bold faith – Be Still…

Ezekiel 22:1-16 – Are You Ready?

Read Ezekiel 22:1-16

The Sovereign LORD has been giving Ezekiel many messages of doom and gloom. Ezekiel’s homeland is about to be under attack, orchestrated by God himself. How do you think Ezekiel was feeling? Do we ever question what a prophet must be thinking?

God asks Ezekiel the question in this reading. “Son of man, are you ready to judge Jerusalem?” There must be a myriad of emotions coursing through Ezekiel. After all, Ezekiel is already living in exile in Babylon. His own personal capture and removal from Jerusalem has happened, and he is still alive. Everything that is about to happen to Jerusalem must seem so far away! Continue reading “Ezekiel 22:1-16 – Are You Ready?”

Daniel 6:1-18 – Daniel Meets the Lions

Read Daniel 6:1-18

If you’re like me, when you think of the prophet Daniel you can’t help but think of lions. It’s a story we’ve been hearing since we were kids in Sunday School (if you were blessed like me to have that background). We can only imagine what Daniel’s encounter was like with the lions after being sealed into their den. Daniel’s example for us never gets old.

However, the first half of the story sets up the situation Daniel found himself in. Maybe you can relate? Have you ever made someone else jealous? Maybe it was your cute shoes, or your athletic ability, or being the teacher’s pet for your good grades. Jealousy, when it’s out of control, can lead people to do some pretty hurtful things. Continue reading “Daniel 6:1-18 – Daniel Meets the Lions”

1 Chronicles 4:1-43 – Who is Jabez?

Read 1 Chronicles 4:1-43

In this passage, we have a little more history thrown in for good measure. It’s always interesting to see what little tidbits the Chronicler inserts in these long lists of hard to pronounce names! Because I had a hard time following all the relations, what struck me most was the mention of Jabez starting in verse 9.

I assume Jabez must be a descendant of Judah because of the placement in our text. Do you remember when the book “The Prayer of Jabez” was published by Bruce Wilkinson and received so much attention back in the early 2000’s? My search for my copy in David’s library was unsuccessful, but I do remember being impacted by the example Jabez sets for us.

Nehemiah 2:1-10 – Ask Boldly

Read Nehemiah 2:1-10

Just picture this scene happening. Nehemiah has clearly been lamenting over what is happening in his homeland. Now it’s starting to affect his work. His boss, the king, can see his sadness and inquires with compassion. It sounds like Nehemiah was shocked by the inquiry, not sure how much he should share.

With boldness after his initial fear, Nehemiah shares his desire to return to his homeland and make a difference there. Without hesitation it seems, the king granted Nehemiah’s request. God’s hand was working it all out. That had to be a great relief as well as inspiration to Nehemiah. Being used by God is exhilarating!

Mark 10:46-52 – I Want to See!

Read Mark 10:46-52

Meet Bartimaeus, the blind beggar from our reading. We don’t often get an introduction by name to those whom Jesus healed. There must have been something special about Bartimaeus that stood out. Forever we will remember Bartimaeus and his bold faith.

What can we learn from Bartimaeus or how Jesus responded to him? Bartimaeus was determined. He knew what he wanted and was insistent. He knew Jesus was the answer. He didn’t let the people trying to keep him quiet win, he only shouted louder. Jesus rewarded this man’s persistence, called out his great faith, and healed him.