Read – 2 Chronicles 10

What does it say?
Rehoboam listened to young advisors and vowed to oppress the people even more than his father had. They revolted, and the kingdom was divided.

What does it mean?
The wealth, power, and status achieved under Solomon came at a great price – the oppression of the people. As Rehoboam inherited the throne and all that his father had built, he was given the opportunity to win the hearts of his people by ruling with kindness and mercy. Instead, pride and arrogance drove him to inflict even greater oppression on the people under his rule. This selfish act tore the nation apart, and the kingdom was forever divided. Rehoboam rejected the wise counsel of his aged advisors and listened to younger men who were more interested in appeasing the king than in looking out for the best interest of the nation.

How should I respond?
Having an exalted view of yourself is extremely dangerous. Decisions made under the clouded vision that accompanies pride can carry devastating results for you and the people who surround you. Many of us struggle with the temptation to think too much of our own opinions. The key to resisting pride, however, is to focus on Christ and His will rather than on what would seem personally advantageous. Is your life characterized by a focus on selfish pursuits or by a heart motivated to honor God? When you’re faced with an area of pride today, ask God to show you how to honor Him instead.

Read – 2 Chronicles 9:13-31

What does it say?
As Solomon accumulated great riches and possessions, other kings sought an audience with him. He reigned 40 years over Israel and was buried in the city of David.

What does it mean?
Unlike his father David, Solomon’s reign was one of ease and enjoyment. He never asked God for wealth or fame, yet Solomon was blessed with exceeding riches and extraordinary wisdom. Everyone wanted an audience with the one who possessed the answers. Even kings and governors offered priceless gifts in exchange for an audience with the king of Israel. Solomon’s influence was as great as his wealth. His 40-year reign over Israel was marked by great accumulation and extravagant living.

How should I respond?
Your lifetime on this earth is a short journey. Days slip into months and months slip into years. All of your possessions and money will eventually fade away, but the influence you have on others can create an impact for eternity. None of us possess the wealth or wisdom of Solomon, but each of us can use what we do have as a means to share Christ. How can your talents and material blessings be leveraged to make an impact in your community? Giving your abilities to the Lord allows you to invest in the lives of others. Today, make every moment count.

Read – 2 Chronicles 9:1-12

What does it say?
The queen of Sheba visited Solomon. Impressed with Solomon’s wisdom, she presented him with gold, spices, and precious stones.

What does it mean?
The news of King Solomon’s wealth and wisdom had spread beyond Israel to the queen of Sheba. Intrigued by the rumors of his vast wealth and wisdom, the queen traveled to Jerusalem to meet Solomon in person. She observed his accomplishments as well as how he treated his servants and worshiped God. Solomon’s leadership abilities and interaction with the people impressed the queen. He was even greater than she had been told. As a result, she acknowledged the God of Israel as the source of Solomon’s wisdom and power.

How should I respond?
True character is defined not only by what you say but also by what you do. What words would you use to describe yourself? What is your reputation among your friends and family? The character of Christ is reflected in your choices as you follow God’s Word. As a result, people will want to know more about the God you serve and the difference He is making in your life. We each have a reputation. Our lives will make the people around us either curious or disinterested regarding Jesus. What lifestyle changes do you need to make in order to draw others closer to God?

Read – 2 Chronicles 8

What does it say?
Solomon rebuilt and fortified the cities. He kept the ordinances of worship and followed God.

What does it mean?
After years of battling their enemies, the Israelites experienced a time of peace; however, it was not a time to sit still and relax. Solomon seized the opportunity to strategically rebuild and strengthen the cities. Even in the midst of preparations and great accomplishments, Solomon did not forget the source of his success. He worshiped the Lord, observed the daily offerings in the temple, and followed God’s commands.

How should I respond?
During difficult periods of life, you have the potential to deepen your trust and faith in God. So what happens when the struggles lessen and life gets easier? How do you strategically use those moments to recharge and prepare for future uncertainties? Fortified faith is built by strengthening your relationship with God in daily prayer, Bible study, and worship. Satan enjoys targeting the unsuspecting person. Surrounding yourself with truth protects your heart and mind from his lies when you’re most vulnerable. What priorities do you need to change in order to prepare for the unknown?

Read – 2 Chronicles 7:11-22

What does it say?
After Solomon finished building the temple and the palace, the Lord conveyed to him the promise of blessings for obedience and the severe consequences of disobedience.

What does it mean?
Building an elaborate temple was a great accomplishment and greatly pleased the Lord, but God was more interested in the condition of the Israelites’ hearts than the work of their hands. Disobedience would affect not only their crops, health, and families but also the quality of their relationship with Him. But God always has a plan for restoration. The temple would be the dwelling place for God’s Name and heart. It was here that God’s people could be restored. If they humbly sought Him, prayed, and turned away from their sin, He promised to hear them, heal their lives, restore their land, and forgive their sin.

How should I respond?
Your outward obedience or disobedience to God’s commands is a reflection of what is going on in your heart. Obedience conveys the depth of your love for God and your desire to please Him. Disobedience, however, damages the quality of your relationship with the Lord and may block His blessing from your life. How would you describe your response to God’s Word? What sin has the Holy Spirit convicted you to turn away from? God promises to restore those who humbly seek forgiveness. Stop now and pray. God is inviting you to enjoy a depth of relationship that comes only by complete surrender.

Read – Psalms 132-134

What does it say?
David vowed to build a dwelling place for God, and God promised that his sons would rule forever if they followed Him. God’s people should praise Him in His sanctuary and be unified.

What does it mean?
The final three psalms in the Songs of Ascents directed Israel’s attention to the center for Israel’s worship – the temple. David’s vow to build a house for God was heavy on his mind during the early years of his reign, but it was not God’s will. It was his son Solomon who built the temple, God’s dwelling place where the tribes of Israel came together in unity to worship. Their common purpose was to sing songs of joy, seek the Lord’s blessing, and praise Him as the Maker of Heaven and Earth. The psalmist reiterates the promises God made when He chose Israel to be His people and David to be His king, both with conditions that involved their obeying and loving Him as Lord of their lives.

How should I respond?
Great things can be accomplished when the members of a family or community live for a common purpose. If any group should demonstrate that kind of peace and unity, it should be the church of Jesus Christ. What purpose do you have in mind as you head to church each week? Are you preoccupied with family matters, petty differences with church members, or opportunities to network for your business? As God’s people, we should cherish the time we spend together in worship. We may not always have the religious freedom to come together in the name of Jesus. Approach worship this week with joy and in a spirit of peace and unity with other believers. Together we can accomplish great things for the Lord.

Read – Psalms 129-131

What does it say?
Enemies continually oppressed Israel. The psalmist called on God’s mercy, urging Israel to put their hope in God’s Word and unfailing love. David, too, humbly hoped in the Lord.

