Good afternoon, everyone!
Today I read Isaiah 13-17.
These chapters are prophecies about the destruction of Babylon, Assyria, Moab, and Damascus.
In the day of judgment, the Lord will rebuke them for their sins, and the cities will be leveled.
Not every part of the Bible is flowery, and not all of it is easy to read, even if you understand it.
God is merciful, and there is grace. But there is also punishment for the sins of the unrepentant.
Now, a question I had when I was reading this was "where are these places?" So I'm going to do some research and find out. Bear with me just a moment...
Ah. There.
Babylon is in modern-day Iraq, or at least, its ruins are.
What is left of Assyria is in Iraq and southeastern Turkey
Moab is located east of the Jordan river. It was overrun during the Persian period and is no longer a country.
Damascus still exists, and is the capital of modern-day Syria. The old city of Damascus, however, is rapidly declining due to modern developments.
I always find it interesting to see where these places were located. The old prophecies are interesting too, even when I don't fully understand them.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 18-22.
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Monday, July 30, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 210: Jesus in the Old Testament
Good morning everyone!
Today I read Isaiah 9-12.
Did you know that Isaiah is a book of prophecy? Did you also know that Isaiah foretells the coming of Jesus, both the first time he came in humble birth and the second time he will come in all his majestic power?
Isaiah 9:6-7 - For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.
Isaiah 11:1-5 - Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And He will delight in the fear of the LORD, and He will not judge by what His eyes see, nor make a decision by what His ears hear; but with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; And He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Also righteousness will be the belt about His loins, and faithfulness the belt about His waist.
Doesn't that sound powerful? We know that Jesus came the first time not to overthrow governments but to teach people the truth about God's laws and commandments. He came to die for our sins, so that we could all have eternal life through Him.
But that's not what the Israelites expected at that time. They expected their Messiah to come and overthrow the governments, particularly the Romans, who were oppressing them. They expected Him to come back with a sword and fight for them.
But He didn't come to do that the first time, and because He didn't come the way people expected, a lot of them didn't believe Jesus was the Messiah.
That's something interesting about Isaiah though. Isaiah's prophecies about the Messiah reveal not only His humble birth the first time, but also the glory of His second coming, when He really will defeat all evil in the earth.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 13-17.
Today I read Isaiah 9-12.
Did you know that Isaiah is a book of prophecy? Did you also know that Isaiah foretells the coming of Jesus, both the first time he came in humble birth and the second time he will come in all his majestic power?
Isaiah 9:6-7 - For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.
Isaiah 11:1-5 - Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And He will delight in the fear of the LORD, and He will not judge by what His eyes see, nor make a decision by what His ears hear; but with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; And He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked. Also righteousness will be the belt about His loins, and faithfulness the belt about His waist.
Doesn't that sound powerful? We know that Jesus came the first time not to overthrow governments but to teach people the truth about God's laws and commandments. He came to die for our sins, so that we could all have eternal life through Him.
But that's not what the Israelites expected at that time. They expected their Messiah to come and overthrow the governments, particularly the Romans, who were oppressing them. They expected Him to come back with a sword and fight for them.
But He didn't come to do that the first time, and because He didn't come the way people expected, a lot of them didn't believe Jesus was the Messiah.
That's something interesting about Isaiah though. Isaiah's prophecies about the Messiah reveal not only His humble birth the first time, but also the glory of His second coming, when He really will defeat all evil in the earth.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 13-17.
Sunday, July 29, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 209: Produce Good Fruit
Good morning, everyone!
It rained last night and it's overcast today, and the world looks beautiful. Out here in the desert, it's always amazing when it rains.
Today I read Isaiah 5-8. And in today's reading, the people of Israel are in trouble. Still.
There are many things I could talk about from today's reading, and I encourage you to read it, especially the description of the cherubim, but today I want to focus on this part:
Isaiah 5:3-7
God has planted a vineyard.
"And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge between Me and My vineyard. What more was there to do for My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why, when I expected it to produce good grapes did it produce worthless ones? So now let Me tell you what I am going to do to My vineyard: I will remove its hedge and it will be consumed; I will break down its wall and it will become trampled ground. I will lay it waste; It will not be pruned or hoed, but briars and thorns will come up. I will also charge the clouds to rain no rain on it." For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel and the men of Judah His delightful plant. Thus He looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, a cry of distress.
That doesn't sound good. Israel is really in trouble again. They've been ignoring God's commandments for generations, serving false gods and committing evil deeds.
But I love the imagery here.
We are God's vineyard. His garden. Each of us is a treasured plant.
Too much? Bear with me.
We are His garden, and He tends us, pruning back what is contrary to His will and commandments, planting new seeds in us, and watering us with His word, hoping that we will produce good fruit.
We can't just sit in our pew all the time, dull and lifeless. Once God has brought us back to life and spent time and energy in cultivating us, we are meant to produce fruit.
Now, the fruit isn't always the same. After all, apple trees produce apples, and orange trees produce oranges, while rose bushes produce roses.
We all have talents and God will provide an opportunity to use those talents, to produce fruit for Him. Because that's what we are meant to do.
I hope you will join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 9-12.
It rained last night and it's overcast today, and the world looks beautiful. Out here in the desert, it's always amazing when it rains.
Today I read Isaiah 5-8. And in today's reading, the people of Israel are in trouble. Still.
There are many things I could talk about from today's reading, and I encourage you to read it, especially the description of the cherubim, but today I want to focus on this part:
Isaiah 5:3-7
God has planted a vineyard.
"And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge between Me and My vineyard. What more was there to do for My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why, when I expected it to produce good grapes did it produce worthless ones? So now let Me tell you what I am going to do to My vineyard: I will remove its hedge and it will be consumed; I will break down its wall and it will become trampled ground. I will lay it waste; It will not be pruned or hoed, but briars and thorns will come up. I will also charge the clouds to rain no rain on it." For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts is the house of Israel and the men of Judah His delightful plant. Thus He looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, a cry of distress.
That doesn't sound good. Israel is really in trouble again. They've been ignoring God's commandments for generations, serving false gods and committing evil deeds.
But I love the imagery here.
We are God's vineyard. His garden. Each of us is a treasured plant.
Too much? Bear with me.
We are His garden, and He tends us, pruning back what is contrary to His will and commandments, planting new seeds in us, and watering us with His word, hoping that we will produce good fruit.
We can't just sit in our pew all the time, dull and lifeless. Once God has brought us back to life and spent time and energy in cultivating us, we are meant to produce fruit.
Now, the fruit isn't always the same. After all, apple trees produce apples, and orange trees produce oranges, while rose bushes produce roses.
We all have talents and God will provide an opportunity to use those talents, to produce fruit for Him. Because that's what we are meant to do.
I hope you will join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 9-12.
Saturday, July 28, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 208: The Book of Isaiah
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Isaiah 1-4. This is another book I don't understand very well, but I'm going to give it a try.
First of all, the book of Isaiah is a prophecy, or a vision, from the prophet Isaiah. Second, Israel is in trouble. Again. And this book is a warning.
Isaiah 1:4 - Alas, sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evildoers. Sons who act corruptly! They have abandoned the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they have turned away from Him.
And Israel is warned of what will happen if they don't turn from their evil. God declares that He is tired of their behavior in His temple. He doesn't want their sacrifices which are offered with the wrong attitude. He would prefer they not sacrifice at all than to do it with anything but their whole heart. (He wants the same from us, by the way. We don't sacrifice animals anymore, but we offer sacrifices of worship, praise, tithes, and time; but they don't mean anything if we don't mean it.)
But there is hope.
Isaiah 1:16-20 - "Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from my sight. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow. "Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool. If you consent and obey, you will eat the best of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword." Truly, the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
Wow. The same applies to us. If we sincerely repent of our sins, it will be as though they never happened. God will forgive and forget them. If we repent and turn from doing what we know is wrong, we will be washed clean.
If not, well,
Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Before I end this post today, I want to share a study on the book of Isaiah. In all honesty, it isn't my favorite, but it was a start. I still don't understand everything in Isaiah, and if you have a different study, I'd love to read it.
In the meantime, I hope you check out my recommendation by Vollie B. Sanders.
I also hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 5-8.
Today I read Isaiah 1-4. This is another book I don't understand very well, but I'm going to give it a try.
First of all, the book of Isaiah is a prophecy, or a vision, from the prophet Isaiah. Second, Israel is in trouble. Again. And this book is a warning.
Isaiah 1:4 - Alas, sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evildoers. Sons who act corruptly! They have abandoned the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they have turned away from Him.
And Israel is warned of what will happen if they don't turn from their evil. God declares that He is tired of their behavior in His temple. He doesn't want their sacrifices which are offered with the wrong attitude. He would prefer they not sacrifice at all than to do it with anything but their whole heart. (He wants the same from us, by the way. We don't sacrifice animals anymore, but we offer sacrifices of worship, praise, tithes, and time; but they don't mean anything if we don't mean it.)
But there is hope.
Isaiah 1:16-20 - "Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from my sight. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow. "Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool. If you consent and obey, you will eat the best of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword." Truly, the mouth of the LORD has spoken.
