Bible Study
-
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…
-
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,…
-
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.…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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.…
-
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,…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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……
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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.…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
Abraham took another woman, Keturah, as his wife—likely during Sarah’s later years—and fathered six more sons through her. Whether she was regarded as a wife or a concubine, this later union brought him additional offspring. However, unlike Isaac, these sons were not included in the inheritance. They were given gifts and sent away toward the east, removed from the land set apart for the promised line. It was a deliberate distancing, not born of rejection or disregard, but of discernment. Abraham understood that Isaac was not merely another son, but the one through whom God’s covenant would be fulfilled. The…
-
After Israel’s failed attempt to conquer Ai—having acted on their own without seeking the Lord’s guidance—the Lord reassures Joshua, urging him not to be afraid and promising victory over Ai, including its king, people, city, and land. This time, what was once forbidden—the plunder and livestock—was now permitted. And unlike Jericho, where victory came in daylight with marching and noise, here it would come in stillness and darkness, not by circling walls but by lying in wait. You shall do to Ai and its king as you did to Jericho and its king, except that you may carry off their…
-
In times of hardship, believers often question God’s presence in their lives, assuming that misfortunes occur because He is absent. But God is omnipresent—He is always with us, which is why He is called Immanuel. During the Christmas season, some people acknowledge this truth, recalling the prophecy from Isaiah that speaks of Immanuel, “God with us.” Yet, strangely, just a week later, as the New Year begins, many grow anxious about the days ahead and seem to forget Immanuel. Instead, they shift their focus to another name—Ebenezer—declaring that the God who has helped them thus far will continue to guide…
-
No one can truly explain why so many people on earth remain unaware of God, even though He has done everything for all people on this earth. God is not far from any of us, yet only a few truly know Him, while the majority remain ignorant of His presence. When we accomplish something, we ensure it receives publicity so that others may recognise our achievements. Political parties, for instance, highlight their accomplishments during elections to validate their governance. In contrast, our Sovereign God, who has done everything necessary for us to regain the eternal life we lost through disobedience,…
-
At first glance, Rebekah’s departure from her homeland to marry Isaac may appear to be a simple arranged marriage. But this union is far more than a romantic or cultural arrangement—it is a powerful testimony to God’s providence, faith in action, and the unfolding of His covenant promises. Rebekah does not merely become Isaac’s wife; she steps into the role of matriarch, entering Sarah’s tent and taking her place in the ongoing story of Israel’s destiny. Abraham’s Instructions After Sarah’s death and with Abraham now very old, his focus is on an important task—ensuring that God’s covenant continues through Isaac.…
-
Immediately after the miraculous fall of Jericho, Israel was met with an unexpected and crushing defeat. But rather than pausing to examine themselves as a people, to search their own hearts or to question their collective disobedience, they sought out a single person to blame. The loss was not processed as a moment for national repentance, but as an offence to be investigated and pinned on an individual. The Israelites were unfaithful in regard to the devoted things; Achan son of Karmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of them. So…
-
We are all aware of how God humbled His own Son and sent Him to save us from eternal death. In obedience to His Father, Jesus willingly gave up the glory and comfort of being with Him and came to dwell among us as our brother. Just as God humbled His Son to fulfil His saving purpose on earth, He continues to humble us in order to carry out His will in our lives and in the world. That is why Jesus taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”…
-
Many believers live under the constant threat of persecution, which tends to intensify during times of ethnic unrest. In recent years, both ethnic violence and religious persecution have been on the rise. Interestingly, as the number of religions increases, so does the violence associated with them. This raises a fundamental question: if there is only one God, how can there be countless religions? This simple question sheds light on a deeper truth—there is no inherent connection between God and religion. If God had indeed created religion, it would have been clearly mentioned in the foundational chapters of the Bible, particularly…
-
This Psalm reveals the sovereign authority of God—the Creator who not only made all things but continues to govern them flawlessly. In His wisdom, the Almighty entrusted a measure of His authority to mankind, whom He created in His own image. Tragically, through disobedience, mankind forfeited this governing authority to the devil. As a result, the deceiver positioned himself as the ruler over what God had created. Confident in his deceit, the devil even dared to claim ownership of the world before the Son of Man, boasting that he could give its riches and kingdoms to anyone who worshipped him.…
-
The city of Jericho stood in silent terror as the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in since the discovery of Joshua’s spies within their walls, which only confirmed their worst fears. The people had heard enough—tales of the Red Sea parting, of kings defeated, of a people led by a God who fought for them. However, the people of Jericho did not prepare for battle—they simply locked themselves in. The city’s gates, normally open for trade and movement, were now shut tight. This was not strength, but…
-
In the beginning, darkness covered the earth, and God declared, “Let there be light”,—and light appeared. We understand that darkness and light can not be there together. As John wrote, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). We witnessed this truth fulfilled in Jesus, the Light of the world, who bore the darkness of the whole world’s sin, yet was not overcome by it. There is a unique truth in this redemptive act: although light and darkness cannot coexist, God allowed the Light to dwell in the midst of darkness until the…
-
People often ponder on a seemingly simple question: How do I share the Gospel? How do I introduce Christ to others? Though it sounds basic, many are unclear about it and carry doubts or regrets, wondering whether they shared effectively or truly impacted someone’s life. For many, the act of sharing Christ has transitioned from recounting a deep, personal encounter with God to merely passing on second-hand information. Sharing Without Leading Today, with abundant access to Biblical resources online, anyone can study themes and doctrines with ease. Many who are eager to share the Word of God gather material from…
-
Long before God atoned for our sins through His Son and proclaimed forgiveness for all mankind, this Psalm declared one universal truth: regardless of time or ignorance, God’s redemption was already at work, and those who loved Him could perceive that salvation came by His grace. Because of this, we are called to live out the good news we have received. Unfortunately, many believe that forgiveness is confined to a single religion, as if it belongs only to one group rather than all people. Yet Jesus did not come to established a religion—He came to show us how to be…
-
Leading up to the monumental encounter at Jericho, God told Joshua to prepare His people for victory, not by military strength, but by spiritual obedience. Before a single sword was raised or a trumpet blown, the Lord prepared Israel not with weapons, but with an old forgotten covenant. At that time the LORD said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelites again.” – Joshua 5:2 The covenant of circumcision began with Abraham and his son Ishmael as a sign of the everlasting covenant between God and his chosen people (Genesis 17). It was a physical mark of belonging,…
-
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. – Psalm 34:18 (NIV) God is near to everyone and not far from any one of us (Acts 17:27). This truth reminds us that His omnipresence is constant, even when we do not go through difficult times. However, during seasons of trouble, people often grow discouraged and fear that God is absent. To address this, the Psalmist emphasised God’s nearness, especially to the oppressed, not to suggest that God is distant from those who are not suffering, but to comfort those in distress. God’s presence…
-
This Psalm continues the theme and structure of the previous one. Although the themes may not have originally stemmed from the Psalmist’s personal inspiration, he skillfully reshapes the insights and expressions of others to reflect his present circumstances. In the same way, we should learn to interpret and apply these Old Testament Psalms within our New Testament context, adapting their approach and implications accordingly. While the previous Psalm highlights the joy believers will experience at Christ’s second coming, this Psalm focuses on the events that will unfold during His return. God reigns at all times—whether our desires are fulfilled or…
-
