Scripture Study with Bibi, Genesis 13:1-18

“Almost all of our sorrows spring out of our relations with other people. There is no more mistaken path to happiness than worldliness.”  - Arthur Schopenhauer

Following his near disastrous experience in Egypt, where Abram found himself and his party being escorted out of the land by Pharaoh's men (Genesis 12:20), we now find Abram returning to Canaan. This brought him back to the highlands of Bethel, where his first tent and altar had been set up.

Abram owned up to his mistake in Egypt. He went there relying on his own resources, but soon found himself resorting to lying and dishonesty to keep his family alive. By returning to Bethel, Abram acknowledged he should have stayed there and waited out the famine (Genesis 12:10) in complete dependence on God, instead.

Now, along with Abram and his wife Sarai, was his nephew Lot. He was the grandson of Terah, and son of Haran (Abram's brother). How did Lot and Abram end up together? Lot's father (Haran) passed away unexpectedly so he was taken in by relatives. 

After his father's death, Lot's grandfather (Terah) decided to move the entire family to Canaan, but they ended up in Harran instead. If you recall back in Genesis 12:1-4, following Terah's death, the Lord spoke to Abram telling him to go on to Canaan with the promise of making him into a great nation. 

Thus, Abram set out, taking Lot and his family along. But as they say, all good things must come to an end. And so it was between Abram and Lot. This week's study will examine the separation of Abram and Lot in Genesis, chapter 13. If you haven't already done so, read the chapter before completing the questions!

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.

Now, this week's study:

Both families of Abram and Lot left Egypt and headed toward the Negev, the southern desert or wilderness area of Judah. And, as is the case many times, change can cause problems, especially in families.

1.) What changed in the relationship between Abram and Lot? What lesson could we learn from this? (Genesis 13:1-5)

2.) Due their abundant success, a problem eventually arose  between Abram's and Lot's families. What was the great friction between them? (Genesis 13:6-7).

3.) Abram, being the elder and wiser, and in true courtesy, kindness, and unselfishness, came up with a solution. What was it? What message does this send across to our own daily lives? (Genesis 13: 8-9)

4.) No doubt Lot was a good man in character. However, even good men have their faults. Lot's was worldliness, and it cost him dearly. What was Lot's decision in regards to Abram's offer? What do you think was Lot's motivation for his choice? (Genesis 13-10-11)

5.) Abram should have had first choice since he was an older relative, but he graciously gave it to Lot. After the two parted ways, where did each man go? What do their choices say about the two men? (Genesis 13:12).

6.) The towns of Sodom and Gomorrah stood in beautiful and fertile country. Even so, there was a problem with the people living there. What was the problem? (Genesis 13:13).

7.) Meanwhile, after he and Lot parted ways, Abram, the chosen man of God, was now alone.  He had proved his humility and self-sacrificing spirit. Though it appeared, at first, that Lot got the better deal, we now see this wasn't true.

What was the difference between what Lot received from Abram, and what Abram had gained from the Lord? What did Abram do as an act of thankfulness after God's promise had been confirmed to him? (Genesis 13:14-18)

This concludes our study this week. Next time we will examine Genesis, chapter 14. There's a lot of information within this chapter, including Abram’s rescue of Lot from captivity. Therefore, I highly recommend that you read it beforehand.

Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: 1 John 2:15-17; Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:2; Jude 1:19; Titus 2:12 

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

The Essentials of the Redeemed Life

"I will sing of mercy and judgment;"  - Psalm 101:1 (KJV)

Mercy and judgment are the essential elements of the redeemed life. Together they form the basis of its meaning. And, though it might seem strange at first glance, both are inspiration for true harmony in any life.

They signify the necessary moral or righteous combination between the character and work of God. As Father, He is not only concerned with the forgiveness of His children, but with their development (John 3:18).

As the Holy One, He is concerned, not only with their legal absolution of blame, but with establishing actual goodness inside them (Colossians 3:12).