Wow. The same applies to us. If we sincerely repent of our sins, it will be as though they never happened. God will forgive and forget them. If we repent and turn from doing what we know is wrong, we will be washed clean.
If not, well,
Romans 6:23 - For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Before I end this post today, I want to share a study on the book of Isaiah. In all honesty, it isn't my favorite, but it was a start. I still don't understand everything in Isaiah, and if you have a different study, I'd love to read it.
In the meantime, I hope you check out my recommendation by Vollie B. Sanders.
I also hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 5-8.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 207: Song of Solomon
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read the whole book of Song of Solomon: chapters 1-8.
And I have a confession. I don't understand this book at all. I mean, I understand that it's a song, sung by Solomon, his bride, and her attendants, and that it's romantic, because, of course, it's for a wedding. But other than that, I just don't really understand it.
I think it's meant to be taken literally: it's a song between Solomon and his Shulammite bride. But there are so many things in the Bible that can be taken other than literally.
So, does Song of Solomon also have hidden meaning for Christ and His bride? Or am I reading too much into it?
There were a few places where I thought I could draw parallels, and there are a few verses which people have used in songs about Christ and His bride, but I wonder if they were reading too much into it as well, even though the verses fit.
What do you think?
And is there a study on the Song of Solomon that you would recommend so that I can better understand this wonderfully written book?
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 1-4.
Today I read the whole book of Song of Solomon: chapters 1-8.
And I have a confession. I don't understand this book at all. I mean, I understand that it's a song, sung by Solomon, his bride, and her attendants, and that it's romantic, because, of course, it's for a wedding. But other than that, I just don't really understand it.
I think it's meant to be taken literally: it's a song between Solomon and his Shulammite bride. But there are so many things in the Bible that can be taken other than literally.
So, does Song of Solomon also have hidden meaning for Christ and His bride? Or am I reading too much into it?
There were a few places where I thought I could draw parallels, and there are a few verses which people have used in songs about Christ and His bride, but I wonder if they were reading too much into it as well, even though the verses fit.
What do you think?
And is there a study on the Song of Solomon that you would recommend so that I can better understand this wonderfully written book?
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Isaiah 1-4.
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 206: Keep God's Commandments
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Ecclesiastes 9-12, and I have to confess I didn't get a lot out of today's reading. Perhaps one day I'll have more to share about it, but for today I just want to share one thing.
First of all, a brief recap: the author of this book (probably Solomon) spends time in these chapters reminding us that life is fleeting and that we should enjoy it, but that we should be careful to make sure our actions please God. It is not wrong to have fun, but we must keep His commandments in mind. In the end, the wicked and the righteous both die, mortal lives expended.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 - The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I begin reading Song of Solomon.
Today I read Ecclesiastes 9-12, and I have to confess I didn't get a lot out of today's reading. Perhaps one day I'll have more to share about it, but for today I just want to share one thing.
First of all, a brief recap: the author of this book (probably Solomon) spends time in these chapters reminding us that life is fleeting and that we should enjoy it, but that we should be careful to make sure our actions please God. It is not wrong to have fun, but we must keep His commandments in mind. In the end, the wicked and the righteous both die, mortal lives expended.
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 - The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I begin reading Song of Solomon.
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 205: The Proverbs of Ecclesiastes
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Ecclesiastes 5-8, and they read a lot like some of the proverbs, so that's what I called this post. Now, I'd like to share some of my favorites with you.
Ecclesiastes 5: 2-3 - Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth, therefore let your words be few. For the dream comes through much effort and the voice of a fool through many words.
Ecclesiastes 5:4 - When you make a vow to God, do not be late in paying it; for He takes no delight in fools. Pay what you vow!
Ecclesiastes 5:10 - He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity.
Ecclesiastes 7:3 - Sorrow is better than laughter for when a face is sad a heart may be happy.
Ecclesiastes 7:5 - It is better to listen to the rebuke of a wise man than for one to listen to the song of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:10 - Do not say, "Why is it that the former days were better than these?" For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.
And I'll stop there. Some wise words here. Especially that last one. Sometimes we are tempted to say "I wish I lived back then" as though back then were better than when we are living now. Remember that each generation had its hardships and each time has its trials. We should not think thus.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 9-12.
Today I read Ecclesiastes 5-8, and they read a lot like some of the proverbs, so that's what I called this post. Now, I'd like to share some of my favorites with you.
Ecclesiastes 5: 2-3 - Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth, therefore let your words be few. For the dream comes through much effort and the voice of a fool through many words.
Ecclesiastes 5:4 - When you make a vow to God, do not be late in paying it; for He takes no delight in fools. Pay what you vow!
Ecclesiastes 5:10 - He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity.
Ecclesiastes 7:3 - Sorrow is better than laughter for when a face is sad a heart may be happy.
Ecclesiastes 7:5 - It is better to listen to the rebuke of a wise man than for one to listen to the song of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:10 - Do not say, "Why is it that the former days were better than these?" For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.
And I'll stop there. Some wise words here. Especially that last one. Sometimes we are tempted to say "I wish I lived back then" as though back then were better than when we are living now. Remember that each generation had its hardships and each time has its trials. We should not think thus.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 9-12.
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 204: A Time for Everything
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Ecclesiastes 1-4, but I won't go over everything. Today I want to focus on just a small part of these chapters. Ecclesiastes is one of my favorite books of the Bible, for exactly the verses I'm going to share with you now.
Ecclesiastes 1:9 - That which has been is that which will be, and that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun.
One generation can claim that "this has never been done before," or "no one has gone through what we're going through," but neither statement is true.
Everything that is, was, and everything that has been, will be again. Nothing that is happening is new. It has all happened before to previous generations.
In a way, I find this comforting. It's a reminder that there is nothing we can experience that God cannot help with. Just as He helped generations before us, He will help us, as He will help the generations after us.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven-a time to give birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; a time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh a time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; a time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; a time to be silent and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace.
There is an appointed time for everything, and a purpose for your season. Whatever season of life you are in, or whatever time you are in (whether it is waiting or moving) there is an appointed time for it. It begins and it ends, and you move into the next season.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 - He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.
Let me repeat: God has an appointed time for everything. Yet it is not for us to know His plans.
Ecclesiastes 3:14-15 - I know that everything God does will remain forever; there is nothing to add to it and there is nothing to take from it, for God has so worked that men should fear Him. That which is has been already, and that which will be has already been, for God seeks what has passed by.
All of God's works will remain eternally. And they need no changes.
I think that's all for today. I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 5-8.
Today I read Ecclesiastes 1-4, but I won't go over everything. Today I want to focus on just a small part of these chapters. Ecclesiastes is one of my favorite books of the Bible, for exactly the verses I'm going to share with you now.
Ecclesiastes 1:9 - That which has been is that which will be, and that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun.
One generation can claim that "this has never been done before," or "no one has gone through what we're going through," but neither statement is true.
Everything that is, was, and everything that has been, will be again. Nothing that is happening is new. It has all happened before to previous generations.
In a way, I find this comforting. It's a reminder that there is nothing we can experience that God cannot help with. Just as He helped generations before us, He will help us, as He will help the generations after us.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven-a time to give birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; a time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh a time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; a time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; a time to be silent and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace.
There is an appointed time for everything, and a purpose for your season. Whatever season of life you are in, or whatever time you are in (whether it is waiting or moving) there is an appointed time for it. It begins and it ends, and you move into the next season.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 - He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.
Let me repeat: God has an appointed time for everything. Yet it is not for us to know His plans.
Ecclesiastes 3:14-15 - I know that everything God does will remain forever; there is nothing to add to it and there is nothing to take from it, for God has so worked that men should fear Him. That which is has been already, and that which will be has already been, for God seeks what has passed by.
All of God's works will remain eternally. And they need no changes.
I think that's all for today. I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 5-8.
Monday, July 23, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 203: The Proverbs 31 Woman
Good afternoon everyone!
It's finally happening. Today I read Proverbs 30-31, and I finally get to talk about the Proverbs 31 woman.
Proverbs 31:10-31
An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.
A wife of excellent character is valued far above fine jewels. She gives her husband no reason to doubt her, and only does him good.
She looks for wool and flax and works with her hands in delight. She is like merchant ships; she brings her food from afar. She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household and portions to her maidens.
She takes care of her household and is not afraid of hard work.
She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She senses that her gain is good; her lamp does not go out at night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hands grasp the spindle.
She has her own money and invests it wisely. She knows when her investment is good. She has strength (physical and of character).
She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She helps those less fortunate than herself, with her time, money, and resources.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She makes coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Her household is well prepared for hard times. They are clothed richly and do not wear rags.
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.
Her husband is respected and well-known for his own deeds.
She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies belts to the tradesmen.
She contributes to the necessities of her household by selling supplies to the tradesmen.
Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Despite her fine clothing, strength and dignity are finer garments for her. She is not afraid of the future. She is wise, and the speaks with wisdom and is kind to everyone, teaching those around her to be kind as well.
She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.
She works hard and is not lazy.
Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying: "Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all."
Her husband praises her and her children bless her for her noble character.
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.Give her the product of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
A woman who fears the LORD, who respects His commandments, and serves Him is to be valued more than false charms or fake beauty. This woman's beauty is more than skin deep.
