Bible Study
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We are all familiar with the account of God denying Moses entry into the Promised Land. Though Moses himself was not permitted to enter, God allowed him to view it from a distance—a testament to His faithfulness in always fulfilling His promises to His people. Yet at times, it is we who forfeit the blessings God has prepared for us, choosing our own way over closeness with Him. Moses remained faithful throughout all of God’s house. Still, without fully understanding God’s reasoning, some believers grow fearful of Him and keep their distance to avoid a similar fate. In doing so,…
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Writing to a mixed audience of believers in Rome, comprising both Gentiles and Jews, Paul addresses the claim the Jews had long made: that their adherence to the Law of Moses guaranteed them access to God. However, with the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, the Gentiles, who were never actively pursuing righteousness, obtained it through faith. Israel spent generations pursuing righteousness through the law but failed to attain it because they sought it through works rather than faith. The tragedy was not that they lacked dedication, but that they were looking in the wrong direction. What then shall we…
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Bildad was the second of Job’s three friends to speak, coming forward right after Job answered Eliphaz. If Eliphaz was the gentle opening argument, Bildad is the one who tightens the screws. He appears to be younger than Job, someone who has waited through the seven days of silent mourning and has now heard enough of Job’s protest to feel he must correct him. How long will you say such things? Your words are a blustering wind. Does God pervert justice? Does the Almighty pervert what is right? Job 8:2-3 (NIV) For Bildad, there is no mystery here. If Job’s…
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Why do we face one problem after another when we love God and believe in Him? The answer begins with how we were first taught to hold the truth. If a student is given a mathematics problem from his textbook, with the answer printed on the last page and he looks at the answer first and works backwards without following the steps, he arrives at it easily enough — but that shortcut does not last. The moment he faces a real exam or takes up work where no answer is printed anywhere, it is the steps he needs, not the…
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Paul expresses his anguish and pain for his own people, the chosen race, the seed of Abraham, who cannot perceive that the culmination of every promise of God is found in Christ. As a Pharisee, he grew up immersed in the teachings of the law, which were his bread and butter; day in and day out, he analyzed the laws and relied on their adherence to ensure safe passage into God’s kingdom. But now, he feels ousted from his own community for the sake of the Good News he discovered on the road to Damascus when he finally met the…
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After Eliphaz finishes laying out his accusations, Job finally speaks. What follows is a long, unbroken outpouring that moves between arguing with his friend, wrestling with his own despair, and crying out to God. In Job’s response to Eliphaz, we see how much pain he is in, what it reveals about his hidden grief, and why it still matters for anyone who has ever wanted to say, in their own words, you do not know what I am going through. You Don’t Know My Pain Oh that my vexation were weighed, and all my calamity laid in the balances! Job…
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What does it mean to be the only believer in their family? They live at home, they eat at the same table, they carry the same surname, and yet when it comes to the fear of God, they stand alone. It is not that they are unloved or unwanted — but the deepest thing about them, the thing that has actually changed their life, is a thing no one else at home shares. This is the struggle we deal with today: what does God have to say to the believer who feels cut off from their own people? Let no…
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Paul, addressing the believers in Rome and having guided them through the realities of sin, the law, and the Spirit, now brings forth one of the most important truth in all of Scripture. He proclaims that those who belong to God are embraced by a love that cannot be separated from Him by anyone or anything. However, he also warns his readers by confronting us with some uncomfortable truths about our true nature and the distance we still have to travel in fully realizing what God has bestowed upon us. Adopted to Sonship For those who are led by the…
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Eliphaz was one of Job’s three friends who came to sympathize with him in his lowest moment. He hailed from Teman, a region in Edom, and his name means “my God is strength,” suggesting that he had family roots that proclaimed Yahweh as their strength. Perhaps the writer of Job chose a name already tied to the lineage of Esau for a friend hailing from Edom, as Eliphaz was also the name of Esau’s firstborn. Eliphaz addresses Job first and continues to do so in every round of the dialogue, suggesting he is likely the eldest of Job’s three friends.…
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Saul was a Benjamite, the son of Kish, and was only a young man, when he came to power. He is described as a handsome man and a head taller than anyone else in the land. Benjamin was one of the smallest tribes of Israel, with a troubled past and a history of revolt against the other eleven, so no one, least of all Saul himself, would have expected the first king of Israel to come from his tribe. One day he was out looking for his father’s lost donkeys when his search led him, almost by accident, into the…
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Prophet Micah asks a question that every generation of believers must answer for itself: what does the Lord actually want from us? Not what we assume He wants, not what tradition has told us He wants — but what He Himself has already told us plainly. He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 (NIV) God is not hiding what is good from us. He has already made it known. Yet we keep behaving as…
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Reiterating to impress upon his audience, Paul emphasizes that there is no condemnation for those who place their faith in Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross, which draws us closer to the Father. What the Law could not achieve, God sent His obedient Son to accomplish on our behalf, allowing us to return to Him. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.Romans 8:4 (NIV) Our Inability to Forgive Others If…
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No one can definitively say when or where Job lived or who recorded his story. Some suggest he was a contemporary of Abraham, while others argue he existed long before the patriarch of Israel. There are even those who believe Job flourished much later, within the territory of Edom. What is certain is that the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel reflect on his laments during the exilic period of Israel, indicating that both the name and story were recognized across generations. It’s possible that Job’s tale began as an oral tradition, much like the narratives of Abraham and Jacob, long before…
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In his epistle to the Romans, Paul portrays God as the One who hates Esau and loves Jacob. Paul takes up a question first raised in the book of Malachi — a question so provocative that it forces us to pause: is God unjust? Paul’s answer is an emphatic “no.” Yet the way he justifies this answer seems, at first glance, to paint God as partial rather than impartial. He grounds his argument in a striking statement God made to Moses in Exodus: “I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom…
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A common Christian belief holds that people must pray for themselves — with penitence and confession — for God to answer their prayers. Many leaders and parents hold to this view, and as a result, they neglect to intercede for their own children who have lost their way and are wandering in the wilderness of this world. To some extent, this may apply to certain individuals whom God is patiently waiting to come to Him in repentance. But what about the person who does not know God at all? It is for this reason that this article sheds light on…
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Most of us instinctively think of rules as the solution to bad behavior. More laws, stricter enforcement, clearer boundaries — thinking that this is how you fix a broken society or a person. Paul thought the same way once as he was, by his own account, a man of impeccable legal credentials, zealous and disciplined. And then he discovered that the law he had devoted his life to, could diagnose his condition perfectly — but could do absolutely nothing to cure it. Legally Bound For example, by law a married woman is bound to her husband as long as he…
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This portion of the Psalm falls under the Hebrew letter “ע” Ayin, which means “eyes.” Our physical eyes are the source of our sight, and through them, we are blessed to behold God’s creation. Yet physical sight is limited to what is visible; within us also lies a spiritual eye, one that allows us to perceive the Creator through what He has made. Paul challenges everyone living on this earth with the truth that creation itself testifies to its Creator, and for this very reason, no one can claim ignorance of God. This is a compelling argument for the existence…
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Believers often wait for healing and deliverance before they will glorify God’s name. When peace and earthly blessings are absent from their families, they hesitate to spread His love. Yet many times, God reveals His glory through sickness, weakness, deepest failure, and the contempt of loved ones — in moments when sin is exposed, or even when we are falsely accused. Through such circumstances, He makes it known that He alone is the living God, sovereign over every situation life presents. However, the outcome depends on how we respond during the darkest seasons of our lives. If we continue seeking…
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After establishing that we are buried with Christ and raised to a new life, where our sins are covered by His grace, Paul addresses a crucial question. This question likely came to the minds of his readers in the early church in Rome and still resonates with modern believers: If grace covers everything, what’s stopping us from continuing in our sinful ways and coming to God later in life to receive His grace? Many people believe that Paul is giving a license to sin by emphasizing the power of grace. In his response, Paul breaks down the true nature of…
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This portion of Psalm 119 is grouped under the Hebrew letter ס (Samekh), which symbolizes support, protection, and memory, and means to lean upon, uphold, and sustain. We usually seek the support of a staff only when we grow old and weak, but while we are healthy, we barely give it a second thought. The truth, however, is that when our outer being is healthy, our inner being is often weak because we tend to rely on our own strength rather than on God. This self-reliance quietly suffocates our souls, often without us even realising it. Paul urges us not…
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“Seek Ye First” is a Scripture song by Karen Lafferty, commonly dated to 1972 and based chiefly on Matthew 6:33. It calls believers to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, trusting in the Father’s provision. This verse is generally understood to mean that believers must prioritize seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness in order to receive the blessings of this world. It serves as a warning to those who seek worldly gains before the Kingdom of God. Such believers are instead encouraged to pursue God first and allow everything else to follow suit. However, when a believer seeks…