Therefore, mercy and judgment are always related, and in remarkable contrast to common human qualities. Because at its best, human mercy can't judge, and human judgment cannot show mercy (Romans 2:1). 

Scripture: Titus 3:5; James 2:13;  Hebrews 4:16;  Lamentations 3:22-23; Colossians 3:13; 

Prayer: Dear Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. I will praise you with all my heart, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever. Amen. 

God bless you always,

Rona

Wide is the Gate, Broad is the Road

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it."  - Matthew 7:13 

The gate is wide and the road spacious. There is ample freedom to pass through. One will find more than enough room, as there is nothing to block the way. The fundamental truths of faithlessness, in those who consider them, disregard all the gracious discoveries which God has revealed in scriptures.

Those lacking moral restraint in behavior, derive gratification by their own temporal, sensual, and corrupt passions. Instead they would rather walk according to the beat of this world, while carrying out their lusty, fleshly desires (Proverbs 12:28).

There are unrighteous individuals who fail to comply with their commitments and obligations. They lead restless, bitter, and contentious lives in their business and/or personal relations. In any case, they do not express love to anyone (1 John 4:8).

There are also ungodly persons, who do not reach out to the Lord, nor walk according to His will. They rarely worship Him in church, and seldom pray privately to Him. These men and women never turn to the Bible, obey his commandments, take pleasure in His promises, or fear his warnings.

All of these souls are walking in the wide way that leads to destruction, living in the excesses of their carnal appetites. They neglect the great salvation, and rob themselves of all heavenly joy and pleasure that flows from knowing fellowship and intimacy with God (1 Peter 1:15).

It is true that many in the world today are living carefree and comfortably, pursuing material things, and gathering up treasures for the present. Still, thanks to God, many have been awakened from their dangerous security (1 John 2:15-17).

They have been delivered from darkness to wonderful light, persuaded to choose the best portion, which can never be taken away, and bound by sovereign grace, and give all of their attention to finding that peace that can only be found in God. 

Scripture: Psalm 16:11; John 14:6; Mark 1:3; Job 23:11; Psalm 23:3 

Prayer: Dear God, lead me always down the right path, the way that leads to You. And though I may occasionally find myself veering off-course, I trust in You to lovingly steer me back. Amen.

May God always bless you,

Judith

Scripture Study with Bibi, Genesis 12:10-20

"The glory of God's faithfulness is that no sin of ours has ever made Him unfaithful."  - Charles Spurgeon

We have arrived at an interesting place in our studies. This week we will delve into the story of Abram and his wife, Sarai, in Egypt. Here, we shall witness the call by which Abram was lifted from the land of his birth into the land of promise.

By design this served to test Abram's faith and obedience; separate and set him apart, both, for God and for special duties and favors which were planned for him. Great lives are developed by great promises through discipline and instruction. 

In Abram's case, the promise given to him offers three distinctive features: it sheds light on the rewards of life, it reveals the oneness of God with His people, and it demonstrates the effect of the present over the future.

In our lesson today, we shall see that life presents many temptations and trials. Some may be due to temporal, or worldly hardships and tragedies. Difficulty applying the principles of religion to moral problems of life can be a cause, as well.

Still, positives may be derived from the negatives. Valuable moral lessons can be learned from our experiences. If we grow and mature in our habitual intent of pleasing God, and our hearts are sincere, God is able to deliver and pardon us. 

This will all become manifest in our study of Genesis 12:10-20. As I always do, I strongly suggest that you read the material prior to the lesson. A good grasp of the people, places, and events will immensely enhance your comprehension.

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of your truth. Amen.

Now, this week's study:

1.) Shortly after Abram arrived in Canaan he was forced to leave there. What caused him to do this? Where did he go? (Genesis 12:10).

2.) Up to this point in his journey, Abram had faithfully followed God's commands. Now, on his way from Canaan to his new destination, he began to feel anxious and succumbed to his own heart. What occurred between verses 11-13? What was Abram's reasoning for his actions? 

