Romans 9-11 -- Friday, January 14

Romans 9 In this section of Romans 9-11, Paul is addressing the nation of Israel (the Jewish nation) to answer the question what about Israel and the Gospel ? What if they do not receive Christ ? Is God through with them as a people and as a nation since they failed ? Does that mean ...

Romans 6-8 -- Thursday, December 16

Romans 6 Paul answers those who suggest that grace allows for one to live in sin 1. This is not possible for one who is united with Christ by faith. He died and was raised to life. In the same way, all who are in Christ by faith have died to sin and are live to righteousness 2-10. Wa...

Romans 1-5 -- Wednesday, December 15

Romans 1 Paul opens this letter with the Gospel or the Good News of God and His Son Jesus Christ 1-4. This is the theme of this entire epistle; the righteousness of God in saving people through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus died and was raised to life 4 and is now procla...

Romans - Introduction -- Monday, December 13

Romans - Introduction Romans begins the section of the New Testament called the Epistles (letters) that the Apostle Paul and others wrote to both churches and individuals. These were recognized as 'inspired by the Holy Spirit' (2 Peter 1:20-22) and have the same authority as the r...

Acts 24-28 -- Monday, December 13

Acts 24 Paul has a trial before Felix. The Jews accuse him of being a troublemaker and a ringleader of the sect called the Nazarene 1-5. Note: Believers were called by different names, here is one. The Jews speak of the truth in this matter, yet they are the ones who are 'falsifying ...

Acts 18-23 -- Monday, December 13

Acts 18 Paul comes to Corinth and meets a couple who are believers (Aquila & Priscilla) 1-3. Paul worked and reasoned in the synagogue 3-4. The Jews reject the message and Paul turns to the Gentiles who respond to the Good News 6-8. The reassures Paul that HE is with him 9-10. Th...

Acts 13-17 -- Thursday, December 9

Acts 13 At this point in the book of Acts a shift occurs that focuses on the spread of the Gospel and the expansion of the Church primarily through the ministry of the Apostle Paul. We must keep in mind that only highlights are recorded by Luke and not an exhaustive volume. While inv...

Acts 6-12 -- Monday, November 22

Acts 6 A problem faces the church in that the Greek speaking Jewish widows were being overlooked as the Hebrew speaking ones were being cared for 1. May be it was cultural or linguistic in nature ? This is brought to the leadership and the ministry is delegated to seven 'Spirit-fille...

Acts 1-5 -- Wednesday, November 17

Acts 1 The dedication of the book (1-3) is the same as the Gospel of Luke (1:1-4) and can be called the continuing work of Jesus Christ through His apostles 1-2. Jesus gave them many proofs of His being alive and spoke to them much about the kingdom of God 3. Jesus promised them the ...

Acts - Introduction -- Friday, November 12

Acts - Introduction The Book of Acts continues the account of Jesus work through His church (believing people) as the Gospel spreads from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. Someone rightly noted that the book is still being written as the church age continues and people are being ...

Matthew 26-28 -- Friday, November 12

Matthew 26 Jesus again tells the disciples of His impending death 1-2. The religious leaders plot to have Jesus killed 3-5. Note: They are so spiritual blind that they do not 'see' the wickedness of their deeds. Jesus is anointed by a women with a costly jar and perfume. The disciple...

Matthew 21-25 -- Wednesday, November 10

Matthew 21 This has been called the 'Triumphal Entry' of Christ or Palm Sunday, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem and was hailed as the Messiah, the Savior ! Jesus send two of the disciples to get a donkey and a colt. This was a fulfillment of God word spoken through the OT prophet 1-5 ...

Matthew 17-20 -- Thursday, November 4

Matthew 17 A significant event in the life of Jesus is recorded here as HE is transfigured on the mountain 1-8. Three disciples (Peter, James, and John) were with Jesus on the mountain. For a moment, His glory is unveiled and described as brightness and light 2. Moses and Elijah also...

Matthew 13-16 -- Monday, November 1

Matthew 13 In this chapter Jesus instructs the people and His Disciples with the use of seven parables 1-3. A parable is a story where the characters or objects take on a spiritual meaning and are meant to communicate some truth of God. These in particular relate to the 'kingdom of G...

Matthew 8-12 -- Wednesday, October 27

Matthew 8 When Jesus concludes His teaching on the mount, He ministers to various individuals and fully meets their unique needs. He is willing (and able) to heal the one with leprosy (which was incurable) 1-4. Note: What must the priest thought when he heard the testimony 4 ? The Lo...

Matthew 5-7 -- Monday, October 25

Matthew 5-7 This section is commonly called 'The Sermon on the Mount' Matthew 5 Jesus begins this section of teaching with the 'Beatitudes' the says of blessing upon those who are thus described 1-11. Those 'blessed' by the Lord are those, who by God's grace, are en...

Matthew 1-4 -- Thursday, October 21

Matthew Introduction Matthew is the first of the four Gospels which record the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ. Each writer presents Christ from a differ vantage point. Matthew portrays Jesus as the 'Prophesied King'. He shows that as a direct descendant of King D...

Malachi 1-4 -- Monday, October 18

Malachi Introduction The book of Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament and was written between 433-430BC. It was God's final word to His people before the Intertestamental Period which is sometimes called 'The 400 Years of Silence'. Through Malachi the Lord warned Hi...

Zechariah 1-14 -- Monday, October 18

Zechariah Introduction Zechariah was both a prophet and priest of the Lord. He served during the same time as Haggai and continued after him. His message from the Lord was one of spiritual renewal as he warned them to heed God's Word. He also foretold much about the coming m...

Haggai 1-2 -- Tuesday, October 12

Haggai Introduction Haggai is the first of the last three prophets whom God sent to His people after they returned from the Babylonian exile. Sometimes they are called 'the postexilic prophets'. Haggai ministered during the time of Zerubbabel and alongside  Zechariah (s...

Zephaniah 1-3 -- Monday, October 11

Zephaniah Introduction Zephaniah was a descendant of King Hezekiah. He prophesied to the people of Judah about 24 years prior to the first siege and deportation to Babylon and about 44 years before the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. He announces the impeding judgment of...

