Abraham – Be Still…

Daniel 9:20-27 – A Glimpse into the Future

Read Daniel 9:20-27

I was impressed by how Daniel goes from earnestly praying for himself and his people to having the angel Gabriel appear suddenly in his presence. God had heard Daniel’s prayer and how he was wrestling with the seventy-year issue part of Jeremiah’s prophecy. Daniel had an inquiring mind, and God came to the rescue.

Daniel was probably startled by Gabriel’s arrival as well as the message he brought. Daniel’s prayer had caused quite a stir in the heavenly realm. Can you imagine hearing Gabriel’s words, “The moment you began praying, a command was given. And now I am here to tell you what it was, for you are very precious to God.” Hearing that I was precious to God would have stopped me in my tracks. Continue reading “Daniel 9:20-27 – A Glimpse into the Future”

James 2:14-26 – Living Out Your Faith

Read James 2:14-26

James introduces this section by suggesting a problem he must have observed. “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?” Certainly we’d all agree that faith should show itself through deeds of loving service.

In a recent Bible study discussion, I marveled at my pastor husband, David’s comment about this text. He posed an interesting scenario of observing a discussion about faith between our author here, James, and the apostle Paul. We’d see two very faithful men with two very different perspectives. Is that a bad thing? After all, the gospels all talk about Jesus’ life and ministry from different viewpoints. When it comes to understanding our faith, these differences can be confusing.

Hebrews 11:17-31 – Walk By Faith

Read Hebrews 11:17-31

Faith is not a new phenomenon. The Preacher takes us down memory lane here as our reflections continue with what it means to be faithful. The Old Testament comes alive for us as we see how God has used many different individuals to move his story along to this moment. The moment you are living in!

Here’s a little script for you. “It was by faith that … [INSERT YOUR NAME HERE] … was able to do mighty things that many thought impossible [INSERT YOUR STORY].” What mighty story can you tell about how God intervened in your life when you stayed faithful? Maybe you’re “big moment” has yet to happen. Each day can present us little miracles if we take time to look for them.