As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.

Daniel 1

 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Daniel 1:17

I continue my pause of a study of Hebrews to study Daniel in conjunction with disciple/small group study with my church's men's wake up call. Today my focus is Daniel 1 as I lean on a commentary for its observations of this book.  Here, the commentary for Daniel 1 emphasizes a number of key themes, including:

1. God May Sovereignly Send You to a Difficult Place to Spread His Name among the Nations (v1-3)
2. Be Prepared for the Challenges Non-Christian Cultures Will Throw at You to Lead You Away from God (v3-7)
3. Determine Early in Your Life and Heart That You Will Not Compromise Your Convictions and Commitments to God (v8-13)
4. Trust God to Honor Your Devotion and Faithfulness to Him (v14-21)

It shares how believers may find ourselves in challenging places, both figuratively and literally, and how we should "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2) and how we are “not [to] be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).  Daniel and his companions hold firm to their faith and remain obedience, despite the pressure to conform to Babylonian culture while in the service of Nebuchadnezzar's palace.  Believers of today are reminded of similar challenges today. The commentary wraps by sharing how Daniel was a foretaste of Jesus: Daniel and his companions "beautifully typify another Hebrew who will arrive six hundred years later who was also sent to a foreign land to bear witness to the one true God—a Jew by the name of Jesus." Believers should be encouraged by Daniel's example and how God provided for him and his companions and blessed them in their obedience, despite the challenging circumstances.  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord You are good - Your mercies are new every morning, and You provide for all of my needs - and You never leave or forsake me...thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessings.  My sin is great and it 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.

But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself.

Daniel 1

But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. Daniel 1:8

I pause in my study of Hebrews to study Daniel in conjunction with a disciple/small group study with my church's men's wake up call. This morning my focus is Daniel 1 and my unaided observations of this chapter.  Tomorrow, I review the same text and lean on commentary provided the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series for Daniel. Here in Daniel 1, we read about how Babylon, under the reign of king Nebuchadnezzar, sieged Jerusalem and brought back to Babylon "vessels of the house of God" as well as youth of Israel to serve in Nebuchadnezzar's palace.  Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, whom the chief of eunuchs renamed Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  They were given the same food and wine that the king ate and drank, but Daniel "resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank" (v8).  He requested vegetables and water and proved to the chief of eunuchs that he would not be any less healthy or strong, so ultimately allowed Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to eat and drink vegetables and water (v16).  The text remarks twice how "God gave" and blessed the young men, first "God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs" (v9), then "God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams" (v17). From the text this morning, similar to how Joseph in Genesis found himself in difficult circumstances, Daniel and his companions, although they found themselves taken as slaves to serve in Nebuchadnezzar's palace, they held firm in their faith of God and chose to continue in obedience to Him - trusting that He would provide...and of course He did.  We see in v17-20 how God blessed these young men with spiritual gifts that made them stand out among all the other slaves, and how they were "ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom."  Regardless of our circumstances, God wants us to continue in obedience to Him.  He places us in these circumstances for a reason - to glorify Him. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who blesses me, equips me, and provides for me - regardless of my circumstances.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it 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.

For the Lord comforts Zion; he comforts all her waste places and makes her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of song.

Isaiah 51-53

For the Lord comforts Zion; he comforts all her waste places and makes her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of song. Isaiah 51:3

I continued my deep dive of Isaiah, based on the Precept Upon Precept study series - on Day 2 of Lesson 19, I once again focus - more deeply this time - on Isaiah 51. My commentary shares the following divisions for this chapter:

1. Listen to Me! The God of Abraham will again create righteousness from nothing (v1-6)
2. Listen to Me! The God of the Exodus will again make a way for His people (v7-11)
3. How dare you fear man more than Me? Through you I will establish eternity (v12-16)
4. Wake Up! The time has come for your tormentors to fall (v17-23)

The commentary then notes the following applications:

1. Listen to the Word of the Lord and feed our hearts on His past achievements in scripture so that we may be filled with a powerful hope, no matter how bleak the circumstances.
2. We should learn to fear God and obey Him more than we fear human beings, no matter how threatening or powerful they appear.
3. We should fully embrace the future this chapter clearly unfolds: for the present universe, total destruction; for the believers, a new heaven and new earth in which they will worship God eternally in joy; for the wicked tormentors, a cup of wrath.  These themes should strongly color the way we live every day-pursuing righteousness in the fear of the Lord and seeking to deliver the prisoners held by chains of sin.

