11-Feb-24

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Read – Job 25-26

What does it say?
Bildad questions how any man can be righteous before God, who has dominion over everything. Job talks about man’s frailty and God’s power over His creation.

What does it mean?
This short exchange between Bildad and Job focuses on the power and majesty of God compared to man’s insignificance. In Bildad’s last words to Job, he tried to convey man’s complete unworthiness to question God’s justice. Job’s sarcastic response conveys how unhelpful Bildad’s words were at such a difficult time. Bildad chose to further humiliate his friend rather than encourage him in his frustration and despair. Job’s response shows an understanding that God’s actions and power are incomprehensible.

How should I respond?
Our view of God is limited. We tend to think of Him in light of our current circumstances. We see God as either loving or just, but it’s difficult to understand that He is both, and so much more. How have your personal experiences skewed your thoughts about God? The best way to broaden your understanding is a commitment to study Scripture daily. Dig into His Word and ask God to reveal truths about Himself. Changing how you view the Lord will change how you see yourself and everyone with whom you come into contact.

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10-Feb-24

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Read – Job 23-24

What does it say?
Although he was terrified of what else God might have in his future, Job knew he would be delivered if he could find God and plead his innocence in person.

What does it mean?
God’s comments about Job are evidence of the close relationship they shared (Job 1:8). Nothing about Job’s character had changed, yet he felt as if a chasm had been placed between him and the Lord. But despite ominous circumstances and gripping fear, Job maintained his innocence as he laid out the case for God’s judgment on those who rebel against Him. Because he had enjoyed such close fellowship with the Lord, Job understood His character – God’s justice is certain, even if it seems delayed. So if Job deserved God’s righteous judgment, why was he still alive?

How should I respond?
Emotions are powerful. Anxiety and fear can rob your appetite and steal your sleep. You may be terrified of what else could go wrong and why God hasn’t already shown up to fix things. Such draining emotions can alter your sense of reality, creating a feeling of distance from the Lord. We know from Scripture, however, that God never changes and He never leaves us (Hebrews 13:5-8). Like Job, find strength by reminding yourself of what you know to be true. Ask Jesus to give you peace of mind to govern any turmoil in your heart. God created you with emotions, but never intended them to rule over you.

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09-Feb-24

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Read – Job 20-21

What does it say?
Zophar describes the future of the godless as filled with disgrace and disaster. But Job questions why God allows the wicked to live in prosperity and die in peace.

What does it mean?
Job saw the injustice of his own suffering compared to the seemingly long and peaceful lives of those who renounced God. He could not rectify Zophar’s speech regarding God’s punishment of wickedness with reality. If God is just, why did He allow wicked people to prosper while he suffered unimaginable pain? At the same time, Job recognized the limits of his understanding compared to God’s. Job was willing to accept that he didn’t fully understand God’s ways and pointed out that neither did his advisors.

How should I respond?
As soon as children can talk, they start asking questions; that’s how they learn and mature. The same is true of our spiritual growth. God is not afraid of or angered by our questions. Questions are fuel for spiritual maturity; they prompt us to seek answers. Thinking we have all of the answers, like Job’s friends, is misguided theology. What questions do you have for God? Honestly admit your questions to the Lord, and then dig into His Word to see what it says on the matter. Our finite thinking means we can’t possibly understand everything that God allows (Isaiah 55:8-9). But the more you learn about Him in Scripture, the more you’ll trust His character and understand His ways.|Further Reading: Job 22

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08-Feb-24

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Read – Job 18-19

What does it say?
Bildad concludes that a person in Job’s present condition must be evil. Job maintained his innocence and proclaimed God as both his oppressor and his Redeemer.

What does it mean?
Bildad tried to jolt Job into repentance by describing the fate of the wicked, which in his mind perfectly summarized Job’s current state. Job’s reply marks the depth of his despair followed by his greatest proclamation of God. At this, his lowest point, Job firmly believed that God had come against him and withheld justice. At the same time he ached for the day that God would stand as his Defender and tell the world of Job’s innocence. Job’s deepest despair inspired his deepest faith. No matter what God had allowed, Job was certain that only God could deliver and vindicate him.

How should I respond?
What allows a person to face life’s deepest despair with an equally deep faith? Recognizing the Lord for who He is – the only secure shelter during life’s roughest storms. Each of us must choose to either draw closer in faith or turn away from Him in anger. Allowing Christ to change your life prior to those painful moments makes turning to Him instinctive. That kind of trust floods your mind with peace and your heart with joy, which glorifies the Lord. How can you praise God today regardless of your circumstances? Will you join Job in declaring, “My Redeemer lives”?

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07-Feb-24

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Read – Job 17

What does it say?
Job declared that as a result of all he had lost, his spirit was broken. Job cried out to God for relief and expressed that his only hope was the grave.

What does it mean?
God had allowed Satan to take everything and everyone away from Job. All he had left was his physical existence, which was miserable and seemed to be coming to an end. Still, Job held strongly to his innocence and poured out his heart to God. The decimation of his plans for the future caused Job to be completely broken as he sank into depression. With every dream shattered, he saw no hope but to accept whatever future God had for him, even if meant a lonely grave.

How should I respond?
Life seldom turns out the way you think it will. We tend to cling to our own plans until we reach the end of our rope. God, however, is in the business of using broken people who are unconditionally surrendered to Him. Trading our own ideas for the unknown can seem terrifying when life throws us a curve ball. Surrender requires faith that God can make something good out of our shattered dreams. What future plans do you need to release to the Lord? As followers of Jesus, He alone is our hope. Are you willing to surrender to God in the same way that Jesus did saying, “Not my will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42)?

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06-Feb-24

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Read – Job 15-16

What does it say?
Eliphaz accused Job of being proud and made a case that Job deserved his lot because of his wickedness. Job responded to those who came to comfort him.

What does it mean?
Because Job knew his faith in God hadn’t faltered, his friends’ accusations were not comforting, but insulting. Job was distressed, humiliated, and despised by his community; relief was nowhere in sight. He believed God had caused his distress, although he couldn’t understand the reasons. Still, Job believed that God heard his cries and saw that his heart was humble. He firmly believed that God’s faithfulness was unwavering. Job’s only comfort was his belief that God could be trusted to intercede for him.

How should I respond?
What Job believed to be true, we know to be true. Jesus Himself intercedes for us from His throne in Heaven. Followers of Christ should pray for one another and offer comfort when we can. Our efforts, however, are limited by our humanity. Only Jesus – God with us – can intercede for us perfectly and continually (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). Only the Holy Spirit – God in us – can provide perfect peace, comfort, and guidance through the storms of life (John 14:16, 26). What situation is causing you to grieve? To whom have you turned for comfort? Talk to God – there is no lasting comfort but His.

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05-Feb-24

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Read – Job 14

What does it say?
Job contemplated the brevity and difficulty of human life. He saw no hope for relief or restoration before his death.

What does it mean?
Complete and utter distress caused Job to look back on his previously blessed life as short and pointless. He viewed death as an end to his pain. Even though Job didn’t seem to have full knowledge concerning the resurrection of the body and the promise of Heaven, he knew God well enough to understand that He is able to do anything. Job briefly wondered about the possibilities of renewed life without misery or resurrection after death. He didn’t allow himself to wonder for long, though, before he blamed God for taking away any hope, dismissed the thought of recovering from his misery, and believed that only death could bring relief.

How should I respond?
As Christians, eternal life is our greatest hope and at times, our only comfort. What wonders await us once we are in the presence of the Lord forever, away from sin and sadness! Until then, we experience pain, loss, and loneliness; sometimes we struggle to maintain hope in the Lord. We must remember that God is able to do more than we could ever imagine (Eph. 3:20). During dark times, what He wants most is for us to trust Him and wait for Him. In what area of your life has your hope in God diminished? Talk to God in these moments, and ask for grace while you place hope in Him.

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Beyond Belief: The Demons in the Graveyard

2024-02-04

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we will continue our study of many of the miracles of Jesus during his earthly ministry. The purpose of the study is for us to never lose sight of the power of Jesus in our lives even today. There are no problems the people of the first century encountered which are not also present today. Thus, it’s a good idea to never lose sight of what Jesus can do in our lives.

Luke 8:26-37 (NKJV) Then they sailed to the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. 27 And when He stepped out on the land, there met Him a certain man from the city who had demons for a long time. And he wore no clothes, nor did he live in a house but in the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, fell down before Him, and with a loud voice said, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You, do not torment me!” 29 For He had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For it had often seized him, and he was kept under guard, bound with chains and shackles; and he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the wilderness.30 Jesus asked him, saying, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion,” because many demons had entered him. 31 And they begged Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss. 32 Now a herd of many swine was feeding there on the mountain. So they begged Him that He would permit them to enter them. And He permitted them. 33 Then the demons went out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd ran violently down the steep place into the lake and drowned. 34 When those who fed them saw what had happened, they fled and told it in the city and in the country. 35 Then they went out to see what had happened, and came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 36 They also who had seen it told them by what means he who had been demon-possessed was healed. 37 Then the whole multitude of the surrounding region of the Gadarenes asked Him to depart from them, for they were seized with great fear. And He got into the boat and returned.

  1. The isolation of sin

Vs 27 And when He stepped out on the land, there met Him a certain man from the city who had demons for a long time. And he wore no clothes, nor did he live in a house but in the tombs.

  • This was a man who had been so decimated by the power of demons in his life, he had been driven from all connection to others: “This is the goal of Satan in our lives, to disconnect us from the influence of others so we can be controlled by him”
  • Demon possession was not an uncommon occurrence, though this time it was particularly intense
  • Sin in our lives has this same effect, the more we let it get a foothold in our lives, the easier it is for to be isolated from righteousness

Vs 29b For it had often seized him, and he was kept under guard, bound with chains and shackles; and he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the wilderness.

  1. The power of God over all

Vss 30-33 Jesus asked him, saying, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion,” because many demons had entered him. 31 And they begged Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss. 32 Now a herd of many swine was feeding there on the mountain. So they begged Him that He would permit them to enter them. And He permitted them. 33 Then the demons went out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd ran violently down the steep place into the lake and drowned.

  • The use of the word “legion” indicates a multitude of demons possessed this man. In the Roman empire, a legion of soldiers was between 3,000 and 6,000 men.
  • With a word (and Jesus’ permission), the demons left the man and entered the pigs
  • After this healing, the people of that region wanted Jesus to leave for they feared His power, and they feared his influence on their sources of income

  1. Even the evil recognizes the power and presence of Jesus

Vs 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, fell down before Him, and with a loud voice said, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg You, do not torment me!”

  • The instant the man encountered Jesus, the demons knew they were in trouble. They knew exactly who Jesus was and they feared Him greatly.
  • They didn’t run from Him, nor did they attempt to argue with Him, they simply fell at His feet.

James 2:19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!

Luke 10:17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”

Application:

  1. The attacks of Satan are just as real today as they were 2,000 years ago (Eph. 6:12, John 10:10)
  • The tombs where we live today are found in the recesses of isolation, the internet, drugs and alcohol, and other sin
  • Satan’s plan is to get you away from the light as quickly and as far as possible
  1. The greatest tools we have to combat the influence of evil is running after truth
  • Reading the Bible, prayer, fellowship with other believers, service
  1. When Satan gets a foothold, we have nothing to fear. Bring Jesus into the room!

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04-Feb-24

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Read – Job 12-13

What does it say?
Job responded to his friends and prayed to the Lord.

What does it mean?
Job‘s friends repeatedly rebuked him and gave him no comfort or encouragement. He had reached the conclusion that their silence would be the best wisdom they could offer. He knew his only true and lasting comfort would be from God Himself. Even with all God had allowed to happen, Job continued to hope in the Lord. He decided to take his case straight to God instead of accepting the judgment of everyone around him. He wanted to speak to the Lord directly and longed to hear His reply.

How should I respond?
Many times the encouragement and answers we seek from friends may be limited or inappropriate. God is the only one who can give complete assurance. Perfect comfort requires a perfect Comforter. The Holy Spirit comes alongside us to give comfort so we will know how to offer the same to others in their times of need (2 Corinthians 1:3-5). Where do you turn when a problem occurs: Do you turn to social media, call your friends, or take the issue to the Lord first? Intercessory prayer is good and necessary, but going directly to God offers direct comfort. In what situation do you need to experience the comfort of the Holy Spirit? As you accept His comfort, you’ll be able to recognize and help others who need to do the same.

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03-Feb-24

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Read – Job 11

What does it say?
Job’s third friend, Zophar, called on Job to repent of his sin and stop mocking God.

What does it mean?
‘The remarkable thing about Job is not that he overcame his circumstances but rather that he survived his counselors’ – Dr. Paige Patterson. Just like the other two friends who lacked understanding and compassion, Zophar called on Job to repent of his sin. After telling Job to stop mocking the Lord, he went on to say that he deserved even more suffering than God had already allowed. Zophar’s emotional rebuke was filled with condemnation, and it ended with a severe warning. Sadly, Job’s friends were doing more harm than good.

How should I respond?
It’s important to pray and ask God for discernment before offering advice. Sometimes we offer our own opinions and thoughts rather than giving godly counsel from God’s Word. Are you helping your friends with the advice you give or adding to their problems? Matthew 12:34 says, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Ask the Lord to examine your heart and intentions before you speak. Then, rely on Him to give you the words to say. How might you have condemned or accused someone when you should have shown love and compassion? Based on today’s passage, what will you do differently next time?

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02-Feb-24

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Read – Job 10

What does it say?
Job pleaded with God. He wanted to know why God would create him just to punish him so severely.

What does it mean?
Job had reached the point in his suffering in which he began to question God’s faithfulness. He began to wonder if God was angry with him and thought it was good to oppress him. Even though he knew he served a just God, Job began to question His intentions for allowing the innocent to suffer while the wicked went unpunished. The faithfulness and goodness of God were hard for Job to see in his current circumstances. He felt as if the God he had always loved and served had betrayed him and was now his enemy.

How should I respond?
Have you ever suffered to the point that you began to question God’s goodness and faithfulness? Hebrews 10:23 tells us to “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” We can hold firmly to the promise that God is still faithful despite our health, circumstances, or bank account. Aren’t you glad that God’s faithfulness doesn’t depend on our amount of faith at any given moment? God remains faithful even when we are faithless. How will you trust in His faithfulness today?

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01-Feb-24

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Read – Job 8-9

What does it say?
Bildad encouraged Job to repent, asserting that God wouldn’t punish Job unless he or someone in his family had sinned. Job then responded to Bildad’s call for repentance.

What does it mean?
From Bildad’s point of view, Job showed disrespect toward God by questioning why he was suffering. Bildad couldn’t comprehend that God would permit the righteous to experience such pain. He felt that only those who sinned against God would be punished through suffering, so he urged Job to repent from his sin. Instead of encouraging Job to trust in God’s compassion and grace, he made accusations concerning Job and his family. Job couldn’t imagine how to prove one’s innocence to a Holy God. In his anguish, Job felt that he had been found guilty, and his only option was to plead with his Judge for mercy.

How should I respond?
As followers of Christ today, we also suffer, grieve, and even question. During our grief and suffering, we must rely on God’s mercy and grace. Mercy is best described as God’s not giving us what we deserve, whereas grace is God’s giving us what we don’t deserve. No one is holy or righteous enough to earn God’s favor. How have you tried to explain life’s ups and downs without regard for God’s grace? You can’t rely on your own goodness, but God’s grace is available to get you through any circumstance.

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31-Jan-24

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Read – Job 7

What does it say?
Job explained his restlessness, sharing details about the physical and mental suffering he was enduring. He asked why God was testing him every moment of his day.

What does it mean?
Job’s suffering was so multifaceted that he didn’t have a moment’s relief. Even if the physical pain eased enough to allow sleep, nightmares would awaken him. The effects of restlessness and hopelessness wracked Job’s body and emotions to the point that he begged God to leave him alone, if only for a brief moment. Job didn’t understand why God allowed him to suffer so greatly or why He wouldn’t at least forgive him of his sin and restore him. His only comfort was in knowing that one day he would die, and the suffering would end.

