
When the other Joshua came here, He said God is still seeking those who worship in spirit and truth.
Actually, they hanged Jesus, then slew Him, but Peter reverses the order, showing the awful historic link.
Sometimes we can’t “fight the good fight” unless we’re willing to first “flee the good flight.”
Achan’s formula for spiritual failure: “I saw [them]…I coveted them and took them” (Jos 7:21).
It’s dangerous to presume on the Lord. He doesn’t like being taken for granted any more than we do.
Very often, little lessons, the ones that we tend to miss, can be the most helpful in the long run.
Did the walls come tumbling down, as the chorus says? Not exactly. It’s more amazing than that!
Seven days. Seven times on Day Seven. Seven priests with seven trumpets. Talk about a perfect plan!
What makes the difference between a warrior and a worrier? Keeping your eye on the Commander.
“You provide their grain, for so You have prepared it…You crown the year with Your goodness” (Ps 65:9,11).
Gilgal—what a picturesque name for the turning point in the history of the nation of Israel!
This is for you! “I will never leave [let up My care for] you nor forsake [loosen My hold on] you.”
Watch as two stone piles are raised, one in the river and one out of the river. What do they mean?
The Jordan River not only flows through the land of Israel; it also flows through biblical history.
As was said of the Thames, the Jordan River—for far longer and far greater—is liquid history.
So that’s why the spies selected Rahab’s house! It was built on the wall of Jericho! Over and out!
Jericho must fall. Israel can’t move inland while the possibility of an attack from the rear exists.
The Christian life is a fight. Courage is crucial because everything worth having must be fought for.
Let’s hope we’re actually standing on the promises, and not just sitting in the premises.
You’ve noticed: “Moses My servant is dead.” But it should be just as obvious: you’re not—yet!
“Rest is not quitting our busy career; Rest is the fitting of self to one’s sphere.” —J.S. Dwight
“Faith is an affirmation and an act That bids eternal truth be fact.” —Samuel Taylor Coleridge
“Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua” (Jos 24:31).
There is no greater mission than the one Joshua faced—until we meet his namesake, Jesus!
As we come to the close of this book, how good to focus our eyes on the One who gives life freely!
Jesus said to the Jews of His day, “If you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me” (Jn 5:46).
Although Moses’ work was done, “his eyes were not dim nor his natural vigor diminished” (Deut 34:7).
If just one thing was said about you, describing your whole life, what would you like it to be?
Zebulun and Issachar, the last two sons of Leah, were given their inheritance in the Galilee.
Rachel’s sons were special to Jacob, but all of God’s children are “His own special people” (1 Pet 2:9).
Some people just see our flaws and pity us; thank God for those who see our potential and pray for us!
Jacob’s dozen, with all their failures, are finally brought by grace to have their names on heaven’s gates.
The book of Deuteronomy has at least one final surprise for us—a song for Gentiles to sing!
Before you disagree with the title, you tell me the main theme of Moses’ birthday song.
“Be strong and of good courage,…for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you” (Deut 31:6).
“I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life…” (Deut 30:19).
Faith is no leap in the dark. Over the centuries, God has given ample proof of His trustworthiness.
Would Israel exemplify trust, or be “an astonishment, a proverb, and a byword among all nations” (Deut 28:37)?
What happens when we walk in obedience? “The Lord will open to you His good treasure” (Deut 28:12).
“Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us” (Gal 3:13).
Writing things down gives clarity and focus, sharpens comprehension, and shows what is vital.
God loves to bless His people, but blessing the willfully disobedient sends a dangerous message.
God not only gives to us so we are blessed, but also so we are the means of His blessing to others.
“So you shall rejoice in every good thing which the Lord your God has given to you” (Deut 26:11).
The enemies of God’s people know no compromise. The devil is looking for those he can devour.
As they say, people dishonest in business may eat better, but the honest ones sleep better.
In both the treatment of a criminal and of a working ox, we see the link between action and consequence.