So, that's the Proverbs 31 woman. She doesn't seem so far away now, does she? An unattainable standard?
Because all of this is possible, for every one of us. When we put God first and obey His commandments, He will build this character in us. When we are mindful of our duties, and work hard (but don't exhaust ourselves) then we can provide well for our families and make sure they have everything they need. When we encourage our husbands and families, and even our friends, they can thrive and flourish. When we invest our money and our time wisely, we will always get a return on that investment.
So, my friends, do not look to the worldly standards of beauty, or focus on what the world says we should do. The perfect woman, according to God's standards, is outlined right here, and really, she's not so perfect as to be unattainable. She just works hard to do what is right.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 1-4!
It's finally happening. Today I read Proverbs 30-31, and I finally get to talk about the Proverbs 31 woman.
Proverbs 31:10-31
An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.
A wife of excellent character is valued far above fine jewels. She gives her husband no reason to doubt her, and only does him good.
She looks for wool and flax and works with her hands in delight. She is like merchant ships; she brings her food from afar. She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household and portions to her maidens.
She takes care of her household and is not afraid of hard work.
She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She senses that her gain is good; her lamp does not go out at night. She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hands grasp the spindle.
She has her own money and invests it wisely. She knows when her investment is good. She has strength (physical and of character).
She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She helps those less fortunate than herself, with her time, money, and resources.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She makes coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Her household is well prepared for hard times. They are clothed richly and do not wear rags.
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land.
Her husband is respected and well-known for his own deeds.
She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies belts to the tradesmen.
She contributes to the necessities of her household by selling supplies to the tradesmen.
Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Despite her fine clothing, strength and dignity are finer garments for her. She is not afraid of the future. She is wise, and the speaks with wisdom and is kind to everyone, teaching those around her to be kind as well.
She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.
She works hard and is not lazy.
Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying: "Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all."
Her husband praises her and her children bless her for her noble character.
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.Give her the product of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
A woman who fears the LORD, who respects His commandments, and serves Him is to be valued more than false charms or fake beauty. This woman's beauty is more than skin deep.
So, that's the Proverbs 31 woman. She doesn't seem so far away now, does she? An unattainable standard?
Because all of this is possible, for every one of us. When we put God first and obey His commandments, He will build this character in us. When we are mindful of our duties, and work hard (but don't exhaust ourselves) then we can provide well for our families and make sure they have everything they need. When we encourage our husbands and families, and even our friends, they can thrive and flourish. When we invest our money and our time wisely, we will always get a return on that investment.
So, my friends, do not look to the worldly standards of beauty, or focus on what the world says we should do. The perfect woman, according to God's standards, is outlined right here, and really, she's not so perfect as to be unattainable. She just works hard to do what is right.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Ecclesiastes 1-4!
Sunday, July 22, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 202: Whatever the Day May Bring
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 27-29, and I'll share a few that really stuck with me.
Proverbs 27:1 - Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
I don't think this means you can't talk about your plans, but boasting is never a good thing. Just remember that God may change things up, depending on His plan for your life.
Proverbs 28:5 - Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand all things.
The Lord gives understanding to those who seek Him.
Proverbs 28:13 - He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.
Confess. Forsake. Then we will find compassion and forgiveness for our transgressions.
Proverbs 29:11 - A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back.
Proverbs 29:23 - A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.
And one final one for my dear friend. You know who you are. And thank you.
Proverbs 27:9 - Oil and perfume make the heart glad, so a man's counsel is sweet to his friend.
Even when it's not what I want to hear, it's always what I need to hear, so thank you, my dear.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 30-31.
Today I read Proverbs 27-29, and I'll share a few that really stuck with me.
Proverbs 27:1 - Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
I don't think this means you can't talk about your plans, but boasting is never a good thing. Just remember that God may change things up, depending on His plan for your life.
Proverbs 28:5 - Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand all things.
The Lord gives understanding to those who seek Him.
Proverbs 28:13 - He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion.
Confess. Forsake. Then we will find compassion and forgiveness for our transgressions.
Proverbs 29:11 - A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back.
Proverbs 29:23 - A man's pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.
And one final one for my dear friend. You know who you are. And thank you.
Proverbs 27:9 - Oil and perfume make the heart glad, so a man's counsel is sweet to his friend.
Even when it's not what I want to hear, it's always what I need to hear, so thank you, my dear.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 30-31.
Saturday, July 21, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 201: Do Not Be Envious
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 24-26.
Proverbs 24:1-2 - Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them; for their minds devise violence, and their lips talk of trouble.
No matter how good their lives look, or how much wealth they have, we should not even want to be around such people.
Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles; or the LORD will see it and be displeased and turn His anger away from him.
A great example of this is David. Saul sought his life, and yet David did not wish him harm. When news of Saul's death reached him, David mourned.
We should not be happy when anyone falls, even our enemies.
Proverbs 24:28-29 - Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips. Do not say, "Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work."
Remember, judgment is left to God.
Proverbs 25:2 - It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings to search out a matter.
Now, I want to be honest. I don't completely understand this one. I've heard it in a song: It's the glory of God to hide, the glory of kings to seek and find.
But I still don't completely understand it.
I think it means that it is the nature of man to seek out answers to everything and to understand everything, and sometimes that can bring them glory, but it is God's pleasure to conceal certain things from us, all to His glory.
But I'm not sure I have that right. If any of you have a thought about it, or if you've had it explained to you, I'd love to hear your comments.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 27-29.
Today I read Proverbs 24-26.
Proverbs 24:1-2 - Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them; for their minds devise violence, and their lips talk of trouble.
No matter how good their lives look, or how much wealth they have, we should not even want to be around such people.
Proverbs 24:17-18 - Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles; or the LORD will see it and be displeased and turn His anger away from him.
A great example of this is David. Saul sought his life, and yet David did not wish him harm. When news of Saul's death reached him, David mourned.
We should not be happy when anyone falls, even our enemies.
Proverbs 24:28-29 - Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips. Do not say, "Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work."
Remember, judgment is left to God.
Proverbs 25:2 - It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings to search out a matter.
Now, I want to be honest. I don't completely understand this one. I've heard it in a song: It's the glory of God to hide, the glory of kings to seek and find.
But I still don't completely understand it.
I think it means that it is the nature of man to seek out answers to everything and to understand everything, and sometimes that can bring them glory, but it is God's pleasure to conceal certain things from us, all to His glory.
But I'm not sure I have that right. If any of you have a thought about it, or if you've had it explained to you, I'd love to hear your comments.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 27-29.
Friday, July 20, 2018
First Food Friday: Fried Cheese Melt
Hello everyone!
Today is the first ever "Food Friday" on my blog.
On Food Fridays, I'll be sharing delicious or interesting food with you. Most of the time, I will be sharing recipes that I enjoy and as I'm trying to fix my diet, most will be healthy. But sometimes, I want to share photos and descriptions of food that I eat at restaurants. These will either be delicious recommendations or interesting novelties.
For today's first Food Friday, I'll be talking about the Fried Cheese Melt from Denny's.
Never heard of it? Neither had I. It's on their online menu under the value section. It was not on the regular menus.
So, what is it? It's a grilled cheese sandwich. But wait. That's not all. Do you know what they put inside the grilled cheese sandwich? Mozzarella sticks.
That's right. You read that right. Crunchy, deep-fried mozzarella sticks lovingly placed inside two crisp slices of bread spread with gooey melted cheddar cheese and served with a rich tomato-based marinara sauce for dipping. For my side? Crispy seasoned french fries.
Does that sound good? It did to me. I enjoy grilled cheese and I love mozzarella sticks. I just love cheese, to be honest.
Well, if you're not sure if it sounds good, let me show you a picture.
Maybe you need another picture to really see it.
Does it look good now? No? Interesting at least?
I went into this with my eyes open. I went in thinking: these two foods may not go very well together. But I had to try it just once, even if I decided to never eat it again.
And when I placed my order, I also ordered orange juice, hoping the acidity would help with the overabundance of cheese. It did.
The mozzarella and the cheddar cheese went well together. The tomato-y marinara was delicious with both the sandwich and the cheese sticks. And the orange juice had just the right amount of acidity to check the dairy. The fries were good dipped in the marinara sauce too.
If you choose to order this I recommend drinking orange juice to help balance the flavors. I also recommend asking about the seasonal fruit instead of getting the french fries, which is what I intended to do before my stomach decided to speak before my brain.
As a result I ended up with too much breading in my meal. But you know what? I enjoyed it. Would I order it again? No. Would I recommend it? Yes. If you like cheese sticks and grilled cheese sandwiches, I recommend that you try the Fried Cheese Melt from Denny's. It's not on their regular menu, so you'll have to ask special.
If you eat this unique dish, please let me know how it goes. I'm interested to hear your thoughts about this hidden menu item.
Today is the first ever "Food Friday" on my blog.
On Food Fridays, I'll be sharing delicious or interesting food with you. Most of the time, I will be sharing recipes that I enjoy and as I'm trying to fix my diet, most will be healthy. But sometimes, I want to share photos and descriptions of food that I eat at restaurants. These will either be delicious recommendations or interesting novelties.
For today's first Food Friday, I'll be talking about the Fried Cheese Melt from Denny's.
