Zechariah 1 -2 When we read the prophets we come away with our minds swirling because in our 21st century we know we are reading a historical record with implications for our spiritual lives. A new administration under Cyrus allowed the exiles to return to rebuild the Temple. In that time Isaiah prophesied that this […]
Obadiah: Do you recall the story about a feud between the Hatfield’s and McCoy’s who harbored grudges spanning several years? They were led by a rogue clan member who refused to forgive. Read Obadiah with this tale and the Jacob/Esau story in mind. Just like the Hatfield/McCoy feud, the descendants of Esau/ Edomite’s hearts were […]
Ps 69-70 Psalm 69 is the third most quoted psalm in the NT. (e.g., those who hate me without cause [Jn 15:25], “Immediately one of them ran, and taking a sponge, he filled it with sour wine (some translations use vinegar) and put it on a reed, and gave Him a drink… [Matt 27:48]. David begins his psalm with an analogy of physical drowning as he […]
2Samuel 9 Ever watched Mission Impossible? Those are fake, but this story is real! A bit of history here: for centuries, when a new king arose, he executed the remaining family members of the former king. David could have followed the pattern of others, but he is not like others. David had made a pretty […]
1Samuel 15 How often do we begin our explanation for doing wrong with the word “but” just like King Saul? We try to save face by not admitting wrong. “BUT I have obeyed the Lord”! I went on the campaign the Lord sent me on.” But when pressed by Samuel, he admits, “I have sinned, […]
Joshua 22 It has been seven long years since the tribes who had received land on the east of the Jordan. These tribes made a promise, and they kept it to.the.letter.! Joshua reminded them that their faithfulness is worthy of reward. As they neared the crossing of the Jordan, they stopped and built an impressive altar. […]
Joshua 7 Joshua fell flat on his face seeking answers as to the reason they had victory in Jericho but defeat in Ai. Surely this small city could be taken with a small force. Joshua failed to consult God first, and behind the scenes, we find that our archenemy had been busy. The result was that […]
Lev 5 God wants us to handle sin when it is revealed to us and more so: “even if we didn’t realize we sinned…” This is not talking about intentional rebellion, but those sins that we unintentionally commit and then realize. Sin brings guilt. You can ignore it OR confess it to God seeking His […]
Gen 48 The psalmist wrote that we are to prepare the next generation to praise Him and then, in turn, tell the next generation about the Lord’s praiseworthy acts, his strength and the amazing things he has done. The reason is so that they will place their confidence in God and not forget the works of […]
Genesis 44 God has used the separation of several years to soften the heart of Judah. Judah brought great grief to his father Jacob and no amount of consoling brought him relief. Jacob gave up all hope so when Judah wanted to take Benjamin to get more grain in Egypt it was the last straw. While […]