The Israelites’ Exodus journey is bookended by two miraculous and unimaginable crossings. They began their journey towards the promised land with the Sea of Reeds before them and the chasing Egyptian army behind them. On that day, God showed His marvellous and gracious hand to the Israelites, as He parted the waters, allowed the Hebrews to pass through, and drowned the pursuing army, filling the people with awe at His power. Forty years later, as Israel was about to enter the land promised to them, they once again faced a body of water. During the peak season, the Jordan River…
-
While many Old Testament prophecies were fulfilled through the birth, life, and resurrection of Jesus, some remain unfulfilled. Believers often refer to these prophecies as affirmations of God’s existence and His active involvement in human history. With each fulfilled prophecy, their faith is, perhaps unknowingly, reinforced by tangible evidence. However, an important truth every believer must grasp is this: Do prophecies serve their purpose only until they are fulfilled, or do they continue to hold a deeper, ongoing significance in the lives of believers? Prophecies Prevent Us from Abandoning God God reveals future events to His people in advance to…
-
In discussing the moral of this parable, Luke emphasizes two key lessons that everyone should take to heart: to pray continually and not to give up. These two points reveal Jesus’ deep understanding of the human heart. He knew that people often turn away from God when their desires remain unfulfilled over a long period. Instead of waiting patiently, many shift their focus to other options—often seeking quicker, easier ways to get what they want. In their relentless pursuit of blessings by any means, some end up aligning themselves with the devil, who offers the pleasures and riches of this…
-
The Book of Joshua marks a pivotal transition in the Exodus narrative, moving from the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites to their conquest and settlement in the Promised Land. As the successor to Moses, Joshua leads the twelve tribes of Israel across the Jordan River and into Canaan, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham regarding the land. The book chronicles military campaigns, the distribution of the land among the tribes, and Joshua’s final exhortations to remain faithful to the covenant with the Lord. It highlights themes of obedience, divine faithfulness, leadership, and the importance of covenant loyalty. Joshua, the son of…
-
We often claim to love one another, and in many cases, this love stems from our love for God. Our love for God is usually a response to His love for us—He loved us first, even when we were unlovable and, at times, unable to love ourselves. While loving God is a noble and essential act, if it remains only a reciprocal response, it is incomplete. Human nature tends to love those who love us and hate those who hate us. But Jesus, for the first time, taught us to love even those who are difficult to love. To help…
-
At first, the recording of Sarah’s death and burial may seem an arbitrary decision by the author, yet it stands out for a remarkable reason. Sarah is the only woman in the Bible whose age at death is recorded. Unlike other prominent matriarchs such as Eve, Rebekah, or Bathsheba, Sarah’s passing is marked with exceptional detail. Why is her death given such prominence? Beyond the grief of loss, this moment signifies something far greater: it marks Abraham’s first legal acquisition in the promised land of Canaan. More than a burial narrative, this account reflects an act of faith and a…
-
This Psalm encourages us to renew ourselves daily in order to grow deeper in the love of God. Though it begins by addressing the people of God, it gradually extends the call to all nations—and even to all of creation—to worship the Lord. Through this Psalm, we are invited to reflect on the joy of our salvation and to evaluate the anticipation we hold for the Second Coming of Jesus. Sing A New Song Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth.Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.…
-
Zelophehad was a descendant of Manasseh, the son of Joseph, and belonged to one of the tribes of Israel during their journey through the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt. At that time, land inheritance was passed through the male line. Zelophehad died in the wilderness, not as part of Korah’s rebellion against the Lord, but due to his own sin, likely as part of the broader judgment on the generation that disobeyed God and was barred from entering the Promised Land. Zelophehad left no sons, only five daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah, who boldly approached Moses, Eleazar…
-
Every believer is eager to preach because they deeply desire to do something for the Saviour who delivered them from the bondage of sin. Many are drawn to preaching because it seems to be the most accessible or visible way to serve God. But if everyone wants to become a preacher within their small church, who then will be the listener? Often, the unique styles and influence of well-known preachers inspire others to pursue preaching as a profession. Many begin with a sincere passion to share the Good News, but over time, they become captivated by the rewards that come…
-
This Psalm serves as a powerful eye-opener for new believers, offering clear reasons to engage in true worship. It highlights God’s care and protection for His people. The Holy Spirit also gives a solemn warning—not to harden our hearts, lest we risk losing our salvation. Ultimately, the Psalm speaks of the rest that is withheld from the rebellious but promised to those who genuinely follow God. An Invitation to Worship Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD;let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before him with thanksgivingand extol him with music and song.For…
-
Some time after Abraham had sent Hagar and Ishmael away, the LORD once again spoke to him. This time, the conversation between them was not about a promise or a blessing, but a sacrifice —one that would shake the very foundation of Abraham’s faith. God asked for the one thing Abraham held most dear: his only remaining son, Isaac, the son of whom he loved. Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” – Genesis 22:2…
-
During Israel’s final encampment before entering the Promised Land—on the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River across from Jericho—the people once again lapsed into sin, despite the Lord’s continued guidance and protection. The Moabites, having failed to curse Israel through Balaam (see Numbers 22–24), turned to a more subversive tactic: leading the Israelites astray through seduction and idol worship. This episode highlights Israel’s susceptibility to external corruption, resulting in a serious moral and spiritual decline. While stationed at Shittim, Israelite men became involved in sexual immorality with Moabite women. These women lured them not only into immoral acts but…
-
In today’s context, testimonies have become a powerful tool used by preachers to draw non-believers into their gatherings and to strengthen the faith of those already within the church community. According to Romans 10:17, faith comes by hearing the Word of God. As people begin to practice this faith, they seek out a church or are led by believers to become part of the Christian community. This often involves taking baptism, after which they are essentially confined within the institutional structure of the church. The Word of God, which initially sparked their faith, is now dispensed in limited portions—typically during…
-
This Psalm reveals how doubt and disbelief can endanger our salvation. They blind us from recognising His limitless love and distort it as if it were driven by vengeance. It is sobering to realise that the very blessings we seek from God today are often the ones that end up shaking our faith. When we receive what we’ve longed for, we rejoice—but only for a short time. Soon, those same blessings can become obstacles to our spiritual growth, hindering our faith. Yet, we continue to ask God for things that may ultimately harm us, while He longs to give us…
-
While in Gerar, God used Abraham to restore fertility to all the women in Abimelek’s household, yet Sarah remained barren. But not long after, the LORD was gracious to Sarah as He had promised. She conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time God had foretold. Abraham named him Isaac, meaning “he laughs”—a sign of how their initial sceptical laughter had turned into one of joy. Each time they called his name, they would be reminded of how God’s promise, once met with doubt, had been faithfully fulfilled. The child grew and was…
-
When the Israelites camped near the Jordan, approaching Jericho and the territory of Balak, king of Moab, he became fearful. He saw how numerous they were and had heard of their exploits—how they humbled the mighty Egyptian army and had recently defeated the Amorites. Certain that he too would be overcome, Balak turned to Balaam the seer. He sent messengers to request that Balaam curse the Israelites, hoping this would lead to their defeat and expulsion, since Balaam was known for the power of his blessings and curses. So Balak son of Zippor, who was king of Moab at that…
-
While some believers often view long-suffering as a curse or burden from God, it is both surprising and comforting to realize that long-suffering is actually one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Most Bible translations use the terms “patience” or “endurance” in place of “long-suffering,” yet the Greek New Testament more frequently uses the word “long-suffering,” with “patience” appearing only a few times. The original Greek term is makrothumia, which literally means “long-tempered.” It conveys a deeply emotional quality—suggesting a person who is slow to anger or possesses a “long mood” or a calm, enduring mind. In today’s context,…
-
