In Psalm 46–51, we see a powerful picture of God’s steadfast love and willingness to forgive. These chapters remind us that God is our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1) and that we can call upon Him in times of trouble, just as David did in his prayers. When we pause to be still (Psalm 46:10), we discover that true rest comes from trusting God, acknowledging our sins, and receiving His forgiveness. David’s own cries for mercy (Psalm 51) assure us that no matter our past, we can approach God with humility and sincere repentance.
Continue reading “Finding Rest in God’s Forgiveness”
Read: Psalms 40-45
Today’s Passage: Psalm 40:2-3.
Many today feel that Psalms 42 and 43 are meant to be read as one cohesive unit because they share themes of longing for God, trust in His deliverance, and confidence in His rewards for godly living. These words should reflect the praise within the hearts of every believer. It could be the song on the lips of all who know Jesus Christ. These words sound like the heart-felt testimony of someone who was lost in sin and through faith saved by the grace of God.
Continue reading “Living Out God’s Deliverance.”
Read: Psalm 36-39.
Today’s Passage: Psalm 37:1-3.
The contrast between man’s wickedness and God’s perfections is clear. Lovingkindness, as seen in Psalm 36:7, parallels the concept of grace in the New Testament. Psalm 36:7 states, “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” These passages also emphasize the contrast between the lifestyle of the wicked and deceitful versus the righteous and forgiven.
Continue reading “Trusting in God’s Eternal Promises”
As we step into a new year, it is natural to reflect on where we have been and where we are going. For some, the past year may have been filled with blessings and joy. For others, it might have been marked by challenges and hardships. Whatever the case, we can all agree that each year brings its share of uncertainties. That is why we need faith and courage as we enter 2025.
Continue reading “Stepping into 2025 with Faith and Courage.”
Recently, we’ve been looking at what the Bible says about God’s grace and salvation. We’ve considered how grace gives us assurance of our salvation. In today’s lesson, we’re going to consider receiving God’s grace in vain. In essence, we will deal with what the Bible says about giving up our salvation. This is not a comprehensive list of every passage that deals with this topic, but these will give you a great starting place. As you study and reflect on this topic add your own verses to the list.
Continue reading “Grace, Assurance, and Obedience.”
Read: Psalm 23–30
Today’s passage: Psalm 27:1
David knew what he was talking about. There were many times in David’s life that he had reasons to be afraid. He could have been afraid of Goliath like the rest of the army of Israel. Instead, he trusted in the Lord, declaring, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1).
Continue reading “Fear vs. Faith”
Read: Job 38–40
Today’s passage: Job 38:4-5.
In these chapters, we see a profound shift in the narrative of Job. After the long discourse between Job and his friends, where they accuse him of hidden sin and suggest that his suffering is due to God’s judgment, God Himself finally speaks. The Lord’s response is both humbling and enlightening, not just for Job but for all readers of this ancient text.
Continue reading “When God speaks.”
Read: Job 34-37.
Today’s Passage: Job 34:21-22.
Elihu’s speech has continued for several chapters. He feels like he has insights they need to hear, and indeed, Elihu reveals some powerful and important truths for us. One of the important ones comes from today’s passage.
“For his eyes are on the ways of a man, and he sees all his steps. There is no gloom or deep darkness where evildoers may hide themselves.”
(Job 34:21-22).
Today’s reading: Job 30-33.
Today’s Passage: Job 32:7-9.
In this section we will encounter Elihu—a younger man who has been silently observing the heated exchanges between Job and his three friends. Elihu, in his respect for their age, initially refrains from speaking, as he believes it’s fitting to allow his elders the first opportunity to offer their wisdom. His restraint demonstrates a principle deeply embedded in the culture of the time and echoed throughout Scripture: respect for elders and an openness to their experience. However, Elihu’s respect does not imply blind acceptance of everything the elders say. This brings up a crucial balance between honoring those older than us and exercising discernment in what we accept from them.
Continue reading ““True Wisdom: Beyond Age and Anger””
Hope is an amazing gift. It is one of those things that is hard to find and it’s hard to hold onto, but when we do it gives us the strength and desire to face the struggles of life. In fact, hope makes life a little more bearable. Baker’s Encyclopedia Of The Bible defines it as, “An expectation or belief in the fulfillment of something desired.” As Christians, we hope in something better than just this life.
Continue reading “Hope for Eternity”Easter is one of the most important and celebrated events in the Christian calendar. This holiday is focused on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is the foundation of the Christian faith. It is a powerful symbol of hope, new beginnings, and victory over death.
Continue reading “Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ”There is a common belief in Christianity today that says you can feel joy without feeling emotions like happiness. Often it is presented as if Christianity is not meant to emotional and that being a faithful Christian often results in a life that something less than the abundant life Jesus promised.
Continue reading “Is Joy Possible Without Happiness?”In our journey through faith and life, the concept of Christlikeness stands as a beacon, guiding us toward the epitome of spiritual maturity. This pursuit, though noble and essential, unveils the vast gulf between our imperfections and the pristine character of Jesus. It beckons a question that resonates deeply within the heart of every believer: How can we truly embody the likeness of Christ in a world brimming with trials and tribulations?
Continue reading “Emulating Christ: The Path to Genuine Transformation”Throughout Scripture, we are challenged to grow in our faith and in our understanding of God’s word. Sounds easy enough except when you’ve read and studied it for years and it becomes almost mundane or boring. Not that God’s word is boring but after a while its easy for us to lose sight of just how amazing and exciting it truly is. God has spoken from heaven and given it to us for our good. Yet, we often lose sight of that and drift into complacency.
Continue reading “The challenge to continue learning God’s word.”By Clifton Angel
The bittersweet image of Jesus as the “suffering servant” is most beautifully and concisely portrayed in Isaiah 53. It is this Bible chapter that has been so “titled” because the text foretells of God’s “righteous servant” (53:11) who would endure unthinkable suffering “for our iniquities” (53:4). I encourage you to pause here and read Isaiah 53.
Continue reading “Suffering Servant (Part One)”
Central Haywood Church of Christ 