The Daily Walk

May 1

Ezra 1-2

Ezra is a story of restoration, reconstruction, and revival. After 70 years of captivity in Babylon, the Jews were freed by King Cyrus of Persia and allowed to return to their homeland. Two homebound expeditions follow. The first contingent, led by Zerubbabel and involving about 50,000 people, travels to Jerusalem to reconstruct the temple (chapters 1-6). Eighty years later, Ezra leads the second expedition, which is made up largely of priests and Levites (chapters 7–10).

May 1

Ezra 1-3

Commission of the Temple Builders

Key Passage: Ezra 1, 3

Overview

At last, the wearisome Babylonian captivity is at an end. With the declaration of King Cyrus permitting the people to leave Persia and return to their homeland, the hard work of rebuilding the nation can begin. Nearly 50,000 pilgrims journey with Zerubbabel back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. But laying the temple foundation brings tears of remembrance as the builders recall the splendor that was once Solomon’s temple—a splendor they could not regain.

Your Daily Walk

How long have you lived at your present location? Statistically, if you are an American and have lived in the place you call home for seven years or longer, you are a vanishing breed.

Pulling up stakes is never easy. Anticipation and anxiety can make the ordeal as difficult emotionally as it is physically. Consider the caravan of pioneers listed in Ezra 2. The walk ahead of them was long—nearly a thousand miles. There was the constant danger of ambush from robbers, especially since the people were transporting a wealth of temple treasures (1:9 -11). Notwithstanding, God had stirred people’s hearts to respond to the invitation of a pagan monarch. With such internal compulsion and external confirmation, how could they help but move out for God?

Is God calling you to pull up stakes—to move to a new home, a new school, a new job, a new level of commitment to Him? Then, here is a motto to copy and display in your home or office: Even a dangerous journey of a thousand miles can be faced confidently when God leads the expedition.

Insight - Cyrus, God’s Pagan Messiah

About 150 years before the dramatic proclamation of Ezra 1:1- 4, the prophet Isaiah delivered a detailed prophecy concerning King Cyrus (Isaiah 44:28–45:7). Because the Lord would prompt Cyrus to do all these things for the Jews, he is called “my shepherd” (44:28) and “[My] anointed” (literally, “messiah”; 45:1).

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May 2

Ezra 4-6

Completion of the Temple Project

Key Passage: Ezra 4:1-5, 24; 6:13-22

Overview

The task of rebuilding the temple involves more than simply organizing men and materials. Antagonism from local citizens soon arises to threaten the project. Deceitful offers of help, open attack, false accusations—each must be handled by Zerubbabel with conviction and courage. Though the builders are temporarily stopped, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah emerge to exhort the people not to give up. Darius, a new and sympathetic Persian king, at last, ends the 15-year construction delay by reconfirming the decree of Cyrus: God’s temple must be completed!

Your Daily WalkOurs is an instant society in which immediate results have almost become the rule. Fast, quick, and easy are the buzzwords of our busy lives. Yet, there are many endeavors for God that will only be accomplished if the long-range perspective is maintained. Parenting a child, developing a spiritual gift, discipling a new Christian, acquiring an education, teaching a Sunday school class—all these take the investment of years of practice, patience, and perseverance for the goal to be achieved.

If Zerubbabel had allowed the short-term discouragements to deter him from his long-range determination to rebuild the temple, he never would have finished the task. But with his goal clearly in view and his faith firmly fixed in God, Zerubbabel was able to stay on target for more than 20 years.

Complete this prayer: “Though I may not experience instant success in my goal of __________, with God’s help, I will commit myself to be faithful one day at a time, beginning today.”

Insight - Ezra the Priest—Which Way Did He Go?

In a book titled “Ezra,” you would expect the man to play a prominent role. With the help of a Bible concordance (or just by retracing your steps), see how many times Ezra’s name appears in the first six chapters. The answer may surprise you.

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May 3

Ezra 7-8

Commission of the Spiritual Leaders

Key Passage: Ezra 7:11-28; 8:31-36

Overview

Chapter 7 breaks a 58-year silence with the introduction of a priest and teacher named Ezra. Another kingly proclamation, this time by Artaxerxes, sets the stage for Ezra to return to Jerusalem accompanied by 1,753 priests, Levites, and laymen. After praying and fasting, Ezra and his caravan begin the four-month journey, weighed down with treasures for the temple yet buoyed up by their confidence in God.

Your Daily Walk

Have you ever tried to help God by doing what He has already promised to do Himself?

Abraham tried it (Genesis 16) by fathering Ishmael, even though God had promised to give him a son, Sarah. Saul tried it (1 Samuel 17:38-39) by covering David with the king’s bulky armor, though the young shepherd boy knew God wanted him to use a different method to kill the giant Goliath.

Ezra was tempted to try it, too. When presented with the chance to enlist pagan soldiers and horsemen for protection against enemies along the way, Ezra went to his knees and received the assurance of something he had previously told pagan King Artaxerxes: “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him” (8:22). Armed with that confidence, Ezra and the people set out on a four-month adventure in trusting God. God proved His faithfulness once more!

What human crutch are you tempted to turn to when things get tough? To your checkbook? Investments? Friends? Job security? Spouse? Or do you turn to the Lord? In confident prayer, turn to Him right now and watch Him guide your pilgrimage.

Insight - Three Leaders, Three Backgrounds

God chose three very different men to lead the three Jerusalem “homecomings.” Zerubbabel was a prince of Judah; Ezra was a priest and Levite; and Nehemiah was a politician from an unspecified tribe.

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May 4/5

Ezra 9-10

Completion of the Spiritual Reforms

Key Passage: Ezra 9:1–10:17

Overview

Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, Ezra is greeted by reports of pollution in the city. Spiritually mixed marriages—expressly forbidden in the Law of God—are taking place among people and priesthood alike. The news brings instant anguish to the “teacher well versed in the Law of Moses” (7:6). Identifying himself with his disobedient countrymen, Ezra intercedes with an emotional prayer of confession. The guilty parties, moved by Ezra’s example, assemble to bring about change appropriate to repentance. Even though it’s the rainy season, the difficult and time-consuming job of restoring purity in Israel’s families begins.

Your Daily Walk

The statement, “Confession is good for the soul,” is not a biblical quote, but it is a biblical concept. Look up the following verses to see what each says about the importance of confession:

• Acts 19:18-20
• James 5:16
• 1 John 1:9

Real confession involves two elements: (1) an acknowledgment of wrong committed, and (2) a forsaking of wrong conduct. Chapters 9-10 of Ezra describe a situation that demanded both acknowledging (“We have been unfaithful,” 10:2) and forsaking (“Separate yourselves,” 10:11). Though the cure was painful, God found pleasure in the nation’s prompt and wholehearted confession.

Is confession overdue in your life today? There’s no better time to complete this prayer: “God, I acknowledge that I have sinned against You, and beginning today with Your help, I will forsake __________.”

Insight - Putting Yourself into Your Prayers

More than 30 occurrences of the plural pronouns us, we, and our in Ezra’s prayer of intercession (9:5-15) show that Ezra—though innocent of the charges—identified himself with the condition of his countrymen. Do you pray that way for your family, church, and nation?

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Nehemiah

Contemporary of Ezra and cupbearer to the king of Persia, Nehemiah leads the third and final return of the Jews to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Under his leadership, the people undertake the enormous task of rebuilding the holy city’s shattered walls that had been destroyed almost a century earlier. Despite opposition and deceit from without and abuse from within, the task is completed in only 52 days—a feat that even Israel’s enemies must attribute to God’s power.

May 6

Nehemiah 1-2

Wall Plans Conceived

Key Passage: Nehemiah 1:1–2:8

Overview

Nearly a century has passed since Zerubbabel led the first group of Jewish hostages from Babylon back to their homeland. But though the temple stands erect, inviting worshipers from near and far, the walls lie in rubble, inviting enemy attacks. Nehemiah, the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia, hears this heartbreaking news. With a carefully and prayerfully conceived plan, he is ready when the king inquires: “What is it you want?” (2:4). Accompanied by army and cavalry units, Nehemiah returns to Jerusalem to inspect the damage and infuse his countrymen with the will to raise the walls.

Your Daily Walk

What would you think of someone who, upon plugging in an iron and finding that it didn’t work, responded, “Well, I guess it just wasn’t God’s will for it to get hot”? Irons are supposed to get hot! Appliances are supposed to work. And when they don’t, you need to check the connections because something is obviously wrong. You expect a hot iron—and rightly so.

Now, consider your prayer life. Does it “get hot”? That is, does God answer your prayers in regular, discernible ways? Or are you surprised when an answer to prayer comes? Your expectation should be answered prayer, for God has staked His reputation on it. Nehemiah learned that exciting truth, and you can, too.

Spend a few extra minutes basking in these biblical prayer promises: Jeremiah 33:3; Matthew 7:7-11; John 16:24; 1 John 5:14-15. Pick one and “plug it in” to your prayer life today. Watch for God’s answer, and be thankful when it comes. That’s what prayer is all about.

Insight - Persian Cupbearer: Servant or Something Else?

Nehemiah was more than a royal waiter. He was also a confidante, advisor, administrator, bodyguard, and food taster (to protect the king from poisoning)—a position of high trust and authority. Today, we would call him a prime minister.

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May 7

Nehemiah 3-4

Wall Plans Commenced

Key Passage: Nehemiah 4

Overview

Nehemiah’s dream of rebuilding the walls now becomes contagious! The people rise up in unison, trowels in hand, to repair the eight gates and more than two miles of wall surrounding the city. Nehemiah’s strategy is simple: give each person a vested interest in the work. To ensure both speed and quality of workmanship, he assigns each worker the portion of the wall nearest the worker’s own house. It’s difficult to do a sloppy job when you know that if enemies break through a defective portion of the wall, the first people jeopardized will be your own family. However, the entire project will soon be threatened by outside opposition. Harmless ridicule gives way to threats of violence, and Nehemiah responds with a combination of prayer and preparation.

Your Daily Walk

“Pray like it’s up to God; then act like it’s up to you.” Although those words are not scriptural, they contain more than a germ of truth. Over and over, God has told you to take your problems and anxieties to Him. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). Take a lesson from Nehemiah. When troubles come, turn your problems into prayers—pronto.

But once you have prayed through your problems, don’t expect angels to finish building your walls. Pick up your trowel and finish the job God has given you. “So that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands” (Deuteronomy 14:29).

Pick a situation in your life that needs prayer coupled with preparation. Pray it through, work it out, and watch the results.

Insight - The Special Gate for God

The East Gate (3:29), through which the Shechinah glory (a visible manifestation of God’s presence) left, is also the gate by which Ezekiel sees God’s glory return (Ezekiel 43:1-17) to reside in the temple’s Holy of Holies during the Kingdom Age, as he had seen its departure during the fall of Jerusalem.

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May 8

Nehemiah 5-7

Wall Plans Concluded

Key Passage: Nehemiah 5; 6:15-19

Overview

Internal strife in the Israelite camp causes as much unrest as the battle thrusts from outside the camp. The people are suffering under the financial stress imposed by their Persian masters. Worse yet, the Israelites are exacting interest from their own brothers who have borrowed to pay their debts. After correcting this abuse, Nehemiah again turns his attention toward the threats from neighboring enemies. He is not ensnared by an assassination plot on his life, nor will he be intimidated by the threats of a slanderous letter. After 52 days of building and battling, the walls stand completed. Finally, the holy city of Jerusalem can be resettled.

Your Daily Walk

How do you react when you see the poor exploited? Does your heart beat a little faster? Now imagine it is a member of your family being exploited. How would you respond to that?

Lack of grain and oppressive Persian rule had forced some of the Hebrews in Jerusalem to mortgage their homes and sell themselves into slavery to pay their debts. When Nehemiah heard that the rich were extorting money from their own countrymen, his reaction was immediate and unmistakable.

You may never have exacted interest from someone suffering hardships, but have you been guilty of taking advantage of another Christian by ignoring his difficult circumstances? Leave your money at home today and let your empty wallet remind you of the usury tactics of Nehemiah’s day. Then, look for a way to assist, rather than simply avoid, a Christian brother or sister who is in difficult financial straits.

Insight - Doing Wrong to Do Right Is Wrong, Right?

Shemaiah’s offer of safety in the temple (Nehemiah 6:10-14) was a direct violation of God’s Law that forbade anyone other than priests from entering the sanctuary. Even if Shemaiah had been telling the truth (which he wasn’t), for Nehemiah to enter the temple would have been a fatal mistake.

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May 9

Nehemiah 8-10

Renewed Worship Commenced

Key Passage: Nehemiah 8:1-12

Overview

The first half of Nehemiah’s account describes the construction of the city walls; the second half contains instructions for the city worshipers. Beginning with chapter 8, the account becomes biographical rather than autobiographical as Nehemiah deals with the spiritual, rather than the physical, well-being of the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Revival breaks out when the Word of God is translated, broadcast, and explained to the common people. Ezra’s preaching produces heartfelt confession, wholehearted worship, and refreshing resolve to bring the nation’s wayward conduct in line with its covenant relationship with God.

Your Daily Walk

This evening, as a family, with a friend, or just by yourself, go through your house and gather up every trace of Scripture you can find: every Bible, Bible motto or poster, every hymnbook or gospel recording, every gospel tract or Christian biography. Pile them all together. Then strike a match as you ponder this sobering thought: Someday, you may lose the priceless freedom you enjoy today of surrounding yourself with God’s Word. (Now, blow out the match.)

If that ever happened, how much of God’s Word would you have hidden away in your heart, where no tyrant can invade (Psalm 119:11)? Ezra’s reading of the long-neglected Book of the Law produced tears of gladness and grief—gladness over the return of God’s Word to its proper place in the nation, and grief that the nation had drifted so far from God’s will and way. It could never happen in your country—or could it? And isn’t it worth five minutes of daily prayer to help see that it won’t?

Insight - Ezra, the Elusive Priest

Just as Ezra does not appear until chapter 7 of the book that bears his name, he also does not appear until chapter 8 of the Book of Nehemiah—a natural dividing point for the book. Chapters 1-7 center around the work of God in building the wall; chapters 8-13 focus on the worship of God in obedience to the Law.

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May 10

Nehemiah 11-13

Renewed Nation Cleansed

Key Passage: Nehemiah 13

Overview

With his time in Jerusalem nearly ending, Nehemiah busies himself with the final duties of his mission. He oversees the redistribution of the people in the cities—one-tenth of the population in Jerusalem and the rest in surrounding suburbs. A joyous celebration is held in which two processions of praising people march along the walls to dedicate them to God. Nine years after returning to Persia, Nehemiah hears disturbing news from his homeland again. He returns to correct abuses in the temple and deal with the stubborn problem of mixed marriages.

Your Daily Walk

It is sad but true that those who do not learn from history are destined to repeat it. The closing chapters of Nehemiah provide a sobering warning and an opportunity to learn from the past.

The people under Nehemiah had made several vows in chapter 10. They agreed to obey God’s Word, abstain from intermarriage with pagan people, keep the Sabbath, and support temple worship. Less than a decade later, they had broken every promise.

Today would be a great time to renew old promises and vows before the Lord. Are you married? If so, spend some quiet time with your spouse, reminding each other of the vows you made on your wedding day. Confess your areas of failure and praise your spouse for vows faithfully kept.

If you are a single, never-married Christian, you have an extra privilege (and responsibility) to serve God with undivided attention during your single years (1 Corinthians 7:32-33). Use that privilege today.

Insight - Nehemiah’s Prophetic Partner

Malachi, who lived and ministered during the same time as Nehemiah, spoke to the moral condition of the Jews who returned to Jerusalem. You might want to read his short four-chapter book in connection with Nehemiah. Malachi paints a bleak picture of coldhearted indifference toward God—a condition that persisted for 400 years until the appearance of the Promised One (John 1:29).

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Esther

The Book of Esther provides the only biblical portrait of most Jews who chose to remain in Persia after the exile rather than return to Jerusalem. Though God’s name appears nowhere in the book, His divine hand of providence and protection on behalf of His people can be seen throughout. The plot of Haman to exterminate the Jews (chapters 1-4) is thwarted by the courage of Esther and the wise counsel of Mordecai, resulting in a great deliverance (chapters 5-10).

May 11/12

Esther 1-2

Esther Becomes Queen of Persia

Key Passage: Esther 1:1-12; 2:8-23

Overview

Xerxes, the Persian king, hosts a sumptuous banquet for his court officials. After a week of partying, the king calls for Queen Vashti to entertain the guests. When she denies his request, he banishes her from the palace in a fit of anger and embarrassment and begins the search for a new queen. Esther, a beautiful Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai (2:7) and living in exile under Nebuchadnezzar, rises above the competition and wins the king’s heart. Through Mordecai, Esther learns of a plot against the king and tells him in time to save his life. The heroism of Mordecai is duly recorded in the official records—and promptly forgotten.

Your Daily Walk

If anyone ever had reason to have vengeful thoughts, it was Mordecai. When he was first deported under Nebuchadnezzar’s army in 597 B.C., Mordecai’s family was transported hundreds of miles from their homeland. Life in exile was the only life Mordecai had ever known.

If anyone ever had occasion to translate vengeful thoughts into action, it was Mordecai. Unknown to the king (but well known to Mordecai), an assassination plot was afoot. It would have been easy for Mordecai to remain silent, reasoning that the Lord’s vengeance was at work at last. But instead, Mordecai risked his life to save the king.

What would you have done in a similar situation? Look up the following verses and see what each has to say about the way God wants you to respond to those in authority over you: Romans 13:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; 1 Peter 2:17. Now complete this sentence: “Instead of getting even, with God’s help I will respond to someone who deserves my vengeance by __________.”

Insight - The Girl Who Went from Rags to Riches

Esther changed overnight from an obscure Jewish girl to the queen who had at her disposal up to “half the kingdom” of Persia (5:3). That kingdom extended from modern-day Greece (west) to India (east) and from southern Russia (north) to Saudi Arabia (south), an area of more than 600,000 square miles!

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May 13

Esther 3-4

Haman Plots to Destroy the Jews

Key Passage: Esther 3:1-6; 4:13-17

Overview

After Mordecai’s heroic deed, the villain Haman enters the drama. Enraged by Mordecai’s refusal to bow down to him in reverence, Haman devises a sinister plot to exterminate Mordecai along with every Jew in Persia. The superstitious throw of the dice determines the date of his proposed massacre, and the 11-month countdown begins. When Mordecai confronts Esther with the danger of Haman’s plan, she is left with a painful choice: either approach the king (and possibly lose her life) or remain silent (and allow the annihilation of her people and herself).

Your Daily Walk

Make a mental list of things you know about yourself that no one else knows: details that could be used against you if they were public knowledge. Now consider that Esther’s secret ancestry changed overnight from an asset to a liability. The same Jewish ancestry that provided her incredible beauty now put her life in jeopardy. She could have turned her back on her “roots” and her countrymen, enjoying the protection of the palace. Instead, she identified herself with the people of God and made herself available for God’s service.

Are you tempted to disqualify yourself from God’s service because of something in your background? Perhaps God has raised you up “for such a time as this” (4:14). But before God can use you, He must possess you—assets, liabilities, and all.

Insight - Moses, Esther, and Who?

Esther could have turned her back on the plight of the Jews and relied on the privilege of her rank and the protection of the palace. This was also true of Moses. He abandoned all the privileges of the Egyptian palace and “chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time” (Hebrews 11:25). Can you think of another who abandoned kingly privileges in order to rescue His people?

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May 14

Esther 5-7

Esther Plans to Save the Jews

Key Passage: Esther 5, 7

Overview

Fortified with faith, Esther courageously enters the king’s court to make known her request. Wisely, she invites the king and Haman to a special banquet in their honor and uses the occasion to invite them to a second banquet. Before the second banquet takes place, however, three events happen in rapid sequence: Haman builds an enormous gallows for hanging Mordecai; King Xerxes discovers Mordecai’s previously overlooked act of bravery in saving his life; and Haman is forced to endure the humiliation of bestowing on Mordecai the very honor that he so greedily craved. At the second banquet, Esther uncovers the plot against the Jews, and then Haman is hanged on his own gallows.

Your Daily Walk

Toss a coin in the air, and see how many times in a row you can correctly guess which way it will land. Statistically, if you succeed five times in a row, you have done what only one person in 32 might be expected to do.

In the first seven chapters of Esther, at least a dozen events show the fingerprints of God’s sovereign control, including Esther’s coronation, Mordecai’s forgotten act of bravery, Haman’s lots, Esther’s uninvited audience with the king, the timing of Esther’s two banquets, and the king’s insomnia. (Can you suggest six more?) The odds of 12 events happening in consecutive order by chance are one in 479 million! Incidentally, the “odds” of this happening in God’s sovereign plan are one in one. Both the what and the when of life are under His loving control. Take a minute to acknowledge that fact before Him right now in a prayer of praise for His providence in your life.

Insight - The Fickle, Forgetful Monarch (6:1-11)

During his sleepless night following Esther’s first banquet, King Xerxes discovered Mordecai’s act of heroism duly recorded in the court chronicles. The king instructed Haman to give Mordecai the equivalent of a modern-day ticker-tape parade—completely forgetting he had just signed an edict to exterminate the Jews.

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May 15

Esther 8-10

Jews Commemorate God’s Deliverance

Key Passage: Esther 8:1–9:19

Overview

Haman is dead, but his murderous decree against the Jews lives on. Though a “law of the Medes and the Persians” could never be reversed, its effects could be counteracted by a subsequent decree. The king issues a new edict permitting the Jews to defend themselves throughout the empire on the day Haman had selected to annihilate them. The Feast of Purim is inaugurated as an annual celebration to commemorate this historic deliverance of the Jewish people.

Your Daily Walk

What do the following words have in common: 'Tishri', 'Chislev', 'Nisan', 'Adar', and 'Sivan'?

Answer: They are all months in the Jewish calendar. For the devout Jew, the calendar was more than a way of marking time. It provided a ready-made way to annually recall God’s dealings in the life of the nation. Nisan marked Passover, the time of Israel’s deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Sivan brought the Feast of Pentecost, the celebration of yet another bountiful harvest from God. Tishri took the people back to their wilderness wanderings through the Festival of Booths. Each holiday became a holy day—a time of recalling, repenting, and renewing commitments to follow the God of Israel.

Why not establish your own annual “Feast of Purim,” a time when you and your family rehearse God’s special provisions over the past year? Begin tonight.

Insight - Present-Day Purim

Devout Jews observe Purim as follows: The day preceding (13th of Adar) is kept as a day of fasting per the command of Queen Esther (4:15-16). As soon as the stars appear, candles are lit and the Book of Esther is read in the synagogue. Every time the name of Haman is mentioned in the reading, the congregation stamps on the floor exclaiming, “Let his name be blotted out. The name of the wicked shall rot!” The rest of the festival involves feasting, games, and an exchange of presents.