Habakkuk 1-3 -- Monday, October 11

Habakkuk Introduction Habakkuk was a prophet contemporary with Jeremiah and served Judah in the final days before the judgment of God fell on His people. He was troubled by the wickedness of the people and God's apparent unconcern. Why did He allow this ? Even more difficult...

Nahum 1-3 -- Monday, October 11

Nahum Introduction Nahum was a prophet of Judah sent by the Lord to pronounce God's judgment on Nineveh. This was no more than 51 years before their downfall and about 100 years after Jonah and the great revival that occurred. In 612 BC this prophecy came to pass. The people...

Micah 1-7 -- Monday, October 11

Micah - Introduction Micah is called the 'advocate for the poor' by Chuck Swindoll. He declares that sin will be judged by the Lord, but He will also pardon sin and restore also. The prophet Micah was raised up by the Lord to proclaim His message of both judgment and ...

Jonah 1-4 -- Thursday, October 7

Jonah Introduction Jonah was God's prophet who was sent to a Gentile nation, specifically to Nineveh. He did not want to go, so he fled. God had him swallowed by a fish and brought him to Nineveh where he proclaimed God's message of judgment. They people repented and tur...

Obadiah -- Wednesday, October 6

Obadiah Obadiah was a prophet of the Lord, who was given a message against Edom. Edom was descended from Jacob's twin brother Esau. There was an on going feud between his descendants and the children of Israel. Recall that it was Jacob who tricked Esau out of his birthright and th...

Amos 1-9 -- Monday, October 4

Amos 1 Amos gives the setting of his ministry and messages to Israel 1. The Lord warns of His coming judgment against various nations of the day 3-15. In each message, the Lord tells exactly why they will face His judgment. The king is specified because he lead the nation in their ac...

Amos - Introduction -- Friday, October 1

Amos - Introduction Amos was a shepherd whom God called to be a prophet to the Northern nation of Israel 1:1, 7:14-15. He exposed the sins of pride and arrogance of the people who had forsaken the Lord their God  6:8. His call to repentance went unheeded and the judgment of t...

Joel 1-3 -- Thursday, September 30

Joel 1 The Lord calls Joel to be His spokesman (prophet) to give His message to the people of Judah 1. The leaders and common people are told to hear, listen, and heed 2. What was being told was to be told for generations 3. The Lord was sending a swarm of locusts against His people ...

Joel - Introduction -- Thursday, September 30

Joel - Introduction Joel was God's prophet to Judah. McGee suggests that he may have known Elijah and Elisha, since his ministry was around the same time. Joel comes (historically and chronologically) before Hosea by about 40 to 80 years. (The exact date of the book is unknown). Th...

Hosea 7-14 -- Thursday, September 30

Hosea 7 The Lord enumerates the sins of Israel which include deception 1, thievery 1, wickedness among the leaders 3, adultery 4, drunkenness 5, and uncontrolled passions 6, and the worst of all is that they fail to call on the Lord 7. They also mix with the nations which saps their ...

Hosea 1-6 -- Wednesday, September 29

Hosea 1 The setting of Hosea is given in verse 1. Hosea is commanded to married an unfaithful woman and have children with her 2-3. The names of the children born were to be signs to Israel as how the Lord would deal with the nation 4-6. Israel faced the rejection of the Lord while J...

Hosea - Introduction -- Friday, September 24

Hosea - Introduction Hosea is the first of the twelve Minor Prophets. (classified as such because of the length of the books, not in any way because of less importance). Hosea was a prophet to the northern kingdom of Israel for over twenty five years. He was commanded by the Lord t...

Daniel 7-12 -- Friday, September 24

Daniel 7 This begins the second section of the book. Here Daniel is given several dreams and visions which are interpreted by an angel and foretell things that are yet to come. These revelations speak of world empires in relation to the nation of Israel and God's unfolding plans. Dan...

Daniel 1-6 -- Thursday, September 23

Daniel 1 This book opens with Daniel and others taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar in 605 BC. Daniel and the three other Hebrews mentioned 6 were trained and educated for three years with the goal of being put into the king's service 1-7. Though renamed and retrained, Daniel decided to ...

Daniel - Introduction -- Thursday, September 23

Daniel - Introduction The book of Daniel is the final book that is classified as 'a major prophet'. He was one of many who were taken captive to Babylon and was placed in the king's service. The Lord gave Daniel the ability to interpret dreams (which God gave) that revealed...

Ezekiel 40-48 -- Wednesday, September 22

Ezekiel 40 In this last section of Ezekiel (40-48) the Lord gives Ezekiel a vision and message to give to the Jews in exile. Here the Lord shows in vivid detail the temple of the Lord, restored worship, division of the priests and divisions of the land. Though I do not know what each...

Ezekiel 31-39 -- Monday, September 20

Ezekiel 31 Pharaoh, King of Egypt is warned by the Lord of His impending judgment that is about to fall on Egypt. The Lord points to the downfall of Assyria as an example of His power to judge 1-9. Assyria with all its majesty and beauty, that rivaled the garden of Eden 8-9, would be...

Ezekiel 24-30 -- Wednesday, September 15

Ezekiel 24 Ezekiel is given a parable to give to the people. It came on the very day that the siege of Jerusalem began (January 15, 588) 1-3.  A pot was put on the fire and choice meat was put in it 4-5. The pot 'represented' the city that was full of blood shed 6-8. The Lord wo...

Ezekiel 16-23 -- Monday, September 13

Ezekiel 16 This is an interesting chapter. The Lord describes the origin of the Jewish nation as a baby left out to die, that the Lord picks up and causes to live 1-7. He then cleans up and clothes the nation 8-10. He adorns her, providing (abundantly) for her every need. She became ...

Ezekiel 12-15 -- Friday, September 10

Ezekiel 12 The Lord commands Ezekiel to 'pack his bags' and go through the city, dig a hole in the wall and go through it. 1-6. This was to be a 'sign' to the people about what the Lord was going to do in judging them. Ezekiel did as he was commanded 7. Note: The Lord uses various me...