There’s nothing more interesting than a general store, and chapters like these sure look like one.
A marriage breakdown can usually be traced to a heart breakdown, so let’s build up with love instead.
As we move through life, choosing what to say Yes and No to will either free or enslave us.
The nation of Israel must be protected from anything that might jeopardize the coming of the Christ.
The desire to push God’s boundaries and break down barriers is the path to self-destruction.
A wise use of the Lord’s creation will result in fruitful living and careful stewardship, too.
Life isn’t complicated as God designed it; we complicate it by taking detours from the narrow way.
God was not going to micromanage Israel. They needed ways to handle the unknown as well.
There is no mercy only for those who despise it; there is no pardon only for those who reject it.
There are enough verses on peace in the Bible that you could read a new one every day in the year.
Solomon says there is “a time of war” (Eccl 3:8) but some people aren’t ready when it comes.
They say that if blood was indelible, Jerusalem, the “city of peace,” would be red, all red.
Here are God’s principles for the courts: honesty, corroboration, inquiry, fair sentencing.
“Ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls” (Jer 6:16).
We’re using this title because we had an earlier tour of them when we studied Numbers 35.
No other volume claiming to be a holy book provides the ironclad proof of fulfilled prophecies.
“Do not believe every spirit…because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 Jn 4:1).
As we approach the end of this section on God’s representatives, we are introduced to His prophets.
The West, like ancient Israel, has largely turned their back on the true God and followed after idols.
Greater than Levi’s blessing, believers today are “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ” (Rom 8:17).
Of course we know that all these offices could only officially unite in one glorious Man.
Who was it that came up with three branches of government: executive, judicial and legislative?
God the Father is for us; God the Son is with us; God the Spirit is in us—are we thankful yet?
A servant bound by love to Christ has the greatest freedom. He is free to be what he was made for.
Before you lend money at interest to a friend or family member, decide which you want more.
This ancient principle is the same today: sharing God’s blessings will also enrich your life.
Strange as it seems, God wants us to feed on Him! “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Ps 34:8).
Some things in our culture may be neutral for the believer, but others are the devil’s weaponry.
It’s good to have close family and friends, but they should never be closer than our Lord.
The saying is true: “A good gardener must not only love flowers; he must also hate weeds.”
The term “iconoclast” today means a belief denier, but originally described an idol destroyer.
If we don’t sow God’s seeds in children’s hearts, the devil will eagerly sow his weeds there.
Like a gambler’s winnings, this world often robs one to enrich another. Not so God’s blessings!
Moses gives a two-part portrait of the Son and Spirit who, in spite of our failures, are always for us.
The Ten Commandments show us the difference between simple and easy. They’re simple but not easy!
It’s almost time “to cross over the Jordan” (Deut 9:1), but the Lord has a few things to tell them first.
Remember we talked about remembering? Good! Do you remember what they were to remember?
People who like to think they’re self-made also want to believe this world made itself. What madness!
If there are two things we’d rather not have, wouldn’t they be humbling and chastening?
“When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, What a glory He sheds on our way!” (J.H. Sammis)
The West has become like Canaan, with its worship of sex, power, and things. The Judge is at the door!
Atheists charge God as a war criminal in Canaan. They’re angry with a God they say doesn’t exist!
When people say, “I just want love; I don’t want hate,” they haven’t thought things through.
The subject of fearing the Lord appears 13 times in this book—a baker’s dozen for good measure.
Is it true that the more the Lord is giving, the less is our thanksgiving? May it never be!
God thinks we can never have too much of His Word practically applied to our family lives.
It’s futile to hear God’s Word preached, then go away and act as if He had nothing to say to us.
Carving the Decalogue into stone is a fairly strong hint that God wasn’t going to change His mind.
Imagine how it would feel for a fugitive to step within the walls of a city of refuge. Safe at last!
It wasn’t a question of Whodunit? The issue to be settled in these court cases was why.
