November 30

Today's Reading

Daniel. Great mystery surrounds this chapter of Daniel's writing. He is obviously seeing things in the future, but how many of them have already taken place and how many are to come? Over what time period do these kingdoms rise and fall? Is he speaking of a world ruler we think of as the Beast (or Antichrist) or is he speaking about ancient Rome? This much is certain: we must keep these words near and refer to them as history unfolds. We may be alive as many of them come to pass. By the way, the Lion traditionally refers to England, the eagle to the USA, the Bear to Russia and the Leopard to Africa. 

1 John. John, called "the disciple whom Jesus loved", wrote three little letters that bear his name. They are far different from his Gospel account, which chronicles the earthly ministry of Jesus. They are different than Revelation, which he also wrote and we will read shortly. Each of them has a purpose and each is full of powerful words for those of us who want to know Jesus deeply. He opens the first letter with this truth: God is light and has no darkness in Him. On the other hand, we live in a dark world and often yield to the dark power. Amazingly, all that that is necessary is for us to confess our sins and He will forgive. Wow!

Psalms. This longest chapter of the Bible keeps referring to God's commands and how they help us. It refers to our need to be revived sometimes. And it refers to afflictions and how they help us keep focus. I think it fitting that the chapter ends with, "I have wandered away like a lost sheep;
come and find me,
for I have not forgotten your commands." We don't want to wander away and we feel guilty when we do, but the truth is, we do!

Proverbs. I have received many nice complements and have often been very grateful for the encouragement they brought me. On the other hand, I can remember a handful of honest criticisms over the years that linger on and on, constantly reminding me of my need to grow.

How are you growing? What is challenging you?

November 29

Today's Reading

Daniel. Again, God establishes His own power over all the earth. It's amazing that the Jews refused to fully honor and trust God so the Lord allowed them to be taken captive. During their captivity, God kept showing Himself strong to the pagan rulers who had imprisoned them.

2 Peter. The earth will be destroyed by fire. The only thing that makes it through are human souls. What does that say about the way we invest our lives?

Psalms. "But you are near, O Lord..." This theme is repeated in numerous ways throughout the Bible. When we have trials, it seems that God is so far away, but the opposite is true. Do you long for His presence? He is near!

Proverbs. "Showing partiality is never good,
yet some will do wrong for a mere piece of bread." I read a recent study in which 25% of corporate workers would willingly steal company secrets if it would help a family member or fried have a better chance for a job.

These are "real world" Scriptures that apply to our daily lives. What is speaking to you?

November 28

Today's Reading

Daniel. I can't think of a more radical rapid turn of events in history. It took us three days to see the death on the cross become the victory of the empty tomb. Ananias and Saphira (Acts 5) were brought down, but not from such a lofty height. At the beginning of the evening recorded here, Belshazzar was on top of the world. I can almost hear him gloating about drinking from the golden cups of God's Temple. No doubt he and his elite made great sport of the idea of their power over nations. Suddenly, a hand appeared. By the end of the night, the armies of Medo-Persia were inside the fortress-city and conquering the kingdom. "...until he learned that the Most High God rules over the kingdoms of the world and appoints anyone he desires to rule over them."

2 Peter. I was going to comment on this chapter. I am afraid I would write all day and you would quickly tire of reading. Instead, if you have already read the chapter, I encourage you to take a few minutes and read it again. Read it slowly. Chew on it. Soak it in.

Psalms. We live in a world that is stained and scarred by sin. People have agendas. Pressures bruise us. How do we navigate? "125 Give discernment to me, your servant;
then I will understand your laws."

Proverbs. It is far better to toil away and gradually build a reputation as someone who is "trustworthy" than to run from one "get rich quick" scheme to another.

How's it going, Climbing Companion? We are on the home stretch and the finish line is just around the corner!

November 27

Today's Reading

Daniel. "Seven periods of time": what does that mean? Seven months? Seven years? The growth of his hair and nails certainly indicates more than seven days. God obviously still had plans for Nebuchadnezzar or His judgment would have been death. This makes the third time in Daniel that the king had to humble himself and recognize the sovereignty of God.

