Welcome to Connect2LIFE

This blog is the completion of a three year project.  It is a Bible reading plan that is designed to take three years to complete as you read through all sixty-six books of the Bible.  It is common for Bible reading plans to take the reader through the whole Bible in a year.  Connect2LIFE takes a different approach.  While any plan that gets a person reading the Bible is good, the focus of this plan is not so much to read the Bible in a certain time, but to read through the whole Bible while focusing on a response.  God inspired the Bible to speak to us and make a difference in our lives.  There are three simple questions to respond to each day.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?

3.  How can I help someone?

Another unique part of this reading process is that it is designed around reading five days a week.  The New Testament is read one chapter a day.  Doing this five days a week, you will read the New Testament in a year.  The Old Testament starts out reading one chapter a day.  Then, starting with Exodus chapter 17, read two chapters a day.  It will take you two years to complete the Old Testament this way.  Reading for five days a week, and reading one or two chapters a day, allows for reading other parts of the Bible.  Many like to read from the Psalms and Proverbs daily.  Many have a favorite passage they like to read often.  This allows for that.

I have written my thoughts for each chapter and posted them on this blog.  The process took me a little over three years.  This is a good illustration that things don’t always go the way we plan.  In the process of the three years, my brother, Roger, died unexpectedly.  We were at the hospital for more than two weeks with him.  I also worked through a year-long transition and retirement process with the church I have had the privilege of serving for twenty five years.  It was a privilege to work with them as they selected their new pastor.  So, this all took me a little longer than planned, but I completed my goal.

I started with the New Testament.  If you go to the oldest posting on this blog, you will find Matthew chapter one.  Go to the blog archive, year 2012, to find the beginning.  My suggestion is that you read the chapter(s) for the day and then write your thoughts first.  This does not need to be extensive, nor a commentary on the whole chapter.  The goal is for each reader to write something that speaks to you as you read.  Pray for God to make His Word speak to you.  And, unlike what I did, you are not writing for publication. So, let God speak to your heart as you read and write your thoughts.  After you write, read what I wrote.  There is no right or wrong thing to write, as the goal is for each reader to think about what they are reading and how can they apply the Bible to daily life.  Also, it helps us get our thoughts focused on serving others, the last question asks how I can help someone.

The 119th Psalm says that God’s Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.  The Psalmist wrote that he would hide God’s Word in his heart so that he wouldn’t sin against God.  There is no better book to read to establish the foundation for our lives than the Bible.  I trust that you will be drawn closer to the Lord Jesus Christ as you read and write.  So, grab a notebook and get started.

Bible Chapter: Malachi 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
I am the LORD, and I do not change.  A great statement of encouragement.  What God promises He will fulfill.  He won’t get part of the way along a path and decide He made a mistake and go in a completely different direction.  He is the same every day.  That is uplifting.
A very scary question:  Will a man rob God?  Can you get away with cheating God?  They were told that is what they were going by not bringing their tithes to the Lord.  Being faithful with the tithe (a tenth of their increase) comes with some interesting results.  It either brings a blessing or a curse, depending on our obedience.  He said that those who are faithful will receive a blessing so large they can’t contain it.  These blessings are not only financial.  Giving is a privilege that permits God to stretch our faith. It is a strengthening discipline. This will result in blessings here and in eternity.  God said He will open the windows of heaven for those who are faithful with the tithe.  This will include both an increase in supply and a decrease in the devourer.  Just as He made the shoes on the feet of those in the wilderness to not wear out, He can make our things last to lower our expenses.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Here we have the ending of the book, and it happens to be the last book in the Old Testament.  We find a reminder to remember to obey the Law of Moses, all the decrees God gave him.  Then He promised to send a prophet whose preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers.  These are two critical insights for life.
Obey.  That theme is throughout the Bible.  God said it over and over and over and over again.  Do what He says.  The person who obeys will always be better off in the end.  God’s ways are always the best.
Fathers and children.  God’s plan is for a man and woman to be married and have children.  The family is God’s plan for an orderly society and to pass truth on to the next generation.  Fathers are becoming too absent.  They are neglecting their responsibilities.  That is a main reason for the mess in society.  The hearts of the fathers need to be drawn to their children.  Men, be the men God called you to be.  Your children are more important that your toys and recreation.

3.  How can I help someone?
Be faithful to God.  Live it out till the end.  Don’t quit on God even when things seem really hard.

Bible Chapter: Malachi 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Does God really love you?  Does He care about people?  We see here that He says “I have always loved you”.  Some were doubting that God really loved them.  He told this to them again because He wants people to be assured that love is His nature.  They had many difficulties and troubles because of their disobedience to God.  Some thought that God was unfaithful to His promises.  No, it wasn’t unfaithfulness, it as His righteousness calling them back to Him.
Here we see a passage that few have thought much of, but is awesome.  The people were showing disrespect to God through their offerings and sacrifices.  They were showing contempt for God.  They asked how they were doing that.  The response was by offering defiled sacrifices on the altar.  They showed no respect by giving blind, crippled and diseased animals as sacrifices.  Then God challenged them with this statement:  try giving gifts like that to your governor, and see how pleased he is.  I like that challenge.  People wouldn’t consider something like fulfilling their obligations to others or to pay their taxes with defective resources, it would not be accepted.  But, the people thought God would accept their defective sacrifices.  It is a challenge to people to see that they need to put God on the highest level of respect and obedience.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Personal relationships.  We see an example of what God created for our good and how people reject God’s way.  Many men had been unfaithful, doing a detestable thing. They defiled the Lord’s sanctuary by marrying women who worship idols. God expects His followers to marry a person who is also a follower of God, believers are to marry believers.  They asked why the Lord doesn’t accept their worship.  God responded that He witnessed the vows they made when they got married.  But, they had been unfaithful to their faithful wife.  They didn’t understand that the Lord made them one with their wife?  God told them to guard their hearts and remain loyal to the wife of their youth.  Then we see a powerful statement, God hates divorce.  “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.”  Marriage is God’s idea.  He created it and designed it.  So, we must follow the Creator’s instructions.  It is a life agreement, a pledge of faithfulness to each other in the sight of God.  God was rebuking them because many men were forsaking their solemn pledge to their wives.  Marriage is a great idea that the enemy is perverting.  Seek to do things God’s way and receive the blessings.