How should I respond?
Suffering will not always be understood on this side of Heaven. Some suffering is the result of natural consequences: fall off a roof, and you’ll likely break bones. But what about suffering that can’t be explained, as when a newborn baby dies? Unexplained adversities cause many to ask the age-old question, “Why does God allow bad things to happen?” How do you respond when God doesn’t give relief right away? Making the decision to love the Lord in spite of tragic circumstances is a matter of trust. Jot down ten things you know to be true about God’s character. When you can’t see what God is doing, you can always trust Him. Will you give Him your hopelessness today?

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30-Jan-24

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Read – Job 6

What does it say?
Job spoke to his three friends, asking them for comfort rather than arguments.

What does it mean?
When Job needed comfort, his friends poured salt into an open wound. His emotions erupted after being rebuked by Eliphaz. Job was ready for God to take him before he denied or spoke against the Lord. Job needed encouragement. He wanted his friends to simply be there for him. Had there been something Job could have done to end the suffering, he would have gladly done it. He needed companionship, but his friends had no understanding of what he was going through or how to help him.

How should I respond?
We often try to fix situations and even people. But despite our best intentions, we sometimes have no idea what to say to a broken-hearted friend. Sadly, you may have said the wrong thing when words weren’t really necessary at all. This week, allow God to use you as a friend who is willing to merely love and encourage someone else. You may be the only encouragement that person receives. Ask God to help you discern when to listen, when to speak, and when to just be there. You may be surprised to discover that your mere presence is enough.

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29-Jan-24

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Read – Job 4-5

What does it say?
In response to Job’s questioning of the Lord from Chapter 3, his friend Eliphaz mistakenly assumed that Job must have sinned and was being punished by the Lord.

What does it mean?
Job’s well-meaning friend Eliphaz talked with him about God’s holiness and righteousness, concluding that God is just and would not cause the righteous to suffer without a reason. From his viewpoint, God’s blessing was equated with righteousness, while suffering was related to sinfulness. Therefore, Eliphaz felt that Job must have sinned. While there are consequences to sin, not all suffering is the result of personal sin. The sheer presence of sin in the world has caused decay and death since Adam and Eve. Eliphaz had a hard time understanding how God could permit suffering without cause. He called on Job to repent from his sin so that God would restore him.

How should I respond?
We can all think of people who seem to prosper, despite their rejection of Christ. You may also be able to name friends who love and serve the Lord, yet they have had to suffer unimaginable pain. Some of them have deeply influenced our lives because they chose to praise God in spite of their suffering. What difficulty are you facing right now? Will you yield to God’s work in your life and choose to rejoice, knowing that God is using this time to strengthen your faith and draw you closer to Him (James 1:2-5; 12)?

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28-Jan-24

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Read – Job 3

What does it say?
In a speech to his friends, Job cursed the day he was born. But after all Job had suffered, he still refused to curse God.

What does it mean?
All of Job’s worst fears had come to fruition. While he didn’t turn his back on God, Job did question, “Why?” Why would God allow so much suffering in his life? His loss caused so much heartbreak that he longed for death and for the Lord to take his life. In overwhelming pain, Job even wished he had never been born. He wasn’t suicidal, just completely broken and ready for his heartache to end. The Lord, however, had other plans for Job and refused to let him die.

How should I respond?
Asking God, “Why?” is not sin. Life can be hard. Being broken before the Lord and crying out for answers and help are a normal part of handling suffering. How have you questioned something God has permitted in your life? Asking, “Why?” doesn’t mean you don’t trust God. It’s a simple admission that you don’t see the whole picture or understand why He is allowing your heartache. What questions do you have for God today? Why don’t you go ahead and ask Him? He may show you His purpose, or He may use your question to draw you into a deeper relationship with Him.

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27-Jan-24

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Read – Job 1-2

What does it say?
Job lost his possessions, children, and health as the result of two conversations between God and Satan in the heavenly realms.

What does it mean?
In the first two chapters of Job, two scenarios are taking place. Glimpses of Job’s life and character show how the Lord had provided for Job and blessed him with possessions and family. Appropriately, Job glorified God with how he lived his life. Even so, God permitted Satan to bring suffering into Job’s life. Once Job’s possessions, children, and health were gone, his wife encouraged him to curse God. God was not the source of Job’s suffering, but He did permit it. Job’s response was to bless the Lord regardless of his circumstances since God permits both good and bad.

How should I respond?
It’s difficult to understand suffering. However, we can rest assured that Satan’s power is limited to what God permits. What kinds of suffering has God allowed in your life? How have you responded? Has it drawn you closer to Him or pushed you away? Your ability to love and serve the Lord isn’t limited by your circumstances. Because He is eternal, God sees the whole picture: past, present, and future. You can learn from the past and try to understand the present. Jesus, however, is the sure hope for your future. Will you choose to trust Him with your circumstances today?

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26-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 9-10:3

What does it say?
The Jews defeated their enemies, and the Feast of Purim was established.

What does it mean?
A divine reversal of events occurred in today’s passage. On a day intended for the annihilation of the Jewish people, God’s redemption led to the destruction of their enemies, the very people who intended to destroy them. Many enemies of the Jews throughout Persia had been empowered by the edict from Haman. By allowing the Jews to defend themselves God brought judgment on their enemies in the region. Rather than a day of fear and mourning, the victory established a national day of celebration.

How should I respond?
Battles and warfare are common throughout Scripture. Many passages in the New Testament refer to the Christian life as spiritual warfare (Rom. 7:23, 2 Cor. 10:4; Eph. 6:11-17, 1 Tim 6:12). While a spiritual battle is usually a difficult and unpleasant experience, it is the means by which God makes His power known to both His enemies and His children. What spiritual victories have you had personally? Why not take a day to celebrate these victories, to remember them, to recount them to friends and family, and to thank God for them? Do you have difficulty recalling any? Then begin with the day of your salvation, and celebrate God’s reversal of your personal destiny.

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25-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 8

What does it say?
Esther pleaded with the king on behalf of her people. Mordecai wrote a new law giving God’s people the opportunity to defend themselves.

What does it mean?
Mordecai had been spared, and Haman had been dealt with; but the Jewish people were still in danger. After Esther pleaded with the king on their behalf, an edict was drawn up to reverse the one Haman had written. Because Mordecai was given this responsibility, the Jewish people could read of God’s deliverance in their native language. While the law could not be overturned, the Jews were given the opportunity to defend themselves against their enemies. It brought joy and comfort to know that God had not abandoned them. He would give them strength to face their enemies.

How should I respond?
God has given us power and authority to overcome anything that wars against us spiritually. The death and resurrection of Jesus has already secured the victory, but the responsibility to submit to God’s Spirit to fight daily spiritual battles is ours. Many times we surrender to a defeated enemy. When a spiritual battle gets fierce or overwhelming, remember that God is with you. He will always give you the strength to stand when you rely on Him. What battles are you facing right now? What has God shown you through the study of His Word that can help strengthen you for the struggles ahead?

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24-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 7

What does it say?
Esther revealed Haman’s intentions to the king. Haman was sentenced to death and hanged from the very gallows he built for Mordecai.

What does it mean?
Esther had submitted to her role in God’s plan and waited for His timing. God knew the very moment to reveal Haman’s plot to the king. When Ahasuerus asked Esther during the course of the meal what her request was, she knew it was time. By exposing Haman’s hatred, Esther also had to make her own nationality very clear. She had no way of knowing if the king would be furious with Haman’s ambition or with her boldness. No doubt Vashti’s fate was still fresh in her mind. Esther’s choice to personally identify with God’s people showed courage and faith as she left the outcome in God’s hands.

How should I respond?
Taking a stand for God is never the wrong decision, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. We can become so concerned with our reputation, ridicule, or even the end of certain relationships that we fail to speak up. With whom has God prompted you to talk about your faith? Are you hesitant to identify with other followers of Christ? Rather than worrying or becoming preoccupied with what other people think, obey and trust God to take care of you. Place your excuses before the Lord today, and ask Him to strengthen you. Christ will embolden you to say the right thing at the right time.

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23-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 6

What does it say?
When King Ahasuerus couldn’t sleep, he had the record of his reign read to him. After hearing of Mordecai’s actions, the king decided to honor him, humiliating Haman.

What does it mean?
God was behind the king’s sleepless night. He not only kept the king awake, but He led the king’s servant to the exact passage He wanted Ahasuerus to hear. This is pivotal, as it altered the course of events drastically over the next twenty-four hours. God was looking after His people in general as well as ensuring Mordecai’s safety and honoring his faithfulness. Of course, with Mordecai’s blessing came Haman’s public humiliation. Not only did Haman choose how to honor Mordecai, believing it to be for himself, but he was also responsible to see that it was carried out.

How should I respond?
God uses divine interruptions to get the attention of His people and to carry out His plans. These interruptions may come in the form of sleepless nights or occur in the middle of the day. Altering our perspective allows us to see these interruptions as possible interventions by God, rather than bothersome. How closely do you pay attention to “hiccups” in your day? Consider turning those times when you can’t sleep or when you’re stuck in traffic into prayer. God may use an unexpected change in your routine to pull your focus in a new direction. Today, pay attention!

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22-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 5

What does it say?
Esther invited the king and Haman to dinner. Haman plotted against Mordecai.

What does it mean?
While Esther’s position deepened her humility, Haman’s position exacerbated his pride. The invitation to join Queen Esther and King Ahasuerus for a private dinner puffed him up even more. Yet he found it difficult to enjoy his privileged position and wealth because the resistance of one man, Mordecai, consumed him. Haman’s discontent was so significant that his friends and family encouraged him to humiliate Mordecai and have him sentenced to death. At least then, he believed, he could find peace and take pleasure in his greatness.

How should I respond?
Humility is not a sign of weakness, but evidence that you are drawing strength from God. Pride is the opposite attitude, a resistance of the need for God in your personal affairs. Pride does not produce contentment, but an ever-increasing dissatisfaction with your current circumstances. There is no peace in an unending pursuit of personal satisfaction. Pride is destructive both personally and spiritually. In what areas of your life have pride and discontent started to take over? Ask God for help in shifting your perspective from reliance on your own ability to dependence on Him. Pride destroys, but humility produces greatness.

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Prayer and Fasting: The Gamechangers!

2024-01-21 

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

Mark 9:14-29 (CSB) When they came to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes disputing with them. 15 When the whole crowd saw him, they were amazed and ran to greet him. 16 He asked them, “What are you arguing with them about?”17 Someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you. He has a spirit that makes him unable to speak. 18 Whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they couldn’t.”19 He replied to them, “You unbelieving generation, how long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him to me.” 20 So they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, it immediately threw the boy into convulsions. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. 21 “How long has this been happening to him?” Jesus asked his father. “From childhood,” he said. 22 “And many times it has thrown him into fire or water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.”23 Jesus said to him, “ ‘If you can’? Everything is possible for the one who believes.”24 Immediately the father of the boy cried out, “I do believe; help my unbelief!”25 When Jesus saw that a crowd was quickly gathering, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you: Come out of him and never enter him again.”26 Then it came out, shrieking and throwing him into terrible convulsions. The boy became like a corpse, so that many said, “He’s dead.” 27 But Jesus, taking him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.28 After he had gone into the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?”29 And he told them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer.”

 

1. Why is fasting, along with prayer, so important?

  • It’s expected of believers

Matthew 6:5-6 Whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, because they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your private room, shut your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:16-18 Whenever you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites. For they make their faces unattractive so that their fasting is obvious to people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that your fasting isn’t obvious to others but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

  • It exposes the power of God
    • Rick Warren wrote about some examples from Scripture of prayer and fasting
      • Moses fasted before he received the Ten Commandments.

Exodus 34:28 Moses was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he did not eat food or drink water. He wrote the Ten Commandments, the words of the covenant, on the tablets.

  • The Israelites fasted before a miraculous victory.

2 Chronicles 20:1-4 After this, the Moabites and Ammonites, together with some of the Meunites, came to fight against Jehoshaphat. 2 People came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast number from beyond the Dead Sea and from Edom has come to fight against you; they are already in Hazazon-tamar” (that is, En-gedi). 3 Jehoshaphat was afraid, and he resolved to seek the Lord. Then he proclaimed a fast for all Judah, 4 who gathered to seek the Lord. They even came from all the cities of Judah to seek him.

2 Chronicles 20:15 and he said, “Listen carefully, all Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and King Jehoshaphat. This is what the Lord says: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast number, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.

  • Daniel fasted in order to receive guidance from God.

Daniel 9:3 So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek him by prayer and  petitions, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

  • Nehemiah fasted before beginning a major building project.

Nehemiah 1:4 When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for a number of days, fasting and praying before the God of the heavens.

  • Jesus fasted during His victory over temptation.

Luke 4:1-2 Then Jesus left the Jordan, full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days to be tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and when they were over, he was hungry.

2. What is the purpose of fasting and prayer?

  • Focuses our faith

Acts 13:2-3 As they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them off.

  • Elmer Towns says, “Just stopping eating will not get answers to prayer. You have to spend time with God. You’re not fasting to get your prayers answered; you’re fasting to know God—to hunger and thirst after righteousness.”
  • Sets our desires aside to seek God’s desires

Psalm 35:13 “Yet when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting, and my prayer was genuine.

Zech 7:4-5 Then the word of the Lord of Armies came to me: 5 “Ask all the people of the land and the priests: When you fasted and lamented in the fifth and in the seventh months for these seventy years, did you really fast for me?

  • Reveals the kind of power which can only come from God

Ezra 8:21-23 I proclaimed a fast by the Ahava River, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us, our dependents, and all our possessions. 22 I did this because I was ashamed to ask the king for infantry and cavalry to protect us from enemies during the journey, since we had told him, “The hand of our God is gracious to all who seek him, but his fierce anger is against all who abandon him.” 23 So we fasted and pleaded with our God about this, and he was receptive to our prayer.

Bill Bright said, “Fasting reduces the power of self so that the Holy Spirit can do a more intense work within us.”

3. Does fasting actually make a difference?

  • The power of fasting has less to do with what we give up and more to do with who we run to – God!
  • Prayer and Fasting is a discipline which reveals God’s ultimate authority and power within our lives
  • Prayer and fasting takes us into a deeper relationship with God than we could ever experience otherwise

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21-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 4

What does it say?
The Jewish people were devastated by the news of Haman’s plot. Mordecai urged Esther to approach the king to plead for mercy.

What does it mean?
Fulfilling Mordecai’s request would put Esther’s life on the line. The Lord would deliver His people, whether she spoke up or not. Her courage to act came from knowing that God wanted to use her as part of His plan to rescue His people. She was not queen by accident or coincidence; God had positioned Esther for a purpose. Mordecai’s faith inspired Esther to remember God’s past faithfulness. She knew the value of seeking God and asked the people of God to join her in fasting and prayer. She took her requests to the King of kings prior to approaching her earthly king.

How should I respond?
As a follower of Christ, your life has purpose. Your position and circumstances aren’t coincidence or luck. God wants to use your life as part of His plan. The Lord will accomplish His purpose with or without us. However, He offers us the privilege of joining Him to be a part of something special. Finding the courage to be part of His work is the result of prayer and spending time in His Word. In what ways has God been asking you to join Him in His work? How are you allowing God to use your position, your relationships, or career opportunities? Like Esther, you may very well have been positioned “for such a time as this!”

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20-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 3

What does it say?
Haman was enraged that Mordecai refused to bow down to him. Haman used his position with the king to attempt to annihilate the Jewish people.

What does it mean?
Haman’s promotion came with the honor of having the king’s servants bow to him. As a Jew, however, Mordecai knew it was wrong to bow to anyone or anything other than the Lord. Even though the other servants questioned his decision and pressured him to bow to Haman, Mordecai stood firm. Then he went a step further by disclosing his reason: he was Jewish. Haman was furious with Mordecai’s resistance and determined in that moment to destroy all the Jews.

How should I respond?
One person can make a difference by taking a stand for God and truth. That kind of resolve can set the stage for Him to do something special, although it may initially cause conflict with others. How have you possibly compromised your beliefs in order to fit in? Have you chosen to say nothing rather than stand for godly principles? Resolve to make your commitment firm by asking God to provide you with strength and power as you study His Word and submit to the Holy Spirit. You won’t have to look far to find an opportunity to take a stand for Christ. How will you make a difference today?