This Psalm affirms God’s absolute sovereignty and His authority over all things—both good and evil. Yet, many believers often limit God’s role, attributing evil exclusively to the devil, darkness, or even to other deities. However, it was God who planted the tree of the knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden. How, then, can we exclude Him from the realm of darkness? In fact, to redeem humanity dwelling in darkness, God Himself entered into it, allowing His light to shine within it. People are often hesitant to associate God with the realm of evil, fearing the implications.…
-
As the Israelites continued their journey, they encountered the Canaanite king of Arad in the Negev desert. Seeing them approach his territory, he gathered his army, attacked, and even took some of them captive. True to their pattern throughout the wilderness, the Israelites turned to God only after exhausting every other option and attempting to resolve the crisis on their own. God responded to their plea, granting them victory, but as was often the case, once the danger had passed, they quickly returned to their old ways. They set out from Mount Hor, taking the route toward the Red Sea…
-
Blood is the source of life for every living being. In the Old Testament, sin offerings were typically made by sacrificing an unblemished animal. The blood of the animal was then sprinkled on the altar of the LORD as an act of reverence. Scripture teaches that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:12). While these offerings, when done regularly and sincerely, provided forgiveness as established by God, people often failed to truly receive this forgiveness. They began to treat these offerings as a routine payment to God for their sins, as if God desired…
-
The Jews traditionally used this Psalm as a song of worship in their synagogues, and its content made it especially suitable for Sabbath worship. Following this precedent, people began the practice of worshipping God on Sundays within designated buildings. However, while this Psalm reflects early practices of Sabbath worship, shouldn’t we recognise the need to worship God at all times and in all places? Jesus taught this truth to the Samaritan woman in John 4. As we read the Psalms, we should not only receive their message but also appreciate the devotion of the writers, who, despite having no clear…
-
The Israelites had roamed in the desert for forty years and were now back at the scene of their earlier rebellion. When they first came to Kadesh, they had refused to trust God, and now the whole Israelite community arrived once again at the Desert of Zin. As expected, there was no water in the desert. Perhaps this is why Miriam died during this time and was buried at Kadesh. Yet the Israelite community had not learned their lesson over the course of their forty-year detour. They once again returned to their usual rebellious attitude, grumbling about the lack of…
-
No one intentionally wants to use God’s instructions to act against His will. However, because we often resist drawing near to God and getting to know Him personally, we remain distant. With that distance, we misinterpret His guidance and end up using it in ways that do not fulfil His true purpose. At times, we use God’s Word to mask our unbelief or to distance ourselves from Him. It can be startling to realise how we’ve turned something intended for our blessing into a source of judgment. In the sections ahead, we will examine how and why mankind misuses His…
-
Hospitality is a tranquil practice, one that ancient people mastered through self-discipline and care. In earlier times, there were no motels for travellers; instead, every household served as a haven, where family members extended their best efforts to make guests feel at home. Hospitality is defined by qualities such as warmth, generosity, and the ability to make guests feel welcomed and valued. More than a mere service, hospitality is a way of life that places the well-being and comfort of guests at its core. Sensitivity Towards Hospitality Saints, hermits, and holy figures were among the primary beneficiaries of this deeply…
-
Dr. Childs explains, “Simply put, emotions are our responses to people, places, things, or situations. Sometimes, they can even trigger physical reactions. We should often remind ourselves that emotions aren’t inherently good or bad—they simply exist.” Further, emotions are feelings like happiness, love, fear, anger, or hatred, often influenced by our environment or the people around us. Every human being experiences emotions; they are a natural and psychological response to circumstances. What determines whether an emotion is viewed as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ is how a person chooses to respond to it. Understanding Emotions Imagine you’re undergoing a month-long selection process…
-
Perhaps emboldened by the rebellion of Aaron and Miriam against Moses, Korah assembled a group of his associates and attempted to incite a revolt. The foundation of his uprising lay in the numerous laws being delivered to the people to set them apart as holy. However, Korah and his followers believed themselves already holy and righteous solely by virtue of being chosen by God. They viewed their special status as sufficient and saw no need for continuous repentance and loathed Aaron and Moses for elevating themselves above others. Korah, a descendant of Levi through Kohath and Izhar, held the status…
-
No one can deny the truth of the promise: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Romans 10:13). However, as Paul explains, this calling upon the Lord is only possible if God’s love is shared and proclaimed. The Bible contains many verses urging believers to be messengers of God’s love, spreading the Good News throughout the world. For instance, when Jesus spoke about the end times, He said, “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” In this powerful…
-
This Psalm is traditionally believed to have been written by Moses and is considered the only Psalm attributed to him. While some scholars argue that Moses may not have written it himself, suggesting instead that someone recorded his prayer in the form of a Psalm, it is nonetheless recognised as The Prayer of Moses. This Psalm reminds us of the brevity of our time on earth and calls us to be vigilant in preserving the salvation that has been freely given to us. Moses, having gained great wisdom through his walk with God and his leadership of the Israelites, spoke…
-
In preparation for Israel’s entry into the Promised Land, the Lord instructed Moses to appoint twelve men, one representative from each of the twelve tribes, to explore the land that He was giving to them. Among those appointed were Caleb from the tribe of Judah and Joshua from the tribe of Ephraim. The journey was not merely a survey of geography or an assessment of the land’s resources; it was a call for the Israelites to finally place their trust in God. The Israelites could have used this expedition to renew their faith in the One who had delivered them…
-
God never promised us a life without troubles, but He did promise His grace to sustain us through every trial. However, many believers mistakenly assume that sickness is a sign of spiritual darkness or evidence that God is no longer with them. Their reasoning is that if we truly belong to God and He dwells in us, we should not experience suffering, especially not illness. Biblically, sickness is often associated with the presence of sin, but this doesn’t mean that God hates those who are sick or suffering. On the contrary, Scripture clearly affirms that God loves sinners—that’s why He…
-
In many places throughout the Scriptures, Jesus encourages us to ask and receive. Motivated by numerous mediators who stand between us and God, we are thoroughly trained to constantly ask—again and again. James reinforces this by saying, “You did not receive because you did not ask (James 4:2).” Some believers, after asking for a long time without receiving, begin to reflect on Jesus’ words: “Until now, you have not asked the Father for anything in My Name (John 16:24).” So they begin to include the phrase “in the Name of Jesus” in their prayers. Yet even then, when the desired…
-
The title of this Psalm attributes its authorship to Ethan the Ezrahite, who served as a musician in King David’s court. He was later recognised among the wise men during King Solomon’s reign. The Psalm centres on God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David and his descendants. Portions of the text appear to reflect the troubled times during Rehoboam’s rule. Since the author lived through both David’s and Solomon’s reigns, it is likely that this Psalm was composed in his old age. The Psalm is divided into two main sections: the first celebrates God’s covenant with David, while the second…
-
While Jesus is calling all mankind who are burdened and weary to follow Him, He has also told us to deny ourselves and also to carry our cross. Many follow Jesus, not knowing where Jesus is leading them. They are pleased to just follow Jesus, and reluctant to reach out to God. Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way (John 14:5)?” If we do not know where Jesus is leading us, we may end our journey when we find Jesus. Finding Jesus is the beginning of our journey…
-
For many readers like myself, this chapter feels like a case of déjà vu. It seems as though we’ve read this story before—until we flip back a few pages and realize, “Oh, that was with a different king.” The storyline is nearly identical, only with a new setting, a different king, altered circumstances, and a different point in time—yet it’s still the same old Abraham. Now Abraham moved on from there into the region of the Negev and lived between Kadesh and Shur. – Genesis 20:1 (NIV) Escaping From God Abraham left the place where he had met God and…
-
No sooner had the rebellion of the people been addressed (with God punishing the rebels) that a new wave of resistance emerged, this time from within Moses’ own family. Miriam and Aaron began to question Moses’ qualifications to lead Israel. They seized upon his marriage to a foreign woman as grounds to challenge his leadership, suggesting that this disqualified him from guiding God’s chosen people. In many nations today, leadership is also bound by strict eligibility criteria. For instance, in the United States, only natural-born citizens can become president. No amount of naturalisation or residency can override that requirement. In…