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April 17

1 Chronicles 17–21

David’s Kingdom Expanded

Key Passage: 1 Chronicles 17–18

Overview

While David enjoys a cedar palace, God's ark resides in a mere tent—a fact that prompts David to contemplate a monumental building project. Even the prophet Nathan encourages David in his God-honoring ambition. But then, through the prophet, God delivers a ringing “You are not the one” (17:4) along with a heartwarming promise of an ongoing dynasty and an eternal kingdom for David’s descendants. However, David, the mighty man of war, must leave the fulfillment of his dream to his son Solomon and concentrate instead on enlarging the kingdom God entrusted to him.

Your Daily Walk

Consider the following contrasts taken from the lives of a father and son: David and Solomon.

David was a man of war; Solomon was a man of peace. David dreamed of building the temple; Solomon erected and dedicated the temple.

God told David, “I will not give you what you asked for.” Solomon was told, “I will give you what you did not ask for.” Yet, despite the differences in their lives, there is one resounding similarity: Both men glorified God in their lifetimes.

There is something far more painful than being denied a cherished dream or ambition, and that is undertaking the ambition anyway, only to find that God is not in it. Has God set up a red light in your path? And are you ignoring the signal or looking for alternate routes to His glory? Each time you stop for a red light today, commit one of your dreams or goals to God. Where He has put a period, don’t put a question mark.

Insight - No Cover-Up Intended!

David’s sin with Bathsheba and his subsequent murder of Uriah took place between 20:1 and 20:2. In his intention to focus on themes of true worship and true kingship in the nation’s history, the Chronicler was selective in his choice of material. He omitted details of David’s private life, not because he wanted to whitewash the past, but because he knew those incidents were already known and recorded.

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April 18

1 Chronicles 22–27

David’s Worship Organized

Key Passage: 1 Chronicles 22–23

Overview

Though David’s desire to build a house for God must wait, nothing keeps him from preparing for it. He chooses the most appropriate site (the threshing floor of Ornan), gathers the building materials, charges his son Solomon to finish the task, and enlists the support of all the key men in Israel. Then, he outlines the 24 orders of priests, 24 divisions of singers and musicians, gatekeepers, treasurers, and other officeholders who will oversee the military and civil affairs of the nation in its new place of corporate worship.

Your Daily Walk

What are you doing today to help your children accomplish great things for God tomorrow?

David is a marvelous example of a farsighted father. The greatness that Solomon would later achieve was largely due to David's careful planning and provision before his own death. Though Solomon received acclaim for building the temple, which bears his name, David drew the blueprints, gathered the materials, signed up the workers, and instituted a vigorous public relations program to ensure support for the project. In his heart, David envisioned greatness for Solomon that he himself would never achieve, and he did his best to pave the way for it.

What sort of heritage will you leave for your children and even your grandchildren to build upon? Will they someday be able to thank God for your farsightedness in building a library, providing for their education, or instilling a vision for ministry that they can continue after you are gone? Plan a “Project for Future Greatness” and begin it this week.

Insight - An Ironic Twist to the Priestly Office

In chapter 24, the priests were divided into 24 orders or “divisions” for service in the temple. They were called “officials of God” (v. 5) and had charge of the sacrifices. Their work was to cease with the coming of Christ, but ironically, it was the priests themselves who engineered the crucifixion of Christ (Matthew 27:1, 6, 20, 41).

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April 19

1 Chronicles 28–29

David’s Kingdom Passed On to Solomon

Key Passage: 1 Chronicles 29:22-30

Overview

Today’s reading forms a fitting conclusion to the life of David, for here he is portrayed in all his wisdom and humility as David the counselor, encourager, exhorter, and worshiper. In sharp contrast to the bitter infighting and civil unrest that characterized David’s ascension to the throne, Solomon’s ascension is attended by national worship and rejoicing. Even David’s death cannot dampen the mood of optimism and thanksgiving the nation feels for the godly leadership they enjoy. The crowning epitaph of David’s life is that “he died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor” (29:28).

Your Daily Walk

The saddest contradiction to the Christian life is all too often the average Christian funeral. While grief is a necessary part of any loved one’s passing, the Christian has cause for rejoicing when a brother or sister in Christ is finally “away from the body and at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). There is hope and comfort in those words that the world knows nothing about.

The one sermon you can be sure everyone important to you will hear is the one preached over your casket. Have you thought about the words you want spoken on that occasion? Will those in attendance hear a clear presentation of the good news of Jesus Christ? Will they find out why you could face death fearlessly, knowing it would bring you face to face with your Lord?

Jesus Christ turned every funeral He ever attended into a cause for celebration. The morbid wailing of the mourners would be cut short by the miraculous life-giving touch of the Savior, and the dead would live again. What plans are you making today to ensure that your funeral speaks as eloquently as your life that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21)?

Insight - David’s Building and Loan Association (29:1-9)

Before David’s death, he had diligently gathered a temple-building fund of gold and silver from personal and national contributions that would, by modern standards, be valued at several billion dollars.

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2 Chronicles

The Book of 2 Chronicles spans four centuries of Judah’s history, from Solomon's glory days to the Babylonian Exile's conclusion. Following the death of Solomon, a succession of good and bad kings rises to power. As the leaders, so go the people, until finally, the spiritually bankrupt nation is carried off into captivity. But the final verses of 2 Chronicles sparkle with hope. After 70 years, the Persian King Cyrus decrees the rebuilding of God’s house and the return of God’s people.

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April 20/21

2 Chronicles 1–5 Solomon’s

Temple Erected

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 1, 5

Overview

A father’s dream becomes a son’s delight as Solomon undertakes the greatest architectural feat of his lifetime: building the temple in Jerusalem. Large numbers of men and great quantities of materials, plus seven years of Solomon’s life, are invested in the task of completing the house of the Lord. When, at last, the temple stands finished with the ark of the covenant in place, Solomon leads the people and musicians in heartfelt praise to God. “They raised their voices in praise to the Lord and sang....The glory of the Lord filled the temple of God” (5:13-14).

Your Daily Walk

When commissioned by God to do a job, Solomon allowed nothing to stand in the way of completing his God-given assignment. With breathtaking speed, he organized more than 150,000 workers and tons of materials.

Solomon’s zeal and enthusiasm for God left scant time for coffee breaks as long as there was still work to be done. If you were to evaluate your enthusiasm for God’s service, where would it fall on the following scale?

This month, you learned to do everything “as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). Now add this thought from 1 Corinthians 10:31—do everything honorably “for the glory of God.”

Insight - Gold, Gold, Everywhere

Nearly every feature of the temple—including the walls, doors, nails, and furnishings involving gold or gold overlay—was made possible by King David (1 Chronicles 22:14), who set aside from his personal treasury 3,750 tons of pure gold. In 1 Chronicles 29:4, David gave an additional 100 tons of gold.

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April 22

2 Chronicles 6–9 Solomon’s

Temple Dedicated

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 6, 9

Overview

In a setting fit for a king’s inauguration, Solomon now leads the nation in dedicating the newly completed temple to the glory and worship of the God of Israel. Kneeling on a specially constructed bronze scaffold, Solomon prays one of the most majestic and moving invocations found anywhere in the Bible. He overflows with praise to God, thanking Him for His unchanging character and unfailing promises on behalf of the nation. When Solomon finishes, the glory of God fills the temple, prompting the people to respond: “He is good; his love endures forever” (7:3). But even in the midst of worship and rejoicing, there is cause for concern. By night, God appears to Solomon to warn him that if the nation fails to remain true to Him, He will uproot them from their beloved homeland and destroy the magnificent temple which they have labored so long to complete.

Your Daily Walk

What do these three words have in common: salt, magnet, light? Answer: They are all descriptions of your task as a Christian.

Each day that God leaves you here on earth, you are to be like salt (making others thirsty for God), a magnet (drawing others to God), and light (showing the way to God). The queen of Sheba came hundreds of miles to learn of the wisdom and wealth of Israel’s king (9:1). Notice her conclusion: “Praise be to the Lord...who has delighted in you and placed you on his throne as king to rule for the Lord” (9:8). After looking at Solomon’s life, the queen gave glory to Solomon’s God. Is that what happens daily when others rub shoulders with you? Today, remember your God-given role— salt, magnet, light—and practice it.

Insight - Great Achievements of a Great Monarch

Chapter 8 describes more than a dozen of the major accomplishments of Solomon’s reign militarily, architecturally, religiously, and commercially. How many can you find?

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April 23

2 Chronicles 10–12

Rehoboam’s Divided Kingdom

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 10

Overview

Solomon is barely cold in his grave when the nation turns from worship to waywardness in its commitment to God. Solomon’s son Rehoboam imposes a foolish tax increase, prompting a bitter division of his kingdom. On the verge of civil war with Jeroboam (the newly established king of the northern 10 tribes), Rehoboam obeys the prophet's word and breaks off the conflict. But once his kingdom is established, he forsakes the Law of the Lord yet again. God sends a stinging rebuke in the person of Shishak, king of Egypt, who defeats Rehoboam’s army and plunders the wealth of the Lord’s house.

Your Daily Walk

Is your religion...
...like a spare tire? (You only use it in an emergency.)...like a wheelbarrow? (Easily upset and must be pushed.)...like a bus? (You ride it only when it goes your way.)...like a pacemaker? (You rely on it constantly.)

Rehoboam’s up-and-down spiritual life could be likened to a spare tire. When times were tough, he turned to God; when things were running smoothly, he forsook the Lord. It may remind you of God’s words through the prophet Hosea: “They were satisfied, they became proud; then they forgot me” (Hosea 13:6).

Take stock of your own life. Are things going smoothly? All bills paid? Enjoying good health? No major conflicts in your family, church, or neighborhood? Job secure? Refrigerator full? Watch out. Satan would love to trip you up by turning your eyes away from the Source of your supply. On the memo line of each check you write today, add the words “Don’t forget!” This might even provide an opportunity to witness for your Lord.

Insight - “Dear Diary, Today I Plundered a Temple...”

Inscriptions found on Egyptian temple walls show Shishak’s military success in plundering the Jerusalem temple during Rehoboam’s reign (12:9). One picture shows Shishak holding a group of Israelites by the hair and hitting them with a club—a painfully accurate rendering.

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April 24

2 Chronicles 13–16

Asa’s Reforms

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 15–16

Overview

Abijah, king of Judah, is used by God to discipline and defeat Jeroboam, king of Israel. During their battle, 500,000 Israelites fall—a shattering defeat from which Jeroboam will never fully recover. What Abijah accomplishes in the military sphere, Asa attempts to duplicate in the spiritual realm. He removes all traces of foreign religion from the land and commands the people to return to the careful observance of God’s statutes. But toward the end of his reign, Asa faces a threat from Baasha (king of Israel) and seeks an alliance of protection with the king of Syria. Even on his deathbed, he trusts earthly physicians alone, rather than the Great Physician.

Your Daily Walk

Have you ever found yourself in a seemingly hopeless situation where you looked at your circumstances and felt fear? Or despair? Or discouraged? What did you do? Did you try to fix the situation yourself? Or did you ask God to step in? Things were looking bad for King Asa. Baasha, the king of Israel, had sealed off all escape routes, and the situation looked hopeless. So Asa, instead of asking God to help, turned to the king of Syria, Ben-hadad, and bribed him to come to his rescue. From all outward appearances, the strategy worked.

But God saw it differently. Earlier, Asa had trusted in the Lord, not in foreign powers. Now, he turned from trusting in God to trusting in himself, and God disciplined him.

What is the pattern of your life: belief in God or belief in yourself or others? Faith or sight? God or self? Each time you are tempted to rely on yourself, remember that it’s always safe to trust the Lord.

Insight - A Dubious Distinction (16:7-10)

Hanani, the seer who condemned Asa for his reliance on foreign armies rather than on the Lord, becomes the earliest “persecuted prophet” in the pages of the Bible. (Check Luke 11:47-51 for the name of one other man who, though seldom thought of as a prophet, might also claim this rather dubious distinction.)