2 Peter. Peter isn't clear in this letter about whom it is addressed to. Perhaps it's a more general letter for all the churches. Certainly that's what happened with his first letter. When I was a boy, I memorized the character qualities he mentions: "Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge..." I have discovered that they are like ascending stair steps. Begin with faith, step higher into moral excellence, still higher with knowledge (knowing God and His Word) and keep rising to the top, which is "love for everyone." It is a climb worth our focused attention and hard work.

Psalms. The world's way of qualification is growth in thinking, understanding and performing tasks. That's not God's way. "9 Yes, I have more insight than my teachers,
for I am always thinking of your laws.
100 I am even wiser than my elders,
for I have kept your commandments." The world's system may prepare your mind and your hands, but God prepares the heart. The perfect picture of this is Jesus at twelve years old, standing in the Temple and baffling the Teachers with His skill. They knew facts about God's Word. He knew the author!

Proverbs. When I read verses like the ones today, I end up with big questions about our criminal justice system.

What is speaking to you today?

November 26

Today's Reading

Daniel. Isaiah 43:2 had prophesied, "When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not harm you." The fires that you and I face may be of a different nature than those in today's reading, but God wants to be just as present with us as He was with them. Notice that the only thing burned were the ropes that bound them.

1 Peter. "The end of the world is coming soon." From a Biblical viewpoint, we have been in the "last days" since the ascension of Christ. He spoke then about His "soon" return and two millennia is the blink of an eye in the context of eternity. Do you believe it could be in our lifetime? I see increasing signs that it might be very soon indeed.

Psalms. Contrary to what some may think, "89 Your eternal word, O Lord,
stands firm in heaven," isn't talking about the King James Version of the Bible. Truth is what God says. He has given us enough of it in the Scriptures to seek Him, find Him and know Him. Our pages couldn't begin to contain all He has to say, though.

Proverbs. O God, please give us rulers with humble hearts and understanding.

What do you notice today?

November 25

Today's Reading

Daniel. If your awareness of this prophet is limited to his night in the lion's den, you are in for a treasure of experiences. Daniel was used as God's prophet, primarily to the pagan people where he was held captive. He was the adviser to great kings. He saw great kingdoms rise and fall. And his understanding of the stars as well as God's stated plans traveled down hundreds of years to an order of astronomers -- called Magi -- who followed a star to Bethlehem.

Nebuchadnezzar was powerful, egotistical, maniacal and brilliant. He was one of the most powerful kings in all of history. A raise of the eyebrows or movement of a finger could order the slaughter or thousands with no repercussions to him. But remember this: God is in charge of kings! "The king's heart is like channels of water in the hands of God; he moves it whichever way He wishes." (Proverbs 21:1) Also, God always has His representatives near seats of power. I wonder who the Daniels are in this day.

1 Peter. "And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way." With the deepest respect for those who do it, I believe that the "in your face, turn or burn" style of evangelism isn't very effective today. At least not among the people where I minister.

Psalms. "71 My suffering was good for me,
for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees." Once again, we are treated to an Old Testament confirmation of some we read in the New Testament today. Didn't notice? Take a quick look at 1 Peter again.

Proverbs. It is far better to be doubtful and careful than confident and sinful. 

What are your thoughts?

November 24

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. It would be hard to write about all the beauty and joy I see in these last two chapters of this prophecy. For one thing, notice that the river flows from the Throne of the Lord. It doesn't get shallower, but deeper as it works its way down the mountain. God's love and power are like that. He pours them out on us and they keep getting deeper. Jesus called it "rivers of living water." Notice, too, that the trees are bearing fruit all the time. No seasons of darkness when the leaves fall off and the fruit is but a memory. Then notice that the name of the city is Yahweh Shammah -- the Lord is there! Whoa!

1 Peter. "16 For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil." It only our nation would do this. If only the Christians would do this. Our national freedoms have been earned by the blood of men and women who put their lives on the line. Our Christian freedom was earned by the blood of Jesus. In both cases, we are belittling the price that was paid when we live on with pride, greed, immorality, disrespect of authority, etc.