In particular, I am struck by application #1 and #2 and rest in Isiah 51:3 where God reminds us of how He comforts us and turns our wilderness circumstances into Eden - and we can find joy and gladness in Him, no matter our circumstances.  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God and I trust in You for You turn all of wilderness experiences into Eden and You have redeemed me from the bondage of sin.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of my salvation....the greatest gift of all time.  My sin is great and it continues.  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.

“For the waves of death encompassed me, the torrents of destruction assailed me[....]This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.

2 Samuel 22 

 “For the waves of death encompassed me, the torrents of destruction assailed me[....]This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. 2 Samuel 22:5, 31

This morning, until I start a new Bible study, I continue using devotionals from John Piper.  Today, the post focuses on Job and how we can view God's providence and goodness during periods of trial.  Piper draws from the book of Job and pulls out five applications for us.

1. Satan is not ultimate; God is.
2. Satan is not the decisive cause of death and calamity; God is.
3. Destructive calamities in this world mingle judgment and mercy.
4. The heart that Christ gives to his people feels compassion for those who suffer, no matter what their faith is.
5. Finally, Christ calls us to show mercy to those who suffer, even if they do not deserve it.
   

Comment and discuss this post here.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who is full of mercy and compassion for me as You purify and sanctify me, and even during periods when I am punished - Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such mercy and compassion.  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.

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”

Matthew 8

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24-27

I continue with my study of - Ten Men of the Bible: How God Used Imperfect People to Change the World - eBook by Max Lucado (for purchase). This morning, I continue with the story of "Matthew: Redefining God's Family*".

*Title of lesson seven from the Max Lucado study.

The commentary* of day four starts with Max Lucado pointing to Matthew's account of Jesus calming the storm (from the boat) in Matthew 8:23-27. Lucado wants us to look at the Greek word used by Matthew to describe the storm - he used seismos which in modern day language refers to an earthquake and such Greek language is used again in the Bible to describe Jesus' death on the cross in Mathew 27, Jesus' resurrection in Matthew 28. We are encouraged to examine how Jesus could sleep through the turbulence at sea, how the disciples felt great fear, and to contrast the two.  During turbulent times, we often fail to see Jesus working in our lives but of course we should know that He is ALWAYS working in our lives. Lucado suggests that during turbulent times we often have spiritual "amnesia" where we fail to remember what God has done in our lives and to lean on what we know God is capable of doing.  Lucado provides the following scriptures to encourage us:

• Deuteronomy 7:21
• Joshua 1:9
• Psalms 56:3-4
• Proverbs 29:25
• 2 Timothy 1:7
• 1 John 4:18

It is through our daily time, particularly during the good times, with the Lord, where we praise and worship Him, spend time with Him, study His Word, and we build a relationship with Him so that when the storm comes we hopefully can continue to stand firm in our faith.

Comment and discuss this post here.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who has been with me during all times - good and bad - and You have blessed me always, every day.  I am not deserving of how You pour out Your love for me.  I worry, and have other sins.  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, apply and be obedient to Your message for me today and every day.

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

Acts 20:3-21:16

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Acts 20:24

Day 343 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning my focus returns to Acts where Paul leaves Corinth (where Romans was likely written) enroute to Syria as my commentary* notes "...Paul addresses the elders from the church at Ephesus and tells them that he anticipates possible imprisonment and persecution upon his return to Jerusalem. Paul undoubtedly also warns them of the danger of falling away from the teaching of Christ—a concern which he will address at length in various letters later in his life. Sadly, concluding his close association with the church in Ephesus, Paul leaves resolutely to face whatever outcome awaits him in Syria." While in Caesarea, a prophet named Agabus prophecies that Paul will be bound and handed over to the authorities in Jerusalem. Yet Paul is not concerned.

