JEREMIAH 1:4-9 In 1986, John Piper nearly quit as a church minister due to discouragement and opposition. Despite his feelings, he persevered and led a thriving ministry that eventually extended beyond his church. Although the word “success” is prone to misunderstanding, John Piper may be considered successful. What if his ministry had never prospered? Jeremiah, a prophet given … [Read more…]
2 SAMUEL 22:26-37 The Old Testament book of 2 Samuel revolves around the theme of life being a mess, as David faced military challenges, political intrigue, and betrayal. David was also guilty of his relationship with Bathsheba. However, near the end of the book, David praises God for His mercy, love, and deliverance. He cites God … [Read more…]
MATTHEW 8:23-28 Joseph, a commercial salmon fisherman, sent a photograph to his father of a small vessel moving through a narrow pass. The rainbow, a sign of God’s providence and loving care, encircled the boat despite the looming storm clouds. The photograph appears to show God’s faithfulness on earth in the midst of our uncertain future. Jesus’ … [Read more…]
MALACHI 1:1–10; 4:5–6 Ezra and Nehemiah describe the final historic acts of the Old Testament, allowing Israel to return from exile and resettle in Jerusalem. The City of David was repopulated with Hebrew families, a new temple was built, and the wall was repaired. Malachi concludes the Old Testament by expressing God’s love for Israel. The people … [Read more…]
2 CORINTHIANS 2:14-17 Which of the five senses brings back the clearest memories for you? The sense of smell is unquestionably important to me. Paul reminded the Corinthians that they are the pleasing aroma of Christ, possibly referring to Roman victory parades. The Romans burned incense on altars to signal their victory, while for prisoners, the aroma … [Read more…]
PROVERBS 3:1-18 Storm chasing involves travelling to locations predicted for severe weather, often for hobbies or photography, but is dangerous, especially at night. It has become a profitable business for some, with the goal of avoiding harm from a tornado. While skilled forecasters provide accurate information, I personally would not sign up for a tornado tour. In … [Read more…]
2 KINGS 12:1-15 “Cowboy builders” refer to tradespeople in British homes who perform poor construction, often associated with fear or regret due to bad experiences. In King Joash’s story, honesty is demonstrated by those who supervised and did the temple repair, despite rogue carpenters, masons, and stonecutters who may have existed in biblical times. King Joash did what … [Read more…]
PSALM 100 Psalm 100 serves as an artistic creation that encourages us to praise our invisible God. The artist works colourful words from the psalm onto a canvas, creating a world that sings for joy to the Lord. Joy is the delight of God, who redeems us from death. Jesus endured the cross for the joy set … [Read more…]
PSALM 146:1-10 The Surgical Technology International journal claims that looking down at a smart phone with a bent head can cause a 60-pound weight on the neck. With millions of people spending 2-4 hours daily reading and texting, the damage to the neck and spine is a growing health concern. The psalmist acknowledges the weight of life’s … [Read more…]
DEUTERONOMY 30:11-20 A journalist had a peculiar passion for never using a blue pen. So, in response to his colleague’s inquiry about whether he required anything from the shop, he requested some pens. He said, “But not blue pens. I do not desire blue pens. I do not care for blue. Get me 12 ballpoint pens, … [Read more…]
RECENT COMMENTS: