This Psalm opens with an exuberant call to all the earth to shout joyfully to God and sing the glory of His name. The psalmist invites everyone to witness and celebrate the wondrous works that God has done. The themes of praise and thanksgiving resonate throughout the psalm, emphasizing God’s mighty deeds and faithfulness. This Psalm is a compelling expression of gratitude and awe, encouraging believers to recount God’s faithfulness and to lift up songs of praise. It reflects on God’s sovereignty over creation and history, inviting all people to join in proclaiming His greatness and giving Him the honour He deserves.
Category: Bible Study
A comprehensive look at various Bible passages.
Jehu’s Reign of Terror – (2 Kings 9&10)
Jehu ruled over Israel for a substantial twenty-eight years, under the impression that he was serving God. However, it’s likely that he spent those twenty-eight years distancing himself from God by adopting worldly customs. We must avoid this pitfall and not squander our lives pretending to do God’s work while our hearts scarcely comprehend God’s will.
The True Calling
The notion of individuals devoting themselves entirely to God’s service has gained attention. Some claim to have abandoned their previous occupations to serve God unremittingly. However, the reality is not as straightforward. Even those dedicated to full-time ministry must seek financial support to sustain themselves. They often resort to minimal employment to further their theological studies.
Consequently, individuals who have supposedly committed their lives entirely to God find themselves preoccupied with stabilizing their livelihoods, leaving scant time for actual service. Furthermore, they are beset by family issues, opposition, and internal doubt regarding their decision. It is a common misconception to equate an individual’s capabilities and status as prerequisites for serving God, overlooking the fact that God can utilise anyone or anything to manifest His glory.
A Lamp for David – (2 Kings 8)
In ancient times, famines occurred frequently due to the persistent pursuit of evil by the people. While these periodic famines briefly softened their hearts, they resumed their previous ways after surviving due to God’s grace. In one such famine, Elisha was aware of God’s plan to send famine and warned the Shunammite woman (the one who had been blessed with a son), to leave her possessions and take her family to the land of the Philistines until the famine abated. Upon her return seven years later, she discovered that a neighbour had seized her land. During a famine, sustenance becomes invaluable, and any unoccupied land would naturally be highly coveted.
Fact Check
With the proliferation of various social media platforms, rumours and fake news have spread widely. Many well-intentioned individuals dedicate their time to fact check and only then enlighten the public with accurate information. Despite their best efforts, misinformation has deeply influenced the majority of people, rendering the process of fact-checking ineffective. Moreover, fact-checking is often carried out in accordance with societal norms, raising questions about the reliability of news delivered through various communication channels. Without a standardised code of conduct to assess the authenticity of news, it remains challenging to ascertain the truth.
A Disaster from the LORD – (2 Kings 6&7)
The fragile peace between Israel and Aram proved to be fleeting, as the king of Aram initiated a military campaign to seize control of Samaria by laying siege to the city. The siege was strategically planned to block the supply of food and water from the surrounding land, as farms and water sources were typically located outside the city gates. By surrounding the city with his military forces, the king of Aram made it impossible for the Israelites to access harvest or water sources.
The people of Samaria were left with only the food supplies within the city and the wells enclosed by the city walls. Thus, the king of Aram simply needed to wait out the starving Israelites until they eventually surrendered. However, the king of Israel failed to comprehend the severity of the famine or make any efforts to identify the root cause of the LORD’s anger until he was informed of a harrowing account by a woman.
The Reason for Delay
In today’s bustling world, people often struggle to find time to take care of themselves, leading to a reliance on automation to save time. Even in the food industry, convenience has taken precedence, making cooking quick and easy. Surprisingly, well-known restaurant chains depend on instant and frozen food items to satisfy their customers’ hunger.
These modern developments have led us to perceive traditional cooking methods as time-consuming, yet the shortcuts we take only create the illusion of saving time. Similarly, we are accustomed to seeking instant solutions, often expecting God to implement automation in solving the problems they encounter. However, it is important to remember that God has created everything according to His will and has automated the system to run within His predetermined time frame.
Elisha Turns the Other Cheek – (2 Kings 6)
Never before in Israel had there been a case where the opposing army, who had arrived seeking blood, were not only set free but were also sent away with full bellies from a banquet. By feeding and releasing the Arameans, Elisha demonstrated one of the earliest instances of practicing the principle preached by Jesus about turning the other cheek. Can we practice the same in our lives and let the glory be redirected to God in all our victories?
Good Things Of The House Of God – Psalm 65
Charles Spurgeon observed this about the uncommon pairing of Psalm and Song for this composition: “The Hebrew calls it a Shur and Mizmor”. This Psalm, while observed in a literary sense, is important to note for its significance. The initial portion of the Psalm follows the typical pattern of God using the Psalmist to prophesy the mysteries of His kingdom, while the second portion is a song of admiration for God, celebrating His wonderful and incomparable creations. When we are feeling spiritually and physically drained, God guides us to convey His message through us. Simultaneously, this Psalm serves as a reminder to contemplate the marvels of God’s creations, especially in times of distress or disillusionment caused by those around us.
The Cleansing of Naaman – (2 Kings 5)
The Israelites found themselves in a constant state of conflict with the Arameans, and in their latest encounter, the LORD granted the Arameans victory over their long-standing adversaries. Naaman, as the commander of the Arameans, was recognized for his role in orchestrating the battles that secured the Syrian empire’s triumph over their ancient foe. This elevated Naaman’s standing among his fellow countrymen and his king. Yet, unbeknownst to many, it was God who held ultimate control and was about to use Naaman as His witness in both nations.
A Protection From The Conspirers – Psalm 64
We live in a world full of deception, and when we fall victim to it, we seek redress. Every marketing company operates a customer care center to address the grievances of their customers. Governments have judicial systems in place to address the complaints of the common people. The police safeguard individuals from theft and protect their lives when they are in danger. Social activists work to empower the disenfranchised, enlighten them about their rights, and advocate on their behalf. However, despite these resources, some individuals choose not to seek help through these channels and continue to bemoan their plight, feeling unworthy of their place on this earth.
The Man of God – (2 Kings 4)
During one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history, neither kings of the northern nor southern kingdoms wanted to pursue the will of God, Elisha was chosen to carry the message of God to the masses. Yet, because his predecessor (Elijah) did not formally anoint him in the presence of his countrymen, there would have been apprehensions with regard to Elisha’s credentials as the man of God. However, the following events that revealed the power that God had bestowed upon Elisha, laid to rest all doubts about the calling of the prophet hailing from the small town of Abel Meholah.
The Last Hour
Humans have the ability to draw in life-giving breath through their nostrils without fully comprehending when they will exhale it. According to scripture, God breathed life into Adam’s nostrils, granting him life. The cycle of inhalation and exhalation will one day come to an end, with the scripture proclaiming that our breath will return to our Creator (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Furthermore, no one can predict the hour of their departure (Ecclesiastes 9:12). Even those on their deathbed, while aware that the end is near, cannot pinpoint the exact moment of their last breath. Although doctors may advise loved ones to prepare, many assume stability and depart, not knowing the exact hour of their end.
Conquering The Lies – Psalm 63
In this psalm, titled “A Psalm of David when he was in the wilderness of Judah,” David reflects on the time he spent as a fugitive living in the wilderness. Despite his eventual ascent to the throne, his experiences in the wilderness, including a period of exile due to Absalom’s rebellion, were instrumental in teaching him that the love of God surpasses all worldly pursuits. This serves as a timeless lesson, as many today are consumed by the pursuit of worldly pleasures, whereas David found solace in the wilderness, embracing the love of God.
The Harpist and the River of Blood – (2 Kings 3)
The Israelites and the Moabites shared a complex history, and yet a period of peace prevailed during Ahab’s reign. Mesha, the king of Moab, was granted permission to raise sheep for the kingdom in exchange for a tribute of a hundred thousand lambs and a hundred thousand rams’ wool. However, following Ahab’s death, Mesha, tired of the burden of the tribute, rebelled against Ahab’s son, Joram, the new king of Israel, exacerbating the animosity between the two nations.