Never heard of it? Neither had I. It's on their online menu under the value section. It was not on the regular menus.
So, what is it? It's a grilled cheese sandwich. But wait. That's not all. Do you know what they put inside the grilled cheese sandwich? Mozzarella sticks.
That's right. You read that right. Crunchy, deep-fried mozzarella sticks lovingly placed inside two crisp slices of bread spread with gooey melted cheddar cheese and served with a rich tomato-based marinara sauce for dipping. For my side? Crispy seasoned french fries.
Does that sound good? It did to me. I enjoy grilled cheese and I love mozzarella sticks. I just love cheese, to be honest.
Well, if you're not sure if it sounds good, let me show you a picture.
Does it look good now? No? Interesting at least?
I went into this with my eyes open. I went in thinking: these two foods may not go very well together. But I had to try it just once, even if I decided to never eat it again.
And when I placed my order, I also ordered orange juice, hoping the acidity would help with the overabundance of cheese. It did.
The mozzarella and the cheddar cheese went well together. The tomato-y marinara was delicious with both the sandwich and the cheese sticks. And the orange juice had just the right amount of acidity to check the dairy. The fries were good dipped in the marinara sauce too.
If you choose to order this I recommend drinking orange juice to help balance the flavors. I also recommend asking about the seasonal fruit instead of getting the french fries, which is what I intended to do before my stomach decided to speak before my brain.
As a result I ended up with too much breading in my meal. But you know what? I enjoyed it. Would I order it again? No. Would I recommend it? Yes. If you like cheese sticks and grilled cheese sandwiches, I recommend that you try the Fried Cheese Melt from Denny's. It's not on their regular menu, so you'll have to ask special.
If you eat this unique dish, please let me know how it goes. I'm interested to hear your thoughts about this hidden menu item.
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 200: Desire More Than Wealth
Good morning, everyone!
I'm more than halfway through my RBY challenge this year! Yay!
Today I read Proverbs 22-23. I won't go over all of it, but I do want to share a few verses today.
Proverbs 22:1 - A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, favor is better than silver and gold.
Wealth is fleeting, but a name of good reputation lasts. And the good opinion of God is to be desired more than anything.
Proverbs 22:4 - The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, honor, and life.
Now, we may not see the riches here on earth. God doesn't promise to make us rich in this life. He promises that we will always have what we need, and that whatever we ask within His will, He will do. But in our eternal life with Him, we will be wealthy, honorable, eternal citizens of God's kingdom.
Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart form it.
We should teach our children about God, His love, and His commandments while they are young. Then, when they are old, even if they appear to go astray for a time, they will remember God's word, and He will draw them back.
Proverbs 23:1-3 - When you sit down with a ruler, consider carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are a man of great appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for it is a deceptive food.
Now, I'm not entirely sure what Solomon meant by this, but I want to tell you what I got from it, particularly the last bit.
Just because someone is a ruler, just because they have great wealth, doesn't mean what they have is good in the eyes of God. So, do not covet what they have, for their riches are deceptive. Rather, we should desire the things of God, even if they don't make us rich and powerful in the eyes of the world. Desiring the things of the world can be dangerous to us. It can even cut us off from the life God desires to give us.
Proverbs 23:4-5 - Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings like an eagle that flies toward the heavens.
Now, this is not to say that we shouldn't work hard. But wealth should not be our main goal. If we work so hard in an effort to become wealthy that we neglect everything else - God, church, family, friends - then we are not doing what we are supposed to do.
In fact, I once read a book that put things in this order:
1. God
2. Family
3. Ministry
4. Everything else
God first. Family second (I include friends here too). Ministry third. Then everything else, work included.
Now, that's not to say that we should miss work. But we should be careful to get our priorities right. If your boss asks you to do something God wouldn't approve of, or your spouse would disagree with, you shouldn't do it; if work takes up time we should be devoting to God, family, or ministry, it's time to reevaluate priorities.
Okay. That's all for today. I hope you enjoyed today's post, just as I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 24-26.
I'm more than halfway through my RBY challenge this year! Yay!
Today I read Proverbs 22-23. I won't go over all of it, but I do want to share a few verses today.
Proverbs 22:1 - A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, favor is better than silver and gold.
Wealth is fleeting, but a name of good reputation lasts. And the good opinion of God is to be desired more than anything.
Proverbs 22:4 - The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, honor, and life.
Now, we may not see the riches here on earth. God doesn't promise to make us rich in this life. He promises that we will always have what we need, and that whatever we ask within His will, He will do. But in our eternal life with Him, we will be wealthy, honorable, eternal citizens of God's kingdom.
Proverbs 22:6 - Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart form it.
We should teach our children about God, His love, and His commandments while they are young. Then, when they are old, even if they appear to go astray for a time, they will remember God's word, and He will draw them back.
Proverbs 23:1-3 - When you sit down with a ruler, consider carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are a man of great appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for it is a deceptive food.
Now, I'm not entirely sure what Solomon meant by this, but I want to tell you what I got from it, particularly the last bit.
Just because someone is a ruler, just because they have great wealth, doesn't mean what they have is good in the eyes of God. So, do not covet what they have, for their riches are deceptive. Rather, we should desire the things of God, even if they don't make us rich and powerful in the eyes of the world. Desiring the things of the world can be dangerous to us. It can even cut us off from the life God desires to give us.
Proverbs 23:4-5 - Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings like an eagle that flies toward the heavens.
Now, this is not to say that we shouldn't work hard. But wealth should not be our main goal. If we work so hard in an effort to become wealthy that we neglect everything else - God, church, family, friends - then we are not doing what we are supposed to do.
In fact, I once read a book that put things in this order:
1. God
2. Family
3. Ministry
4. Everything else
God first. Family second (I include friends here too). Ministry third. Then everything else, work included.
Now, that's not to say that we should miss work. But we should be careful to get our priorities right. If your boss asks you to do something God wouldn't approve of, or your spouse would disagree with, you shouldn't do it; if work takes up time we should be devoting to God, family, or ministry, it's time to reevaluate priorities.
Okay. That's all for today. I hope you enjoyed today's post, just as I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 24-26.
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 199: Righteousness
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 19-21. I'll be sharing just a few of the proverbs that stood out to me.
Proverbs 19:8 - He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will find good.
Proverbs 19:15 - Laziness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle man will suffer hunger.
Proverbs 20:22 - Do not say, "I will repay evil"; wait for the LORD, and He will save you.
Proverbs 21:2 - Every man's way is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.
Proverbs 21:3 - To do righteousness and justice is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice.
Proverbs 21:23 - He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles.
Well, I barely scratched the surface with these, so please read the chapters yourself. If you have any thoughts on any of the proverbs I shared, or any I didn't, please leave a comment below.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 22-23.
Today I read Proverbs 19-21. I'll be sharing just a few of the proverbs that stood out to me.
Proverbs 19:8 - He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will find good.
Proverbs 19:15 - Laziness casts into a deep sleep, and an idle man will suffer hunger.
Proverbs 20:22 - Do not say, "I will repay evil"; wait for the LORD, and He will save you.
Proverbs 21:2 - Every man's way is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.
Proverbs 21:3 - To do righteousness and justice is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice.
Proverbs 21:23 - He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles.
Well, I barely scratched the surface with these, so please read the chapters yourself. If you have any thoughts on any of the proverbs I shared, or any I didn't, please leave a comment below.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 22-23.
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 198: The Ways of Man
Good morning, again, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 16-18, and I'm going to share just a few of the proverbs that really stood out to me today.
Proverbs 16:2 - All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the LORD weighs the motives.
We have to weigh our motives and actions against the Word of God, not our own understanding.
Proverbs 16:3 - Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.
Be careful not to misquote this one as others have done. Pride is before destruction, and a haughty spirit is before a fall. Not pride before a fall.
Proverbs 17:12 - Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly.
The proverbs talk a lot about foolish men, and they're all warnings. As Solomon was instructing his son through these proverbs, that makes sense, but we can take something from these too.
This one just made me smile.
Proverbs 17:17 - A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:22 - A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.
It's not always easy, but each day we should try to find joy. If there is none in our situation, we should try to remember that joy can always be found in the Lord.
Proverbs 18:10 - The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.
The name of the LORD is very powerful, and is protection for the righteous.
I hope you'll all join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 19-21.
Today I read Proverbs 16-18, and I'm going to share just a few of the proverbs that really stood out to me today.
Proverbs 16:2 - All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the LORD weighs the motives.
We have to weigh our motives and actions against the Word of God, not our own understanding.
Proverbs 16:3 - Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.
Be careful not to misquote this one as others have done. Pride is before destruction, and a haughty spirit is before a fall. Not pride before a fall.
Proverbs 17:12 - Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs rather than a fool in his folly.
The proverbs talk a lot about foolish men, and they're all warnings. As Solomon was instructing his son through these proverbs, that makes sense, but we can take something from these too.
This one just made me smile.
Proverbs 17:17 - A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Proverbs 17:22 - A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.
It's not always easy, but each day we should try to find joy. If there is none in our situation, we should try to remember that joy can always be found in the Lord.
Proverbs 18:10 - The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.
The name of the LORD is very powerful, and is protection for the righteous.
I hope you'll all join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 19-21.