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.

All of us will encounter troubles in our lives (see also John 16:33, , ) and we can look to Paul for encouragement in how he modeled his race.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3

My Prayer: Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who will never leave or forsake me.  I know that whatever challenge I encounter, You are with me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love. My sin continues.  I worry and I have other sins.  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 word for me today and every day.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Acts 15-18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Day 329 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning focusing on Paul's second missionary journey which my commentary* describes as "...a visit [where] Paul hopes to observe how the churches are developing and lend the weight of his actual presence to resolving the circumcision question about which he has written."  During this missionary journey, Paul meets a number of individuals who become significant in growing the church, including Timothy, Lydia, and Priscilla and Aquila. 

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

One of the most remarkable passages during this journey is when Paul and Silas were preaching in Philippi, where they were beat and thrown into prison (Acts 16:16-40).  Even after suffering a brutal beating, and after being thrown in prison, they found the will to praise and worship God!  We may not be beaten and thrown into prison but are to look for God in difficult circumstances as He is always at work.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has always been at work even during the most challenging of times - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessing and love.  I worry and I have other sins.  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.

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

Acts 8-9

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50:19-21

Day 325 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I move further into the New Testament - this morning focusing on early persecution of the church and its followers, and how one of its persecutors - Paul - is confronted by Jesus Himself, and converted into a follower of Jesus.  My commentary* notes: "[i]t is no surprise that the growing church encounters opposition. Some people are annoyed by the efforts being made to teach them; others are enraged when presented with the truth of Christ. Many are apparently jealous of the joyous fellowship which can be seen among the disciples. There are also rulers and religious leaders who fear loss of power or influence as so many people turn to follow the teaching of the Man from Nazareth. So it is not surprising that the apostles have been put into prison so often, or that Stephen has now been killed."

"Yet the early Christians are probably caught by surprise when a more widespread, organized persecution arises. Reacting swiftly, these new converts leave Jerusalem and flee to cities throughout Judea and Samaria. Yet despite the personal tragedies involved, their persecution actually becomes a blessing. Because of their zeal in sharing the gospel with others, the church thereby expands its boundaries far beyond Jerusalem."

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

The scripture reading this morning also includes, as an example of how persecution scattered the church and in a way became a blessing, Philip's baptism of the Ethopian in Samaria.  The primary example, however for how such persecution became a blessing (and part of God's plan) to the church, is Saul's (who then becomes Paul) conversion.  My commentary indicates: "[b]ut Saul is destined to become a special apostle for the Lord, and that necessitates his ability to testify to the resurrection of Jesus. Therefore Saul’s conversion involves a personal appearance by Jesus himself."

This can be as difficult a learning for a believer as one might face, but we must see how challenging and difficult circumstances are part of God's plans and how God is using such challenges and circumstances for His glory and either our good or the good of the church.  I am reminded of Joseph's story.  His brothers threw him into a pit and sold him into slavery but Joseph became powerful and blessed many people as a result.  Joseph does not seek revenge when he confronts his brothers many years later.  Of course, we also have Jesus' death on the cross.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has blessed me even when I could not see it, including through many challenges and difficult circumstances - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessings.  My sins, including gossip, worry, harsh words and actions towards others, etc.  continue.  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.   

“Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, for the Lord is good; his love endures forever.”

Jeremiah 33:10-13, 30-31

“Give thanks to the Lord Almighty, for the Lord is good; his love endures forever.” Jeremiah 33:11

Day 233 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with my study of Jeremiah where God delivers to Jeremiah through a dream a message of hope to Judah in the aftermath of Jerusalem's siege and captivity of its inhabitants. My commentary* indicates "[s]o that all will know that the eventual release of the people of Israel is due not to mere chance or changing political winds, God directs Jeremiah to record God’s promises regarding the restoration. Using the prophetic poetry he often employs, Jeremiah makes it clear that it will be the God of Israel who purposely restores his people—nothing else."

