1 Corinthians 8:1-13 – What Do You Eat?

Read 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

Next up, the Corinthians had questions about what they should be eating. However, it didn’t have anything to do with fitness or watching their weight. We have a hard time identifying with such things as leftover food used during idol worship. Today, idol worship looks a lot different than in Paul’s day, so what does this chapter say to us? (Read more on idol worship from Jeremiah 10:1-16.)

Before Paul tackles their question, he says this: “But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.” I want to love God so much He recognizes me, don’t you? I’m not sure how that line fits in with the rest of the theme of this reflection, but it sets up a great mindset for us. It has given me pause to think about what I am doing to attract God’s attention. How do we show Him our love and devotion? The Corinthians must have wondered if what they ate mattered. Continue reading “1 Corinthians 8:1-13 – What Do You Eat?”

Acts 17:1-15 – Are You Open Minded?

Read Acts 17:1-15

Do you feel a little like you are accompanying Paul on his missionary journey? Does the way Luke writes this account make you feel like you are right there? We also see a little of life in Thessalonica to see what kind of believers there are and what their challenges may be. As you may know, Paul writes two letters to that community of faith as part of our New Testament.

What struck you most about this leg of the men’s journey? Do you want to see a map so that you truly picture the countryside being covered? I like picturing Paul teaching the Bible to folks. Of course, stories about Jesus were not part of the Scriptures Jews were familiar with. In those early days, it was writers like Luke who were also keeping track of Jesus’ life and impact on the world. Our New Testament was living out loud as it was written. Continue reading “Acts 17:1-15 – Are You Open Minded?”

Leviticus 4:1-35 – An Offering for Sin

Read Leviticus 4:1-35

People sin all the time and don’t realize it. Whether we know our sins or not, they are still sins, and we are still guilty. The LORD spoke through Moses about what should happen when someone discovers their sin. This chapter is the “how to” manual for priests and lay people who sin and need to be cleansed.

The process as described has similarities and differences to the instructions given for burnt offerings. I’m a bit confused at which sacrifice is appropriate when? Both sacrifice procedures cover sinfulness. Would the priests make that call? Continue reading “Leviticus 4:1-35 – An Offering for Sin”

Daniel 2:46-49 – The King’s Response

Read Daniel 2:46-49

King Nebuchadnezzar got everything he wanted from Daniel. We’re not told here what the king thought of the message itself. But his response to Daniel speaks volumes. Were you surprised by what happened?

I’m sure Daniel was a little taken aback when this powerful king threw himself down in worship of Daniel. I don’t imagine kings often make themselves vulnerable like that, yet Nebuchadnezzar was so moved. The king even encouraged others to show their respect. Daniel was likely relieved to have not angered the king with the message. Continue reading “Daniel 2:46-49 – The King’s Response”

2 Chronicles 33:1-25 – Bad to Good to Bad

Read 2 Chronicles 33:1-25

Manasseh was a nasty, wicked king. Mostly. After having such a devout father, I suppose it shouldn’t surprise me that the pendulum would swing in the opposite direction. Kids often rebel against their parents, and Manasseh would be a prime example of this. Everything that Hezekiah had established to please God and have a successful life was demolished.

Did this passage shock you, too, or was it just me? Some of the things Manasseh did were unforgiveable. My spirit just hurts for people who have chosen pagan lies over the truth. It happened to Manasseh and it’s happening like an epidemic in today’s world. How do you expect God feels about it? The LORD wants devotion, to be needed, and not abandoned. Continue reading “2 Chronicles 33:1-25 – Bad to Good to Bad”