3.  How can I help someone?
Give of your best to the Master.  That is a line from an old song.  It is good advice.  God is deserving of the best that we have.  He challenged the people for bringing Him the things that they didn’t want any more.  It is only an offering and sacrifice if it costs you something.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 13 & 14

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
One of the biggest problems we see that faced Israel as we read their history is idol worship.  Time after time they fell into sin because of the impact of other nations that worshiped idols.  Israel would get caught up in it and fall again.  God would have to judge them and get their attention.  One of the exciting verses here says that a time will come when God will erase idol worship throughout the land, so that even the names of the idols will be forgotten.  Included in that promise is the removal of both the false prophets and the spirit of impurity that came with them.  That will be an awesome day.
Despite the mockery of God by heretics who say all kinds of false things about God, He is filled with great mercy and a desire to forgive.  He is not angry and does not have an uncontrollable temper.  Zechariah wrote that God will open a fountain of grace to provide cleansing from sin.  This fountain sprang from Christ’s death on the cross.  His sacrifice on the cross and His literal resurrection from the grave provides cleansing from all sin for any who accept His forgiveness and entrust their lives to Him.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
From time to time, as I read the Bible, there is one thought that jumps out.  It may not be the main theme of a passage, but there is a message that speaks volumes.  There was one sentence here that did that for me.  Is says:  Only the LORD knows how this could happen.  That is a good description of most of life.  I have often wondered why things work the way they do.  Why do mechanical and electrical and technical things work?  Why does the computer I am typing on right now work?  How can someone understand the workings of the physical body so they can go in and repair what is not working?  And even create replacement parts?  Why do things fall down instead of up? The list of questions could go on and on.  The answer to these questions is simply that only the Lord knows the real “why” behind the actions.  People can study and discover the laws that make things happen.  But, they did not cause it to happen.  Only God knows.  And, that is just fine with me.  God created the world.  He put the laws of science into being.  It works well and that is all we need to know about the “how”.

3.  How can I help someone?
As yourself what you really can control.  The answer is “not much”.  So, put your confidence in the Lord and follow Him.  He is the One with the power.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 11 & 12

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
One of the themes of this prophet’s writing was the promise of God’s plan for the future.  God made a covenant with the people and that included a coming Messiah.  Many were looking for Him at the completion of the rebuilding of the Temple.  When Jesus came, some believed and obeyed God.  Some rejected.  There were wicked leaders who deceived people and lead them away from God.  There are many prophetic references in these chapters that give a picture of end times events.  Because many would reject the Messiah when He came, evil people would bring destruction.  That was the consequence of the people going their own way.
We see a prophetic reference with thirty pieces of silver being offered to Zechariah.  This is what Judas was paid to betray Jesus.  It was also an insult to Zechariah as that was the price of a slave.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Part of chapter twelve talks about nations gathered against Jerusalem and Israel.  Many nations will come together to fight against Jerusalem and Israel to destroy them.  We have heard their enemies talk about pushing them into the Mediterranean Sea.  The goal is to destroy God’s plan, to destroy His people. But, in the end, God’s power will destroy Israel’s enemies.  I keep observing that happening in my life time.  There are several parts of this writing that give a double fulfillment picture.  They talked about things that would happen, and did a long time ago.  A double fulfillment of the writing will still happen in the future.  Bible scholars have discussed and debated end time prophecy for ages.  It sure looks like we are living in those days.  This gives even greater emphasis to put full trust in Jesus.  In these crazy days, many are turning to God for help and mercy. Millions are coming to realize that Jesus is the true Messiah.

3.  How can I help someone?
What is your source of help and direction for life?  The number of voices calling out to get people to follow them keeps increasing.  Many of the things that are said to gain followers make very little sense, and yet, they gain a following.  Be careful.  Jesus claimed to be the road to God the Father, and His track record proves His claim.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 9 & 10

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Who is the source of hope and deliverance?  We know the answer is God.  As I read the prophets it seems as if it has always been a problem for people to really trust God and follow Him.  That hasn’t changed.  People seem to serve God and then turn away.  Here we see that Israel would turn to the Lord for deliverance.  Because the would turn, God said He would help His followers by bringing judgment on the nations who had caused them so much suffering in the past.  God promised that there will come a time when Jerusalem will really live in peace.  The promise and assurance we see given by the prophet can still be grasped today by all who love and follow Him.  We may face resistance or feel hopeless, we can trust that God will prevail.
I see some interesting thoughts at the beginning of chapter ten.  God is real and He has the power to answer prayer.  He sends rain in the spring, for He makes the storm clouds.   He sends showers so every field becomes a lush pasture.  What is the option?  Many trusted in other gods, and we are told that they give worthless advice, they have no power.  And, fortune-tellers predict only lies.  Those who follow these false sources are wandering like lost sheep.  They have no protection because they have no shepherd.  God said He will punish these false leaders.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
When a person grows up in church and hears some of the familiar stories many times, it is easy to forget the context and the awesomeness of God to tell about it so far ahead of time.  Here we find one of those prophetic verses.  We see what is known as the Triumphal Entry on Palm Sunday.
Zechariah 9:9 NKJV
9 "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.
Matthew 21:4-5 NKJV
4 All this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: 5 "Tell the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly, and sitting on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.'"
The promised King would come bringing salvation.  By entering into Jerusalem this way, Jesus fulfilled this prophecy and revealed Himself as the true Messiah and Savior.  He was very close to going to the cross to give His life to pay the price for our sins.  Because He did this we have His promise of peace.  All of the prophecies that Jesus filled give confidence to put my trust in Him.