What does it mean?
Psalms 129 and 130 were more than likely written by Hezekiah 300 years after David, as a young shepherd, penned Psalm 131. King Hezekiah’s prayers concerned two threats to Israel – enemies from outside her gates and sin within the nation itself. The placement of David’s short psalm directly after Hezekiah’s cry of desperation is not coincidental; his intercession even borrowed from young David’s words, ‘O Israel, put your hope in the Lord.’ Israel needed the same humility before the Lord that had been evident in her greatest king. Their righteous and merciful God was – and is – the only one who could protect and redeem them.

How should I respond?
How often do you pray on behalf of our nation? We need godly intercessors as never before. Like Israel in Hezekiah’s day, we’re reminded daily of nations whose hatred of our country drives them to seek our destruction. The arrogance and blatant rebellion of our own citizens against God and His Word are equally devastating. God’s love is unfailing, but His righteous, holy nature will not tolerate sin. His mercy and forgiveness are our only hope. Let’s unite in our desire for our nation, ‘O America, put your hope in the Lord!’

Read – 2 John

What does it say?
John commended the elect lady and her children for walking in truth and gave a warning not to entertain false teachers.

What does it mean?
It wasn’t uncommon for false teachers to infiltrate the early church. They traveled from place to place, attempting to influence new Christians by spreading new ideas that didn’t line up with the teachings of Christ. The recipient of John’s letter knew truth and recognized spiritual error. The identity of “the chosen lady” isn’t completely clear, but it’s thought that a church met in her home. She guarded truth in her home for her children and for her church family.

How should I respond?
Believers have a responsibility to live out the truth God has revealed to them and to warn others when biblical error is being taught. The truth of the Gospel is simple: Jesus, the Son of God, came to Earth as the perfect Man, died for the sins of the world, and then rose victorious from the grave. Do the television and radio preachers you listen to teach the whole gospel, or do they avoid parts of the Bible? You have a responsibility to search Scripture for yourself and make its truth a reality in your life. Whom do you need to guard from biblical error? Ask yourself if everything you believe lines up with the Word of God. Anything that robs Jesus of glory is not part of God’s truth.

Read – 1 John 5

What does it say?
Those who believe in Jesus Christ are born of God. Through Him believers have love for one another, answered prayer, victory over sin, and eternal life.

What does it mean?
The book of 1st John is about genuine Christianity. In the last chapter, John summarized the characteristics that should be evident in Christ’s followers and gave them assurances that what they believed was certain. Those who accept Jesus as Savior have a natural love for God and a desire to follow His commands. Spiritual birth as a child of God gives each believer the ability to understand spiritual truths and gain victory over habitual sin. Every temptation is a crossroad; a follower of Christ will either willfully disobey or willingly rely on the Holy Spirit for strength to resist sin.

How should I respond?
Christians have a variety of spiritual gifts, but every follower of Christ should display certain birthmarks. Love for God, His Word, His people, and a desire to joyfully do as He says are proof of a spiritual birth. Are the birthmarks of a believer evident in your life? What temptation has placed you at a crossroad? Desiring to obey still doesn’t mean it will be easy; the word “victory” indicates a battle. Jesus has already fought and won the victory over that sin at the Cross, enabling you to resist any temptation through the power of the Holy Spirit. Will you choose to willingly and joyfully obey Him today?

Read – 1 John 4

What does it say?
The One who is inside believers is greater than the one who is in the world. Since love comes from God, those who know God should love one another.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage focuses on two evidences of salvation: the power of God’s Spirit to illuminate truth and the power of God’s love to drive away fear. Those who receive Jesus as their Savior have the Spirit of God and the love of God inside of them. Satan’s forces try to lead believers off the right path through teaching a false message and by causing discord among Christ’s followers. John called on his friends to defeat the viewpoint of the world in their lives by relying on the Holy Spirit. Only He can empower believers to live in the reality that love has replaced fear as the driving force of life.

How should I respond?
When was the last time you stopped for a spiritual checkup? Take a moment to examine your heart for evidence that you’ve fallen for a lie from Satan. Do your attitudes and opinions agree more with the Bible or with the world’s viewpoint? Over the last week, what actions were driven by fear of some kind? As a believer you have no need to live in fear, but you must rely continually on the Spirit of God who lives within you. Understanding truth from His Word will have a chain reaction, releasing you from the fears connected to Satan’s lies and freeing you to live in God’s love. Ask Him to direct you to truth today.

Read – 1 John 3

What does it say?
Children of God should stop sinning. Their love for one another should be the sign of their new life in Christ.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage gives the test of a true Christian. Followers of Jesus will not habitually sin; in fact, they have a strong desire to resist sin. When a believer does sin, the conviction of the Holy Spirit makes him uncomfortable because he doesn’t want anything to come between him and the Father. The Spirit gives strength to live a righteous life and the ability to show genuine love to others. Obeying Christ’s command to love fellow believers is confirmation that a permanent change has taken place in the hearts and minds of those who follow Him.

How should I respond?
How does the thought of disobeying God make you feel? We all sin sometimes, but desiring to please God through obedience is validation that God’s Spirit truly lives within you. What have you said or done this week that did not show the righteousness or love of God? If you struggle with displaying genuine love to someone, pray now for God to set you free from any bitterness, anger, or pride that’s getting in the way. Ask Him to help you mend broken relationships. Whom will you please today, yourself or your Savior?

Read – 1 John 2

What does it say?
Jesus advocates for believers before the Father and is the propitiation for their sins. Living as Jesus lived is evidence of accepting Jesus’ sacrifice as one’s own.

What does it mean?
Just as an attorney goes before a judge for his clients, Jesus advocates on behalf of His followers before the Heavenly Father. He not only pleads for believers, He is their atoning sacrifice, satisfying the payment for sin – a payment He knew no one else could make. With these facts in mind, John urged his readers to live as Jesus lived: loving each other, staying away from willful sin, and obeying God’s Word. No follower of Christ wants to be ashamed when He returns. Being a child of God comes with great privilege and responsibility.

How should I respond?
No one wants to stand before a judge without someone to plead his or her case. Have you accepted Jesus as your advocate? If so, what evidence have you shown of following Him this week? Living as Jesus lived will be seen by how you treat others as well as how you spend your time and money. As Jesus’ life on the earth stood out from the rest of the world – so should yours. Throughout the day, be aware of words or actions that conflict with the attitudes Jesus modeled in Scripture. If you were accused of being a Christian today, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

Read – Psalms 125-128

What does it say?
Those who trust in the Lord cannot be shaken. They will sow with tears and reap with joy. Their children are a reward from the Lord. The man who fears Him is blessed.

