Devotionals
Depth in the Details
Sometimes, as we go through Scripture, we encounter sections that can feel difficult to draw insights from. Lists of names, genealogies, and city assignments might seem irrelevant to us today, but every part of Scripture is inspired by God and holds a purpose. Even if it doesn’t seem obvious at first, if we are willing... Read More →
Not All Help Is Good Help: How to Protect Your Purpose
In today’s reading, the Israelites return from exile with a clear mission: to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. This was more than just a construction project; it was about restoring their spiritual connection with God. Yet, in the midst of their work, they faced a dilemma. When neighboring groups offered to help, the Israelites made... Read More →
God’s Blueprint for Restoration: What Ezekiel 40 Teaches Us Today
In Ezekiel 40, we encounter a remarkable vision that paints a vivid picture of hope and restoration. Set during a time of exile for the Israelites, this passage offers a glimpse of a future temple that symbolizes God’s enduring presence among His people. While the detailed measurements and structures may seem overwhelming at first glance,... Read More →
Real History, Real People, Real Events: The Tangible Roots of the Christian Faith
The Bible is not just a collection of spiritual teachings but also a document deeply rooted in real history, involving real people and events. Today’s reading from 1 Chronicles 5:18–26; 6:3b–15, 49; 7:1–8:28 emphasizes the genealogies and tribal histories of Israel, highlighting the tangible reality of the biblical narrative. These genealogies are not mere lists;... Read More →
Son of Man — What Does THAT Mean?
During today’s reading, I again noticed Ezekiel being constantly referred to as the “son of man.” So I would like to briefly explore what this phrase means, where we see it in Scripture, and why it is significant. In the case of Ezekiel, “son of man” is meant to underscore his human frailty and his... Read More →
Can God Still Work Through Me If I Suck?
I’ll just say it, I find David’s orders to his son to kill Joab and Shimei to be deeply troubling. If Joab had done something worthy of death, then David should have killed him. But David did not, likely because Joab provided an incredible amount of utility to him. Then There’s Shimei, who had cursed... Read More →
They Can’t Argue Your Testimony
But set Christ apart as Lord in your hearts and always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks about the hope you possess. 1 Peter 3:15, NET This verse is as terrifying to some as it is inspiring to others. Do I have to give a whole Gospel presentation? What if I... Read More →
Are Our Prayers Results-Oriented?
While going through today’s reading, one verse hit me in the face with the force of a heavyweight boxer. David is praying for his son, Solomon, who will become king. David says, Give my son Solomon the wholehearted desire to obey all your commands, laws, and decrees, and to do everything necessary to build this... Read More →
Sola Scriptura
This phrase was the rallying cry of the Protestant Reformation and comes from the Latin: sola meaning “alone” and the word scriptura meaning “writings” (the Scriptures, the Holy BIble). Sola scriptura declares that Scripture alone is authoritative in the life of the Christian as it pertains to matters of faith and truth. The Bible is complete, authoritative, and true. Today I... Read More →
What is Casting Lots Anyway?
Just a brief explainer for today. We see casting lots pop up 25 times in the Bible. The first is God giving directions to Aaron in Leviticus 16:7-9, the final one is the nomination of Mathias in Acts 1:26, and the most secular is the dividing of Jesus’ clothes in Matthew 27:35, Mark 15:24-25, Luke... Read More →
(Not) Having All The Answers
I’ll just say it… 2 Samuel says that God told David to take a census (then punished him for it), whereas 1 Chronicles says that Satan led David to take a census and then God punished him for it. I find the theories online quite unsatisfying and I find it frustrating that I don’t have... Read More →
Fickle Friends
Absalom is dead and his coup with him. David returns to Jerusalem, his victory undercut by the death of his son. God’s promise that David’s sin would lead to his family living (and dying) by the sword is coming to pass. And during his return to Jerusalem several men from all the tribes of Israel... Read More →