Helping Others In Secret
It is a common phenomenon for individuals to assist others in order to enhance their public image and promote their businesses. Some people offer help with the intention of influencing others and cease their assistance if they are unable to exert this influence. Others help in the expectation of receiving something in return, such as…
Trust God – Love People – Psalm 62
Young individuals nowadays encounter considerable obstacles in forging their careers, perceiving the world as an intensely competitive environment. Professionals in the business sphere frequently employ diverse analogies to underscore the significance of investing resources such as money, skills, and time judiciously. Simultaneously, individuals from various backgrounds engage in fierce competition to obtain the latest technologies and enhance their standard of living. Nevertheless, it is crucial to reflect on the following: What is the origin of this culture of competition?
A Forceful Transmission – (2 Kings 1&2)
Elijah believed he was the sole prophet of God, yet as we see during his farewell tour, he had contemporaries. God’s work continued despite his weariness. Elisha was handpicked by God to replace Elijah with the latter tasked with anointing the former as his successor. However, there appears to have been reluctance on Elijah’s part to pass the baton to his protégé. How will we respond when God asks us to step aside to promote one of our protégés? Will we willingly submit to God’s will, or will our hesitance trigger a forceful transmission?
God Of Generations – Psalm 61
There are moments when we feel unheard because we do not receive the answers we yearn for. However, God hears and discerns our prayers before we even voice them, responding in His own time. In this Psalm, David articulates a sense of unmet requests and implores God to heed his prayer. It is imperative to exalt God above all else when presenting our grievances, instead of equating Him with mortal beings and sharing our concerns with both humans and God. It takes considerable time for individuals to realize the error of confiding their weaknesses in their fellow men. Unfortunately, at times, we constrain our relationship with Him, treating Him merely as an auxiliary to whom we delegate tasks. There are those who do not even consider whether their prayers are acknowledged or overlooked, departing as soon as they have presented their supplications from His presence.
An Unholy Alliance – (1 Kings 22)
Jehoshaphat had aligned himself with the king of Israel and was even willing to pledge his loyalty when they went to war with the king of Aram. Like his father Asa, Jehoshaphat did everything right in the eyes of the LORD. He even sent his officials and Levites to the towns of Judah to educate them about the Torah. During his reign, the fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms surrounding Judah and none of them dared mount an attack against them. Even the Philistines who were Israel’s oldest foe, brought gifts such as gold and silver as tribute. Yet, in aligning himself with Ahab, he had acted foolishly by not consulting God.
Carry Each Other’s Burdens
Paul emphasized in his letter to the Galatians the importance of supporting one another to fulfil the teachings of our Lord. This raises the question of whether it is necessary for us to assist others, or if we have the capability to bear the burdens of others. Additionally, considering that Jesus has already shouldered the burdens of all individuals through His sacrifice on the cross, is it appropriate for us to do so as well? Jesus instructed His followers to carry their own crosses and walk in His footsteps, reinforcing this notion by remarking that each day presents enough challenges of its own. Given these teachings, what exactly does it mean to carry one another’s burden?
Turning To God – Psalm 60
Written during his battles against Aram Naharaim and Aram Zobah, as well as Joab’s successful campaign, David’s cry for help resulted in the defeat of twelve thousand Edomites in the Valley of Salt. David initiated this Psalm by acknowledging that God had rejected them, drawing a parallel to King Ahab’s treatment of the prophet Elijah….
The Pen is Mightier than the Sword- (1 Kings 21)
The king desired the vineyard of his neighbour, Naboth, for use as his vegetable garden. In return, he proposed offering Naboth a vineyard of superior worth in a different location or providing payment for the vineyard. The king was expanding his palace compound, and typically such requests would have been granted by the commoners in exchange for a price exceeding the fair market value of the land.
The Lord Does Not Delay His Promise
When we confide in those who do not know or follow God, they may feel overwhelmed, assuming we seek their support and advice to overcome our distressing circumstances. As a result, the varied suggestions from those we involve in our problems contradict each other, adding to our torment. It is as if we easily ignite a fire in the forest, but struggle to extinguish it. Similarly, we inflate our problems within ourselves, and when they spiral out of control, we become perplexed and blame God for His perceived delay in fulfilling His promises.
The God of the Hills and the Valleys – (1 Kings 20)
One day, the king of Aram, Ben-Hadad, supported by a coalition of thirty-two rulers, marshalled his entire military force and laid siege to Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom. Ahab found himself in a position of relative powerlessness in the face of the formidable army assembled by the Aramean ruler. Ben-Hadad dispatched emissaries to Ahab, demanding that all of Ahab’s possessions, including his wealth, the best of his wives and his children, be surrendered and recognized as the rightful property of Ben-Hadad. Ahab was left with no recourse but to comply, and he communicated to the Aramean king accordingly.
God Reveals The Hearts Of Our Enemies – Psalm 59
David fervently implored God to rescue him from his adversaries once he comprehended the evil intentions of Saul and his commanders. Expressing his dismay at their unjust actions, David highlighted his unwavering loyalty to Saul and his household, as well as his continuous efforts to combat the enemies of God’s people. Rather than merely serving Saul, David devoted himself to serving God by vanquishing those who sought to defame His name. David acknowledged his inability to comprehend the rationale behind their behaviour, yet instead of questioning God, he entreated Him to intervene, irrespective of the cause.
On the Run – (1 Kings 19)
After the showdown at Mount Carmel, Elijah was riding the high of having disposed of the prophets of baal from the country. So it came as a shock to him that even after witnessing the miraculous downpour that ended the famine, the hearts of the Israelites still did not turn towards God. To make matters worse, Ahab had informed Jezebel about how Elijah had slaughtered the priests of her father’s nation. The jilted queen vowed to remove the constant thorn, that was Elijah, by having him killed in the same manner as he killed the prophets of baal.
Do Not Grieve The Holy Spirit
The primary responsibility of the Holy Spirit is to introduce the Redeemer, Jesus, to all people on Earth. The Holy Spirit acquaints us with Jesus, who rescued us from the grasp of sin and saved us from eternal death. Then, the Spirit enables us to have faith in all that God has done to redeem us. Once this knowledge is imparted, the Spirit of God Himself dwells within us as a guardian of our salvation, to present us blameless in the presence of the Holy God, our Heavenly Father.
The Showdown at Mount Carmel – (1 Kings 18)
The entire land was gripped by a severe famine that persisted for nearly three years. It was not until the third year that the word of the LORD came to Elijah, instructing him to emerge from hiding and present himself to King Ahab. The famine had reached such devastating levels that Ahab had assigned a palace administrator to aid in rationing the food stock. Unbeknownst to the king, his palace administrator, Obadiah, was a steadfast worshipper of the LORD, providing sanctuary to the prophets whom his mistress Jezebel sought to eliminate. One day, Ahab called upon Obadiah to assess the land and locate areas with sufficient remaining grass to sustain the royal horses, warning that without such provisions, the animals would face slaughter.
King of Kings – Psalm 58
The Psalm exclusively discusses the atrocities committed by the rulers of the nations and calls upon God to intervene and punish them mercilessly for their treacherous acts. This theme strongly resonates with the modern world, where even in democratic countries, leaders chosen by the people often govern based on the desires of their majority supporters. In this context, believers seek God’s intervention to hold their leaders accountable and ensure fair treatment of the minority populations.
The Man of God from Tishbe – (1 Kings 17)
Israel was devoid of a moral compass during the corrupt reign of king Ahab. So one day, God sent the prophet Elijah from Tishbe to Ahab’s court with His word warning, that there would be no rainfall until they changed their ways. This formidable drought led to a widespread famine in the region. Yet the occurrence of the drought exclusively in the northern kingdom (which had turned away from God and embraced Baal as their deity) served a purpose.
Is It Possible To Become Like Jesus?
Becoming like Jesus is an immensely challenging task for many individuals. Some individuals even consider the desire to become like Jesus as blasphemy, as they fail to comprehend the entirety of God’s love and instead approach Him with fear. Without experiencing His unconditional love, it becomes difficult for one to grasp the true intentions of God. Comparing the incredible love of God to the momentary and conditional love of people, many fail to fathom the depth and breadth of God’s love. Furthermore, the concept of becoming like Jesus may not even register in the minds of some people.
The Kings of the World – (1 Kings 15 & 16)
The kingdoms of Judah and Israel witnessed the rise and fall of monarchs, most of whom did not honour Yahweh. These kings were meant to reverse the actions of the previous rulers, but instead, they perpetuated their mistakes. Both kingdoms descended into a spiral of decline, with no single family maintaining the throne of Israel or Judah. Assassinations, coups, and betrayals became common occurrences. Amidst this chaos, the only constant was God’s unwavering love for His people and His steadfast advancement of His plan for their redemption.