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April 25

2 Chronicles 17-20

Jehoshaphat’s Reforms

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 17, 20

Overview

Only 10 verses are given to godly King Jehoshaphat in 1 Kings, but the chronicler devotes a full four chapters to his life, and with good reason. Jehoshaphat knows that the key to spiritual revival in the nation is a renewed interest in and commitment to the Law of the Lord. He institutes a nationwide “Bible study program,” using the princes, Levites, and priests as teachers—an effort that God richly blesses with peace and prosperity. In contrast to his predecessors, Jehoshaphat manages to make peace with the king of Israel. But a friendly visit nearly costs him his life as he becomes entangled in a war between Israel and Syria. His reaction to divine rebuke, his appointment of judges to rule not “for man but for the Lord” (19:6), and his Godward response in the face of crisis all point to the day-by-day reality of his faith.

Your Daily Walk

Chapter 20 describes perhaps the most curious battle scene found anywhere in Scripture. Jehoshaphat leads his army out to confront the combined forces of Moab and Ammon.

His battle plan is simple: “Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you” (20:17). Then as if to add insult to injury, Jehoshaphat selects singers to go before the army and chant choruses of praise. While the singers sing and the soldiers stand at attention, God produces a mighty victory for Judah as the enemy forces “helped to destroy one another” (20:23).

Have you yet learned the lesson Jehoshaphat and the people of God learned? When the battle seems overwhelming, when the enemy is large and imposing, don’t turn and run. Instead, stand still, sing out, and watch God work.

Insight - A Big Mistake

Jehoshaphat’s alliance with Ahab (18:1–19:11) was a serious blunder, fully deserving the rebuke of the prophet Jehu (not to be confused with Jehu, grandson of Nimshi, who later wiped out the line of Ahab). The prophet’s question, “Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord?” (19:2) rebuked Jehoshaphat and prompted him to restore justice and priestly order in Judah.

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April 26

2 Chronicles 21-25

Judah’s Kings and Queens

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 21–22

Overview

Jehoram’s life proves that a bad marriage can undo even the best of upbringings. Raised by a godly father and grandfather, Jehoram marries the wicked daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, embraces her pagan deities, and leads the nation into idol worship once again. The atmosphere of trust and affection that characterized his father’s administration is replaced by a mood of suspicion and jealousy. As Jehoram’s first public act, he slays all his brothers and many key rulers in the nation—a move designed to secure his position as king, but which, in fact, leads to an excruciating and premature death. In rapid succession, his son, wife, and grandson come to the throne in a tale of family intrigue that must be read to be believed. Joash and Amaziah both become long-reigning kings with halfhearted commitments.

Your Daily Walk

No matter how many good apples you pack around a rotten one, you can’t make the rotten one good. But you can ruin an awful lot of good apples.

The same is true in the relationships people have with each other. One corrupting friendship is enough to drive a person away from God, even in the presence of countless righteous lives—provided that friendship is close enough and lasts long enough to exert its corrupting influence.

That’s why your close friends will mark you for life. That’s why your choice of a life mate is critically important. God clearly states in His Word: “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Examine your relationships. If you’re courting disaster, make the necessary changes before the “rotten apple” becomes you.

Insight - The Unenviable Life of a Ruler in Judah

All five rulers discussed in today’s reading met violent deaths. Four were murdered, and God struck one with an incurable disease. Half of the 20 rulers in Judah’s history died from unnatural causes.

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April 27/28

2 Chronicles 26-28

Ahaz’s Corruption

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 28

Overview

King Uzziah does mighty things for the nation of Judah, both militarily and architecturally. But spiritually, his life resembles a roller coaster. “As long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success....But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall” (26:5,16). Uzziah dies a leper’s death for his half-hearted devotion to God. By contrast, his grandson Ahaz is wholehearted in his zeal for false gods and pagan practices. Ahaz introduces images of Baal, worship in the heathen high places, and infant sacrifice. Though God repeatedly warns Ahaz of the danger of his ways and to turn the king’s heart back to Him, there is no response. Only one question remains: How long will God’s patience continue with His rebellious people?

Your Daily Walk

In the carpentry business, a 2×4 can come in many different lengths. But every 2×4 has one thing in common: It is about 2 inches thick and 4 inches wide.

When God disciplines an individual or a family or a church or a nation, often He does so with a painful set of circumstances. And though it would be easy to liken such an experience to being “hit over the head with a 2×4,” there is a fundamental difference: 2×4's used like that are for punitive reasons; God’s discipline is therapeutic.

Think back over the life of Ahaz as you have seen it unfold in 2 Chronicles 28 and 2 Kings 16. How did God try to get his attention and change his course of action through defeat in battle? The word of the prophet? Enemy occupation?

Before you are too hard on Ahaz, is there a lesson God has been waiting patiently for you to learn as well?

Insight - A Pagan Practice Punishable by Death

Infant sacrifice by fire was a brutal Canaanite ritual introduced into Judah by Ahaz. Not only was it abhorrent for human reasons, it was also a capital offense under the Mosaic Law, punishable by stoning (Leviticus 20:1-5).

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April 29

2 Chronicles 29-32

Hezekiah’s Reforms

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 29, 32

Overview

The Assyrian assault and dispersion of Israel are omitted at this point in the Chronicle's account, though they profoundly impact Hezekiah’s life and rule in Judah. Inheriting a disorganized country and a heavy burden of tribute to Assyria, Hezekiah nevertheless puts first things first. In the very first month of his administration, he reopened and repaired the house of the Lord, restored the long-neglected temple worship and Passover celebration, and declared war on idol worship and pagan practices. When the Assyrian King Sennacherib besieges Jerusalem, and the situation looks hopeless, Hezekiah puts his faith to work once again in earnest prayer for deliverance. God answers his plea and crowns his life with prestige and power.

Your Daily Walk

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to know that someone like Hezekiah prayed for you daily? Here was a man whose every recorded prayer was answered.

Wouldn’t you like to have that kind of “clout” working for you? Then read and ponder the margin’s sermon-in-a-sentence by Robert Murray McCheyne, a Scottish missionary and preacher who never lived to see his 30th birthday. See Hebrews 7:25.

Insight - “Dear Diary, It Was a Bad Day in Jerusalem...”

Sennacherib’s own account of this invasion was found on a clay prism he had made himself. It is now in the Oriental Institute Museum in Chicago and reads in part: “As for Hezekiah, king of Judah, who had not submitted to my yoke, 46 of his fortified cities...I besieged and captured...200,150 people...I took it as booty. Hezekiah himself, I shut up like a caged bird in Jerusalem, his royal city. I built a line of forts against him and turned back everyone who came forth out of his city gate.”

No Assyrian king would ever record a defeat, especially one as devastating as the Jerusalem debacle, but it is significant that Sennacherib did not claim to have taken Jerusalem—a most remarkable confirmation of biblical history.

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April 30

2 Chronicles 33-36

Judah’s Last Days

Key Passage: 2 Chronicles 34; 36:17-23

Overview

The final century of Judah’s national history reads like a bad dream. After Manasseh’s 55-year reign of terror and apostasy, even a godly reformer like Josiah is powerless to prick the hearts of the people, though, for a time, he can stem the external appearances of evil. But after his death, the nation swiftly returned to its abominable ways. Oppressed and eventually overthrown by the Babylonians, the people of Judah were slaughtered, their homes and temples destroyed, and their city walls leveled. The survivors are dragged off to Babylon, where they ponder their fate for 70 long years. But amid this doom and destruction shines a ray of hope. Cyrus, king of Persia, issues a decree: The house of the Lord must be rebuilt in Jerusalem. Who among His people is willing to return?

Your Daily Walk

For the Jews, Jerusalem represented their place of greatest failure. To stare at the rubble of what was once mighty Jerusalem—with its shattered temple and broken-down walls—must have broken the heart of even the most callous of God’s people. They had failed Him. They had gone their own sinful ways. And they had been punished.

Now, through Cyrus, God was calling His people back to “the crime scene” for a second chance.

Have you failed God recently and then gone to your own personal exile? Take heart—you are in good company. Abraham, Moses, and Jonah (to name a few) suffered similar setbacks. But they emerged from failure to accomplish great things for God. And you can, too.

Is God calling you back to repentance, back to your family, school, job, or ministry? Will you answer that call—right now?

Insight - Judah’s Final Kings—Brothers in the Business

For more than three centuries, the kingdom of Judah had passed in an orderly fashion from father to son, interrupted only briefly by the reign of Queen Athaliah. But now, in Judah’s final, frantic years, like a top winding down and toppling over, the kingdom passes quickly between three sons and a grandson of Josiah.

A BRAND-NEW You

Facelifts. Exercise clubs. Makeovers. How-to and self-help books. Surrounding us daily are hundreds of ways we can “improve” ourselves. We eagerly take advertisers up on claims that their products are “new and improved” to make us “new and improved.”

God wants us to be our best. He wants us to be continually upgraded, improved...new! But we go wrong when we think we can make such changes independently. God made you first, so only He can make a brand-new you.

How? Through the blood of His Son, the risen Savior, Jesus Christ. Through Him and Him only, each of us can become a new creature (2 Corinthians 5:17), with a new heart and a new spirit (Ezekiel 11:19), and a whole new way of life (Romans 6: 4- 11) by accepting His sacrifice to save us. Here’s how:

• Admit that you are a sinner, justly deserving the penalty of death. (Read Romans 3:23; 6:23; John 8:24.)
• Acknowledge that God loves you and has provided for your salvation through His Son’s death on the cross (John 3:16; Acts 4:10-12).
• Accept Christ’s death on your behalf by trusting Him for your salvation and by claiming Him as the new Master of your life (Acts 16:30-31; Romans 3:24-26).

Talk to God right now in prayer. He will hear your heartfelt words of repentance from sin and of acceptance of Christ. And when you do repent and accept Christ, you are saved and welcomed into God’s family. You become His special child, empowered and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Trust God now to save you. Then, take a look in the mirror at a brand-new you.

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1 Kings

The Book of 1 Kings opens with Israel rising to the pinnacle of power, wealth, and prominence during the administration of its third king, Solomon. The first 11 chapters describe Solomon’s legendary wisdom and architectural achievements. In sad contrast, the last 11 chapters detail the beginning of the end of all Solomon had built. The book closes with the people of the covenant—both north (Israel) and south (Judah)—wandering far from the God of the covenant.

April 1

1 Kings 1–4

Solomon: Third King of Israel

Key Passage: 1 Kings 2:1-4, 3:3-15

Overview

King David’s advanced years and restricted activity create a leadership vacuum that Adonijah seeks to exploit by proclaiming himself king. Though he enjoys support from Joab, the general, and Abiathar, the priest, Adonijah is opposed by Nathan, Zadok, and others from David’s administration. God had previously made it clear (and David had privately acknowledged) that Solomon was His choice to succeed David.

Now, the time has come to make that declaration public and official. Solomon’s anointing as the third king in Israel spells the beginning of the end for Adonijah’s conspiracy. But while Solomon’s position is secure, his need is great for godly wisdom to rule the kingdom—a request that God willingly grants. God also provided the blessings Solomon could have requested but didn’t: riches, victory, and honor.

Your Daily Walk

How would you respond if God appeared to you as He did to Solomon and extended a blank check invitation: “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (3:5)? Be honest! Could you resist the urge to ask for riches, power, or fame? Is there anything in this world more lasting and important than financial success? Do you place wisdom over wealth in your priorities?

Solomon’s response to God’s offer is exemplary. First, he recognizes his need, saying, “I am only a little child” (3:7). Next, he recognizes his responsibility as king. And finally, he recognizes his resource—the wisdom of God. If you need wisdom, you can ask God. Turn to James 1:5 and pray that verse back to Him as the expression of your need for wisdom and as your desire to put His wisdom to work in one of your responsibilities today.

