These six towns will be a place of refuge for Israelites and for foreigners residing among them, so that anyone who has killed another accidentally can flee there. (Numbers 35:15 NIV) Where do you run to when you’re wrongly accused and scared? Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites were instructed to designate six citiesContinueContinue reading “A Place of Refuge”
Category Archives: Old Testament
You’re Better Off With Him
But she said, “Don’t call me Naomi; call me Bitter. The Strong One has dealt me a bitter blow. I left here full of life, and God has brought me back with nothing but the clothes on my back. Why would you call me Naomi? God certainly doesn’t. The Strong One ruined me.” (Ruth 1:20-21ContinueContinue reading “You’re Better Off With Him”
Always for a Reason
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”
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”
Rising with the Son 