Resist The Devil And Serve God
The Bible instructs us to resist the devil, yet many people struggle with this task. Resistance marks the initial stage of our temptations, while the subsequent struggle occurs when we fail to resist initially. In today’s world, it seems that almost everyone is grappling with the devil and his schemes. Are we fully conscious of our weaknesses that allow the devil to gain entry? Furthermore, in his letter to the Ephesians, Paul admonishes us not to provide a foothold for the devil. Once again, do we understand the areas in which we are vulnerable to falling prey to the devil’s tricks? The Bible urges us to be aware of the devil’s strategies so that we may overcome them.
Awake, My Soul – Psalm 57
If we consider the teachings from the Psalms of David, we discern the gravity of consistently tending to our soul. While many prioritize the desires of the flesh, David, in his Psalms, underscores the significance of caring for one’s soul. This is crucial because when we indulge our wrongful fleshly desires, knowingly or inadvertently, it inflicts harm upon our souls. Without prompt attention, our souls may wither. As the soul becomes dormant, our impure thoughts can overpower us, resulting in a significant deterioration of our spiritual well-being. Judas failed to tend to his soul when his greed for money smothered it, ultimately leading him to betray his Saviour.
Two Kingdoms at War with God – (1 Kings 14)
The reigns of both the kings of Israel and Judah were marked by God’s disapproval of their governance. After the demise of Solomon, both the monarchs of Israel and Judah engaged in malfeasance that brought upon them the wrath of God. Jeroboam, the ruler of the northern kingdom, ignored countless warnings from the LORD and carried on in his evil ways. Jeroboam lost his son because of his stubbornness to change from his evil ways. While Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, brought idol worship and other detestable practices of the pagan world to Judah. In doing so, he brought an end to Solomon’s dynasty as God tore away the kingdom of Judah from their hands.
Have Prophecies Ceased
In the book of Revelation in the Bible, prophecies concerning the Kingdom of God and His Second Coming are detailed. Being the final book of the Bible, the prophecies are brought to a conclusion. The lives of believers serve as a continuation of the New Testament, the successive pages of the book of Acts. Just as God expected the Jews to spread His love, He now expects His believers to extend His love to all people. Thus, it is crucial for believers to align themselves with God to comprehend His plans well in advance. Whenever believers fall short in this aspect, it seems that the prophecies come to a halt.
I Will Trust God When I Am Afraid – Psalm 56
David likely internalized this Psalm during his captivity by the Philistines in Gath. The circumstances may have prevented him from physically recording the Psalm at that time, but he later had the opportunity to do so. David found himself isolated in the court of Achish, the king of Gath. Despite seeking refuge, the situation took a turn as word spread of David’s triumphs against the Philistine army, altering the dynamics within the court.
The Lion, The Donkey and The Lying Prophet – (1 Kings 13)
To secure his throne, Jeroboam strategically built two key temples in his kingdom, one in the northernmost region of Dan and the other at Bethel which was bordered by the southern kingdom of Judah. He created rival holy places all over his kingdom, crafted golden calves as idols, established new festivals and even appointed non-Levitical priests. When he tried to replicate the consecration of the temple, God did not send His presence but sent a man from Judah to warn him to forego his evil ways.
Self Pity – A Scheme of Our Adversary
Identifying “Self Pity” within ourselves is challenging because we often perceive it as a justified act. Self-pity conceals itself behind the facade of spirituality and tempts us with superficial religious practices such as listening to spiritual songs, watching worship services, reading the Bible out of habit, depending on other’s prayers for healing, praising God by reading out from books of “Thousand Praises” compiled by a publishing house and reciting prayers without true conviction. Despite these spiritual disguises, one may struggle to recognize the presence of the sin of “self-pity” within them. These spiritual practices give them the satisfaction that they are pious and their acts are just. While many sins manifest when we observe them in the lives of others, “self-pity” cannot be easily discerned in this manner; instead, it tends to intensify in such situations.
A Breach Of Trust – Psalm 55
Many of us can relate to this Psalm, as we too have experienced the pain of being hurt by the actions of friends and family we trusted. Scholars suggest that this Psalm was compiled during Absalom’s rebellion, with David’s trusted counsellor Ahithophel being involved. However, David’s plea to God to deal with his enemies may not necessarily be directly related to Absalom. David did not mention anyone by name, so it can be understood as a universal experience of facing betrayal from those we trust.
A Nation Divided – (1 Kings 12)
After the passing of King Solomon, his son Rehoboam ascended to the throne of Israel, inheriting the immense responsibility and authority bestowed upon him. To coronate their new monarch, all of Israel assembled at Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, the place where they had renewed their covenant with God after entering the promised land. Unbeknownst to the king-elect, the people of Israel wanted to renegotiate the terms of another covenant, the one they had formed with his grandfather David.
Everyday is Special In Christ
We observe numerous festivals, designating certain days as special and others as inauspicious. The number thirteen is commonly regarded as unlucky. Our timekeeping is based on the movements of the Earth and planets, as well as the positions of the sun, moon, and stars. It is crucial to acknowledge the brevity of our lives, during which we often eschew days on the calendar due to the fear of misfortune. How many days, then, remain for us to relish this existence? Within this fleeting lifetime, we allocate a significant portion to anxiety and trepidation, yearning to escape. To transcend this tumultuous state, it is imperative to comprehend the ways of the Creator. Through this understanding, we can revel in every fleeting moment on this earthly planet as if it were a glimpse of paradise.
Turning Friends to Foe – Psalm 54
During the period in which this Psalm of David was composed, the Ziphites approached Saul, questioning, “Is not David hiding among us?” It is noteworthy that the Ziphites, who were descendants of Judah like David, ought to have been his allies, yet they betrayed him. The allocation of our tribal affiliation and lineage is completely orchestrated by God, a reality often overlooked as we are shaped by our surroundings and develop strong emotional ties to our kinsfolk. Even distant relatives hold significant sway, but when power and favour are at stake, they are quick to abandon us and align with those in authority. David, despite being a mere fugitive, found himself unsupported by those he had relied upon, as they sought to deliver him into the hands of Saul, the reigning monarch at that time.
The LORD Raises Up Adversaries for Solomon – (1 Kings 11)
The downfall of Solomon as attributed by the authors of the Book of Kings seemed to be his love for foreign women. In order to maintain strategic ties with the neighbouring countries and to have control of the crucial trade routes, Solomon intermarried with the daughters of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians and Hittites all the tribes they were told to stay away from by God. This after he had already entered into relations with the king of Egypt by marrying his daughter. A country that enslaved his people and from whom the LORD freed his people in the most wondrous of ways. He had found a way to bring Israel back to the days of Egyptian influence.
A True Friend
One of the most renowned proverbs in Spanish asserts, “dime con quién andas, y te diré quién eres”, which translates to “tell me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are”. This age-old Spanish saying conveys the idea that a person’s character and actions can be inferred from the company they keep. Friends play a pivotal role in our social lives, contributing significantly to our achievements. Oftentimes, friends share similar mindsets, societal standing, and interests. However, there are also individuals who seek friendship primarily to alleviate their loneliness, leading them to form associations with unsuitable companions. Some people cultivate friendships to bolster their own status and garner assistance, often without reciprocating the support they receive. We can never know who is genuinely our friend and who is simply with us to derive something.
At Liberty To Deny God- Psalm 53
The Psalmist expresses concern about atheists who deny the existence of God, as well as agnostics who choose not to engage with this topic. Neither the believers who claim the existence of God nor the non-believers who reject it can conclusively prove their positions. While the Psalmist attributes the corruption and vileness of people to their lack of belief, it is worth considering the hypocrisy of those who profess belief in God yet exhibit corrupt and immoral behavior. This suggests that only the true belief in the existence of God should naturally keep individuals away from corruption and sin.
Solomon’s Kingdom – (1 Kings 9 & 10)
Solomon displayed his wealth for the world to see and used his wisdom to garner the affection of even the most sceptic visiting dignitaries. However, when another king (Hezekiah) would do the same he was punished by God. Nevertheless, Solomon was allowed to gain fame for something God had given to him. Solomon was at peace with the entire world around him, probably because he had so willingly adopted their practices and married half the princesses of the pagan world. Solomon indeed attracted people because of his wisdom but they merely wanted to see the grandeur of his kingdom.