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19-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 2

What does it say?
Esther was chosen to be the new queen. Her cousin Mordecai saved the king from a plot to take his life.

What does it mean?
The search for a new queen was a fearful and anxious time for the young women in Ahasuerus’ kingdom. They were involuntarily taken from their homes and sent off to spend the rest of their lives with hundreds of other women in the king’s harem. Despite the dire circumstances, Esther kept her composure, stayed humble, and listened to wise counsel – all of which led to her finding favor with the king. Life had taken an unexpected turn, but God was positioning her for His purpose.

How should I respond?
Unexpected and unwelcome changes often leave us asking, “Why?” A need for understanding can be a distraction from trusting God. Self-imposed pity parties about our circumstances pull our focus away from the Lord, causing us to miss what God is working out, both in us and through us. What situation in your life has you perplexed and asking God, “Why?” Take time to honestly talk with God. Then turn that question into “What?” or “How?” by asking, “What do You want to do in and through me? How can I glorify You with my response to these circumstances?” God may be using your circumstances to position you perfectly for His purpose.

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18-Jan-24

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Read – Esther 1

What does it say?
King Ahasuerus celebrated his power and wealth. Vashti was removed as queen.

What does it mean?
King Ahasuerus was a proud, quick-tempered man who celebrated his excessive wealth with extravagance. As the king of a vast empire, Ahasuerus was accustomed to controlling everything and everyone. Queen Vashti, however, refused to be controlled. There aren’t clear explanations as to why she refused the king’s order, but her actions breached both royal protocol and cultural etiquette. The king’s humiliation quickly turned to anger. Banishing Vashti from court and removing her as queen seemed the only way to salvage his reputation. Ahasuerus, once again, had the illusion of control.

How should I respond?
Pride often leads us to believe that we know what’s best. Like King Ahasuerus, we try to control our circumstances and the people around us. Manipulation of any kind shows a lack of trust in our sovereign God. What situation has sent you scrambling for a way to fix it? Who are you subtly attempting to control? Examine your plans and motives in light of God’s Word. Ask the Lord to reveal where you’re working toward a different set of goals and on a different timetable than His. Then give those areas over to God’s control.

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17-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 13

What does it say?
Nehemiah addressed several areas of disobedience that had arisen among the Israelites in his absence.

What does it mean?
Upon his return to Jerusalem, Nehemiah was dismayed to find Israel’s devotion to God weakened. He immediately began to address each issue and reminded the people of their sacred promises. Nehemiah acted in obedience to God, regardless of who opposed him. He chose the unpopular path, rebuking his own countrymen, so that God’s law would be honored. He also seemed to understand that later generations would suffer if he chose to do nothing. Throughout the process, Nehemiah humbly asked God to remember his faithfulness and to have compassion on him.

How should I respond?
Many in today’s culture place far more importance on what others think of them rather than whether or not God is pleased with their lives. The approval you seek will determine the kind of influence you have. What kind of legacy are you leaving for those who follow behind you? Standing up for the truths of Scripture may not be popular in your home, workplace, or school; but the Lord honors those who honor Him. Ask God to show you areas of your life that need His correction so that you will leave behind a legacy of faithfulness and obedience.

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16-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 12:27-47

What does it say?
Nehemiah and the Israelites completed the task of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem and celebrated the event by offering a ceremony of praise to God.

What does it mean?
Consider how the odds were stacked against Nehemiah and the Israelites’ completing the wall. They returned from captivity to a devastated capital city. They were poor, outnumbered, and surrounded by violent enemies. The future of the entire nation rested on the success of this small band. Yet God’s provision was more than enough to ensure success. The people’s natural response was to give all the credit for that success to God. The celebration, which could be heard far away, spilled over into their daily lives as they gave generously to support the Levites and the temple services.

How should I respond?
Birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries are all reasons for celebration. Today’s passage reminds us that celebration is also in order when a God-given goal is completed. Like the Israelites, the focus of the celebration should be on God’s provision and enabling, not our own efforts. What task has God given you to do? How has He provided for your success despite the obstacles? Take time to stop and celebrate accomplishments at home, at work, and in ministry. If it has been some time since you last celebrated God’s unfailing goodness, today is a great day to start.

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15-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 10:28-39

What does it say?
Nehemiah led the Israelites in making a vow to keep God’s commandments and properly support the temple.

What does it mean?
During their years of captivity, the Israelites had forgotten many of God’s instructions given through Moses. Under Nehemiah’s guidance, the Israelites again listened to the Law of God and made a vow to uphold His instructions in three distinct ways. First, they agreed to separate themselves from the influence of nations that did not follow God’s commands. Next, the Israelites agreed to resume all of the temple ceremonies and to keep them exactly as God instructed. Finally, even though they possessed little wealth, the Jewish people agreed to give their tithes generously to support the temple.

How should I respond?
Scripture teaches that there is a connection between spiritual health and commitment to the local church. Voluntary commitment to God’s house draws us closer to God and to each other. Giving of ourselves to support the church provides a common purpose and keeps our spirits healthy. How are you working with other believers to help your local church thrive? No sacrifice of time, talent, or money can compare with the spiritual benefits of obediently serving the Lord. Contact your church office staff if you’re not sure where to start – they will be happy to help you!|Further Reading: Nehemiah 11:1-12:26

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How To Walk With Jesus In 2024

2024-01-14

Matt Willmington

 

Luke 9:23-24

Where are you walking in 2024?

Who are you following?

Who are you walking with?

The answer to these questions: JESUS

Luke 9:23-24 CSB Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will save it.

“Walk”

 

Genesis 3:8-9 ESV And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?”

Enoch

  • Genesis 5:22, 24 – Enoch walked with God for 300 years, and he had other sons and daughters…

Noah

  • Genesis 6:9 – was a godly man; he was blameless among his contemporaries. He walked with God.

Abraham

  • Genesis 17:1 – When Abram was 99 years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the Sovereign God. Walk before me and be blameless.

Isaac and Jacob

  • Genesis 48:15

Israel

  • Exodus 16 – Will they walk in my law or not?
  • Leviticus 18:4 – You must observe my regulations and you must be sure to walk in my statutes. I am the Lord your God.
  • Leviticus 26:12 – I will walk among you, and I will be your God and you will be my people.
  • Deuteronomy 6:7 – and you must teach them to your children and speak of them as you sit in your house, as you walk along the road, as you lie down, and as you get up.

Samuel

  • 1 Samual 12:2

David and Solomon

  • 1 Kings 3:3 – Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father…
  • 1 Kings 3:6 – David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness
  • 1 Kings 3:14 if you will walk in my ways

God walking with His people in Good Places

Old Testament – TOWARDS the Savior – Garden, Alter, Tabernacle, Temple, Foreign Land

New Testament – WITH the Savior – Body, House, City

Chart

New Testament Letters – “Walk”

  • Newness of life, Spirit not flesh, love, faith not sight, good works, worthy, wise, children of light, pleasing God, properly, Christ, truth

Luke 9:23-24 ESV Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life because of me will save it.

How to walk with Jesus in 2024?

  1. You must WANT to
  2. You must DENY yourself
  3. You must carry your cross DAILY
    1. Acts 2:46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,
    2. Acts 6:1 widows… the daily distribution
    3. Acts 16:5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.
    4. Acts 17:11 they received the word with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily
    5. Hebrews 3:13 But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today…
  4. You must FOLLOW Jesus

How do we follow Jesus together in TRBC?

Thomas Road Mission Statement: “Our mission is to change our world by developing Christ-followers who love God and love people.”

How does this breakdown?

  1. Salvation and Baptism
  2. Discipleship
  3. Love God/People
    1. Scripture
    2. Prayer
    3. Worship
    4. Community
    5. Serving
    6. Sharing

Chart

How we do this in each area?

  • Children – Sundays, Awana
  • Students – Sundays, Wednesdays
  • Adults – Sundays, Groups

Jesus walked 3,125 miles during his 3-year ministry…at 3 mph.-“Love has its speed… It is an inner speed… a spiritual speed. It is a different kind of speed from the technological speed to which we are accustomed. … It goes on in the depth of our life, whether we notice or not, whether we are currently hit by the storm or not, at three miles an hour. It is the speed we walk and therefore it is the speed the love of God walks.” -Kosuke Koyama, “Three Mile An Hour God”

1 John 2:6 ESV The one who says he resides in God ought himself to walk just as Jesus walked.

Where are you walking in 2024?

Who are you following?

Who are you walking with?

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14-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 9

What does it say?
The Levites led Israel in prayer – praising the Lord’s name, confessing their sins, and recognizing His faithfulness despite their continual disobedience.

What does it mean?
The grief Israel felt over their sin after reading the Book of the Law resulted in individual and corporate repentance. The Lord’s name and attributes were praised as the Levites offered thankful recognition of all that He had done for every generation of Israelites. The bulk of the prayer, however, is a confession of the nation’s long history of sin, which led to their present circumstances. Although enslaved in their own land, they asked for only one thing: that He would not regard their present suffering lightly. Even in “great distress” they focused on the greatness and faithfulness of their God.

How should I respond?
Reading Scripture and talking to God go hand-in-hand; one should naturally lead to the other. The prayer in today’s passage is a beautiful example for us to follow. Too often our prayers are so filled with asking for God’s provision and protection that we forget to thank Him for His faithfulness. But consider the other two parts of this prayer – praise and confession. How much time do you spend praising the name and character of the Lord? Try reading this passage as a personal prayer. Praise God for His attributes listed; then confess your own sins in place of Israel’s. Focus on His faithfulness today.

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13-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 8

What does it say?
The people of Israel worshiped the Lord and wept as Ezra read the Book of the Law of Moses. They then joyfully celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles.

What does it mean?
The walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt, but the spiritual condition of the nation still needed restoration. The people living in Jerusalem still had a Babylonian mindset from decades of captivity. The leaders rightly understood that God’s Word alone was the solution to Israel’s spiritual void. As Ezra read from the Book of the Law of Moses and the Levites gave instructions, those listening understood and grieved over their sinful condition. God’s Word is intended to instruct, comfort, and convict. But Nehemiah also wanted the nation to celebrate their renewed understanding and identification with their God – which was the entire purpose of rebuilding the wall.

How should I respond?
It’s nice to have well-maintained facilities in which to gather as a church. But the building only serves its purpose as we understand and respond to the clear teaching of God’s Word. Our initial reaction to the instruction, conviction, and comfort found in the Bible should be joyfulness. Even grief over sin is cause for joy; you can’t correct sin until you identify it. How are you actively going beyond the reading of Scripture? Do you attend a Life Group, weekly worship services, or read biblically sound books to increase your understanding? A correct response to Scripture is essential to spiritual growth.

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12-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 6

What does it say?
Nehemiah’s enemies unsuccessfully tried to lure him away from his work and into harm. The surrounding nations became afraid when the wall was completed in 52 days.

What does it mean?
Sanballat and company had failed to stop the building of the wall, so they turned their attention to weakening or removing Nehemiah’s influence over the people of Jerusalem. Through repeated attempts they tried to discredit him and even threatened his life. Because Nehemiah was confident of the great work God had called him to do, he didn’t get distracted, try to defend his reputation, or run and hide. Instead, he stayed focused on the task at hand. God continually gave Nehemiah determination and discernment to see through their deceptive schemes.

How should I respond?
Satan will continually oppose anyone doing a great work for God. If he can discourage or discredit you, then the entire project is at risk. What “great work” has God given you to do? Raise children? Lead a class or ministry within your church? Don’t let fear or intimidation distract you from your God-given task. Like Nehemiah, be confident in the work God has given you to do and stay committed to its completion. Ask God for the discernment and resolve to go on with your work, regardless of the opposition you face.|Further Reading: Nehemiah 7

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11-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 5

What does it say?
Nehemiah put a stop to slavery and usury between the Jewish people and refused to take the governor’s allotment. He remained devoted to building the wall.

What does it mean?
Nehemiah led by example. Completely devoting himself to God’s work, he determined not to use the privileges of his position at the expense of the people. He did not tax them for his support or take the food allotted to the governor. Others, however, had tried to gain financially from the economic misfortune of their countrymen. Nehemiah demonstrated an understanding of God’s love and concern for the poor and oppressed by pouring out that same love to other people. His example and urging led others to do the same. No doubt, Nehemiah had earned their respect by working alongside the other builders rather than simply overseeing the project.

How should I respond?
Make a quick list of qualities you expect a leader to have. Now, circle the ones that line up with God’s Word (e.g., honest, just, kind, fair). Which traits did Nehemiah model? We all have wonderful ideas of how leaders should act, but do we exemplify those same qualities in our own lives? As you look back over your list, put a check beside the qualities you possess. Although you may not be an elected leader, consider the areas of influence God has given you within your family, job, and community. Rather than use that influence for personal gain, ask God to help you be a servant leader today.

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10-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 4

What does it say?
Nehemiah and his countrymen defended the wall against the threat of attack. They continued to build despite ridicule from their enemies.

What does it mean?
Nehemiah didn’t give in to ridicule, physical threats, discouragement, or fear. Instead, he reminded the people that the Lord, “who is great and awesome,” would fight for them and frustrate the plans of the enemy. Nehemiah kept the focus on the job God had given them to do. He and his workers continued to repair the wall as well as watch for enemy attack. Their diligent resolve and defense strategy ensured that God’s plan would prevail, regardless of opposition.

How should I respond?
What has God asked you to build? A family, business, or church? Satan still tries to sabotage us with ridicule, threats, discouragement, and fear. This shouldn’t be a surprise, since any eternal work for God will face opposition. Scripture gives us the enemy’s tactics and even tells us how to counter them (Eph. 6:10-18). Does your fear sometimes seem greater than your faith? How has ridicule or discouragement distracted you from building? You can take heart because God remains faithful. We need to remember who God is and resolve to defend our “wall.”

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09-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 2

What does it say?
Nehemiah received permission from Artaxerxes, the Persian king, to go to Jerusalem to begin rebuilding the city. He surveyed the walls before asking the officials for help.

What does it mean?
Nehemiah still carried the burden of Jerusalem four months after he first prayed about the condition of the city and his countrymen. God had been at work, orchestrating the exact moment for this conversation with Artaxerxes. During long months of prayer, God had placed a desire in Nehemiah’s heart to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall. He then answered Nehemiah’s prayer by giving him favor with the king, who agreed to provide supplies to help Nehemiah’s dream come to fruition. After arriving in Jerusalem, Nehemiah cast his God-given vision to those who could help it come about.

How should I respond?
God-given plans and provision are the result of diligently seeking Him in prayer. How often do you prayerfully look for guidance in God’s Word? The purpose of a God-given desire is to bring Him glory. When you are certain of what God wants you to do, you can also be certain that He will provide what you need to do it. Consider keeping a devotional journal to record how God directs you through Scripture. Then, jot down a prayer and watch for God’s timing. Just as He provided for Nehemiah, the Lord is also “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20).|Further Reading: Nehemiah 3

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08-Jan-24

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Read – Nehemiah 1

What does it say?
After receiving news that Jerusalem was in ruins and its inhabitants disgraced, Nehemiah confessed the sins of the nation and asked God for favor with the king.

What does it mean?
Nehemiah and many of God’s people were captives in Persia. Those who had been allowed to return to Jerusalem had intermarried with people from other nations and had taken on their pagan practices. This once great nation, a symbol of God’s richest blessings, had become a disgrace. Nehemiah’s immediate response to the condition of the city and its inhabitants was to mourn, fast, and pray. He confessed his own sin as well as that of his countrymen. Through it all, Nehemiah understood that God’s promises were still true and that restoration of God’s people was possible.

How should I respond?
You don’t have to look very hard to find stories of professing Christians whose lives have been turned upside down by sin and its devastating consequences. What is your initial reaction to another believer’s moral or ethical failure? When God reveals sin – anyone’s sin – our response should be sorrow and repentance. Not being heartbroken could be an indication that pride has deceived us into rationalizing our own sin. Instead, earnestly pray and ask God to reveal your shortcomings, claiming His promise of forgiveness. Then pray for the person who was caught in sin. Restoration is possible!