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

While God makes it clear that it was Judah's sin that brought about its exile (Jeremiah 30:12-15), the message is overwhelming hopeful and it includes many verses of encouragement all believers can lean on during times of trial (including references to the coming Messiah - see for example (Jeremiah 30:21):

Referring to the exile, God says:

It will be a time of trouble for Jacob, but he will be saved out of it. “‘In that day,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘I will break the yoke off their necks and will tear off their bonds; no longer will foreigners enslave them. Instead, they will serve the Lord their God and David their king, whom I will raise up for them. “‘So do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel,’ declares the Lord. ‘I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. I am with you and will save you,’ declares the Lord. ‘Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.’ Jeremiah 30:7-11

Referring to the restoration, God says:

I will lead them beside streams of water on a level path where they will not stumble, because I am Israel’s father, and Ephraim is my firstborn son. Jeremiah 31:9

[Israel] will be like a well-watered garden, and they will sorrow no more. Jeremiah 31:12

I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow. I will satisfy the priests with abundance, and my people will be filled with my bounty,” declares the Lord. Jeremiah 31:13-14

Be encouraged!

My Prayer: Lord Jesus You are my hope and great encouragement - I am grateful beyond what my words can describe.  I know You love me and You are full of mercy and compassion for me.  Thank You Jesus.  I am not deserving of such love, mercy, and compassion.  My sin - particularly harsh words and actions continue.  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.

“Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant, for I am with you,” declares the Lord. “Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.”

Jeremiah 46-47:7

“Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel. I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. Do not be afraid, Jacob my servant, for I am with you,” declares the Lord. “Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.” Jeremiah 46:27-28

Day 215 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with my study of Jeremiah. This morning, building on yesterday's post, my commentary* discusses how, Egypt seeks to overtake Babylonia (and Philistia), but will be defeated (Jeremiah 46:1-11) and subdued by Egypt (Jeremiah 46:12-26).

Addressing those who have remained faithful AND those who have not, God offers "reassurance to Judah".  As I have posted previously,

But if I say, “I will not mention his [God's] word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot....But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. They will fail and be thoroughly disgraced; their dishonor will never be forgotten.

Jeremiah 17:19-20:13

But if I say, “I will not mention his [God's] word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot....But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior; so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. They will fail and be thoroughly disgraced; their dishonor will never be forgotten. Jeremiah 20:9, 11

Day 212 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with my study of Jeremiah. This morning my reading covers much ground.  My commentary* starts with a description of how God's message to Judah through Jeremiah emphasizes the importance of Sabbath rest (Jeremiah 17:19-27) - see John Piper for more on this.  It then moves to a message (including an illustration) from God to Jeremiah that God is the potter and the heavens and earth are all in His hands - He is in control (Jeremiah 18:1-17). My focus this morning is the remainder of the reading where my commentary* describes how Jeremiah learns of a conspiracy against him (Jeremiah 18:18), and he reacts in anger towards God (Jeremiah 18:19-23). Despite his anger, my commentary points to how "Jeremiah nevertheless continues to take God’s message to the people".  Jeremiah is beaten and imprisoned (Jeremiah 20:1-2), feels* "betrayed" and expresses* "self-pity" (Jeremiah 20:7-10, 14-18). Yet, through it all, Jeremiah cannot help but feel a desire to worship and praise God.

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

I am reminded of how Peter and John stand before the Sanhedrin - threatened with arrest and physical harm and death - boldly proclaim: 

As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard. Acts 4:20

Such is the life of a believer - Genesis 3 promises difficulties for believers and Jesus tells us as much:

“I have told you these things [see John 16 full chapter], so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Yes...life is full of challenges, difficulties, suffering, etc., but Jesus never leaves us or forsakes us and with the Holy Spirit and our salvation, we will endure.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who is with me always - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of Your love and the salvation and rest only You provide - the greatest gift of all time.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love as 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.

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40-41

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31

Day 192 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as I return to Isaiah. My commentary* indicates: "If there was any cause for optimism during the reign of Hezekiah, it has now been lost amid the paganism which Manasseh has fostered. Therefore Isaiah once again takes to the streets to warn against idolatry, sorcery, and even astrology. But now in his last days, and with most of Israel already in foreign exile, Isaiah shifts his emphasis. He projects himself into the period of Judah’s exile. He writes as if he were viewing God’s people after Jerusalem’s destruction. He sees their despair in Babylonian captivity. But even now, through God’s revelation, Isaiah sees the restoration of Israel, their return from captivity to a prosperous nation, and the rebuilt city of Jerusalem. Isaiah declares that his mission at this time is to bring comfort to those already in exile and to those about to be taken captive."