Jesus’ eyes are like a flame of fire (Rev 1:14). Let Him look at your life to show you what’s fireproof.
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed [happy] is the man who trusts in Him!” (Ps 34:8).
It should go without saying that you won’t improve the Mona Lisa by adding a moustache.
One of the greatest lessons we can ever learn—as Moses eventually did—is that failure is not final.
True of us? “They were filled and their heart was exalted; therefore they forgot Me” (Hos 13:6).
How embarrassing it can be watching old family movies! No doubt, Israel found it the same.
If the Lord is our God, we must be His people, and that sounds like a covenant arrangement!
Words allow the transfer of thoughts from one mind to another, and these are GOD’S thoughts!
Breaking a long trip into sections will help to give you a sense of progress as each one is completed.
When you’ve lived 120 years, walking with God for a century, you’ll have something worth saying!
Numbers is like a lavish art gallery adding more portraits of Christ to this wonderful Bible museum.
Why these two court cases are featured in Numbers may be answered in Jesus’ lineage (Lk 3:23).
Will you give God back the keys to the life He has given you? He’s looking for refreshers and rescuers.
Golan, Ramoth, and Bosor were east of the Jordan, and Kedesh, Shechem, and Hebron on the west.
Numbers 33 reads like a travelog. Don’t you wish there was a movie? Or at least a few selfies?
Would we reach out to help animals, but not our brother or sister? See Mt 12:10-14 and Lk 13:11-17.
The conflict (Num 31:1-12); the corrective (vv 13-18); the cleansing (vv 19-20); the cache (vv 21-54).
Life oscillates between discussing and doing. There is a time for words and a time for action.
God wanted people to be able to count on His word, and on what His people said, as well.
When Mary poured her ointment out, Judas said, “What waste!” Jesus said, “What worship!”
Don’t underestimate the influence of an Elijah on an Elisha, a Moses on a Joshua, or a Paul on a Timothy.
It seemed like a little thing, but how could it be when the revelation of God’s character was at stake?
How God loves boldness in faith! Zelophehad means “united” and his daughters certainly were.
A list of names might seem like an old skeleton, but don’t be shocked if it makes some exciting moves!
Remember that the book called Numbers gets its name from census-takings at the start and finish.
James tells us that sin looks like a cute baby at first, but it grows into a monster and kills us!
I hope you didn’t miss the miracle of inspiration in the previous lessons. Look who’s listening!
Balaam gave Balak a bonus prophecy, one which he didn’t want: all who defy God will be losers!
“He saved others!” “This Man receives sinners!” That’s honey from Satan, the defeated lion’s carcass.
Don’t be wishy-washy about your eternal destiny. Jesus must be your Savior or Judge. You choose!
“The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush, but the speech of the upright rescues them” (Prov 12:6, CSB).
Balaam must have been some fellow. They traveled 800 miles—twice—to acquire his services!
If the enemy can’t win through a frontal attack, he’ll try subterfuge and sabotage to get us!
Can you feel the excitement as Israel moves into position to enter Canaan? Almost there!
Blessings around us should cause the wellsprings of our hearts to burst forth in praise to God.
Sometimes God supernaturally gives manna; sometimes He lets us gather in the ripened fields.
Often the way forward begins with going back. Confessing to our dark deeds brings us into light.
It’s no fun thinking you’re almost finished, only to discover that you still have a long way to go.
Israel detours rather than engaging Edom in battle, but when Arad fights, they’re up to the challenge!
Have you spoken to Christ, the Rock, lately in seeking His blessing? The water will gush out!
It’s great to be saved from sin’s penalty, but how can we practically deal with daily defilement?
Here’s a sacrifice which, in picture, was to be offered only once, but whose benefits are timeless.
“God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name” (Heb 6:10).
David would famously write, “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Ps 23:4). Comfort by a rod?
Do you know who “treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God”? It’s Jesus!