Psalms. "59 I pondered the direction of my life,
and I turned to follow your laws." This is the Biblical definition of repentance. 

Proverbs. "13 People who conceal their sins will not prosper,
but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy." this is the Biblical result of repentance or unrepentance.

What is touching your heart today?

November 23

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. When Christ returns, how will these Jewish traditions of worship fit into the overall plan for the Kingdom? I'm not sure, but I am sure that Jesus was a Jew and this all has significance. 

1 Peter. When God opened the door for us to buy the property where we are located, we sought out a suitable name that reflect our desire that all people feel welcome there. Our location on the edge of the mesa -- about the closest thing the city of Yuma has to a "ridge" -- we considered names that included the word. One day a church leader came in with these verses: "4 You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God’s temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor.
5 And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple." She asked, "How about Stone Ridge Church?" Other factors played into the decision, but these verses are the foundation of our name, just as Christ Himself is the cornerstone of the church.

Psalms. "45  I will walk in freedom,
for I have devoted myself to your commandments." The sinner desires the "freedom" of life outside of God's commands, which is truly a life of bondage. Only God's commands bring us to the place of true freedom and joy -- life with no regrets.

Proverbs. Discernment: it's one of God's greatest navigational gifts as we travel the journeys of this life.

What are your insights today?

November 22

Today's Reading

Ezekiel continued to describe the Temple and the sacred land that would be part of the coming kingdom.

1 Peter was written, as it states, to a group of Jewish believers in what is now northern Turkey. They had been dispersed there because of persecution in their homeland. However, the persecution in this new region was similarly overwhelming. Peter wrote them a letter to encourage them during their trials and to remind them of the provision of God, as well as of the reward that awaited them.

Psalms. "I lie in the dust;
revive me by your word." I find it tempting to try reviving myself with entertainment, work, friends, etc. This verse really speaks to me today.

Proverbs. God seems to delight in being generous to the generous.

What have you noticed today?

November 21

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. "Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east...I fell face down on the ground." The Bible has several examples of people seeing the glory of God. In each case, their reaction was one of deep awe and awareness of their own sinfulness. How do you think you would react?  As you read this passage carefully, I think you will be awestruck at the glory of the Lord and what it means that we can know Him intimately.

James. About thirty years ago, I met a boy named Refugio. Refugio was from deep in the interior of Mexico. He was sixteen and he had a problem: his parents were both deceased. His older brother was a drug addict and his older sister had three children to care for. Refugio had a younger brother and sister with no one to care for them if he didn't do something. After sleeping under cardboard during cold, winter nights in Nogales, Mexico, he took the risk and crossed into the U.S. They made their way on foot up into the mountains of central, eastern Arizona and got a job on a large farm. After working for several weeks, they got word that the farmer, instead of paying them, was calling the authorities to come and pick them up and deport them. "Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The wages you held back cry out against you. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies."

Psalms. We begin Psalm 119 again. May it be the cry of our hearts! "5 Oh, that my actions would consistently
reflect your decrees!"

Proverbs. As a teen, I did the wild friend thing. I can testify to truth of this verse.

What speaks to you today?

November 20

Today's Reading

Ezekiel was being given an architect's tour of the Temple. Everything had a purpose and it was large. The Most Holy Place -- the throne room of the Lord -- was 1225 square feet! Ezekiel must have been in awe. Between here and the end of the book, it just keeps getting better and better. Hang on!

James. "3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure." I lay awake the other night and thought about what earth must be like from God's perspective. Can you imagine the cacophony of voices, each crying out to Him for something? Yes, some are giving Him praise. Some are repenting. Some are interceding for the needs of someone else, including the need of salvation. Some are crying out for God to heal their child or their spouse. Some are crying out for grace to walk through a terrible ordeal. Some are asking God for enough food to get them through the day. Some are praying for protection from an oppressive government. But how many times have my prayers been, "God, could I get that new iPod? Or that car? Or that television?" It breaks my heart to imagine it!

Psalms. "29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever." Pondering what I wrote above, this verse amazes and blesses me beyond words.