What does it mean?
This section of the Songs of Ascents describes the security, joy, and blessings of God’s chosen people. Psalm 125 reflects on the security God provided for those who trusted Him. The safety they felt entering the fortress of Jerusalem was symbolic of how God’s care surrounded them as a nation. Psalm 126 remembers how God turned tears of anguish into songs of joy when He delivered Israel from the Assyrians (1 Kings 18-19). Psalm 127, written by King Solomon, considers the blessings of a godly home and the joy of children. The writer of Psalm 128 contemplates the joyful work and blessed home of the person who feared and obeyed the Lord. As worshippers ascended the hills of Jerusalem, these psalms reminded them to fear, trust, and obey the Lord in every aspect of their lives – as citizens, family members, and workers.

How should I respond?
If the people you interact with every day were asked to say a few words concerning you as a parent, child, sibling, employee, boss, student, or citizen – what would they say? How you function within each role says a lot about you as a follower of Jesus Christ. Which aspect of your life isn’t fully reflecting the joy of trusting and obeying the Lord? Think through what changes you need to make at home, work, or school so that you can better glorify God.

Read – Psalms 120-124

What does it say?
The psalmist called on the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and Earth, to be Israel’s help in distress and to mercifully watch over them. Going to the house of the Lord brought joy.

What does it mean?
Psalms 120-134 are the Songs of Ascents (Degrees). These psalms of David, Solomon, and most likely Hezekiah were sung on the journey to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. As the Israelite families looked up toward the hills around Jerusalem, they literally lifted their eyes to the Lord, whose presence dwelt in the Temple of the holy city. They could walk with confidence because the One they worshipped and appealed to in any kind of distress was the Creator of everything – their Helper, Keeper, and Defender. The opportunity to publicly worship the one true, living God brought tremendous joy.

How should I respond?
Where do you turn for help? No problem is too difficult for the Lord. He is waiting for you to look to Him for everything you need. One way to keep your eyes on the Lord as your Helper, Keeper, and Defender is by regularly attending church. Corporate worship is a great source of strength for the coming week as you gather with fellow believers to praise and worship God and to encourage one another. Do you eagerly await the opportunity to publicly worship with your church family? Focusing your thoughts during the week on God’s character and past faithfulness will help you to joyfully anticipate giving Him public praise.

Read – 1 John 1

What does it say?
John proclaimed Jesus Christ as the Word of life and the light of believers. He is faithful to purify those who ask Him for the forgiveness of their sins.

What does it mean?
John’s first letter calls believers back to fundamental truths of the Christian life – sin must be acknowledged, confessed, and forgiven in order for a believer to remain in fellowship with Christ and with other believers. The ability to recognize sin comes from living each day in the light of God’s Word which reveals truth just as physical light reveals what is around it. Anyone who denies that he has sinned calls God a liar. God is able to forgive sin based on the sinless blood of Christ shed on the Cross. Even more amazing is His faithfulness to forgive each sin that is humbly and honestly confessed.

How should I respond?
Daily fellowship with the Lord isn’t something that has to wait until you’re in Heaven; it occurs as you yield to God’s Spirit moment by moment. How would you describe your Christian life – a walk in the light or a walk in and out of the dark? 1 John 1:9 is the believer’s bar of soap, so to speak. When you live in obedience to God’s Word, He’ll convict you of sin so you can confess it honestly and enjoy daily fellowship with Him as well as with other believers. What sinful thought or attitude do you need to confess to the Lord? Claim 1 John 1:9 right now. God is always faithful to forgive.

Read – 2 Peter 3

What does it say?
Peter predicted that scoffers would deny the return of Christ. Believers should live in light of God’s final judgment and His promise of a new Heaven and a new Earth.

What does it mean?
Scoffers ridicule a foundational truth of the Christian faith: Christ will return for His people. Noah also faced scoffers – people who willfully refused to believe that God would intervene in worldwide judgment of evil. The coming day of judgment will result in the destruction of the heavens and the earth by fire. Why is there a delay? God is patient, giving time for lost sinners to repent. Believers have God’s promise of a new Heaven and a new Earth to motivate them to live blameless lives and be ready for Christ’s return.

How should I respond?
Nearly every generation of Christians have believed that they were living in the last days. We definitely live in a time when people commonly ridicule anything related to believing in Jesus or living by God’s standards in the Bible. In what way do people who mock Christian beliefs influence your thoughts and attitudes? Christ’s return may not be immediate but it is imminent. What needs to change in your conduct this week so that you will be blameless when He returns? Whether Jesus comes back this year, next year, or fifty years from now, He is coming! Are you ready?

Read – 2 Peter 2

What does it say?
Peter warned his readers of false teachers, describing them as deceitful, rebellious, immoral, and greedy.

What does it mean?
In a warning to believers, Peter denounced teachers who were using false stories with false promises to exploit anyone who would listen. These false teachers knew how to twist the teachings of the Scriptures – but they did not know the Holy God of the Scriptures. God never changes His mind about sin. Judgment comes to those who reject truth – just as it came for the angels who rebelled, for the ungodly people during the flood in Noah’s day, and for the lawless residents of Sodom and Gomorrah.

How should I respond?
How well do you know the truths of Scripture? God’s truth is not based on man’s opinions, clever words, or spiritual experiences. You must compare what others are teaching with what God says in His Word. You can look at nature and humanity and know the Lord as your Creator – the incredible artist and designer of everything that exists. But to know and follow Christ more fully, you must study God’s Word that He put into the hearts and minds of men who loved Him. Taking part in a Bible study or joining a small group at church will give you more opportunities to read and discuss Scripture. How will you better prepare yourself to discern truth from error?

Read – 2 Peter 1

What does it say?
Believers are to make every effort to add goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love to their faith.

What does it mean?
Peter reminded the Christians throughout the Roman Empire that God had supplied everything they needed to live godly lives, leaving no excuse for slackness in their spiritual growth. As the believer yields to the Holy Spirit within and renews his mind through God’s Word, godly character will become increasingly evident. To those who think the Bible is merely man’s ideas, Peter declared that the writers of Scripture were guided by the Holy Spirit as they wrote exactly what God wanted them to record.

How should I respond?
What does God’s Word mean to you? Are your ideas about character or morals based on what is socially acceptable, or do you desire to know and please God by following what He says in His Word? Reading the Bible regularly, memorizing Scripture, praying, and developing relationships with other believers will transform your thoughts, attitudes, and actions. As you develop a deeper consciousness of God and apply the Scriptures, you will increasingly possess the inward qualities that will keep you growing in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. What will you do to move forward in your Christian life today?

Read – 1 Peter 5

What does it say?
Church leaders were given instructions on how to shepherd God’s people. Believers must show humility to one another, resist the devil, and stand firm in their faith.

What does it mean?
Peter described the personal qualities and responsibilities of spiritual leaders. As shepherds of God’s people, pastors are to serve as overseers, not because they must, but because they are willing. Instead of lording it over those under their care, they should lead by godly example. Those pastors who are faithful will receive the crown of glory when the Chief Shepherd returns. All believers should submit to God’s care and resist the devil who “prowls around” to cause suffering and despair. But the God of all grace stands by to deliver, restore, and strengthen His people.