Is Our Spiritual Life in a Rut?
With the rapid growth of the digital world, it has become necessary for us to periodically update the electronic gadgets we use. Over time, these gadgets become obsolete, prompting individuals to purchase the latest versions to maintain their status or the requirements of their jobs. The development of software has played a significant role in driving this need for frequent changes. Cell phone manufacturers diligently keep their customers informed about new versions, ensuring they stay updated with technological advancements.
Ironically, we often neglect to apply this same principle in our spiritual lives, despite being granted new grace each morning. Let us take a moment to reflect on the factors that prevent us from equipping ourselves with these spiritual updates.
A Temple for the Name of the LORD – (1 Kings 8)
As the construction of the temple concluded, Solomon summoned the elders of Israel and the tribes’ leaders to bring up the ark of the LORD from Zion to Mount Moriah. The city was already in a celebratory mood as the festival of the Tabernacle was upon them. Solomon saw this as an opportunity to transport the ark to the temple he had built for the name of the LORD.
True Generosity
The holiday season is upon us, a time when people reflect on the year gone by and look forward to the new year. People are especially generous during this time of the year with many taking some time off from work to spend time with family members. Some volunteer at their local homeless shelter or donate their excess belongings to charities such as Goodwill. Some spend the holiday season preparing for the local church activities like carols and the nativity play. Mankind’s generosity knows no bounds during the holiday season but come January all is forgotten. In the hustle and bustle of people returning to their routines, people get over their ‘holiday spirit’ almost instantaneously.
A Christmas With Our Heavenly Father!
The Scriptures state that even before the creation of this world, God predestined the sacrifice of His only Son to save all people from eternal death. “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves” (Ephesians 4:6). This passage reveals that God, driven by His pleasure and will, orchestrated these events. As we celebrate Christmas with great joy and enthusiasm, it is important to set aside those who have commercialised this festival and focus on ourselves, who partake in its rituals.
The Temple and the Palace – (1 Kings 5, 6 & 7)
Solomon’s reign as king over Israel, though started with bloodshed, experienced the longest peacetime in Israel. Nearly half of his reign of forty years was spent in constructing two separate buildings, one was the temple of the LORD and the other the king’s palace. Solomon wanted to accomplish all of his father’s desires. He had…
The Sin Exposed – Psalm 52
Being a man close to the heart of God, David suddenly made a drastic decision and became afraid to reveal his true situation to the priest Ahimelek. He feared that if Ahimelek learned about the broken relationship between him and King Saul, the priest would refuse to help him. Fueled by this fear, David resorted to deception in front of Ahimelek. In Isaiah 28, God warns us that those who seek refuge in lies are essentially making a pact with death. Sadly, David had indeed made such a pact, resulting in the deaths of the entire families and inhabitants of the priestly town of Nob. Unaware of his own grave mistake, David witnessed the consequences in the form of Doeg, who remained loyal to his master and helped Saul annihilate the priests who helped his foe, David.
Solomon’s Wisdom (1 Kings 3 & 4)
Solomon had mixed pagan cultures into his worship, perhaps, in an attempt to follow the traditions of his many wives. In the book of Deuteronomy (chapter 17), Moses spoke about a day when Israel would have its own king. He had warned that the king of Israel should exhibit a stark difference in governance from the rulers of the surrounding kingdom. The king should not seek to make himself wealthy or accumulate wives as trophies. The king should also never return to Egypt, the land that held the Israelites captive for many years. These among others were key for Israel and their leaders, to set themselves apart from the other nations, however, Solomon did not adhere to any of Moses’ instructions.
Restoration Of Redemption – Psalm 51
Psalms 32 and 51 are frequently used by believers as a framework for expressing their contrition and confessing their sins. Many individuals turn to these Psalms to engage in penitence. It is important to note that only those who have been cleansed by the purifying blood of Jesus can truly embrace this template, whereas those who have not experienced the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood are unable to avail themselves of this opportunity.
Solomon Establishes his Throne (1 Kings 2)
David was on his deathbed when Solomon became the king of Israel. However, before handing the reins over to Solomon, David had a few words of advice and caution that he wanted to pass on to his son. He asked Solomon to “observe what the LORD requires” and to walk in His ways keeping His…
Our Hidden Sins
In the case of Peter, there existed a doubt regarding the sacrificial death of Jesus, which caused him to experience a fear of being implicated by the Roman government alongside Jesus. This doubt remained hidden within his subconscious, unbeknownst to him, and it was because of this disbelief that he declared his commitment to follow Jesus until death. Jesus, in His wisdom, brought to light Peter’s concealed sin by revealing the impending transgression he was about to commit. Jesus consistently warns us about our hidden sins, although we often fail to comprehend His message due to our inability to recognize and acknowledge these particular sins that lie dormant and concealed, even from our own perception and knowledge. Unfortunately, it is only when these sins come to fruition that we truly become aware of them. At that moment, the decision to turn back to God becomes a blessing.
A Struggle for Power (1 Kings 1)
Written probably during the days of Israel’s Babylonian exile, the Book of Kings would have served as a reminiscent account of their homeland for the people in captivity. While the author of the book is unknown, some believe that it might be the contemporary prophets of each king who recorded the events described in this book. There seems to be a disconnect from the previous book of Samuel, as there are huge chunks of unaccounted periods from David’s forty-year reign. While in the Book of Samuel, David was in his prime and adding valiant men to his collection of mighty warriors, the Book of Kings, starts with David on his deathbed.
The Purpose of Jesus in Our Lives
When introducing Jesus to the world, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of His identity. Often, we tend to portray Jesus solely as a miracle worker or healer, inadvertently limiting His true purpose and significance. This narrow perception not only restricts His immense power and impact but also disappoints those who seek blessings or healing from Him, as they may not always receive them. It is essential to grasp the deeper essence of Jesus’ presence on Earth, rather than simply view Him as a bestower of miracles or an earthly conqueror. Jesus Himself posed the question to His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15), urging us to reflect on His true identity and purpose.
Back to Eden (Revelation 21 & 22)
In his final vision, John saw a new heaven and the earth emerge as the old ones had hidden themselves from the presence of God (Revelation 20:11). Along with the former heavens and the earth, the sea too had no purpose as evil can no longer be found after God’s Final Judgement. The sea is…
Thank Offerings Honour God – Psalm 50
This Psalm, attributed to the musician Asaph, emphasizes the idea that engaging in the service of God enables personal growth and a deeper understanding of His holiness. This musician, who previously composed music for David’s verses, now conveys a message about God’s ways, illustrating that being solely a musician does not limit one’s capacity to…
The Final Judgement (Revelation 19 & 20)
In his penultimate series of visions, John saw the heavens open up, and from it, there emerged a white horse carrying the Rider. While the name of this Rider is not known to anyone, He is described by His qualities, such as being faithful and true. The vision of the Rider on a white warhorse…
The Fall of Babylon (Revelation 17 & 18)
Located on the banks of the River Euphrates, the great city of Babylon was a powerful and influential city in ancient Mesopotamia. During its prime, the city not only served as a capital for several empires but also as the focal point for all commerce and trade in that region. In the Bible, Babylon is…
Our Role In Forgiving Others
According to the law of God, the consequence of sin is death, which results in eternal damnation for all souls. However, out of His boundless love, God made a decision to fulfill His law in order to rescue us from this fate. It is important to note that God did not manipulate or nullify His…
The Wrath of God (Revelation 15 & 16)
In only two prior instances was the wrath of God revealed to us by the biblical authors, albeit on a limited scale. The first occurrence took place during the days of Noah when God unleashed a catastrophic flood, and the second unfolded with the destruction of the twin cities of Sodom and Gomorrah through a deluge of sulfur. As John’s visions were getting closer to the final Day of the Lord, he witnessed the seven last plagues that would complete the cycle of God’s wrath for all creation.
Why Should I Fear? – Psalm 49
The Sons of Korah passionately extolled the greatness of God in their awe-inspiring Psalm 48. In this Psalm, they implored the people to embrace a firm understanding of God’s boundless love and unwavering grace. Humanity often succumbs to the temptation of placing their trust in worldly treasures, forsaking the life-giving power of our heavenly Father….