Ezekiel 1-11 -- Thursday, September 9

Ezekiel 1 The book of Ezekiel opens with the setting given to us. It takes place in Babylon by the river Kebar. The year is approximately 592BC. Ezekiel was a priest who was among the many Jewish exiles that were taken captive to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar. This second of three deport...

Ezekiel - Introduction -- Friday, September 3

Ezekiel - Introduction Ezekiel was taken captive to Babylon and was one of the Jewish exiles. The prophecies he delivered to the people spoke of the Lord's hand in both judgment and restoration of the people and worship. There are a number of visions he had of God's glory as it wa...

Lamentations - Introduction -- Friday, September 3

Lamentations - Introduction The book of Lamentations is Jeremiah's journal and journey through sorrow and heartbreak as he saw the judgment of God fall with the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylons. The deep anguish of soul is 'felt' in this book. It also contains hope that the...

Jeremiah - Introduction -- Friday, September 3

Jeremiah - Introduction Jeremiah was a called to be God's prophet to the people of Judah. He gave them God's message, warning them of the judgment of God that was about to fall on them in the form of the Babylonian Captivity which would last 70 years (25:9-12). As dark and as pain...

Isaiah58-66 -- Friday, September 3

Isaiah 58 The Lord evaluates His people's approach to Him with fasting. They 'seem' to want to serve and know the Lord, yet He is not responsive to them 1-3a. They, in fact are quarrelsome and are but going through the external ritual of fasting without a real change of heart and act...

Isaiah 52-57 -- Thursday, September 2

Isaiah 52 The Lord gives words of hope and comfort to Zion and Jerusalem, whose people had suffered greatly at the hands of others. In this there seemed to be no purpose 1-5, yet the Lord would make His name known out of this 6. Their restoration and deliverance is the message to be ...

Isaiah 46-51 -- Wednesday, September 1

Isaiah 46 The Lord pronounces judgment on the gods of Babylon. Their gods (idols) which they fashion and make are unable to do anything. They are a 'burden' to those who bear them and can not provide help or relief 1-2,7. Note: The idols that we set up in our lives as just the same. ...

Isaiah 40-45 -- Monday, August 30

Isaiah 40 With this chapter we enter the second section of Isaiah (40-66). The main theme and focus in this section is the grace, restoration, and comfort that the Lord will bring to his people after they under go the judgments of God 1-2. The Lord speaks these words of comfort and c...

Isaiah 34-39 -- Wednesday, August 25

Isaiah 34 After announcing judgment on individual and specific nations the Lord now speaks of His judgment against the nations. (This can be and is a warning to all the nations of the world at all times). These words are against all (2) and exclude none. The effect (in fulfillment) i...

Isaiah 22-24 -- Tuesday, August 10

Isaiah 22 This prophecy is about Jerusalem here called the 'Valley of Vision' 1. The people would be lead captive 2-3. Isaiah weeps over this while the people face this judgment with confidence in themselves 5-11. They have failed to look to the Lord 11b, fail to mourn and be broken ...

Isaiah 25-33 -- Tuesday, August 10

Isaiah 25 Interesting that in the midst of all these message of judgment by the Lord the theme shifts here to one of praise to the Lord. He is faithful in fulfilling all His plans 1. Isaiah sees this in the judgment of the wicked and the refuge the Lord is to those who look to HIM 2-...

Isaiah 10-21 -- Tuesday, August 3

Isaiah 10 Here is the seventh woe spoken by the Lord against injustice 1-2. When God brings His judgment there is no place to escape 3-4. The eighth woe is against Assyria. They would be used by the Lord to fulfill His purpose 5-7. No matter what plans are made, God rules even as the...

Isaiah 1-9 -- Thursday, July 29

Isaiah 1 Verse 1 gives us the setting of this book and its writer, who is Isaiah, son of Amoz. It was a series of messages given to the Southern Kingdom of Judah, both to the people and the kings. The Lord speaks of what He is about to do in judgment upon His people. The reasons are ...

Isaiah - Introduction -- Wednesday, July 28

Isaiah - Introduction The book of Isaiah is the first of the five 'Major Prophets' (so-called for the length of their books) It has 66 chapters and is divided into two major themes. In 1-39 the focus is primarily on the judgment God pronounces on Israel and the nations. In 40-66 th...

Song of Solomon 1-8 -- Wednesday, July 28

Song of Solomon 1 Solomon calls this the 'song of songs' meaning that it is the greatest of songs 1. Note: Could this not be applied to the Lord Jesus Christ who is the song of songs ? He is the greatest person and theme of which we can think, speak, write, or sing. For He is the ete...

Song of Solomon - Introduction -- Tuesday, July 27

Song of Solomon - Introduction This is the third book written by Solomon, however it may be the first one he wrote. Someone has suggested that he wrote The Song of Solomon (or Song of Songs - the best of his works) early in life, Proverbs in mid-life and Ecclesiastes later in life....

Ecclesiastes 1-12 -- Monday, July 26

Ecclesiastes 1 The writer of this book is Solomon 1,12. He alone (of all the kings of Israel, who reigned from Jerusalem) could have undertaken the various tasks and doings in his search for meaning 'under the sun' (3b). He has the time, money, resources, and wisdom do try all these ...

Ecclesiastes - Introduction -- Wednesday, July 21

Ecclesiastes - Introduction The book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon 1:1 and can be called the record of his journey of trying to find meaning in the activities of life apart from the Lord. Solomon started with a heart for God, but his many foreign wives turned his heart awa...

Proverbs 25-31 -- Wednesday, July 21

Proverbs 25 Proverbs 25-29 are those that were spoken and written by Solomon, but organized and added to his 'book' by the men of Hezekiah (probably scribes) 1. The role and rule of a wise king is mentioned in 2-6. One is to be wise in how he approaches a king (or ruler) 7 and in mat...

