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: Psalm 18-22
Today’s Passage: Psalm 18:2-3
From a young age, David understood the power of God in his life. Through various trials, he learned firsthand what God could do when he trusted in Him. David witnessed God’s work in many ways: during his encounters with the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37), and as he faced the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-50). In each situation, God protected him and granted him victory.
Continue reading “Trusting in God’s Faithfulness”
Scripture Reading: Psalm 10–17.
Today’s Verse:
“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good.” (Psalm 14:1)
The psalmist’s words may strike us as severe. To call someone a “fool” for denying God’s existence feels blunt. But the Bible often uses strong language to reveal deeper truths. Here, a “fool” isn’t merely a person who lacks intelligence. Instead, it describes someone who lacks the wisdom that acknowledges God’s reality and authority over creation. This denial of God leaves them vulnerable to poor judgments, leading them down paths that harm themselves and others.
Continue reading “Recognizing the Need for God.”
Read: Psalm 1-9.
Today’s Passage: Psalm 1:1
The Bible is very clear that believers are not to turn to unbelievers for advice or form binding relationships with them, such as in personal or business partnerships. This principle is outlined in 2 Corinthians 6:14, which says, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” Psalm 1:1 reinforces this point: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers.”
Continue reading “Walking Wisely.”
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””
Read: Job 21-24.
Today’s passage: Job 23:11-12.
The depth and severity of Job’s struggles demand repeating. It’s necessary so that we learn from his life and struggles. He nearly lost everything of value to him—he lost all of family except his wife, his servants, and wealth. Even his health was taken from him and was brought to the very edge of death’s door. Considering all that he suffered, his faith was surprisingly strong. Most would have given up or questioned God’s love for us.
Continue reading “Faith under Fire.”
Read: Job 17-20
Passage: Job 19:14
It’s no wonder Job felt alone. He lost his children, his servants, and all his possessions in the blink of an eye. The pain and sorrow he felt were overwhelming, and those around him couldn’t understand what he was going through. His friends couldn’t grasp the depth of his suffering or how he was feeling. Even worse, they showed no compassion for him. Instead of offering comfort, they criticized him, making his pain even worse.
Continue reading “Job’s Loneliness and God’s Faithful Presence”
Last weekend (May 2024) was a devastating one weather wise for our area. Several tornados were reported. One meteorologist indicated the National Weather Service had issued 97 tornado warnings recently. That number is significant; but there are some things that were seen from these tornados that should benefit us.
Continue reading “Lessons from the Tornado”In the shadow of towering achievements and groundbreaking innovations, it’s easy to be dazzled by human capabilities. We live in an era marked by rapid advancements in technology, medicine, and science. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of progress, there lies an essential truth often overlooked: the limitations of human ability and the enduring need for divine guidance.
Continue reading “Beyond human limitations: Embracing Divine wisdom in our achievements.”As we stand on the threshold of the Christmas season, let me introduce you to the beauty and significance of Advent. In the tapestry of Christian traditions, Advent stands as a beacon of anticipation—a time of waiting, preparing, and embracing the imminent arrival of Jesus Christ.
Continue reading “The Essence of Advent: A Journey of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love”Thanksgiving Day has drawn to a close, the echoes of gratitude linger in our hearts, yet the essence of this celebration shouldn’t fade with the holiday. It’s a catalyst, propelling us forward into a life enriched by continual thankfulness and purposeful action. Beyond the feast and festivities lies a crucial phase—a transition from a day of gratitude to a lifestyle ingrained with thanksgiving. The lessons learned on Thanksgiving Day should serve as stepping stones toward a future brimming with purpose, compassion, and a heart tuned to gratitude.
“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV)
Continue reading “Beyond Thanksgiving Day”
Central Haywood Church of Christ 