-
Many believers step forward to serve God, assuming that He needs their help. But in truth, God doesn’t depend on us to fulfill His purposes—He simply chooses to involve us out of love. He desires a relationship and partnership, working not only through us but also within us. During missionary calls, it’s common for people to feel stirred and respond with enthusiasm. However, this response is often driven by emotion rather than true surrender. Without first committing their own lives fully to God, they are then trained to lead others to do what they have not yet done. When Jesus…
-
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. – James 1:22 (NIV) There are two key aspects to following the Word of God: hearing and acting on what we hear. One of the greatest struggles for believers is not just hearing the Word but actually putting it into practice. Many people rarely hear the Word of God directly. Instead, they tend to focus on reading, memorising, and quoting scripture from the Bible, often using it as a tool to measure or teach others. However, there is a significant difference between reading and hearing.…
-
The title of this Psalm identifies its author as Heman the Ezrahite. Often regarded as the most sorrowful of all prayer songs, this Psalm has brought comfort and restored hope to many during their darkest times. However, Heman, the son of Joel, didn’t turn to God only in moments of despair—he was consistently devoted to God, serving as a worshiper appointed by the king to give thanks continually (1 Chronicles 16:41). While many of our prayers tend to be filled with complaints, this Psalm takes a different approach. It is a reflective meditation in which the author revisits the path…
-
With the men of Sodom blinded and fumbling outside Lot’s door, the angels urged Lot to stop wasting any more time and let them carry out what they had come for. They told him to get his things ready and gather his family — if there was anyone else Lot wanted to save, now was the time to get them. Lot had pledged his daughters to marry two men from Sodom. Yes, the same daughters he had just moments ago offered to be raped were virgins, waiting to be married. So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who…
-
Before the Israelites set out from Mount Sinai, the LORD prepared them for their journey. The tribes were numbered and organized, and the camp was arranged around the tabernacle. The Levites were appointed to care for and carry the tabernacle, and the people celebrated the second Passover. God instructed them to follow the cloud of His presence, and silver trumpets were made to signal when to move. With everything in place, the Israelites set out from the mountain of the LORD and traveled for three days, with the ark of the covenant going ahead of them to find a place…
-
Assumptions play a crucial role in forming a hypothesis when starting new scientific research. A hypothesis is usually developed by predicting the outcome based on existing evidence, which is then tested before the research begins. In everyday life, people often make assumptions when concrete evidence is lacking. For instance, if we don’t know the exact temperature of a place we plan to visit, we might estimate it based on our own or others’ past experiences. Such assumptions can help us prepare and adapt to some extent, reflecting the idea that “something is better than nothing.” However, making assumptions about a…
-
After meeting Abraham, the two angels who accompanied the LORD arrived at the gates of the city of Sodom. It was evening time, and Lot, Abraham’s nephew, was sitting in the gateway of the city when, much like his uncle, he saw the heavenly beings enter his town. Upon seeing them, Lot urged them to stay at his house for the night, where they could wash their feet and rest before continuing their journey in the morning. Lot’s hospitality may seem unusual to us, but in the ancient world, most towns lacked inns or motels as we know them today.…
-
At the close of the Book of Exodus, we read that the presence of God, in the form of a cloud, covered the Tent of Meeting, and the Tabernacle was filled with His glory—so much so that even Moses, who spent forty days on the mountain of God, was unable to enter. In their relentless pursuit of satisfying their own desires, Israel had corrupted themselves and could not withstand the presence of God within their camp. If God is to lead them, He has to establish a way to dwell among them without destroying His people. That was the role…
-
There’s a powerful quote that encourages us to persevere: “The difference between a winner and a loser is that a winner plays until he wins.” In the ultimate battle between life and death, however, victory over death—earned as the wages of sin—is not something we achieve through our own efforts. Instead, it has already been won for us by Jesus. Paul beautifully expresses this truth: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) Elsewhere, Paul declares: “We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) There is…
-
Each year on Good Friday, people deliver eulogies in memory of Jesus, reflecting on the seven final statements He spoke while hanging on the cross. This day is marked by mourning His brutal death, much like the disciples who grieved in confusion and sorrow. Ironically, eulogies are traditionally reserved for the deceased, and on Good Friday, Jesus is often remembered as though He remains in the grave. In focusing on His suffering, we may unintentionally overlook those responsible for His crucifixion. Historically, blame has been placed on Roman authorities, while theological studies point to the Chief Priests, Pharisees, and Sadducees.…
-
After finishing their meal and renewing their promise to Abraham and Sarah, the three men stood up to leave. Abraham accompanied them as they looked down toward Sodom. At this moment, the LORD revealed His plans to Abraham—to destroy the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. God chose to inform Abraham of His plans to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah not only because Lot, Abraham’s beloved nephew, lived in those cities, but also because God was partnering with Abraham in His greater purposes. This was more than just a family matter—it was about relationship and trust. God was drawing Abraham into His…
-
Once, while Abraham was sitting at the entrance of his tent during the heat of the day, he saw three strangers coming his way—or at least he thought they were strangers. However, as they came closer, he seemed to recognise them, or at least one of them. He warmly invited them to stay for a meal. As it turned out, it was the LORD who had come to visit Abraham near the great trees of Mamre. Abraham had set up his tent near the great trees of Mamre and had even formed alliances with the surrounding tribes. We see him…
-
After the Israelites crafted a golden calf and fell into idolatry and revelry, God instructed Moses to leave the place that they had camped and go up toward the land promised to their ancestors. He declared that an angel would go before them to drive out the inhabitants of the land, but He Himself would not accompany them, as their stubbornness might provoke His wrath and lead to their destruction. When the people heard these distressing words, they began to mourn and no one put on any ornaments. – Exodus 33:4 (NIV) The Israelites were in mourning because they believed…
-
In this age of grace, we understand that God has given His Spirit as a seal of our salvation, which means that not everyone possesses this gift—only those who are saved by His grace. The primary role of God’s Spirit is to awaken our conscience when we sin against Him. However, many people overlook this fundamental purpose and instead seek God’s Spirit to perform miracles or cast out evil spirits from those who are afflicted. When we receive His Spirit with selfish motives, God’s Spirit still pours His love into our hearts and convicts us when we act in ways…
-
Everyone desires peace, yet we often struggle to maintain it with those around us. When we realize that living in harmony with everyone is not always possible, we tend to portray ourselves as peace-loving individuals and blame others for disturbing our peace. In his letter to the Romans, Paul advised believers to live at peace with others, but he included the phrase “if possible,” which acknowledges the reality that peace with everyone may not always be achievable. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. – Romans 12:18 (NIV) Consider the example of a…
-
The author of this Psalm remains unknown, yet it was likely submitted to the sons of Korah, possibly the choir of that time. Though the writer chose to remain hidden, God reveals Himself through the message. This anonymity mirrors the Book of Hebrews, which also has an unknown author. Like Hebrews, this Psalm carries a noble theme: the city of God. There is considerable confusion among believers regarding the Day of Judgment and the End Times. Some believe that God will descend upon a particular holy nation to initiate judgment. The term “rapture” is often used to describe what many…
-
While describing the Kingdom of heaven, Jesus narrated a parable about a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. They agreed to work for him for a denarius, and he took them to his vineyard. But the owner of the vineyard kept coming back to the marketplace to recruit more workers. He hired a fresh batch of workers at nine in the morning, at noon, at three in the afternoon and five in the evening. To each, he said that he would pay them whatever was right for their time. Perhaps the landlord’s…
-