Proverbs 19-24 -- Wednesday, July 21

Proverbs 19 Zeal can motivate a person, but with zeal there needs to be knowledge or one can speak in haste, not having all the facts, and thus miss 'God's' way in the matter 2. Stated another way 'a little knowledge can be dangerous'. This is why those who seek wisdom and accept ins...

Proverbs 15-18 -- Wednesday, July 21

Proverbs 15 There are several proverbs that deal with our words and how we respond to others 1-2,7,14,23,28. We show wisdom in our words when they are gentle 1, spread knowledge 7, are carefully spoken 28. The Lord is mentioned over and over in these proverbs. His eyes see all 3, He ...

Proverbs 8-14 -- Thursday, July 15

Proverbs 8 In this 'chapter' Solomon portrays wisdom as a woman who calls out for men to listen, take heed, and learn from her, so as to be wise and benefit as a result. Wisdom is available to all 4. One must listen for wisdom 5-6. Wisdom speaks what is true, just, right, and faultle...

Proverbs 1-7 -- Wednesday, July 14

Proverbs 1 The book of Proverbs begins with Solomon introducing himself as the writer of this book 1. The author, however is God, Himself who inspired each and every word (see: 2 Peter 1:21). He states his purpose as being to gain wisdom, discipline, understanding, to do what is righ...

Proverbs - Introduction -- Monday, July 12

Proverbs - Introduction The book of Proverbs follows the Psalms and is a distinct  type of writing in the Old Testament. It is a book of wisdom which indicates what a life looks like when lived according to the wisdom that comes from the Lord.  A 'proverb' is usually a sh...

Psalms 145-150 -- Monday, July 12

Psalm 145 This is the final psalm ascribed to David and it concludes the section of psalms written by him (140-145). I find it fitting that in the last psalm by David, his focus is praising the Lord. The book of psalms is building to a crescendo of praise, and David, the king, praise...

Psalms 140-144 -- Saturday, July 10

Psalm 140 The next six Psalms (140-145) are all penned by David, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. He calls on God for rescue from both the plots 1-3 and the actions that wicked men have taken against him 4-5. Note: Those who know the Lord and are godly are become the targets of tho...

Psalms 133-139 -- Thursday, July 8

Psalm 133 This psalm of ascent extols the goodness and blessing for brothers who dwell in unity 1. Unity is likened to the anointing oil that was poured on Aaron's head as priest 2. This was a visible sign of God's choosing him to minister on behalf of the people. Was this to remind ...

Psalms 119-132 -- Wednesday, July 7

Psalm 119 This is the longest psalm and longest chapter in the Bible. The focus of the entire psalm is the Word of God and its place and impact on the life of one who seeks to know, love, and follow the Lord. Verses 1-2 say that those who walk according to God's law and keep it are b...

Psalms 113-118 -- Friday, July 2

Psalm 113 The Lord is to be praised now and forever and all day long 1-3. The Lord is exalted over all 4 and has no equal 5. He is enthroned and 'stoops down' to see the heaven and the earth 5-6. Note: The Lord is transcendent, which means HE is above all things. There is no one and ...

Psalms 103-112 -- Friday, July 2

Psalm 103 This is a psalm of praise in which David encourages himself to praise the Lord 1. He recounts all the blessings and benefits which the Lord has bestowed in his life both spiritual (forgiveness) and physical (healing) and material (good things) and temporal (justice) 1-6. Th...

Psalms 90-102 -- Monday, June 28

Psalm 90 This psalm begins book four (90-106) in the Psalms. This psalm is ascribed to Moses the man of God (title). He declares the eternalness of God 2 and finiteness of man 3-6. We all soon fade and die, but God is from everlasting to everlasting. Since God is eternal, HE is not b...

Psalms 82-89 -- Friday, June 25

Psalm 82 This is an interesting psalm because of the contrast that is made between God, who is the 'presiding judge' in the great assembly 1 and the judges who serve among God's people here on earth. Notice that God calls these judges 'gods' but they are mere men 6-7. This is not to ...

Psalms 76-81 -- Wednesday, June 23

Psalm 76 This psalm of Asaph was a song (title), with the theme of God's greatness being seen in His acts of judgment. God was known in Judah and Israel. He dwelt in their midst, so they as a people and nation had a 'knowledge' of the true and living God ! 1-3. God's mighty and majes...

Psalms 70-75 -- Monday, June 21

Psalm 70 David petitions the Lord for rescue and deliverance from his enemies. He asks the Lord to act quickly 1,5. His request is for those who seek his life to be put to shame 2-3. Note: God has a way of putting to shame those who attack His own people. In all cases, we (like David...

Psalms 61-69 -- Wednesday, June 16

Psalm 61 The theme of this psalm is a request for the Lord to help. Overwhelmed, David seeks the Lord as a refuge for him in the midst of his enemies 1-3. Note: The Lord is seen as 'a rock', which is a place of refuge. (see Psalm 62:2,6-7). The Lord's tent is the place of His presenc...

Psalms 49-60 -- Monday, June 14

Psalm 49 This is the eighth Psalm (in a row) written by one of the sons of Korah. The exhortation is for peoples (Gentiles) and all who live on this earth to listen 1, all classes 2, because what is about to be said is wisdom and understanding 3-4. There is no reason to fear when evi...

Psalms 42-48 -- Friday, June 11

Note... With this psalm begins the second book (42-72) which make up the Psalms. One thing you will notice is that a number of these psalms are written by the Sons of Korah (see titles), although we still have many by David as well. There appears to be an emphasis on the nation's rel...

Psalms 37-41 -- Wednesday, June 9

Psalm 37 This psalm is an acrostic which means that in the Hebrew, each verse begins with a different letter of the alphabet. This is an A-Z contrast of the wicked and the righteous. David says not to fret because of evil doers because they will be cut off and soon be no more 1-2. Th...

Psalms 31-36 -- Wednesday, June 9

Psalm 31 David expresses his faith in the Lord and prays for the Lord's deliverance 1-5. David entrusted even his very spirit to the Lord 5. He did not just look to God for merely temporal needs but also his eternal soul. Note: Jesus as His dismissed His spirit and died uttered these...