The Harvest of the Earth is Ripe (Revelation 14)
Mount Zion, which the author of the Book of Hebrews terms as the city of the Living God, is the setting for John’s vision of the Lamb and His 144,000 followers. Zion was the Mount on which the Jebusites built their city. The desire for the strategic upper hand that this city on a hill…
Our First Fruits
In the Old Testament, bringing first fruits to the Lord was a practice that symbolized gratitude, acknowledgement and trust in God’s provision. It was a way for individuals to offer the first and best of their harvest or income as an act of thanksgiving. By giving the first fruits, people recognized God’s sovereignty over all…
You Will Do Greater Things Than These – John 14:12
It is often the aspiration of a father to elevate his children beyond his own standing. Even parents lacking formal education do not wish for their children to remain illiterate, so they make great efforts to enrol them in reputable schools to ensure their literacy. Similarly, educated individuals consistently strive to provide their children with…
The Trinity (Revelation 13)
In his attempts to wage war against the offspring of the woman, the dragon stood at the shore of the sea and unleashed two beasts upon them. The first one emerged from the sea, while the second one arose from the earth. The Creator of the heavens, the earth, and the sea had seemingly granted temporary authority to the dragon to wage war on His people. The dragon took full advantage of his authority and tormented the children of God for a short period of time, forcing everyone to leave God and follow the trinity of evil which tried to emulate His power.
City Of The Lord – Psalm 48
The psalm at hand, attributed to the sons of Korah, offers a unique perspective within the collection of Psalms. While typically characterized by petitions and acknowledgements of God’s response to prayers, this particular psalm deviates in its focus. From the very beginning, it is dedicated to glorifying the Almighty, earning it the title of “A…
The Woman and the dragon (Revelation 12)
John witnesses a great struggle between a woman and a red dragon, which, on paper, would be a mismatch by any standards. However, this struggle originates from the very first pages of the Bible when another encounter between a woman and a dragon resulted in the fall of mankind. Though once in alliance, the woman…
Unless A Kernel Of Wheat Dies – John 12:24
In Scripture, Jesus encourages His followers to draw nearer to His Father. He graciously extends His Sonship to all, so that we may address the Almighty God as our Abba, our Father. God sent His Son to be our elder brother, sharing with us all that He knows about His Father and His glorious Kingdom….
Olive Trees and Lampstands (Revelation 11)
When was the last time you used your yellow tape measure? Probably when you were planning to remodel a part of your house or build an annexe like a tool shed or garage. In his final vision before the sounding of the seventh trumpet, John was given a reed like a measuring rod and was told to measure the temple of God and the altar, with its worshipers. God is building His temple on the rock that is made up of His people, and is asking John to measure the length and breadth of this new establishment.
John was asked to exclude measuring the outer courts of the temple, for it had been given to the unbelievers who would trample on the holy city for three and a half years. God is separating His people from the unrepentant generations. The time for harvest is drawing near and the weeds need to be separated from the wheat (Matthew 13:24-29).
We Are His Sacred Temple
In the contemporary era, edifices of structural significance such as Cathedrals are commonly recognized as sacred places where the presence of God prevails. During ancient times, the Temple held a paramount status amongst the Jewish community, representing the most sacred sanctuary where individuals would undergo purification rituals before entering its Holy place. Notably, Solomon’s Temple…
The Bittersweet Scroll (Revelation 10)
In a spy movie, when the protagonist is given a new mission, they are told to memorize the instructions and destroy the note by eating it. When the angel gave John the little scroll, he was told to not only swallow its contents but prophecy it to the masses. Ezekiel had a similar experience when he was asked to eat the scroll given to him by God (Ezekiel 3:3). By eating the scroll, John accepted his mission and would prophesy about many peoples, nations, languages and kings.
God Has Ascended – Psalm 47
When the Psalmist was overwhelmed after witnessing a king’s epic victory, it inspired him to write this song of Praise. Now, there could be a bunch of theories about who this king was, but one thing is for sure – this Psalm is all about the ultimate ruler, the King of kings. It kicks off…
The Seventh Seal (Revelation 8 & 9)
The destruction that followed after the first four trumpets were sounded, seems to be a partial reversal of the creation. The trees and grass are burned up and a fiery mountain is doused in a sea bringing together land and sea. The rivers of the earth that were to sustain and nurture life now harboured bitter death. And when a third of the earth lost its source of light, the very first day of creation is undone. In many ways, the events revealed to John are taking us back to the Garden and eventually will lead to God granting Adam (Mankind) the right to eat from the Tree of Life.
The lion symbolizes strength, majesty, and dominion – characteristics befitting the King of kings. On the other hand, the lamb denotes meekness, humility, and a position much lower within the natural order.
Yet, it is through this apparent paradox that the true depth of Jesus’ redemptive mission is revealed. His conquest was not achieved by military victory but through His sacrificial offering. Just as lions are renowned for their courage, the Lion of Judah displayed unmatched bravery in willingly assuming the form of a humble lamb.
In His act of humbling Himself and serving humanity, Jesus rightfully claimed the privilege to take hold of the sacred scroll. His unique ability to handle and comprehend its contents stems from His role as the slain Lamb – the one who, through His ultimate sacrifice, has procured our salvation.
A Scene Of Desolation And Ruin – Psalm 46
When contemplating the character of God, we often associate it with blessings, abundance, and prosperity. Conversely, we tend to associate destitution and suffering with darkness, malevolent forces, or even the concept of evil. It is rare for anyone to link the Creator with destruction. Consequently, when faced with unexpected catastrophes, our pursuit of happiness is…
The Seal of the Living God (Revelation 7)
After the six seals were opened by the Lamb, John saw another vision which perhaps was a precursor to the events that occurred at the opening of the seals. He saw four angels standing at the corners of the earth, preventing any of the four winds from harming the land. The four winds of the earth, coming from each direction, have been symbolic of God’s judgment (Jeremiah 49:36) and thus may be alluding to the wave of destruction that was about to be unleashed by the four horsemen. The four angels were holding back the four winds of destruction until the time the Seal of the Living God is put on the forehead of the LORD’s anointed.
The lion symbolizes strength, majesty, and dominion – characteristics befitting the King of kings. On the other hand, the lamb denotes meekness, humility, and a position much lower within the natural order.
Yet, it is through this apparent paradox that the true depth of Jesus’ redemptive mission is revealed. His conquest was not achieved by military victory but through His sacrificial offering. Just as lions are renowned for their courage, the Lion of Judah displayed unmatched bravery in willingly assuming the form of a humble lamb.
In His act of humbling Himself and serving humanity, Jesus rightfully claimed the privilege to take hold of the sacred scroll. His unique ability to handle and comprehend its contents stems from His role as the slain Lamb – the one who, through His ultimate sacrifice, has procured our salvation.
Defusing The Power Of Sin
Sin and the devil are often conflated, but they are separate concepts. In essence, sin refers to the act of succumbing to our wicked desires and transgressing against the will of God. On the other hand, the devil preys upon those who engage in sinful behaviour. Regrettably, people frequently attribute their own actions against God,…
A Celestial Wedding Song – Psalm 45
The King mentioned in this Psalm does not align with any historical Israelite monarchy. However, the references to gifts from Tyre establish a connection between Solomon and the Psalm, as Hiram, the King of Tyre, provided materials for Solomon’s temple. With this in mind, some scholars associate this Psalm with Solomon’s wedding to an Egyptian…
The First Six Seals (Revelation 6)
John eagerly observed as the Lamb took the scroll from God’s hands, and proceeded to open the seals, one by one. With each seal that was opened, a series of extraordinary events would follow, bringing with it dire consequences upon the people of the earth.
The lion symbolizes strength, majesty, and dominion – characteristics befitting the King of kings. On the other hand, the lamb denotes meekness, humility, and a position much lower within the natural order.
Yet, it is through this apparent paradox that the true depth of Jesus’ redemptive mission is revealed. His conquest was not achieved by military victory but through His sacrificial offering. Just as lions are renowned for their courage, the Lion of Judah displayed unmatched bravery in willingly assuming the form of a humble lamb.
In His act of humbling Himself and serving humanity, Jesus rightfully claimed the privilege to take hold of the sacred scroll. His unique ability to handle and comprehend its contents stems from His role as the slain Lamb – the one who, through His ultimate sacrifice, has procured our salvation.