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 197: Wise Men
Hello everyone!
I was so busy yesterday that I forgot to do my blog. Yikes! Lesson learned, dear readers. I'll do the blog first thing before anything else from now on.
So, yesterday I read Proverbs 13-15, and I want to share just a few of the wonderful proverbs in this reading.
Proverbs 13:12 - Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
This is very true. But our desires and hopes should focus on God and what He wants for our lives.
Proverbs 13:20 - He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Proverbs 13:22 - A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, ad the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.
I once heard a man say that if he got one million dollars, he would spend it and not leave it for his children. This is not a good thing.
Proverbs 14:12 - There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
Just because we believe something is right, doesn't make it so. We should check it against God's Word.
Proverbs 14:13 - Even in laughter the heart may be in pain, and the end of joy may be grief.
God doesn't promise we won't have hardship or that we will always be happy while we're on earth. But there will be more joy than we can imagine in Heaven, once we get there. Sometimes it's tough, but we need to trust God and hold on even though the sorrow. He is the greatest comforter. And He has a plan, even for the bad times.
Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.
If you remember the story of Joshua and the battle of Ai, the Israelites lost the battle because Achen sinned against God. One man brought about a great loss to his whole nation because of his sin. Sin brings bad things to a whole nation, even if just one person commits it.
Proverbs 15:1 - A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
I'm going to leave it with this one, even though there are many more I could discuss.
Later today, I'll discuss today's reading: Proverbs 16-18.
I was so busy yesterday that I forgot to do my blog. Yikes! Lesson learned, dear readers. I'll do the blog first thing before anything else from now on.
So, yesterday I read Proverbs 13-15, and I want to share just a few of the wonderful proverbs in this reading.
Proverbs 13:12 - Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
This is very true. But our desires and hopes should focus on God and what He wants for our lives.
Proverbs 13:20 - He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Proverbs 13:22 - A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, ad the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.
I once heard a man say that if he got one million dollars, he would spend it and not leave it for his children. This is not a good thing.
Proverbs 14:12 - There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
Just because we believe something is right, doesn't make it so. We should check it against God's Word.
Proverbs 14:13 - Even in laughter the heart may be in pain, and the end of joy may be grief.
God doesn't promise we won't have hardship or that we will always be happy while we're on earth. But there will be more joy than we can imagine in Heaven, once we get there. Sometimes it's tough, but we need to trust God and hold on even though the sorrow. He is the greatest comforter. And He has a plan, even for the bad times.
Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.
If you remember the story of Joshua and the battle of Ai, the Israelites lost the battle because Achen sinned against God. One man brought about a great loss to his whole nation because of his sin. Sin brings bad things to a whole nation, even if just one person commits it.
Proverbs 15:1 - A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
I'm going to leave it with this one, even though there are many more I could discuss.
Later today, I'll discuss today's reading: Proverbs 16-18.
Monday, July 16, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year Day 196: Righteousness vs. Wickedness
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 10-12, and today's reading contrasts the righteous and the wicked.
I'm going to share a few proverbs that really spoke to me. The proverbs are the only verses that can truly stand alone without needing the rest of the chapter (there are exceptions, of course, such as Proverb 31, which is a letter from a mother to her son about what he should look for in a wife).
Proverbs 11:15 - He who is a guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, but he who hates being a guarantor is secure.
This one stood out to me as exceptional wisdom. Do not co-sign on anything for someone you don't know well, or anyone you know won't repay the debt, because then you'll be stuck with it.
Proverbs 11:22 - As a ring of gold in a swine's snout so is a beautiful woman without discretion.
I really like this one. Take a moment to let the meaning sink in. Without discretion, a woman's beauty is as useless as a gold ring in a swine's nose.
Does that sound harsh? Perhaps. But it's also true. And this works both ways, I think. A man's attractiveness means nothing unless he, too, has discretion, and guards himself.
Proverbs 12:10 - A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel.
I don't think this one needs explanation...
Proverbs 12:22 - Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.
God delights in those who are honest and truthful.
I hope you enjoyed these proverbs today. There are so many more, and all of them are amazing. I wish I could share them all, and talk about them all, but that's not for this year. It would be interesting to study each proverb individually, but if I blogged about one proverb a day, I would be doing this for years.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 13-15.
Today I read Proverbs 10-12, and today's reading contrasts the righteous and the wicked.
I'm going to share a few proverbs that really spoke to me. The proverbs are the only verses that can truly stand alone without needing the rest of the chapter (there are exceptions, of course, such as Proverb 31, which is a letter from a mother to her son about what he should look for in a wife).
Proverbs 11:15 - He who is a guarantor for a stranger will surely suffer for it, but he who hates being a guarantor is secure.
This one stood out to me as exceptional wisdom. Do not co-sign on anything for someone you don't know well, or anyone you know won't repay the debt, because then you'll be stuck with it.
Proverbs 11:22 - As a ring of gold in a swine's snout so is a beautiful woman without discretion.
I really like this one. Take a moment to let the meaning sink in. Without discretion, a woman's beauty is as useless as a gold ring in a swine's nose.
Does that sound harsh? Perhaps. But it's also true. And this works both ways, I think. A man's attractiveness means nothing unless he, too, has discretion, and guards himself.
Proverbs 12:10 - A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel.
I don't think this one needs explanation...
Proverbs 12:22 - Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.
God delights in those who are honest and truthful.
I hope you enjoyed these proverbs today. There are so many more, and all of them are amazing. I wish I could share them all, and talk about them all, but that's not for this year. It would be interesting to study each proverb individually, but if I blogged about one proverb a day, I would be doing this for years.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 13-15.
Sunday, July 15, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 195: The Beginning of Wisdom
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 7-9, and today I just want to share Proverbs 9:10.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Those who reverence God are wise. Those who learn of Him gain understanding.
I want to always be in awe of Him. I want to continue learning of Him every day. I hope you do too.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 10-12.
Today I read Proverbs 7-9, and today I just want to share Proverbs 9:10.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Those who reverence God are wise. Those who learn of Him gain understanding.
I want to always be in awe of Him. I want to continue learning of Him every day. I hope you do too.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 10-12.
Saturday, July 14, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 194: Satan's Temptations
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Proverbs 4-6, and my focus today will be on part of Proverbs 6.
At the end, it talks about the punishment for one who commits adultery with a man's wife, and the repayment that is required.
Today, I'm not going to talk about this literally.
Because when I was reading it, I had the thought that it applied to how God views His people.
Sometimes Satan entices us away from God, entices us to sin. Commits adultery with us, if you will. And reading the punishment in this proverb, made me realize how much greater Satan's punishment will be for all those times he has done that to God's people.
Of course, he doesn't force us to sin, and it's our choice. But he is the tempter. So his punishment will be great.
Now, with that in mind, please read the verses I'm referencing.
Proverbs 6:29-35 - So is the one who goes in to his neighbor's wife; whoever touches her will not go unpunished. Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy himself when he is hungry; but when he is found, he must repay sevenfold; he must give all the substance of his house. The one who commits adultery with a woman is lacking sense; he who would destroy himself does it. Wounds and disgrace he will find, and his reproach will not be blotted out. For jealousy enrages a man, and he will not spare in the day of vengeance. He will not accept any ransom, nor will he be satisfied though you give many gifts.
We are the bride of Christ. He is jealous for us (like the song). When we choose to serve Him, He wants all of us. He doesn't want us to turn our heads at Satan's temptations and thus commit adultery - in our hearts or otherwise.
When we commit ourselves to God, we are saying that we will learn of Him and be faithful to Him. And we already know that He is faithful, and so will He continue to be. We are the ones who fall short because of sin.
So, these verses made me think. We mess up sometimes. The temptation is never greater than we can stand - if we want to. Sometimes we don't want to stand firm against it. But when that happens, we repent, and God forgives us. Satan, however, will never repent. He will continue trying and tempting God's people, Christ's bride. He will never repent of it, because he doesn't want to. And in the end no ransom he could pay, no gift he could give will ever be enough. His punishment for tempting God's people will be great.
That's what I got out of today's reading. Too far-fetched? Spot on? Let me know in the comments.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 7-9.
Today I read Proverbs 4-6, and my focus today will be on part of Proverbs 6.
At the end, it talks about the punishment for one who commits adultery with a man's wife, and the repayment that is required.
Today, I'm not going to talk about this literally.
Because when I was reading it, I had the thought that it applied to how God views His people.
Sometimes Satan entices us away from God, entices us to sin. Commits adultery with us, if you will. And reading the punishment in this proverb, made me realize how much greater Satan's punishment will be for all those times he has done that to God's people.
Of course, he doesn't force us to sin, and it's our choice. But he is the tempter. So his punishment will be great.
Now, with that in mind, please read the verses I'm referencing.
Proverbs 6:29-35 - So is the one who goes in to his neighbor's wife; whoever touches her will not go unpunished. Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy himself when he is hungry; but when he is found, he must repay sevenfold; he must give all the substance of his house. The one who commits adultery with a woman is lacking sense; he who would destroy himself does it. Wounds and disgrace he will find, and his reproach will not be blotted out. For jealousy enrages a man, and he will not spare in the day of vengeance. He will not accept any ransom, nor will he be satisfied though you give many gifts.