How should I respond?
A pastor has a high calling and the challenging responsibilities of shepherding God’s people and preaching His Word. He is called to lead those under his care by being an example while continuing to grow in his own personal relationship with Jesus Christ. What can you do to encourage your pastor in his God-appointed role? Most pastors also have a wife and family to support and lead. How often do you pray for protection and guidance for your pastor and his family? As one of God’s people, you also have a shepherding role to fulfill. What are you doing daily to be an example so that you can lead others to follow Christ?

Read – Psalm 119:161-176

What does it say?
Even though the psalmist was persecuted without cause, he found peace in God’s law. He asked God to hear his plea to live so he could sing the praises of God’s righteous commands.

What does it mean?
Throughout Psalm 119 the writer’s statements and requests are basically the same. He loved, trusted, and obeyed God’s Word; he was opposed by those who ignored God’s Word; he pleaded with God for deliverance; and he praised the Lord regardless. In the midst of chaos and despite persecution, the psalmist was determined to live obediently, pray fervently, and praise continually. The peace and joy that he found by knowing and loving God’s Word above anything else is certainly beyond human understanding – it’s supernatural.

How should I respond?
Our modus operandi as church-going followers of Christ is to ask friends and small group members to pray for us when things are difficult, and then we offer a quick praise to the Lord when the issue is resolved. In the meantime, we’re often guilty of worry or manipulation instead of fervent prayer. In what situation have you identified with the psalmist’s cries for help as we’ve studied Psalm 119? Will you follow his example to live obediently, pray fervently, and praise God continually – regardless of what you’re facing and how long you have to wait for the Lord to act? Your circumstances might just drive you deeper into God’s Word than you’ve been before, giving you an intense love for Scripture and supplying you with supernatural peace and joy. Don’t stop praying to the Lord and obeying His Word, and don’t wait to praise Him.

Read – Psalm 119:129-160

What does it say?
The Lord is righteous; His words are true, trustworthy and eternal. The writer shed tears over disobedience to God’s law, entrusting his life to God’s promises and compassion.

What does it mean?
Throughout this section the writer stated what he knew to be true about God and His Word: the Lord is righteous and eternal; His promises are true; His laws are right; and His instructions can be trusted. The psalmist’s prayer and position were in direct opposition to those who ignored God’s commands. He had reason to be confident though. His prayer was within God’s will because he asked the Lord to act according to His Word and to His character. Since he had been – and continued to be – obedient to God’s laws and commands, His thoughts and positions were correct.

How should I respond?
Political opinions and conventional morality fluctuate with the prevailing thought of the day, but God and His Word never change. There will come a day when everything God says in the Bible will be accomplished and proven true. Until then, we each have to decide whether or not we’ll go against the current tide and take a stand on God’s Word. Are you grieved over our nation’s disregard for the truths revealed in Scripture? What opinion, decision, or political position do you need to submit to the authority of God’s righteous, eternal Word? God is right, regardless of what society thinks. You can confidently entrust your life to His promises when you choose to live by His commands.

Read – 1 Peter 4

What does it say?
Peter instructed believers to resist sinful behavior and live for God. He encouraged them to persevere and rejoice when they suffer for being followers of Christ.

What does it mean?
In this chapter Peter returned to his discussion of suffering and godly living. He reminded believers that Christ suffered and died for sin so that those who receive Him are able to end sinful behavior and live for righteousness. Christians should spend the rest of their time on the earth for God’s purposes, investing in the lives of others with whatever gifts God has given them. However, even as believers try to live purposeful lives, they will suffer insults and painful trials because of the name of Christ. But God will use those trials to bless them and enable them to live even more holy lives.

How should I respond?
Does it surprise you when others think you are bigoted and intolerant because of your faith? As Peter explained earlier, Christ left you an example to follow. Instead of being defensive or feeling discouraged, rejoice and continue to do what God has called you to do. God uses trials and even insults to purify and strengthen your faith. In what specific ways has He provided exactly what you need – at just the right time? Although it’s not always easy to respond gently and with grace, commit yourself to your “faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Read – 1 Peter 3

What does it say?
Peter encouraged wives and husbands to respect each other. Even in suffering, believers have an opportunity to testify of God’s grace.

What does it mean?
Peter gave God’s directives for the husband and wife relationship. For the Christian wife, submission is a deep confidence in her heart that God is in control. Her desire is to be the woman God wants her to be. As she applies God’s Word to her life as a wife and acts in faith upon His principles, her obedience to God and submission to her husband create inward beauty – a gentle and quiet spirit. The husband, in turn, sees his leadership role as one of love and respect and understanding of the needs of his wife. He communicates to his wife that she is important and that he values her opinions.

How should I respond?
As Creator, God designed the roles for the husband and wife so that they could work together with the greatest creativity and success. As a wife, God wants to develop in you a submissive attitude toward your husband. As a husband, God wants to develop in you the ability to be the spiritual leader in your family. As you both seek to have a godly home, keep in mind that He knows what is best for you. When you pray today, thank Him for the unique way He works in your lives to help you understand His will for you. Will you commit to study and apply God’s Word as it relates to your role in the home?

Read – 1 Peter 2

What does it say?
The believer’s foundation is Christ, the living Stone. Believers should submit to God-ordained authorities.

What does it mean?
In Chapters 2 and 3, Peter explained one of the greatest principles of godly living – learning how to operate under authority. Responding with the right attitude to God-ordained authority as declared in His Word is an evidence of true faith. Jesus Christ who suffered unjustly is the believer’s example – He operated under total submission to His heavenly Father, the Righteous Judge. God works supernaturally on behalf of believers who respond with respectful attitudes to those He has placed over them.

How should I respond?
Every person has to live under some type of authority. The way you respond to that authority has a profound effect on your success and happiness in life. Ask God to show you how you need to change your attitude toward the authorities in your life. Then ask for His grace to respond with the right attitude to your authority. How will God’s Word affect your response this week to your parents, your teachers, or your employer? Be encouraged as you remember that an attitude of submission is an act of faith that pleases God (Matthew 8).

Read – 1 Peter 1

What does it say?
God has given believers new life and a living hope in Christ, enabling them to live holy lives even in the midst of suffering.

What does it mean?
Peter wanted the believers scattered throughout the Roman Empire to be prepared for the persecution that was coming. He encouraged them to focus on their salvation and the inheritance waiting for them in Heaven. No matter what opposition or persecution they experienced, it was not without a purpose. God allows suffering to test, refine, and strengthen the faith of His people. The earthly pain was temporary, but their hope and future with Christ would be forever. Proven faith brings glory to God and enables His people to live godly lives in an ungodly world.