3). Abram's scheme then took an unexpected turn. What happened to his wife Sarai? To make matters worse, how was Abram compensated for his sin? (Genesis 12: 14-16).

4.) Although Abram had strayed from God's directive, God did not forsake him. What did God do to deliver Abram? (Genesis 12:17).

5.) After suffering God's punishment, Pharaoh admonishes Abram for his trickery. What happened between Pharaoh, Abram, and Sarai after this point? No doubt Pharaoh also learned a valuable lesson here. What might that be? (Genesis 12:18-20). 

This concludes our study this week. Next time, we will begin Genesis, chapter 13, in earnest. There we shall concern ourselves with Abram and Lot. I encourage you to read the material ahead of time. Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:13; Deuteronomy 7:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; Numbers 23:19; Psalm 33:4

Closing prayer:  Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

By Faith, Like Moses

"Moses spent forty years in the king's palace thinking that he was somebody; then he lived forty years in the wilderness finding out that without GOD he was a nobody; finally he spent forty more years discovering how a nobody with GOD can be a somebody."   -Dwight L. Moody

Of the nature and effects of true faith, we can learn much from the example of timeless believers. They demonstrate that their faith had a powerful influence on their behavior (actions). Among those individuals, who performed, through faith, important services, and endured severe hardship and hardship, Moses commands a large presence.

Scripture declares that, "by faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward" (Hebrews 11:24-26).

This narrative of Moses shows that he chose the torment of a saint rather than the pleasures of a sinner. From his situation in Egypt he had every opportunity to enjoy sinful pleasures in great measure before he openly affixed himself to the people of God.

He also could have enjoyed a high degree of worldly honor. When he was an infant, he was accepted into the royal family of Egypt, being looked upon and treated as the son of Pharaoh's daughter (Exodus 2:10). If he had chosen, he might have become king of one the most most famous kingdoms of the world.

Moses might have enjoyed a large portion of earthly riches. Egypt was a very wealthy kingdom. Instead, he "regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt." As these words imply, all the treasures in the land were his for the asking. 

Sinful pleasures, such as: elegant palaces, expensive clothing, servants to attend his every need, drink, and public recognition and adulation could have been his without question. However, Moses chose not to indulge in these pleasures, but rather to suffer with the people of God (Israel).

Unquestionably, Moses' behavior differed immensely from the general conduct of men. To many, his actions appear unheard of and unreasonable. As to the way he conducted himself, whether it was the effect of knowledge or ignorance, foolishness or wisdom, sinfulness or goodness, we can't determine unless we know why he was persuaded to choose what he suffered, instead of what he might have taken pleasure in.

From the description of his character given in Scriptures, as well as the account of his conduct, it is obvious that Moses was an intelligent and capable man. Therefore, we can rule out any mental weakness or disadvantage.

Nor was he lacking or unaware of the proper information in regards to his choices. Moses was well familiar, both, with the opportunities that were bestowed upon him as a member of the royal family of Egypt, and the afflicted and shameful condition of the people of God.

Perhaps, Moses might have preferred the sorrows of a saint to the pleasures of a sinner because he had never been tempted to choose the delights of the latter, instead of the former? We know this cannot be due to what we know about his childhood (as the adopted son of Pharaoh's daughter), and his renown for wisdom as an adult in Egypt.

The temptation to become a sinner rather than a saint could not have been greater for him. With his competence, all of this information at his disposal, and abundant temptations, why did Moses choose as he did?  The true answer can be found in Hebrews 11:24, "by faith."

Some might ask, "How could faith cause Moses to make his decision?" This may be answered thusly, by faith Moses realized the truth concerning what he might have enjoyed as a sinner. He saw that he could take pleasure in sin for only a season. And that, by choosing sin he would deprive himself of every joy and hope during his brief and vain life.