We are the bride of Christ. He is jealous for us (like the song). When we choose to serve Him, He wants all of us. He doesn't want us to turn our heads at Satan's temptations and thus commit adultery - in our hearts or otherwise.
When we commit ourselves to God, we are saying that we will learn of Him and be faithful to Him. And we already know that He is faithful, and so will He continue to be. We are the ones who fall short because of sin.
So, these verses made me think. We mess up sometimes. The temptation is never greater than we can stand - if we want to. Sometimes we don't want to stand firm against it. But when that happens, we repent, and God forgives us. Satan, however, will never repent. He will continue trying and tempting God's people, Christ's bride. He will never repent of it, because he doesn't want to. And in the end no ransom he could pay, no gift he could give will ever be enough. His punishment for tempting God's people will be great.
That's what I got out of today's reading. Too far-fetched? Spot on? Let me know in the comments.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 7-9.
Friday, July 13, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 193: Solomon's Proverbs
Good morning everyone!
Our power went out yesterday and was out until the electric people came by to put in a new transformer this morning at 2:30 am. You read that right. 2:30 am. I don't mind the lack of sleep so much, since we now have AC in the middle of the hot summer. I managed to get almost enough sleep, but I'm still a little tired, so I hope this post makes sense.
Today I read Proverbs 1-3, and to get us started, I want to share just one verse with you today.
Proverbs 1:7 - The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
These will be recurring themes throughout the book of Proverbs, so I wanted to start there. Solomon talks a lot about wisdom in connection with God, and he has some interesting things to say about foolish people.
One thing to remember as we go through the proverbs is this: a person can be wise in the ways of the world, and be completely unwise in the ways of God. We will be focusing on the ways of God.
I learn a lot every time I read his proverbs, and I look forward to sharing what I learn with all of you this time!
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 4-6.
Our power went out yesterday and was out until the electric people came by to put in a new transformer this morning at 2:30 am. You read that right. 2:30 am. I don't mind the lack of sleep so much, since we now have AC in the middle of the hot summer. I managed to get almost enough sleep, but I'm still a little tired, so I hope this post makes sense.
Today I read Proverbs 1-3, and to get us started, I want to share just one verse with you today.
Proverbs 1:7 - The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
These will be recurring themes throughout the book of Proverbs, so I wanted to start there. Solomon talks a lot about wisdom in connection with God, and he has some interesting things to say about foolish people.
One thing to remember as we go through the proverbs is this: a person can be wise in the ways of the world, and be completely unwise in the ways of God. We will be focusing on the ways of God.
I learn a lot every time I read his proverbs, and I look forward to sharing what I learn with all of you this time!
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 4-6.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year Day 192: Let Everything Praise God
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 146-150, and my focus will be on Psalm 150, with a little of 148 thrown in.
Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty expanse. Praise Him for His mighty deeds; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with timbrel and dancing; Praise Him with stringed instruments and pipe. Praise Him with loud cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!
So, that's Psalm 150. Isn't that nice? Praise God with everything you have. With your words. With your music. With dancing. Praise Him for all that He has done. For all that He is. Let your very breath praise God.
When I read this psalm today, I knew I had to share it, but originally I had planned to share part of Psalm 148, another psalm of praise.
This psalm, however, calls upon all of creation - from the smallest insect to the mightiest king, from the waves to the fires, from the winds to the mountains - to praise God. It calls upon every one of God's creations to praise Him.
Psalm 148:13 - Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.
Let everything praise the Lord. Everything with breath. Everything without breath. Let it testify to God's glory.
Do you know the song My Redeemer Lives, by Nicole C. Mullen?
Part of it says "Let all of creation testify." And that's what these psalms are saying. Let everything on the earth and in the heavens testify and praise God for how wonderful He is.
How powerful is that? The very mountains. The seas. The animals. All of creation glorifies God. Humans are the only part of creation that sometimes choose not to do so.
I hope you choose to praise Him. There are days when that isn't easy, when everything is going wrong. But I've learned that praising God doesn't depend on our circumstances. He's worthy of praise whether we have a good day or a bad day. Therefore, praise isn't a feeling, but a choice. And I'm learning to choose praise over my circumstances.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 1-3. Oh, we're going to have such fun in the book of Proverbs!
Today I read Psalms 146-150, and my focus will be on Psalm 150, with a little of 148 thrown in.
Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty expanse. Praise Him for His mighty deeds; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness. Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with timbrel and dancing; Praise Him with stringed instruments and pipe. Praise Him with loud cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!
So, that's Psalm 150. Isn't that nice? Praise God with everything you have. With your words. With your music. With dancing. Praise Him for all that He has done. For all that He is. Let your very breath praise God.
When I read this psalm today, I knew I had to share it, but originally I had planned to share part of Psalm 148, another psalm of praise.
This psalm, however, calls upon all of creation - from the smallest insect to the mightiest king, from the waves to the fires, from the winds to the mountains - to praise God. It calls upon every one of God's creations to praise Him.
Psalm 148:13 - Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.
Let everything praise the Lord. Everything with breath. Everything without breath. Let it testify to God's glory.
Do you know the song My Redeemer Lives, by Nicole C. Mullen?
Part of it says "Let all of creation testify." And that's what these psalms are saying. Let everything on the earth and in the heavens testify and praise God for how wonderful He is.
How powerful is that? The very mountains. The seas. The animals. All of creation glorifies God. Humans are the only part of creation that sometimes choose not to do so.
I hope you choose to praise Him. There are days when that isn't easy, when everything is going wrong. But I've learned that praising God doesn't depend on our circumstances. He's worthy of praise whether we have a good day or a bad day. Therefore, praise isn't a feeling, but a choice. And I'm learning to choose praise over my circumstances.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Proverbs 1-3. Oh, we're going to have such fun in the book of Proverbs!
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 191: God's Works
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 140-145, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 145, specifically verses 1-10.
I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. Men shall speak of the power of Your awesome acts, and I will tell of Your greatness. They shall eagerly utter the memory of Your abundant goodness and will shout joyfully of Your righteousness. The LORD is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The LORD is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works. All Your works shall give thanks to You, O LORD, and Your godly ones shall bless You.
I think I'll just leave this one here to speak for itself.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 146-150.
Today I read Psalms 140-145, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 145, specifically verses 1-10.
I will extol You, my God, O King, and I will bless Your name forever and ever. Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate. Men shall speak of the power of Your awesome acts, and I will tell of Your greatness. They shall eagerly utter the memory of Your abundant goodness and will shout joyfully of Your righteousness. The LORD is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The LORD is good to all, and His mercies are over all His works. All Your works shall give thanks to You, O LORD, and Your godly ones shall bless You.
I think I'll just leave this one here to speak for itself.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 146-150.
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 190: God Knows Us
Good evening, everyone!
Wow. It's late! I can't believe it took me so long to get to my post today. So, without further ado, here we go.
Today I read Psalms 133-139, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 139, specifically verses 1-7.
O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my though from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, behold, O LORD, You know it all. You have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?
How wonderful to know that there is nowhere we can go that is beyond God's reach, and nowhere to be separated from His presence.
Even before we speak, He knows what we will say. Before we form a thought, He knows it.
He has searched us thoroughly, and knows us more intimately than anyone ever can or will. He literally knows everything. And He still loves us.
He knows when we will have bad days, and when our days will be good. He knows our thoughts, words, actions, and plans before we ever form them.
I'm so glad that He knows us so well, and that His grace is sufficient for all our human slip-ups.
Because He knows us so well, we can always trust in Him.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 140-145.
Wow. It's late! I can't believe it took me so long to get to my post today. So, without further ado, here we go.
Today I read Psalms 133-139, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 139, specifically verses 1-7.
O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my though from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, behold, O LORD, You know it all. You have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?
How wonderful to know that there is nowhere we can go that is beyond God's reach, and nowhere to be separated from His presence.
Even before we speak, He knows what we will say. Before we form a thought, He knows it.
He has searched us thoroughly, and knows us more intimately than anyone ever can or will. He literally knows everything. And He still loves us.
He knows when we will have bad days, and when our days will be good. He knows our thoughts, words, actions, and plans before we ever form them.
I'm so glad that He knows us so well, and that His grace is sufficient for all our human slip-ups.
Because He knows us so well, we can always trust in Him.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 140-145.
Monday, July 9, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 189: The Lord is Our Keeper
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 120-132, but I'll focus on Psalm 121.
I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever.
The Lord is our keeper. Our help comes from Him. He will protect us, and guard us. He will guide us. He never sleeps, gets sick, or needs rest. He is always with us, always nearby in times of trouble. He holds our lives and our souls. He guards us forevermore.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 133-139.
Today I read Psalms 120-132, but I'll focus on Psalm 121.
I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever.
The Lord is our keeper. Our help comes from Him. He will protect us, and guard us. He will guide us. He never sleeps, gets sick, or needs rest. He is always with us, always nearby in times of trouble. He holds our lives and our souls. He guards us forevermore.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 133-139.
Sunday, July 8, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 188: Wisdom
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalm 119:89-176.
And I want to focus on just a couple verses today.
Psalm 119:89-91 - Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness continues throughout all generations; You established the earth, and it stands. They stand this day according to Your ordinances, for all things are Your servants.