How should I respond?
God has given you the faith to believe Christ, and now He wants to develop your faith so that you will live for Christ. As you try to live for God, you realize that it’s not easy to put away the old way of life and “be holy” – to live as God intends you to live. The trials you face are designed by God to remove the slag of sins that contaminate your character. God’s enduring Word says that the testing of your faith is more precious than the refining of gold. Gold perishes. Faith remains. How are you responding to God’s refining process? Are you resisting or releasing?

Read – James 5

What does it say?
James assured his readers that the Lord hears the cries of the oppressed. He told them to be patient in suffering and to pray in faith.

What does it mean?
James closed his letter to these Jewish believers with words of encouragement about their suffering. Two thoughts rise to the surface: perseverance and prayer. God may correct a wrong immediately, but He often asks His followers to be patient, which compels believers to persist in prayer. Christians are to pray when they are troubled and when they are happy. No situation is too big or insignificant for prayer. Christ stands ready to return and judge those who oppress others. Until then, believers should stand firm and follow the examples of those in Scripture who patiently and powerfully prayed.

How should I respond?
God works through the prayers of His people. It’s not that He needs our prayers, but that He chooses to act upon them in His timing. God could reach down right now and correct whatever wrong is happening in your life. So why doesn’t He? Prayer draws us closer to the Lord, increases our awareness of Him, and gives Him greater glory when the issue is resolved. How is God calling you to persevere today? Pray. Who in your family, church, or neighborhood is sick, troubled, or wandering from God? Pray. The answer may not come immediately, but He is actively working even when you can’t see it.

Read – 1 Chronicles 14

What does it say?
The Lord established David as Israel’s king in Jerusalem. David sought God as he defended Israel, and God gave victories over the Philistines.

What does it mean?
David knew the Lord had made him king. He, with his wives and children, became established as Israel’s royal family. The main focus of David’s energy was God and the nation of Israel. When enemies threatened, David talked to the Lord, listened for His answer, and obeyed His guidance. God gave specific directions and decisive victories in battle, authenticating David’s reign before all the nations. David was the king of Israel, yet he knelt before the Lord as a servant in need of discernment to lead Israel. This prayerful king openly acknowledged the Lord as his authority, defender, and protector

How should I respond?
Prayer is more than verbalizing your daily needs. It is an acknowledgment of who God is and a recognition of your need for wisdom and discernment to handle life’s situations His way. Prayer can be an act of worship when you, as a believer, commit to obey when the answer comes. What is your most pressing prayer need? Ask God how to pray specifically and according to His will for that need. He may give you a verse to pray or remind you of a character trait you need to develop as you trust Him. God answers the prayerful believer who seeks to know and act on God’s specific direction.

Read – Psalm 119:97-128

What does it say?
The psalmist loved and obeyed God’s law – which gave him wisdom, understanding, insight, and light. It kept him from the wrong path and from those who did evil.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage describes many benefits of loving and obeying God’s Word. Having Scripture as the primary resource for his life gave the psalmist an advantage over his enemies, teachers, and elders. Their vast knowledge didn’t equal insight; neither did their age or worldly acumen equate to wisdom or the ability to understand how God was working in the world. It’s not that God revealed everything the writer would ever need to know; but regularly studying God’s laws and commands gave him just enough light for the path immediately ahead of him. It made right and wrong clearly visible and dispelled his deepest fears. He anticipated walking with the Lord to the end of his life, one illuminated step at a time.

How should I respond?
On what resources do you rely? Are you counting on your education to help you reason your way through life? Maybe you’re depending on the advice of a parent or older sibling to guide your choices. Education and practical experience are important, but they don’t guarantee insight or understanding to make wise decisions. The Bible is the only dependable, infallible resource for life. As you obey His Word in one area, God will begin to illuminate your mind with more insight and understanding to guide you (John 7:17). In what situation or relationship do you need God’s wisdom? Search His Word today – He will give you the understanding to know right from wrong and the discernment to determine what’s good from what’s best.

Read – Psalm 119:65-96

What does it say?
The psalmist was afflicted and waited for God’s comfort. He knew that God was faithful and compassionate; he put his hope, trust, and obedience in God’s eternal Word.

What does it mean?
The psalmist had somehow strayed from God and found himself severely persecuted by his enemies. His troubles drove Him to God and to God’s Word, where he was reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness and compassion. The writer came to realize that it was the goodness and faithfulness of God that had allowed his affliction. Without it, he may have remained disobedient to God and unchanged in his character. He looked to the timeless reliability of Scripture to determine his beliefs and responses rather than to his temporary circumstances. Both God and His Word can be trusted.

How should I respond?
We often define God’s faithfulness as immediate deliverance from anything that makes us uncomfortable. However, God might allow distress to come into your life to change your course, mold your character, or bring you back to dependence on Him. The value in any kind of suffering is its ability to make you look outside of yourself. Anything that drives you to God and His Word has merit – even if it’s painful. Where are you currently looking for hope and comfort? Will you allow Scripture to direct your thoughts and emotions? God’s Word is dependable, no matter what situation you’re in today.

Read – 1 Chronicles 11:10-25

What does it say?
David and his Mighty Men extended the kingdom of Israel just as the Lord had promised.

What does it mean?
While David was waiting God’s time to be crowned king of Israel, God was drawing loyal men to serve with him. They accomplished God’s plan with courage and strength. They were skilled warriors – courageous and strong, valiant and honorable. Their loyalty to David was displayed when they risked their lives for him when he longed for water from the well near his childhood home. This gift represented their love and led David to an amazing act of worship before the Lord. Their love for King David and their God-given victories earned them the title of David’s Mighty Men.

How should I respond?
God needs mighty men and women to live for Him and accomplish His plan today, just as in David’s day. On what issue is God calling you to take a stand for Him? He still gives courage to those willing to engage the world on His behalf. Our battle begins on a spiritual level through prayer and works its way into public life. What could it cost you to be known as one who follows Christ? How can you purposely live to honor God at school, work, or with family? It is God who gives the victory. He can enable you to be mighty today, but the decision to live for God’s will or your own plan is yours

Read – 1 Chronicles 11:1-9

What does it say?
David was crowned king of Israel at Hebron and increased in power as he reigned from Jerusalem. The Lord’s presence was with him.

What does it mean?
The waiting was finally over. The Lord had called David to be Israel’s shepherd-king when Samuel anointed him many years before these events. After Saul’s death, David was publicly anointed king of Israel. David was a gifted leader who had helped develop others to lead during his long years on the run. So, he delegated tasks to proven leaders who had been loyal to him. The presence of the Lord was with David as king just as He was with him throughout the years of waiting. As a result, David experienced success and his power increased.