By faith, he knew that a sinful life would displease his holy Creator and bring endless torment and despair upon himself. By faith Moses saw the purpose and glory of God, and to promote this he decided to suffer as a saint rather than revel in sin. Besides, Moses could never receive a greater reward than he would enjoy in the most perfect manifestation of the divine glory.

In order to achieve his purposes and display his glory, God will produce the greatest measure of knowledge, holiness and happiness that can exist in us. Thereby, believers are to be willing to sacrifice and suffer whatever God determines, as well as do what he requires, in order to advance the greatest concerns of his kingdom, as did Moses, "by faith."

Scripture: Luke 1:37; Joshua 1:9; 1 Peter 5:7; 1 Corinthians 2:5; Hebrews 11:1

Prayer: Dear God,  look upon me and be merciful to me, As Your custom is toward those who love Your name. Direct my steps by Your word, And let no iniquity have dominion over me. Amen.  -Psalm 119:132-133 (NKJV)

May God always bless you,

Judith

Scripture Study with Bibi: Genesis 12:1-9

“God does not choose people because of their ability, but because of their availability.”  - Brother Andrew

This week, we begin the study of Genesis, chapters 13-19. But first, I feel it would be helpful to set the stage for the chapters to come. So, let us backtrack for a moment, shall we?

Chapter 12 of Genesis marks a starting off point of sorts. The sacred writer shifts from the history of the world, and devoting the rest of Genesis to the biographies of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.

The one common, distinguishing, feature of these men was their faith in God. Abram (Abraham), the man whom we are now focused on, is the most prominent of those mentioned in the Old Testament.

While other books in the Bible reference others, Adam 7 times and Noah 8 times, for example, Abraham (Abram) is mentioned more than 100 times.

Abram's native country was Chaldea. It neighbored the most remarkable and highly civilized country of those times, Egypt. He was born in or near a city called "Ur of the Chaldees."

Genesis 12:1-9 recounts the "Call of Abram." The backstory here is nearly four centuries long. During that time, the human family was renewed after the flood, reproduced, spread far and wide, then proceeded to corrupt itself.

The time had now arrived for God to intervene in order to preserve the true religion, and prevent humanity from once again retreating toward destruction.

It's important to mention that before the coming of Jesus Christ, the call of Abram was the most significant event in the moral and spiritual world.

A problem arose in the period between the flood and the call of Abram. The wickedness in man's heart redirected itself toward idolatry and carnality. Such inclinations presented the threat of extinction for the worship of the one true God.

It appeared that all knowledge of the one true God was headed for certain elimination. However, Abram's story was just getting started. The most important fact in his life was his strong belief in one God, and only one God.

Abram was chosen by God among all people on earth to be the father of a mighty nation, and the person to establish a great religion. And through his seed, future revelations were to be given until the coming of the the Messiah.

Thus, we are now up to date. Before attempting the assignment, I urge you to read Genesis, chapter 12 carefully. Our study this week will only include the "Call of Abram" (Genesis 12:1-9). We will cover Genesis 12:10-20 next time. 

Let's begin our study with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of your truth. Amen.

Now, this week's study:

1.) The call of the Lord came to Abram while he was still living in Ur. He was asked to do three things and then leave on a long, religious journey. What were they? (Genesis 12:1)

2.) God made a magnificent covenant with Abram that included what important promises? (Genesis 12:2-3)

3.) Abram heeded God's call and set out from Haran (Ur of the Chaldees). However, he did not depart alone on his journey. How old was Abram when he left home? Who were his companions? Where did they travel to? (Genesis 12:4-5)

4.) Abram eventually arrived at Shechem, a Hivite city under Canaanite possession. There the Lord appeared to him. This fulfilled God’s promise to Abram at the time of his call (see Genesis 12:1-3).What did the Lord say to him? What did Abram proceed to do? (Genesis 12:6-7)

5.) From the great tree Moreh, Abram moves to a hill east of Bethel, and makes camp there. What did he do there? Where did Abram proceed to from here? (Genesis 12:8-9)

This concludes our study this week. Next time, we will pick up in Genesis 12, closing the chapter with Abram and Sarai in Egypt (Genesis 12:10-20). I encourage you to read the material ahead of time. Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:9; Matthew 22:14; Romans 8:28; 1 Timothy 1:12; Philippians 4:13

Closing prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen

May you all be generously blessed!