Insight - Following in His Father’s Footsteps

David became known as “the sweet singer of Israel” for his skill in composing many of the psalms in Israel’s hymnbook. But Solomon was not far behind. According to 1 Kings 4:32, he composed more than a thousand songs himself, of which Psalm 127 is an outstanding example.

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April 2

1 Kings 5–8

Solomon’s Temple Built and Dedicated

Key Passage: 1 Kings 6:1-14; 8:12-61

Overview

Today’s reading features the realization of David’s dream to build a house for God, a plan God said would be carried out by David’s son (5:5; 2 Samuel 7:12-13). Solomon enlists the help of his father’s friend Hiram, king of Tyre, to provide the cedar and fir lumber for the temple and royal palace. With keen organizational skills, Solomon sets the conscripted laborers to work and seeks out a master craftsman to do the intricate decorations. Though David’s planning was inspired by the Spirit of God (1 Chronicles 28:11-12), the exact dimensions and details of the temple are not recorded in Scripture. However, the general pattern of the tabernacle and its court is followed. In his address to the people at the dedication of the temple, Solomon offers a majestic prayer to God with the oft-repeated refrain, “Hear from heaven...and forgive” (8:30, 34, 36, 39, 49–50).

Your Daily Walk

English clergyman J. B. Phillips wrote a book titled Your God Is Too Small, in which he accused Christians of cutting the infinite God revealed in Scripture down to puny human dimensions. While giving mental assent to an “in-finite” God, we often live like (and pray like) He is weak, finite, and fickle in keeping His promises. Solomon could hardly be accused of doing that. In speaking to God, Solomon said, “The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you” (8:27). “The Lord is God and...there is no other” (8:60). “Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses” (8:56).

Does your God match the infinite dimensions of the God of the Bible? Make a list of all the evidences of bigness that describe God in chapter 8. In light of this, can any of your problems be too big for Him?

Insight - The Missing Wonder of the Ancient World

The temple of God built by Solomon in Jerusalem is not listed among the seven wonders of the ancient world, most likely because it was destroyed before Antipater drew up his famous list of architectural marvels in about 140 B.C.

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April 3

1 Kings 9-11

Solomon’s Fame, Fortune, and Failure

Key Passage: 1 Kings 9:1-9; 11:1-13

Overview

A fitting epitaph over Solomon’s life might read, “The wise king who acted foolishly.” Solomon’s spreading fame and mushrooming wealth begin to fill his heart with pride. His wholehearted devotion to God is replaced by a growing love for foreign wives (of whom he will eventually take more than a thousand). At first, Solomon only tolerates the presence of pagan deities; later, he accepts them; finally, he worships them, and the one true God is forsaken and forgotten. But while Solomon ignores God, God is still very much interested in Solomon. He reminds the wayward king of His covenant with David and declares that, because of Solomon’s idolatry, the kingdom will be torn apart, leaving only two tribes for his son.

Your Daily Walk

Fellowship with God is a lot like electricity. It is a moment-by-moment phenomenon. And when you are enjoying it, you and others around you will know it!

Fellowship depends on constant contact with the Source of power. If something interrupts the connection, the flow of power ceases because the power is not in the receptor but in the Source. Spiritually, the severing of fellowship might not be immediately obvious, but the vitality soon wanes because the power flow has stopped. That is why Scripture warns, “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12).

Check up on your own personal fellowship with God. Are you giving God a chance to speak to you daily through His Word? Are you regularly responding to Him in prayer? Are you dealing promptly with sin in your life? Are you filling your thought life with meditation upon His actions and attributes? Why not fellowship with your Heavenly Father right now?

Insight - Taking to the Sea

Solomon was the first of Israel’s kings to create a merchant navy, a refinery fleet that brought smelted copper from the colonial mines of the Phoenicians in Sardinia and Spain. Copper was used to make bronze and build Solomon’s temple and other structures.

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April 4

1 Kings 12-16

The Kingdom Divides: Israel and Judah

Key Passage: 1 Kings 12

Overview

Supporting Solomon in how he is accustomed puts a heavy burden of taxation on the nation of Israel. After Solomon’s death, the people demand relief from their crushing taxes. Rehoboam, Solomon’s headstrong son and successor, rejects the wise counsel of his father’s advisors and follows the foolish advice of his younger associates. Rather than lessen the burden, he multiplies it 10 times over. The result is predictable: rebellion, civil war, and a divided kingdom. Only 2 of the 12 tribes remain true to Rehoboam. The rest form a new nation under the leadership of Jeroboam, who sets up his own system of worship in the north and, in the process, sets the pattern for the wicked rule that will characterize all his successors.

Your Daily Walk

“Like father, like son” is a familiar and sometimes painfully accurate adage. Do you want to see how a son will turn out? Carefully study his father's life; more often than not, you’ll have your answer. Similarly, if you are curious to know what a girl will be like in 20 years, look at her mother now.

The influence of parents on their children is hard to overestimate. Children are born mimics and will imitate others around them (especially their parents) almost from birth. The proper exhortation in the lives of children is important, but have you overlooked the importance of a proper example? Hold up a spiritual mirror and examine your life right now. List what you like and don’t like about what you see. Now, ask yourself this penetrating question: “If my children grow up to follow in my footsteps, will I be pleased where those footsteps lead?” If you’re not satisfied with the answer, the time for a mid-course correction is now.

Insight - The Long and Short of It

During the 41-year reign of Asa, the first good king in the southern kingdom of Judah, no fewer than seven different men occupied the throne of Israel in the north. One of them, Zimri, had the dubious distinction of being a king for a total of only seven days.

PLACING THE BOOKS OF

1 Kings - 2 Chronicles

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April 5

1 Kings 17–19

Elijah: God’s Spokesman

Key Passage: 1 Kings 18:20–19:21

Overview

Elijah appears on the center stage of Israel’s history without introduction. Acting as God’s prophetic mouthpiece, he announces to wicked Ahab that Israel will have no more rain except by the prophet’s word. Then Elijah leaves Israel for three years, moving at God’s direction first east to the Kerith Ravine, then north to the city of Zarephath. In every location, God provides for his needs. As the drought intensifies, Elijah returns to challenge Ahab, and the prophets of Baal lose their jobs and lives. But when an enraged Queen Jezebel seeks his life, Elijah retreats to the wilderness, exhausted, discouraged, and full of self-pity. There, God strengthens, restores, and sends him out to minister anew.

Your Daily Walk

Elijah was a fearless man of faith. He stood toe-to-toe with the most powerful man in Israel and boldly announced God’s judgment of drought. Three years later, he delivered God’s challenge to all those who worshiped Baal, called down fire from heaven, and personally “dispatched” the prophets of Baal!

Then suddenly, after the dramatic and exhilarating moment of his greatest achievement for God, Elijah fell victim to the “Lone Ranger” mentality: “I am the only one left” (19:10, 14). Strength gave way to self-pity, doubt replaced determination, and the fearless man of faith faltered. Have you faced a similar temptation in your own life, thinking you are the only servant of God in your neighborhood, office, or school (you may be) and feeling sorry for yourself because of it? Then write out this thought and carry it with you today: “God is never without a witness, and with God, I am never alone.”

Insight - Divine Therapy for Human Depression

It should not be surprising that God, who created humans, knows best how to treat their emotional distress and spiritual anguish. For the distraught Elijah, God prescribed rest, food, exercise, solitude, and a job to do—in that order. That’s a pretty good prescription for tackling depression in our age as well.

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April 6/7

1 Kings 20–22

Ahab’s Final Days as Israel’s King

Key Passage: 1 Kings 21

Overview

Today, you finish reading the Book of 1 Kings. However, the division between the 1st and 2nd Kings is only literary, not historical. Tomorrow, the story will continue as smoothly as if there had been no book division at all (which, in fact, was the case in the original Hebrew). Although God’s mercy and patience are great toward Ahab, the rebellious king of Israel simply refuses to follow God. Yet, Ahab’s disobedience pales in comparison with the wickedness of his wife, Jezebel. In cruel treachery, she engineers the murder of Naboth so that Ahab can seize his vineyard. At last, Ahab reaps what he has sown for so long.

Your Daily Walk

You can outsmart your friends; you can outsmart your family; you can outsmart your enemies; and sometimes, you can even outsmart yourself. But you can never outsmart God.

Consider Ahab. Warned by a prophet of God not to go into battle, Ahab gambled with his life and lost. He concluded that a clever battlefield disguise would make it impossible for anyone to recognize him, even God. The result? “Someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armor” (22:34). Lucky shot—or a divine bull’s-eye?

Trying to outsmart God has never been a wise move. Even the psalmist David learned that, in the game of hide-and-seek, God always comes out the winner (Psalm 139:7-12). But if you find yourself playing the game, the choice is yours: Remove the disguise you’ve been hiding behind and come to God in humble repentance, or wait for God Himself to unmask you. To his sorrow, Ahab selected the second course. Choose now your own path.

Insight - An Unjust Act of Justice (21:1-16)

Naboth’s cruel and unjust murder, masterminded by Queen Jezebel, was nonetheless carried out “justly.” Cursing the king was forbidden (Exodus 22:28), and crimes had to be confirmed by at least two witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15). So even in her wicked deed, Jezebel followed the letter of the Law.

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2 Kings

In 1 Kings, one nation becomes two; in 2 Kings, two nations become none. Nineteen consecutive evil kings consistently lead Israel downhill. Even the miracle-working ministry of Elisha cannot stop the nation’s slide. Meanwhile to the south, the occasional good king in Judah is powerless to reform the evils of his many bad predecessors. The “tale of two nations” ends disastrously: Israel is dispersed by Assyria (chapters 1–17); Judah is marched off to exile in Babylon (chapters 18–25).

April 8

2 Kings 1–3

Reign of Joram

Key Passage: 2 Kings 2

Overview

While 1 Kings centers on the ministry of Elijah, 2 Kings focuses on the ministry of Elisha. After Elijah makes his last prophetic utterance—the prediction of Ahaziah’s death for turning to lifeless idols rather than to the living God—he is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, leaving his understudy Elisha to continue the prophetic work of calling the nation back to God. With the mantle of Elijah on his shoulders and a double portion of Elijah’s spirit to fortify him, Elisha wastes no time beginning his prophetic and miraculous ministry. He predicts that God will fill the valleys of Edom with water, enabling King Joram to defeat the forces of Moab and turn back the enemy threat.

Your Daily Walk

If a miracle is something so difficult that only God can do it, what area of your life most needs a miracle? And how does it compare with these “miracle stories”?

The Lord said to Abraham: “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14). And Abraham fathered Isaac at age 100.

Jeremiah affirmed: “Nothing is too hard for you” (Jeremiah 32:17). And God delivered His people from exile.

The angel told Mary: “For nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). And a virgin gave birth to the Savior.

When Elisha instructed Joram to dig trenches in the valley because God was going to fill them with water in spite of a drought, Elisha assured the king, “This is an easy thing in the eyes of the Lord” (2 Kings 3:18). The next morning, the waters came.

What challenge in your life seems too big for anyone but God? Write your name by one of the stories above as your testimony of confidence in God’s ability to do the impossible.

Insight - Going to School with the Prophets

The “company of the prophets” (2 Kings 2:3, 5, 7, 15; 4:1, 38; 5:22; 6:1) were probably young men studying the Law and the history of Israel in order to teach the people.