How should I respond?
Walking with the Lord gives the greatest opportunity for a fulfilled life, but there may be some waiting involved. What promise are you waiting for God to fulfill for you? The Lord will always be faithful to do what He has promised, but it may not be immediate. Often, there are things He desires to develop within us that require trusting Him over a period of time. What is your focus while you’re waiting? The skills and character you’ll need in the future are being crafted while you faithfully wait and obey. Will you commit to God today and live each moment in the awareness of His presence?

Read – 1 Chronicles 10

What does it say?
The Lord used the Philistines to bring judgment on Saul. After he died in battle along with his three sons, David became king.

What does it mean?
Samuel’s prophetic words to Saul were coming true. Because of his sin, Saul and his sons died in battle and Israel was taken captive by the Philistines. King Saul was guilty of unfaithfulness to the Lord in three areas. He rebelled and did not keep God’s Word. He consulted a medium for guidance, which was prohibited by God. Also, he failed to inquire of the Lord. The consequences of Saul’s sin had a devastating impact on the nation and his family. The Lord requires faithfulness from those who represent Him.

How should I respond?
What you do matters. What does your faithfulness to God look like in the areas where Saul failed? First, Scripture is a Christian’s final authority for life. Obey God, wait patiently, and trust His Word rather than your own ideas of how to handle a situation. Next, where do you go for guidance when you can’t find specific direction from the Bible? Consulting mediums or spiritists is against God’s will for a believer. Look to see if God has given you a spiritual mentor who loves the Bible and lives according to His Word. Finally, seek God and pray about every decision and situation. There is nothing too small or too big. Your faithfulness to God matters … to you and to those around you.|For further reading, 1 Chronicles 8:1-9:21, 35-44

Read – 1 Chronicles 6:31-49; 9:22-34

What does it say?
The Tabernacle was sustained by chosen, instructed men from the tribe of Levi. God called skilled and gifted people to serve in every aspect of religious life in Jerusalem.

What does it mean?
Picture all the activity in and around Israel’s Tabernacle. Individuals with diversity of ability and responsibility mobilized to accomplish the work of God’s tabernacle service. Some people were highly visible while others worked tirelessly behind the scenes with unity of purpose: to maintain the earthly place where Holy God promised to meet with sinful mankind above the mercy seat, the solid-gold cover on the Ark of the Covenant. The sacrifices they offered pointed to the perfect Lamb of God, the Lord Jesus Christ.

How should I respond?
Today, God calls people to faith in Jesus and leads them to serve Him through the local church. What gift or ability has the Lord given you? Have you found the place He wants you to serve in your church? Just as there was amazing diversity of work in the tabernacle, your church has diverse opportunities for service. Even the task that seems the least significant is vital so that everyone can serve with unity of purpose: to worship God and point others to the Lord Jesus Christ. How can you make yourself available to do the thing that seems “the least” if that is the opportunity God is giving you?|For further reading, 1 Chronicles 6:50-81; 7

Read – 1 Chronicles 5:18-26

What does it say?
Tribes of Israel were faithful to God in a time of war but unfaithful after their victory. God raised up an Assyrian who conquered Israel and took them into captivity.

What does it mean?
Realizing that their best resources were weak and insufficient, Israel cried out to God and trusted in Him as they faced danger. But when life was settled after the victory, they had no great need to press them toward God. Their leaders led them into spiritual apathy and then idolatry. Their relationship with God as the priority in daily life became secondary to other things. Because of their unfaithfulness, God raised up a new enemy who conquered them and took them into captivity.

How should I respond?
God is our helper at all times. He makes it possible to experience peace, even when the life you planned and worked hard to attain changes or crumbles. Loss of a job or an ongoing illness brings the realization of just how weak and insufficient our resources really are. Circumstances sometimes push us to develop a more dedicated life of prayer and trust in God. But good times can also test your relationship with God. When life is going well, how will you continue to be faithful to God? I Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray continually.” Our faithfulness to God depends on it.|For further reading, 1 Chronicles 6:1-30

Read – Psalm 119:33-64

What does it say?
The psalmist asked the Lord to give him understanding and turn his heart toward God’s statutes. He obeyed God’s commands and found comfort in His promises and laws.

What does it mean?
The writer of Psalm 119 understood the importance of reading God’s Word. His desire to know what it said went deeper than learning mere facts about God; He wanted to understand what Scripture meant so he could fulfill its intension in every aspect of his life. As he honored God’s laws, he turned from selfish pursuits and desired to live for purposes that held eternal value. Although obeying God didn’t cause his problems to end, the comfort he found in God’s promises gave him enduring hope.

How should I respond?
What was your motivation for reading this devotion? Were you hoping to solve a problem, to find comfort, or to feel closer to God? While all of those things are good, today’s passage challenges us to read God’s Word in order to act on what it says. Life change begins to take place as you gain understanding of Scripture, heed its warnings, and obey its commands. The results fall in place like toppling a line of dominoes – you grow closer to God, you learn how to solve various problems, you find comfort and hope, etc. Ask God to give you understanding and eternal perspective as you read and study His Word, and then act on the truth He reveals. Reading the Bible is more than a good habit – it is transforming.

Read – Psalm 119:1-32

What does it say?
Those who meditate on God’s Word and live according to its commands find counsel, strength, joy, and freedom.

What does it mean?
The sole theme of Psalm 119, the longest prayer in the Bible, is the Word of God. An acrostic psalm, it uses eight stanzas for each of the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet to exalt Scripture. The synonyms for God’s Word in today’s passage (law, precepts, statutes, commands, and decrees) express different aspects of His Word. In addition, several facets of God’s work in the believer’s life are addressed (cleansing, instructing, strengthening, and defending). The psalmist’s deep love for God’s law led to his commitment to internalize its contents. He didn’t find God’s Word to be restrictive; rather it offered the freedom of a life without regrets and was a continual source of joy.

How should I respond?
People often view the Bible as a book that limits their freedom to do as they wish, but the only thing that Scripture restricts is sin. It is sin, along with its consequences and guilt, that confines us (2 Peter 2:19). God’s Word is a roadmap to a rewarding life and a foundation on which to build a life free of regret. Are you resolved to know and follow God’s ways? Make a commitment to read the Bible each day and meditate on what it means and how you should respond to its warnings and instructions. Ask God for a passion for His Word. God’s Word is truth which gives freedom to the soul (John 8:32).

Read – Hebrews 12:1-13

What does it say?
Believers should throw off sin, fix their eyes on Jesus, and accept God’s discipline as true sons.

What does it mean?
The author compared living a life of faith in Jesus to running a race. It’s imperative for Christians to focus on Jesus during this race because He is both the goal and the source of encouragement for the Christian life. Believers are to get rid of distractions and sin, just as a runner gets rid of extra weight in order to run more efficiently. Sometimes it takes God’s discipline to remove sin hindering a believer’s performance. God loves His children and wants them to be holy, as He is. Even though it’s painful, discipline is proof of legitimacy. The end results are righteousness and peace.