Psalms 22-30 -- Tuesday, June 8

Psalm 22 The opening words of this psalm take us immediately to the cross of Jesus Christ and the words He spoke while suffering on the cross 1. These words are prophetic, looking forward and messianic. It is hard to know exactly what David was going through that caused him to feel f...

Psalms 16-21 -- Friday, June 4

Psalm 16 In this Psalm David reflects on His relationship to the Lord as his refuge and his portion 1-2. So precious is this relationship, that he will not even speak the names of false gods. He sees the futility of those who serve them 4. David praises the Lord for his 'lot in life'...

Psalms 9-15 -- Friday, May 28

Psalm 9 David begins with praise of the Lord 1. Heart filled praise includes telling of God's wonders, being glad and rejoicing in the Lord, along with singing to His name, the Lord Most High 1b-2. David then prays, asking God to deal with his enemies 3 and describes the judgment of ...

Psalms 1-8 -- Thursday, May 27

Psalm 1 The book of Psalms opens with a theme which is interwoven through the rest of the psalms, namely the godly (righteous) and the ungodly (wicked). Blessed is the man (and woman) who does not walk (live according to) the counsel (viewpoints, philosophy) of the wicked, nor stand ...

Psalms - Introduction -- Monday, May 24

Psalms - Introduction The book of Psalms has been called the 'hymnal of the Old Testament' because most, if not all, of the Psalms were sung and used as part of the worship of the Lord throughout the year. As we read the Psalms, we can identify with the writer in many ways s...

Job 32-42 -- Monday, May 24

Job 32 Elihu takes the time to rebuke both Job and the other friends who had been speaking. His words are recorded in chapters 32-37. He is angry with Job, who justifies himself rather than God 2 and is angry with the other three friends who find fault with Job but have no basis for ...

Job 22-31 -- Friday, May 21

Job 22 Eliphaz then replies that Job can not benefit the Lord by his claim to be righteous 1-4. God is not moved by this. He then makes  direct accusations against Job 6-9 and says that is why he is suffering 10-11 (for his wicked deeds). Eliphaz then states that Job has a disto...

Job 15-21 -- Thursday, May 20

Job 15 Eliphaz replies to Job's statements and chastises him for claiming wisdom in these matters that no one else has, even the aged 1-11. He asks why Job was 'venting' against God 12-13. Then he states that God puts no trust in moral man (because of his sin) 15-16. Eliphaz 'observe...

Job 8-14 -- Wednesday, May 19

Job 8 Bildad suggests that Job must be at fault for something before God 1-4. If he were upright as he contends, God would come to the help of Job 5-7. He challenges Job to look around, learn from others 8-10 and see how the godless act and suffer 11-19. God, he says, does not reject...

Job 1-7 -- Monday, May 17

Job 1 The book of Job opens with the man of God Job, who is described as 'blameless' and 'upright' A 'God-fearing' man who shunned evil 1. Note: This is a good definition of a true man or woman of God. He was very wealthy and prosperous by God's blessing 2-3, 9-10. He worshiped the t...

Job - Introduction -- Thursday, May 13

Job - Introduction The book of Job is a book that deals with the problem of suffering in this life. Many things happen to us that are difficult and hard, to which there are no clear answers. Job teaches us that even the righteous will have trials, troubles, and tribulations. It al...

Esther 1-10 -- Thursday, May 13

Esther 1 The book of Esther opens with King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia giving a feast for all his nobles and officials 1-3. It must have been some celebration to last 180 days 4. The culmination was a 7 day celebration at which the king commanded Queen Vashti to come and display he...

Esther - Introduction -- Wednesday, May 12

Esther - Introduction The book of Esther comes in the middle (historically) of the book of Ezra between chapters 6 and 7. It was during that 57 year period the Jews faced opposition and annihilation through the plots of Haman, who hated the Jews. God, however raised up a Jewish gir...

Nehemiah 10-13 -- Wednesday, May 12

Nehemiah 10 The binding agreement to follow the Lord is sealed by the leaders of the people beginning with Nehemiah 1 and including the priests 1b-8, the Levites 9-13, the leaders 14-27, and the rest of the people 28 ff. They pledge themselves to obey the Law of the Lord 29,avoiding ...

Nehemiah 4-9 -- Monday, May 10

Nehemiah 4 Sanballat and Tobiah were enemies of the Jews and actively opposed the work of rebuilding the wall. They ridicule and mock the work being done 1-3. Note: Is this not like the Devil and those who are unbelievers. They mock at God, His people and the work to which God has ca...

Nehemiah 1-3 -- Friday, May 7

Nehemiah 1 Nehemiah, who was cup bearer to the king 10b, inquires about his fellow Jews who had returned to Jerusalem from exile 1-2. The report was bad in that they were in trouble and disgraced by their enemies and the wall being broken 3. His first response was to mourn, fast, and...

Nehemiah - Introduction -- Thursday, May 6

Nehemiah - Introduction Nehemiah was a man God raised up and used to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. He was a laymen and a 'noble representative of the businessman' (McGee). This is last of the historical books in terms of Israel's history. It takes place about 15 years after the e...

Ezra 8-10 -- Thursday, May 6

Ezra 8 When Ezra returned to Jerusalem he brought with him another group of the exiles. They were registered and their family records updated 1-14. Note: I counted up the number of men who came which equaled 1496 men. Having an accurate record was important for land purposes (ie. to ...

Ezra 1-7 -- Wednesday, May 5

Ezra 1 At the conclusion of the 70 years of Babylonian captivity the Lord stirs the heart of king Cyrus of Persia to allow the Jews to return and rebuild the Temple of the Lord 1-4. God put this in his heart and indicates that the Sovereign Lord can and does move individuals to do Hi...

2 Chronicles 33-36 -- Monday, May 3

post is forthcoming ...

2 Chronicles 20-32 -- Monday, May 3

post is forthcoming ...

2 Chronicles 8-18 -- Monday, May 3

post is forthcoming ...