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April 9

2 Kings 4–8

Record of Elisha

Key Passage: 2 Kings 4–6

Overview

Elisha, the great miracle worker of God, performs no fewer than nine miracles in the space of today’s section: providing an “oil well” for a destitute widow, giving new life to a dead boy, making poisoned stew harmless, multiplying bread for a hungry crowd, curing a leprous army captain, making an ax head defy the law of gravity, reading the mind of an enemy king, opening the eyes of a servant to see the angels of God, and closing the eyes of the enemy to the same spectacle. In each case, God’s power at work in the individual shows His readiness to do the same in the nation He has called His own.

Your Daily Walk

Myopia, simply defined, is improper focus. Images appear fuzzy or blurred because the eye is incapable of bringing the light to a sharp focus. Physical myopia can be detected and corrected quite easily.

There is a similar visual problem in the spiritual realm. Let’s call it spiritual myopia. The symptoms: clear focus when it comes to identifying problems, obstacles, and difficulties in everyday life, but great difficulty in focusing on the reservoir of power and protection that God has provided to meet those problems head on. Spiritual myopia was the condition of Elisha’s servant when he focused on the problem (6:15) but not the provision (6:17). He saw only a horde of Syrians, while Elisha saw the host of angels.

On an index card, draw a small eye chart (similar to what you would find in an ophthalmologist’s office), using the words of 2 Kings 6:16, and place it on your mirror or near your computer screen. Let it remind you often of the importance of proper spiritual focus in your walk with God.

Insight - How to Fly Off the Handle

In biblical times the iron head of an ax was attached to the handle by leather thongs. Thus, it was common for the head to fly off the handle whenever the thongs broke or slipped. Accidents with axes were so common that a special provision was included in the Law of Moses to handle such cases (Deuteronomy 19:1-6).

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April 10

2 Kings 9–12

Jehu’s Revenge, Joash’s Reform

Key Passage: 2 Kings 9–10

Overview

Anointed king over Israel at Elisha’s direction, Jehu wastes no time carrying out his mission. He heads straight for the city of Jezreel, where Joram is recuperating from his battle wounds. There, he slays the ruling heir of Ahab’s house in the vineyard of Naboth, for which Ahab’s wife had committed murder a generation before. But Jehu is far from finished. In addition, he kills Ahaziah, king of Judah (who was making an untimely visit to Joram), Jezebel (Joram’s wicked mother-in-law), and finally, the entire surviving family of Ahab, thus fulfilling God’s sentence of death. But while Jehu is executing judgment in Israel, a different and potentially more dangerous execution is taking place in Judah. Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, seizes the throne and seeks to remove the rest of the royal line. The sole surviving heir, Joash, becomes Judah’s youngest monarch and one of its greatest reformers.

Your Daily Walk

Whatever else you can say about Jehu (and you can say plenty), his single-minded attention to the task God gave him is exemplary. Jehu was a man with a divine calling and a mission who lost no time in carrying it out. He fulfilled the prophecy of Elijah against the house of Ahab (1 Kings 21:19-24) and completely rid Israel of the heathen worship of Baal for a time. God approved of Jehu’s faithfulness to his calling and rewarded him for it.

How do you tackle the assignment God has set before you? Carelessly? Halfheartedly? Or with the zeal of a Jehu? Whether you are a student, parent, minister, or office worker, you can put your heart into your work—if the God of Jehu is in your heart.

Insight - Judgment Can Be Murder

Jehu was anointed as God’s instrument for the task of exterminating the house of Ahab and, along with it, the worship of Baal. Baalism was so viciously cruel that only a person of Jehu’s relentlessness could have done the job. By the end, Jehu had indeed wiped out the entire house of Ahab and had thoroughly purged the nation of Baal worshipers.

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April 11

2 Kings 13–17

Ruin of Israel

Key Passage: 2 Kings 13, 17

Overview

On his deathbed, Elisha offers King Joash of Israel the opportunity to rout his Syrian enemy utterly. However, the king’s lack of faith results in something far short of complete victory and presents a picture of the problem that has plagued Israel’s kings for centuries. The alliance between Israel and Judah, secured under Jehoshaphat, now gives way to constant warfare. Anarchy and apostasy rip the land of Israel as first one king, and then another is assassinated. When Israel and Syria form an alliance against Judah, Ahaz (king of Judah) buys the help of Assyria. But the downward spiral continues, and soon, the 10 tribes in the north are deported to the remotest corners of the Assyrian empire while other conquered peoples are imported to fill the vacuum.

Your Daily Walk

Historians and political scientists have developed elaborate explanations for the conquest of Israel, and later of Judah. “These were small countries,” they say, “in the buffer zone between large, powerful neighbors to the south (Egypt) and north (Assyria and Babylon).” But the Bible states that the conquest and exile were God’s judgment because of the sin of His people. Israel had turned her back on the Lord, turned to idols, and ignored the repeated message of God’s prophets to “shape up or ship out.” They had no one to blame but themselves.

That biblical principle remains in force today for nations, individuals, Christians, and unbelievers. God will deal with an individual, with a family, or with a nation according to the unchanging principle that “a man reaps what he sows” (Galatians 6:7). When was the last time you “sowed” a word for God utilizing a brief phone call or email to one of your elected officials? If an issue is crucial, we can’t afford to remain silent.

Insight - It’s a Long Way to Captivity

In the Assyrian dispersion, many Israelites were resettled in northern Mesopotamia (more than 400 miles away) and others in the area of the Medes (a full 1,000 miles from Samaria).

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April 12

2 Kings 18–21

Reforms of Hezekiah

Key Passage: 2 Kings 18, 20

Overview

With the captivity and deportation of Israel, the curtain drops on the northern 10 tribes. But what of their countrymen in the south? Will they learn from Israel’s calamity and turn back to God? At this crucial juncture, God raises up Hezekiah, who does “what was right in the eyes of the Lord, just as his father David had done” (18:3). Spiritually, Hezekiah institutes sweeping reforms to bring the nation back to a wholehearted worship of God. Politically, he refuses to pay tribute any longer to Assyria, choosing instead to trust God for protection from reprisal. In answer to his prayer, God decimates the Assyrian army, breaking the back of that once mighty nation. However, by the time of his death, Hezekiah’s pride and family negligence ensure that Judah’s days are numbered.

Your Daily Walk

If you’re looking for help in your prayer life, study an Old Testament character whose every recorded prayer was answered.

Hezekiah was a man of faith (18:5) and a man of prayer. His first reaction when confronted with a problem was to bring it before the Lord. Whether the problem was 185,000 uninvited Assyrians (19:35) or a painful illness (20:7), Hezekiah took it to God in prayer. And when he prayed, things happened.

Prayer is not a magic formula but verbal communication with the sovereign God of creation. Examine your own prayer habits. Are they built on a personal relationship with God? Are you strengthening your prayer life with daily exercise? Are you more comfortable talking to God today than you were a year ago? Try this: Every time you get into or out of your car today, pray for a few seconds. You’ll find it habit-forming.

Insight - Smashing an Ancient Artifact

Hezekiah’s zealous reform included even the destruction of the bronze serpent that Moses had made in the wilderness (Numbers 21:8-9), to which the people were burning incense.

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April 13/14

2 Kings 22–25

Ruin of Judah

Key Passage: 2 Kings 22–23

Overview

Those who do not learn from history are destined to repeat it, and Judah is no exception. Though Israel has been swept away in judgment, the southern kingdom continues its pagan “business as usual.” Good King Josiah desperately attempts to turn the nation back to God. He locates the long-lost Book of the Law and institutes sweeping reforms. However, though he can impose a change of actions on the people, only wholehearted repentance can change the attitudes of godlessness and self-indulgence that are the root of the problem. As a result, when Josiah dies, his successors revert to their pagan patterns and practices. At last, God brings down the curtain on the southern kingdom as Babylonian soldiers topple the walls, homes, and temple of once-mighty Jerusalem.

Your Daily Walk

What is the most important book in the world to you? Assuming your answer is “the Bible”...

THINK: How many days this month have you spent time in the Bible? Assuming your answer is “at least one”...

THINK: How did you respond to the truth you encountered there? Assuming your answer is an honest one...

THINK: Are you satisfied with your response to that truth? Assuming your answer is less than a resounding “yes”...

REREAD 2 Kings 23:2-3. The power of God’s Word to change lives is perhaps nowhere more evident than in those two verses. The Word pierces where no manmade sword can reach: to the very heart of the king, priests, prophets, and people, turning their hearts collectively back to God. The result: a national spiritual awakening.

God’s Word convicts, but only you can commit yourself to doing God’s will. Is there an area of your life where a response is overdue?

Insight - The Short and Long and Short and Long of It

The length of time each of the last four kings in Judah reigned is easy to remember once you see the pattern. The sequence is 3 months—11 years—3 months—11 years.

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1 Chronicles

Recalling the period of Jewish history from 2 Samuel through 2 Kings, the priestly writer of Chronicles focuses on the exciting life and righteous reign of King David (1 Chronicles) and the fortunes of the southern kingdom of Judah (2 Chronicles). The first book falls into two parts: Chapters 1–9 trace David’s royal family tree all the way back to Adam; chapters 10–29 detail David’s successful administration as Israel’s second king, showing the importance of proper worship for God’s covenant people.

April 15

1 Chronicles 1–9

David’s Family Tree

Key Passage: 1 Chronicles 1

Overview

Chronicles is more than just a repetition of the books of 2 Samuel through 2 Kings. Though it covers the same period of history, Chronicles approaches the task from an entirely different perspective. It focuses on religious (not political) history, giving special attention to events surrounding the temple (not the palace) and the southern kingdom of Judah (the continuing royal line of David). Down through the centuries, God has provided a witness for Himself and protected the people who were the ancestors of the coming Messiah of Israel—a fact clearly seen in the table of genealogies.

Your Daily Walk

Before you write off today’s section as a lost cause in your pursuit of excitement in daily Bible reading, look beyond the monotonous repetition of “begat” and “the sons of” to see the personalities and events involved. For example:

• How many of the names do you recognize?
• For how many of the characters can you recall at least one fact or story from the Old Testament?
• Who would you say are the five most important people mentioned in these lists? Why did you select those five?
• How many reasons can you think of that God might want to include these chapters in His Word?

The opening chapters of 1 Chronicles give the historical roots of God’s people and the spiritual roots. Can you trace yours? Who are the important people in your spiritual heritage? Which of them are still alive today? Is there a tangible way to thank you for their role in your spiritual development? You might want to begin a page of spiritual roots in the back of your Bible and add to it as your research continues.

Insight - Curious Omissions in a Copious List

Chapters 1–9 may seem like an exhaustive genealogy, but they are not. A careful study reveals several significant omissions, including the family of Eli and the tribes of Zebulun and Dan.

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April 16

1 Chronicles 10–16

David’s Throne Established

Key Passage: 1 Chronicles 11, 13, 15

Overview

Think of 1 Chronicles as a sort of “divine commentary” on the Book of 2 Samuel, a second volume covering the action-packed life of King David. With the passing of Saul, the new shepherd-king assumes the throne and promptly establishes his new capital at Jerusalem, the place around which virtually the entire history of the nation will revolve. Along with his new capital, David selects a corps of mighty men to support him during his reign. David next attempts to return the ark of God to its proper place—a task that proves more difficult than anticipated. But when the ark safely resides in Jerusalem at last, David leads the nation in a celebration of praise.

Your Daily Walk

No man is an island...and very few are peninsulas! It is difficult and often dangerous to attempt to stand alone without the support of others who share your convictions and commitments.

Today’s reading devotes 78 verses to naming David’s mighty men: his trusted friends, confidants, bodyguards, and counselors—in short, the backbone of his kingly court. Without them, David might never have risen to the greatness that he would ultimately achieve. Even though his role as king was unique in the nation, God never intended David to be a solo performer in the palace.