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Why you should follow Jesus in 2024

2024-01-07

Jonathan Falwell

John 8:12

 

Today is the first Sunday of 2024 and a great opportunity to revisit the reason we gather in churches like this one each week. That reason, simply stated, is to “Follow Jesus.” Jesus called everyone in Scripture to follow Him, and He still calls us today. Last week, Charles talked about “starting over” which was a great way to prepare for a new year. This week and next we’re going to talk about why and how we follow Jesus.

So today, I want to give you a simple sentence which answers the question, “Why we should follow Jesus in 2024?”

“He is the help you’ve been looking for to guide you in a difficult time and give you the hope you’ve always wanted.”

John 8:12  (CSB) Jesus spoke to them again: “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.”

1. He is

vs 12a Jesus spoke to them again: “I am…

  • In Exodus 3, God simply stated “I AM WHO I AM” and told Moses to tell Israel “I AM has sent me.” This declaration by God was to convey the understanding that God has always been, God is, and God will always be. Jesus connected Himself to this declaration through the seven “I AM” statements found within the book of John.
    • I AM the bread of life (6:35)
    • I AM the light of the world (8:12)
    • I AM the door (10:7)
    • I AM the good shepherd (10:11-14)
    • I AM the resurrection and the life (11:25)
    • I AM the way, truth and the life (14:6)
    • I AM the true vine (15:1)

Isaiah 41:1-4 Be silent before me, coasts and islands! And let peoples renew their strength. Let them approach; let them testify; let’s come together for the trial. 2 Who has stirred up someone from the east? In righteousness he calls him to serve.,, The Lord hands nations over to him, and he subdues kings. He makes them like dust with his sword, like wind-driven stubble with his bow. 3 He pursues them, going on safely, hardly touching the path with his feet. 4 Who has performed and done this, calling the generations from the beginning? I am the Lord, the first and with the last—I am he.”

Isaiah 43:25 I am the one, I sweep away your transgressions for my own sake and remember your sins no more.

Isaiah 48:12 Listen to me, Jacob, and Israel, the one called by me: I am he; I am the first, I am also the last.

2. The help you’ve been looking for

vs 12b …I am the light of the world…

  • Jesus made this statement around the time of the Feast of Tabernacles, a special celebration within Israel to mark the presence and provision of God with their ancestors as they marched in the wilderness for 40 years. It is also celebrates the coming Messiah.
  • The following verses in John 8 reflect how the pharisees received this “I AM” statement.
  • Jesus was challenged on His statement that He was not a proper witness because you could not testify on your own behalf. (Deut. 19:15) This gave Jesus the opportunity once again to declare He and the Father are one.

John 1:1-5 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through him, and apart from him not one thing was created that has been created. 4 In him was life,, and that life was the light of men. 5 That light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it.

A.W. Tozer said, “The only safe light for our path is the light which is reflected from Christ, the Light of the World.”[1]

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3. To guide you in a difficult time

vs 12c … Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness…

  • Again, the setting of the Feast of Tabernacles was the perfect backdrop as God proved His presence to ancient Israel through the pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night (Ex. 13)

Isaiah 41:1-10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.

Oswald Chambers said, “The remarkable thing about fearing God is that when you fear God, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else.”[2]

Psalm 9:9-10 The Lord is a refuge for the persecuted, a refuge in times of trouble. 10 Those who know your name trust in you because you have not abandoned those who seek you, Lord.

4. And to give you the hope you’ve always wanted

vs 12d … but will have the light of life.

Phil. 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus

John 14:1-7 Don’t let your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 If I go away and prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself, so that where I am you may be also. 4 You know the way to where I am going.”, 5 “Lord,” Thomas said, “we don’t know where you’re going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you know me, you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”

In one of Charles Spurgeon’s powerful sermons, he stated, “When Jesus said, “I am the Way,” He clearly intended to exclude all other ways, so beware lest you perish in any one of them!”[3]

John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me, even if he dies, will live. 26 Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

John 12:46 Jesus cried out, “The one who believes in me believes not in me, but in him who sent me. 45 And the one who sees me sees him who sent me. 46 I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me would not remain in darkness.

[1] The Quotable Tozer Book I, A. W. Tozer. Compiled Harry Verploegh, 1984.

[2] The New Encyclopedia of Christian Quotations, Compiled by Mark Water, John Hunt Publishing, 2000.

[3] Through the Eyes of C.H. Spurgeon: Quotes From A Reformed Baptist Preacher, Charles Spurgeon, Lucid Books, 2012.

 

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07-Jan-24

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Read – Ezra 10:1-44

What does it say?
The Israelites who were guilty of intermarriage with pagan women confessed their unfaithfulness and made a covenant to separate from their pagan wives.

What does it mean?
There is no doubt that the decision to send away the pagan wives and children caused heartache and division. The Israelites were not banned from marrying women from other nations, as long as they had converted to the Jewish faith. However, God had specifically forbidden intermarriage with women who worshiped idols. Obedience was important for the nation to remain true to their worship of the Lord. Although these events in Jewish history are difficult to understand, the case-by-case investigations most likely determined which wives worshiped the Lord God of Israel and Him only.

How should I respond?
Dating websites match personalities, political opinions, and interests in order to make a connection. However, no connection is stronger than living for Christ. Sharing spiritual beliefs is vital to a healthy marriage. Because marriage is sacred to God, it should be to us as well. So, what should you do if married to an unbeliever? Scripture is clear and concise: the believing marriage partner is to do everything possible to preserve the marriage (1 Cor. 7:12-20). Let your obedience to God’s Word be a spiritual example and influence to your spouse. Pray daily that your spouse will see his or her sin and receive God’s forgiveness. It may be your influence that leads your mate to faith in Christ.

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06-Jan-24

,

Read – Ezra 9:1-15

What does it say?
Ezra was told of the people’s disobedience regarding intermarriage with pagans. Grieved and distressed by what he heard, Ezra turned to the Lord in prayer.

What does it mean?
The law of God prohibited the Israelites from intermarriage with pagans (Deut. 7). Marriage is an intimate relationship. The religious beliefs, morals, and values of the husband and wife greatly influence their children. Marriage to women from nations that practiced idol worship would have lasting effects on Israel’s present families and future generations. It also put them in a dangerous position because intermarriage with pagans violated God’s law. Ezra understood the devastating consequences of breaking the Lord’s clear commands. Once again, the future of the nation was in God’s hands.

How should I respond?
It’s easy to think we can dabble in sin every once in a while without consequence. But this kind of thinking is dangerous. One sin inevitably leads to another and dulls the conscience. Before you know it, one act of compromise has pulled you into a lifestyle of sin. God’s warnings are His protection from sin and its consequences. What temptations are you currently facing? Have you resisted, or have you dabbled? Ask the Lord to show you any areas in which you’ve compromised. Then seek His forgiveness and turn away from the sin before you are caught in a cycle of disobedience.

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05-Jan-24

,

Read – Ezra 7:1-28

What does it say?
God extended His favor to Ezra through King Artaxerxes. Ezra was granted freedom to return to Jerusalem to teach, lead, and govern the Israelites.

What does it mean?
Ezra made it a priority to study, obey, and teach the law of God. With God’s guidance, Ezra led the people spiritually. Artaxerxes saw this as an asset because he wanted to ensure peace throughout his empire. Israel would have no need to rebel against Artaxerxes when guaranteed the ability to worship the Lord without fear. Ezra’s diligence and obedience opened the door to religious freedom for God’s people. Once again, God used a pagan king to fulfill His purposes for Israel. In turn, God received glory and honor from His people.

How should I respond?
Reading the manufacturer’s instruction manual tells you how to operate your vehicle for top performance. In a similar way, God’s Word is the instruction manual from our Creator. The Bible is God’s infallible Word, written for our benefit. It contains everything we need to know about how to live obedient, productive lives. How faithful are you to study and apply God’s Word? The more you study Scripture, the more you’ll understand how to live to please the Lord. Then you will be prepared to lead and teach others. Study. Obey. Teach. How can you implement Ezra’s priorities in your own life?|Further Reading: Ezra 8

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04-Jan-24

,

Read – Ezra 6:1-22

What does it say?
After confirmation that Cyrus had granted the Israelites permission to rebuild the temple, the work continued uninterrupted until it was finished.

What does it mean?
After 21 years, everything the people needed to resume their covenant relationship with God was finally restored. The rebuilding of the temple fulfilled the people’s need for proper fellowship with Him. They worshiped freely and celebrated the Passover in recognition of all that God had accomplished on their behalf. Even those who had stayed in Jerusalem during the exile and had taken on Gentile customs, once again separated themselves to the Lord. God’s people served and worshiped in His house, just as He had intended.

How should I respond?
Christians today gather in houses of worship all over the world. Although every church is unique, places associated with the name of Christ should share some of the same characteristics. When God’s house operates the way He intended, it becomes a place of joy. Your local church is a place to share and hear how God is working in the lives of His followers. The preaching of God’s Word brings repentance, spiritual rebirth, and recognition of His blessings and faithfulness. How are you giving your time and talents to God’s house? Your contribution may be just the thing that brings someone else joy.

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03-Jan-24

,

Read – Ezra 4:1-5:17

What does it say?
The Israelites’ work was stopped briefly when they faced opposition, but the work resumed after Haggai and Zechariah encouraged the people.

What does it mean?
When kings of surrounding enemy nations noticed the Israelite’s progress in rebuilding their temple, they became concerned. They feared the Israelites would be too powerful if the project were completed. Accusations were made, and the Israelites were challenged repeatedly to account for what they were doing. When work was stopped for a time, the enemies seemed to have succeeded. However, this reconstruction was vital to the people’s covenant relationship with God, and it had to be completed. Haggai and Zechariah’s encouraging words helped the Israelites continue the work regardless of what they were facing.

How should I respond?
Facing opposition should not come as a surprise when we we’re seeking to serve and honor God. Satan likes nothing better than to foul up anything we are doing that furthers God’s plans. What setback has discouraged you from following God’s will? It’s important to keep going. Continuing to work despite roadblocks now will make it easier next time. It will also give you the tools to help someone else in the same situation. Don’t give up! Your endurance through tough times may encourage someone else to keep going.

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December 30, 2023

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Read – Psalms 146-147

What does it say?
The psalmist would praise and trust the Lord all of his life because His faithfulness endures. He challenged Israel to praise God for His revealed laws and Word.

What does it mean?
It’s generally thought that the last five psalms were written when the second temple was completed, and the walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt. That’s a fitting explanation for why these psalms begin with the same three words, “Praise the Lord.” During Israel’s captivity and return, the writer had learned to place his hope in God instead of in people. Only the Creator of Heaven and Earth sustains the troubled, lifts up those who are humbled, and heals the brokenhearted. He will not fail those who put their trust in Him. Israel had special cause to praise the Lord; no other nation had the revelation of God’s wisdom and person through His laws and decrees. It was fitting to praise Him.

How should I respond?
What challenges are you facing right now? Whom do you trust for the answers? God can be trusted to provide what you need when you spend time in His Word and in prayer. If you’re worried, you can turn to Him for peace. If you are lonely, you can turn to Him for friendship. If your heart is broken, you can turn to Him for healing. If you feel powerless, you can turn to Him for strength. You can even thank and praise Him before the answers come because God is forever faithful to those who choose to hope in Him.

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Starting Over  (Lessons from the Potter’s House)  

2023-12-31

Charles Billingsley

 

1. Settle the past. 

2. Stop making excuses 

“One of these days is NONE of these days.” – Rick Warren

3. Set your goals 

4. Surrender your heart daily

 

John 15:5 (ESV)
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

So as we discuss today the opportunity of starting over, I want to go to the scriptures and show you a very vivid picture of what starting over looks like to God.

God uses much imagery in His word for the relationship between Him and us. As a Father and his children. As a shepherd and we as His sheep. As a husband, and the church as His bride.

We are going to take a close look at the portrait God uses several times in Scripture of The Potter and the Clay.

Genesis 2:7 (ESV)
then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature. 

Isaiah 64:8 (ESV)
But now, O Lord, you are our Father;
we are the clay, and you are our potter;
we are all the work of your hand.

Jeremiah 18:1-6 (NKJV) 1 The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying: 2 “Arise and go down to the potter’s house, and there I will cause you to hear My words.” 3 Then I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. 4 And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make.

5 Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying: 6 “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?” says the Lord. “Look, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!

The Potter
He has a purpose

Psalms 40:1-2 (NKJV)
1 I waited patiently for the Lord;
and He inclined to me,
and heard my cry.
2 He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
out of the miry clay,
and set my feet upon a rock,
and established my steps.

 

He has a plan

Psalm 139:13-14 (CSB)
13 For it was you who created my inward parts;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I will praise you
because I have been remarkably and wondrously made.
Your works are wondrous,
 and I know this very well.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

A. He Never Takes His Eyes off of HIs Creation

Psalm 139:15-16 (ESV)
15 My bones were not hidden from you
when I was made in secret,
when I was formed in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw me when I was formless;
all my days were written in your book and planned
before a single one of them began.   

 

B. He Never Takes His Mind off of His Creation

Psalm 139 (CSB)
1 Lord, you have searched me and known me.
2 You know when I sit down and when I stand up;
you understand my thoughts from far away.
3 You observe my travels and my rest;
you are aware of all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue,
you know all about it, Lord.

17 God, how precious your thoughts are to me;
how vast their sum is!
18 If I counted them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand;
when I wake up, I am still with you.

 

C. He Never Takes His Hands off of His Creation

Psalm 139:5-10  (ESV)
5 You have encircled me;
you have placed your hand on me.
6 This wondrous knowledge is beyond me.
It is lofty; I am unable to reach it.
7 Where can I go to escape your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to heaven, you are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.
9 If I fly on the wings of the dawn
and settle down on the western horizon,
10 even there your hand will lead me;
your right hand will hold on to me.

It is His hands that hold you….not your hands that hold Him!!

John 10:28-30 (ESV)
28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.30 I and the Father are one.”

The Wheel
The Clay must always be at the Center of the wheel 

Ephesians 6:12  (ESV)
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

The Water
The water is the Word

The Clay

Jeremiah 18:4 (NKJV)
And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make.

1 John 1:9  (ESV)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 

2 Corinthians 12:10  (ESV)
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

1 Peter 1:18-19  (ESV)
18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.

1 Peter 2:24  (ESV)
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 

Because of the the blood of Christ, Beauty can come from our brokenness.

God The Potter has a purpose and plan for you…the clay.

The piece of pottery can’t make itself, can’t form itself, can’t cure itself, and it certainly can’t fix itself.

But when that potter puts that clay onto the wheel and uses water to shape it and form it, He takes that worthless, lumpy, impure, and imperfect piece of clay and creates from it something of immense worth and value.

Every bit of that can only be done by the hands of the Master Potter!!

Ephesians 2:10  (ESV)
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

So, Have your own way Lord
Have your own way
You are the potter I am the clay
Mold me and make me after Thy will
While I am waiting yielded and still

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December 31, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 36

What does it say?
After Josiah’s death, there was a succession of evil kings. Despite God’s repeated warnings, the people turned away and were taken away into captivity.

What does it mean?
King Josiah’s life was dedicated to the spiritual restoration of God’s people. After his death, the nation lived under a succession of kings who did evil in the Lord’s eyes. God chose to respond with grace in the face of open, defiant sin. Even so, the people wouldn’t listen. The compassionate God, who very much wanted a relationship with His people, could no longer refrain from discipline. The punishment was severe but necessary to preserve His Name, the integrity of His chosen people, and His promise of a Messiah.

How should I respond?
How often is your first response anger rather than compassion? It can seem almost justified in the face of a great offense. But reacting in anger is not what God desires nor does it reflect His character. In what situations do you need to be more longsuffering with others as God was with Israel? How often has the Lord given you multiple chances to obey in areas regarding your thought life, entertainment choices, or sinful attitudes? God desires for His followers to show the same grace and mercy that He has shown to them.

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December 29, 2019

,

Read – Revelation 22

What does it say?
John continued his description of the Holy City, the New Jerusalem, with the river of the water of life flowing from the throne of God and the Lamb.