Proverbs. Standing up to the wicked is part of our calling. Just be sure that you are standing based on God's Word and not your prejudices.

What are your thoughts today?

November 19

Today's Reading

Ezekiel's description of the carnage following the defeat of Gog's forces is horrible. The idea of cleaning up body parts for seven months is almost beyond imagination, even in the day we have shows like Bones and CSI on television. The scene changes then and Ezekiel is given the dimensions of a new Temple to be built. As we shall see from here to the end of the book, the Temple is probably the one in which the Lord himself will occupy.

James. Do right and demonstrate your faith. Watch your tongue, but beware: it can't fully be tamed. Be careful of jealousy and selfish ambition: they come from the pit. James knew how to hit pretty hard, didn't he?

Psalms. Life for God's people tends to be full of conflicts and trials. The enemy of our souls constantly seeks ways to bring us down. But we have an answer! "8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in people.
9 It is better to take refuge in the Lord
than to trust in princes."

Proverbs. "2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily.
But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability." That's the very reason we need to turn from our own wickedness, seek His face and pray for Him to revive this nation.

What thoughts do you have?

November 18

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. When everything looks hopeless, God offers new life. The word picture of breathing life into the dry bones is descriptive of what happens when a spiritually lifeless sinner receives Jesus. Wow!

If, as Joel Rosenberg has written (and I agree with him), Magog is Moscow (or Russia, in a more general sense), Ezekiel 38 is a gripping prophetic picture of conflicts to come and God's miraculous intervention.

James. Where do I begin? Hmmmm, let's see. My anger won't fix the world. If I can't control my tongue, my religion is worthless. I'm to care about and for the poor, including widows and orphans. Oh, and I'm not to show favor to the rich and famous. I must be merciful. Why? Because faith without good works is useless!

Psalms 117. I learned this little Psalm as a praise chorus many years ago. It comes back and rings in my head every time I read it. That's a great way to memorize Scripture!  I recently read a page correcting a common internet error about the middle chapter of the Bible.  Psalm 117 is actually the middle chapter.  While I don't think it is some secret message, I think it's beautiful that the Bible, which begins with, "In the beginning, God..." and ends with, "May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with God's holy people," has such such encouragement and promise in the middle.

Proverbs. The godly are bold for the name and honor of Him!

What is speaking to you today?

November 17

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. 25 “Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.[c] 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." If your heart is hard, is it because you have never received a new heart like God promised and made available through Jesus Christ? Or have you received a new heart, but stopped God's process of changing your character? Either, way, my prayer for you is that you receive and live a life consistent with a new heart.

James is a letter that wasn't universally received in the early church. As early church leaders met to debate, pray and determine which writings should  be consider a part of God's Holy Word, James was controversial. Some liked his emphasis on outward works. Others felt that he was in direct conflict with Paul's teaching of salvation by grace through faith alone. They finally admitted James into the canon with the argument that Paul was describing justification before God, which is by faith. James described justification before men, which is by works. 

Chapter 1 begins with a discussion of God's desire as to what happens when we go through trials: He wants them to grow our endurance. Hills, heat, cold, wind, and sand are all trials to runners. Running through them can create significant endurance. 

Psalms. Difficulties will either drive you to God or away from Him. You choose!

Proverbs. Jesus warned against what He called "hirelings". True shepherds care for the sheep; hirelings just want a paycheck. It's another "attitude check" for me as a pastor.

What is speaking to you today?

November 16

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. The prophetic message today begins with a word to all who discover God's purposes and plans, then fail to warn those around them. Then it moves to "shepherds", which is the same as "pastor" in the New Testament. It can be anyone charged with spiritual responsibility for some of God's sheep. By the way, I find this passage challenging, sobering and very personal. Next, the Lord Himself is the Good Shepherd, who deeply cares for His sheep. Today's reading closes with a description of Christ's coming kingdom.

This closing chapter of Hebrews has something meaty in almost every verse. Suffice it to say that we are wanderers and pilgrims on this planet who are watched over by angels. We are called to a high standard of living. We are given the lofty position of people from whom our Savior desires praise. What an awesome life!