Perhaps you will never rise to the place of power and prominence of King David. But everyone can be a mighty man or woman in another person's life. Think about those who exercise leadership over you, such as your pastor or boss. First Chronicles 11:10 says David’s mighty men supported him in his kingdom. Can that be said of you in your support of your pastor? Your boss? What are one or two ways you can do something “mighty” for them this week?

Insight - A Thoroughly Anointed King

David’s anointing as king over all Israel (11:3) was, in fact, his third anointing. The first was done privately by Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13), the second publicly as king over Judah (2 Samuel 2:4).

March 16/17

1 Samuel 4–8

Samuel’s Rebuilding of the Nation

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 4, 6, 8

Overview

In fulfillment of Samuel’s prophetic word, judgment falls upon the family of Eli. Hophni and Phinehas die at the hands of the Philistines, along with 34,000 of their countrymen. Worse yet, the ark of God falls into enemy hands. Struck by the twin blows of national and family catastrophe, Eli falls over and dies a broken man. Upon the shoulders of young Samuel is placed the responsibility of rebuilding the shattered nation spiritually and politically. The Philistines return the ark (with a little divine encouragement), and the Israelites return to worship the one true God. However, as Samuel grows older and his sons pervert their priestly office, the elders request a king to rule over them like all the other nations.

Your Daily Walk

Be careful how you pray. God may give you what you ask for! Israel requested a king—a seemingly harmless request. After all, wouldn’t a monarch be preferable to the corrupt priests who were making a sham of national worship? But God knew the people’s motives were wrong (the desire to be like all the other nations), and the consequences would be devastating. Their sons and daughters would be inducted into the king’s service, their lands confiscated, and their possessions taxed and seized. In effect, they would become slaves to the king. Yet they insisted: “Give us a king!”

Examine your prayer life. Is it characterized by demands or requests? “God, heal me...bring my husband back...make me successful...give me what I ask for.” Check your motives. Are you making requests with your comfort and convenience in mind or His glory? And have you considered what might happen if God did answer your prayer? Could it be that God has something better in store for you than the answer you would supply to your prayer? Talk to Him about it right now.

Insight - The First Circuit-Riding Preacher

In his role as judge, Samuel made a yearly circuit from his home in Ramah to Bethel, Gilgal, Mizpeh, and back—a journey of 210 miles.

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March 18

1 Samuel 9–12

Saul, First King of Israel

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 10, 12

Overview

In response to the Israelites’ persistent request for a king, God grants their wish. Saul, a handsome man from the tribe of Benjamin, searches for a lost donkey but instead finds Samuel, who anoints him king over Israel. Saul promptly leads the nation in battle against the Ammonites, wins a decisive victory, and humbly refuses to punish those who would not acknowledge him as king. Although Saul honors God early in his reign, Samuel warns the people of the danger of not allowing God to be King of their hearts: “If you persist in doing evil, both you and your king will be swept away” (12:25).

Your Daily Walk

A rambunctious little boy was told by his mother to sit quietly in a chair. He grudgingly obliged, but after taking his seat, he announced, “I may be sitting still on the outside, but on the inside, I’m still running around!” His mother’s authority was enough to control her son’s body, but not his heart.

Such was the case with Israel. Like a little child, the nation was admonished by Samuel to continue in the ways of God, even though the people now had a human king of their own. Outwardly, they agreed to serve and obey God. But despite external compliance, their hearts remained unchanged.

God wants people with bodies (actions) and hearts (attitudes) that are pleasing to Him. Take a sheet of paper and divide it into two columns. Over the left column, write: “Things I do for God.” Over the right: “Why I do what I do for God.” Now, begin to fill in the columns. And if you find you’re doing some of the right things for the wrong reasons, ask God for a “heart transplant” today. That’s His specialty (Jeremiah 17:9-10).

Insight - God Doesn’t Act Out of Character

God’s promise that “for the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people,” (12:22) meant that to abandon Israel would have been a violation of His covenant and a contradiction of His character. God is always true to His Word and His name.

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March 19

1 Samuel 13–15

Saul, Disobedient and Rejected

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 13:1-14; 15:1-23

Overview

Saul’s promising beginning as king over Israel is all too brief. In today’s reading, he reveals attitudes and actions that ultimately lead to his rejection by God. Presumption, rationalization, pride, stubbornness, and outright disobedience mark the latter years of his reign until finally Samuel delivers a make-or-break assignment: “Completely destroy the Amalekites.” Electing to do only part of God’s will, Saul saves the best of the livestock to “sacrifice to the Lord” (15:15) and spares Agag, the Amalekite king. When confronted with his disobedience, Saul passes the blame to the people, causing Samuel to deliver the verdict: “Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king” (1 Samuel 15:23).

Your Daily Walk

The tragedy of Saul’s life is the sharp contrast between what could have been and what actually happened.

Twice the Bible says that “the Spirit of God came upon [Saul]” (10:10; 11:6). After Saul’s anointing by Samuel, “God changed Saul’s heart” (10:9). After his rejection as king, “the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul” (16:14). These verses would indicate that Saul was a true child of God who was self-willed, proud, and rebellious against God (15:17, 22-23). He represents the Christian who has been equipped by God for a task, but whose willful sin disqualifies him from further service (1 Corinthians 9:27).

You cannot hope to lead others effectively until you first are willing to be led by God. Is pride, stubbornness, or rebellion clouding your relationship with God today? Ask God where you need to change in order for you to be the instrument of godly leadership that He desires you to be. Then, write your name and today’s date in the margin of your Bible next to 1 Samuel 15:22.

Insight - Saul in the Old, Saul in the New

Both Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:11) and Saul of Gibeah (1 Samuel 10:26) were from the tribe of Benjamin. But what a contrast! Saul (later called Paul) was a physically weak “giant” of the faith; King Saul was a tall, imposing giant of a man who ended his life by suicide.

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March 20

1 Samuel 16–19

David in the Court of Saul

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 16:1–18:4

Overview

Samuel, still grieving over Saul’s sin, is instructed by God to anoint a new king—an unlikely young candidate from the family of Jesse. David’s obscurity is short-lived, however. After he is enlisted by Saul to play the harp in the king’s court, David meets and defeats the Philistine giant, Goliath. But the more David seeks to serve the king, the more his reputation enrages Saul, leaving his very life in jeopardy. Not even David’s close friendship with Saul’s son Jonathan can bring him immunity from Saul’s attacks.

Your Daily Walk

How many close friends do you have? Not simply acquaintances or fellow workers or neighbors, but the kind of friend “who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24), and with whom you can share joy and heartache?

David found that having a true friend can be more than valuable—it can be lifesaving. When Saul conspired to kill Israel’s future king, Jonathan put his life on the line by informing David of his father’s murderous intent. Ignoring his own welfare, Jonathan put God’s program first.

What kind of friend are you? Do you establish relationships with other people for what you can gain from them, or for what you can give to them? If you’re having trouble developing close friendships, spend some extra minutes today reading John 15:13-15. There you’ll find some characteristics of a growing friendship: sacrifice (v. 13) and communication (v. 15).

Pick someone who is only an acquaintance to you now and begin a “Project Jonathan” in that person’s life today. Use the above principles to help you map out a friendship-building activity or two for the week.

Insight - A Working Definition of a Friend

A friend is someone who knows you fully and still accepts you unconditionally. Your true best friend is one who is honest and tells you the “truth in love.” The wise words of Solomon remind us: “Wounds from a friend can be trusted” (Proverbs 27:6). Do you have a friend like that? Are you willing to be one?

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March 21

1 Samuel 20–23

David’s Escape From Saul

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 20

Overview

Jonathan promises to help David by discovering whether Saul’s anger is simply a passing mood or a firm resolve. Jonathan finds the latter true, but in the process, he incurs his father’s wrath. If David is to live to take the throne, there can be only one course of action: He must flee for his life. David’s escape path takes him first to Nob, where he secures food and weapons for his journey. From there, he flees to Gath and then to the cave of Adullam, where a band of relatives and outcasts joins him. Driven to the Desert of Ziph by Saul’s advancing search party, David finds his life in constant jeopardy.

Your Daily Walk

Can you rejoice when others are preferred over you? Can you remain a loyal and sincere friend when someone else gets the promotion that, by rights, should have been yours? Are you willing to be content with God’s place for you when it is less than your ambition desires or even less than should rightfully be yours?

If you have trouble answering with a hearty “yes!” then consider Jonathan's remarkable character. Humanly speaking, he was heir apparent to the throne of Israel, set to succeed his father, Saul. Humanly speaking, he had every reason to hate David and to join his father in seeking David’s death. Instead, he loved David, befriended him, protected him, and accepted God’s will for him, even though it meant taking a back seat to his own personal ambitions.

“Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). Are you content with your possessions, status, and situation today? Read Philippians 4:11-13 aloud several times until God gives you the strength to make it the sincere prayer of your heart.

Insight - Jonathan—An Unsung Hero

Perhaps the truest test of a man’s greatness is his willingness to submit to God’s plans. As heir to the throne, Jonathan was a war hero (chapter 14) with a kingly character. Yet he loved David as himself (18:1), sided with him against his own father, and bowed humbly to God’s choice of David as king.

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March 22

1 Samuel 24–26

David’s Encounters with Saul

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 24, 26

Overview

After a brief delay in dealing with the Philistine problem, Saul returns to pursue David. His renewed zeal nearly pays off as (unknowingly) he traps David and his men in a cave. Then, miraculously, the tables are turned as David stands poised over the sleeping form of Saul with the power of life and death in his hand. Though vengeance is within his reach, David refuses to lift his hand against the Lord’s anointed king. Again, in chapter 26, the scene is repeated, this time in the Desert of Ziph. Once again, David must make a choice. Once again, the source of David’s anxiety is only a sword’s thrust away. And once again, David resists the temptation to play the role of God by snuffing out Saul’s life.

Your Daily Walk

If circumstances alone formed the basis for determining the will of God, then Saul’s life would have ended in chapter 24 and Nabal’s in chapter 25. If counsel alone revealed God’s will in a particular situation, Abishai would have convinced David to rid himself of Saul once and for all in chapter 26.

Opportunity alone does not constitute the will of God. The counsel of others taken by itself is insufficient to determine God’s will. These things must be balanced with what we know of the character and commands of God as revealed in His Word. David knew that God had said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay” (Deuteronomy 32:35; see Romans 12:19).

Have others wronged you and then placed themselves in a vulnerable position where it would be easy for you to get even? Try this instead. Look for a way to repay evil with good (Romans 12:21) and leave the settling of accounts with God by an act of the will. He will set things right in ways you never dreamed.

Insight - En-gedi (24:1-2)

En-gedi, from the Hebrew meaning “spring of the wild goat,” was a desert oasis that served as a refuge for David in his flight from Saul. Located halfway down the western coast of the Dead Sea, En-gedi is a nature preserve and tourist attraction today.

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March 23/24

1 Samuel 27–31

Saul’s Final Downfall and Death

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 27, 29, 31

Overview

The Book of 1 Samuel closes with a climactic series of events leading to the death of Saul and his sons, and clearing the way for David’s ascent to the throne. Disheartened and no doubt weary, David defects to the Philistines for his own protection and settles in Gath—the very city from which Goliath came. He finds himself using deception to avoid siding with the Philistines in the growing hostilities against Israel. Saul, unable to find direction from God, consults a spiritist through whom God sovereignly delivers a chilling prediction of judgment and death.

Your Daily Walk

In modern English, the word tragedy is used to describe any adversity, no matter its cause. But more specifically, a tragedy is “a calamity that results from a wrong decision based upon a flawed character.” Using this definition, Saul’s life was a true tragedy. It held so much promise of success both for him and the nation, yet it ended in defeat and disgrace—all because of pride and self-will.