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As we live in this fallen world, we face problems every day and in every area of our lives. Struggles are present everywhere—from personal inner conflict, family relationships, and social reputation to workplace pressures and even within spiritual communities. Perhaps the most disturbing of all are the wounds we carry from religious spaces—places we enter in search of peace yet often leave feeling more broken than before. Should it not be the other way around? Though we arrive as broken vessels, ought not these very places to offer us healing and rest? God is fully aware of the areas in…
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Back in the Garden, Adam’s sin opened the door to death, and each one of us walked through it. But Paul emphasizes that just as death came to all through one man, life has now come to all through another. And not just equal life—greater life. Grace that exceeds the damage, justification that outlasts the fall. The question is no longer what Adam cost us; the question is what we will do with what Christ has given us. Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all…
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This portion of the Psalm is grouped under the Hebrew letter Nun (נ), which carries the meaning of fish. Like a fish that is wholly at home in water, a believer ought to learn how to live entirely within the Word of God — the Living Water. And yet, just as a fish removed from water will struggle to breathe, so a believer who becomes fully immersed in the patterns of this world ought to feel the same discomfort and spiritual suffocation. Sadly, many do not experience this suffocation, for they have never known the vitality and health that come from living…
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The hymn “Just as I Am,” written in 1835 by Charlotte Elliott, was born out of a place of deep illness and inner spiritual struggle. From that state of weakness and questioning, its message emerged with quiet power — inviting souls to come to God without delay, without pretense, and without self-preparation. Over the years, this hymn has led many to surrender their lives, awakening them to the true nature of God’s gracious call. Yet, despite often hearing these words, many still hesitate to respond to that invitation. They wait until they feel worthy, striving to make themselves whole before…
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Every love we have ever known has had a condition buried somewhere within it — spoken or unspoken. But Paul confronts us with something our experience has not prepared us for: a love that moved toward us precisely when we gave it no reason to. Not after we repented but while we were still sinners. That is not how love is supposed to work — and yet, that is exactly the point. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this…
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The Hebrew letter Mem (מ) carries the meaning of water — and water, by its very nature, conceals what lies beneath it. We do not know its depth; we cannot see its borders and the image is deeply fitting: the whole world, with all the evil that moves within it, remains largely unknown to the common person. We sail upon it without fully understanding it. Yet the sailor is not without help. As the beam of a lighthouse guides a vessel safely through dark and uncharted waters to the shore, so the law of God guides a person through this unknown world,…
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We are all familiar with the two thieves who were crucified on either side of Jesus. While one cursed Jesus for His suffering, the other confessed his sin and acknowledged Jesus’s innocence. Though he did not fully understand it, he grasped the truth that Jesus was not being crucified for His own sin—if that were the case, He would instead have been crucified for bearing the sin of the world. From this, many believers conclude that baptism is not a requirement for entering the Kingdom of God. At the same time, many people, not understanding the real reason Jesus welcomed…
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Faith is an integral part of our walk with God. Without faith, we simply cannot sustain our relationship with Him. It is faith that God looks at, not our righteous acts, adherence to laws, practices of rituals, or participation in religious ceremonies. Only faith matters, and this was the point that Paul wanted to drive home to his audience. “There is no one righteous, not even one;there is no one who understands;there is no one who seeks God.All have turned away,they have together become worthless;there is no one who does good,not even one.”Romans 3:10-12 (NIV) There is No One Righteous…
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We are all aware that Psalm 119 is devoted entirely to illuminating the Word of God. This particular portion reminds us how the Word guides and sustains our journey through this fallen world, directing us toward our ultimate destination — where God grants us eternal life in exchange for our salvation. This section of Psalm 119 falls under the Hebrew alphabet “ל” (Lamedh), which carries the meaning of a goad — something that provokes or compels. In everyday English, the word “provoking” often implies irritating someone or stirring up indignation. However, in a broader sense — much like a catalyst in Chemistry —…
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Hoarding is the practice of buying and storing large quantities of a commodity, often to sell later at higher prices or to avoid future shortages. It is remarkable that certain servants of God hoard the love of God by keeping it for themselves, while artificially creating a sense of scarcity by spreading the falsehood that God is an angry God. In truth, the love of God is neither scarce nor exclusive — it is freely available to all people. Yet these self-serving servants deceive others by portraying God as a wrathful figure who constantly afflicts people with sickness and misfortune.…
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Addressing the Jewish believers in his letter to the Roman church, Paul points out that those who claim to uphold the law are often the very ones breaking it. Their over-reliance on the law and the hypocrisy in the way they follow it were causing others to turn away from God. Paul reminds them that if the heart is not aligned with God, then outward symbolic acts like circumcision, which the Jews held onto dearly especially after returning from exile in Babylon, become meaningless and are tantamount to blasphemy. You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by…
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As we are troubled by the problems of the world — and by those we have brought upon ourselves — a question lingers in our minds: When will God comfort us by removing all these struggles that are smothering us? The psalmist also questions God from this perspective, even while knowing that God will never forsake him under any circumstances. As we journey through this psalm, may the Holy Spirit help us find an answer to this widespread and long-held doubt that clouds the mind of every person. The Promises Of God My soul faints with longing for your salvation,but…
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We know that Jesus is the Word of God made human. We also confess that God’s Word is living—active and alive. If the Word is truly alive, does it dwell with God, or can it also dwell within us? The apostle Paul seems to believe so and urges us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). This is because God desires for His Word to dwell in us and transform our bodies into His temple. To understand why we should offer our bodies to God, we must first ask: why did God…
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In his letter to the church in Rome, Paul warns believers against judging one another, especially new believers who are coming into the body of Christ. He reminds them that as humans, we are prone to err and therefore have no basis to stand in judgment over another person. Only God is positioned to judge us, and we will not escape His judgment if we create barriers that keep people from coming to Him through our judgmental attitude. The irony is that sometimes we condemn in others the very same things that we ourselves struggle with in different ways. But…
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We have gradually abandoned the sacred practice of coming before God alone and sitting quietly at His feet. Instead of delighting in His presence, we have become preoccupied with presenting our petitions, neglecting the deeper call to listen. We have lost the discipline of allowing God to speak—giving Him space to unfold His Word, reveal its context, illuminate its meaning, and apply it to our lives today. This loss has been largely shaped by entrenched patterns of religious routine. Though God continually calls us to hear His voice, we have grown accustomed to the noise of the world—a noise that…
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Ever since Paul’s life was transformed that night on the road to Road to Damascus, his ministry, by and large, had been among the Gentiles. Just as Peter and the other apostles chose to present the case for Jesus as the Messiah among the Jewish communities, Paul—though a lifelong Pharisee steeped in Jewish rituals— chose a different path. Whether by choice or calling, he devoted himself to traveling to distant regions and islands, proclaiming the good news and the hope that comes with it. Although he was well known—perhaps even infamous—among the Gentile followers, he remained relatively unknown among the…
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This portion of Psalm is placed under the group heading of the Hebrew alphabet “י”Yodh, which means arm or hand. It is also the smallest letter, which signifies humility. The arm of God rests on us and is manifested through His grace in three ways. It empowers us to earn through working to sustain our life. It sustains us from everything that leads us to eternal destruction. It has also enlightened us to feel a sincere and true reliance on Him, that it is no more we but He who lives in us. God’s Product And Its Manual Your hands made…
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Through the prophet Isaiah, our Father God revealed His plan to save His people from eternal death. The Book of Isaiah says that Jesus was wounded for our transgressions. In the New International Version, it says that Jesus was pierced for our transgressions, and it concludes by saying, “by His wounds we are healed.” This is one of the most frequently quoted Bible verses among believers. But what benefit does a believer expect to receive because Jesus was wounded on the Cross two thousand years ago? Misconception About His Stripes But he was wounded for our transgressions,he was bruised for…
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The final portion of the book of Ezekiel addresses how the land and worship in Israel are to be organized under God’s guidance. These instructions are for when the people have returned to the homeland, and they pertain to how to conduct themselves regarding worship and the temple that they had defiled during the days of the kings of Israel. A sacred district is set aside for priests, Levites, and the city, with precise measurements to ensure fairness. The prince is given land alongside the holy portion, but he is commanded not to oppress the people. Instead, rulers must act…
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In the previous section of this Psalm, we learned to behold the overflowing love of God in this world, rising above the evil that prevails around us. In this passage, the Psalmist explains how he discerned between good and evil, and therefore sought God’s grace to deal graciously with him. This portion of Psalm 119 falls under the Hebrew letter “ט” (Teth), which carries the meaning of both good and evil. It is a paradoxical Hebrew expression that holds two opposites within a single letter. The world often separates good and evil because it fails to understand the connection between them,…
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The very things that kindle hatred within us often become the occasion through which the love and grace of God are revealed more abundantly. His love never diminishes; rather, it continues to increase even in the midst of human weakness and failure. This raises an important question for us to reflect upon: if God’s love remains constant and ever-growing, why does our love continue to fade? Instead of pondering this, we often become careless, presuming upon God’s grace and falling deeper into sin. Paul sarcastically challenges such thinking when he asks, “Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?”…