As Moses and Joshua remained on the mountain of God, receiving instructions for the Tabernacle, the Israelites grew restless. Instead of waiting, they turned to their own desires, crafting an altar—not for Yahweh, but for gods of their own making. Seeing that Moses was taking too long to return, they gathered around Aaron, demanding new gods to lead them, convinced that the one who had brought them out of Egypt was gone. Forty days felt like an eternity to them; if they struggled to wait that long, forty years would surely test them beyond measure. The Israelites felt lost and…
-
The Holy Spirit is the paraklētos, and we all know how impossible it is to find an adequate word to translate that rich idea. Often, the word cannot describe the character of God as it is beyond our knowledge and words. But the character of God could be reflected in our lives, so that people may understand Him better than they understand with words of description and adoration. Jesus asked us to live a life that people who witness may give glory to our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). The Holy Spirit is the source of our comfort and encouragement. Barnabas,…
-
When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and identified Himself as God Almighty, El Shaddai. At the sight of the LORD, Abram fell facedown in reverence, and the LORD instructed him to live in faithful obedience and be blameless in his conduct. God’s expectation for Abraham to be blameless did not imply sinless perfection but rather wholehearted devotion, integrity, and faithfulness. The Hebrew word tamim signifies completeness and moral uprightness rather than flawlessness. Just as Abraham’s righteousness was credited to him through faith, so too we are made righteous before God through Jesus Christ, who took…
-
After a long gap, near the end of Book III, a Psalm of David is once again included in the Book of Psalms. While some Psalms are specifically known as prayer Psalms, such as the Ninetieth Psalm, which is the prayer of Moses, people often use all the Psalms as a tool for prayer. In particular, this Psalm reflects David’s consistent practice of praying to God, which is why it is regarded as a Prayer Psalm. This Psalm aligns with David’s life regardless of any specific period because the prayers it contains are relevant to every aspect of his life.…
-
The LORD called Moses and the elders of Israel to His mountain to confirm the covenant with His people. Although Aaron and his sons also ascended, only Moses was to approach the LORD. The next morning, Moses built an altar at the mountain’s foot and set up twelve stone pillars representing Israel’s twelve tribes. He then sent young Israelite men to offer burnt and fellowship sacrifices of young bulls to the LORD. Moses collected half of the blood in bowls and splashed the rest against the altar. He then read the Book of the Covenant to the people, who affirmed…
-
Learning has no age limit, and life offers countless lessons that guide us toward wisdom, helping us apply our knowledge effectively. Many believe these lessons come without a structured syllabus or plan, arriving in a seemingly random order. However, these are not random but planned in advance by God to make us whole. Another perspective is that the more mistakes we make, the more we learn. Fortunately, life allows us unlimited attempts to master these lessons—some succeed on the first try, while others take longer, accumulating setbacks over the years. This often happens because we fail to rely on God…
-
After a decade of waiting for God’s promise to be fulfilled, Abram and Sarai grew impatient and took matters into their own hands. Sarai suggested that Abram conceive a child with her servant, Hagar, and he willingly agreed. In doing so, he followed Sarai’s counsel rather than trusting in God’s timing and the covenant established with him. This decision mirrors the events in the Garden of Eden, where mankind once again placed human reasoning above divine guidance. Circumventing God’s Plan Hagar, a slave girl whom Abram acquired in Egypt, was merely a pawn in the scheme devised by Sarai and…
-
The inspiration for this Psalm likely stems from the 430 years of Israelite bondage in Egypt and the subsequent deliverance that God provided. Although it is rooted in this historical event, the Psalm also applies to various situations where God’s people faced oppression from their enemies after being handed over by God Himself. This Psalm remains relevant to our lives today, as we often find ourselves trapped in various forms of bondage—whether it be sin, sickness, demonic influence, curses, or depression. Isn’t our God faithful in delivering us from such situations and keeping us under His care? After witnessing a…
-
In his letter to Titus, who was leading a network of home churches on the island of Crete, Paul provides guidance on the teachings that should be upheld within these churches. He instructs Titus to teach in accordance with sound doctrine. He emphasizes that older men should be temperate, respectful, self-controlled, and steadfast in faith, love, and endurance. Likewise, older women should live reverently, avoiding slander and excessive drinking, and instead focus on teaching what is good. They are to mentor younger women, encouraging them to love their husbands and children, be self-controlled and pure, prioritize their home responsibilities, be…
-
After recieving the Ten Commandments, Moses records other laws to govern his people and instill social responsibility among them. It seem that he is following Jethro’s advice as he aims to inculcate these rule of thumb on other leaders so they can judge handle minor disputes in their courts. Moses takes this guidance and formulates several laws to maintain order and discipline. These laws do not necessarily come from God, as some, like “an eye for an eye” (Exodus 21:24), seem to directly contradict Jesus’ teachings on “turning the turning the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39). They also appear to be…
-
Fairy tales, with their vibrant fantasies and colourful dreams woven into stories, have always captivated readers of all ages. While children delight in these magical tales, even adults find comfort in revisiting them at least once in their lifetime. Grandparents, too, cherish the joy of sharing these stories as bedtime tales with their grandchildren. However, the same fantasies that enchant us can also become a source of torment when they remain mere dreams, never translating into action. Let us explore the harmful nature of thoughts that fail to manifest into deeds from the scriptures. Fantasies Are Dangerous Than Deeds For…
-
We know that God’s love is eternal and unwavering. Yet, during times of turmoil and uncertainty, we often find ourselves doubting His love. Does this mean His love has failed? Even today, when we witness widespread atrocities, people are left astonished and ask difficult questions: Is God in control? or Why does He allow such suffering? To remain steadfast in God’s enduring love, we must seek a deeper understanding of Him and His grace. Only through this understanding can we trust in His unfailing love, even in the midst of chaos. Human Love and Its Limitations Unlike God’s unconditional agape…
-
Abram had just emerged victorious in battle, yet his heart was not at ease. He had refused the plunder offered by the king of Sodom, choosing instead to honour the LORD, as affirmed by the priest-king Melchizedek. Even in his triumph, a quiet emptiness lingered, perhaps triggered by Lot’s decision to return to Sodom, leaving Abram without an heir. …the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision:“Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” – Genesis 15:1 (NIV) It was in this moment of uncertainty that the LORD appeared to Abram. God…
-
This Psalm, written by the sons of Korah, echoes the message found in Ezekiel chapter 18, where the prophet emphasizes that God’s forgiveness is available to every generation, regardless of the sins of their ancestors. There is often a belief that God’s punishment for the sins of the forefathers carries over to their descendants. However, the sons of Korah stand as a testament to God’s grace and mercy, showing that He does not hold us accountable for the sins of previous generations. Despite their father’s rebellion against God, the sons were spared and allowed to remain as worshippers in the…
-
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to his co-worker Titus, who was stationed on the island of Crete, likely in the mid-60s A.D., between his first imprisonment (Acts 28) and a later, unrecorded imprisonment. He refers to Titus as his “true son,” highlighting their close relationship. Since Paul had no biological children, this title reflects both his deep affection for Titus and his role as a mentor. Letters like this, providing instructions to leaders in a specific region, were fairly common. Through Paul’s letter to Titus, we gain insight into one such correspondence, learning about the challenges the early church…
-
Three months after leaving Egypt, the Israelites arrived at the Desert of Sinai and camped in front of the mountain of God. Moses went up to God, who told him to remind the Israelites of His deliverance from Egypt. God promised that if they obeyed His covenant, they would be His treasured possession, a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy…
-
Scripture reveals the love and grace of God that triumphs over human weaknesses. First and foremost, His grace saves us from perishing. Yet, despite knowing this truth, we often rely on our own efforts, neglecting the grace of God. Why do we ignore His grace? It is because His grace unveils His purpose for our lives, but we are often more focused on pursuing our own ambitions instead of His. When we strive to achieve our personal goals, we open the door for the devil to interfere. For instance, when Eve desired the forbidden fruit, the serpent entered her life.…
-
Many Psalms are prayers lifted to God during times of war, seeking victory. This particular Psalm is one such prayer, offered when Israel was under attack by its enemies. At times, these prayers reflect a sense that not only God’s people but even God Himself is being overpowered. In the Old Testament, whenever Israel disobeyed God and drifted away from Him, their enemies would conquer them and subject them to their rule. However, God often used these adversaries as a means to bring His people back to Him. Unfortunately, rather than recognizing God’s purpose in their struggles, the people misunderstood…