2 Chronicles 1-7 -- Monday, May 3

2 Chronicles 1 Solomon is established as king and made great by the Lord 1. The Lord gave Solomon a 'blank check' when He offered to do for him whatever Solomon requested. Solomon requested wisdom from the Lord to govern the people. This pleased the Lord and He gave him over and abov...

Ezra Introduction -- Tuesday, May 4

Ezra - Introduction The book of Ezra records the return of some Jewish exiles from the Babylonian captivity. Not manyreturned to the land, in fact there were three groups that returned at three different times under three different leaders. The first was under Zerubbabel in 536 BC...

2 Chronicles - Introduction -- Thursday, April 22

2 Chronicles - Introduction 2 Chronicles continues the history of the kings of Judah from the priestly and God-ward focus. Though covering some of the same accounts recorded in the Kings, this record gives insights and details which are not found in the earlier books. The kings wer...

1 Chronicles 21-29 -- Thursday, April 22

1 Chronicles 21 We are told here that David's numbering of the people was prompted by Satan who rose up against Israel 1-2. Though Joab tried to dissuade David from doing this, David insisted and the people were numbered 3-6 (1.1 million fighting men in all 5). This was evil in the s...

1 Chronicles 10-20 -- Monday, April 19

1 Chronicles 10 This brief account tells us of Saul's death as he is defeated in battle by the Philistines and takes his own life 1-6. Here we are told that Saul was unfaithful to the Lord and was judged by Him as a result 13-14. Note: Israel asked for a king to be like all the natio...

1 Chronicles 1-9 -- Friday, April 16

1 Chronicles 1-9 In the opening chapters of 1 Chronicles (1-9) we are given selective genealogies from Adam (the first man) to people who returned from the Babylonian exile. At first read, this may appear to be pointless information, however careful study we yield insight into the...

1 Chronicles - Introduction -- Wednesday, April 14

1 Chronicles - Introduction The books of the Chronicles record extra details and give us the priests' perspective on the history of the kingdom from David to the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. It was written after the Babylonian Captivity (which lasted 70 years) as the...

2 Kings 18-25 -- Wednesday, April 14

2 Kings 18 Hezekiah is one of the more well known kings of Judah. He was a godly king who brought reform to the people. He personally held fast to the Lord 3-6 and was successful 7. By way of contrast Israel in the North fell to Assyria because of their sins 9-12. Judah, however, was...

2 Kings 11-17 -- Monday, April 12

2 Kings 11 Athaliah, mother of Ahaziah, kills off the royal family and assumes the throne, herself. One escapes namely Joash. He is hidden for six years then is anointed and proclaimed king 1-12 He is protected and crowned king by the hand of the priest Jehoiada with the help of guar...

2 Kings 4-10 -- Thursday, April 8

2 Kings 4 Elisha instructs a widow woman to pour oil into jars and sell it to pay her debts 1-7. This was a miracle of the Lord for the oil she had was multiplied 2b,5. This indicates that the Lord is able to meet the needs of His people. Note: Elisha is a type of Christ, for the min...

2 Kings 1-3 -- Tuesday, April 6

2 Kings 1 Ahaziah did evil in the eyes of the Lord (1 Kings 22:52) and has an accident that causes him to be bed ridden. He inquires of a false god Baal-Zebub to see if he will recover 1-2. Elijah is told to rebuke him for this. The Lord's message: Why does he not inquire of the Lord...

2 Kings - Introduction -- Tuesday, April 6

2 Kings - Introduction The book of 2nd Kings continues the history of the Jewish nation under successive kings. We learned that the kingdom was divided in two with Israel in the North and Judah in the South. This was due to Solomon's half heartedness towards the Lord and his introd...

1 Kings 20-22 -- Tuesday, April 6

1 Kings 20 Ben-Hadad gets 32 other kings along with himself to come against Samaria (capital of Israel in the North) 1. He makes demands of Ahab that includes silver, gold, wives, and children. He agrees to this and more is demanded, but Ahab's officials say no 2-8. This enrages Ben-...

1 Kings 11-19 -- Monday, April 5

1 Kings 11 At this point we read that Solomon turned from the Lord and became half hearted towards Him 4,6,9. Part of the problem was the foreign wives (and he had lots 700 ! v. 3) who turned his heart away from the Lord 3-8. Note two things: We must all be on guard lest we be lead a...

1 Kings 5-10 -- Friday, April 2

1 Kings 5 Hiram, king of Tyre is enlisted to provide the timber needed to build the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem by Solomon 1-6. David was not permitted to build the temple, because he was a man of war 3. Note: It is interesting how the Lord worked through David in choosing the pl...

1 Kings 1-4 -- Friday, April 2

1 Kings 1 David's reign comes to a close as he advances in years. A beautiful young woman is brought to David to keep him warm, though no physical relations occur with her 1-4. Adonijah takes it upon himself to declare himself king 5-6. He gains the support of some of David's men but...

1 Kings - Introduction -- Wednesday, March 31

1 Kings - Introduction The book of 1st Kings continues the history of Israel under Kings. The opening of the book records Solomon succeeding David as king. Under his reign the temple is built and the nation has peace. Solomon's heart is drawn way from the Lord and as a result the ...

2 Samuel 9-24 -- Wednesday, March 31

2 Samuel 9 The account recorded in this chapter serves as an illustration of pure grace. David asks if there is anyone to whom he can show the 'kindness of God' from the house of Saul 1-3. Only Mephibosheth is left. He is crippled in both feet 3b. He is one who may be consid...

2 Samuel 1-8 -- Thursday, March 25

2 Samuel 1 2 Samuel picks up where 1 Samuel left off with the death of Saul and his sons. David is informed by a man who is an Amalekite 1,8. He claims to have put Saul to death. (Probably thinking he would be rewarded for this) 1-10. David reacts with mourning, weeping, and fasting ...

2 Samuel - Introduction -- Monday, March 22

2 Samuel continue the history of Israel under David as king. The Lord uses him greatly and his rule is a blessing as a man after God's own heart. The Lord establishes him as king and promises that his kingdom will endure before the Lord forever. In many ways David is a type of Christ, his g...