Bibi

Christian Life is a War!

“Let me be on my guard when the world puts on a loving face, for it will, if possible, betray me as it did my Master, with a kiss.”  - Charles H. Spurgeon

You, I, and every believer in Jesus Christ, play an important part in communicating the fact that he is the wellspring of that spiritual strength gained only by faith. However, this can only occur if our relationship with God is maintained by a deep passion.

This means that the believer must be strong, it is our duty to be so. Any show of weakness is our sin. Why talk about strength, weakness, and duty? Soon after one comes to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, they realize they have become a participant in a raging war.

The fact of the matter is this: Christian life is a war. The true child of God finds himself or herself engaged in battle with the hosts of Satan. They are soldiers of Christ, fighting in a war that uses none of the weapons of a conventional armed struggle. 

Even so, the possibility of serious harm is great and the stakes couldn't be higher. The adversaries in this struggle are shrewd and deadly. Satan and his legions will stop at nothing to impede and frustrate the work of Christ, and forcing the individual soldier out of action. 

Satan is very thorough at locating the weakest point to attack. Only an effective believer of the Lord can withstand his assaults. Unquestionably, the stronger one's belief in Christ is, the more they will find themselves experiencing Satan's brutal attacks.

The devil will not waste a whole lot of time on those who are Christian in name only. They are easy targets and picked off effortlessly. One thing is for certain, on our own you and I are no match for Satan. Therefore, we must constantly find our strength in the Lord (Ephesians 6:10).

We, as believers in Jesus Christ, must not fool ourselves into thinking that we can go at it alone. The best soldiers are those who are acutely aware of their own weaknesses and inadequacies. And only they who rely on and place their faith in Him will triumph in the end.

Scripture: 1 Peter 5:8; James 4:7; 2 Corinthians 10:4; 1 John 3:8; Isaiah 14:12

Prayer: Dear Lord, provide me with strength, guidance, and forgiveness whenever the enemy strikes. Knowing that you will be with me through the battle gives me courage and hope. Amen.

May God bless you,

Lainey

The Salvation Found in No One Else

"Jesus alone can offer eternal life because He is the only one who lived a sinless life and provided the perfect sacrifice for our sins by His death on the cross."  - Billy Graham

Christ truly gives the best comfort simply by telling about Himself. In the opening verse of John 14, Jesus tells his disciples "Do not let your hearts be troubled..." This verse seems to say to any who may have doubts, "Do not let your mind be troubled..."

These seven comforting words provide a sense of relief from any confusion as to what Christ promises the bewildered soul. Heaven can often appear distant and unknown, but if He who paved the road guides us there, we needn't worry about losing our way.

We have no desire to see too far ahead, only far enough to recognize Him and follow his footsteps. Christ does not fully disclose everything about God and heaven to us all at once. Why? We could not process it all at the present (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

Instead, Christ gives us Himself, and in that gift everything is secured. Look at it this way, if you are the owner of many mines you will never lack treasure. If you own a fountain you will have a daily supply of water (John 10:10).

Our peace lies not in the amount of our belief, but rather, in the how well we do believe. If our faith in Him is steady and resolute, He will return it with knowledge. The way to break free from doubts is the think about Christ (Psalm 119:142).

What we require is not explanation, but confidence. Sometimes we don't know what to believe in, but we always know whom we have believed. Religion isn't a theory, nor is it a doctrine. It is the coming of a person to a person, by a person.