Psalms contains the warning, "8 And those who make idols are just like them,
as are all who trust in them." Our idols of money, credit cards, entertainment, gluttony, etc. are just as ineffectual to meet our real needs as gods carved from wood.

Proverbs. Praise is a serious test. Why? Because those who get their identity from it become people-pleasers and can be led easily astray.

What are the tests in your life? What does God want you to learn from them?

November 15

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. Egypt today is but a shadow of what it once was as the preeminent nation on earth. The prophet saw the day coming when the pride of that great nation would crumble. Do you think that the United States sits in similar danger today?

Hebrews. A seaman, I am not. My few brief forays on sea-going fishing boats -- always one-day trips -- were miserable. At the same time, they held out the hope that land was not far away. My retching stomach could find some solace when the world quit moving. As a result of this, one of the worst things I could imagine is a massive earthquake in which the land rolls and pitches just like the ocean. Where do you turn then? This passage has the answer: "On Christ, the solid rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand."

Again, Psalms enhances other Scripture -- today it's Hebrews. The earth trembles in the presence of the living God. Yet He promises us ultimate safety and security in Him.

Proverbs. Verse 20, in another translation says, "so the eyes of man are never satisfied." If we try to fill up our lives with anything by God and His ways, we will end up thirstier and thirstier. It's like drinking seawater. 

And what do you see today?

November 14

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. For centuries Egypt had been a world power. Their pride was great and they felt protected in their part of the world. God promised to use the Babylonians to crush them. One pagan army crushing another. A concern I have, as our nation strays from our spiritual heritage, is that God may similarly judge us.  In our past we were often "right" because we generally followed God's ways.  When we don't submit ourselves to Him, we cease being right.

Hebrews. We need to learn from those great heroes of the faith who are mentioned in Chapter 11. They knew that difficulties meant that God is near, not far away. When you and I seek God, we are not to be surprised when things go wrong. If the discipline is because we have failed, we must confess and forsake it, then go on with God. If the discipline is just part of life, God will use it to help mold us into Christ's image. How do you look at difficulties and discipline?

Psalms today is once again a perfect companion to other passages we have read. Notice how much it coincides with Hebrews. Praise God!

Proverbs. Sparks fly with iron. It's the same with the right kind of friends. It's the oil of the Holy Spirit that keeps the sharpening healthy and not devastating.

What insights do you have from today?

November 13

Today's Reading

Ezekiel 28:12-19 is a sister passage to Isaiah 14:12-21. Both passages, in the language and poetry of prophecy, open windows that allow us to see into the spirit world. We see the rise and fall of Lucifer, a powerful and beautiful angel who rebelled against God and became Satan. Tyre and Sidon, both in the nation of Lebanon today, were mighty nation-states on the sea. Both were at times allies of Israel but, during the days of Ezekiel, they likely were enjoying the fall of Israel and Judah from power and prominence. The prophet pointed out that God's judgment was falling on them, too.

Hebrews. It is easy to understand what people did and why they did it with the perspective of history. It changes our understanding when we remember that they didn't know how their stories would end. Like us, they were making choices without knowing fully what would happen. That's where faith comes in!

Psalms. "9 He has paid a full ransom for his people.
He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever.
What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has!" Aren't you glad that He didn't leave us with "postage due"? He paid the full price to deliver us to Himself by sending His own Son to die on the cross.

Proverbs. Perhaps these verses help understand why we men are told to "love your wife as Christ loved the church." The moment we decide to attempt changing our wives, we are just moving deeper into conflict.

What do you see today?

November 12

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. My heart skips a beat each time I read today's description of the death of Ezekiel's wife. Someone said, "When you can't understand God's hand, trust His heart." That's the best way I know to face such pain.

Jeremiah prophesied against Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia the same way as Ezekiel. 

Hebrews 11 begins with the Bible's most concise definition of faith. Many years ago so people donated a small piece of property to our church. The property, located in a rural area in another part of Arizona, was something I never actually saw. However, I knew the church owned it because we had the deed. Faith is the deed to things which we haven't seen yet. Chapter 11 is often called "the roll-call of faith." Take a moment and reflect on the faith of each person on the list.