3.  How can I help someone?
The fact that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies about the Messiah gives hope to put our full trust in Him.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 7 & 8

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
As things were changing, as the Temple was being rebuilt, the people had a question.  They wondered if they should continue to mourn and fast each summer on the anniversary of the Temple’s destruction.  They were challenged with a question in return, and they needed to think about their motivation during the seventy years of exile when they fasted and mourned.  Was it really for God that they were fasting?  Did they celebrate their holy festivals just to please themselves?  These are good questions to ask.  These are good questions for believers today to ask.  What is behind the spiritual things we do?  Is it all really for God?  There are people who don’t come to church or even leave because they are not getting what they want out of it.  It is easy to get selfish in the process of worship.  Whatever we do for God, it will be unacceptable when it is done with the wrong attitude and motives.  Anything that is simply a routine without real hunger and thirst for God is worthless.
Another challenge for the people is that they were to judge fairly, show mercy and kindness to one another.  They were not to oppress widows, orphans, and the poor.  The nation had a history of not obeying God’s command to practice justice, compassion and mercy.  He cares about those in need.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I think about those things that appear impossible.  The large task that was before the remnant of people who returned to Jerusalem seemed impossible.  All that was before them seemed hopeless to a small remnant of God’s people. But is anything impossible for God?  We know the answer is nothing is too hard for God.  Here we see that God was giving encouragement to His people to let them know that He would be with them through their difficult times.  God promised that He would save His people and that is what He did.
God told them to be strong and finish the task.  Don’t just start, keep going till you get the job done.  It is too easy to quit part of the way through.

3.  How can I help someone?
Some great advice as to how to get along and treat people.  Tell the truth to each other.  Give verdicts in court that are just.  Don’t scheme against each other.  Quit telling lies that you swear are the truth.  Since God hates these things, everyone should hate them as well.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 5 & 6

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God gave Zechariah a vision of an unrolled scroll waving for all to see.  The scroll contained a curse that went out over the entire land.  It was God’s judgement against sinners who insisted on continuing to rebel against God.  God will not always hold back judgement because of His mercy and grace.  Even though He is slow to anger, there comes a time for judging sin.  While He was judging all sin, God identified thieves and liars in particular.  The sins that had been committed would bring complete destruction.  There will come a time in the future when even stronger judgement will come.
Another vision of a basket points out to the thought of wickedness.  Often when people think of wickedness they think of immorality and extreme evil.  Moral sin seems to be rampant in every generation and nation.  God punished the sin of wickedness.  Some day in the future when God is ruling the world all the evil and wickedness will be gone.  What an amazing time that will be.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Reading through the prophets has shown that there is a spiritual battle going on.  We have seen evil forces that are out to destroy.  But, God has His angelic beings who do HIS work.  That is a very encouraging sign for believers.  In God’s timing He will conquer the rebellious and oppressive nations of the world.  The enemies will be defeated.  God’s final judgement will satisfy His righteousness and bring His perfect justice.  I often get frustrated by the battle.  It is encouraging to be reminded that, in the end, God wins.

3.  How can I help someone?
Do you feel overwhelmed?  Reading through God’s Word gives many places of encouragement. The sin that seems to be winning will one day go down in defeat.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
There is a strong spiritual battle that rages.  Satan is the enemy and he works hard to accuse all who follow God.  The accuser was there to oppose what God was doing.  The opposition to the rebuilding of the Temple came from Satan.  Nothing has changed.  He is still the adversary today, the accuser who continually fights to mess up our lives.  The opposition that believers face is from the pit of Hell.  We are fighting against evil, not other believers.  The answer is, in the power of God’s name, to resist, to rebuke Satan.  The accusations he makes are always based on lies and deceit.  The enemy takes issues and blows them up to try to cause us to give up and make us look like evil failures.  The authority is in the name of the Lord, not in ourselves.  Through whatever hard times we must travel,  God wants us to lean on Him, to obey and see His provision and delivery.  God will make us new in Him.  Walk in God’s ways and watch Him do amazing things.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
The issues of daily life.  How do we deal with them?
Zechariah 4:6-7 NKJV
6 So he answered and said to me: “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. 7 ‘Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain! And he shall bring forth the capstone With shouts of “Grace, grace to it!” ’ ”
How do we make it in life?  Through the power of God’s Holy Spirit.  This applies to all believers.  What are the options of power in humanity?  Military, political or physical strength are all weak in themselves and cannot accomplish God’s eternal work.  It is only through spiritual strength and weapons that we win spiritual battles.  Jesus ministered as a man through the power of the Holy Spirit.  When the church was established it was based on the power of the Holy Spirit.  As believers continue to rely on the guidance and empowerment of the Spirit, eternity will be changed.  All believers need the fullness and active power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.  The Baptism in the Spirit is for today.

3.  How can I help someone?
Whatever God has call you to do, do it.  Don’t think that anything is too small to be important in God’s eyes.  If He wants you to do it, then nothing is unimportant.  God builds big things with small beginnings.

