The Fear of the Lord This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him Fear the…
Sin: Temptation, Red Flags, and a Way Out
In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king’s men and the whole Israelite army… But David remained in Jerusalem. One evening David got up from his bed and walked around the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The…
A Domino Effect
On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. When he saw Queen Esther, he was pleased with her and held out to her the…
Boasting in Weakness
Editor’s note: Today’s reading comes from the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, a powerful tool for helping you understand the context in which Scripture takes place. When you understand the time and place in which events occur, you gain all new insight into the truths of God’s Word. Imagine reading the Bible with a behind-the-scenes…
God’s Words of Life on Grandchildren
From everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children — with those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts. — Psalm 103:17-18 May the Lord bless you from Zion; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your…
Please, God
Maybe your dad was always there for you. Maybe he took you school-supply shopping, hugged you when you cried, and told that ex of yours that he or she messed with the wrong kid. Or maybe your dad was deeply flawed. Maybe, through his words and actions or his silence and neglect, you learned that…
Jesus, I Need Your Grace
That Difficult Person Dear Jesus, I need Your help. Someone is making my life difficult. I have tried to be kind and patient — You know I have, Lord. But there have been times when I’ve lost my temper — You know that too. I’ve said unkind things and thought even worse things. Our relationship…
The Scriptures Teach Us a Better Way
The Word of God is a lifeline for every Christian. Paul instructed his readers that the Word of God will teach us as well as provide encouragement and hope. The psalmist wrote, My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to Your Word. — Psalm 119:28 NIV The Bible is the primary way God…
Jesus I Need You in These Dark Times
Jesus, You Are My Refuge Dear Jesus, Thank You for providing security in an insecure world. You warned that “nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains” (Mark 13:8). All of this and more will signal Your coming.…
Enduring with the Lord’s Help
Hasten, O God, to save me; come quickly, Lord, to help me May those who want to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. — Psalm 70:1-2 Read Psalms 69-71 David’s psalms are a continual returning to urgent petitions. He asks God to hear him,…