After all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified cities, thinking to conquer them for himself. (2 Chronicles 32:1 NIV) The previous chapter ends with a positive evaluation of King Hezekiah of Judah, “This is what Hezekiah did throughout Judah, doing whatContinueContinue reading “Always for a Reason”
Category Archives: Old Testament
Respect Authority
While they were at Hazeroth, Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses because he had married a Cushite woman. They said, “Has the LORD spoken only through Moses? Hasn’t he spoken through us, too?” But the LORD heard them. (Numbers 12:1-2 NLT) People aren’t perfect, let alone those who are in authority. Nevertheless, God established authority andContinueContinue reading “Respect Authority”
Facing Our Fears
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV) Joshua had big shoes to fill. After Moses’ death, Joshua went from being Moses’ assistant to becoming his successor. Therefore, it was Joshua,ContinueContinue reading “Facing Our Fears”
Small Yet Powerful
Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips. (Psalm 141:3 NLT) What a wise plea! It’s amazing how the tongue, a small part of the body, is what gets us in big trouble. I’m reminded of the Apostle James’ description of the tongue; he nailed it on the head. That’s whyContinueContinue reading “Small Yet Powerful”
God’s Got Your Back
Israel, you will know that I stand at your side. (Joel 2:27 CEV) It’s great to have someone by our side during a time of need, especially if that someone is God Himself. Paul could testify to that. He says, “The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. EveryoneContinueContinue reading “God’s Got Your Back”
Embracing the Tough Times
So the message about the Lord spread widely and had a powerful effect… About that time, serious trouble developed in Ephesus concerning the Way. (Acts 19:20, 23 NLT) Many are fond of the success of the early church and like to imitate its pattern, but did you know that there’s a strong correlation between theContinueContinue reading “Embracing the Tough Times”
Finish What You Started
Also our enemies said, “Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.” (Nehemiah 4:11 NIV) While rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah and the people faced constant opposition from their enemies. However, that didn’t stop Nehemiah and theContinueContinue reading “Finish What You Started”
Seek His Face Always
Search for the LORD and for his strength; continually seek him. (Psalm 105:4 NLT) How would you feel if a friend only called when they needed you? I know I’d feel offended. When I was struggling with this issue, God reminded me of the fact that that’s how many people treat Him. They seek HimContinueContinue reading “Seek His Face Always”
Responding to Calamities
When Job heard this, he tore his clothes and shaved his head because of his great sorrow. He knelt on the ground, then worshiped God and said: “We bring nothing at birth; we take nothing with us at death. The LORD alone gives and takes. Praise the name of the LORD!” In spite of everything,ContinueContinue reading “Responding to Calamities”
Good Job!
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. (Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV) I believe that the reason many people are not satisfied with their job and therefore can’t give it their best is because that’s not the job they were meant to do. I worked with students whose aim was to findContinueContinue reading “Good Job!”
Rising with the Son 