Psalm 110 is, I believe, a poetic prophecy of God's final judgment upon the earth.

Proverbs. Jeremy, the teenager in the comic "Zits" would totally agree with this verse. How about you?

What have you noticed today?

November 11

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. I googled these mysterious names used for Samaria and Jerusalem in today's reading. They are from the root Hebrew word for "tent." It's possible that the names refer to the practice of erecting tents on hilltops where the people sacrificed to pagan gods, including child sacrifice and illicit sex. Either way, the graphic description of their sins is rather disturbing, don't you think? No wonder God's judgment came upon them so harshly!  Today we have socially accepted terms for people who are living in sin.  Even in the church they are embraced with no expectation of repentance.  Can we escape God's judgment?

Hebrews. This is like a beautiful "oil on canvas" word picture of the necessity and the beauty of the church coming together for worship. Following Christ includes trials from without and temptations from within. We must not neglect gathering with other believers for encouragement and instruction. Our worship is made possible because Christ's blood has cleansed our sins. Now we can boldly go into the presence of God with a clear conscience and a humble spirit.

Psalms. What do you do when you are wrongfully accused? How do you handle it when someone intentionally speaks lies about you to hurt you? Isn't it far better to humble yourself before the Lord and let Him handle it?

Proverbs. A friend of mine once told me his policy for lending money to fellow Christians. "I don't lend money I can't afford to give away. When I do lend it, I don't fully expect to receive it back. If it is a formal loan, I agree with the borrower on the interest rate and, if they repay on time, I give them the interest money back." His wise advice has always stuck with me.

What is speaking to you today?

November 10

Today's Reading

 

Ezekiel. You may have heard me speak of my deep love and respect for my dad. I can remember my sadness at his look of disappointment in me. I remember my joy when I knew he was proud of me. But I rarely saw him deeply angry at me -- and the thought of him being so brings shudders to my mind. In that light, I read, "3 Tell her, ‘This is what the Lord says: I am your enemy, O Israel...'" Can you imagine the awesome God looking in your eyes and saying that to you? We live in a time and place when many can't imagine God as anything but a big teddy bear who just smiles on everybody and everything going on. If you believe that, read today's passage very carefully.

Hebrews. 16 “This is the new covenant I will make
with my people on that day, says the Lord:
I will put my laws in their hearts,
and I will write them on their minds.”

17 Then he says,

“I will never again remember
their sins and lawless deeds.” Heart changed; sins forgotten. It doesn't get any better than that -- seriously!

Psalms. David said that his confidence lay in the Lord. I'm not sure I can always say that, even though I'm by far the most peaceful when it's true.

Proverbs. Think long-term -- it's really that simple. Or that difficult.

What do you see today?

November 9

Today's ReadingEzekiel. C.S. Lewis wrote of Aslan (who represented Christ in Chronicles of Narnia), "He is not a tame Lion." We do well to remember that God is not soft on sin. His mercy is great, but it is far different than God having a lax attitude about sin. 

Hebrews. So Jesus our Messiah entered, not the copy of the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies) in the Temple, but into the presence of God in heaven. He brought, not the blood of animals, but His own bloods and presented it as the forever sacrifice for our sins. What a picture!

Psalms. Sometimes the most "spiritual" thing we can do is to cry out from our place of trouble. God seems to be moved by the cries of His people. These verses give four powerful examples. When was the last time you cried out to God? I often wait until I have exhausted every other option. God has never failed to answer my cries with His presence and provision.

Proverbs. Parents who genuinely care about their children and what kind of people they grow up to be (I'm not sure all parents think much about that!) feel totally blessed when they see them respond to life situations with wisdom.

What do you notice today?

November 8

Today's Reading

Ezekiel reminds us that we can't ride into heaven on our parents coattails. Praise God that our parents lack of faith can't send us to hell!

Hebrews. It can become easy for Christians to forget the holiness of God. Imagine that, for hundreds of years, the ordinary people could never enter the place that represented the presence of God. Only the High Priest could go and only once a year. We should avoid taking our access to God through Christ for granted.