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) . Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition.

This morning, as I read Isaiah 40-41 my commentary* highlights not only Isaiah's words from God to comfort Israel, but also to tell of the coming Messiah, and to describe attributes of God - including how God's people/nations are fragile in His hands, how God loves His people, how God's power/strength is unlimited, how idols are futile, how God is in control, and how God's people find strength through Him.

There are many verses from today's reading that provide us with comfort and strength, including not just Isaiah 40:28-31, but also:

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:11

He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. Isaiah 40:26

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who provides great comfort during periods of challenge and difficulty - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love.  I worry am harsh with my words, etc.  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.

But David found strength in the Lord his God.

1 Samuel 25-30, 1 Chronicles 12:1-22

But David found strength in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30:6

Day 92 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues to focus on David on the run from Saul.  He and his men encounters Nabal, a wealthy but evil man who refuses to provide for David's army.  Nabal's wife Abigail provides for David and his men and the Lord strikes down Nabal, and David takes Abigail as one of his wives.  David once again is in a position to kill Saul (1 Samuel 26) but again does not take matters into his own hands (see yesterday and another recent post).  David gains refuge among the Philistines strangely enough but they will not allow him to fight Saul alongside them.  David's forces grow as many men abandon Saul and join David, joining the Thirty among David's might warriors (1 Chronicles 12).  The Amalekites sack David's home in Ziklag (1 Samuel 30) and he and his men are distraught over their families being taken captive and the town destroyed.  Yet David finds strength in the Lord, and goes to the Lord in prayer for wisdom about whether to attack the Amalekites (1 Samuel 30:7-8).

David's life is far from a life free of trouble - although he is anointed he is on the run from Saul for what some estimate as four years (while others choose not to speculate).  Jesus makes many promises for blessings but at least one difficult promise - that we will have trouble, particularly as believers (John 16:33).  David's life I suppose might have been easier had he killed Saul when he had the chance - arguably not from a believers perspective as God might see this as an attempt to thwart His plans. Regardless, the larger point remains that we should expect trouble and as David did, find strength in the Lord.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who gives me strength.  I am not deserving for how You love me and give me strength.  I sin...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.

“You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

1 Samuel 16-17

“You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:45-47

Day 88 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 David's anointing as king, his initial service to Saul to play the lyre to comfort Saul with his torment from evil spirits, and David's victory over Goliath (including Israel's subsequent victory over the Philistines in the battle that followed).

We know that as believers we will face trouble and difficulties - see John 16:33 - but even if the world throws the "kitchen sink" at us, we have the Lord.  We should pray that we have the peace of mind and confidence that David felt that day - that we know that we have a supernatural strength that comes when the Spirit of the Lord enters our life (see also 1 Samuel 16:13).  This is the 

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

Acts 16

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. v25

We all find ourselves in difficult circumstances and we may be tempted to grumble or complain - yet we must remind ourselves that God does not promise a trouble-free life.  On the contrary - John 16:33 and other scriptures tell us that we will have difficulties. 

John Piper's team advises us to view God as the only source of happiness and God can produce joy and happiness both eternally and in difficult circumstances.  This is what Paul and Silas were experiencing.  We don't know what God is doing in our difficulties but we do know that He is working (always!).  We must see how God's hand is producing something great and glorious in the midst of the troubles - we may not see it unfold in our lifetime but we do know that such greatness and gloriousness will result...ultimately.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is always doing great things in my life and through my life - thank You Jesus...You are amazing!  I am undeserving of such love.  I worry and I am selfish, etc.  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.

“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

John 9

“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. v3

We often ask ourselves why bad things happen to people - we may sometimes never understand, but generally speaking, we know God is in all things and He is in control.