We need to be careful before we charge God with being cruel or unfair. The sons of Korah agree.
There is only one place of safety. Everyone else is under “the wrath of God” (Jn 3:36).
Dathan and Abiram, didn’t you know? Being wrapped up in yourself makes a very small package.
Moses won’t argue for his God-given position, but he will give the rebels something to think about.
The situation described here is as current as issues faced in the church today, and just as volatile!
God’s instruction makes good fashion sense. Heavenly blue is a great addition to any outfit.
From Numbers 14:26 through chapter 19, we have a historical hiatus. Just three events are noted.
God isn’t easily discouraged, is He? If He were, He wouldn’t have taken me on as a project!
Positive thinking is only slightly better than negative thinking if we still leave the Lord out of it.
You can hardly be closer to the heart of Christ than when you plead God’s mercy for someone else.
Sometimes a project doesn’t work. It would be easier to scrap it and start something different.
Influenza is just the Italian word for influence. Yes, we all have it, and it’s very contagious!
One man from each tribe was selected “to spy out the land of Canaan.” How many can you name?
Here’s a big what if. What if they had just entered the land in faith instead of spying it out first?
They say, “When it rains, it pours”? If so, Moses should have been pulling out his hip waders!
When God’s Yes means No! “He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their soul” (Ps 106:15).
Moses gives us an inspiring example of spiritual large-heartedness. May his tribe increase!
T.E.A.M. Together Everyone Achieves More. And individually yielding to the Spirit is the secret.
When you’ve had it, and then see God’s EXIT sign, going through it will take you right into His arms.
It may be tantalizing to consider leaving your problems behind, but take them to Him instead.
Giving in to my earthly appetites and allowing them to rule my life will, in the end, eat me up!
Complaining today about yesterday won’t make tomorrow better. Prayer is a much better plan!
Believer, you may not see Christ your Ark up ahead, or God your Cloud overhead, but They’re there!
Moses knew the Lord promised them Canaan, but forgot He also promised to lead them there.
So you’re in the desert. No signs. No indication of the safe path ahead. How do you find your way?
David said, “I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure” (Ps 119:162). You’ll find it here, too
When the Levites couldn’t carry the big loads anymore, they could still care for those who could.
Imagine that! After the offerings were made for the Levites, then they became an offering, too!
Isaiah 52:11 gives the command of the Lord: “Be clean, you who bear the vessels of the Lord.”
It has been famously said, “Who would stoop to be a king when you can be a servant of God?”
A rest is as important as a note, and a missing word may have a message we otherwise might miss.
Here were the original “Twelve Days” of giving. But sorry, no leaping lords or maids a-milking.
I wonder: Was the giving in Numbers 7 a spontaneous response to God’s blessing in chapter 6?
What would be the best words to do the greatest good to the people that we love the most?
God wanted the whole nation to be separated to Him. But if not, were some willing to choose this?
From our location in human history, the “trial by ordeal” for a woman would be unthinkable!
When you’re going on a long journey with others, it’s best to get things right before leaving.
“…you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Eph 2:22).
It seems an impossible task that the Levites had. Carry the furniture, but don’t touch?
Similar to elders and deacons in the Church Age, priests and Levites co-labored in God’s work.
“There’s no better book with which to defend the Bible than the Bible itself.” —D.L. Moody
Sin disenfranchised me and left me a homeless pauper. But God’s Firstborn came looking for me!
Some things only the Jubilee can fix. But everything will be fixed that day. Come, Lord Jesus!
We’re no longer under the law to keep the Sabbath, but we still need regular rest to be recharged.
“Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.…these things ought not to be so” (Jas 3:10).
What a surprise the world is in for! A perfect government—but only in nail-pierced hands.
Camping can be great fun. God wanted His people to spend a week camping every year. But why?
The long, sweltering days of Israel’s alienation from her God will soon give place to her rebirth!
