Tag: John 16:33

Acts 9:1-31 – Transformed!

Read Acts 9:1-31

This is one of the greatest stories of transformation in the Bible. We’re given hope that God can use us, too, no matter what we have done in the past. Here we meet Saul. He was mentioned only briefly in chapters 7 and 8, but here we see what God had intended for him.

We’re given a glimpse into the person Saul was before encountering Jesus, and he was “eager to kill the Lord’s followers,” known as “the Way.” Just the sight of Saul would have brought fear to the believers. Saul’s assignment to Damascus would end differently than he expected. Continue reading “Acts 9:1-31 – Transformed!”

Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd

Read Psalm 23

This psalm has deep rooted memories for me. Do you remember the first time you heard this psalm? I have a distinct memory, can almost smell it. It was at my grandfather’s funeral. I was ten. I was a mess because I had just lost my best friend and the best listener in the whole world. Now when time I read this psalm, it often happens that I almost smell the odd musty funeral home. Despite the sad day, I remember being comforted by the psalm.

The version I grew up with had a little different second line. The version referred to in this blog and book series has been the NLT (New Living Translation) which says God provides what we need. Growing up, he provided what we wanted in a more traditional version like the ESV (English Standard Version). Between providing for what we need and want, our Shepherd King has it pretty much covered. The difference between a need and a want seems to be huge. Another version, the NIV (New International Version) which says we “lack nothing.” In sum, God provides. Continue reading “Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd”

Ezekiel 34:25-31 – Covenant of Peace

Read Ezekiel 34:25-31

This is a very hopeful message for people everywhere, not just those living during Ezekiel’s day. It clearly points to the new covenant ushered in by Jesus. Yet, it doesn’t appear this moment has fully arrived yet. God’s people, Israel, remain in bondage of one sort or another. Looking over the history of the Jewish people, never has there been a time of such peace and harmony as described here.

Perfect peace is more than just the absence of war. The peace described here is complete harmony between man and nature as well as a between all people. God is present and recognized. This promise is one we can all cling to. There will be a day when harmony like this will come to pass. Continue reading “Ezekiel 34:25-31 – Covenant of Peace”

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