The Last Will Be The First
The statement, “The last will be the first”, appears to be incongruous with societal norms when viewed from the perspective of renowned scholars. In today’s fiercely competitive world, striving to be the foremost in all endeavours has become ingrained in the minds of many. To understand the meaning of last becoming first, it is essential…
The Lamb who was Slain (Revelation 5)
The slain Lamb approached the One seated on the throne and took the scroll from His right hand. Jesus is initially introduced by one of the elders as the Lion of the tribe of Judah. However, as John turned to look at Him, he instead saw a wounded Lamb. Is Jesus an all-conquering lion, or is He a slain lamb?
The lion symbolizes strength, majesty, and dominion – characteristics befitting the King of kings. On the other hand, the lamb denotes meekness, humility, and a position much lower within the natural order.
Yet, it is through this apparent paradox that the true depth of Jesus’ redemptive mission is revealed. His conquest was not achieved by military victory but through His sacrificial offering. Just as lions are renowned for their courage, the Lion of Judah displayed unmatched bravery in willingly assuming the form of a humble lamb.
In His act of humbling Himself and serving humanity, Jesus rightfully claimed the privilege to take hold of the sacred scroll. His unique ability to handle and comprehend its contents stems from His role as the slain Lamb – the one who, through His ultimate sacrifice, has procured our salvation.
Salvation is for Everyone
The teachings of the Bible remind us of our inherent humanity and the imperfections we all possess. Scripture emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our shortcomings and receiving forgiveness through the grace of God. One notable parable involves a Pharisee and a tax collector, illustrating the humility and repentance necessary for spiritual growth. The apostle John…
Perpetuating The Legacy Of God – Psalm 44
God’s love remains constant and eternal, unaffected by our shortcomings. However, it is crucial for us to pass on this everlasting love to future generations and ensure that they regard it as a valuable inheritance. In ancient times, the love of God was faithfully transmitted from one generation to another, serving as a source of…
The Throne Room (Revelation 4)
Filled with anticipation, as he eavesdropped on the captivating conversation between Jesus and the seven angels, John suddenly noticed a door standing wide open before him. At that moment, a voice, akin to the melodious sound of a trumpet, gently beckoned him, saying, come up and witness the marvellous events that are yet to unfold. John entered into a wondrous spiritual realm, where his eyes beheld a majestic throne, adorned by the presence of an indescribable being.
A Philanthropist Saved By Grace
Mother Teresa’s impact on society was significant. As a religious icon and philanthropist, she dedicated her life to caring for the poor in Calcutta, India. Despite her kindness and compassion, she was not afraid to take a stand for what she believed was right. While philanthropists like Mother Teresa express God’s love to the millions of underprivileged individuals, many fail to grasp the love of God that has saved them in the first place. Instead, they view these philanthropists as role models for their own personal satisfaction and think that salvation can be attained through good deeds.
The Pilgrim’s Progress – Psalm 43
Psalm 43 is considered a continuation of Psalm 42 as it explores similar themes and uses a common chorus. However, unlike the preceding hymn, this Psalm does not have a note about the writer. It addresses the challenges faced by individuals who genuinely follow God but differ from the traditional religious practices of their peers….
The Letters: Part III (Philadelphia & Laodicea)
The key to the house of David was entrusted to the steward, serving as a means to access and unlock every door and gate within the palace. It was most likely made of bronze and possessed a significant size, requiring it to be worn around the steward’s neck. The key symbolizes the authority of the steward to make authoritative decisions in the best interest of the king, signifying the steward’s elevated status. The palace of David held such immense significance that the Israelites would have regarded it with even greater reverence than heaven itself.
Where Is Your God? – Psalm 42
Psalm 42 represents the introductory Psalm of the second book of the Psalms, which was co-authored by the sons of Korah. Despite the rebellion of Korah and his fellow leaders against the authority of Moses and Aaron, resulting in their demise, the lineage of Korah did not perish, as stated in Numbers 26:11. The sons…
The Letters: Part II (Pergamum, Thyatira & Sardis)
To the church in Pergamum, Jesus introduces himself as the wielder of the double-edged sword, the one true word of God. He commends the church for staying true to the word of God even when believers were being put to death for their faith. Nonetheless, there were some among them who had adopted the practices of the pagan world around them.
The Generational Curses
Many individuals struggle with the concept of generational curses, feeling trapped by the perceived negative patterns passed down through their family lineage. It can be challenging for them to break free from this mindset and find a sense of empowerment to forge their own path in life. These beliefs may lead some to attribute every…
The Letters: Part I (Ephesus & Smyrna)
The better part of the new testament is filled with epistles written by the apostles to the early churches. These letters provide instructions on various topics that the churches were grappling with. However, John documents Christ’s interactions with the angels, relaying the specific messages to the seven churches He had entrusted to them. It is…
Marriages Are Made In Heaven
Solemnizing a wedding ceremony at a church or at a place of worship according to one’s respective faith does not turn our decision into God’s decision. Most people take the momentary happiness and peace they have when arriving at their own decision as divine peace. Later, they are unable to trace back the chaos occurring in their marital life to their hasty decision and start to wonder how the decision that was made in heaven ended up in hell.
Revelation – Prologue
The book of Revelation is actually John’s letter to the Seven Churches of Asia Minor and derives its title from the first words of his epistle. The authorship is likely attributed to John, the disciple, although there is a prevailing consensus that it may have been penned by another prophet named John, taking into account the relatively late period in the century when it was written, around 95 AD. It is worth mentioning that several denominations do not include the Book of Revelations within their accepted biblical canon.
Everyone Did As They Saw Fit (Judges 21)
The aftermath of the civil war rendered the remaining men of Benjamin devoid of spouses, endangering the very survival of their tribe. Compounding this dire situation was the unwavering reluctance of other tribes to offer their daughters in marriage to the six hundred Benjamites, who had sought refuge in the desolate wilderness of Rimmon.
Authoring An Unwavering Faith
In the Old Testament, parents taught their children about God’s miracles, passing down knowledge through generations. This led to a belief that God would perform miracles in their own lives. The victories of their ancestors served as examples of overcoming enemies. Over time, descendants relied on signs and objects, such as the Ark of the…
A Civil War (Judges 20)
After receiving the dreadful parcel, the entire nation of Israel, spanning from the northernmost region of Dan to the southern border of Judah, gathered at Mizpah. However, the tribe of Benjamin refrained from participating in this assembly.
The Never-Ending Love Of God
The whole Scripture reveals the incredible love of God to the world. After understanding the truth that God loves us, do we love Him? Even after becoming His children, we do not love God. Most of us may deny this, assuming that we love God. But when we do not hate sin, it indicates that we do not love God. Even after knowing this, God still loves us to the end. It is bewildering to know that God never ends His love, but it is we who reject it. Jesus leaves the ninety-nine and chases the one running away from Him.
A Broken Moral Compass (Judges 19)
In the Benajimite town of Gibeah, the Levite and his wife could not find any lodging as the people were not as hospitable as he had imagined. However, there was an old farm worker who took pity on them and offered his place for the couple to spend the night. The old man was also from the hill country of Ephraim and that was grounds enough for him to invite the Levite and his concubine to spend the night with him. Perhaps, the old man had the foresight about the evil present in the men of Gibeah and did not want the travellers spending the night in the town square. this incident is eerily similar to the scene at the town square of Sodom when Lot offered accommodations to the LORD’s angels.
Has No One Condemned You?
Jesus asked the woman standing alone, “Has no one condemned you?” Earlier, a mob had gathered against her to condemn her to death according to the law of Moses. Fortunately, they tried to implement the law through Jesus to make Him guilty of not following the law of Moses thinking that He would defame the…
The Danites Relocate (Judges 17&18)
Religions and denominations have given the people a worship order that is moulded according to their convenience. When God brought the recent pandemic to remind people that they do not religion to connect with Him, the religious leaders doubled down on the need for organized worship. Again and again, we continue to defy God when we keep holding on to our idols be it the silver ones that Micah crafted or the leaders we are ready to follow instead of listening to God’s voice.
