Category Archives: obedience
revival sparked by rebuke
Haggai 1 This revival of interest in the things of God happened because Haggai, the messenger (Mal’ak) dared to confront a complacent people with God’s message (mal’akut), and the people came and worked (mela’kah) on rebuilding the temple. God’s Spirit … Continue reading
hearts of stone
Ezekiel 11:14-25 The glory of the LORD is departing Jerusalem, but with a promise to return when the exiles return, with a new heart and spirit of obedience and authenticity. They will have hearts of flesh instead of stone. He … Continue reading
the wrong escape
Jeremiah 42-43 The leaders of the re-formed alliance in Judah were trying to solidify their hold on the people, so they appealed to Jeremiah. They really were not interested in what the LORD wanted. They simply wanted religious approval of … Continue reading
useless offerings
Jeremiah 6 The LORD proclaims impending destruction upon Jerusalem because they are always rejecting his word. They dare to think that God cares about offerings from foreign lands, as if their costliness would appease him. But he says: “What use … Continue reading
worship as usual
Hosea 9 I hear the condemning voice of the prophet here. He is speaking to this generation of evangelical Christians who make so much of worship, yet often hide selfishness and sin. The prophet told the Israelites to stop rejoicing, … Continue reading
a firm and steady heart
Psalm 112 This wisdom psalm contrasts two hearts. The heart of the wicked desires selfish things, and those desires will perish with it. If he sees a righteous man honored, he gets angry. Why? The heart of the righteous fears … Continue reading
Posted in commitment, contentment, dependence upon God, faithfulness, obedience, trust
Tagged Psalm 112
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fearing and following
Psalm 111 Fearing the LORD leads to studying his works, as revealed in his word. Practicing his righteousness, in fear of his power, leads to a good understanding. In this world of constant strife and debate, how can we know … Continue reading
for such a time as this
Esther 4 An enemy has convinced the king to make a decree that could result in the extermination of her people. Queen Esther is in turmoil. Interceding for her people could cost her life, because the law prohibits approaching the … Continue reading
Posted in commitment, courage, Esther, obedience, plan of God, relationship with God, sovereignty of God
Tagged Esther 4
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courage to do
Nehemiah 1 Reading this text is like witnessing one of those rare moments when a person realizes that he has a chance to be more than just an observer. Nehemiah had the opportunity to play a significant role in what … Continue reading
authorization
Ezra 5 After a long delay, rebuilding begins and another challenge to it. The elders were authorized, so they had no problem with asking for the king’s decree to be made known. The prophets urged that the rebuilding proceed as … Continue reading
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