Day 81 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) focuses on a man named Micah, whose idol worship and sin spreads from his household into the lives of an entire tribe (Dan).
My commentary* emphasizes how "[t]he power of individual influence shouts aloud in this seemingly well-motivated and innocent deviation from God’s directed pattern".
*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) . Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
As I have remarked before:
- freedom and free will to do what we choose is not freedom at all, as we are all born as slaves to sin, and believers should instead seek to become slaves to God
- who and what we place in our lives serve to influence our heart, thoughts and actions and we should be aware of what sinful influences we have (and isolate ourselves from these or remove them if we can), and replace them with Godly influences
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has placed many Godly influences in my life who have lifted me up towards You and strengthened me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