Bible Chapter: Zechariah 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God gave Zechariah visions to encourage the people who had returned to Jerusalem to start rebuilding the Temple again.  He inspired them to continue the work until the Temple was completed and not give up as others had done.  These visions encouraged the people to see the Temple restoration as part of God’s plan to bring a spiritual restoration in the future.  The Messiah’s comings are both included in these prophecies.  As a part of their up and down spiritual history, God encouraged the people to return to Him.  They needed to give up their rebellious lives, live by God’s standards and follow his plan.  In other words, do things God’s way.  He told them to not be like their ancestors who would not listen or pay attention when the prophets said to them, ‘This is what the Lord says: Turn from your evil ways, and stop all your evil practices.’

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
How does God look at those who follow Him?  In 2:8 He says:  “Anyone who harms you harms my most precious possession.”  Other versions use the phrase The Apple of His Eye.  God speaks of the group of God’s people who came through the exile, especially those who stayed faithful to Him.  Faithful believers today are just as important and loved as much by God.  We can rest in God’s protection and provision.  This helps take away fear about the future, about the unknown.

3.  How can I help someone?
One of the consistencies in the Bible is the message to hear what God says and then apply what God says in daily life.  The reason why God says that theme over and over is that it is what is right and best.

Bible Chapter: Haggai 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Many Jews had been captives from previous wars and living in foreign lands.  King Cyrus of Persia allowed 50,000 Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the temple.  They laid the foundation of the temple and then the work stopped.  Eventually, the people drifted from their original goals and started thinking about themselves.  God spoke through Haggai to wake them up and get going on God’s house.  The prophet spoke to them about the fancy houses they were building for their own comfort, as God’s house was in ruins.  They had their priorities all out of place.  God was no longer their first priority.
God challenged them to consider their ways.  They planted much and brought in little.  They ate and drank and did not have enough.  They had clothes and were not warm.  And, they earned wages to put them into a bag with holes.  They worked and worked and didn’t have much to show for it.  That is because they had lost God’s blessings.  They forgot God.  The good news is that they responded to and obeyed what the prophet told them God wanted them to do.  They knew that God was serious about His message to them.  They went to work.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
They completed the Temple.  But, it wasn’t as glorious as the previous one.  Some of the people remembered  the splendor of Solomon’s Temple that had been destroyed over 70 years earlier.  They were discouraged.  They didn’t need to be discouraged.  God promised that He would be with them.  He would fulfill all the promises made to their ancestors.  The Spirit of God was there with the people.  And, one of the things that makes the Temple so special is God’s glory that resides there.  The power and presence of the Lord is what always makes the difference.  God called for them to live pure lives and keep their hearts in tune with God’s purposes.  Reject ungodly influences.  The greatest goal was not the physical splendor of the building, but the power and presence of God.

3.  How can I help someone?
Keep your mind focused on what God wants you to do.  It is easy to get started.  It is harder to keep on going and complete what God wants.

Bible Chapter: Zephaniah 3

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Zephaniah turned his attention to Jerusalem and God’s people. They were rebellious and opposed God’s law (how many times have I written this thought reading through the prophets?).  They had again drifted to moral corruption and ungodliness.  The nation refused to listen to God’s prophets.  So, the message was that sorrow awaited the rebellious city of Jerusalem.  They were so proud that no one could tell it anything.  Rebellion usually leads to refusing to listen to correction.  The city had rulers who failed their responsibilities.  God decried these influential people for their failure to obey Him and be holy (and to set the kind of example expected of leaders).  They were leading the nation farther away from God.  God called their prophets arrogant liars seeking their own gain.  They were not living the life God called for them to live, not living a life that strove to be like God, who is pure, true and faithful.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God has His plan of salvation.  Zephaniah told the nation of God’s plan for them.  And, God has His plan of salvation for the world today.  God longs for a personal relationship with all who yield their lives to Him and make Him their Lord.  God longs for all to remain faithful to him.  All who follow the Lord will have the privilege of worshiping the Lord together.  We will be able to sing and rejoice together as we give all the praise to God.  He will win the battle in the end.   He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in His people with gladness.  God promised to deal severely with all who have oppressed people. He will save the weak and helpless ones.  So, self, remain faithful.

3.  How can I help someone?
What the tempter promises will always fail in the end.  Temptation promises so many things that will never really fulfill the inner needs of a person.  Something is always missing.

Bible Chapter: Zephaniah 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The prophet Zephaniah ministered during the reign of King Josiah.  Judah was consumed with worshiping false gods and violence.  As a nation, they were not concerned about what God required.  One of the problems was priests who pretended to be following God’s commands, but were also worshiping false gods.  God said he would crush Judah and Jerusalem and destroy every last trace of their Baal worship.  He also said he would put an end to the idolatrous priests.  They claimed to follow the LORD, but then they worship Baal as well.  This caused many people in Judah to participate in generic forms of religious worship as they pretended to worship the Lord in truth. This hypocritical mixture of worship was evil in God’s eyes.  God will never tolerate those who claim to be His followers but also worship any other god.  God will judge them.  God expects His followers to be spiritually separated from anything else.  Because of their sin, God promised judgement.  He promised that their silver and gold will not save them on that day.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
A call to repentance
The prophet told them (and by implication all who call themselves followers of God) to seek the Lord and follow His commands.  All believers must seek to do what is right and to live in obedience and humility.  The Lord is the only source of protection.  God promised that those who reject Him will receive the wages of their pride.  They have mocked God’s kingdom.  They will be terrified at what God does.  Their pride will fail them when they see the utter ruin God brings.  In this call to repentance I see a correlation to the celebration of Communion.  The Bible says that each participant should examine their heart and make things right with God.  It is a call for continual course-correction in life.  It is so easy to drift spiritually.  Many fail because they don’t keep making sure that they have not allowed the tempter to pull them away from God’s path.