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In the twenty-fifth year of exile, fourteen years after the fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel is taken by the hand of the LORD in a vision to the land of Israel. He is set upon a high mountain, where he sees what appears to be a city. There, a figure with the appearance of bronze stands at the gateway, holding a measuring cord and rod. Ezekiel is instructed to observe carefully, listen attentively, and declare to the people of Israel everything that he is about to be shown—marking the beginning of the vision of a new temple. The Outer Court Ezekiel…
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This portion of the Psalm reveals how we can accomplish the will of God in our lives. It shows that when our hearts are filled with God’s love, we begin to perceive the unseen God and carry out His will without stumbling. The same love by which God saves His people enables us to live in obedience. However, to be filled with this love, we must first prepare our hearts by examining ourselves according to the standards of His Word. The psalmist labels this section with the Hebrew letter “ח” (Heth), which symbolizes a courtyard—a secure and private place where…
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God calls Ezekiel to speak about a period in the future when His people would have been restored and will be living in peace in His presence. They will no longer rely on walls or human defense systems to ward off the enemy, but will trust fully in God. Yet even then, the enemy will see this as an opportunity and attempt to attack God’s peaceful people and draw them away from His presence once more. This prophecy reveals that moment and shows how God will defeat the enemy once and for all. John the Revelator later describes a similar…
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At the conclusion of His ministry, Jesus reported to His Father that He has imparted to us the Word of God, further asserting that the Word of God constitutes the ultimate truth. Consequently, it is imperative for us to wholeheartedly embrace His Word in order to receive the countless blessings that God has designated for us. The Word of God must be fully assimilated by us to transform it into truth. Regrettably, we often regard these words merely as references and fail to accept them in their entirety. This article seeks to examine certain misconceptions that hinder our understanding and…
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The hand of the LORD came upon Ezekiel, and by the Spirit of the LORD he was carried into a valley filled with dry bones. This valley looked like the aftermath of a battle—where the entire army lay fallen, their bodies left unclaimed, stripped of honour, and reduced to dry bones scattered across the ground. As Ezekiel was led among them, he saw that they were many and utterly lifeless, and God asked him if he could imagine that these bones would ever live. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on…
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This section of the Psalm falls under the Hebrew letter “ז” (Zayin). The sound of this letter is linked to a word that means “sword.” As the Psalmist reflects on God’s Word, he presents it as a source of courage and strength—much like a sword in the hand of a warrior. For David, the sword was deeply significant. It was the weapon through which he first defeated Goliath, and with it he went on to win many battles, earning praise for his victories. Yet the same sword also became a symbol of his failure. In his covetousness, David arranged for his loyal…
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In discussions regarding the locations of heaven and hell, it is commonly inferred that heaven exists above the earth, while hell is situated below it. Jesus has provided clear explanations about heaven and the dwelling place designated for the redeemed; while Jesus explained the hell as a place of eternal punishment (Matthew 25:56), a place with unquenchable fire (Mark 9:43),a fiery furnace (Matthew 13:42) and the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14). Notably, the Old Testament does not reference a location specifically termed “hell,” but it does mention certain places on earth that are deemed uninhabitable. Furthermore, it indicates that wicked…
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The word of the LORD was delivered to Ezekiel to prophesy concerning the nations that emerged from Isaac: Edom and Israel. Edom, represented by Mount Seir, is judged because of its long hatred toward Israel. When Israel was weak and suffering, Edom took advantage of them, rejoiced in their fall, and even desired their land. Because of this, God declares that Edom will become a desolate land, filled with ruin and bloodshed. Their pride and hostility bring about their complete downfall, and their land will remain empty as a sign of God’s judgment. In contrast, Israel, though it had sinned…
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This section of Psalm 119 is associated with the Hebrew letter “ו” (Waw), which signifies a nail. It encourages contemplation on the manifestation of God’s love as revealed through the crucifixion of His Son. God, in His mercy, nailed all the records of our past sin to the cross — a love that liberates us from the enslavement of sin and rescues us from the perils of eternal death. With this in mind, we must come to the realization that nothing can prevail against the love of God. Even before God revealed His greatest act of love through Jesus Christ,…
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While barcodes have been used to store and track information, they have limitations on data capacity. The automotive industry identified the need for better solutions to monitor vehicles and parts during manufacturing. The first system of Quick Response (QR) codes was developed in 1994 by Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota. Since then, QR codes have helped people in many areas of life by improving efficiency and accuracy. While we can use this technology to save time in transactions and tracking, it’s important to remember that such technologies reflect what God expects from us. During His ministry, Jesus connected with…
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In the culture of ancient Israel, shepherds were some of the most familiar and meaningful figures in everyday life. Because Israel’s terrain consisted largely of hills, wilderness, and grazing land rather than fertile farmland, sheep herding was a common occupation. Many families owned flocks, and shepherding became an image deeply embedded in Israel’s language, leadership ideals, and spiritual understanding. Over time, this everyday role became a powerful way of describing leadership in Israel, and the nation’s rulers came to be known as the shepherds of Israel—particularly the kings and their officials, but also the priests and prophets who were responsible…
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Sin is often understood, in a broad sense, as breaking the rules and regulations of a religion. However, in Christianity, sin is more deeply defined as an offence against God and His ways. It can be understood in three dimensions: despising God’s people, acting against His commandments, and causing harm to others—whether physically or emotionally. While the first two are often seen in relation to faith—how one regards God’s people, mainly the servants of God, and responds to His commands—the third extends beyond religious boundaries. It speaks to our conduct toward all people. Yet, many limit this understanding, thinking it…
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In the twelfth year of the exile, during the tenth month, a refugee who had escaped from Jerusalem arrived in Babylon with the news that the city had fallen. Yet on the evening before the man reached the exiles, the LORD had already opened Ezekiel’s mouth, which had remained closed since the death of his wife. Just as God had foretold, the moment the report of Jerusalem’s fall reached Ezekiel, his ability to speak was restored. With the return of his voice, the word of the LORD came to him to confront the exiles, who had now also become privy…
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Psalm 119 centers entirely on the Word of God, with each section emphasizing how His Word gives understanding and leads us toward wholeness. This particular segment is associated with the Hebrew letter “He (ה),” which means “window.” Just as a house has windows to allow light and fresh air in—making it a healthy and livable space—our hearts also need “windows” to receive what God provides. God desired His people to live under His name, and for this reason He gave a specific blessing through the priests (Numbers 6:22–27): that His face would shine upon them, granting grace and peace. If…
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For many today, God remains “unknown,” a concept that Paul encountered in Athens, where he discovered an altar dedicated to the unknown God (Acts 17:23). Despite embracing many idols as gods, they still sensed the need to acknowledge a God above all, yet were unable to truly comprehend Him. This sentiment persists today, as people across the globe continue to perceive God as unknown. Indeed, while God is unseen, He is not unknown, as He unveils His presence each morning through the gift of new grace. Even Moses, at the outset, found God to be enigmatic when he inquired about…
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In the ancient Near East, a watchman was stationed on city walls or watchtowers with a singular responsibility: vigilance. He remained alert day and night, scanning the horizon for approaching enemies, messengers, or any sign of danger. When a threat appeared, he was expected to sound the trumpet or raise an alarm without delay. The safety of the entire city rested on his attentiveness. If he failed to warn the people, the consequences could be catastrophic, not only for the city but also for the watchman himself, who would be held accountable for his silence. Silence, in the face of…
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Then the LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. Genesis 2:7 (NIV) In the beginning, God created man in His image and bestowed upon him His presence. Furthermore, God provided man with all that he required, even before he recognized such needs. Despite God’s nurturing of mankind in all respects, they chose to disobey Him, driven by curiosity and questions regarding His instructions. Had they exhibited sufficient curiosity to seek knowledge of their Creator, circumstances may have unfolded differently. Due…
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The Son of Man died on the Cross as an atonement for our sins. Yet (as He was found righteous) the consequence of sin, which is death, did not have its hold on Him, and He rose on the third day. Since that moment, the sins of mankind have been forgiven by God the Father, regardless of their caste, race, or religion. Some have come to understand this Good News, while others remain unaware. Only those who recognize and believe that Jesus came in the flesh, sacrificed Himself for their sins, and rose on the third day are referred to…
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In the tenth year of the exile, at a time when Jerusalem had not yet fully fallen, the word of the LORD came to Ezekiel with a message regarding an old foe. This particular prophecy was aimed at Pharaoh Hophra, ruler of Egypt, and his people that God had entrusted to him. Pharaoh is portrayed as a great monster lurking in the streams of the Nile, confident that he is is untouchable. He acts like the Nile, the source of Egypt’s life and wealth, belongs to him, as if he created it himself. Confidence in Ourselves I am against you,…
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Psalm 119 is a meditation on the Word of God and is divided into 22 sections, corresponding to the Hebrew alphabets. It is noteworthy that each Hebrew letter conveys a specific meaning, and each section of this Psalm elucidates the significance of that letter in relation to the Word of God. For instance, the letter ג Gimel signifies “camel.” In the previous section, the Psalmist expresses the importance of preserving the Word of God in one’s heart to avoid sin. The subsequent section under the heading “camel” offers insight into the remarkable adaptations of the camel, which enable it to…
