Luke 14:16 -19 But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to … More No excuses
For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the LORD, and he ponders all his paths. Proverbs 5:21 (in our read-through-the-Bible plan today) The Bible often refers to our life as “a path.” As you ponder your path today, consider these verses below. Ask God to show you and keep you on the path … More Ponder your path
Phillip Graham Ryken writes in Thermelios: Ezra was a great man—one of the all-time heroes of the faith. He had the will to lead; he had a heart for holiness; he had a mind for biblical truth. If we want to follow his example, we should ask what made him so great and so good. What … More The gracious hand of God
1 Timothy 3:4-5 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? John Piper comments: The word “manage” is a wonderful word with at least two dimensions of meaning to it. It … More Piper: The aim of leadership is not coercion but care.
John Piper asks, “Whom Shall We Invite to Thanksgiving Dinner?” (Luke 14:1-14) Up till now Jesus has talked to the guests. Now he turns to the host. “Don’t touch that snake, lest it bite you and you die.” “Don’t climb that rope, lest it break and you fall.” “Don’t invite your friends and brothers and … More “Danger! Repayment ahead!”
John Piper mentions five biblical instructions for how to get real wisdom: First, desire wisdom with all your might. Proverbs 4:8 says, “Prize her highly and she will exalt you; she will honor you for your embrace.” These are not cheap words. To prize something and to embrace someone are signs of intense desire and love. Wisdom must be valuable for us. We … More Piper: How to get REAL wisdom
Ray Stedman, in a 1965 sermon, “Ezra:The Way Back” comments on the events of Ezra 6: The minute the people began to turn back to God, he also turned the hearts of the kings, Darius and Artaxerxes, and they issued the decree that started the temple work again. Finally the work was finished. In chapter … More Celebrating the passover…again
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who … More What Makes Prayer So Important?
And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand … More Enter through the narrow door
I grew up in a home where we were urged to memorize scripture, including Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” What a great reminder: Trust in the Lord with all … More Trust in the Lord with all your heart.
Knowing God through His Word ... Day by Day 