Revenge, A Dish Best Not Served (Judges 16)
Samson was the last judge during a tumultuous period in Israel’s history but God had a plan for Israel even through these Judges. God wanted the Israelites to realise that no matter who ruled over them, He was in total control. He wanted to show that He is the only one they would need but the Israelites kept chasing after human leaders. The Israelites accepted the forefathers, Moses, the Judges, the kings, the prophets and even the Jewish temple leaders as their rulers but they never accepted God as their leader. The purpose of bringing the Israelites into this new land was for them to rejoin the fellowship with God like it had been in the garden but the people kept moving away from His presence as everyone did according to what they saw fit. Let us learn from the shortcomings of the Israelites and forego chasing after mortal leaders and rejoin our fellowships with the one true God.
Vows – To Be Or Not To Be?
Psalm 15 enumerates some probable deeds that keep us near God. This Psalm motivates us to fulfil our oath, even when it hurts or brings us loss, as an eligibility criterion to dwell with God. After taking an oath, if a person knows that fulfilling it will affect him, he should not change his mind….
A Thorn in the Side of the Philistines (Judges 14-15)
After Samson had come of age, he sought to marry a young Philistine woman whom he had met in Timnah, a city twenty miles east of Jerusalem. Even after the objections of his father and mother, Samson was adamant in his pursuit of the young woman who he had fallen in love with. Samson was chosen to be the deliverer of his people even before his birth and was under a Nazarite vow that forbids unions with pagan worshippers. His parents were not keen on this alliance and tried their best to persuade Samson to marry one of the girls from his own tribe. but what his parents did not realise was God would use this opportunity to confront the oppressors of His people and make Samson a constant thorn in the side of the Philistines. Our God works through our mistakes in ways we can’t even imagine. Though Samson was carrying out the desires of his heart by marrying the Philistine woman, God still used him to bring down the Philistine army.
A Nazirite for God (Judges 13)
The twelfth judge of Israel came from the tribe of Dan, born in the town of Zorah. Back then, the Danites were settled in the southern part of the kingdom and shared their borders with Philistia. The continuous abandonment of everything that was moral, led the Israelites to be subjected to their old foe. The LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines for forty years before raising a deliverer from the most unexpected source. No Judge or deliverer of Israel had ever come from the modest tribe of Dan. But that was about to change as God himself chose the unborn child of Manoah and his wife to bring Israel out of its latest misery.
Jephthah and his Gang of Scoundrels (Judges 10-12)
When we confront the forces of this world with the power of God we must lean on His understanding and wisdom rather than making our own assumptions. Failure to do so will not only dilute the word of God but also make others think that it is on par with the manmade cultures of this world.
The Role Of Traitors – Psalm 41
The first part of the book of Psalms ends with this Psalm. Here, the Psalmist was clear in His conscience to declare that his life pleased God. This Psalm teaches us that everyone around us might be traitors and encourages us to live according to the standards of God, despite the snares placed by the…
The Parable of the Thornbush – Judges 9
God allowed the reign of Abimelek to continue for three years before it started self-imploding. God is working according to His own plans and has set a time for everything. There was time for Israel to repent and a time for them to endure the consequences of their actions. A time for us to come closer to God, a time for us to move away from his grace and protection. The people got what they wanted when Abimelek forcibly became the king but evil cannot be subsided without the fear of God. None of the people in this chapter display the slightest adherence to God’s will for His people and thereby suffer through the consequences of their actions.
God Lifts Us Up – Psalm 40
This Psalm helps us reminisce about the days we lived without God to appreciate life after salvation.
The Fall of Gideon – Judges 8
Gideon assumed that their cause would be lauded with the same exhilaration as it had been accepted in the regions west of Jordan. But the eastern tribes shared boundaries with the Midianites and the other eastern countries that were raiding Israel. They had more to lose if the Midianite reinforcements were able to defeat the short-lived Israelite uprising. There was already a shortage of food in the land and they did not want to lose their supply over an unworthy cause.
For the LORD and for Gideon – Judges 7
The LORD knew that Israelites would count the victory as theirs if they had the slightest confidence in their own numbers. He used a barebones version of Israel’s army to rout the mightiest of forces leaving no doubt in anyone’s mind that He is the one in control. But people still found a way to redirect their gratitude towards a mortal vessel that God had used to deliver them.
The Man They Called Jerub-Baal – Judges 6
We often question God for the heartaches and grief in our lives without fully understanding His will. God wants us to come to Him with these questions rather than festering them up in our minds and fading away from His presence. Gideon was right to ask God for a reason for his misfortunes but he was also ready to accept God’s solution. Many a time we crib to God about our plights but seldom do we act on His guidance to come out of our problems.
How To Begin Our Faith Walk?
God’s ways of dealing are new every morning, and people cannot understand them. People need precedence in everything to trust and obey. God does explain to us before He accomplishes His will, yet He ignites our faith to do His will in our daily walk of life.
Jael & Barak – Judges 4 & 5
On the outskirts of Kedesh, Hebner the Kenite had pitched his tent as he was on good terms with the king of Hazor, Jabin. Jael was the wife of Barak, literally a nobody and not even part of any of the tribes of Israel, who brought down the army of Sisera and helped Israel overcome the mighty Canaanites.
The Cross – A Highway To Heaven
When God made a covenant with Abraham, He told him that his descendants would be in captivity for four hundred years. Several centuries later, God told Moses to lead His people out of their bondage. The delivered people however did not know their destination and blamed Moses for leading them out of slavery. Whenever they feared death, they preferred to go back to their former life of slavery. When God parted the Red Sea, they ventured to walk between the walls of water to escape from the swords of Phoroh’s Army.
Wisdom To Understand The Life Expectancy – Psalm 39
Observing life expectancy emerged in the 19th century for the first time when human death rates attributed to the rise in diseases started increasing exponentially with time. The life expectancy data attributed various causes to the climbing death rate numbers, and people worked out scientific solutions to enhance the life span of people. Moses had a thought about this when people died in the wilderness, and he prayed to God to give him the wisdom to number his days, approximately during 1500 BC. He did not explore the cause of their death but asked God for awareness to understand the short span of life. In this Psalm, David expressed his understanding of the short span of life, while many think that their life never ends. As a result, they do not fear God, and even in their old age, they do not feel bad about doing evil.
The First Three – Judges 3
It is strange to see a whole generation grow up not knowing anything about God. The Israelites loved their traditions and festivals and the festival of Passover would have been religiously followed each year. Families would get together over the Passover meal as the elders would recount the adventures of their ancestors in the desert and how the LORD would constantly bring them out of the brink of annihilation. However, for some strange reason, this new generation did not feel connected with their Maker. Not only did they abandon their own relationship with God but they were responsible for the children not knowing God as well. They were easily influenced by the pagan nations around them and descended into a downward spiral of sin and corruption. They replaced God with the traditions and festivals that surrounded them.
The LORD Raised Up Judges – Judges 1 & 2
It is strange to see a whole generation grow up not knowing anything about God. The Israelites loved their traditions and festivals and the festival of Passover would have been religiously followed each year. Families would get together over the Passover meal as the elders would recount the adventures of their ancestors in the desert and how the LORD would constantly bring them out of the brink of annihilation. However, for some strange reason, this new generation did not feel connected with their Maker. Not only did they abandon their own relationship with God but they were responsible for the children not knowing God as well. They were easily influenced by the pagan nations around them and descended into a downward spiral of sin and corruption. They replaced God with the traditions and festivals that surrounded them.
Judges – Introduction
The book exposes the downward Spiral of the Israelites and paints a picture to its readers of their lives without God. Whether we acknowledge it or not, our surroundings have a lasting effect on our belief system. Israel seamlessly blended in with its neighbours and at every opportunity chose to align itself with the pagan world than associate with the God of Heavens and the Earth. No sooner did they enter the promised land, the people forgot about everything that God had done for them and their ancestors during their journey through the wilderness.
I Never Knew You!
The Gospel of Matthew recorded the teaching of Jesus driving His servants away from Him, saying I never knew you. God loved us so much and gave His Son to us so that no one should perish but live eternally. God predestined us to call us His children and never forsakes us. Jesus is not ashamed to call us His brothers and Sisters. Then what makes Him say, “I never knew you”?
The Church of the Firstborn – Hebrews Part VI
It is imperative that the church and its leaders make straight their paths else the entire fellowship will descend into a downward spiral. Within the confines of the church, we should ensure that the grace of God is not taken lightly. But when it comes to individual families, we should not intervene until and unless we get a clear sign from God. It is only through His leading that we can deliver His peace. Let us wait for God’s leading for our lives before we descend into self-appointed causes of spiritual justice.