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The Apostle Paul referred to the wages of sin as death, describing it as the final enemy to be defeated (1 Corinthians 15:26). Communities celebrate a heroic king’s victory over a tyrant to reinforce the idea that good ultimately triumphs over evil. However, the significance of Jesus’ death extends far beyond this truth. On Good Friday, it was not an evil person who was executed, but a sinless person, crucified in accordance with God’s incredible plan established even before the foundation of the world. Whom Has Death Exercised Its Dominion Over? When the demise of the mortal body is perceived as…
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Our God does not bestow His glory upon anyone else (Isaiah 42:8), and the pertinent question we must consider is whether we are vigilant enough to ensure that we do not ascribe glory to any other being except to God. Does the concept illustrate the possessive nature of God? When God refers to Himself as a Jealous God (Deuteronomy 20:5), what implications does this carry? In contemporary English, jealousy is often characterized as a complex and troubling emotion, encompassing fear, insecurity, and anger, frequently manifesting as resentment towards the success or possessions of others. Does this definition accurately reflect the…
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Tyre was one of the most powerful and wealthy cities of the ancient world. Located on the Mediterranean coast in present-day Lebanon, it was a major Phoenician city-state renowned for maritime trade. By Ezekiel’s time in the sixth century BC, Tyre consisted of both a mainland settlement and a fortified island city about half a mile offshore. This island stronghold made Tyre extraordinarily difficult to conquer and gave its inhabitants a strong sense of security and superiority. Economically, Tyre was unmatched in the region. Her ships sailed across the Mediterranean, and her merchants traded with distant lands including Tarshish, Egypt,…
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As observed during our meditation on the initial segment of Psalm 119, we recognize that each section is assigned a designation derived from the Hebrew alphabet, which imparts a meaning pertinent to that particular segment. In this case, “Beth” signifies understanding, and this portion of Psalm 119 elucidates the rationale and methodology for adhering to the commands of God. It instructs us to find delight in obeying God’s commands, regarding them as nourishment rather than perceiving them as punitive measures. The author of the Epistle to the Hebrews portrays God as our Heavenly Father, who disciplines us continually to mold…
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Control keys on a computer keyboard perform special functions when pressed together with other keys. In a similar way, Scripture speaks of two keys that may need to be used in combination to unlock both spiritual and earthly blessings. Unfortunately, many use these keys separately. As a result, they may receive only worldly blessings—which, over time, can become a snare—while losing access to the other key that leads to the fullness of God’s blessings. Those who use the keys together, however, accomplish God’s will to the fullest. The Key Of David I will place on his (Eliakim’s) shoulder the key to the house…
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After the fall of Jerusalem, Ezekiel was able to speak again, and the word of the LORD came to him once more. This time, however, the message was not directed toward Jerusalem or his own countrymen, but toward Israel’s noisy neighbours—nations that had watched her collapse with satisfaction and celebrated her downfall. The prophecies against the surrounding nations reveal that the LORD is not only the Judge of Israel, but the Judge of all nations. Ammon Israel’s neighbors to the Northeast, the Ammonites were the descendants of Lot. They were always in opposition to Israel and reveled in idolatry. They…
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While God is the only One worthy of praise, His Words are equally deserving of exaltation. God Himself glorifies His Word due to His righteousness (Isaiah 42:21). As God honors His Word, we must also consider whether we glorify it by living in accordance with it, or if we merely recite these Words without embodying their significance. The complete Psalm 119 specifically addresses the Word of God, asserting that outside of His Word, there exists no truth in this world. Jesus implored His Father to sanctify us through His Word, thereby affirming that the Word of God is truth (John…
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In this contemporary society, while we benefit from scientific advancements in every aspect of our lives, we harbor a fear of doing good, as it has become an anomaly among individuals. Engaging in malevolent actions is considerably simpler, as we conform to societal norms where no one intervenes to highlight our transgressions, given that everyone seems to partake in similar behaviors. Conversely, when an individual aspires to enact goodness, others perceive him as unworthy of existence. In essence, standing for the truth in a world increasingly inclined toward falsehood renders what is false appear as truth, while the truth itself…
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After all the warnings God had given to the people of Jerusalem through Ezekiel, the time for repentance had passed, and God began to describe the events that were already unfolding. The LORD marked the exact day the king of Babylon laid siege to Jerusalem, making it clear that ruin of Jerusalem was not influenced by the ambitions of its king or his military strength, but by God’s sovereign will. In his third and final parable, Ezekiel returns to the image of the pot, this time with greater detail, as God instructs him to deliver one last parable to confront…
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This Psalm is one of the Psalms that was sung during the Passover festival, and as Jesus Himself sang this song in the upper room, the dimensions of this Psalm changed into a triumph song because Jesus conquered death on the Cross and liberated us from the devil’s false allegations. If we have the confidence that we too have conquered death because Jesus conquered it, the meaning of this Psalm will have a different perspective in our transformed lives. God Is Good Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;his love endures forever.Let Israel say:“His love endures forever.”Let the…
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There is a widespread cultural apprehension regarding the evil eye, which is believed to wreak havoc on families. This fear has been perpetuated by our ancestors, rooted in numerous documented occurrences where families suffered devastation and their properties diminished following the public exposure of their happiness and prosperity. However, if we approach this perspective logically, one might argue that if the evil eye truly exists, then it threatens the well-being of all individuals. This raises the question of why some individuals seem influenced to the detrimental effects of what is termed the evil eye, while others are not. To alleviate…
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As was often the case, the word of the LORD came to Ezekiel in the form of an allegory. He gave the example of two sisters who gave themselves over to the lust of the world, allowing the world to have its way with them. The elder sister was named Oholah, and the younger, Oholibah. From their youth they were involved in prostitution, and this pattern of unfaithfulness persisted throughout their lives—returning again and again, no matter how many times they were delivered from it. They were mine and gave birth to sons and daughters. Oholah is Samaria, and Oholibah…
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It is intriguing to refer to our God as the Righteous One and the Holy One. As God embodies holiness, He has called us to attain holiness ourselves, enabling us to experience His presence at its fullest. Regrettably, despite our recognition of God as a righteous One and His invitation to pursue holiness, we often fall short of embodying righteousness and holiness required to keep us in His presence. Practically speaking, we often lack the necessary edification in our lives, merely addressing God as the Righteous and the Holy without comprehending the true significance of these titles. Consequently, one must…
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While we perceive the image of God through our imagination or the descriptions provided by those who have encountered Him, this significantly contributes to our faith. John observed Jesus as the authentic image of God; however, the life he witnessed in Jesus is far away from any portrait of Him that believers might perceive regarding God’s image. Similarly, Peter, James, and John beheld the transfiguration of Jesus, yet what they witnessed in that moment does not fully represent God’s appearance. Let us seek to understand, according to Scripture, who God is and what His image may encompass. God Created Man:…
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When Jerusalem refused to listen to the warnings God delivered through Ezekiel, the Lord raised up His sword in the form of the powerful Babylonian Empire. Ironically, God used the pagan land Abraham was called out of to accomplish His will against his descendants, who had returned to those same practices. Ezekiel is instructed to announce judgment against the southern kingdom of Judah and against Jerusalem, the self-proclaimed “holy city”. I am about to set fire to you, and it will consume all your trees, both green and dry. The blazing flame will not be quenched, and every face from…
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This is the shortest psalm in the entire Book of Psalms. It is traditionally believed to have been sung each year during the Passover festival, commemorating the deliverance God granted to His people. When God brought Israel out of Egypt so they might worship Him wholeheartedly, there was also a prevailing understanding that He protected His own while overthrowing their enemies. After crossing the Red Sea in triumph and witnessing Pharaoh’s army drowned in the waters, Miriam led the people in song: “Sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the…
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As we embark upon a new year, it is a common practice for individuals to establish resolutions across various domains of their lives, including healthcare, physical fitness, diet, discipline, and spiritual commitments. However, these resolutions tend to endure for only a brief period. Notably, the commitment to spiritual endeavours often dissipates quite rapidly, while the other objectives may persist for a longer duration. This phenomenon highlights the priorities we assign, with subjects of lesser importance quickly fading from our consciousness. Although many of us acknowledge these setbacks as factual representations of our lives, it often remains challenging to identify the…
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During the Babylonian exile, the prophet Ezekiel was living among the deported Israelites by the River Kebar when the elders of Israel came to him to inquire of the LORD. Although their approach appeared to be filled with remorse, God refused to answer their inquiry. Instead, He commanded Ezekiel to confront them with Israel’s long and persistent history of rebellion. Have you come to inquire of me? As surely as I live, I will not let you inquire of me, declares the Sovereign LORD.Ezekiel 20:3 (NIV) Why does the LORD refuse to respond to the inquiries brought before Him by…
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This Psalm commences by establishing the principle that all occurrences in our lives must be ascribed to God, thereby negating the merit of our own actions. It is often challenging for individuals to fully acknowledge the attribution of God, as they tend to view achievements as the result of their own effort, strength, wisdom, and actions. The Psalm concludes with a hope of glorifying God upon the attainment of eternal life, a concept that was beyond the understanding of those who composed it. Furthermore, this Psalm serves as a prophetic announcement of the purpose behind God’s sending His Son to…