How should I respond?
If you ever wanted proof that following Jesus isn’t always easy, here it is. A runner trains for a marathon to meet a goal, not because it’s easy. The aim of our long, tough “race” is to reflect God’s holiness. What sin or distraction is weighing you down and keeping you from living more effectively for Christ? Is your goal to know Him better so that you reflect His character? If not, God loves you enough to discipline you. He may cause you temporary pain in order to keep you on track. Get rid of anything unhealthy that keeps you from focusing on Christ. As you go out today, remember – you’re in training!

Read – Hebrews 11

What does it say?
The writer recounts great heroes of faith from Israel’s history.

What does it mean?
Faith is defined as being confident that what we hope for is going to happen and being certain that things we cannot see are reality. Faith believes what God says because of who He is. The first step of faith is to understand that God created the universe and all that’s in it. If God is Creator, certainly He has authority to be Lord. This chapter is filled with names of those who chose to trust God and act in obedience to what He said. They were just regular men and women with real challenges and weaknesses. They are not remembered because they were great people but because they possessed great faith.

How should I respond?
Blockbuster superhero movies open to huge success every summer. We love the idea of people being the best version of humanity and doing extraordinary things. The lives of God’s superheroes are evidence that God is trustworthy in any and every circumstance. In what area of your life is God urging you to display great faith? Which person in today’s passage is an encouragement to your faith in your current situation? As you trust God and obey His Word, your faith will grow – and you’ll become the best version of yourself. Who will remember you as their hero of faith?

Read – Hebrews 10

What does it say?
Christ’s sacrifice allows believers to enter God’s presence and experience His faithfulness.

What does it mean?
The writer of Hebrews has reached a crescendo in his argument that Jesus is both High Priest and Mediator of a better covenant than Israel had under Moses. He now shifts the focus to how these facts should affect the habits of a believer. First, spending time in the presence of God through prayer and reading His Word develops steadfast faith. Christ’s followers are also to spend time together, encouraging each other to avoid deliberate sin and to look for opportunities to show the love of Christ by doing good deeds. Finally, the habit of reflecting on God’s past faithfulness produces perseverance. Believers should constantly move forward in their faith. Those who live by faith move forward, not back.

How should I respond?
We’re bombarded with advice on how to develop better eating and exercise habits. Experts say that it takes only three weeks to change a habit. Still, it always seems easier to develop bad habits rather than good ones. What good spiritual habits from today’s passage do you practice? Which ones do you need to foster? A healthy body requires healthy habits. The same is true if you want to maintain a healthy faith. Choose something from today’s passage and commit to doing it for three weeks. You’ll have a new habit, and your spiritual health will flourish!

Read – Hebrews 9

What does it say?
The writer compared the earthly and heavenly sanctuaries along with the sacrifices made in them.

What does it mean?
God is holy, and people are sinful. A blood sacrifice is required for sinful people to enter the presence of a holy God. Throughout the Old Testament, the high priest would offer the blood of animals for Israel’s sins. These sacrifices covered their sins but couldn’t remove them or give the worshipper a clear conscience. They were just a shadow of the true sacrifice, the blood of Jesus Christ. The person who claims Jesus’ sacrifice as his or her own can live in freedom, waiting for His return. Forgiveness of sin comes only through the blood of Jesus.

How should I respond?
At some point in life we’ve all been labeled: cool, geek, math nerd, soccer mom, etc. But no matter what group you fall into, God categorizes all people as sinners in need of forgiveness. Does the mention of blood in the Bible make you uneasy? Thinking about the blood Jesus shed on the Cross in payment for your sin should flood your heart with gratitude and a desire to please Him. Have you accepted God’s forgiveness for your sin based on Jesus’ sacrifice? If so, you have another label … child of God!

Read – Hebrews 8

What does it say?
The New Covenant, mediated by Christ, is superior to the Old Covenant, mediated by Moses.

What does it mean?
This group of Jewish Christians longed for the comfort of the familiar – the same tabernacle, laws, and sacrifices. The writer of Hebrews has arrived at the main point of his letter: the New Covenant is superior to their old way of life. The law under Moses was written on stone tablets and required strict obedience. The New Covenant is internalized, written on the heart of each believer and unconditionally based on God’s grace, not one’s ability to keep the law. The first covenant is obsolete; it was time to move forward.

How should I respond?
Under which covenant are you living? Striving to keep the Old Covenant is an attempt to gain God’s acceptance by what you do externally: volunteering, giving money, or simply attending church. There’s a better way. Entering into a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ isn’t about what you do, but about what Jesus did on the Cross. Are God’s laws written on your mind, giving you knowledge and direction about His will? Is God’s law written on your heart, giving you the desire to follow His will? As you follow His will, the Holy Spirit will urge you to move ahead in areas of your faith that need greater maturity.

Read – Psalms 117-118

What does it say?
In Psalm 117, all people are called to praise God for His loyal love and His enduring truth. Psalm 118 speaks of the vital stone in God’s building, rejected by men but chosen by the Lord.

What does it mean?
Psalm 118 is a messianic psalm that looks forward to Jesus Christ who perfectly demonstrated God’s truth and love described in Psalm 117. God’s people can praise His unfailing love and faithfulness and His enduring truth. As the Lord Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds praised Him, reciting Psalm 118:25-26: “Hosanna [Save us]! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord” (Mark 11). Later that week, Jesus applied verses 23 and 24 to Himself – the Stone the builders rejected was the One chosen by God. However, the Jewish leaders rejected Jesus. They had no idea that they were looking at their long-awaited Messiah and King – God’s love and truth embodied in the Person of Jesus Christ.

How should I respond?
Two thousand years later, reactions to Jesus remain the same. Some have trusted Him for their salvation while others have rejected Him. Which group are you in? Have you experienced the unfailing love of Jesus Christ? How have you seen His truth revealed in your heart through Scripture and the teaching of the Holy Spirit? As a believer, God’s love and truth now resides within you. Look at people today through His eyes. Only the truth found in Christ can set them free from the power of sin. He loves them deeply, just as He loves you. Who will you tell today about His unfailing love and faithfulness?

Read – Psalms 115-116

What does it say?
The man-made idols of the nations were lifeless, but the God of Heaven was Israel’s help and shield. The psalmist praised God’s grace, righteousness, and compassion.

What does it mean?
These psalms were traditionally sung by Israel at Passover. These passages reminded God’s people that they were different from the surrounding nations because their God was the Creator of Heaven and Earth. All glory belongs to Him now and forever. His love and faithfulness should have motivated them to trust and obey Him completely. Jesus sang Psalm116 along with His disciples at His Last Supper, knowing that the time of His death was near. He lifted up “the cup of salvation,” and a short time later He graciously and compassionately completed the work God had given Him to do by His willingness to die for the sins of the world on the Cross.