3.  How can I help someone?
Spiritual examination is required if we are going to stay close to the Lord.  We are all subject to temptation.  We are all able to look at the pleasures of sin and forget the consequences.  It is too easy to drift if we don’t keep our eyes on the Lord and His blessings and promises.

Bible Chapter: Habakkuk 3

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Habakkuk wrote a song to the Lord.  Yes, his world was filled with evil, but he learned to live by faith and trust God. There is always hope in God.  It is important for every generation of believers to live in a fresh sense of the power and presence of God, and not just remembering spiritual history they have learned.  Since God never changes, every generation needs a fresh experience of God’s supernatural intervention in life.  Today, as well as in the time of the prophet, people have not experienced God’s power for a long time. The miracles are only history.  So much in the church has been reduced to form and process.  They needed back then, and the church world today needs to experience a fresh display of God’s power.  We need a renewed sense of God’s presence and power.  We need a powerful revival to overcome the apathy of our modern church world.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
As I think about the world Habakkuk wrote about, and the modern church world, the ending verses jump out to me.
Habakkuk 3:17-19 NKJV
17 Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls-- 18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. 19 The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, And He will make me walk on my high hills. To the Chief Musician. With my stringed instruments.
For years churches have faced something pathetic called “worship wars”.  People have fussed over how they worship the Lord.  The big battle has been over music.  In this process the church world has forgotten, or completely missed the concept of worship.  Just because someone is singing does not mean they are worshiping.  So much of the focus has been on me and what I get out of it, instead of focusing on God and what HE gets out of it.  The prophet wrote that, even if everything fails, I will rejoice in the Lord and I will be strong in the Lord.  Habakkuk let his readers know that he did not serve God because of what God could give him. Because of his love for God he served the Creator.  God is worthy of praise because of who He is, not just for what He does.  The sidetracking of the time and energy of the church over styles of music has caused the church to shrink back from the real battle.  The Lord is our Savior and source of strength for daily life.

3.  How can I help someone?
The prophet’s ending verses in this book are a real encouragement to life.  There is no person who has every lived that didn’t face challenges.  Habakkuk knew that god was worthy of the praise, simply because of who He is.

Bible Chapter: Habakkuk 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Habakkuk wrote about living by faith and trusting God’s judgment.  It is a unique book that is not a prophecy speaking to a nation.  This book is a dialogue between the prophet and God.  Jeremiah lived during the same time as Habakkuk, but Habakkuk does not address his message to  spiritually backslidden and rebellious people as other prophets did.  His writing about his conversation with God is aimed at those who had remained faithful to God.  God was about to take actions against their sinful nation.  Habakkuk had struggled with the thought that God had not judged the sin of the nation, and also that God said He would use wicked people like the Babylonians to punish the nation.  Then he understood that God would deal with the wickedness in His time and way.
Part of the struggle for the prophet was his wondering how long he had to cry for help.  He longed for God to do something to stop the social corruption and spiritual rebellion.  These questions, did not come from a disgruntled or defiant attitude, but from a submissive and sincere heart of faith in God that truly longed for answers.  God assured Habakkuk that He would do something and the issue would be settled.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Throughout the book, Habakkuk expresses his faith in God’s sovereignty.  He learned to trust God’s judgment. One of the key parts of the book is found in the end of Habakkuk 2:4 NKJV
Behold the proud, His soul is not upright in him; But the just shall live by his faith.
The Apostle Paul was used by God to start many churches.  He wrote several letters to churches that are recorded in the New Testament.  Paul taught justification by faith. This is the truth that people are made right with God by receiving Jesus as personal Lord and Savior, and not by any good works of our own.  A key theme throughout the Bible is that God wants His followers to live by faith.  Instead of living on pride, God’s followers must live in devotion to God as they trust Him for everything.
Galatians 3:11 NKJV
11 But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith."

3.  How can I help someone?
God will answer questions.  We don’t always get them when we want.  We don’t always like the answers.  But, God will help us learn and understand the truths we need to know.  Habakkuk was not a famous leader.  He was a regular person.  God responded to his needs and questions.

Bible Chapter: Nahum 3

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
This book is a proclamation of judgement against Nineveh.  How sad that it was known as the city of murder and lies.  They were a city filled with prostitution, immorality and witchcraft.  It was a city filled with sin.  And, sin attracts sin.  Sin never exists in isolation.  One sin against God will lead to another.  It leads to acceptance of sin and mockery of all who speak against it.  Sin spreads like an infectious disease.  All of their wickedness opened the door to demons and evil spirits that controlled the people’s lives.  They reached the place where there was no power to protect them.  The only direction for them to go was to crumble and be gone.
They made themselves God’s enemy.  He said He would reveal their evil and they would be in shame.  The world would know how evil they really were.  They would lie in ruins.  Their doom was sure.  Their wealth would not save them. There was no healing for their wounds; their injuries are fatal.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Politicians can make things legal.  They can write laws and say certain activities are permitted and no one can speak against them.  They can punish those who speak for righteousness.  We are seeing that happen today in rapid succession.  I am amazed at the things people are legalizing.  But, they often forget that they are not the ultimate authority.  God has given us His standards for righteousness.  We are accountable to God who will judge everyone.  I cannot get caught up in the rush to legalize lots of sin and then say it is permissible.  God’s immutable standards cannot be mocked.  History records many powerful civilizations that are now just a memory, an archeological dig in the past.

3.  How can I help someone?
Don’t listen to the latest opinion poll.  It doesn’t matter what is popular.  Listen to what God says.  God will not be mocked.