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God consistently urges us to abandon fear, as fear and doubt constitute distressing emotions triggered by the perception of imminent danger, malevolence, or pain, irrespective of whether the threat is concrete or hypothetical; they encapsulate a state of apprehension. When the threat is tangible, fear endures until the imminent danger manifests; conversely, if it is solely a construct of the imagination, the experience may endure indefinitely. Human beings possess the capacity to envision various scenarios, and through this imaginative capability, a multitude of creative expressions and innovative concepts have been brought into existence. A Spherical Earth While many believed the…
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Seeing the state of the Davidic kingdom in ruins, Ezekiel delivers his message against Judah as a lament, expressing grief rather than merely pronouncing judgment. In his lament, Ezekiel compares Judah to a lioness raising powerful cubs, its kings who were meant to rule responsibly and in keeping with the covenant the LORD made with their ancestor David. Ezekiel is mourning not the loss of power itself, but the ruin of something precious that cannot be recovered. What a lioness was your mother among the lions!She lay down among them and reared her cubs.She brought up one of her cubs,…
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The Psalmist articulates his deep desire to reciprocate the goodness of God throughout his lifetime, grappling with the decision of what to offer in return. It is a prevalent human inclination to express gratitude through meaningful gifts to those who have assisted us in times of need. Many individuals prefer not to entangle their expressions of gratitude with material possessions, which may ultimately be returned, but rather intend to convey their appreciation with a heart brimming with thanks. However, certain individuals may resort to this practice as a means of limiting their expenditures, expressing gratitude solely through words rather than…
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God remains faithful in fulfilling His promises, which prompts believers to assert these promises through prayer. While many perceive God as one who answers prayers, a few find it challenging to comprehend this action of God. Some believers experience unanswered prayers and are thus labelled as sinners, thought to be devoid of God’s favor. Conversely, the truth is that sinners may often receive more favour from God than the righteous (Romans 5:20). Ignorant of the mechanisms through which God answers prayers, many individuals tend to attribute successes to their own merits when their prayers are fulfilled. They ascribe the responsiveness…
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The people of Jerusalem who were the audience to Ezekiel’s prophetic messages—displayed an unwillingness to engage in introspection and examine their deteriorated relationships with God. Despite the numerous parables and illustrations presented by Ezekiel, they remained resolute in their refusal to change their ways or acknowledge the sin that resided within them. They had long concluded that their struggles stemmed from the transgressions of their ancestors, rather than recognizing the implications of the current state of affairs in Jerusalem. God rebuked those who blamed earlier generations for their own wrongdoing, as well as those who assumed they could rely on…
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As Jesus entered this world, He brought with Him the Kingdom of God, enabling us to acclimate to living within His Kingdom while still on this earth. This situation can be likened to the lifestyle of astronauts, who utilise spaceship simulators to adjust to the realities of actual space travel. They learn to operate all the systems and adapt their diet to capsules instead of conventional food prior to embarking on their voyage. Because of this preparation, they do not experience much discomfort during their journey. Similarly, Jesus employs numerous parables to instruct us about the Kingdom of God and…
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Most individuals today live in a secular environment, which often presents a formidable challenge in maintaining one’s faith, particularly when one is pressured to set aside personal beliefs in favour of those held by individuals who do not know the true God. While it may seem that these challenges have recently emerged due to the diverse beliefs and faiths propagated by various religions, Scripture indicates that this issue is not novel; it has been a concern for the people of God throughout history. A significant example is found in the life of King Hezekiah, whom God led to confront such…
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The word of the LORD came to Ezekiel, and on this occasion the message was to be delivered as a parable, because the people of Jerusalem had become hardened and unresponsive to direct confrontation over their sins. A parable draws the listener in, engages the conscience, and exposes the heart before pride can defend itself. It invites the hearer to judge the story—and in doing so, to judge themselves. God uses parables throughout Scripture to confront hardened hearts that have grown cold towards Him. God confronted David with a parable of a stolen lamb, leading David to condemn his own…
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This Psalm underscores the creative power of God that continually controls His creations. This particular Psalm, believed to be sung by Jesus prior to His crucifixion, signifies the ultimate re-creation of man in His image. Contemplating what may have occupied the mind of Jesus while He sang this song during the meal that preceded the commencement of His sufferings and death for our sake can provide us with a renewed perspective on this Psalm. God’s Sanctuary When Israel came out of Egypt,Jacob from a people of foreign tongue, Judah became God’s sanctuary,Israel his dominion. – Psalms 114:1-2 (NIV) The Psalmist…
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Throughout Scripture, we repeatedly encounter people making vows before God as a solemn and voluntary promise. Though the Law did not command people to make vows, yet it did regulate them as once made, the vow became binding; failure to fulfil it was regarded as sin (Deuteronomy 23:21). Accordingly, Scripture consistently cautions that it is better not to vow at all than to make a vow carelessly, falsely, or with impure motives. “It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.”Ecclesiastes 5:5 (NIV) God has given us everything we need since before our…
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Jerusalem was the city set on a hill, chosen by God as the capital of the promised land that He had given to the descendants of Abraham. Jerusalem was a stronghold known for its fortifications and seemingly impregnable position, and it became both the political and spiritual center of Israel. Yet over time, the inhabitants of this ancient city grew cold and hardened their hearts to ignore the will of God in their lives. The people began to trust in its walls rather than in their Provider, placing greater importance on their heritage and lineage. In doing so, the city…
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Psalms 113-118 are traditionally believed to have been sung during the Passover meal, serving as a commemoration of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. In this context, Psalm 113 underscores the transformative power that God instills in the lives of all individuals. This particular Psalm, sung by Jesus prior to His crucifixion, signifies the ultimate transformation that God has enacted in the world. To contemplate what may have occupied the mind of Jesus while He sang this song during the meal that preceded the commencement of His sufferings and death for our sake can provide us with a renewed perspective on this…
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Salvation can be defined as the act of being rescued from any form of harm. In the Biblical narrative, God liberated the Israelites from the bonds of slavery to enable their unobstructed worship of Him. Nevertheless, they expressed a desire to revert to their former enslavement, willingly trading their liberty to satiate their cravings. They exhibited dissatisfaction with the manna provided by God, yearning instead for the sustenance they had in Egypt. Essentially, they were prepared to relinquish their salvation for momentary and perishable pleasures. In a similar manner, individuals often find themselves yearning to revert to their previous lifestyles,…
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One day, some elders of Judah came to meet Ezekiel, perhaps hoping to hear what the LORD had to say about their present condition or the exile that awaited them. As they sat before him, the word of the LORD came, revealing that these men claimed to belong to Him yet had built idols within their own hearts. They had placed stumbling blocks before their faces, choosing to ignore the LORD’s warnings while giving others a false sense of security that everything was acceptable as long as they continued to offer praise. Because they had grown accustomed to dismissing His…
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Our God is undeniably deserving of praises, and there are myriad reasons to honor Him. In spite of these countless grounds for reverence, it is not unusual for us to discern faults in Him and to neglect to offer the praise that He rightfully merits. It is essential that we abandon our practice to question His fidelity and instead commence honoring Him for all that He has done for us. Upon contemplation of His works on our behalf, we should discover an unwavering inspiration to extol Him; however, when we nurture expectations that He is obliged to fulfill our wishes,…
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Once, after one of His sermons, Jesus addressed His disciples, asking why they kept calling Him ‘Lord’ yet did not put into practice what He had taught them. The disciples had given up their jobs, left their families, and were diligently following their Rabbi, so they were committed — but they lacked the perception to understand what He truly wanted from them. Because of this, they were not able to put into practice all that they were hearing. So Jesus proceeded to teach them a parable of two contrasting builders: one who built his house on sandy shores, and another…
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God reminds Ezekiel that he is living among a rebellious people who refuse to see or hear His warnings. To deliver His message, God instructs Ezekiel to enact a prophetic sign of exile. Before the people’s eyes, he is to pack his belongings, dig through a wall, and carry his things away at dusk, symbolising the coming captivity of Jerusalem. This acted sign serves as a warning to the prince of Jerusalem and to all who remain in the city. Just as Ezekiel moves into exile, so the people—together with their prince—will be taken away. The prince will attempt to…
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Through the prophet Isaiah, God affirmed that, irrespective of circumstances, He would not retract His grace and compassion from any individual (Isaiah 54:10). God remains faithful to His promise even today, having given His only Son as atonement for our sin, despite our unworthiness in His sight. His grace and compassion transcend our shortcomings, saving us from the eternal death that awaited us, even while we were oblivious to our plight and to His love. This represents the fundamental characteristic of God, which in contemporary times has been largely overshadowed by middlemen, leading to a prevailing sense of uncertainty among…
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The Scriptures state that God created mankind as male and female, and likewise, He created animals, birds, creeping things, and fish in pairs. However, humanity was created in His image. Consequently, God established everything in pairs. In this context, God declared that every word that proceeds from His mouth will sustain mankind, and the Spirit of God gathers together its respective pairs. When God indicates that His Spirit will couple the words with each other, it may superficially suggest the fulfillment of prophecies, where prophecy is considered one pair and fulfillment the other. Believers often seek appropriate words to receive…
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Ezekiel is once again taken by the Spirit to witness the true condition of Jerusalem—not as the people imagine it to be, but as God sees it. At the eastern gate of the temple, the prophet was shown twenty-five influential men, those entrusted with guiding the city. Yet these leaders were not anchors of righteousness rather they became architects of corruption. They plotted evil under the guise of stability, reassuring the people with the false confidence that Jerusalem was secure, “a pot” that will protect the “meat” within. Their words sounded reassuring, but their counsel lead the people further away…