-
Around the time Abram and Lot had parted ways, a cold war was brewing among the kings of the region. For twelve years, the local kings of the Jordan Valley—Bera (king of Sodom), Birsha (king of Gomorrah), Shinab (king of Admah), Shemeber (king of Zeboyim), and the king of Bela (Zoar)—were subject to Kedorlaomer, king of Elam, and his allies: Amraphel (king of Shinar), Arioch (king of Ellasar), and Tidal (king of Goyim). However, in the thirteenth year, the five Jordanian kings rebelled against Kedorlaomer’s rule. In response, in the fourteenth year of the conflict, Kedorlaomer and his allies launched…
-
Language constantly evolves, influencing not only how we communicate but also how we perceive the world around us. Semantic changes occur over time, causing words to take on meanings entirely different from their original definitions. For example, “silly” once meant blessed while “nice” originally meant foolish. Similarly, “awful” used to mean inspiring awe or wonder but now refers to something terrible. Our language also reflects unconscious gender bias, as people often assume that doctors, pilots, or pastors are men, while professions like nursing, teaching, and childcare are associated with women. Our perception of everyday items has evolved over time. For…
-
Jethro was an influential figure in Moses’ life, playing a pivotal role at an important juncture. A priest of Midian, Jethro initially provided Moses sanctuary when he fled Egypt to escape Pharaoh’s wrath, offering him refuge and a fresh start along with his daughter’s hand in marriage. Beyond being Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro may have also served as a mentor to Moses. For forty years, Moses worked in Jethro’s household, tending to his flocks, a period that likely forged a bond between them stronger than even Moses’ relationship with his own people. When Moses was called by God to lead the…
-
Doing good is often associated with charity and religious acts, as many believe that such deeds lead to salvation (Mukti) or please God. However, if salvation could be attained through our actions alone, then Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross would have been unnecessary (Galatians 2:21). Today, many perform good deeds merely to gain the approval of others rather than out of true righteousness. We conform to societal expectations and fear living by God’s standards, believing that while all things are possible for God, living righteously in every aspect of life seems beyond human capability. To challenge this belief, God sent…
-
The authorship of the Letter of Jude is traditionally credited to Judas, the brother of Jesus. However, it is possible that it was written by a later author who was an associate of James. The letter is addressed to predominantly Jewish members of the early Church, as evidenced by the references to the lesser-known Book of Enoch. Although Judah had initially intended to write about their shared salvation, he hastily shifted focus upon learning that false teachers had infiltrated the congregation, introducing corrupt practices as the new norm. He warns his audience of these wolves in sheep’s clothing and urges…
-
The author of Hebrews tells us that God created mankind a little lower than the angels and sent His Son to become man in order to save them. Before explaining this, the author distinguishes the Son of God by stating that God never addressed any angel with the words, “You are My Son.” Furthermore, God grants sonship to us through His Son, not to the angels. Though we were created lower than the angels, God did not allow them to rule over us. Instead, He chose leaders from among men to govern His people. Initially, God guided His people through…
-
Many believe that fasting is one of the most sacred practices that connects them with the Father in Heaven through prayer, and they diligently observe it, especially during the Lenten season. Additionally, people fast to seek God’s power before mass gatherings focused on healing and deliverance. Seeing this as a model, many believers adopt fasting as a means to receive a favorable response from God in their prayers. Since fasting has become an essential part of a believer’s prayer life, it is important to understand its true meaning and how God perceives it. Most people fast based on the belief…
-
The Israelites traveled as the LORD commanded and camped at Rephidim, but there was no water. They quarreled with Moses, demanding water and expressing their frustration. Moses questioned why they were testing the LORD, but the people continued to grumble, complaining that they were brought out of Egypt only to die of thirst. The Israelites often experienced momentary deviation in their faith, quickly becoming perplexed and disoriented whenever they didn’t get what they wanted. Despite having visible evidence of God’s presence and provision each day, such as the manna and quail He provided, they still questioned His faithfulness. Their complaints…
-
In the Old Testament, it is a gracious blessing from God to set apart the Levites exclusively for His service. In the New Testament, service to God is expressed through various roles, such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. The purpose of these roles is to guide people toward God, equip believers for ministry, and strengthen the body of Christ. As these servants of God dedicate themselves to building the body of Christ, they often identify with one of these roles as their “title.” However, just as the Israelites once rejected God’s direct governance through His prophets by demanding…
-
During his entire time in Egypt, Abram did not call on the name of the Lord. In fact, it was Pharaoh who had to expel him, as Abram—who had initially gone to Egypt to survive the famine—had become comfortable there enjoying the benefits of his deceit. However, as soon as he left Egypt and returned to the land God had promised him, he sought to reconnect with God. He traveled from place to place until he reached the very spot where he had first built an altar, and there, he called on the name of the Lord once again. Ever…
-
This Psalm calls people to remember and rejoice in the victory that God granted them. The Bible refers to these celebrations as the Feast of Trumpets or the Feast of Tabernacles. These festivals were observed as God’s statute, commemorating the day God delivered His people from slavery in Egypt. Do we follow all of God’s statutes as diligently as we observe the festivals? The answer is no, because many of His statutes challenge our daily lives, whereas celebrating festivals comes naturally to us. We gladly embrace festivities, even associating the birth of Jesus with the term “Merry” Christmas. Festivals, though…
-
After an extended stay in the land of the twelve springs, the entire Israelite community departed from Elim and set forth toward the Desert of Sin, located between Elim and Sinai. It had been merely a month and a half since their exodus from Egypt, yet the entire community began to voice their discontent toward Moses and Aaron, grumbling and voicing their frustrations regarding the scarcity of food. The Israelites said to them, “If only we had died by the LORD’s hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you…
-
A doctor applies their knowledge and experience to treat illnesses, just as a lawyer uses their expertise to uphold justice. In the same way, believers should also put into practice what they learn from God to guide souls into His kingdom. Professionals like doctors and lawyers cannot rely solely on their initial education; they must continually update their knowledge to keep pace with advancements in medicine and changes in laws for better outcomes. Similarly, believers cannot depend only on the memory verses they learned in the past. Instead, they must continually deepen their understanding of God’s Word, allowing the Holy…
-
This Psalm focuses on deliverance, highlighting the stressful conditions the Israelites faced and the Psalmist’s plea for God to restore them once again. It depicts God as a Shepherd, providing a detailed account of His rescue and blessings. Despite God’s guidance and provision, the people suddenly found themselves under immense stress, feeling as though His protection had been withdrawn. As a prayer, this Psalm teaches us to seek a deeper understanding of God and His ways. While the Psalmist’s mention of the Son of Man leads many to see it as a prophetic Psalm, it is more than that—it powerfully…
-
In the ancient world, where farming heavily relied on rainfall, a prolonged drought had a much more drastic impact on food supplies. In the Bible, famines are often the reason people migrated in search of the most basic necessity—food. Abram follows this pattern during one such famine, taking a detour to Egypt, and it seems that on this journey, he is moving away from God. Throughout his travels, we see Abram building altars, but not in Egypt. Why is that? What made this particular expedition different? When we look at this incident in Abram’s life, it becomes clear that there…
-
Just three days after narrowly escaping the jaws of death and celebrating the sight of Egyptian bodies floating in the Sea of Reeds, the Israelites were about to confront another familiar adversary—one they stubbornly refused to leave behind: their wavering faith in God, a weakness that repeatedly became their downfall. The Israelites arrived at Marah where they could not drink the water because it was bitter and the people once again started to grumble against Moses. The LORD Heals the Waters Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it…
-