In John 14:6, Jesus declares quite clearly that only He is the way to heaven; and that He doesn't just show the way; He is the way. And those who follow Him, even through darkness, will assuredly reach the Father (John 8:12).

Scripture: Proverbs 12:28; Isaiah 30:21; Matthew 11:27; Ephesians 2:18; John 11:25

Prayer: Dear Lord, lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. Amen.  - Psalm 25:5 (ESV) 

Grace and blessings,

LeeAnne

Scripture Study with Bibi: Genesis 9-12

"There is but one Church in which men find salvation, just as outside the ark of Noah it was not possible for anyone to be saved."  - Thomas Aquinas

I am so glad that you've joined me once again! If you have followed us the past few weeks, we first reviewed some introductory points about the Bible, then we examined Genesis, chapters 1-8 (Creation to the end of the Flood).

This week, we shall begin with Genesis, Chapter 9, then move into chapters 10, 11, and 12. I always like to remind everyone that it would be most helpful to read the material prior to completing the exercises.

For many, simply starting any kind of Bible study can see overwhelming. My intention here is to provide a starting point where the individual can launch into a much deeper study at whatever level is most comfortable.

I will set the stage for this week's study with a thumbnail view of the Book of Genesis. Genesis is the first of five books of the Bible commonly known at "the Pentateuch" (from two Greek words meaning "five books).

It was written and assembled by the Jewish prophet, Moses. Genesis is also known as the book of beginnings. In it we encounter the written record of several "beginnings,"  such as the heavens, earth, life, human relationships, laws, and customs.

Let's begin our study with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of your truth. Amen.

Now, here is this week's study:

1.) Read Genesis, chapter 9 carefully. The particular chapter discusses several things pertaining to Noah after the flood. Identify three main topics mentioned there:

   a.) the Divine Blessing that was pronounced upon Noah and his family.
 
   b) the two warnings (Divine Injunctions) that were given by God.

   c) the Divine Covenant that God establishes with Noah and his descendants.

2.) Read Genesis, chapter 10. Who were the sons of Noah, and how many sons did each of them have?

3.) Continuing with Genesis, chapter 10 and onto chapter 11, by which of Noah's three sons was the Messiah descended from? And, through which of that son's descendants can Jesus be traced back to?

4.) Read Genesis, chapter 11:1-9. Give an account of the confusion of tongues.

5.) Read Genesis, chapters 11 and 12. Who was Abraham, and what were his attributes? Who were some of his ancestors? What was his birthplace? Who were some of the more notable individuals among his descendants? Give the story of his call or instructions, his travels, and the kind of life he led.

This concludes our studies this week. Next time, we will discuss the call of Abraham to the birth of Isaac (Genesis, chapters 13-19). I encourage you to read this ahead of time. Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: John 14:15; Revelation 14:12; Psalm 119:10; James 1:22; Colossians 3:1

Closing prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen

May you all be blessed!

Bibi

A Change for the Better

"Nothing happens unless something is moved."  - Albert Einstein

Change can be risky at best, especially when it involves habitual activity. After all, any accustomed behavior is hard to change. We know this because of our own familiarity with doing things long established as habits or routines.

Nevertheless, one can always "change for the better." Merriam-Webster defines it as: an improvement in situation or state of affairs over what was. This wonderfully characterizes someone who has come to know Jesus Christ.

Saul of Tarsus, better known as Paul the apostle, was of Hebrew ancestry; his parents hardcore Pharisees. He grew up and was educated among intensely, passionate Jewish nationalists and strict followers of the Law of Moses.

He learned to speak Greek, even if it was frowned upon in his household, and had a decent grasp of Latin. Saul's family were Roman citizens, but recognized the city of Jerusalem as sacred and holy (Acts 22:22-29).

A master of Jewish history, and later a lawyer, Saul was on the fast track to become a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish Supreme Court. His great passion for his faith gradually evolved into religious extremism.

