Used by God – Be Still…

Acts 9:1-9 – Whom God Chooses

God doesn’t always choose the people you expect. Look at me! I’m a retired paralegal from the Midwest now serving as a missionary in Mexico and writing Bible devotions to help people connect with God. But Saul’s story is extraordinary, and it’s one we should pay attention to.

We’re not told here what becomes of Saul after he’s blinded by the light. Saul’s conversion story is powerful, and you can read more about it and how God uses other people to help Saul here in Acts 9. But for our reflection today, let’s consider what this tells us about our theme of listening to God’s Word. Continue reading “Acts 9:1-9 – Whom God Chooses”

Ezekiel 29:17-21 – Years Later . . .

Read Ezekiel 29:17-21

What a big jump! Now we’re in the 27^th year of the exile. Our last reading about Egypt was recorded seventeen years prior to this one which finally speaks of how God’s power will be revealed against the mighty Egypt. You’ll have to adjust your mind just a bit as Ezekiel “fast forwards” into the future. This one message is injected into the order of Ezekiel’s prophecies for a reason. I think it’s to tie everything together for us.

After our last reading, we had no way of knowing when or how God would bring about his judgment. Interesting that Egypt’s downfall would benefit Israel’s oppressor, the one God had given authority to destroy Jerusalem. How would the people who escaped that downfall by being held in exile feel when Egypt fell to the very same powerful king as a reward. Continue reading “Ezekiel 29:17-21 – Years Later . . .”

Ezekiel 2:1-8 – Used By God

Read Ezekiel 2:1-8

One moment Ezekiel’s face was in the dust overcome with his vision of the throne of God, and the next–God spoke. Have you ever heard the voice of God speak to you? I’ve often wondered if I may have missed hearing God because my head was too crowded with other things. I’ll never forget the night I heard God say, “You’re going to write for me.” I’ve been writing my Bible reflections ever since.

If God wants us to move, like he did Ezekiel, he’ll make sure we hear him loud and clear. Do you think Ezekiel jumped to his feet when he heard the voice? He may have thought he was hearing things. If there had been any initial doubt, God sent his spirit to enter Ezekiel. In that moment, Ezekiel must have realized who he was hearing. It was God speaking just to him. Continue reading “Ezekiel 2:1-8 – Used By God”

2 Chronicles 36:1-10 – The Last Kings

Read 2 Chronicles 36:1-10

These final kings are summed up pretty quickly by the Chronicler. Being they weren’t “good” kings who followed the law and worshipped God, it makes sense this author would be brief.

Even more interesting is how these kings were chosen and the family dynamics that must have been going on during this 22+ year period. Let’s look at that and glean some wisdom on what the message is for us today. Continue reading “2 Chronicles 36:1-10 – The Last Kings”

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!