What does it mean?
John’s vision in the final chapter of Revelation paints a picture of God’s impending victory. Believers through the ages are participants in God’s incredible story – a story of redemption for whoever wishes to accept the free gift of the water of life. The Spirit of God and His bride, the church, invite all to come to Christ. The Lord Jesus promises that each one will be rewarded according to what he has done. His followers eagerly wait for the return of the victorious King, the Lamb of God who testifies, “I am coming soon.”

How should I respond?
What thoughts immediately come to mind when you read about Christ’s return? Are you ready, or are you overly focused on your own plans here and now? Jesus’ imminent return should propel us to be more mature in our faith with each passing day. Take a spiritual inventory to prepare for the coming year. What spiritual fruit would you like to experience in your life this year? Determine what must take place in order to get there. Take time in the new year to pray – asking God for the wisdom and strength to make those changes. Will you commit now to live this year in expectation of Christ’s return?

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December 30, 2023

,

Read – 2 Chronicles 35

What does it say?
Josiah led his people to celebrate the Passover as the nation remembered what the Lord had done for them in years past.

What does it mean?
The nation of Israel had long forgotten the Passover and their obligation to observe it. Now, energized by the re-discovery of the law, the people came together for a celebration so grand that its equal could be found only in Israel’s distant past. Specific attention was given to every detail. Most significant, however, was the fact that the celebration far exceeded the requirement of the law. Rather than observe Passover as a mere duty or ritual, the nation showed fervor and excitement in thanking God for His miraculous work. The people finally showed the passion for God He so richly deserved.

How should I respond?
In the busyness of life, it can be easy to take for granted all that God has done for us. Even the observance of holidays can be more about obligation and less about remembrance and refection. Simply going through the motions can rob us of the joy associated with special days. Have your holidays been a time of thankfulness and celebration? As you approach a new year, stop to reflect on how much you have to be thankful for. Make a list and set aside time specifically to praise and thank God. This year, recapture the joy of celebrating what He has done!

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December 28, 2019

,

Read – Revelation 21

What does it say?
God will create a new Heaven and a new Earth and eradicate pain and sorrow. He will make His dwelling place with mankind once again.

What does it mean?
God was there when the world began, and He will be there at the end. Soon after creation, Satan successfully introduced sin into the human race, and holy God departed from His dwelling place with His creation. Paradise was lost! Through pain and sorrow, mankind was forbidden to access the tree of life. But Satan’s success is only temporary. In Revelation 21, we see the end of the story. Satan is defeated, sin is banished, and God will return to dwell with mankind. Death, pain, and sorrow will be conquered forever. Fellowship with God will be restored – paradise regained!

How should I respond?
Have you ever wondered what living in the Garden of Eden would have been like? When sin entered the world, so did all kinds of heartache and pain. We can get so preoccupied with our earthly problems that we forget God has a magnificent plan for our eternal future – no more death, no more tears, no more pain! Until then, He intends for us to experience the abundant life He has planned for us right now. Are you missing out on the fullness of God’s wonderful plan for you today? The sorrows of life are certain, but remember that they are also temporary.

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December 29, 2023

,

Read – 2 Chronicles 34:14-33

What does it say?
Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law during the rebuilding of the Temple. As a result, the people began to deal with their longstanding disobedience.

What does it mean?
God’s people were so far removed from obedience that they had even lost the sacred law He gave them to live by. The Book of the Law was the heartbeat of the nation and its discovery sent shock waves throughout the kingdom. This momentous occasion humbled the people and reminded them of a long-forgotten truth: God always requires obedience to His commands. With the re-institution of the practices of the law, restoration of the kingdom began. The people could finally worship and obey God the way that He desired.

How should I respond?
Being confronted with our own disobedience can be sobering – especially when we weren’t aware that we were doing wrong. However, a lack of awareness does not absolve us of our responsibility. God has given us His Word to teach us what He requires. Also, He has given us the Holy Spirit to instruct us and give us the power to do what is right. How diligently do you search Scripture to learn God’s character and His commands? Are you hoping to find leniency through simple ignorance of God’s Word? It is impossible to live an abundant, fruitful Christian life apart from God’s revelation of Himself through the Bible. What effect will Scripture have on you today?

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December 27, 2019

,

Read – Revelation 20

What does it say?
Jesus will rule on the earth for one thousand years, and then Satan will be cast into Hell and vanquished for eternity. The Great White Throne Judgment will then take place.

What does it mean?
During Christ’s thousand-year reign, Satan will be imprisoned, unable to have any influence on the earth, while those who were martyred during the Tribulation will be raised from the dead to reign with Christ. When Satan is released after the Millennium, he will deceive the nations to attack Jerusalem. But the Lord will protect the city and devour Satan and his forces. John then saw Christ at the Great White Throne Judgment. Those whose names are written in the Book of Life will be eternally saved, but those whose names were written only in the various books recording their deeds on the earth will be judged and cast into the lake of fire.

How should I respond?
It is only by God’s grace that your name can be written in the Book of Life. Christianity is the only message that doesn’t tell you to work your way to God. Instead, God Himself took your place and paid the penalty for your sinful state so you could be covered by His perfect righteousness. Our good deeds and works will not be enough to save us from eternal judgment. As a believer, your good works are the result of the Holy Spirit’s work inside of you. They are evidence of salvation, not a means to it. Have you placed your faith in the gracious gift of Christ’s sacrifice? Is your name recorded in the Book of Life?

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December 28, 2023

,

Read – 2 Chronicles 34:1-13

What does it say?
For 31 years Josiah reigned in Jerusalem and did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He cleansed the land of idols and restored the temple.

What does it mean?
For many years the kings of Israel led the nation into various forms of idolatry. The landscape, once defined by the unmatched splendor of the house of God, was now littered with idols and pagan altars of worship. Josiah’s radical approach to the elimination of these abominations showed that his heart was dedicated to ridding the nation of anything that offended God. But true change meant not only the complete elimination of everything that drew the people away from God but also the restoration of the only legitimate house of worship – the temple of the Lord.

How should I respond?
Dealing with spiritual distractions can be difficult. It’s easy to believe that ignoring them is enough. Like Josiah, we need to recognize that any form of sin that isn’t completely removed represents a future opportunity to sin. What temptation needs to be removed from your life with the focus and intensity shown by Josiah? Any habit you remove needs to be replaced with a new one: set aside time for daily Bible study and prayer, join a small group, or find a place to volunteer in your church. Though this kind of commitment is challenging, the effect on your relationship with God will be life-changing.

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December 26, 2019

,

Read – Revelation 19

What does it say?
When Jesus returns to the earth to defeat his enemies, there is a great celebration in Heaven.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage lays out the final outcome for the righteous and for the ungodly. The faithful will be united with Christ followed by a celebration, praising God both for His defeat of the religious system that had corrupted the world and for the marriage of Christ and His bride, the saints. On Palm Sunday Jesus rode humbly into Jerusalem on a donkey, but He will return as the majestic King of the earth. The saints will be adorned in the cleanest and whitest of linens to signify their purity. Their righteousness is not their own – but the righteousness of Christ given to them by God Himself.

How should I respond?
Do you get upset when you find out the ending to a story before finishing a book? Knowing the victorious ending to God’s story in human history gives us the ability to have an unwavering hope and anticipation for what is to come. Yet we cannot wrap our minds around the significance of what it means to be truly clothed in His righteousness. Are you counting on your own good deeds to get into Heaven? Our righteous acts “are like filthy rags” in God’s sight (Isaiah 64:6). It’s only by accepting Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross that you’re covered in His righteousness. Are you dressed for the wedding?

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December 27, 2023

,

Read – 2 Chronicles 33

What does it say?
Manasseh led Judah into more evil than the nations God had destroyed before them. But Manasseh humbled himself before the Lord after he was taken prisoner by Assyria.

What does it mean?
Manasseh thought he could live any way he chose. But God loves His children too much to allow open rebellion against His name and against what is best for them. By disregarding God’s correcting words, Manasseh also rejected God’s promises and His presence. So the Lord brought about the most humbling circumstance possible in the life of a king – being led away captive by a hook in his nose. It wasn’t until Manasseh hit rock bottom that he sought the Lord. However, Manasseh’s repentance couldn’t wipe away years of influence, and his son Amon continued his evil lifestyle as king.

How should I respond?
God’s Word provides us with comfort and reveals His character and promises. Scripture also convicts us of sin, pointing out where we’re out of sync with God’s expressed will. When we disregard His Word and choose sin over obedience, God may allow difficult circumstances to grab our attention. The allure of sin can be so strong that we often don’t look to Him until other things have been taken away. Have you tried to ignore the Lord’s correction in your life? Humbly ask His forgiveness right now, change your course, and experience His presence. Why wait for Him to humble you?

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December 25, 2019

,

Read – Psalms 145

What does it say?
David proclaims the magnitude of God’s goodness and generosity.

What does it mean?
The true nature of God’s greatness was beyond David’s finite understanding, so he praised what he knew of the Lord’s works and characteristics from his own life experiences. His knowledge of God’s grace, compassion, and love were gained through times of heartbreaking difficulty and agonizing repentance of sin. He could speak firsthand of God’s provision and faithfulness from countless days on the run for his life. The Lord had been right there, watching over David through every sleepless night and in every cry for help. Everything God had done or allowed in David’s life was loving and right. David had a close personal relationship with God and had reason to praise Him personally, but he didn’t stop there. God’s greatness deserved to be praised by all men through every generation; so David wrote this psalm of praise so that the Lord’s majesty, goodness, righteousness, and holiness would be praised forever and ever.

How should I respond?
For the child of God every circumstance and experience serves one purpose: to know the Lord and to make Him known. Through King David’s words of praise we learn God’s qualities and how He interacts with people in light of those characteristics. As we follow Christ and grow to know Him better, we, in turn, should tell others how His love, grace, and goodness have been shown to us. The charge to each generation of believers is to know the Lord intimately and praise Him openly. How will you make Him known today?

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December 26, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 32:24-33

What does it say?
Hezekiah repented of pride after the Lord miraculously answered his prayer to save his life from a serious illness. God tested Hezekiah’s heart after he had succeeded at much.

What does it mean?
Even though Hezekiah ruled over Judah as a godly king, he struggled with pride. After all, his wealth required great storehouses. Also, the Lord had given him a miraculous sign that his life would be extended 15 years after his life-threatening illness (2 Kings 20). It was evident to all that Hezekiah was blessed and protected by his God. But the Lord withdrew His Spirit from Hezekiah when he displayed to envoys from Babylon all the treasures of his storehouses, revealing a foolish and prideful heart. Hezekiah came face-to-face with the reality of who he was without the Lord’s wisdom and guidance.

How should I respond?
Your Achilles heel may not be pride, as Hezekiah’s was, but we each deal with some kind of sin issue that tends to bubble to the surface repeatedly. Without the guidance and conviction of the Holy Spirit, that sin could subtly take control – even while you are successfully serving the Lord. So how can you protect yourself from yourself? First, recognize the issue, and call it what it is – sin. Then, submit your heart and mind to the Holy Spirit daily, asking God to convict you when you’re out of step with Him. Ask His forgiveness and move on.

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December 24, 2019

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Read – Psalms 144

What does it say?
David praised the Lord as his Rock and asked God to scatter his enemies. The people whose God is the Lord are blessed.

What does it mean?
David was a man of war throughout his life. From past encounters with the wild predators that attacked his father’s flocks to his defeat of Goliath and all the enemy armies of Israel, he realized that victory had come from God, preparing him, strengthening him, and delivering him. His awe of the fact that the God of the universe would care about him and his problems caused his worship to be elevated to a new level. David envisioned a time of peace that could come only as a result of God’s blessing, love, and mighty power.

How should I respond?
Has your life been touched by war, illness, or death? Perhaps you’ve had a cycle of job loss, moves, or difficulties with children. David reminds us that God is interested in the details of our lives and intervenes on our behalf. Can you trace how He’s reached down to lift you back up time and time again? How has the Lord used something from your past to prepare you to handle today’s challenges? Spend a few minutes thanking the Lord for how He has helped you and ask Him for guidance for your future. Place your trust in the Creator of the universe, and your life will be marked by His grace, power, and love. Troubles may repeat themselves, but so does God’s faithfulness.

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December 25, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 32:1-23

What does it say?
Assyria invaded Judah and compared the Lord to the gods of other conquered nations. God annihilated their forces after Hezekiah and Isaiah cried out to Heaven for help.

What does it mean?
It’s interesting to note what King Hezekiah did as he faced the greatest challenge of his reign. First, he consulted with his officials and officers to secure the city. Next, he took time to encourage the people by reminding them that Assyria’s vast army was powerless against the Lord God. Then, with the prophet of the Lord at his side, Hezekiah cried out to God – the One insulted by Assyria’s blasphemous words. Hezekiah planned and worked as if everything depended on him, but he trusted and prayed as if everything depended on the Lord.

How should I respond?
We each have a crisis mode that kicks in when things start to go wrong. The people we surround ourselves with during those moments may determine how well we handle the situation. First, ask God to direct you to people who are knowledgeable about your particular challenge and can lay out practical steps of action. Next, don’t forget to encourage others who are facing the crisis with you. Reminding them that God is in control keeps you focused on Him as well. Finally, and most important of all, confide in a godly prayer partner. Unlike those outside of Christ, you can have full confidence in the power of God to see the situation, hear your prayers for help, and act on your behalf.

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December 23, 2019

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Read – Revelation 18

What does it say?
John saw an angel announcing that God will destroy Babylon for its many sins.

What does it mean?
The city of Babylon described by John is representative of the most influential political and commercial system of the world. God will bring destruction to this city for a number of reasons. It is a place filled with demonic activity, immorality, materialism, pride, deception, and slavery. God will command His people to evacuate before He destroys the city. Believers will be spared and rejoice with gratitude and praise. The unsaved, however, will be in despair when they lose all of their material belongings.

How should I respond?
Materialism is one of the biggest hindrances to having an eternal perspective and a true sense of your identity. While material success is not innately harmful, it can feed pride and cause insecurity if you look to it for fulfillment and self-worth. God created you in His image, giving you dignity and worth – nothing is more valuable than that. When your focus is on what the world has to offer, you miss out on God’s plans for you. God wants to develop Christ’s character in you and give you fulfilling work to do. If you look at the world from God’s perspective, material things hold less value and significance. What do you look to for a sense of identity? Will your perspective be temporal or eternal today?

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Beauty in the Broken: Mary

2023-12-24

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The Christmas story is found in a number of places within the Scriptures, but none more recognized than Luke’s account. Over the past two millenia, the world has often heard the Luke 2 narrative describing the arrival of God’s greatest gift. Luke helps us understand his purpose in recording these events in Luke 1:3 So it also seemed good to me, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in an orderly sequence, most honorable Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things about which you have been instructed.

Today, however, I’d like to focus on one particular portion of Luke’s narrative of the birth of Christ which is referred to as the “Magnificat,” the song of Mary.

Luke 1:46-55 (CSB)  ”And Mary said: My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, because he has looked with favor on the humble condition of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed, because the Mighty One has done great things for me, and his name is holy. His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear him. He has done a mighty deed with his arm; he has scattered the proud because of the thoughts of their hearts; he has toppled the mighty from their thrones and exalted the lowly. He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering his mercy to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he spoke to our ancestors.“

  1. Favor in our fear

Vs 46b-48a  My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, because he has looked with favor on the humble condition of his servant.

  • Finding favor in our fear begins with worship
  • Mary’s declaration of exalting God rather than self, even in her situation is an indication of why God chose her in the first place
  • In the midst of a fearful situation God extended favor to Mary, He does the same with us
  • The Jews in Galilee, certainly in Nazareth, were hated because they were considered to be unclean, non-kosher, because of their close proximity to the Gentiles1. It is interesting that from this area, Mary was chosen. The opening words to her song clearly indicate Mary is the right choice.

  1. Strength in our weakness

Vss 49-50 because the Mighty One has done great things for me, and his name is holy. His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear him

  • Our hope is found in trusting His strength, not our own
  • 2 Cor. 12 tells us, “my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”
  • Warren Wiersbe said, “Not only was God mindful of her, but He was also mighty for her, working on her behalf.” [1]

  1. Protection from the proud

Vss 51-52 He has done a mighty deed with his arm; he has scattered the proud because of the thoughts of their hearts; he has toppled the mighty from their thrones and exalted the lowly.