Psalms. Truly, God's mercy endures forever and He is longsuffering when it comes to those who are His children.

Proverbs. Treating neighbors and co-workers with respect and kindness is like an investment when we fall on difficult times.

I would love to hear your observations today!

November 7

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. What does it do to you when you read God's promise to someday restore the fortunes of Sodom? Do you remember how wicked that place was? On the other hand, have you considered how great your sin is before God? I have looked in that mirror and it's pretty ugly. So I rejoice that God will one day restore Sodom's fortunes. Because, if Sodom has no hope, neither do I!

Hebrews. "If the first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no need for a second covenant to replace it." Remember what Jesus said at The Supper: "This cup is a new covenant in My blood." What does that new covenant change? "10 But this is the new covenant I will make
with the people of Israel on that day, says the Lord:
I will put my laws in their minds,
and I will write them on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people." The Law is no longer speaking to us from the outside in; it is speaking from within our own hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Psalms. In Hebrews, we have been talking about how Israel missed their destiny and were doomed to die in the wilderness. Here's the way the Psalmist put it: "24 The people refused to enter the pleasant land,
for they wouldn’t believe his promise to care for them.
25 Instead, they grumbled in their tents
and refused to obey the Lord.
26 Therefore, he solemnly swore
that he would kill them in the wilderness..." Certainly you and I must be careful to not be held back by our own unbelief. I have known people who clearly professed Christ, but who lived lives of bitterness and complaining. I believe that they went to heaven, but they surely lived below their privileges here on earth.

Proverbs today contains three very unique verses. Which one speaks the most to you?

What else is God saying to you?

November 6

Today's Reading

Ezekiel was reminded that even three very righteous men couldn't stop the judgment coming upon Jerusalem. We read today about just how detestable Jerusalem's sins were to the Bridegroom who loved her. By the way, the New Testament picks up this imagery with Christ identified as the Bridegroom. Now, though, the bride is more clearly seen as those who have received a new heart through the cleansing of Christ's blood and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Hebrews. We have a Priest. His name is Jesus! 1 Timothy 2 told us that "there is one Mediator between God and man...Christ Jesus." How do we get to God? Through Jesus. Not through another person or through a saint. We come to God through Jesus because He paid the full price of our sins on the cross.

Psalms. This picture of Israel being saved through the water of the Red Sea reminds me of something one of our Dominican teams observed. They were there on an Easter Sunday and a number of the mission churches gathered at the main church for services and baptism. They baptized about 40 people that morning. When one lady was baptized, her body went rigid and our team was concerned she was having a seizure. A few of the mission pastors gathered around her and prayed for her; she was immediately okay. When a team member asked one of the leaders what had happened, he replied, "Whatever was in her couldn't stand whatever was in the water." In other words, they interpreted it (probably correctly) as demonic. They dealt with it and went on. She was delivered through the water. The one tormenting her was destroyed in the water. Sometimes the truth is simpler than big theological arguments.

Proverbs. Wounds and rebukes hurt. But they are a huge benefit to those who will learn from them. May God keep my heart open to correction.

What speaks to you today?

November 5

Today's Reading

Ezekiel saw a nation of false leaders, false preachers (prophets) and false security. I learned long ago how people would paint over the rusted parts of cars without fully removing the rust. It looked good -- until the rust ate back through. I don't want my life to be like that; do you?

Hebrews. I believe that Melchizedek was what we call a "Theophany" or a "Christophany." In other words, an appearance of God in human form in the Old Testament. We have seen several of those in our reading this year. He was "King of Salem", meaning "King of Peace" and Jesus was called "Prince of Peace." Salem was ancient Jerusalem. This passage shows the Melchizedek was greater than Abraham, but it also teaches us something very important about the oriental understanding of life. It says that Levi (the Patriarch of the priestly tribe in Israel and the great-grandson of Abraham) was "in" Abraham when he paid tithes so Levi paid tithes to Melchizedek. You and I can grow from this understanding when we realize that we were "in" Adam when he sinned in the garden. This doesn't mean that we were pre-existing, but that our life was wrapped up in him. When we become a Christian, we are now "in Christ Jesus." Our life is now wrapped up in Christ.