The Bible recounts that Hagar named the well after God revealed water to her in the wilderness when her hope of saving her son’s life had completely faded. Paul describes God as the giver of hope in our most desperate moments. Elsewhere, Paul explains how Abraham viewed God as the one who gives life to the dead and calls into existence things that do not yet exist. This raises a question: was the well already present, hidden from Hagar’s view because of her overwhelming despair, or did God create it at that moment? Similarly, were the 153 fish caught in…
-
It is rare to find a follower of Christ who truly rejoices and praises God during difficult circumstances. Yet it is common to hear people speak of the challenges and hardships of following Him. As a result, many grow accustomed to living in sorrow, failing to seek a way out. Some believe their lives on earth are meant to be full of suffering, which they must endure to secure joy in Heaven. Additionally, servants of God often share alarming accounts of their struggles as believers, unintentionally discouraging others from coming to God. While they may also claim to rejoice in…
-
Although this Psalm is titled “A Psalm of Asaph,” it is believed to have been written by a later Asaph, as it appears to date to the period when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and defiled the temple. The Asaph, who served during the reigns of King David and his son Solomon, would not have been alive during this time. The writer of this Psalm was deeply grieved by the condition of God’s temple and offered a heartfelt prayer on behalf of the afflicted people, humbling himself before God. God’s Inheritance O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance; they have…
-
The LORD instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to turn back and camp near Pi Hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, opposite Baal Zephon. God explained that Pharaoh would perceive this as confusion, thinking the Israelites were lost and trapped in the desert. This strategy would harden Pharaoh’s heart to pursue them, allowing God to display His glory by defeating Pharaoh and his army, so the Egyptians would know that He is the LORD. It is surprising that the Israelites turned back simply because God told them to, especially given their fear of the Egyptians chasing them down and killing…
-
The Scriptures instruct us to raise our children in the love of God. In the book of Deuteronomy, we are encouraged to share with our children all that God has done in our lives so that they, in turn, may love God and pass on these stories, along with their own experiences, to future generations. This way, the love of God is made known across the ages. Unfortunately, this has often been reduced to a historical recounting of what God did for the Israelites in Egypt, which has sometimes instilled fear rather than fostering a wholehearted love for God. Is…
-
Having delivered Israel from the hands of Pharaoh, the LORD set them on a journey—both spiritual and physical—where they would not only rediscover the land of their forefathers, the land that God had promised them but also restore their lost relationship with Him. It was during this journey that God established rules of conduct and governance for their newly forming nation, even in its current nomadic existence. Dedicate Your Firstborn The LORD instructed Moses to consecrate every firstborn male, both human and animal, to Him, as they belonged to God. Moses told the Israelites to commemorate the day they left…
-
The saying “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop” highlights the idea that if we don’t keep ourselves occupied, even with routine responsibilities given by God, the devil may exploit our free time to achieve its purposes in our lives. For instance, King David, when he refrained from joining the battlefield, found himself indulging in his desires during his idle hours. It’s remarkable to realize that even long, monotonous hours of prayer can leave room for negative thoughts if we fail to fill our hearts with God’s peace by truly seeking His answers. Moreover, even amidst our busy schedules—whether self-imposed…
-
Despite His protection and blessings, the Israelites rebelled against God in the desert. The Psalmist vividly describes their disobedience and God’s response—allowing His wrath to serve as a means to draw them back to Him. However, the people misunderstood God’s discipline, viewing it as fury rather than merciful correction. Could the same God who delivered His people from 400 years of slavery truly intend to enslave them again? Some even believed that God might become powerless, allowing their enemies to capture His ark. To dispel these misunderstandings, one must draw close to God and develop a personal relationship with Him.…
-
From a scattered world to the blessing of all nations through one family, the author of the book of Genesis focuses on a single family hereon. God calls Abram to leave his father’s household and hometown, sending him to scatter even further. At the ripe old age of seventy-five, Abram accepts God’s call and leaves his father’s household to follow God’s voice. Abram and his family were idol worshipers (Joshua 24:2), yet God chose not only to reveal Himself to Abram but also to deliver His redemption plan for all mankind through him. The author of Genesis traces Abram’s roots…
-
The survivors of the flood and their descendants all spoke the same language and shared a common speech. They travelled together as one large family, staying close to one another as they journeyed eastward. In the Bible, moving eastward often symbolizes a departure from God’s presence. When Adam and Eve were exiled from the Garden of Eden, they moved eastward. After Cain murdered his brother, he also went east away from the presence of the LORD. Similarly, when Lot separated from his uncle Abraham, he headed eastward and ended up in the corrupt cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. As people…
-
After the final plague, when the destroyer entered the households of the Egyptians and struck down every firstborn, Pharaoh summoned Moses during the night—a man he had sworn would never stand before him again without facing death. That same night, Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron and said, “Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested. Take your flocks and herds, as you have said, and go. And also bless me.” – Exodus 12:31-32 (NIV) Pharaoh, broken and desperate, asked Moses to pray for him. It was as though he was pleading…
-
Expectations are beneficial as long as they are fulfilled, but when they are not, they often become the primary source of our disappointment. Despite experiencing disappointment repeatedly, we continue to have expectations because, without them, life feels stagnant. Expectations serve as the driving force in our lives and help us form connections with others. If we expect nothing from someone, it usually indicates a lack of interest in maintaining a relationship with them. In this sense, expectations are the foundation of our social nature. While it is true that humans cannot thrive in isolation, does this imply that we should…
-
While people often bring trouble upon themselves through their mistakes, they tend to view these consequences as punishments from God. Punishment can harden a person, but forgiveness and mercy offer an opportunity for repentance. Both experiences involve sorrow, but godly sorrow transforms a person, making them a new creation. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. – 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NIV) Sadly, we often succumb to worldly sorrow, which either leads us to justify our sins or to accept that we deserve punishment. This mindset ultimately leads to eternal separation…
-
As Moses stood in Pharaoh’s court, the LORD spoke to him, revealing the plan for a final, decisive plague. The LORD declared that this plague would compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites completely, even driving them out of Egypt. At midnight, the LORD would pass through Egypt, and every firstborn son would perish, from the heir of Pharaoh on the throne to the firstborn of the lowest servant at the hand mill, as well as the firstborn of their remaining livestock. The wailing across Egypt would be greater than anything the land had ever experienced or would ever experience again.…
-
Fundraising is a critical component of any organization, with dedicated individuals tasked with identifying and engaging investors to address financial needs. While businesses rely on shareholders for support, non-profit organizations primarily depend on sponsors and donors to address pressing social issues such as poverty, access to free medical care, and education. Over time, spiritual leaders have increasingly embraced fundraising strategies to promote peace and well-being among communities. Similarly, churches have adopted fundraising as a means to generate resources, often participating in charity events to justify and highlight their financial needs. Trusting Wealth Rather Than The Grace Of God Paul was…
-
The concept of God is often misunderstood, as He is the one true God who loves all people—past, present, and future. Despite this, many perceive Him as an angry person, always seeking opportunities to punish. While this misconception persists, few openly declare their resolve to avoid His punishment. Instead, through repeated sins, they accept the notion that they deserve it. This section of Psalm 78 reflects a portrayal of God as a vengeful figure, angered by the Israelites’ failure to recognize His power and presence, which led to their underestimation of His Soverign authority. People Provoked God When the LORD…
-
After spending almost a year in the ark, Noah and his family were instructed by God to leave once the land had dried. They brought with them the animals, birds, and creatures, and were commanded to multiply and fill the earth. Upon exiting, Noah built an altar and offered burnt sacrifices of clean animals and birds to the Lord. God blessed Noah and his family, giving them a fresh start and the command to grow in number and populate the earth. The fear and dread of you will fall on all the beasts of the earth, and on all the…
-