This fed his ruthlessness against Christians. It's possible he was at Stephen's trial, but he was definitely at his stoning (Acts 7:58). Looking at Saul's life, thus far, any "change" seems near impossible.

Little did Saul know that he was on a collision course with "change."  Life, as he had known it was about to be turned upside down. And there wasn't anything he could do about it. With God nothing is impossible (Matthew 19:26).

While on the road from Jerusalem to Damascus, to round up Christians and bring them back for imprisonment, Saul encountered the resurrected Jesus Christ. His life was never the same (Acts 9:1-22).

Saul became a devoted follower of the Lord, making known His name to Gentiles and Israelites alike (Acts (:15). Later, he was even persecuted for sharing the Gospel (Acts 14:19; 2 Corinthians 11:25–26).

He spent so much time teaching in Gentile areas that he started using his Roman name Paul (Acts 13:9). The apostle Paul spent the rest of his life proclaiming the risen Jesus Christ all over the Roman world.

Paul's life had completely changed because of Jesus Christ. He went from being an unrelenting persecutor of Christians, to an apostle, and the writer of several of the New Testament books.

At the outset, I mentioned that change can be difficult for some. We all have things we'd like to change about ourselves, but are afraid or unsure of doing so because of the unknown.

God is ready to help and guide you. However, you must surrender to Him. Paul changed because he learned to let go and place his trust in God. He has a better plan for you, but you'll never know if you don't let go (Jeremiah 29:11).

If God's saving grace could "change" a person like Saul, imagine what He can do for you! It doesn't matter what you've done, where you've been, or where you're from, "change" is available to all through God (Jeremiah 29:11).

Scripture: Psalm 51:10; Proverbs 3:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 2 Peter 3:9; Galatians 2:20

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for Your everlasting grace towards me. Amen.

God bless you, 

Whitney

In Whom Can I Trust?

“I'm not upset that you lied to me, I'm upset that from now on I can't believe you.
- Friedrich Nietzsche

Who can I trust? In this world of ours, trust is increasingly becoming more difficult to recognize and embrace. It seems that everywhere we look we are confronted with examples of lies, deceit, and dishonesty.

What's even more frightening is that some of the biggest violators of trust are those in whom we have placed our own. Sadly, this problem with is not exclusive to any specific population, region, or country.

The issue of mistrust has been addressed many times in news and social media outlets. Different remedies or fixes have been suggested, yet it appears to get worse instead of better.

People have always struggled with the lack of trust. The Bible has many instances where some of the most pious individuals grappled with it. In the end, with God's help, they emerged victorious and so can we.

Let's examine one such individual. Esther was a Jewish woman who was taken as the wife of the king of the Persian Empire. An evil minister in the court plotted against all of the Jews in the kingdom (Book of Esther).

Esther's uncle found out about the plot and urged Esther to approach the king about it. She was hesitant about doing this because in order to see the king she first needed to submit a request.

Anyone that dared to come to the king without an invitation put their life at risk, this included Esther. Her uncle convinced her that she had been placed into her position "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

Only she could notify the king of the minister's plot, even it meant her own death. She placed her trust in God for guidance in revealing the plan to kill her people. 

By her faith, Esther made known her background as a Jew and foiled the wicked minister's plot to kill her people. The common lesson in the life of Esther and others was that they learned to trust God in the end.

While there is a definite problem with "trust" in the world, the one thing we can always count on is that God will never misuse or abuse our trust. Most have learned that trusting in others may not always be in our best interest.

But, there is never any uncertainty or risk when we put our full trust in God. "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe" (Proverbs 29:25). 

Scripture: Psalm 118:8; Isaiah 12:2; Proverbs 3:5; Psalm 118:5; Hebrews 11:6

Prayer: Dear Lord, You've promised to guide all Your children in all truth; teach me Your truth of following You and trusting in Your word. Amen.

Love and blessings,

Andrea