God is eternal. His Word is established. His faithfulness is forever.
Psalm 119:99-100 - I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, because I have observed Your precepts.
From God's word, we gain wisdom. When we study His laws and keep them in our hearts, we have more wisdom than even our teachers.
And age is no indicator of wisdom. A young person who knows God's word has more wisdom than an older person who does not.
I find this to be very interesting.
There's a saying that's been going on for a while. "Common sense isn't very common anymore."
But what is common sense but wisdom?
True wisdom comes from God. And if you want to be truly wise, study His word and His laws, learn them, and remember them.
The world may not consider knowledge of God's Word to be "intelligence," but that's not what we're going for. We want God's wisdom, which is priceless.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 120-132.
Today I read Psalm 119:89-176.
And I want to focus on just a couple verses today.
Psalm 119:89-91 - Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness continues throughout all generations; You established the earth, and it stands. They stand this day according to Your ordinances, for all things are Your servants.
God is eternal. His Word is established. His faithfulness is forever.
Psalm 119:99-100 - I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the aged, because I have observed Your precepts.
From God's word, we gain wisdom. When we study His laws and keep them in our hearts, we have more wisdom than even our teachers.
And age is no indicator of wisdom. A young person who knows God's word has more wisdom than an older person who does not.
I find this to be very interesting.
There's a saying that's been going on for a while. "Common sense isn't very common anymore."
But what is common sense but wisdom?
True wisdom comes from God. And if you want to be truly wise, study His word and His laws, learn them, and remember them.
The world may not consider knowledge of God's Word to be "intelligence," but that's not what we're going for. We want God's wisdom, which is priceless.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 120-132.
Saturday, July 7, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 187: God's Commandments
Hello everyone!
Today I read Psalm 119:1-88. The topic of this psalm is "meditations and prayers relating to the law of the Lord." The author of this psalm is unknown, but it appears to be sung by different people. Remember the psalms are songs, and I'm sure that sung in the original Hebrew, they are absolutely beautiful.
According to some research that I did, King David used this psalm to teach Solomon about God's laws. I don't know if this suggests that the psalm existed before David, or if he wrote it.
There is a lot to this psalm, and I don't know if I can choose just one part, but I want to mention a common theme throughout the psalm, that is repeated for each of the singers: keeping God's commandments.
V.1-2 - How blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart.
V.9 - How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word.
V.11 - Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.
V.17-18 - Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law.
V.27 - Make me understand the way of Your precepts, so I will meditate on Your wonders.
V.33-34 - Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, and I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law and keep it with all my heart.
V.47 - I shall delight in Your commandments, which I love.
V.59-60 - I considered my ways and turned my feet to Your testimonies. I hastened and did not delay to keep Your commandments.
V.65-66 - You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word. Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments.
I know it's a long psalm, but I encourage you to read all of it for yourself.
The whole theme is a prayer to God that He teach us His commandments so that we may walk in His ways, something which delights us (or should).
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalm 119:89-176.
Today I read Psalm 119:1-88. The topic of this psalm is "meditations and prayers relating to the law of the Lord." The author of this psalm is unknown, but it appears to be sung by different people. Remember the psalms are songs, and I'm sure that sung in the original Hebrew, they are absolutely beautiful.
According to some research that I did, King David used this psalm to teach Solomon about God's laws. I don't know if this suggests that the psalm existed before David, or if he wrote it.
There is a lot to this psalm, and I don't know if I can choose just one part, but I want to mention a common theme throughout the psalm, that is repeated for each of the singers: keeping God's commandments.
V.1-2 - How blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart.
V.9 - How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word.
V.11 - Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.
V.17-18 - Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law.
V.27 - Make me understand the way of Your precepts, so I will meditate on Your wonders.
V.33-34 - Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, and I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law and keep it with all my heart.
V.47 - I shall delight in Your commandments, which I love.
V.59-60 - I considered my ways and turned my feet to Your testimonies. I hastened and did not delay to keep Your commandments.
V.65-66 - You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word. Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments.
I know it's a long psalm, but I encourage you to read all of it for yourself.
The whole theme is a prayer to God that He teach us His commandments so that we may walk in His ways, something which delights us (or should).
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalm 119:89-176.
Friday, July 6, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 186: A Psalm of Praise
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 115-118, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 117, which, as I mentioned yesterday, is my favorite psalm! Ever.
Not only because it's short, okay.
Praise the LORD, all nations; laud Him, all peoples! For His lovingkindness is great toward us, and the truth of the LORD is everlasting. Praise the LORD!
That's it. That's the whole psalm. Short, sweet, and right to the point.
Praise and laud the Lord, all nations and peoples.
I'll save you having to look up laud like I did. It means to praise or to extol. Now, I really like the word extol (yes, I'm a word nerd). The word extol, and thus the word laud, if we go a bit deeper into the meaning, means to "praise highly" or "glorify." One definition even says to "praise publicly." So, what the psalmist is really saying is that all peoples should glorify God and praise Him loudly and publicly.
God's lovingkindness is great, and He is merciful to us.
His truth lasts forever.
So we should always praise Him.
It's such a short psalm, but look at everything it said, and how highly it extolled God in so few words.
Sometimes that's all it takes. Just a few words. Sometimes it may take more words, but not always. I think what matters is what we say to and about God, not necessarily how long it takes us to say it.
And that's my favorite psalm. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I always do.
I also hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalm 119:1-88. It's going to be a long one, so we'll be on it for a couple days.
Today I read Psalms 115-118, and I'll be focusing on Psalm 117, which, as I mentioned yesterday, is my favorite psalm! Ever.
Not only because it's short, okay.
Praise the LORD, all nations; laud Him, all peoples! For His lovingkindness is great toward us, and the truth of the LORD is everlasting. Praise the LORD!
That's it. That's the whole psalm. Short, sweet, and right to the point.
Praise and laud the Lord, all nations and peoples.
I'll save you having to look up laud like I did. It means to praise or to extol. Now, I really like the word extol (yes, I'm a word nerd). The word extol, and thus the word laud, if we go a bit deeper into the meaning, means to "praise highly" or "glorify." One definition even says to "praise publicly." So, what the psalmist is really saying is that all peoples should glorify God and praise Him loudly and publicly.
God's lovingkindness is great, and He is merciful to us.
His truth lasts forever.
So we should always praise Him.
It's such a short psalm, but look at everything it said, and how highly it extolled God in so few words.
Sometimes that's all it takes. Just a few words. Sometimes it may take more words, but not always. I think what matters is what we say to and about God, not necessarily how long it takes us to say it.
And that's my favorite psalm. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I always do.
I also hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalm 119:1-88. It's going to be a long one, so we'll be on it for a couple days.
Thursday, July 5, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 185: Awaken the Dawn
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 108-114, but I'll focus on Psalm 108, particularly verses 1-6.
My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing, I will sing praises, even with my soul. Awake, harp and lyre; I will awaken the dawn! I will give thanks to You, O LORD, among the peoples, and I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your lovingkindness is great above the heavens, and Your truth reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and Your glory above all the earth, that Your beloved may be delivered, save with Your right hand, and answer me!
Can you hear David's enthusiasm as he praises God?
First, he declares that his heart is steadfast. It is immovable. Even his soul will sing to God the praises He is due.
And then David goes on to declare that he will awaken the dawn with his singing.
Doesn't that sound wonderful? Such poetry. I'm pretty sure he's just talking about praising all night until the dawn comes, but let's suspend that for a moment and think about this with our imagination.
David sings praises to God so loudly that the dawn breaks, and the sun comes up. Now, when the sun comes up, what else begins to sing? The birds.
So, David is singing with harp and lyre, raising his voice to God, and then the dawn breaks, and the birds begin singing with him.
Wouldn't that be a beautiful chorus?
Now, what if we started the day that way? I'm not saying you have to be up at dawn (for all those who are not morning people) but what if we all greeted the new day with a song to God? Even in our very souls. No grumbling. No more "where's my coffee" or "get me caffeine and get out of my way" attitudes, but just a joyful song to God.
Wouldn't that be an amazing start to the day?
Now, I'm not saying you can't have caffeine. I know some of you need it to get going. But what if we all started praising God before our caffeine fix?
Wow. Wouldn't that be something? Wouldn't that really put a dent in Satan's plans? "I don't need caffeine to be awake enough to praise God. My soul even does it while I'm sleeping."
Wouldn't that be an amazing way to live?
So, this is my challenge beginning this week: awaken the dawn with your praises. Begin praising God before your caffeine.
I'm going to join the challenge, so you won't be alone.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 115-118, and introduce you to my personal favorite Psalm.
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 184: Remember Me, O Lord
Good afternoon, everyone! And Happy Independence Day, America! I
love tea, and I love England, but I’m glad we’re our own nation now, even
though we are not, and have never been, perfect.
Only God is perfect. Speaking of…
Today I read Psalms 106-107, but I'll focus on part of Psalm 106, namely verses 1-5.
Praise the LORD! Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; for His lovingkindness is everlasting. Who can speak of the mighty deeds of the LORD, or can show forth all His praise? How blessed are those who keep justice, who practice righteousness at all times! Remember me, O LORD, in Your favor toward Your people; visit me with Your salvation, that I may see the prosperity of Your chosen ones, that I may rejoice in the gladness of Your nation, that I may glory with Your inheritance.