How much we owe God’s Spirit! Our life, gifts, unity, peace, guidance, instruction, comfort…
For almost two months the people labored in the fields; then it was time to celebrate again!
The firstfruits sheaf wasn’t the whole harvest, but it was a promise of the harvest to come.
The Passover and this feast are linked, as much as are Christ’s death for us and His life in us.
Fascinating! As far as God is concerned, the true beginning of history was the death of His Son!
Could you paint a panorama of Israel’s history with seven special holidays? The Lord did!
The Lord puts us in a very special place in His mind and heart. Do we do the same with Him?
Even those who cannot at present be acting as priests must make sure to keep eating as priests.
Here the subject is: the difference it makes when our lives are lived just to please the Lord.
Sin is a nation’s greatest weakness. When it proliferates, it can overthrow the whole system.
Here’s a controversial topic if ever there was one. But God is up front in His dealing with it.
This chapter provided a whole array of ways to practically live out what it means to be holy.
Contrary to the notion that sin is pleasure, it distances us from God and His true abiding joy.
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jer 17:9). We need a heart transplant!
Safety rules require lots of repetition. God never tires of telling His people about the blood.
“He causes the grass to grow for the cattle…that he may bring forth food from the earth” (Ps 104:14).
The Hebrew word azazel means “to be completely put aside.” But what does it mean to you?
On this most important day in the Jewish year, the high priest was to dress down for the occasion.
You know the phrase “near and dear”? God’s people are dear to Him; He wants us near. But how?
We all need days like this, both for reassessment of the past and realignment for the future.
Like Naaman the Syrian, you could be young, rich, powerful—but if a leper, it all meant nothing.
Imagine the joy of a once-leprous sufferer when the priest “shall pronounce him clean” (Lev 14:7)!
The unwelcome sensation of pain is actually our friend, warning us that something needs help.
We must constantly be on guard for the tell-tale signs of sin’s effect in ourselves and those we love.
A doctor didn’t diagnose leprosy, nor did the examining priest. It was God who made the decisions!
Is there such a thing as a little leprosy? Or a little sin? Watch out! It’s sure to grow. And GROW.
Every child born into this world is of equal value, and in equal need of salvation, says God.
“Neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord” (1 Cor 11:11).
No surprise, prothrombin and vitamin K (for clotting) are at their highest levels on the eighth day.
Not surprisingly, the middle offering is the place where God and His own meet to fellowship.
If the grain offering speaks of the life of Christ, why would they need to add anything to it?
Long before Calvary, God’s Son “endured such hostility from sinners against Himself” (Heb 12:3).
Does Dad gain by giving his little ones money to buy him a gift? Yes! They turn his money into love.
To the believing Jew, what could be better than a sleek bull from Bashan offered to God?
It shouldn’t be a surprise that the first offering mentioned is all for God. He deserves it!
Generally, there are both practical and spiritual reasons for the choices that God makes.
As we read, we must remember that all Scripture is not only “inspired” but also “profitable.”
A butcher should know the various cuts of meat; a preacher should know the lessons intended.
How long does it take to learn that relationships involve responsibility, and sin is a bad idea?
If you want evidence that “Moses was very humble,” more than anyone else (Num 12:3), this is it.
What has eyes but can’t see, ears that can’t hear, a mouth that doesn’t speak? Man-made gods!
First observe to see needs; then serve to bless others; and reserve all glory to God for the results.
Warning! No “strange incense” (Ex 30:9), “strange fire” (Lev 10:1), or “strange gods” (Deut 32:16), KJV.
Did you know that through us God diffuses the fragrance of Christ’s knowledge in every place?
“Be clean, you who bear the vessels of the Lord,” wrote Isaiah (52:11). That’s good counsel.
Veil rending awaited Christ’s death, but even here business with God is done in the Holiest.
Prayer should arise from our hearts to God the way incense naturally and fragrantly rises.
“The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (Eccl 7:8).