  • Verse 51 echoes Isaiah 53:1 which is an OT declaration of the baby which is now present in Mary’s womb – “with his arm”
    • Isaiah 53:1 Who has believed what we have heard?

And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?

  • His protection is guaranteed
  • Proverbs 16:5, 18 – Pride destroys
  • Psalm 138:6 For though the Lord is high, He regards the lowly
  • Matthew 23:12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted
  1. Provision in our pain

Vs 53 He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty.

  • “He has satisfied the hungry…” is a clear statement of the provision only God can give
  • The message is that only God can fill the void within our lives though mankind is constantly attempting to fill the void with every imaginable thing

This Christmas, Bethlehem is a strangely silent. What are normally the busiest days of the year for this small town just a few short miles from Jerusalem are now the quietest. Why? Because the world has lost sight of the giver of peace.

Father Spiridon Sammour, a Greek Orthodox priest at the Church of the Nativity said this week – “I have never seen it like this…Christmas is joy, love and peace. We have no peace. We have no joy.[2]”

Any time people look for joy and peace in anything other than the Prince of Peace they are left wanting. As Mary stated even before His birth, Jesus is Savior, Jesus is Peace!

[1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 173.

[2] https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/24/middleeast/bethlehem-christmas-gaza-war-intl/index.html

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December 24, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 31

What does it say?
The people responded generously to Hezekiah’s command to contribute to the temple. He was obedient to the Lord, leading the people to do what was good and right.

What does it mean?
Hezekiah’s life was changed as a result of experiencing the presence of the Lord in worship (2 Chron. 30). Spiritual revival continued in Judah because they finally had a king who desired to serve the Lord. Judah’s revival was more than a temporary emotional high. The results were evident in Hezekiah’s life. He was obedient to God’s laws and commands, faithfully doing what was good and right in the eyes of the Lord and wholeheartedly seeking God in every undertaking. As Hezekiah led by example, the people responded immediately and generously

How should I respond?
At some point, you may have come home from a church camp or retreat with new spiritual fervor, but what were the results months later? Experiencing the presence of God results in lasting life change. Are you currently in need of spiritual renewal? Take a quick inventory: (1) How obedient are you to God’s commands in Scripture? (2) Do you follow the Holy Spirit’s prompting to do the right thing, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable? (3) How much time do you spend wholeheartedly seeking the Lord before starting a new venture? True revival is a change in perspective about God that brings lasting effects to every aspect of our thinking and behavior.

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December 22, 2019

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Read – Revelation 17

What does it say?
John saw a mysterious woman riding a beast with seven heads and ten horns.

What does it mean?
John used strong, metaphorical language to describe this disturbing vision. The woman represents a wicked religious system that will align itself with a godless political system. This corrupt and materialistic “church” will blaspheme the one true God and take the lives of many believers. The kings and kingdoms with which she associates will end up destroying her, but ultimate victory belongs to Jesus. As the Lamb of God, He has the ability to atone for sin. As the King of kings, He has the power to overcome His enemies. And as the Lord of lords, He is the only One worthy to be worshipped.

How should I respond?
Americans don’t have the most realistic perspective on what comprises the title “king.” We know what we read in history books and fairy tales, but we have never personally been under the authority of a human king. Does your worship of God reflect an awareness of His great majesty and power? What areas of your life are you trying to control instead of submitting to Him as Lord and King? Take a moment and reflect on the glorious characteristics of God as King, and ask Him to help you surrender the things in your life that keep you from worshipping Him alone.

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December 23, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 30

What does it say?
Hezekiah challenged the people to return to the Lord and celebrate Passover in Jerusalem. Many ridiculed the invitation, but a large crowd celebrated for 14 days.

What does it mean?
Hezekiah wanted everyone to have the joy of restored fellowship with the Lord that he had experienced when the temple was reopened. There were three responses to his Passover invitation. Some ridiculed the message and quickly discarded the idea while others humbly came. But the people of Judah who had witnessed the temple opening overwhelmingly followed the Word of the Lord as given by their king. The result was the greatest spiritual revival since the days of Solomon. They were so accustomed to living a disobedient lifestyle that they had forgotten the joy and fulfillment of living for God.

How should I respond?
Our country is in desperate need of spiritual revival. We’re quick to agree that those outside of Christ live in disobedience to God, but what about those of us who claim to follow Him? The word “revival” implies a renewed interest, giving God our full attention. So what does it take to experience spiritual revival? We have to be challenged by the truth of God’s Word and respond with genuine repentance in areas of unfaithfulness. Those who mock God’s invitation to live in obedience sadly miss the joy of genuine worship and unity with other believers. What area of your life is in need of renewed spiritual attention? Respond to God’s invitation and start a personal revival today.

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December 21, 2019

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Read – Revelation 16

What does it say?
John saw a vision of seven angels pouring out seven vials of God’s final judgment over the earth.

What does it mean?
In this passage, we see God’s judgment being poured out in the form of seven different plagues: sores, the turning of water to blood, scorching heat, darkness, the drying up of the Euphrates River, earthquakes, and hail storms. Even after each of these judgments, the people remain unrepentant and unresponsive to God’s “final call.”

How should I respond?
Horrific events and tragedy exist as an unfortunate part of our fallen world. Life holds disasters – both natural and unnatural – that sometimes turn our lives upside down. In those moments, you have the choice of turning to God or turning away from Him. You can either rely on His character and His promise that He will always be with you, or you can turn away from Him in rebellion with no hope of peace. It’s often easy to point fingers at God when tragedy strikes and blame Him for the evil that we see happening in the world. However, we must remember that it is man who is tainted by evil, not God. When disasters and times of brokenness enter your life, ask God to make His presence known to you and to use the trial to bring you into a more intimate relationship with Him.

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December 22, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 29

What does it say?
Hezekiah consecrated the temple and reestablished its service when he became king.

What does it mean?
Hezekiah chose to serve the Lord even though Ahaz his father had never offered a godly example. The young king recognized the correlation between Israel’s past unfaithfulness and its present captivity. Hezekiah’s first priority as king was to restore Israel’s house of worship and reestablish sacrifices and offerings in the temple. But no one could approach the Lord until the priests removed the impure items and consecrated the articles Ahaz had removed from the temple for use in the worship of false gods. Hezekiah led the people in the longest period of obedience in the Old Testament.

How should I respond?
Our families play a huge part in the people we become. However, the ultimate responsibility for choosing whether or not to follow Christ rests on each one of us. The Lord will never force you to be faithful or obedient to Him. What is hindering you from following and worshiping God? Have you accepted Christ’s sacrifice for you? If so, your body is the temple of the Lord. What areas of your temple have fallen into disrepair? What needs to be cleaned out and replaced with things that honor and please Christ? Not only will your personal choice to follow Christ be a benefit to you, it can also have a huge influence on others. What example will you set? The choice is yours.

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December 20, 2019

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Read – Revelation 15

What does it say?
John saw seven angels prepare to place seven more judgments on the earth. He heard songs of praise to God being sung by those who were victorious over the Antichrist.

What does it mean?
The seven bowls of wrath poured out by the angels represent God’s final judgment on the earth. John’s vision then changes to a host of people standing on a sea of fire and glass singing praises to God, not just about what He has done, but about who He is. Their song is filled with words of honor, praising God for His justice, eternality, holiness, and righteousness. The temple, beaming with the glory of God and radiating with His power, is opened and seven angels come out. Each angel is given a bowl of God’s wrath to pour out over the earth. No one was allowed into the temple until the plagues of the seven angels were completed.

How should I respond?
Have you ever experienced God in such a significant way that you were literally speechless? Our conversations about God tend to focus on what He’s done for us rather than on who He is. Take a moment to focus your thoughts on the glory of God. Read back over today’s passage and spend a moment praising Him for the characteristics that reveal Him as God. He is holy. He is just. He is unchanging. He is righteous. He is faithful. He is King. How do His qualities change your perspective today?

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December 21, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 28

What does it say?
King Ahaz did what was wrong in the eyes of the Lord, so God handed Ahaz and his army over to his enemies. However, his enemies were also rebuked for their sin.

What does it mean?
Israel and Judah had become enemies, even though both nations were God’s people. While God used Israel to punish Judah for their sin, Israel was not much better. After their military victory, Israel went too far by enslaving the women and children of Judah. God never intended for His people to enslave one another. This kind of behavior shows up over and over in the Old Testament; God would raise up an enemy to punish His people, but then the enemy nation would grow prideful and take their vengeance too far.

How should I respond?
Do you gloat when your enemies are in trouble? Do you smile when someone who has been unkind to you is hurt in some way? God will ultimately bring justice, but for now, He calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matt. 5:43-48). Instead of wishing them harm, pray that God would help them see the truth and do what is right. The greatest stories of people’s lives being turned around often begin with unexpected forgiveness and end with a complete spiritual transformation. Forgive others the way you would want to be forgiven (Matt. 18:21-35).

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December 19, 2019

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Read – Revelation 14

What does it say?
John saw a vision of those who will be redeemed singing praise to God. He saw a preview of the day Christ will return to the earth to bring final defeat to all of His enemies.

What does it mean?
The two groups of people in this passage are distinguished by the marks on their foreheads, displaying their allegiance to either Christ or the Antichrist. The ones standing with Jesus on Mount Zion are the 144,000 sealed saints of God that will come through the Great Tribulation and be presented to God as a righteous harvest, a special gift to God. But anyone with the mark of the beast will be ripe for harvest – under the full wrath of God for their rejection of truth and of Jesus Christ.

How should I respond?
We don’t hesitate to show our allegiance to our favorite sports teams by proudly displaying their logo on a shirt, hat, or bumper sticker. Yet we often shy away from things that would identify us to the world as Christians. As time goes on, those of us who profess faith in Jesus will pay a heavier price in this life for our allegiance to Christ. There will come a time when anyone who follows Jesus will be clearly identified from those who do not. The time of His return is drawing near. How willing are you to boldly proclaim your faith in Jesus Christ today?

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December 20, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 27

What does it say?
Jotham did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, so God blessed Jotham as he began a rebuilding program and subdued the Ammonites.

What does it mean?
The biographers of the kings of Judah and Israel rated the kings according to the degree that they did what was right in the Lord’s eyes. Even the most successful kings tended to fall short when it came to tearing down the places of idol worship in the highest hills in the country. From the short account of Jotham’s reign in this chapter, we see that overall, Jotham did what was right in the Lord’s eyes, but the people continued to worship the idols of the foreign gods in the high places. Even while God blessed Jotham’s rebuilding and military efforts, God was displeased with His people’s idolatry

How should I respond?
What would a short biography of your life include? Would the writer find you fully pursuing God? Would there be evidence that God blessed your pursuit of Him? Spend a few minutes taking a “spiritual inventory” of your life. What areas of compromise do you need to bring before the Lord in prayer? Talk to Him about it humbly and sincerely. Ask God to help you turn that part of your life around so you can follow Him without wavering. Choose to live today as if every motive and action were recorded for posterity.

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December 18, 2019

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Read – Psalms 142-143

What does it say?
Overwhelmed, alone, and crushed by his enemies, David prayed for victory, guidance, and a heart that pleased God.

What does it mean?
Although these psalms were written at different points in David’s life, he was facing a familiar problem. In Psalm 142 Saul was trying to kill David, while in Psalm 143 it was his own son Absalom who threatened his life. During both times his overwhelming feelings of desperation, weakness, and hopelessness made these prayers very similar – until a major difference emerges in 143:5. God’s faithfulness in the first situation gave David confidence in God’s goodness and unfailing love in his present circumstance. David’s outlook changed when he remembered how the Lord had delivered previously. He not only envisioned what God could do for him – he had experienced it before.

How should I respond?
Every challenge you face offers an opportunity to learn more about who God is and how He acts on behalf of those who trust Him. What current situation in your life has left you feeling overwhelmed or defeated? If you’re a mature believer, look back on other situations that seemed hopeless. How did the Lord strengthen you through those struggles? If you’re a relatively new Christian, ask God to open your eyes so you can see how much He loves you. Today, remember that God specializes in turning hopeless situations into amazing opportunities to showcase His goodness, wisdom, and power.

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December 19, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 26

What does it say?
King Uzziah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. God blessed Uzziah, and he prospered. However, when Uzziah grew prideful, God humbled him with a skin disease.

What does it mean?
Uzziah (also called “Azariah” in 2 Kings 15:1-7) followed God’s ways, so God blessed him with a long, successful reign of fifty-two years. He subjugated four enemies, promoted farming in the hills and fertile plains of the land, and built up military defenses to strengthen the land. However, Uzziah’s success led to arrogance, and his arrogance led to his downfall. When he usurped the duties of the Levitical priests in the Temple, God caused Uzziah to develop a skin disease, which made him unclean to be in the Temple or even near his people.

How should I respond?
It feels great when we are following the Lord, and things seem to be going right for us. Today’s passage serves as a warning against arrogantly thinking that we are the cause of our own success. James reminds us that every blessing is from God (James 1:17). Therefore, we ought to be thankful to Him for every good thing that happens. Think about the blessings in your life. Each time God brings one to your mind, say, “Thank you, Lord, for ________.” Keeping a gratitude list will guard your heart against pride and arrogance. Start your list now with at least five things you are thankful for.

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December 17, 2019

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Read – Psalms 140-141

What does it say?
David talked with God about the dangers he faced at the hands of his enemies and conveyed his desire to avoid evil deeds.

What does it mean?
David made two major decisions in facing his enemies. First, he trusted God to intervene and take care of those who mistreated him. Turning to God allowed David to release the emotions he was experiencing and depend on God to act. Secondly, David took his eyes off his circumstances and focused them firmly on his God. He wanted to respond in the right way and recognized the need for God to enable him to do so. He sought God’s help to protect his heart from desiring to do wrong things or joining forces with the wrong people.

How should I respond?
It’s so easy to respond in the wrong way when faced with difficult people. But God has not changed; He can still be trusted to intervene in your life when people mistreat you. How will you respond when people treat you unfairly? Will you seek revenge or turn to God? Will you join them in rebelling against His Word, or will you commit to complete obedience to Christ? If you choose to keep your focus on God, then you will be able to respond as David did. Ask God right now to protect your thoughts and desires as you interact with the people who come across your path today.

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December 18, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 25

What does it say?
Amaziah, the ninth king of Judah, ruled in Jerusalem for 29 years with half-hearted service to the Lord.

What does it mean?
The kings of Judah were praised when they followed the Lord, but God punished the kings who worshiped idols, as Amaziah did with the Edomite gods he brought to Jerusalem. God used prophets to instruct Amaziah in His ways, but in the end, Amaziah struggled with pride and lost focus on what God had planned for him. By the end of his reign, the walls protecting the capital city of Jerusalem had been torn down, and Amaziah was assassinated.

How should I respond?
God has put all of us in authority over something (a company, a family, or even our own property). He expects us to be responsible with what we have and show Him thankfulness as we discover how to take care of the resources and people He has entrusted to us. Think of three things, people, or groups God has given to your care. What resources has He supplied for you to use? Who can advise you on how to move forward? Today, thank God for what He has placed under your authority. Then ask Him how you can best take care of them. He will supply everything you need to do the job well.

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December 16, 2019

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Read – Revelation 13

What does it say?
John saw a vision of two beasts coming up from the sea and from the earth. The first beast blasphemed God, and the other beast made all people worship the first.

What does it mean?
Satan will elevate and empower two leaders to deter as many people as possible from a relationship with God. These leaders are understood to be the Antichrist and the False Prophet. The Antichrist will have a great deal of influence in the world and will be viewed as an intellectual, political, and religious leader by most people. The False Prophet will set out to ensure that the Antichrist is worshipped as God. While it is unknown who these men will be, one thing is certain – Satan will use them to persecute believers and manipulate people all over the world through political, economic and religious power.

How should I respond?
The religious climate in our society has steadily decreased over recent decades, leaving little resemblance to “one nation, under God.” The stage is being set for the world to embrace the Antichrist, although Scripture warns us that his spirit is already at work in the world (1 John 4:1-3). The spirit of antichrist rejects the truth of God’s Word and Jesus as God’s Son. How might you have been influenced by ungodly views on money, power, or religion? How much time do you spend studying the truths of God so you can detect error? Satan can’t take your salvation, but he can distract you from God’s Word, God’s work, and God’s people.