Psalms. God's love is so generous! If only we would respond by drawing near to Him. What we often do is take Him for granted. I know that I sometimes do!

Proverbs. I watched this recently. Someone's foolish actions caused resentment in the person's friends. Just like today's verse says!

What do you notice today?

November 4

Today's Reading

In Ezekiel today, God used a vision to transport the prophet back to Jerusalem. Ezekiel was in exile in Babylon. There, the Lord showed Ezekiel how sinful the attitudes of the people were. Then God promised a day would come when the exiles would return and God would change their hearts. That prophecy will ultimately be fulfilled with Christ's return. However, it was partially fulfilled in the day of Ezra and Nehemiah, which we have already read this year.

Hebrews today is one of the difficult New Testament passages to interpret. Is God saying that we can be "enlightened", then lose our salvation? Some interpret the passage that way, but they have a difficulty with it. The Christians who believe we can lose our salvation tend to believe we can get it back again by repenting and this passage seems to say the opposite. These difficult verses are one reason I believe that the letter was written to a group of believers who were in danger of missing their destiny. They would be like the generation of Israel who died in the wilderness. They weren't far from the Promised Land (the abundant life God promises), but they missed it because they wouldn't believe God and take the Land by faith.

Psalms today reviews a key part of Israel's history. How do you keep your family's history alive?

Proverbs. If it's good, it's from God. If it's bad, I messed it up. 

What speaks to you today?

November 3

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. It's easy to see results of God's judgment and say, "How can He call Himself a loving God? Look at what He did to all those innocent people." Perhaps we need to see what He sees, as happened to Ezekiel in chapter 8. Chapter 9 made me ask myself if I would be "marked" as someone who has wept over the sins of my people. What about you?

Hebrews. If the Son of God learned obedience through sufferings, how about you and me? We are tempted to think that there must be some other way to learn, but our trials are intended to bring the impurities (dross) of our lives to the surface. We can then confess those things a yield our life to God who loves us.

Psalms. "8 He always stands by his covenant—
the commitment he made to a thousand generations." Amen!

Proverbs. When we lie, there's some hatred at the root. Even if it's self-hatred.

What did you notice today?

November 2

Today's Reading

Ezekiel. God made it clear that Ezekiel had the role of Watchman for Israel. How do you think that assignment relates to you and me in our day?

Hebrews. Entering God's rest. He's not talking about the grave and He's not discussing Sunday naps (even though I love mine). He's talking about that place in which we completely yield our entire life to Him and trust Him with it. No matter what happens to us, He is in charge. He will provide what we need. He loves us. We rest from trying to be in control. We rest from trying to please God in our own strength. "14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."Psalms. Oh, how God loves you and me. May we be pleasing to Him!

Proverbs. Or, "What goes around comes around."

What speaks to you today?

November 1

Today's Reading

Only two months to go, Climbing Companions! We are moving to the "downhill slide" of the holidays. I encourage you to do your best and carve out time in your schedule for the upcoming busy season.

Ezekiel begins today with a view into the heavenlies. Much of what Ezekiel saw is very mystical and difficult to interpret. Some of what happened, though, is quite practical. For instance, "8 But look, I have made you as obstinate and hard-hearted as they are. 9 I have made your forehead as hard as the hardest rock!" Sometimes God has to give a spiritual leader a hard head to be able to stand against a hard-headed church. I have seen it and am amazed at how God can use it.

Hebrews today includes what I believe is the core truth in the book. It takes us back to the way Israel hardened their hearts against God and had to die in the wilderness. Then it says, "13 You must warn each other every day, while it is still 'today,' so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God."

Psalms. "In the beginning, God..." We are His workmanship. This is His creation. He set it in order and He is in charge. It is overwhelming that He wants a relationship with us.

Proverbs. The slick words of the treacherous are ultimately found out. I sometimes pray for the truth to come out when I sense that someone is lying.

How do today's passages affect you?