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.  And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. Colossians 1:16-18

We exist to glorify Him so we must try and view what is happening in our lives through the lens of how our present circumstances serve to glorify Him - in the present, in the future, and for eternity.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, what a great God You are - I have seen how difficult circumstances have glorified You and blessed me and others.  You are amazing and I love You. Thank You for being MY God.  I am not deserving of such a God. I worry...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.

They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.”

Luke 7

They were all filled with awe and praised God. “A great prophet has appeared among us,” they said. “God has come to help his people.” v16

Life is filled with challenges.  For believers, God promises us that we will "have trouble"; as part of His message He tells us also that we can "take heart" because [He] has "overcome the world" (John 16:33).  Our troubles began at The Fall (Genesis 3), when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden and promised difficult lives.  By not obeying God's instruction not to eat from the tree in the middle of the garden, Adam and Eve sought to be like God and to grow independent from Him.  We all have that urge within us - arrogance - but this leads to destruction because we all need a Savior and Jesus is that Savior.

God does and HAS helped us - He is the Promised Messiah.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who has come to save me - thank You Jesus!  I am undeserving of Your efforts but You are so full of grace - thank You!  Please forgive me because I am harsh with my words and actions.  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.

For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.

Matthew 16

For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done. v27

Jesus begins to warn His disciples of His impending fate of the cross at the hands of the Jewish elders.  Peter, influenced by evil desires, does not want this to happen and challenges Jesus on this.  Jesus then explains that followers of Jesus must deny themselves and instead serve the desires of Him and glorify Him.  He then tells His disciples that they will be held accountable for their life on earth - in terms of their focus on His desires and their sacrifice to fulfill His desires.

We must focus on the eternal and how what God has given us (resources, time, spiritual gifts) can be used to glorify Him.

Also in this today's reading is a message about how to deal with difficult circumstances - Peter did not want to deal with difficult circumstances.  None of us want bad things to happen but they do - we may not like it but we must not only accept such circumstances but see how God is at work as He always is and for our good and His glory.  We must remember that we don't exist to serve our own pleasure.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who has done EVERYTHING for me so that I could have life to the full - freedom from the sting of sin and death.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not worth such love.  I worry, I am quick to anger, etc. among my many sin.  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.

When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.

Matthew 2

When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. v3

Due to concern over his position and status, Herod attempts to find Jesus, the Messiah referred to in prophecy (v3-8, v16).  Herod is unable to see who Jesus really is - the one true God.  Of course, He is not the only one who fails to submit to Jesus as King as it is said "all Jerusalem" is disturbed.

A key question I have this morning is - when threatened, do we see Jesus at work in our circumstances (for His glory and our good) or do we make attempts to thwart God's plans as Herod attempted to do?

We should know that nothing can stop God's plans. 

We should also understand how God is at work for His glory and our good - regardless of the circumstances. 

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

See also difficult circumstances.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, what an amazing God You are that You never leave or forsake me, and You strengthen me during difficult circumstances.  I have seen this with my own eyes in my own life - thank You Jesus!  I am not worth such love.  I worry.  Please forgive me Jesus.  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.

Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.

Job 42

Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. v3

As I wrap a quick study of Job, MacArthur's Bible Commentary helps me better understand a key takeaway from Job's life.  Job did not yet understand why he suffered, yet he fully understood that God reigns with perfect wisdom and justice - there should be no question about God's sovereignty and His perfection as it relates to our circumstances.  

There are times when we don't understand everything about our circumstances - but we can rest on His truths.  That He exists, that He died for our sins, He is our creator and savior, He is in control, He is full of love, grace, and compassion for us, and that He is enough.

This latter point is particularly relevant with Job, for when Job had nothing else - He had God and this should have been enough. Yet Job complained - and when we complain we do so against God.

I too have done as Job has done - so there is no judgement.  Yet in looking back and in looking forward my hope is that I can have peace in knowing that God has me exactly where He wants me.

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.  Philippians 2:14-15

See also post here.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an incredible God who has created all things, is before and in all things and holds all things together.  I know You will never leave or forsake me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not worth such love.  I worry and am often harsh with my words and actions.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You do.  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.