How should I respond?
In current society, there appears to be an all-out effort to remove any traces of God – as revealed in Scripture – from the government, schools, and justice system. You can’t change the world, but God can change you. Believers should be different because our God is Creator, Savior, Lord, and will one day reign on the earth as King. Because of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, you can be free from the fear of death. In what ways have you responded to Him in trust and obedience? How can you show your gratitude for His grace, righteousness, and compassion today?

Read – Hebrews 7

What does it say?
The priesthood of Jesus is compared with that of Melchizedek.

What does it mean?
The person of Melchizedek is a mysterious figure in the Old Testament. He was both the king and priest of Salem, but there is no record of either his birth or his death. Scripture does say that Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek, and he, in turn, blessed Abraham. Jesus is a priest in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron and the Levitical priests. Jesus is both King and Priest, superior to earthly priests in every way. Because His priesthood is permanent, holy, blameless, pure and perfect, He is able to “save completely” any and all who come to God through Him.| How should I respond?
We live in a fast-paced society. Americans seem to want everything either mobile or to go. But some things require us to slow down and take a deeper look. When was the last time you stopped to think about the character traits of Christ and praise Him for who He is? Jesus is able to “save completely” and meet the needs in your life because of who He is. Read verses 24-28 again, focusing on the unique character of Christ. Before you ask God to bless your busy day, slow down and meditate on the only One who could take the punishment for your sin. He is worthy of our praise, both publicly and privately.

Read – Hebrews 5:11-6:20

What does it say?
The author challenged his readers to leave the elementary teachings of Scripture and go on to spiritual maturity in Christ.

What does it mean?
The writer addressed the spiritually arrested condition that was rampant among these Hebrew believers. They need to move beyond the foundational doctrines of faith. It’s not a command to know more but to apply what they have already learned and build upon those truths. Greater spiritual maturity should be the goal of all Christians, no matter what their stage of development. It’s impossible to remain a sluggish believer when anchored in God’s Word and acting in faith on His promises.

How should I respond?
It’s sad when a child doesn’t grow physically, mentally, or emotionally; the same is true when a believer doesn’t mature in his or her faith. Spiritual maturity isn’t in the knowing but in the doing. In what area of your life do you need to do what God has revealed in His Word? In which of the doctrines listed at the beginning of this passage are you ready to move on to greater maturity? Be careful not to become sluggish or satisfied with the status quo in your spiritual life. There is always more to know about God’s Word and His character. Which truth will you act on today?

Read – Hebrews 4:14-5:10

What does it say?
Christ, the great High Priest, is compared to Aaron, the first high priest.

What does it mean?
The high priest was appointed by God to make intercession and atonement for Israel. He was able to identify with the people in their struggle against sin because he, too, was human. The priest couldn’t overlook sin in God’s people nor deal with it in a harsh manner. The fact that he had to deal with his own weaknesses first brought compassion and patience. Jesus, however, can identify forever with mankind as a better High Priest because He faced the same temptations – yet was without sin. Rather than make atonement for sin, He became the atonement for all sin for all time. Jesus is uniquely qualified to mediate on behalf of all believers with God the Father.

How should I respond?
The desire to connect and identify with one another has exploded the use of social media. The more “likes” you gain on your online status, the more you feel understood. Long before Facebook and Twitter, Christ understood everything about you. There is nothing you have or will ever face that He hasn’t already conquered. With what situation do you need to approach the throne of grace? Jesus is waiting compassionately to talk to God on your behalf. What is your status with Him today?

Read – Hebrews 4:1-13

What does it say?
God promises rest for His people.

What does it mean?
Entering God’s rest is explained by an illustration from Israel’s past. To Israel’s forefathers, the Promised Land represented God’s rest from wandering in the desert. However, the unbelieving Israelites didn’t enter God’s rest due to lack of faith in His promise. The wavering Hebrews reading this letter were encouraged to find rest through faith, which brings present and eternal peace with God. Salvation not only gives peace with God, it also brings the peace of God to deal with everyday life. The Word of God is the agent that pinpoints the causes of unrest: lack of trust and disobedience.

How should I respond?
Stress has become part of the American culture. However, anxiety is an indicator that you’re not resting in God. As you read Scripture, what attitudes in your mind and heart has God uncovered? In what current situation do you need the peace of God? Trusting His promises and obeying His commands bring rest. Have you made peace with God by placing your faith in Jesus Christ? If so, you can experience God’s rest and peace today and look forward to future rest in Heaven.

Read – Hebrews 3

What does it say?
Jesus is compared to Moses and is declared to be greater. The readers are encouraged to fix their thoughts on Jesus and warned against the sin of unbelief.

What does it mean?
Some Jewish Christians in the early church were torn between clinging to the rituals of Judaism and going on to full faith in Jesus Christ. Rather than turning back, these early believers needed to “fix [their] thoughts on Jesus,” stay on course, and move forward in their faith. Only then would they understand that Jesus was the fulfillment of everything God said through the Law of Moses. Choosing to believe anything else was choosing disbelief in what God declared to be true. Either their unbelief was a product of the evil in their hearts, or evil was the result of their unbelief. The deceptive nature of sin hardens hearts to understanding truth.

How should I respond?
What you choose to think about will impact your decisions and behavior. Our senses are constantly bombarded with subtle lies from Satan that can slowly influence our beliefs. So how do you “fix your thoughts on Jesus” and protect your heart from hardening? It’s as practical as starting each day by reading God’s Word and talking with Him throughout the day about every detail. Choose friends and music that direct your thoughts toward God and what honors Him. Where are you getting off course in your faith? Determine to think about Christ today and make a course correction.

Read – 2 Kings 12

What does it say?
Joash followed God’s Law while Jehoiada was alive and instituted a plan for the repair of the temple. Fearful of attack, he sent sacred temple items to bribe the Syrian king.

What does it mean?
Joash was faithful to God and prospered during the years that he was influenced and guided by Jehoiada the High Priest. He successfully accomplished the repair of the temple and the restoration of the worship of God. However, after Jehoiada’s death, ungodly leaders induced Joash to abandon God and worship idols (2 Chron. 24). Instead of turning to God for deliverance when threatened by the Syrian king, Joash panicked and sent sacred objects from the temple as a bribe. God’s Word and His purposes for Joash had never become a vital part of the fiber of his life.

How should I respond?
God’s Word needs to be deeply rooted in the believer’s heart and life in order to avoid corrupt influences. Like Joash, many young people walk the line set out for them by their parents or godly leaders while they are under their influence. But at some point in life, believers must take ownership of how they’re going to live their lives. How are you taking responsibility for your personal relationship with Christ? Do you follow God’s Word because your minister or parents say it’s right? Or have you come to the point that you can say with conviction: “I am doing this because God says it is right and good … His Word is my standard for living.”