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This Psalm addresses matters largely overlooked by most believers yet discerned by the author. It is not a vision or a unique revelation to the author; rather, it reflects common expectations of every believer. Consequently, Jesus instructed us to pray for the coming of His Kingdom and for His will to be accomplished on earth as it is in heaven. Although this prayer is imparted by Jesus to all, it raises the question of why many believers do not receive insights into heavenly activities that correspond with the occurrences on earth amidst the advent of Jesus. The choice lies with…
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When discussing the concept of idols, it is important to note that Abraham, recognized as the father of faith, originated from a family that engaged in idol worship (Joshua 24:2). God called Abram from this family, which was complicit in idol worship, and commanded him to depart and follow Him (Genesis 12:1). The Apostle Paul articulated that individuals can perceive their Creator through the magnificence of His creation; nonetheless, they exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal human beings, as well as birds, animals, and reptiles (Romans 1:20-23). Although we have embraced the true faith and…
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One day, while Ezekiel was sitting with the elders of Judah, the LORD’s hand came upon him. In a vision, the Spirit lifted him to the temple in Jerusalem, where he saw the idol of jealousy standing at the north gate. God showed him that the people were committing detestable acts in His sanctuary. And he said to me, “Son of man, do you see what they are doing—the utterly detestable things the Israelites are doing here, things that will drive me far from my sanctuary? But you will see things that are even more detestable.” Ezekiel 8:6 (NIV) Ezekiel…
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We observe David approaching God in light of the adversities he encountered, prompting the question: if not for these challenges, where would he be? However, before contemplating this inquiry concerning David’s life, this Psalm invites us to introspect. Are we aligned with God solely due to tribulations, or are we drawn by the blessings and peace that He imparts? Typically, periods of peace engender a sense of complacency, often ensnaring individuals in comfort. This Psalm is widely recognised as a prayer Psalm, noted for entrusting our adversaries to God’s discretion, as David exemplified, despite possessing the means to vanquish them.…
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The Sabbath, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a revered tradition across numerous cultures, epitomizing a designated time for rest, reflection, and familial bonding. This weekly observance functions not only as a respite from the demands of daily life but also as an occasion for participating in meaningful rituals that reinforce community bonds and cultivate spiritual connections. As the week culminates in this sacred day, individuals and families are afforded the opportunity to rejuvenate their spirits and strengthen their relationships. However, it is important to acknowledge that the Sabbath, instituted by the Lord as a day of rest…
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The Prophet Ezekiel is commanded to speak not merely to the people, but to the very mountains of Israel—the high places where idolatry had taken deep root in the land. These heights, once meant to reflect the glory of the Creator, had become platforms of spiritual betrayal. Through this vivid prophetic message, we see both the severity of God’s wrath against persistent idolatry and the tenderness of His faithfulness in preserving a remnant. It calls us to examine the loyalties of our own hearts, to recognise how easily worship can be misplaced, and to remember that the LORD alone is…
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David composed this psalm, reflecting on God’s triumph over His people’s adversaries from the time of Abraham until his own era. In this Psalm, David draws upon the victories granted by God to his forebears, relating them to his contemporary context. This serves as a significant illustration for us, demonstrating how we ought to connect the events chronicled in the Old Testament to our own lives, particularly as we exist in the age of grace. By referencing scripture, we can renew our strength and fortify our faith, thereby rendering our prayers more meaningful. Furthermore, Jesus later spoke of the Comforter,…
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While the temple serves as a concrete structure, the church embodies the collective of redeemed individuals united in gratitude to God for the forgiveness of sin. This movement originated immediately following the ascension of Jesus to His Kingdom, at which point God sent His Spirit into the world to impart His Word to the believers. Consequently, the Spirit gathered them as a church, resulting in the daily addition of redeemed individuals in significant numbers (Acts 2:47). The Impact of Religion In the Old Testament, the Jews established a religion known as Judaism, which subsequently mandated that only Jews could be…
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Ezekiel was chosen by God to bring the message of repentance to a generation that had hardened their hearts. Even in exile, these people were not ready to aim the corrective lens at themselves, but, armed by false prophets who lied through their teeth, the people were awaiting God to bring down the mighty Babylonians. To make these people understand the severity of their offence and the weight of God’s judgment that was upon them, Ezekiel was instructed to dramatise the coming judgment, communicating through symbolic actions rather than spoken words about what God’s judgment upon Jerusalem would be. Even…
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God sent His Son to bear our sins, though Jesus Himself was without sin. Through disobedience, mankind lost the eternal life that God intended for us, and the law declares that the wages of sin is death. Therefore, Christ carried our sin, endured death on our behalf, and overcame it—precisely because He was sinless. In this way, God offered Jesus on the cross as the atoning sacrifice for our sins, granting us forgiveness through His obedience. With this in mind, there are differing understandings of the phrase “by His stripes we are healed.”Some hold that this healing refers only to…
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Ezekiel, the son of Buzi, was both a priest and a prophet taken into Babylonian exile around 597 BC during King Jehoiachin’s deportation. His prophetic visions began in 593 BC and continued for about twenty-two years among the Jewish exiles living by the Kebar River in Babylon. A contemporary of Jeremiah, who prophesied from Jerusalem, Ezekiel ministered from within captivity itself, addressing a disheartened people who believed they had been forsaken by God. The once-prosperous kingdom of Judah had fallen under Babylonian domination, and by 586 BC, both Jerusalem and the temple lay in ruins. The exiles wrestled with despair,…
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Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalm 119:105 (NIV) To comprehend this well-known verse, it is imperative to first grasp how the Word of God illuminates our path. In his Gospel (John 1:1-14), John articulates, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made.” We affirm that God expressed His Word to bring forth the universe and all within it. Furthermore, John…
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Life often feels full and busy—we make plans, chase goals, and think about what we want to achieve next. But James reminds us how short and uncertain life really is and that we should not depend on our own strength or plans but on God’s will. James warns us not to live as if tomorrow is promised, not to treat faith like a set of rules, and not to think we can control or save others. Instead, he calls us to trust God in every part of life—our plans, our prayers, and our service—knowing that everything only has meaning when…
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Having overcome Laban, Jacob prepares for his next obstacle on his way back home — his scorned brother, Esau. On the journey, the angels of the Lord meet him, and for some reason, Jacob sees it fit to rename that place Mahanaim, meaning “two camps” — one for himself and one for God and His angels (Genesis 32:1–2). This figurative split becomes a reality when Jacob learns that Esau is coming to meet him with four hundred men. Fear grips him once more. He quickly divides his household into two camps, thinking, “If Esau comes and attacks one group, the…
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When we consider the words of Jesus, we find that His greatest command is to love God and to love all His creations. We all claim to love God, yet we often fail to love others. Why do we struggle to love His creations? We tend to love only those who love us in return. We only know how to love those we are familiar with. We look for shared experiences or common ground before extending love. We find it difficult to love those who hate us. Too often, our love is conditional—driven by what we can gain rather than…
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In every generation, the temptation to value people by their outward appearance rather than their inward worth persists. Society often honours the wealthy, the influential, and the well-dressed, while quietly overlooking those who seem insignificant. Yet James, writing to the early church, confronts this very mindset among believers that faith in Christ and favouritism cannot coexist. He exposes the hypocrisy of giving honour to the rich while neglecting the poor, reminding the church that true faith is measured not by social status or appearance but by how one treats others. Favoritism in Church Why do people show favouritism in churches…
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The Christian religion defines faith as the act of believing and receiving the truth that God reveals through His Word. Furthermore, it emphasizes the necessity of questioning what God conveys to us through His Word. In light of this rigorous teaching, individuals diligently strive to comprehend the truth, albeit within the confines of their understanding. When our grasp of the truth is limited, believing it becomes comparatively easier; however, when we endeavor to understand the truth in its entirety, we often find ourselves struggling to maintain that belief. Consequently, we tend to restrict our comprehension of truth to the extent…
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In his letter, James confronts the root of conflict within the early church—not external persecution, but the inner turmoil born from selfish desire. He exposes how envy, greed, and pride fracture relationships and distance mankind from God. These tensions, James reveals, are not merely social issues but spiritual ones, reflecting divided hearts that seek worldly satisfaction rather than submission to God. His words serve as a piercing call to humility, repentance, and renewed devotion. He encourages his readers to follow a path from pride to peace—where surrender to God replaces striving, and purity of heart restores fellowship both with God…
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God assures us that His mercy will remain with us unconditionally. This promise was conveyed to us through His Prophet Isaiah in the following verse: Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you. – Isaiah 54:10 (NIV) Yet often individuals do not place their trust in His mercy and instead yield to the deception of the devil, believing that, as sinners, God has withdrawn His mercy from them and is punishing them. With…
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Every individual yearns for tranquility, and some even dedicate themselves to fostering peace in times of chaos and turmoil. When conflicts erupt between nations, the United Nations actively engages in mediation efforts, urging the involved parties to agree to a ceasefire. Likewise, in society, when disputes lead to division, mediators come forward to help reconcile opposing sides, all aimed at promoting harmonious coexistence. In the church, fellowships are often established with the intention of uniting believers. Unfortunately, rather than fostering unity, divisions can sometimes emerge. In these situations, certain believers take on the role of peacemakers, hoping that their efforts…