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Beauty in the Broken: Bathsheba

2023-12-17

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

2 Samuel 11:1-5 (CSB) In the spring when kings march out to war, David sent Joab with his officers and all Israel. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah, but David remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David got up from his bed and strolled around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing—a very beautiful woman. 3 So David sent someone to inquire about her, and he said, “Isn’t this Bathsheba, daughter of Eliam and wife of Uriah the Hethite?” 4 David sent messengers to get her, and when she came to him, he slept with her. Now she had just been purifying herself from her uncleanness. Afterward, she returned home. 5 The woman conceived and sent word to inform David, “I am pregnant.”

So what are some lessons from Bathsheba’s experience which reflect how God brings beauty from our brokenness?

1. Resilience

2 Samuel 12:14b -15 …because you treated the Lord with such contempt in this matter, the son born to you will die.” 15 Then Nathan went home. The Lord struck the baby that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became deathly ill.

  • David was confronted by Nathan for his sin against Bathsheba and his sin against Uriah
  • Bathsheba endured unimaginable pain as a result of David’s sin. She lost her husband and she lost her son.
  • Bathsheba remained steadfast through all of this and God gave her comfort

2. Restoration

2 Samuel 12:24-25 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba; he went to her and slept with her. She gave birth to a son and named him Solomon., The Lord loved him, 25 and he sent a message through the prophet Nathan, who named him Jedidiah, because of the Lord.

  • Solomon (šĕlōmô) means ,“His [Yahweh’s] Restoration/Peace”[1]
  • Jedidiah (ydidyah) means “beloved of Yahweh”
  • Solomon (šĕlōmô) means ,“His [Yahweh’s] Restoration/Peace”[1]
  • Jedidiah (ydidyah) means “beloved of Yahweh”
  • God confirmed through Nathan that He loved this child and this child would carry out God’s plan
  • While the son born of sin had died, God gave another son

Warren Wiersbe says, “It was God who caused the conception to occur and who saw to it that the baby would have the “genetic structure” that he would need to accomplish God’s will (Ps. 139:13–16)… Every time David and Bathsheba looked at Solomon, his very presence reminded them that God had forgiven their past and guaranteed their plans for the future.”[2]

[1] Robert D. Bergen, 1, 2 Samuel, vol. 7, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1996), 376.

[2] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Restored, “Be” Commentary Series (Colorado Springs, CO: Victor, 2002), 76.

 

3. Determination

1 Kings 1:11-13 Then Nathan said to Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, “Have you not heard that Adonijah son of Haggith has become king and our lord David does not know it? 12 Now please come and let me advise you. Save your life and the life of your son Solomon. 13 Go, approach King David and say to him, ‘My lord the king, did you not swear to your servant: Your son Solomon is to become king after me, and he is the one who is to sit on my throne? So why has Adonijah become king?’

  • Nathan, the prophet of God, reminded Bathsheba of God’s declaration over Solomon and David’s statement he would be king
  • While David was now very old and close to death. The passage hints that David had basically let go of the reigns of leadership and his fourth born son, Adonijah, usurped David’s throne.
  • Bathsheba went to the king and reminded him of God’s plan and David’s promise

1 Kings 1:28-30 King David responded by saying, “Call in Bathsheba for me.” So she came into the king’s presence and stood before him. 29 The king swore an oath and said, “As the Lord lives, who has redeemed my life from every difficulty, 30 just as I swore to you by the Lord God of Israel: Your son Solomon is to become king after me, and he is the one who is to sit on my throne in my place, that is exactly what I will do this very day.”

 

4. Discernment

1 Kings 2:13-25 Now Adonijah son of Haggith came to Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother. She asked, “Do you come peacefully?” “Peacefully,” he replied, 14 and then asked, “May I talk with you?”  “Go ahead,” she answered. 15 “You know the kingship was mine,” he said. “All Israel expected me to be king, but then the kingship was turned over to my brother, for the Lord gave it to him. 16 So now I have just one request of you; don’t turn me down.” She said to him, “Go on.” 17 He replied, “Please speak to King Solomon since he won’t turn you down. Let him give me Abishag the Shunammite as a wife.” 18 “Very well,” Bathsheba replied. “I will speak to the king for you.” 19 So Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him about Adonijah. The king stood up to greet her, bowed to her, sat down on his throne, and had a throne placed for the king’s mother. So she sat down at his right hand. 20 Then she said, “I have just one small request of you. Don’t turn me down.” “Go ahead and ask, mother,” the king replied, “for I won’t turn you down.” 21 So she said, “Let Abishag the Shunammite be given to your brother Adonijah as a wife.” 22 King Solomon answered his mother, “Why are you requesting Abishag the Shunammite for Adonijah? Since he is my elder brother, you might as well ask the kingship for him, for the priest Abiathar, and for Joab son of Zeruiah.”, 23 Then King Solomon took an oath by the Lord: “May God punish me and do so severely if Adonijah has not made this request at the cost of his life. 24 And now, as the Lord lives—the one who established me, seated me on the throne of my father David, and made me a dynasty as he promised—I swear Adonijah will be put to death today!” 25 Then King Solomon dispatched Benaiah son of Jehoiada, who struck down Adonijah, and he died.

  • It is unlikely that Bathsheba was unaware of the consequences of giving Adonijah David’s last concubine. It is more likely she was very aware of Adonijah’s plan to challenge Solomon’s authority by having David’s wife as his own.
  • Thus, it is likely Bathsheba clearly discerned Adonijah’s power play and sought to put it down to protect her son, the rightful king
  • Bathsheba rose from the wife of an infantryman to become the wife of the king, and later the queen mother, who lived in the palace and helped protect the line which would lead to the Messiah.

Application:

  1. Never forget that today’s tragedies can lead to tomorrow’s victories
  2. The harm others cause you should not define your future, that’s God’s job
  3. Stay forever focused on God’s plans and promises for you

[1] Robert D. Bergen, 1, 2 Samuel, vol. 7, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1996), 376.

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December 17, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 24:17-27

What does it say?
King Joash abandoned God, and his life ended at the hands of his own officials

What does it mean?
King Joash’s devotion to God quickly vanished after the death of Jehoiada, the High Priest. In the absence of his mentor, Joash was easily swayed by the influence of the wrong people. He “listened to them” and stopped listening to God. Rather than standing strong in his faith, he chose to disobey the Lord and worship other gods. As a result, the peace Joash had grown accustomed to ended. God mercifully reached out to Joash, warning him of the consequences of his sinful actions. But Joash ignored God’s words.

How should I respond?
Healthy relationships are marked by a desire to please one another. The same is true of your relationship with Christ. Beware of any influence that encourages thoughts and actions that displease the Lord. God will do whatever it takes to draw you back, but He will not force you to obey. To what wrong influences are you listening? What sin have you allowed to create a barrier between you and God? Remember, the depth of your faith is measured by your level of obedience.

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December 15, 2019

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Read – Revelation 12

What does it say?
Satan has temporary reign on the earth, but God has defeated him and his influence.

What does it mean?
There are several points to notice about Satan in this passage. First, he is a vicious murderer and the deceiver of the world – a role he has taken on since his appearance as a serpent in the Garden of Eden. Even in Heaven, he deceived a certain percentage of the angels who were cast out of God’s presence with him when they decided to rebel against God. There is no question that Satan is regarded as a malicious enemy who hates both God and God’s people. However, the Lord has pronounced protection of His children and ultimate victory over the enemy.

How should I respond?
We can take great comfort in knowing that God has already defeated Satan at the Cross, freeing believers from the penalty and power of sin. But we must not be naïve to the presence and influence of sin that will remain until we reach Heaven. It takes only a quick glance at the headlines to understand the very real presence of evil in the world. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6 that we “wrestle against the spiritual forces of evil” and stresses the necessity of putting on the armor of God as protection. You don’t need to fear the schemes of the devil, but be mindful of utilizing the spiritual armor God has given you. What influence of the enemy do you need to combat in your life today?

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December 16, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 24:1-16

What does it say?
Joash repaired the temple and served the Lord during Jehoiada’s lifetime

What does it mean?
Joash trusted Jehoiada and was heavily influenced by his guidance. However, their relationship was tested when Jehoiada was slow to act on Joash’s command to collect money for the temple renovation. As High Priest, Jehoiada’s response was crucial to the success of the project. In fact, it was Jehoiada’s influence that led to Joash’s desire to please the Lord in the first place. Joash’s willingness to confront his mentor led to overflowing generosity by the people and the fulfillment of God’s plan to repair His house.

How should I respond?
Who are the trusted influencers in your life? How do you respond when one of them doesn’t agree with where God is leading you? It takes courage and discipline to slow down and seek God’s direction. It is important to seek godly counsel, but ultimately you must listen for God’s voice. How is the Lord using Scripture to guide you? How much time do you spend in prayer, aligning your heart to His? Be thankful for the godly influences in your life but recognize that they are only human. God is the only One who sees the big picture and knows the path He has planned for you.

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December 14, 2021

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Read – Zechariah 2

What does it say?
The Lord Himself will be a wall of fire around Jerusalem and its glory within.

What does it mean?
Zechariah’s third vision was a preview of Jerusalem’s glorious future. Think of how encouraging his words would have been at the time. 70 years of captivity and 16 years of opposition to the rebuilding could easily have caused a defeatist mindset among this small group. God gave them a view of their city without rubble or strife. When the Lord lives among His people during the millennial reign of Christ, Jerusalem will have no need to fortify her walls. His presence will be Israel’s protection and glory. The city boundaries they knew won’t be able to contain the blessings God will pour out.

How should I respond?
Scripture promises that the Christian’s eternal future is wonderful beyond description (1 Cor. 2:9). In the meantime, we live in a world full of temptation and opposition. If you shut the world out and just wait for Christ’s return, you risk being so heavenly minded that you’re of no earthly good. On the other hand, if all you see is the here and now, your days will be filled with dread. God’s promises encourage us to serve Him here, knowing that life will not always include heartache. As a believer, your eternal future starts by living daily in His presence now. Then one day, all strife will be replaced with unimaginable peace and joy.

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December 15, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 22:10-23:21

What does it say?
Athaliah attempted to kill all the royal heirs, but Joash survived and was anointed king. Athaliah was killed.

What does it mean?
Athaliah wasted no time grieving the loss of her son Ahaziah, even though it was her influence that led to his failure and death. She was even willing to take the lives of her own grandsons in order to seize the throne. By contrast, Jehoiada courageously risked his life to anoint Joash king. Athaliah sought her own agenda, refusing to humble herself before the Lord; but she was powerless to stop God’s plan. Athaliah’s desire for power ultimately resulted in her death, whereas Jehoiada’s trust in the Lord restored the line of David to the throne and led the people to renew their commitment to follow God.

How should I respond?
You decide each day whether to further your own agenda or follow God’s will. It’s tempting to take control of situations and manipulate circumstances to achieve your own goals. God’s Word reminds us in Proverbs 19:21 that only His purposes will prevail. Whatever you attempt apart from His plan will ultimately fail. How has God confirmed that your choices align with His will? Which desires fall outside the boundaries of His plan? Promoting your own agenda will eventually lead to compromise and harm. Instead, you can take part in accomplishing God’s purposes. What are you willing to risk?

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December 13, 2019

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Read – Revelation 10

What does it say?
John saw a mighty angel and heard the voices of seven thunders, but he was told not to record their words. He was given a sweet scroll to eat, but it was sour in his stomach.

What does it mean?
Recent chapters have detailed how devastating the Great Tribulation will be on the earth and its inhabitants. Yet the full extent of God’s judgment is unknown because John was prevented from writing down all of the things he heard the angel and the thundering voices speak. Similarly, the contents of the small book are unknown, but God wanted John to internalize His message regarding how end time events will play out. At the appointed time, Christ’s return will no longer be delayed, and evil on the earth will come to an end. While the message of God’s grace is sweet, the end result for many will be bitter.

How should I respond?
Nothing is sweeter than the story of God’s love for the world through the sacrifice of His Son. As believers, it’s hard to imagine how people see the Gospel of Jesus Christ in any other way. But the bittersweet nature of the Gospel is this: believers will spend eternity in God’s presence, while unbelievers will be eternally separated from Jesus and His followers. Time will eventually run out and Jesus will return. Are you daily internalizing God’s Word so you can share the sweet taste of God’s salvation with someone else before it’s too late?

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December 14, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 22:1-9

What does it say?
Ahaziah became king after his father’s death. He was killed by Jehu after reigning in Jerusalem for one year.

What does it mean?
Today’s passage points out the power of ungodly influences. Ahaziah was aware of the painful death of his father, as prophesied by Elijah. He saw firsthand the results of rebellion against the Lord. Yet when he came to the throne, he chose to follow the wicked counsel of his mother and his father’s idol worshiping advisers. Although he was a young man, Ahaziah was old enough and had enough power to choose humble obedience to the Lord. Following ungodly advice was his undoing, making Ahaziah merely a footnote in Judah’s history.

How should I respond?
Following ungodly advice will always weaken your relationship with God, but wise, godly counsel will strengthen it. A Christian, by definition, is one who follows Christ. As such, we need to be careful from whom we seek guidance. To whose voice have you been listening? Is that person following Jesus or the whims of popular culture? Ask God to show you where to seek counsel regarding your family, job, or decisions on the horizon. Then, always check any advice you receive with Scripture. Any influence that opposes God’s Word will contribute to your undoing instead of God’s blessing.

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December 12, 2019

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Read – Revelation 9

What does it say?
The fifth and sixth trumpets are sounded, bringing more judgment in the form of two apparently demonic invasions on the earth.

What does it mean?
The sounding of the fifth trumpet is tied to three woes soon to visit the earth. The first results in the release of a horrible army, prepared to inflict pain on all who have not received the seal of the faithful. The sixth trumpet releases four angels to kill one third of the people on the earth. Despite God’s judgment, people refuse to repent and acknowledge Him. These two trumpets detail how futile it is to resist God. While these judgments should lead to repentance, they do not. Sin has such control over people that they would rather die than repent of their sins and turn to God.

How should I respond?
While the judgments mentioned in this passage are for people who reject God’s gracious offer of salvation through Jesus, God doesn’t overlook sin in the life of His followers either. God takes sin seriously, so He provided a means to deal with sin at great personal cost – the sacrifice of His only Son. How might you be taking God’s grace for granted by refusing to repent of a specific sin? Have you acknowledged His Lordship over every area of your life, including your thoughts? God disciplines His children because He loves us. What do you need to make right with Him today?

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December 13, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 21:4-20

What does it say?
Jehoram became Judah’s king, murdered his brothers, and did not obey the Lord. Elijah told Jehoram he would lose everything. He died a painful death, to no one’s regret.

What does it mean?
Jehoram desired to be king no matter the cost. His lust for power caused him to lose sight of what was most important … people. His willingness to murder his family shows just how dark and hard Jehoram’s heart had become. He seemed to get away with his sin, even after God warned him and gave him time to repent. Yet God never goes back on His word. Jehoram lost not only his family and the respect of his people but also the only things he seemed to care about: his throne and his power. In the end, he died in disgrace. No one mourned for him. No one missed him.

How should I respond?
If you had only a minute to evacuate your home, school, or business, what would you take with you? Most of us would focus on getting our family and friends to safety. From time to time, however, we all take for granted the people God has placed in our lives. Tunnel vision regarding personal goals or material desires causes us to forget that only relationships can be taken to Heaven with us. This week, how have you treated those who matter most in your life? Have your words and actions demonstrated how valuable they are to you? Today would be a good time to remind them.

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December 11, 2019

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Read – Psalms 139

What does it say?
The Lord searched David and knew him completely, even from before he was born.

What does it mean?
This psalm starts and ends with the Lord searching David’s heart. God knew everything about him; every day of his life was written down by God. All of his thoughts, words, and actions were completely transparent in God’s presence. David grasped that God knew him better than he knew himself, so he invited the Lord to search him completely and to point out anything in his life that did not please Him. He wanted to see himself as God saw him so he could correct what was wrong. David was in absolute awe of God’s knowledge of and personal involvement in his life.