Bible Chapter: Nahum 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God gave Nahum a vision about Nineveh.  Here God calls Himself jealous and filled with vengeance.  But we also must see that God is slow to get angry.  The word jealous does not mean that God is petty and selfish.  It shows His care for His people and His desire to protect them and not share them.  He takes revenge against sinners who work to destroy God’s work, especially those who are brutal to people.  We see God’s strength of character in that He is slow to anger. God is patient in that He gives sinners time to repent.  God’s longing is that people will turn from their wicked ways.  But, at some time judgement and “payday” comes when people will be held accountable for their actions.  Who can stand before his fierce anger? No one can.  While it might seem as if God is filled with wrath, we see that the Lord is good.  He is a strong refuge when trouble comes, never abandoning those who trust in him.
A warning to Nineveh:  Your enemy is coming to crush you. Watch the roads. Prepare your defenses.  Except nothing will work, you will be destroyed for your sin.  Your city will be plundered and empty. Your wealth will be all gone.  You have made yourself an enemy of God.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Here are some interesting things I discovered.  We first hear about Nineveh when Jonah was sent to preach a message of judgement.  That story ended with repentance.  From the king on down they repented and God held back His judgement.  Nineveh was an important place, as it was the capital of the Assyrian Empire.
In the ancient world the Assyrians were known for their extreme cruelty to nations they conquered.
They would thoughtlessly slaughter multitudes of people.  They took many as captives. Many died in captivity.  They tortured captured leaders.  This doesn’t sound like the place where Jonah preached.  But there is an important point to learn.  Their repentance only lasted for a short time.  Their repentance didn’t make a lasting impact, for the city returned to its wicked ways. Because of that, their day of judgment was fast approaching.
What is the lesson and application?  It is very important to repent.  It is vitally important to continue to live the life God calls you to after repentance.  It does no good to just say “I’m sorry” and then return to a sinful lifestyle.

3.  How can I help someone?
Often as I write old songs come to mind.  Here’s what I am thinking of: Turn your eyes upon Jesus.  Look full in His wonderful face.  And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

Bible Chapter: Micah 7

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Micah found himself in a sad and desperate condition.  He said that all the godly people had disappeared. He felt that there was not one honest person is left on earth.  He was living among murderers who even hated their own brothers.  How low could a society get?  He exclaimed his misery.  He grieved over the corruption of his society.  It had become immoral, violent and dishonest.  Very few still served God.  He grieved the loss of righteousness.
At the same time, Micah said he looked to the Lord for help. He had confidence that God would save Him.  He knew God was hearing his prayers.  He could watch in hope for the Lord.  Even though he was hemmed in by a morally sick society that was spiritually lost, He put his faith in God.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Micah prayed for the nation.  He prayed that God would shepherd the people.  Here we see his prayer, his humble plea asking God to deliver.  He longed to see God be their leader again and the people following the One Who had made them a great people.  Micah believed that some day all the nations of the world will stand amazed at what the LORD will do.  God will show His mighty power and the others will be embarrassed at their feeble abilities.
There were many idols, many false gods that the nations were serving. Micah asked the powerful question:  Where is another God like you?  A God who pardons sin?  Only the true God would delight in showing His unfailing love and compassion.  Many today struggle at the concept of God giving of Himself, of His suffering on the cross for us to give us pardon and eternal life.  He will fulfill His promises.  It is awesome that we can know Him as our Personal Savior.

3.  How can I help someone?
God answers prayer.  There are people praying for you.  Respond to God’s call in your life to surrender to Him.

Bible Chapter: Micah 5 & 6

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Every year at Christmas time there is a verse from the prophets that is read often.  Micah 5:2 tells us that Bethlehem, though it is little among Judah, will bring forth the One to be Ruler in Israel.  Micah prophesied that a godly ruler would come out of Bethlehem and fulfill God’s promises to His people.  We see this fulfilled in the birth of Jesus.  In the midst of this exciting prophecy of the coming Messiah, there is also the sad news that Israel will be abandoned.  This would happen and Israel would go its way and suffer the consequences of its actions.  Somehow the nation would have to survive without the blessings God planned for them as they waited for the Promised One.
The Promised One will be their peace.  Jesus is the Prince of Peace.  He will bring lasting peace to Israel.  He gives God’s peace to each one that accepts His sacrifice for their sins on the cross and receives God’s forgiveness.  Jesus sets believers free from eternal punishment.
God did say He had a case, a dispute against the people. He required that they come forward to hear His accusations.  Could they possibly justify their evil actions? They had, through their actions, rejected the covenant with God.  As I read this it seemed to be a very scary situation to be in.  For God to say He has a case against someone means that they are in trouble.  God is never wrong and only brings accusations against the guilty.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I remember when I was in college that we learned a chorus based on Micah 6:8.  It is an excellent summary of God’s expectation of His people.  What does God require?  Require, that’s a strong word.  He expects us to do (act) justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.  He is speaking of our actions and motivations.  It is a clear and complete statement of God’s expectations. God expects believers to be fair and honest, to love mercy as we show genuine compassion, and walk humbly with God.  We sang that song a lot. This was during a time of a powerful move of God among the students and it spoke volumes to us.  This passage is an amazing message of Who God is and what He requires of His followers.  It is some excellent practical teaching about the life of a believer.

3.  How can I help someone?
Look at Who God is, how He reveals Himself.  Look at His expectations.  The world would be much better off if people would simply follow God’s ways.