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When addressing the matter of controlling the tongue and seeking wisdom from God, James urges his readers to recognise the weight of their words. He reminds them that speech has the power to either heal or harm, and therefore must be governed by godly wisdom. According to James, anyone who considers themselves religious yet fails to keep their tongue in check is only deceiving themselves, for such religion holds no real value before God. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God…
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We believe that God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one—united and inseparable in essence and nature. This perfect unity is evident from the very beginning, even in the work of creation. In Genesis 1:26, God declares, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” The plural expression here reveals the triune nature of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—acting…
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Addressing the persecuted and scattered believers of the early Church, James speaks to them about living out their faith in daily life. If our faith is alive and active, it should guide our every action and gradually transform us. Though his words are often surrounded by controversy, with some thinking he stressed deeds over faith, the real lesson is clear: faith in God naturally overflows into our actions, but the reverse is not necessarily true. Even today, many have forgotten the faith aspect and focus instead on works and good deeds as a way to build faith. Yet we must…
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After twenty long years of deceit, servitude, and strained relationships, Jacob finally reached his breaking point. The once mutually beneficial relationship between him and his uncle Laban had soured beyond repair. What began as a place of refuge after Jacob’s flight from Esau had turned into another prison of manipulation. Yet, God’s voice broke through the tension and gave Jacob the courage he needed to return home. Then the LORD said to Jacob, ‘Go back to the land of your fathers and to your relatives, and I will be with you.’Genesis 31:3 (NIV) In the fields, far from listening ears,…
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It is God’s unique nature to create things out of nothing. While modern science has achieved many remarkable inventions that cause people to marvel, every discovery relies on what already exists. Scientists must depend on natural resources as raw materials, and often on animals for testing and refinement, before their ideas can be brought into reality. In contrast, God requires no raw materials to bring forth what He desires. His creations are perfect and complete from the very beginning, with no need for testing or adjustment. Put To Death The Misdeeds of The Body Although God’s creative power is evident…
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In a world marked by uncertainty and suffering, the call to persevere through trials seems impossible. The chief purpose of James’ letter to the scattered Jewish believers was to offer encouragement in the midst of such challenges. Perseverance emerges as the central theme, bookending his entire message to believers spread across Asia, Europe, and Northern Africa. From the outset, James directs his words to those enduring persecution for their faith, urging them to remain steadfast and to trust in God’s faithfulness despite the hardships they face. Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many…
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The Epistle of James was most probably written by James, the brother of Jesus. Though he had initially rejected the ministry of Christ, he later experienced a change of heart and rose to become the supreme leader of the Church in Jerusalem. James was respected for his devotion, wisdom, and prayerful life, and he became a key figure in leading the early Christian community during its formative years. James wrote at a time when the church in Jerusalem was under immense pressure. Believers of Jewish descent, many of whom had accepted Jesus as the Messiah, were scattered across different regions…
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After a long journey of nearly 500 miles from Canaan, Jacob finally arrived at a well in the land of the eastern peoples—wearied and empty-handed, bearing nothing with him except the promise of God. Nearly a century earlier, at perhaps this very spot, Abraham’s servant Eliezer had met Rebekah. As Jacob spoke with shepherds waiting to water their flocks, a young woman approached with her sheep. “While Jacob was still talking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherd. When Jacob saw Rachel daughter of his uncle Laban, and Laban’s sheep, he went over and…
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A common thought among us is that, although the death of our loved ones brings sorrow and grief, we sometimes find comfort in believing that they are now free from pain, sickness, and struggles, resting in the bosom of Jesus Christ. In earthly death, every person is laid to rest with the hope of resurrection on the day of judgment. To give awareness about life after death, Jesus once told a disciple, “Let the dead bury their own dead,” refusing him permission to perform the last rites for his father. Though this may seem socially harsh, Jesus was teaching an…
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In the third and final cycle of his prophecies Micah depicts a courtroom, where the Lord Himself rises to bring His charge against His people, summoning creation—the mountains and the very foundations of the earth—as witnesses to hear His case. God reminds His people how He redeemed them from slavery, gave them leaders in Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, and protected them from threats on their journey into the land He had promised. Yet, instead of remembering His saving acts and knowing Him personally, the people turned to their hollow religion, imagining that costly sacrifices or extreme offerings might satisfy Him.…
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We know that God loves sinners, and it was through this immeasurable grace that we were saved when we ourselves were sinners. The same love that once redeemed us continues to reach out to those still far from Him. However, while God still loves the sinner, a question often arises in the hearts of His children—does He still love us? In the Old Testament, God often displayed His power by destroying the enemies of His people, and His children praised Him for such mighty acts. But now, since He gave His Son as the atonement for the sins of the entire…
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Although nearly two thousand years have passed since God forgave our sins by offering His own Son as the atonement, many in this world still remain in darkness, unable to grasp the light of the Gospel or realize that their sins were forgiven long ago, and thus do not receive their share of salvation. On the other hand, those who believe they have been saved by His grace must ask themselves whether they have truly received salvation in its fullness. Have we ever paused to wonder why, even after God has completed everything necessary for mankind’s salvation, not everyone on…
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The words spoken by the LORD through the prophet Micah are the echoed in Jesus’ infamous Sermon on the Mount. In what we now call the Beatitudes, we often view the words of Jesus as radical. Yet the same theme had always been spoken by God. It was simply ignored and misunderstood by His people. I will gather the lame;I will assemble the exilesand those I have brought to grief.I will make the lame my remnant,those driven away a strong nationMicah 4:6-7 (NIV) Micah uses the imagery of a woman in labour, writhing in agony. Though her present state is…
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In the Old Testament, God’s presence on earth is revealed through events that often appeared as natural phenomena. His glory represents the manifestation of His being in visible forms that people could witness. Some of these tangible expressions of God’s glory included the cloud, the pillar of fire, and smoke. Bible scholars often describe these manifestations with the term “Shekinah Glory,” coined to distinguish them from ordinary occurrences. In the New Testament, the unseen God revealed Himself by sending His Son, Jesus, through whom mankind can encounter Him and behold Him face to face in His Kingdom after this earthly life. While…
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In the days of the prophet Micah, the leaders and prophets abandoned their calling to uphold justice and instead became the very agents of corruption and oppression. Those entrusted with protecting the people exploited them, driven by greed and self-interest, leading the nation further into downfall. God, through Micah, confronted this abuse, announcing His coming judgment upon rulers who twisted truth and preyed on the weak. Yet alongside this stern warning, God also revealed a promise of restoration: a future where the Mountain of the Lord would be exalted above all, drawing nations from every corner, and where people would…
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This psalm reminds us of the importance of continually remembering God in our daily lives. Sadly, many of us tend to think of Him only on Sundays or during designated “prayer times.” Some even assume that God’s presence is manifested only when there is a large gathering of people. But the truth is, His presence is always with us—it is we who often approach Him only when it suits our convenience. Always Seek God Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name;make known among the nations what he has done.Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his…
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Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah and Hosea, ministered in the southern kingdom of Judah during the turbulent reigns of Kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. His message came as a solemn warning to Judah, which stood on the brink of danger who were about to witness the northern kingdom’s downfall at the hands of the powerful Assyrian Empire. Micah called the people to see the threats—not only from invading nations but also from the corruption and moral decline festering within their own society. Yet alongside his warnings, Micah also proclaimed hope, pointing to a future of restoration and peace under the…
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With the tension in the family boiling over, Jacob is sent away under the guise of finding a wife, but in reality, he will be on the run for his life. Esau is waiting for the day of his father Isaac’s death, harbouring a fixed resolve to kill Jacob. Rebekah, gripped by the fear of losing both sons urgently convinces Isaac to send Jacob away to her family in Haran. But unlike Abraham’s servant who once travelled to fetch Rebekah with wealth and company, Jacob sets out with nothing. A seventy-seven-year-old man with no escort, no riches, and no inheritance,…
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In the parable of the Sower, Jesus spoke of four types of ground: the path, the rocky soil, the thorny soil, and the good soil. When explaining this parable, our focus often turns to the rocky and thorny soil, and by understanding these, we gain some insight into what good soil represents. Yet, we tend to overlook the seeds that fell along the path. This neglect is serious, for it increases believers’ ignorance about their responsibility. When God gave the Law, it emphasized commands of “do” and “don’t,” which often led people to fall into what they should not do.…
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After reminding his audience of the new freedom they had received in Christ, Paul cautioned them not to misuse it. He urged them to recognise that though they were called to be free, this freedom should not be used to gratify the desires of the flesh, but instead expressed through humble service to one another in love. And that is the very message of Christ, the lesson He imparted to His disciples during the final meal He shared with them. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”Galatians 5:14 (NIV) Loving Each…