Experiencing The Wrath Of God – Psalm 38
While everyone wishes to enjoy the blessings of God, only a few are ready to experience His wrath too. Many believe that exposing the outcome of the wrath of God is a shame. Or knowing that God is not on our side, people will bounce on us from every angle. Especially our enemies will use this opportunity to destroy our image in our societies. Satan used Job’s wife on one such occasion to destroy the integrity of Job, but Job said You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God and not trouble (Job 2:10)? During the time of Job and David, the wrath of God bore the death penalty on their head, yet, they faced it boldly. But God enables us to stand in His presence by cleansing us with the blood of His Son. With this privilege, do we ever experience His wrath?
The Perfecter of Faith – Hebrews Part V
Today, organic food is very difficult to source and even if a brand promises purity of its ingredients there is high probability of adulteration in everything we consume. Even after knowing this fact, we do not give up eating altogether and are getting by with whatever is available in our local grocery store. But when it comes to our fellowship, we expect the purest variety and when we do not find it, we abandon it altogether. We feel we don’t need fellowship like we need food and thus our different standards. We make concessions for other things in our lives that are not perfect but don’t extend the same leniency to our fellowships.
Envy Leads To Evil – Psalm 37
This Psalm deals with three phases of our lives. The first one is comparing our lives with others. By doing this, if we find ourselves above others then we feel proud else we feel sad. The second approach is comforting ourselves by assuming wicked people’s fall or the rewards awaiting us for doing good. The third phase is looking at God and rejoicing in His amazing grace.
Our Everlasting Covenant – Hebrews Part IV
The author claims that the sacrifices and guilt offerings never cleared the conscious of the worshiper and perhaps this sentiment was shared by the other Jewish converts that were part of the early church. Then why did an entire nation practice it for more than fifteen hundred years?
The Old And The New Covenant
Every three years latest models come on the market, and the old ones become obsolete. The company stops updating the software to its older models. People still go for those outdated smartphones at a lower price because they buy them to show their status to others. Who knows that they purchased it after the new one was released? As far as the buyers of the latest smartphones, they need the updates of the software daily to cope with their job requirements, etc. Though their old smartphones have become obsolete, every aspect of the old one is available in the new one.
Our High Priest Forever – Hebrews Part III
Though milk is part of the diet of an adult, it is supplemented with other nutritional sustenance as well. We do not depend only on milk but take a wholesome diet according to our needs and desires. However, when it comes to our spiritual diet we are happy to gulp infantile edibles rather than mature meals. The people who came to Jesus were constantly dependent on miracles and healings as their source for affirming Jesus’s Messianic status and when Christ challenged them to exhibit their faith they all failed miserably.
The Foundation of the Laws – Hebrews Part II
The Torah or the laws were given to Israel at a time when they were a wandering nation, struggling to cope with their newfound freedom. These laws steered every action of the people of God by giving them guidelines on offerings and sacrifices and laws that helped them survive in the desert for forty years. These laws helped the people reach the promised land but they continued to abide by them even after the formation of their very own kingdom.
In Remembrance of Him
Today we are participating in His Holy Communion, not in haste but at ease to remember and rejoice in the freedom God gave us from the clutches of sin through His Son, Jesus Christ. People celebrate the Passover once a year, but Jesus asks us to remember His New Covenant as often as we can. Jesus asks us to remember our Father and thank Him for His incredible love. To believers in Christ, it is a daily meal rather than a Last Supper.
Superior to the Angels – Hebrews Part I
Some actors undergo rigorous training and make changes in their lifestyle to align it with the part they will be playing. This is commonly known as method acting, applied by actors who want to relate more to their character so that they can do justice to their portrayal of them. Does God have to go through our problems to understand them?
Hebrews – Intro
The book was known as the Epistle of Paul to the Hebrews for more than a thousand years but now there seems to be a consensus that even though this book doesn’t negate any of Paul’s letters, it also does not match his writing style. What we know is that the author was a Jewish convert and well-versed in the Greek translation of the Old Testament.
Take Heart (He Has Overcome)
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NIV) Jesus uttered these words during his final hours on this earth. The disciples had gathered with him to celebrate the Jewish festival of…
The Keys Of The Kingdom
Seldom people are encouraged to help others constantly, but many discontinue doing good to others because of not getting a pleasant response. It can happen that the person whom we had helped might end up being our enemy today. Or the people who derived benefits from us to reach a higher level would have forgotten us.
Mighty Men Over God – 2 Samuel 23-24
Mighty warriors were in high demand in Israel’s formative years. Both David and his predecessor Saul prioritised the recruitment of not just able-bodied men in their army but valiant men whose gallant acts would have fueled the urban legends in Israel. The author closes out the book by paying homage to David’s Mighty Thirty and recounts their triumphs on the battlefield and their extraordinary accomplishments. However, David’s over-dependence on his valiant warriors becomes a stumbling block in his journey with God as his foolishness causes the death of multitudes in his country.
Riches: Sign Of Salvation?
Despite the teachings through the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the idea of connecting worldly blessings to spiritual blessings continues. James criticized the shepherds for giving importance to the wealthy group in the synagogues and the churches. Some affluent Corinthian Christians abused the Lord’s Supper by marginalizing poor Christians.
Looking Back at the Life of David – 2 Samuel 22
The book of Samuel is bookended by two completely different people and their respective songs of praise. While their lives served a distinct purpose in furthering the plan of God, their song of praise was similar in its content as the God of Hannah is the same as the God of David. King David had…
God Protects All His Bones – Psalm 34:20
Believing in what Jesus did for us on the cross, we became God’s legitimate children and heirs to inherit His Kingdom. The devil does not tolerate our freedom in Christ Jesus and always tries to bind us again with the cords of sin. After luring us to sin, he gives us a feeling of guilt…
A Brutal End to a Long-Standing Feud – 2 Samuel 21
The Author Seems to believe that God was waiting for the blood of Saul’s descendants and for them to be buried before blessing the harvest of the Israelites. God’s grace is often mistaken for the cause of one’s blessing or more often the end of one’s suffering.
Do Not Be Provoked – Psalm 36
While Bible scholars consider Psalm 18 as the Psalm during the old age of the Psalmist, scholars attribute Psalm 36 to the young David. David was introduced as “the servant of God” in these Psalms. Because in both of these Psalms, David stopped listening to the provoking noises and started listening to the soothing voice…
A Revolt Quashed – 2 Samuel 20
On the road from Jordan to Jerusalem, the tribes of Judah and Israel clashed over their respective claims over David as their king. The other tribes had taken offence when their king yet again sided with his own tribe. Among them was Sheba, son of Bikri, who was the most vocal in expressing his disdain…
Thanksgiving
We thank God at the end of every year and celebrate it as a well-known and well-accepted festival. The scripture tells us to thank God in all things and all the time. Thanking God only during specific occasions throws light on our ignorance of His protection that is with us every nanosecond. When we thank…
The Road Back Home – 2 Samuel 19
Now that Absalom had died, the growing consensus among the tribes of Israel was to bring back David to Jerusalem as their king. They recounted the great feats of David and the countless times he had rescued them in battle. They had a rosy memory of his time as king and remembered the days of…
A Rest That Holidays Cannot Give
We understand the literal meaning of “Rest” as a break from our routine work. Everyone needs rest, and we look forward to the weekends. We think that the holidays would refresh our minds to work better as we need a break from time to time to rejuvenate ourselves. Practically speaking, we are not taking rest…
A Bittersweet Victory – 2 Samuel 17:24 – 19:8
After crossing the Jordan, David finds shelter in the town of Mahanaim. This is the same place where Ish-Bosheth, Saul’s remaining heir, found a safe haven from David after the death of his father and brothers on the battlefield. And now David was looking at the same town to provide him refuge against his own…
Vindication In His Righteousness – Psalm 35
This imprecatory Psalms of David motivates people to ask God to take revenge on their enemies. It persuades people to rejoice in the fall of their enemies more than they enjoy their salvation. While choosing an advocate, one should go by their experience because experience makes the advocate understand the client’s case and the opponent’s…
The Noise Drowning The Voice – 2 Samuel 16 & 17
On his road to his exile, David was met with many familiar faces. People he had helped had seen his sudden downfall as their opportunity to do something in return for their king. Ziba, the loyal servant of Saul also came out with supplies for the king and his men. He had a string of…
The Jordan Valley 