This psalm begins cheerfully. "Praise the Lord, and give thanks!" "He is good." "His mercy lasts forever."
It continues to praise God, and then entreats God to remember the writer. However, I want to point out what I noticed here. The writer does not ask for selfish things. The writer asks for that God remember them so that the writer may see God's salvation, favor, and prosperity among all His people.
Isn't that an amazing prayer? Remember me, O God so that I can see the salvation of Your chosen ones, the prosperity of Your people.
This is like a three-in-one prayer. The writer asks God to remember them, but in the same sentences asks for God to bring salvation to His people, and then to bless them.
What a great thing to ask of God.
I admit, sometimes my prayers can be selfish, but I'm trying to be more conscious of what I say.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 108-114.
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 183: Bless the Lord
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 103-105, but I'll focus on part of Psalm 103: verses 1-5, and 13-14.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. And remember all that He has done for me.
That should be my song every morning, but far too often, it isn't. Just this morning, in fact, my song was anger, and indignation, and whining. There are so many things I don't understand. It seems my wait has been going on for so long. And sometimes that makes me more upset than it should.
I'm still learning. And this psalm today was a good reminder of how I should begin my day: Bless the Lord, O my soul.
Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust.
But God is mindful of us. He is a loving Father, who knows that we are only dust, that we are weak. And He is compassionate and merciful to those who reverence Him.
That's how I want to begin every day. By reverencing God. From the first moment I wake up, I want my first thought to be "Bless the Lord, O my soul."
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 106-107.
Today I read Psalms 103-105, but I'll focus on part of Psalm 103: verses 1-5, and 13-14.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. And remember all that He has done for me.
That should be my song every morning, but far too often, it isn't. Just this morning, in fact, my song was anger, and indignation, and whining. There are so many things I don't understand. It seems my wait has been going on for so long. And sometimes that makes me more upset than it should.
I'm still learning. And this psalm today was a good reminder of how I should begin my day: Bless the Lord, O my soul.
Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust.
But God is mindful of us. He is a loving Father, who knows that we are only dust, that we are weak. And He is compassionate and merciful to those who reverence Him.
That's how I want to begin every day. By reverencing God. From the first moment I wake up, I want my first thought to be "Bless the Lord, O my soul."
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 106-107.
Monday, July 2, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 182: Sing to the Lord
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 96-102, but I'll focus on Psalm 96.
I'm mostly going to share the psalm today, rather than breaking it down or talking too much about it, because I believe this one is self-explanatory.
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before Him, strength and beauty are in His sanctuary. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory of His name; bring an offering and come into His courts. Worship the LORD in holy attire; tremble before Him, all the earth. Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns; indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity." Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all it contains; let the field exult, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the LORD, for He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in His faithfulness.
We should sing to God a new song every day, because of His glory and His faithfulness. Every day, He gives us a new song, a new reason to be glad. Each new day brings hope and promise.
We should tell of His deeds to all the nations, and give Him all the honor He is due.
Well, as I said earlier, I think this one speaks for itself, so I won't bore you by repeating what has already been said today. If you have any questions or thoughts, please leave a comment below.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 103-105.
Today I read Psalms 96-102, but I'll focus on Psalm 96.
I'm mostly going to share the psalm today, rather than breaking it down or talking too much about it, because I believe this one is self-explanatory.
Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before Him, strength and beauty are in His sanctuary. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory of His name; bring an offering and come into His courts. Worship the LORD in holy attire; tremble before Him, all the earth. Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns; indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity." Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all it contains; let the field exult, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy before the LORD, for He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in His faithfulness.
We should sing to God a new song every day, because of His glory and His faithfulness. Every day, He gives us a new song, a new reason to be glad. Each new day brings hope and promise.
We should tell of His deeds to all the nations, and give Him all the honor He is due.
Well, as I said earlier, I think this one speaks for itself, so I won't bore you by repeating what has already been said today. If you have any questions or thoughts, please leave a comment below.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 103-105.
Sunday, July 1, 2018
Read Through the Bible in a Year 2018 Day 181: The Shelter of His Wings
Good morning, everyone!
Today I read Psalms 90-95, and my focus will be on Psalm 91. Before Psalm 90, my Bible says it is a prayer of Moses. There are no other indications of author, so I believe the entire reading today is Moses' prayer.
So, Psalm 91 says:
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!" For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a bulwark.
I love how this compares God to a great bird, who shelters its children under its wings. When we dwell in God's shelter, we are also in His shadow.
Take a minute to imagine that. When you stand in the shadow of something, and if it covers you completely, it's usually bigger than you, isn't it? It's between you and the sun's rays, sheltering you from them for a time, often giving relief from the heat. Just picture standing in God's shadow where you are protected.
You will not be afraid of the terror by night, or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at your right hand, but it shall not approach you. You will only look on with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.
There is no need to fear when God is our refuge.
For you have made the LORD, my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place. No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and cobra, the young lion and the serpent you will trample down.
Now, there are a few things I want to discuss in this part.
First, a lot of people use the "He will give His angels charge concerning you" verse, sometimes incorrectly. What I want to point out is the part before it and after it, which is how one should read any verse. They aren't meant to stand alone, though sometimes they can without the meaning changing at all.
But the verse before this one mentions making God our dwelling place, our refuge. Then He will send His angels to protect us and guard our steps.
To me, this is really important. If we are not even trying to serve God, or if we have not trusted Him with our lives and committed our ways to Him, He will not act on our behalf. Or rather, our choices won't allow Him to. Remember we have free will. He may protect us from harm, and He will speak to our spirits so that He may draw us back to Him, but He will not bless actions that do not glorify Him.
So, be careful to use this verse correctly. God does send His angels to protect and guard His people, and just because we stray doesn't mean He stops. But if we continually disregard Him, He will allow our choices to stand.
Oh, and I have heard of some Christian denominations who take the snake thing literally and use them in services to prove how protected they are. Don't do that. We are not meant to showcase our power, but God's glory.
In addition, the Bible says not to tempt or test God. And to me that seems to be what that practice is doing.
What that verse actually means is that God will protect us from things that harm us. It's using symbolism. A lion that would devour us or a serpent that would poison us (as Satan tries to do to our minds).
"Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation."
God takes care of those who love Him. He rewards those who serve Him. Did you catch what He promised here?
To those who love God, He promised: security, elevation, deliverance, help, rescue, honor, long live, and His salvation.
That sounds wonderful to me.
God is always with those who love Him. He will always protect us and help us when we ask.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 96-102.
Today I read Psalms 90-95, and my focus will be on Psalm 91. Before Psalm 90, my Bible says it is a prayer of Moses. There are no other indications of author, so I believe the entire reading today is Moses' prayer.
So, Psalm 91 says:
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!" For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a bulwark.
I love how this compares God to a great bird, who shelters its children under its wings. When we dwell in God's shelter, we are also in His shadow.
Take a minute to imagine that. When you stand in the shadow of something, and if it covers you completely, it's usually bigger than you, isn't it? It's between you and the sun's rays, sheltering you from them for a time, often giving relief from the heat. Just picture standing in God's shadow where you are protected.
You will not be afraid of the terror by night, or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. A thousand may fall at your right hand, but it shall not approach you. You will only look on with your eyes and see the recompense of the wicked.
There is no need to fear when God is our refuge.
For you have made the LORD, my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place. No evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent. For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, that you do not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and cobra, the young lion and the serpent you will trample down.
Now, there are a few things I want to discuss in this part.
First, a lot of people use the "He will give His angels charge concerning you" verse, sometimes incorrectly. What I want to point out is the part before it and after it, which is how one should read any verse. They aren't meant to stand alone, though sometimes they can without the meaning changing at all.
But the verse before this one mentions making God our dwelling place, our refuge. Then He will send His angels to protect us and guard our steps.
To me, this is really important. If we are not even trying to serve God, or if we have not trusted Him with our lives and committed our ways to Him, He will not act on our behalf. Or rather, our choices won't allow Him to. Remember we have free will. He may protect us from harm, and He will speak to our spirits so that He may draw us back to Him, but He will not bless actions that do not glorify Him.
So, be careful to use this verse correctly. God does send His angels to protect and guard His people, and just because we stray doesn't mean He stops. But if we continually disregard Him, He will allow our choices to stand.
Oh, and I have heard of some Christian denominations who take the snake thing literally and use them in services to prove how protected they are. Don't do that. We are not meant to showcase our power, but God's glory.
In addition, the Bible says not to tempt or test God. And to me that seems to be what that practice is doing.
What that verse actually means is that God will protect us from things that harm us. It's using symbolism. A lion that would devour us or a serpent that would poison us (as Satan tries to do to our minds).
"Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation."
God takes care of those who love Him. He rewards those who serve Him. Did you catch what He promised here?
To those who love God, He promised: security, elevation, deliverance, help, rescue, honor, long live, and His salvation.
That sounds wonderful to me.
God is always with those who love Him. He will always protect us and help us when we ask.
I hope you'll join me tomorrow when I read Psalms 96-102.
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