How should I respond?
God knows everything about your life. He was there even before you took your first breath, and He is with you today. How does it make you feel to know that God sees, hears, and cares about everything you think, say, and do? The answer depends on whether you are currently living in obedience to Christ. Will you invite God to search your heart today? Otherwise, you can become blinded to where you’ve gone wrong and attempt to minimize your sins. It takes courage to look honestly at your life, admit your faults, and seek God’s forgiveness. Your heart and mind are already transparent to the Lord, so why not see yourself the way He sees you? When you do, His all-seeing, all-knowing presence is a comfort – not a concern.

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December 12, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 20:11-21:3

What does it say?
As Jehoshaphat’s reign came to an end, he made an alliance with Ahaziah, the wicked king of Israel. The Lord allowed the trading ships they built to be destroyed.

What does it mean?
Jehoshaphat was a faithful king regarding his commitment to God. But near the end of his reign, Jehoshaphat entered into a business partnership with Ahaziah, which displeased the Lord. Instead of joining God in the work He was doing, Jehoshaphat was distracted by an alluring venture to build a fleet of trading ships. Jehoshaphat’s unwise alliance with a wicked king brought God’s judgment: the ships were destroyed before they ever set sail. As a result of his failure to trust and obey God, valuable resources and time were wasted.

How should I respond?
Even the most committed followers of Jesus can get distracted by projects or busyness that God never intended them to take part in. He asks us to join Him in His work, but often we decide to start our own venture and just ask His blessing on it. Don’t be fooled – these are very different things. God-honoring work originates with God. Any project in which God is an after-thought is a cause for concern. What dreams or projects do you envision for the future? Which category do they fall into – joining God or asking God to join you? Ask God to reveal where in His work He wants you to join Him.

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December 10, 2019

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Read – Psalms 138

What does it say?
David praised God’s faithfulness and love in the midst of troubles.

What does it mean?
It is uncertain as to exactly when David wrote this psalm, but his circumstances are clear. He was surrounded by enemies and away from Jerusalem in a land filled with false gods. Yet even in the midst of trouble, David’s spiritual life went uninterrupted. God’s unwavering love in such a difficult time gave him the strength and encouragement to worship God with every ounce of his being. His circumstances had not derailed God’s purpose for his life but had given him greater cause to praise the God of Israel to pagan kings. David’s increased troubles served to amplify his understanding of God’s faithfulness, mercy, holiness, and love.

How should I respond?
The troubles of life are difficult; however, they shouldn’t impact you negatively. If anything, the hurdles you face give you greater opportunity to understand the character of God. Personally experiencing God’s hand on your life is quite different from just reading about His grace and mercy or listening to friends’ stories of His faithfulness. In what troubling circumstance do you find yourself today? Have you allowed it to interrupt your worship or your walk with the Lord? What you need is a paradigm shift. Stop looking at the negative and watch for God’s loving, faithful hand.

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December 11, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 20:1-20

What does it say?
While Jehoshaphat and the people worshiped the Lord, He destroyed the enemies surrounding them.

What does it mean?
In a moment of crisis, Jehoshaphat immediately went to God. By humbly and openly admitting that he didn’t know what to do, he caused the entire nation to look to the Lord. After reminding everyone of God’s character, promises, and commitment to them, the Lord sent His answer, “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” The Lord could have won the victory with Jehoshaphat’s army safely inside the city, but He instructed them to “take [their] positions; stand firm” and “go out to face them.” There was no need to fear because the Lord was with them. They saw the answer to their prayers, firsthand.

How should I respond?
There are moments when we feel powerless and have no idea what to do. We can choose to look frantically for solutions or we can humbly turn to the Lord. How are you handling the current crisis in your life? Is your focus and trust centered on Christ, or is your energy diverted by fear, anger, and worry? Take a moment to reflect on the character of God. Praise Him for who He is. Thank Him for how He has helped you in the past and acknowledge His sovereignty over the crisis at hand. God can do more than we can ever hope or imagine. Stand firm and listen for His guidance. Give Him your fear, and He’ll help you face the problem. Your battle belongs to the Lord!

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December 9, 2019

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Read – Revelation 8

What does it say?
Seven trumpets come out of the seventh seal. The first four trumpets sound and cause hail and fire and the darkening of one third of the stars and moon.

What does it mean?
This chapter opens with silence in anticipation of the first four trumpet judgments and ends with a warning concerning the coming three trumpets. The first four of these judgments will cause extraordinary natural disasters. The description of the third trumpet could even be seen as possible atomic or nuclear warfare. The wrath of God on those who have rejected His Son is in response to the prayers of God’s people who are sealed with His protection (Revelation 5:8; 7:3).

How should I respond?
As followers of Jesus, we tend to pray more frequently for Christ’s soon return as we get older, but we should also feel an urgency to tell others about Him. Do you have friends or family members who have never committed themselves to Christ? Without a relationship with Jesus, they will go through the most horrible events our world will ever experience. Begin to pray for them daily, and then look for opportunities to tell your own story of repentance and salvation. What has stood in the way of sharing Christ with them before now? In light of today’s passage – what could possibly be more important?

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December 10, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 19:4-11

What does it say?
Jehoshaphat brought the people back to the Lord and established a team of judges.

What does it mean?
Jehoshaphat saw the need to establish a strong judicial system in the cities throughout the land. He didn’t focus on political strategies or crisis management. Instead, Jehoshaphat chose to focus on a policy that would result in true justice for God’s people. The judges he appointed must not be swayed by bribes, public opinion, or personal endeavor; their judgment must be fair and honoring to the Lord. The reason? With God, “there is no injustice, partiality, or bribery.” Jehoshaphat was freeing the judges from the need to please others and allowing them to focus their energy on making decisions that would please God.

How should I respond?
The desire to please important people in our life is a natural human response. The motivation can be as innocent as a child striving for the favor of a parent, or it can be the self-serving goals of an employee trying to earn the favor of a boss. God wants us to be free of the need to please and to embrace the opportunity to live completely for Him without distraction. Sooner or later, living solely to please others will dishonor the Lord. What decisions in your life are controlled by trying to please someone else? Talk candidly with the Lord about what will best please Him. He will listen. He will free you.

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December 8, 2019

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Read – Revelation 7

What does it say?
John witnessed the sealing of God’s servants and heard the praise song of a vast multitude.

What does it mean?
The judgment in the sixth seal seems to continue, but the four angels given the task of withholding the four winds from the earth are instructed not to harm the earth or the sea until God puts His seal of protection on His servants. These servants are made up of 144,000 Jews and a multitude of Gentiles who will be saved during the Great Tribulation. John paints a vivid picture of God’s judgment, but he also reminds his readers that God is still merciful to save and protect those who worship Jesus, the Lamb.

How should I respond?
Followers of Jesus have a secure and protected eternity, but that does not guarantee an absence of trouble here on Earth. Just as purchasing a security system will not keep you completely safe from disaster, being faithful to Christ is no guarantee against having problems. Jesus does, however, promise His presence in the midst of trials. What problem do you need to release to Him? Even if the trial does not go away, He will continue to work in your life and give you opportunities to point others to Him through the difficulty.

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December 9, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 18:28-19:3

What does it say?
Jehoshaphat and Ahab ignored Micaiah’s prophecy and went to battle against the Arameans. Ahab died, but Jehoshaphat was spared.

What does it mean?
Jehoshaphat made an ungodly alliance with Ahab. Micaiah’s prophetic warning should have caused him to rethink his decision. Instead, Jehoshaphat went forward even when Ahab suggested he wear royal attire into battle, making him the target of the enemy’s attack. It was only by God’s mercy that Jehoshaphat survived. However, God didn’t allow his foolishness to go without rebuke. His encounter with the prophet Jehu was a reminder that his choice was wrong; he should have paid attention to God’s warning signs. The loving rebuke encouraged Jehoshaphat to continue seeking the Lord.

How should I respond?
Stop signs, yellow lights, and orange cones warn us of potentially dangerous road conditions. You wouldn’t ignore those signs, would you? Likewise, we should pay attention to God’s warning flags. They are meant for our protection. Scripture gives specific instructions on actions to avoid and qualities to develop. The Holy Spirit also works in your heart to guide you when issues are not as clear. Do you have an uneasy feeling about a decision? Does the path seem blocked? Has someone you trust spoken up? Pay attention! God may be trying to steer you away from a dangerous situation.

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December 7, 2019

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Read – Revelation 6

What does it say?
The Lamb breaks the first six seals, sending God’s judgment on the earth.

What does it mean?
The first four seal judgments (a conqueror, war, famine, and death) have increasingly tragic effects on the earth. Then the breaking of the fifth seal brings a vision of those killed for being faithful to Jesus. The sixth seal contains cosmic phenomena and worldwide disturbances, signaling that God’s final judgment has come. The leaders of the world hide in fear of the wrath of the Lamb, while the martyrs are able to rest until God’s judgment is complete by finding shelter under the altar that represents the Cross where the sacrificial blood of Christ paid for their sin.

How should I respond?
The idea of judgment can be frightening or even disconcerting, but the reality is that God will judge. The question is: How will God judge you? If you have accepted Christ as your Savior, then His sacrificial blood covers the judgment for your sin. As a follower of Christ, you have no need to fear His coming because you already know the outcome. Will you be found frightened or faithful at the coming of the Lord? Are you content to be safe in Christ while people you pass every day still face God’s wrath? Allow this passage to overwhelm you with gratitude for the Cross and motivate you to tell someone about Jesus’ sacrifice today.

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December 8, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 18:1-27

What does it say?
Ahab and Jehoshaphat inquired of Ahab’s prophets before going to battle.

What does it mean?
It wasn’t unusual for a king to seek the advice of prophets or other counsel before making important decisions. However, Ahab had surrounded himself with prophets who told him only what he wanted to hear. He rejected Micaiah’s previous prophecies because they didn’t align with his personal desires. It’s not clear why Micaiah initially agreed with the other prophets who favored the invasion. He finally delivered the harsh message from God after being pressed for the truth, knowing it would anger Ahab. Micaiah’s imprisonment was a heavy price, but God’s message had been spoken.

How should I respond?
Telling the truth can be difficult when people only want to hear positive remarks. As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to speak the truth with a loving attitude (Eph. 4:15). Still, we often stay silent for fear of hurting the feelings of others or making them angry. When should you speak up? First, your heart should be guided by God; spend time in prayer, asking Him to check your motives. Are you motivated by a sincere desire to help the person make wise decisions or by a prideful intent to set him straight? Selfish and destructive words are often hidden behind the guise of “speaking the truth in love.” Ask God for the courage and wisdom to speak the truth, even if it is painful.

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December 6, 2019

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Read – Revelation 5

What does it say?
The Lamb is declared worthy to open the sealed scroll and is worshipped as God.

What does it mean?
John saw a scroll in the hand of God the Father. Only Jesus is worthy to break its seals and reveal the Father’s judgment on the world. As the Lamb, Jesus purchased salvation by His blood; as the Lion of Judah, He will judge the world; as the root of Jesse, He is eternal God. When Jesus came to the earth the first time, He was rejected as the Son of God, and the world at large denied His divine nature. One day, everyone and everything in Heaven, on earth, under the earth, and even in the sea will give Jesus Christ the same worship that is given to the Father. Jesus is worthy of worship.

How should I respond?
Typically, our society places value on something in light of its scarcity or worth. Often we put these things in a conspicuous place so that others can appreciate them. We sometimes even brag about our valuable items. Jesus is the only Lamb of God, and His worth surpasses everything and everyone else. In what ways do you celebrate His value? You can tell how valuable a thing is by how often you mention it. Check your priorities. How valuable is Jesus to you according to your conversations about Him? How will you show how valuable Jesus is to you today?

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December 7, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 17

What does it say?
Jehoshaphat became king and instituted reforms to turn the people to godly practices. God blessed Jehoshaphat’s reign with peace and protection.

What does it mean?
As a king who followed the commands of the Lord, Jehoshaphat expected his people to do the same. He removed the “high places” and the practice of worshiping other gods alongside the Lord. Jehoshaphat knew it would take more than that to turn the people’s hearts back to the one true God. He couldn’t revive their faithfulness to the Lord by decree from his throne in the palace. So Jehoshaphat sent his officials, priests, and prophets into the community with the Book of the Law. Rather than simply tell them what to do, Judah’s leaders showed them firsthand.

How should I respond?
Helping people isn’t done from a distance. We must go where people are in order to give them what they need. Obviously, not everyone can leave home and go to the jungles of Guatemala or Africa, and that’s okay. But chances are you have a little time to spend with someone who has a need. Who around you has a physical or spiritual need? How could they benefit from your time? Remember, both Jesus and Paul influenced people by building relationships. Relationships take time, but the impact they make can last a lifetime … and often make a difference for eternity.

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December 5, 2019

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Read – Revelation 4

What does it say?
John recorded his vision of the worship taking place around the One sitting on the throne in Heaven.

What does it mean?
Revelation 4 gives an amazing description of the power, presence, and position of God the Father and the worship He deserves. Worship is an ongoing theme in Revelation because worship will be an ongoing activity throughout eternity. Two aspects of worship are highlighted – the character of those doing the worship and the character of the One being worshiped. God is worshiped because of His holiness and His sovereignty over all of His creation. These qualities speak to His divine nature through which all things came to be and by which He will rule forever and ever.

How should I respond?
If we could see God in all of His glory, there’s no doubt we would fall to our knees in spontaneous worship. If you want to know what God is like, then look at the life of His only Son recorded in Scripture. God has given us a revelation of Himself in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Seeing God as He is can put your life into proper perspective and help you sort out what is essential from what is incidental. God is holy, and we must be holy in our worship of Him. What needs to change in your life so that you can worship in the presence of the holy God? How will you take time to worship Jesus as your holy, sovereign Creator today?

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December 6, 2023

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Read – 2 Chronicles 16

What does it say?
Asa responded angrily to the seer’s message that God would have strengthened and delivered Judah if Asa had relied on the Lord rather than on a human alliance.

What does it mean?
Asa forgot how the Lord had delivered Judah in the past and turned to an ungodly king for help. The Lord was ready to help as He had done before, but Asa did not ask Him to do so. Asa responded with another bad decision – evidence that his heart began to harden towards the Lord. Rather than humbly repent, he took his anger out on the seer and his people. By the time he faced a severe illness five years later, Asa had stopped asking God for help altogether. Asa faithfully served the Lord for 35 years. Yet one foolish decision led to another until he no longer desired to hear from the Lord at all.

How should I respond?
We often wonder why God doesn’t intervene when we’re in a challenging situation. Sometimes it’s because we turn everywhere else for relief instead of turning to Him. God often uses friends, family, counselors, or doctors to give us support. But turning to them first shows that our reliance has shifted from the Lord to people. Dependence on Christ is a daily choice. The Lord stands ready to help, whether it’s through complete deliverance or simply the strength to get through the next day. Before you pick up the phone to call a friend, talk to the Lord. Will you rely on Him today?

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December 4, 2019

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Read – Psalms 137

What does it say?
While the psalmist wept, his Babylonian captors demanded he sing a song of Zion.

What does it mean?
The words of this psalm were written from a broken heart while Israel was in captivity. It’s important to remember that God allowed His people to be driven from their homeland because they had repeatedly refused to repent. So, did the writer long for Jerusalem because it was the holy city where God dwelt or because he missed the sinful life he led there? He hung up his harp and refused to sing at the very time that the songs of Zion would have reminded him of God’s faithfulness, turned Israel’s hearts to the Lord, and witnessed to their pagan captors of their Almighty God.

How should I respond?
It’s much easier to sing along with the praise song on the radio when God’s blessing is evident in your life than when you’re overwhelmed with sorrow or anger. Has something stolen your joy? Don’t wait until you feel better – listen to music today that will remind you of God’s love and faithfulness. If your ability to praise the Lord is based on your circumstances, then there are times when your heart will grow cold. If, however, your joy flows from knowing Christ and living to please Him, you will never be without a song in your heart (Acts 16:25). You’ll be an encouragement to other believers and a powerful witness to those outside of Christ.

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