1 Samuel 25-31 -- Monday, March 22

1 Samuel 25 Samuel dies and is mourned by all of Israel 1. (The last 'judge' of Israel is now gone). David and his men come to Carmel. They protect the herds of Nabal who was a descendant of Caleb, though he certainly did not act like him. Nabal was wealthy, selfish, and mean 2-3. Da...

1 Samuel 15-24 -- Friday, March 19

1 Samuel 15 Samuel gives Saul specific instructions and commands concerning the total destruction of the Amalekites. He was to destroy everything. 1-3. The Kenites are removed so that they would not be harmed (because they showed kindness to Israel) 4-6. Saul and the army spare Agag,...

1 Samuel 9-14 -- Thursday, March 18

1 Samuel 9 In this account we are introduced to Saul the son of Kish 1-2. He is described as taller than the rest and was impressive. The lost donkeys bring Saul and a servant to Samuel. 3-13. The Lord lost the donkeys to bring Saul to Samuel 14-16. The Lord told Samuel to anoint the...

1 Samuel 1-8 -- Wednesday, March 17

1 Samuel 1 This book opens with the background of Samuel's family. Elikanah had two wives, the one of which (Hannah) was barren, unable to have children 1-5. This was from the Lord 5. Hannah prays for a son that she will give to the Lord and His service, if the Lord would grant her r...

1 Samuel Introduction -- Monday, March 15

First Samuel continues the history of God's people as they move from judges leading them to wanting a king to rule over them. It records the establishment of kingship in Israel. God grants them a king in Saul (who was just like the kings which the nations around them had). He is rejected by...

Ruth 1-4 -- Monday, March 15

Ruth 1 The setting of the book of Ruth occurs during the time of the Judges 1. Elimelech and Naomi (his wife) take their two sons and leave Bethlehem to live in Moab because of a famine 2. Elimelech dies and the two sons marry Moabite women 3-4. After 10 years the sons die leaving Na...

Ruth Introduction -- Sunday, March 14

The book of Ruth is small (only 4 chapters) yet is it significant in that it becomes a bridge from  the time of the Judges to the Kings of Israel. It is also a book that teaches the 'Kinsman-Redeemer' law that is fulfilled in the person and work of Christ and is applied to all who woul...

Judges 16-21 -- Sunday, March 14

Judges 16 Samson was morally weak when it came to women. He is with a prostitute 1, which allows his enemies an opportunity to overtake him 2. He escapes carrying the gates of the city on his shoulders 3. He 'falls in love with Delilah' 4. She tries to find the secret of his strength...
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Judges 9-15 -- Thursday, March 11

Judges 9 Here we are told of the Abimelech and his 'reign as king' over the people of Shechem and portions of Israel. He had all his half brothers (the sons of Gideon) executed and was crowned king 1-6. Jothan escapes and pronounces a curse on him and the people by way of a parable 7...

Judges 1-8 -- Monday, March 8

Judges 1 This book opens with the Israelites still fighting to claim the land God promised as an inheritance. Judah takes the lead role, by the Lord's direction 1-10. Caleb is still going strong and offers his daughter to the one who captures the city 11-15. Othniel (later a judge) i...

Judges Introduction -- Friday, March 5

The history of Israel continues in the book of Judges. Judges covers a period of about 350 years and is a sad era in that, 'during those days their was no king in Israel and everyone did what was right in His own eyes' (17:6, 21:25). God raised up delivers for His people who were known as "...

Joshua 16-24 -- Friday, March 5

Joshua 16 The inheritance / allotment of the land for Joseph through Ephraim is listed here. Though the land was given to them they did not dislodge the Canaanites but allowed them to live among themselves. They put them to forced labor 10. This was not in keeping with the Lord's com...

Joshua 7-15 -- Wednesday, March 3

Joshua 7 In this account Israel is defeated at Ai because Achan took some of the things that were under ban  and devoted to destruction 1-12. Through a process of elimination (possibly lots ?) the tribe of Judah was taken and so on till Achan 13-18. Achan confesses his sin which...

Joshua 1-6 -- Monday, March 1

Joshua 1 In the shadow and memory of Moses the Lord affirms Joshua as the chosen leader of His people 1-9. The Lord says 'be strong and courageous' 6,7,9. What encouragement is in the reality that the Lord will never forsake 5b and is with you where ever you go 9b. Note: It is diffic...

Joshua Introduction -- Friday, February 26

The book of Joshua continues the History of Israel as they prepare and then enter the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, the son of Nun. The record of the various battles and conquest of the land serve to show that God fulfills His promises to His people when they follow and obey...

Deuteronomy 29-34 -- Friday, February 26

Deuteronomy 29 The Covenant is renewed with the people (the new generation). Even though they saw the miraculous works of the Lord, He did not give them understanding in these things 1-4. Amazing that God kept them fed and clothed for 40 years 5-6. They had victory in Moab and 2 and ...

Deuteronomy 21-28 -- Wednesday, February 24

Deuteronomy 21 The Lord commands that atonement be made for one who is found slain but the murderer is not known 1-9. This was so the guilt of bloodshed would be removed from their midst. Note: I image this, like all the other sacrifices, was a solemn ceremony with the declaration th...

Deuteronomy 13-20 -- Monday, February 22

Deuteronomy 13 The Lord gives direction concerning prophets who arise among the people. Even if a sign or wonder was preformed to confirm their message, the people had to exercise discernment and execute judgment (death) since the prophet tried to lure the people away from the Lord t...

Deuteronomy 7-12 -- Friday, February 19

Deuteronomy 7 The Lord is very clear about driving out the nations from the land He was giving to the Israelites. They were to utterly destroy them, and smash their altars and sacred stones 1-5. The reason was Israel was to be a holy people to the Lord 6-8. They were to keep th...

Deuteronomy 1-6 -- Thursday, February 18

Deuteronomy 1 As this book opens Moses begins by retelling the history of the Israelites as they came out of Egypt to the borders of the promised land. The Lord swore that He would give them the land 8,21,25. They had to go in and possess it. However they became fearful and rebelled ...