After the devastating hailstorm, Pharaoh reneged on his promise to Moses and once again refused to let the Israelites go free. However, the LORD revealed to Moses that the delay was not merely due to Pharaoh’s stubbornness but was part of God’s greater plan. God had allowed Pharaoh and his officials to harden their hearts in order to showcase His mighty signs. These wonders would serve as a lasting testimony of how God dealt harshly with the Egyptians and as a cautionary lesson for future generations of Israelites. With this message, Moses and Aaron confronted Pharaoh, warning him that if…
-
Human beings are inherently social creatures, naturally inclined to express love for one another. This universal truth manifests in various ways, as people show love within their families, among friends, and in the broader community. Love, in essence, becomes a transaction—people offer love to gain benefits such as comfort, strength, and emotional support, while also finding fulfillment in being loved in return. Conditional Love Those who recognize their reliance on others often practice love to feel secure, whereas individuals who appear self-sufficient and avoid dependence are sometimes perceived as arrogant. At its core, the ability to love others is deeply…
-
Many Mesopotamian and Assyrian narratives include flood stories that bear similarities to the story of Noah. The Babylonian version, for instance, describes a flood triggered by one of their gods, who was so annoyed by the noise coming from the earth that he decided to destroy the entire planet. This depiction feels less like a divine being and more like a grumpy uncle fed up with his neighbours’ loud music. In contrast, the biblical flood narrative stands apart. It is not driven by the arbitrary whims of a deity but by God’s purpose to bring humanity back to the Garden,…
-
The central theme of this Psalm is the grace of God extended to rebellious people (Romans 5:20). To emphasize this truth, the Psalmist reflects on the past, recounting how God delivered His people and guided them through the wilderness. Despite God’s abundant provisions, the people rebelled, failing to grasp His irreversible plan for their lives. Instead, they demanded that God fulfill their selfish desires, resisting His holy will. Their unholiness created a gap between themselves and God. This Psalm highlights that only by separating ourselves from the ways of this fallen world can we truly understand God and His purposes…
-
After enduring five devastating plagues that severely impacted Egypt’s economy, effects of three of which were still ongoing, Pharaoh remained immutable in refusing to allow the Israelites take a “three-day journey” into the desert to worship the LORD. In response, the LORD commanded Moses to warn Pharaoh of a sixth plague: a deadly disease that would strike Egypt’s livestock in the field, sparing only the animals belonging to the Israelites. This marked the second time the LORD made a clear distinction between Egypt and Israel leaving no doubt about the divine source of the plague. The LORD also set a…
-
A distinguished poet and composer from the time of David and Solomon wrote this song for Jeduthun, a musician and singer in the choir. Jeduthun was appointed as a musician and singer (1 Chronicles 16:41)—a role of great honour. Furthermore, Jeduthun’s sons served as gatekeepers and were also singers in the choir, tasked with prophesying using harps, stringed instruments, and cymbals (1 Chronicles 25:1-3). This highlights that, despite their prestigious position, they also took on the role of gatekeepers in the House of the Lord. In military settings, it is common for combatants to perform gatekeeping duties in rotation. Similarly,…
-
The LORD gave Pharaoh an entire week to respond to His warning and release the Israelites from their bondage. Despite this opportunity to repent, Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened. After seven days, the LORD commanded Moses to warn Pharaoh of a coming plague of frogs that would invade homes, bedrooms, and kitchens, affecting the entire land. When Pharaoh still refused to let the people go, Aaron stretched out his staff over Egypt’s waters, and frogs swarmed the land as God had foretold. Even so, Pharaoh’s magicians replicated the miracle through their secret arts, further reinforcing Pharaoh’s defiance. Pharaoh summoned Moses and…
-
During the final months of the year, the act of giving thanks, holds a special significance in our lives. On the last day of the year, we often take time to reflect and express gratitude to God for the blessings, successes, possessions, and healings we experienced throughout the year. We offer thanks, believing it brings joy to God. But does our thanksgiving truly please Him? Does God expect our gratitude in the same way humans often anticipate acknowledgement for their good deeds? What does it truly mean to thank God? Serving God Sometimes, people devote themselves to serving God, believing…
-
Sennacherib, the King of Assyria, ruled a powerful nation located to the north and east of Judah. He launched an attack on Judah, but God intervened on Judah’s behalf. The angel of the LORD struck down 185,000 soldiers in the Assyrian camp, leading to Sennacherib’s defeat. As a result, God’s power and presence became known to the people (Isaiah 36–37). Asaph was overwhelmed by the realization that God was known throughout all of Judah. This Psalm describes how God revealed Himself to His people and how they responded to Him. Every believer shares a similar dream, longing for revival in…
-
After Moses voiced his frustrations to God (which only exposed his lack of faith brought on by interpreting God’s words), God responded by reminding him of the promise to redeem the Israelites. He reassured Moses that he would soon witness God’s power in leading the Israelites out of Egypt. God also reminded Moses of how He had led his ancestors but also emphasized that He had not revealed Himself to them in the same way He had to Moses. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by my name the LORD I did not…
-
John spoke of the Word becoming flesh, a mystery beyond human comprehension. Unlike our words, which cannot take on physical form and can only be heard but not seen, the Word of God, which created the entire world and everything in it, took on the form of a human body. As we celebrate Christmas, we often marvel at Jesus being born in a manger but overlook the mystery of how the Word could take on human form. Spoken words are intangible, yet the intangible created the tangible. Now, the things we can see are temporary, while the unseen remains eternal.…
-
After delivering God’s message to the people and gaining their support, Moses and Aaron approached Pharaoh with a message from the LORD. The God of Israel warned Pharoah to let His people go so they could hold a festival for Him in the wilderness. Pharaoh, however, questioned the authority of the LORD, and outright refused to even entertain the notion by saying that he did not know the LORD and would not release the Israelites. Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Now let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices…
-
There is a misconception that the devil lures and turns us away from God. Certainly not; initially, we think of going against the law of God, and the sin within us is powered by the law (1 Corinthians 15:56). In the beginning, there was one law: “do not eat the fruit of the tree of knowledge.” As the forbidden fruit appeared to be good in the eyes of Eve, she lusted after the fruit, and the sin (disobedience) in her was powered by the law. While the law is still powering our sins, God’s grace is working in parallel to…
-
The LORD had warned Cain about the sin he was about to commit, but Cain, like his parents, gave in to temptation and allowed sin to rule over him by killing his brother. Afterwards, Cain denied responsibility, claiming he was not his brother’s keeper, and lied to the LORD. The LORD rebuked him, saying his brother’s blood cried out from the ground. As a result, the LORD banished Cain, declaring that the ground, which had received his brother’s blood, would no longer yield crops for him. Cain was sentenced to live out the rest of his life as a restless…
-
Moses expressed strong doubts about whether his fellow Israelites would believe him because he faced multiple challenges. Firstly, he felt disconnected from them, as he was not fully considered one of their own and might not be accepted. His past experience in Egypt was troubling; it ended with him fleeing for his life, leaving fear rooted in his heart. This history made him wary of how the people would respond. Additionally, Moses worried that the Israelites would find it unbelievable that the God of their ancestors had spoken directly to him. The Staff of the LORD Then the LORD said…
-
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 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…
-
In the Garden, we saw the disobedience of two of God’s creations—mankind and the serpent—leading to their exits from the sanctuary. The author then introduces two new characters, brothers—a farmer and a rancher, who try to live in communion with God. They start out right, just like Adam and Eve, until one of them allows sin to rule over him, causing yet another level of separation from God. Adam made love to his wife Eve, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Cain. She said, “With the help of the LORD I have brought forth a man.” Later she…
-
Tempted by the promise of wisdom and autonomy, mankind disobeyed God by eating from the Tree of Knowledge, prioritizing their desires over obedience. This act shattered their innocence, introducing shame, guilt, and a fractured relationship with God, symbolized by their attempt to cover their nakedness. In response, the LORD confronted the serpent, woman, and man, issuing His judgment. To the serpent, He declared a curse above all creatures, condemning it to crawl on its belly and prophesying enmity between the serpent and the woman’s offspring—a foreshadowing of ultimate victory over evil as her offspring would crush the serpent’s head while…