Bible Chapter: Micah 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The prophet spoke directly and harshly to the leaders.  Listen, you are supposed to know right from wrong.  Sadly, they were the ones who hated good and loved evil.  They were the opposite of what they should have been.  He told them that there would be a time when they would beg the Lord for help.  Then a critical question:  Do you really expect him to answer? With all the evil they had done, Micah said God won’t even look at them.  The false prophets were leading the people astray!  To gain acceptance and popularity, they promised peace for those who gave things to them.  But, they spoke evil on those who wouldn’t play their game.  So, they were about to lose everything.  These were the people who should have been setting the example.  Rather, they were misleading the people to be further away from God.
These false prophets made the people feel good about themselves and comfortable in their sinful lifestyles.  They gave them a false sense of hope and security.  They were actually encouraging the people to sin.  This is another place where I see a real comparison between the time of the writing and life today.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Micah also spoke of a time known as the last days.  He spoke prophetically about the end of earthly history when God will return and rule the entire world.  It will be an amazing time, a time people long for.  It will be a time of peace, when goodness will prevail.  People of all nations will worship God.  Jerusalem will be the center of worship and of God’s government. Jesus will return and destroy all evil and to establish his reign.  Jerusalem, the most fought-over land in the world, will be a place of peace.
God wants His people to live and walk in the name of the Lord.  He wants us to live in a lifestyle that clearly shows God in everyday life.  True Christians are God’s representatives.  Through their lives the world will see His character and victory over evil.  This is the way to live.

3.  How can I help someone?
Look at what really brings peace.  Look at WHO really brings peace.  Real peace is not simply a lack of conflict.  It is the peace that God puts in the hearts of faithful followers, often in times of great turmoil.

Bible Chapter: Micah 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Micah was a prophet from a rural area, the small town of Moresheth Gath in southern Judah, who challenged the ungodly behavior of corrupt leaders, false prophets and dishonest merchants.  They also had ungodly priests and unjust judges.  It was not a good situation for a nation that was supposed to be worshiping and following God.  Micah preached against injustice and oppression.  He spoke against greed, immorality and idol worship.  Micah’s main theme was judgment.  But he also accented God’s mercy. Yes, he gave prophecies of doom, but he also prophesied of salvation and hope to God’s people.  The capital cities of Samaria and Jerusalem were both spiritually rebellious.  They had basically abandoned God.  So, God’s judgement was coming.
Micah cared about the people and the lives they were living.  He wept over their sin.  He grieved over Samaria’s fall.  Their rejection of God caused him to be heartbroken.  They were told that they would shave their heads, which was a sign of sorrow, for great grief was coming.  Rejecting God always brings terrible consequences.
Micah spoke against the false prophets were criticizing him for speaking of coming judgment.  They insisted that God’s people would never suffer shame and disgrace.  They twisted the truth of God’s love and forgiveness to say that He would never judge them, that He was too loving to do that.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
There are some people who are very evil.  We see them in many places.  Micah pronounced doom and woe on those who were using their influence to take advantage of others, those who were planning iniquity.  There were wealthy people who manipulated things that hurt people, and they did not hesitate to cheat and deceive others in order to gain more.  Their greed caused them to not care that others suffered.  God treated them just as they had treated others.  This is a good illustration and warning to be careful not to be greedy and abuse others.

3.  How can I help someone?
When you have excess provision in life, don’t become in love with things to the point where you have to have more and more.  There is an old story where a very wealthy person was asked how much money was enough.  His answer was “one dollar more”.  That is a dangerous situation for a person to find themselves in.

Bible Chapter: Jonah 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Finally, Jonah was ready to listen when the LORD spoke to him the second time.  Yes, God had his attention.  He got up and went to Nineveh to deliver the message God had for the city.  This time Jonah obeyed the Lord.  When he entered the city, he exclaimed to the people that in forty days Nineveh would be destroyed!  The amazing thing is that the people of Nineveh believed God’s message and expressed sorrow for their sin.  Even the king got involved and sent a decree for all to fast and mourn.  He called for all to pray earnestly to God and turn from their evil ways.  Perhaps God would change His mind and not destroy them.  Perhaps God would show mercy.   When God saw their repentance, He did not carry out the destruction he had threatened.  He spared the city.
This is where many people quit reading.  Even though this is a very well known story, many people are only familiar with the first three chapters of the book. They are surprised when they read chapter four.  God’s forgiveness upset Jonah, and he became very angry with God.  He complained to the Lord.  He knew God was merciful and would forgive if they repented.  It is amazing to think that Jonah didn’t what that to happen.  He knew that God didn’t really want to have to destroy the city.  Jonah was so angry at what God did that he said He should just kill him.  God told Jonah that it was right for Him to have mercy on the 120,000 inhabitants of the city.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
JONAH’S ANGER AT GOD’S MERCY
This is an amazing ending to the story.  God used Jonah, even though He knew he would not want to go there.  He used Jonah even though Jonah hated the residents of Nineveh.  He used an unwilling and stubborn vessel.  God wants to use people to advance His purpose.  He can use any of us.  We must be willing to be used and be happy when God shows His compassion and mercy. If God wasn’t merciful and filled with grace, none of us would have a chance.

3.  How can I help someone?
See the mercy and compassion of God. See how He even reaches out to the people that others would write off as worthless.  Receive His mercy.  Show it to all.

Bible Chapter: Jonah 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God gave Jonah a command to go to the wicked city of Nineveh and tell them of God’s impending judgement. Many people think Jonah went there to preach, but his message was one of God’s judgement.  Jonah was rebellious and got on a ship going the other way.  The book says he was hoping to escape from the Lord.  How can anyone do that?  God sent a major storm to the sea and eventually, after much discussion with the sailors on the ship, Jonah convinced them to throw him into the water.  The storm died immediately and the sailors, who were not believers, were shocked.  Jonah got divine transportation in the stomach of a great fish.  I find it interesting that chapter two starts out with “Then Jonah prayed to the Lord”.  Yes, God got his attention.  Yes, Jonah started listening to God.  God told the fish to vomit Jonah on the shore.  He had to be a real mess at that time.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
This is one of the best-known Bible stories.  Jonah just didn’t like what God told him to do.  He didn’t like the Ninevites.  He didn’t like that fact that God is so gracious that He could actually forgive them.  He thought he could just ignore God and go his own direction.  He had a major awakening when God got his attention.  Being swallowed by a fish would do that.  Doing what God wants is always the best.  Stubbornness won’t win out over God.