Deuteronomy Introdcution -- Thursday, February 18

Deuteronomy Introduction The book of Deuteronomy is the last of the five books of Moses, commonly called "The Pentateuch". Deuteronomy means 'second law' because in this book Moses restates God's Law for the new generation that is about to go in and claim the 'Promised Land' . How...

Numbers 26-36 -- Thursday, February 18

Numbers 26 This is the second census of the children of Israel. It came after the 40 years in the wilderness 63-65. The total number of men 20 years and older was 601,730 (51) which was only 1,820 less than the first census (1:46). The Levites gain over 1,000 (63) (comp 3:39). It is ...

Numbers 18-25 -- Tuesday, February 16

Numbers 18 God restates the special place and relationship that both the priests and Levites have before Him in connection with the work and ministry of the Tabernacle. Each had unique roles 1-7. The Levites were a gift to the priests for the purpose of assisting them in service of t...

Numbers 9-17 -- Thursday, February 11

Numbers 9 The Israelites keep the Passover in the second year after leaving Egypt. They do as the Lord commanded them 1-5. Note: It struck me that the Israelites did many of the things God had commanded them (1:2,44, 2:34, 3:16, 4:49, 5:4, 8:20, 9:5,19,23). They kept His law, but cou...

Numbers 1-8 -- Monday, February 8

In the opening chapter God commands Moses to take a census of all the able men from the age of 20 and up who were able to serve in the army 1-4. The heads of tribes were to help in this process 4,16-19. God knows these men by name "whose names had been given" 17 by God 5. Note: Every person...
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Numbers Introduction -- Thursday, February 4

The Book of Numbers comes nest in our journey through the Bible. The title comes from the two numberings of the children of Israel during the 38 years of the wilderness wanderings. It also records their failure to go in and possess the land God was giving them and the various places ...

Leviticus 16-27 -- Thursday, February 4

Leviticus 16 The Day of Atonement was once a year in which Aaron (the high priest) would offer a sacrifice for himself and all of Israel for their sins 6,34. We are told of the two goats (the sacrifice & the scapegoat) 8-9,15-16,20-22. This is a type and picture of the Lord Jesus...
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Leviticus 8-15 -- Monday, February 1

Leviticus 8 Details are given here of Aaron and his sons' ordination as priests. They were set-apart (consecrated) to the Lord's service. The anointing with oil symbolized this 10-12. Blood was applied to the right ear lobe, thumb of the right hand, and big toe of the right foot 22-2...

Leviticus 1-7 -- Friday, January 29

Leviticus 1 Instructions are given for a person making a Burnt Offering from his hear, flock and birds. The individual had a role in the sacrifice 3,5,6. This made atonement for the person's sin. Atonement means 'to cover over, to propitiate, to pacify' and is found at least 49x in L...

Leviticus Introduction -- Wednesday, January 27

The book of Leviticus is the 3rd book of the Bible. Many people in reading through the Bible give up about half way through this book. This is not because it can not be understood, but because the application to us in the 21 century is not easily seen. It is worth the study for we discover ...
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Exodus 35-40 -- Wednesday, January 27

Exodus 35 Moses tells of the need for materials and skilled workers to build the Tabernacle, the priestly garments, and other items to be used in the worship of the Lord 1-19. I notice repeatedly that we are told that those who give do so out of a willing heart 5,21,29. They withdraw...

Exodus 18-34 -- Tuesday, January 26

Exodus 18 Moses reunites with his father-in-law Jethro 1-13. When Jethro hears of the Lord and the great deliverance HE accomplished for Israel; He praises God (10), offers sacrifices to Him (worship) (12), and enjoys fellowship with the Lord and Moses and Aaron (12b). Note: Hearing ...
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Exodus 8-17 -- Thursday, January 21

Exodus 8 The plague of frog come upon the land at the command of the Lord 1-6. Magicians do the same 7. Pharaoh asks Moses to pray for the frogs to be removed, then I will let you go 8. God answers prayer specifically so Pharaoh will realize "There is no one like the Lord our God" 9-...

Exodus 1-7 -- Monday, January 18

Exodus 1 The setting is in Egypt where the Israelites grow and multiply. Pharaoh's fear was that they would join and enemy in war and leave the country. 1-10. Was Egypt 'blessed' economically and in other ways because of the Jewish people ? If they dreaded the Israelites how did they...

Exodus Introduction -- Friday, January 15

Exodus means 'a way out' or 'exit' (from the Latin & Greek) This second book of the Old Testament begins with the Jewish people in bondage and ends with Worship of the Lord. It is a book which teaches and illustrates the redemption and deliverance that only God can accomplish ...
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Genesis 33-50 -- Friday, January 15

Genesis 33 Jacob reunites with Esau. I am sure this is not the response Jacob expected from Esau (4). Jacob is very kind and gracious towards his brother. I sense a change in Esau 4,9,11b,16. Does this indicate that God dealt with his heart also during these years of separation ? 4-1...
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Genesis 19-32 -- Monday, January 11

Genesis 19 God in His mercy spares Lot from judgment 19:16,19,29. The account of this chapter serves as a reminder that God is Holy and His judges and will judge (in the future) all sin. See: Jude 1:5-7 Note: None of us deserves God's grace, in fact if God were to give...
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Genesis 12-18 -- Friday, January 8

Genesis 12-18 Genesis 12 God calls Abram. He is 75 years old. Can you image packing everything up, leaving all that is familiar and going to a place God said he would show you...

Genesis 1-11 -- Monday, January 4

If you have continued with the daily the readings through today you would have read Genesis 1-11. This portion of Scripture covers about 2000 yrs of human history and God's involvement in it. Notice that God does not give us every detail in each account recorded, only what He wanted for us ...
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Genesis The book of Beginnings -- Thursday, December 24

Genesis - 'The Book of Beginnings' Genesis means 'beginning' and opens the Bible with the words "In the beginning God..." If you accept this simple and profound statement the rest of the the Bible is able to be believed, affirmed, and obeyed as God's revelation of Himsel...