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Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount, as recorded by Matthew, was nothing short of revolutionary. It challenged centuries of laws and traditions, as He sought to reveal the heart of God rather than mere blind adherence to laws. One of His most striking teachings—still difficult to grasp even today—was that harbouring anger towards our fellow beings is equivalent to committing murder. To this day, people debate and even argue over these words, yet few truly understand and apply what Jesus intended for His followers. You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and…
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Discipleship means following and learning from a particular teacher or teaching. When Jesus began His ministry, He did not choose His twelve disciples from the educated or elite class but from all walks of life. His purpose was to reveal His love and compassion to every segment of society—using people from among them as living examples of how His teachings could transform lives. This offers hope to all, assuring them that they can come to Jesus regardless of the sins or barriers that once separated them from God. Many aspire to become disciples of Jesus to reflect His majesty and glory.…
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In his letter to the congregation in Galatia, Paul urges them to grasp the freedom Christ has provided, reminding them that they are no longer bound by the slavery of sin or the burdens of the law. He illustrates this by comparing an heir to a vast inheritance with a slave: as long as the heir is underage and not yet of legal standing, he remains under guardians and trustees, no different from a servant, until the time appointed by his father. In the same way, before Christ, God’s people lived under the guardianship of the law, the prophets, priests,…
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Creation itself reveals the Creator, yet only a few truly recognise the Creator through what He has made. In the Bible, the Psalms often glorify God by reflecting on His mighty works in creation. Along with this psalm, Psalms 8 and 148 also focus on the beauty and power of His handiwork. Job, too, speaks with deep awareness about God’s creation. In the New Testament, Paul writes to the Romans that no one has an excuse to claim ignorance of God, for His creation makes Him known to every person on earth. Even in times of sickness or depression, pausing…
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There are countless fields of study, and people choose their reading material according to their needs. A science student, for instance, may focus on the topics in their syllabus, but to truly grasp the subject, they go beyond textbooks—reading research papers and investing extra effort to expand their knowledge. Others confine themselves to the prescribed material, relying on guides and model questions to get good grades, but in doing so, their understanding remains narrow. Some students avoid excessive reading altogether, yet they listen attentively to lectures, reflect deeply on the ideas presented, and adapt them to new situations. Whether through…
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In his letter to the Galatians Paul claims that they have been “bewitched” by those they held in high regard. They had lost sight of the central truth—the crucifixion of Christ. Paul reminds them: “Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified.” The death of Christ was not a hidden matter; it was vividly proclaimed to them. Their faith had begun with the clear vision of Christ crucified, yet they were now being pulled back into the grip of law and works. “So again I ask, does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you…
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Isaac was growing old, and his failing eyesight could scarcely distinguish the faces before him, though he recognised Esau more clearly than anyone else. Esau, the rugged hunter, the favoured son, the one who supplied his father with the meals he loved. Yet, while Esau’s wives were a continual source of grief to Rebekah, Isaac chose to overlook his son’s decisions, intent on bestowing the family blessing upon him. Rebekah might have reminded Isaac of what God had revealed to her, but often we press forward with our own stubborn will. “When Esau was forty years old, he married Judith……
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This psalm captures the essence of salvation in every way, reminding us to care for our souls just as we care for our bodies. Sadly, many ignore the soul altogether, and some do not even recognize its existence. It is only at death that people often say, “May the departed soul rest in peace,” a phrase said without true understanding. Paul spoke of the inner self being renewed even as the outer body withers away. When our bodies fall ill, we promptly seek treatment—but what about our souls, which silently suffer from neglect? Through the word of this Psalm, the…
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Two of the Synoptic Gospels, Mark and Luke, record the miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand with five loaves and two fish shortly after the disciples returned from their mission and reported their experiences to Him. In contrast, the Gospel of Matthew places this event immediately after Jesus hears of John the Baptist’s death. It is noteworthy that after John, Jesus Himself called the people to repent. By the grace of God we have been given a role to partake in God’s ministry, as such if we die or fail to cope, God is already doing it on His…
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Shortly after Paul’s first missionary journey to Galatia—a region in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) that he had evangelised (Acts 13–14)—false teachers infiltrated the young churches, claiming that Gentile believers must observe the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, to be fully accepted by God. This not only distorted the gospel of grace but also challenged Paul’s authority as a true apostle. In response, Paul wrote to the churches in Galatia (likely between AD 48 and 55), with two main purposes: first, to affirm that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone and not by works of the Law; and second, to assert…
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Almost twenty-five years had passed since the people of Israel had conquered the land, and they were now settled in the promise that God had given them. The battles had been fought, the territories secured, and the tribes east of the Jordan had returned to their homes. With their enemies subdued and their borders secure, they were experiencing rest from war and peace on every side. But what does it truly mean when the LORD gives His people rest? It is more than Him granting victory over enemies—it is a moment of surrender to His will. It is coming into…
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Some people drift away from God when they do not receive what they hoped for. This is often labeled as “backsliding” or “going back to square one.” However, such people may not truly be backsliders—because they never had genuine faith to begin with. They approached God seeking a miracle, healing, or blessing in hopes of building faith on those results. When nothing happened, they simply returned to their old ways, turning to every other possible source to fulfill their desires. If their faith never even sprouted, calling them “backsliders” or claiming they returned to disbelief is misleading. When we classify…
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The story of Isaac mirrors that of his father Abraham—of mistakes repeated but also of faith that endures. When a famine, similar to the one during Abraham’s time, ravaged the land, Isaac, like his father before him, moved toward Gerar in search of refuge. Yet here, God gave a direct command: The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live. – Genesis 26:2 (NIV) Egypt, though fertile, had always represented a place of compromise for God’s people. Abraham had gone there and faltered in faith, and…
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Many believers hold the common notion that we must somehow awaken God to hear our prayers, which is why people often organize long prayer meetings and even fast. King Solomon prayed with this very thought when he asked God to listen to the prayers of the people offered at the temple he had built. He said, “May your eyes be open to your servant’s plea and to the plea of your people Israel, and may you listen to them whenever they cry out to you.” (1 Kings 8:52). But the truth is, God’s eyes are always open, and nothing is hidden from…
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After the division of the land—both conquered and yet to be conquered—among the tribes of Israel, there were two special groups of cities set apart. A total of forty-eight cities were assigned to the Levites, the tribe that received no physical inheritance of land, for the LORD Himself was their portion. Out of these, six cities were designated as cities of refuge. These cities—Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan—were spread across Israel for accessibility. This system was meant to upheld justice, protected the innocent, and reflected God’s mercy. Then the Lord said to Joshua: “Tell the Israelites to designate…
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People recognize God in various ways—seeing Him as the Eternal One, Miracle Worker, Giver of Hope, Light of the World, Healer, Deliverer, and Sovereign Lord. In the same way, the Holy Spirit is known as the Comforter, the Deliverer, the source of hope for the hopeless, the One who pours out God’s love into our hearts, and the seal of our salvation. Yet, our focus on the Holy Spirit often centers primarily on His power. This emphasis may stem from Jesus’ words to His disciples: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be…
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A resolution is a firm decision or determination made to address and overcome something that seems complicated. Believers often make resolutions at the start of a new year, choosing to abandon unwanted habits and practices in hopes of bringing order to the chaos they face in daily life. However, what truly matters is not just making the resolution, but the determination to uphold it. This Psalm, traditionally attributed to David, might reflect such a resolution—born out of his personal or political struggles. It’s possible that David composed this Psalm during one of the three times he was anointed as king.…
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Centuries earlier, during Abraham’s time, a mysterious king named Melchizedek—king of Salem (later known as Jerusalem) and priest of God Most High—had blessed Abraham after his victory over a coalition of kings. Melchizedek’s name meant “king of righteousness,” and he appeared as a symbol of peace from Jerusalem. Years passed, and now, under Joshua’s leadership, Israel stood on the threshold of claiming that very region. Joshua had been chosen by God to execute His justice and lead the people into the land promised to their forefathers. The fall of Jericho and Ai had already shaken the land. Word spread swiftly…
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Many people believe that Jesus battled with the devil on the cross and emerged victorious. They also understand that, as God appointed Jesus to be the sin offering for us, our sins are forgiven—and therefore, we no longer have any obligation to deal with sin. Ironically, even though we think God has completely dealt with the problem of sin in our lives, we still continue to sin—even after knowing that our sins are forgiven. Why does this happen? If God has truly forgiven and even forgotten our sins, why do we still hold on to them? It’s because we tend…
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Our God is a living God, and He identifies Himself as the God of the living—not of the dead—because He is full of life and not preoccupied with the dead as humans often are. At one point, Jesus said to a disciple, “Let the dead bury their own dead” (Matthew 8:22). Though this may sound harsh to those who hold funeral rites in high regard, some religious leaders act even more severely toward their congregation. They insist that members must come to them for burial when a death occurs in their families, often resorting to threats when they don’t comply—ironically fulfilling the…
The Jordan Valley 