3.  How can I help someone?
Know that God cares about all people.  Yes, He will judge sin, but His greatest desire is that people will listen to what He has to say and repent.  That is always good advice to repent.

Bible Chapter: Obadiah 1

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
This is the shortest book in the Old Testament.  God gave Obadiah a vision concerning the land of Edom.  This is one of the few prophecies aimed at a nation other than Israel and Judah.  God told Edom that their pride was going to bring judgement.  God said He would judge them because of the violence they did to their close relatives in Israel.  They would be filled with shame and destroyed.  When there was a need, Edom refused to help.  They should have been a friend, but they acted like one of Israel’s enemies.  They gloated over Israel’s problems.  They killed people trying to escape. They helped the enemies.  All their evil deeds would come back to them.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Verse 3 is interesting.  The NLT puts it this way:
“You have been deceived by your own pride because you live in a rock fortress and make your home high in the mountains. ‘Who can ever reach us way up here?’ you ask boastfully.”
They felt they had all the protection they could ever need.  They were extremely proud.  But, this says that they were not trusting God.  They felt they didn’t need God.  God’s response to them was that, no matter what they did or where they went, He would find them and give them the punishment they deserve.  This is another message that we cannot hide from God, and yes, we really do need HIM.

3.  How can I help someone?
God knows what is going on in life.  He pays attention to everyone.  Here was a nation that thought they were going to be just fine. They didn’t admit that they needed Him or that He was paying attention to what they were doing.

Bible Chapter: Amos 9

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
I am reminded of the game we use to play called hide and seek.  We loved to play it in our house, in the dark.  Can I hide so you can’t find me?  God told the people that they would not be able to hide from Him. No matter where they went they would be found and judgement would be handed out.  God told the doubters that they would not escape.  The sinners will die.  Those who say, “Nothing bad will happen to us” will find out the truth.
We also see God’s amazing love as the book ends with a promise of restoration.  There will come a day when the nation will come back and be blessed of God in ways they can’t imagine.  God’s desire is never to punish people, but to see them live in obedience and holiness.  God wants what is best for people, and the best is always what He tells people to do.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Trust and Obey.  This is the title to an old song we used to sing.  It was written by John H. Sammis.  I don’t have to be the greatest theologian in the world, but I do need to trust and obey God.
When we walk with the Lord In the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way;
  While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey.
Not a shadow can rise, Not a cloud in the skies, But His smile quickly drives it away;
  Not a doubt or a fear, Not a sigh or a tear, Can abide while we trust and obey.
Not a burden we bear, Not a sorrow we share, But our toil He doth richly repay;
  Not a grief or a loss, Not a frown or a cross, But is blest if we trust and obey.
But we never can prove The delights of His love, Until all on the altar we lay;
  For the favor He shows, And the joy He bestows, Are for them who will trust and obey.
Then in fellowship sweet We will sit at His feet, Or we’ll walk by His side in the way;
  What He says we will do; Where He sends, we will go, Never fear, only trust and obey.
Trust and obey, For there’s no other way To be happy in Jesus, But to trust and obey.

3.  How can I help someone?
Can we really trust God?  Yes?  Then, why wouldn’t we?  There are many excuses given why people don’t live for God.  None of them are worth anything.  With God’s help as your Lord, you can trust and obey.

Bible Chapter: Amos 7 & 8

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The sovereign Lord showed Amos two visions of God’s judgment on Israel.  They were a swarm of locust and extreme heat.  Both would bring great destruction and mass starvation.
As I was reading, one passage jumped out to me.  It is when God showed Amos a vision of the Lord standing beside a wall that had been built using a plumb line.  God was using a plumb line to see if the wall was straight.  There is one thing about a plumb line, that, when used correctly, it will always establish a perfect vertical line.  It will always show if a building project is straight or out of plumb.  God said He would test the people with His spiritual plumb line.  It was His unchanging standard of truth righteousness to see if they were being obedient or sinning.  God’s plumb line of truth never changes.  When He checked, Israel was found to be out of plumb and crooked by God’s standards.  One of the reasons they were out of line with God’s standards was the spiritual leader, Amaziah.  He was a priest who openly rejected God’s prophet and his message.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Amos 8:5 talks about the Sabbath.  This was a very important time for them to set aside a day each week when they would worship God, when they would focus on HIM.  But, they were ignoring the Sabbath and breaking God’s rules.  The merchants were anxious for the Sabbath to be over so they could sell and make more money.  Christians have long established Sunday as a day of worship.  It used to be a well-respected and unique day.  It used to be a very special day. Now, it is almost impossible to tell the difference between Sunday and any other day of the week.  Anything and everything happens on Sunday.  It is not a priority for worship and rest.  It is not a priority over recreation or convenience.  People attend church when it fits their schedule.  They easily let almost anything interfere with worshiping God and spending time in His presence with others who love and serve Him.  If believers in Jesus would change their priorities regarding a day of rest and worship, many thing would change for the good.  God needs to be our top priority.

3.  How can I help someone?
Especially speaking to those who claim to follow Jesus, inspect your schedule and priorities.  Do you make time for worship and studying God’s Word to be high on your list?  It is an automatic that you will go to church and be actively involved?  Do you have to figure out if you can make it to church this week or not?  It should be a given, short of emergency, that you are in God’s house.