Becoming a Christian doesn’t mark the end of your battle with sin and temptation; in many ways, it marks the beginning. As a Christian, you still have a sinful nature that seeks to express itself in your daily actions. You also have a personal will that desires to direct your life. And both need to be under the control of Jesus Christ.

From a hymnal or the Internet, use the familiar words of Frances Havergal’s hymn “Take My Life, and Let It Be” to renew your commitment to the lordship of Christ—from head to toe.

Take my life, and let it be / Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my hands, and let them move / At the impulse of Thy love.

Insight - A Dubious Distinction

Saul, the first king of Israel, ended his life by becoming the second recorded suicide in the Bible (31:4). Can you recall the first? (Hint: You read his life story earlier this month. His name also begins with the letter S, and he “brought down the house.”)

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2 Samuel

The life story of King David—whom God called “a man after my own heart” (Acts 13:22)—unfolds in 2 Samuel. Following the death of Saul, David rules first over Judah, then over a united Israel. The greatest of Israel’s kings, David’s political and military victories bring Israel to a place of world prominence. But the secret sins of his personal life ultimately bring his downfall. A lustful look at beautiful Bathsheba leads to adultery and murder—then ultimately to insurrection, civil war, and unrest.

March 25

2 Samuel 1–4

David’s Reign over a Divided Kingdom

Key Passage:2 Samuel 1:1–2:7

Overview

The Book of 2 Samuel opens where 1 Samuel closed—with the deaths of Saul and Jonathan. David’s lament over the loss of his closest personal friend and of God’s anointed leader is captured in a moving song with the repeated refrain, “How the mighty have fallen!” (1:19, 25, 27). The Lord assures that the time for his ascension to the throne has come at last, David is installed as king over Judah. But his acceptance as Israel’s new national leader will be slow and painful. Ish-bosheth, Saul’s surviving son, usurps the power in the north, resulting in a civil war between Israel (led by Abner) and Judah (led by Joab). Intrigue, assassination, and defection result in the deaths of Asahel, Abner, and finally Ish-bosheth. With the opposition to David’s rule removed, the way is cleared for David to reign over a united kingdom at last—more than seven years after Saul’s death.

Your Daily Walk

Have you learned to separate personality from authority? God’s commands are often based on a line of authority. Within the chain of command, He has instructed children to obey their parents, young people to respect their elders, and citizens to submit to the ruling authorities—whether or not they like the personality of the one in authority over them. In the same way, David honored Saul as God’s anointed king throughout his life. Refusing to carry a personal vendetta or to retaliate against Saul’s family, David sincerely mourned Saul’s passing. He showed kindness to Saul’s house, though Saul was no doubt his “favorite person.”

Whether or not you agree with the personality and philosophy of your civic leaders, you have a spiritual responsibility to submit to them, honor them, and—above all—pray for them (1 Timothy 2:1-3). Have you done that yet today? It will help them—and you.

Insight - Family Feud, Old Testament Style

In 3:1-5, six of David’s sons are mentioned by name, each born by a different wife. David’s moral laxity, so evident in these verses, would ultimately contribute to his downfall.

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March 26

2 Samuel 5–7

David’s Reign over a United Kingdom

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 5:1-5; 7:1-29

Overview

The internal strife has finally ended, and David is firmly established as king over a united kingdom. Now, in his first official act as monarch, he relocates the nation's capital from Hebron to Jerusalem. In addition to Jerusalem becoming the political center of Israel, David now makes it the religious center by transporting the ark from Gibeah. At last, David is ready to see the fulfillment of a lifelong dream: constructing a house for God. But through the prophet Nathan, God redirects those plans. Because David has been a man of war, it must be left to his son Solomon (whose name comes from the word for “peace”) to build God’s temple. But while David will not be permitted to build a house for God, God will build a house for David: a throne, a family, and a kingdom that will stand forever.

Your Daily Walk

How do you respond to the death of a dream? What is your reaction when a financial reversal, a physical injury, or an unexpected change of plans shatters your most cherished ambition?

After God curtailed David’s plans to build a permanent house for the ark, David responded with gratitude (not grumbling) and praise (not pouting). He thanked God for all the good things He had done in the nation's history. He reaffirmed God’s sovereign right to veto David’s plans: “Now, Lord God, keep forever the promise you have made concerning your servant and his house. Do as you promised” (7:25). Personal ambition yielded to sovereign direction.

Have you committed your dreams and ambitions to God? He may want to approve and confirm them, or He may want to change and refashion them into something you’ve never dreamed. That’s His right as Creator. So give Him that right—right now!

Insight - Learning a Life-and-Death Lesson (6:3-7)

For 50 years, the ark had been considered little more than a piece of furniture. God’s stern judgment upon Uzzah for touching it marked the beginning of a new era in which the people recognized again the sanctity of God’s presence.

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March 27

2 Samuel 8–10

David’s Reign over an Expanding Nation

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 9

Overview

Once David has consolidated his nation politically and religiously, he turns to the task of being God’s man of war. By subduing the neighboring nations, David extends the borders of Israel: Philistia to the southwest; Amalek to the south; Edom, Moab, and Ammon to the east; Syria to the northeast; Zobah to the north—each succumbs to David’s withering assault. But though he is a man of war, David maintains a tender heart. He seeks out and befriends the sole surviving heir of Saul’s dynasty, a lame grandson named Mephibosheth, by making him part of the king’s family.

Your Daily Walk

Insurance companies today have a name for those who apply for insurance while suffering from heart disease or who have a family history of premature death. Such individuals are “bad risks.”

When a new king came to the throne in the ancient Near East, you might say the remaining family members of the preceding dynasty were bad risks. According to the day's custom, they had two chances for survival: slim and none. The usual practice was for the new king to pursue and slaughter any possible claimants to the throne. That’s why David’s gesture of mercy and clemency to Mephibosheth was so amazing.

God’s grace to us, which is illustrated by this story, is even greater. “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). If you have not received God’s grace, do so right now (see Ephesians 2:8-9). If you have, thank God anew for it. Then look for a Mephibosheth in your life who needs to learn about God’s love and forgiveness.

Insight - Just Call Me “Mephibosheth”

A helpless cripple, heir of King Saul, and a self-proclaimed “dead dog,” Mephibosheth was nonetheless welcomed with open arms into David’s own royal family. What a beautiful illustration of God’s grace to us—crippled as sinners, yet lifted from our shame and given an inheritance by the King Himself.

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March 28

2 Samuel 11–14

David’s Sin and God’s Judgment

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 11–12

Overview

The course of a person’s life can pivot on one small event. Such is the case with David. Idling around the palace when he should have been leading his troops on the battlefield, David sets himself up for disaster. A chance look leads to lust, which gives birth to sin, which in turn results in death. But even in his darkest moment, the “man after [God’s] own heart” (Acts 13:22) shows his true character. When Nathan, the prophet, confronted David with his sin, David responds in wholehearted repentance. Though he experiences God’s forgiveness, the seeds of sin have been planted. All too soon, David will reap the harvest of that sin.

Your Daily Walk

The crash of the giant redwood could be heard for miles. But the question on everyone’s mind lingered long after the sound had died away. There was no chainsaw, no forest fire, and no dynamite. How had such a mammoth tree come toppling down?

Silently, secretly, thousands of tiny beetles ate away at the very heart of the tree. The signs of decay went unnoticed until the crash occurred, and then it was too late.

David’s sin with Bathsheba was no sudden collapse of his moral values but rather the outgrowth of an undisciplined life given to passion, polygamy, and idle pleasure. When the temptation came, David had no willpower to resist. He saw; he inquired; he yielded. And the crash could be heard for generations to come in the form of treachery, immorality, jealousy, and murder.

Where are subtle sins eating away at your spiritual vitality? If disaster in the Christian life results more often from a slow leak than a blowout, take time today to examine your life for any “slow leaks.” You can’t afford to ignore them.

Insight - Solomon, the Peace Child (12:24)

As part of the judgment upon David’s sin, the child born of adultery died in infancy. But later, God gave to David and Bathsheba another son, whom they appropriately named Solomon—“peace.” Despite his past failures, David was now at peace with his God.

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March 29

2 Samuel 15–18

Absalom’s Attempt to Overthrow David

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 15, 18

Overview

Incest, murder, intrigue, rebellion—the story of David’s family from chapter 12 reads like a horror story. But the worst is yet to come. Absalom, David’s favorite (and most undisciplined) son, seizes the opportunity to usurp his father’s throne. After sowing discontent among the people, Absalom makes a dramatic and unsuspected invasion of Jerusalem, forcing David to flee for his life. In his flight, David is deceived by Ziba, maligned by Shimei, and befriended by Barzillai. But he owes his life largely to Hushai, who remains behind in Jerusalem and counsels Absalom to mount a careful (and delayed) attack rather than to pursue it immediately. When the battle is joined in the forest of Ephraim, Absalom’s dreams of power come to a “hair-raising” conclusion.

Your Daily Walk

What do Monday morning quarterbacks and many politicians’ speeches have in common? They are always right because they are always based on 20/20 hindsight.

Absalom would have made a good Monday morning quarterback. Certainly, he was an outstanding politician, for he won the hearts of the people by second-guessing the decisions of the king and promising the people what they wanted, though he had no authority to grant it.

When a bad decision has been made, do not hesitate to give open, honest criticism to the person who’s responsible. Wrong decisions cannot be ignored. But watch the human tendency to become an armchair general.

All statements beginning with “If I had been there...” are dangerous. Pick a church or civic leader and focus your efforts this week on positive support rather than negative second-guessing.

Insight - Hair Today, a “Goner” Tomorrow

Absalom’s luxuriant head of hair was the crowning glory of a vain egomaniac. How ironic that it became the instrument of his death, suspending him from the low-hanging branches of a tree.

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March 30

2 Samuel 19–20

David’s Restoration to the Throne

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 19

Overview

David’s unceasing grief for Absalom (at the expense of those who risked their lives for the king) prompts an abrupt but effective confrontation with General Joab. A king’s personal feelings must give way to the good of the nation. So, accompanied by his faithful followers, David begins his triumphal return to Jerusalem. His reestablishment as king in Israel marks the return of discontent to the nation. Jealousy between the tribes, an attempted coup by Sheba, and murder in the palace guard— the violence is a continual reminder that “uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.”

Your Daily Walk

Review the chapters you have read in 2 Samuel, and list your impressions of Joab, David’s general.

Every leader needs a man like Joab. For all his bad points (and there were plenty—he was brutal, bloodthirsty, vengeful), Joab had a commendable side. His devotion to David and to the nation was exemplary. He was a man who saw what had to be done and did it, regardless of how unpopular the action was or how unwanted the rebuke was. Though David often questioned Joab’s actions, he never questioned Joab’s motives—and rightly so.

Do you have the fortitude to do the unpopular thing when it is right and needs to be done? Do you have the courage to speak up when a voice needs to be heard? No one enjoys such roles, but they are vital to godly exhortation. Select an admirable trait from Joab’s life (such as commitment, fortitude, and selflessness) and use it as a pattern for your activities today. God will give you the strength and wisdom to be a Joab when the job calls for one.

Insight - David’s Shrouded Grief

After learning of Absalom’s death, David “covered his face” (19:4), the customary way of expressing grief. The covered head symbolizes the agony that shut David off from the world and also pictured the shroud of Absalom’s burial.

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March 31

2 Samuel 21–24

David’s Final Words and Works

Key Passage: 2 Samuel 23–24

Overview

Years of ruling the nation (and getting into and out of trouble) have taken their toll on David, leaving him faint in battle and feeble in old age. However, although David can no longer pursue the enemy, problems continue to pursue him to the end of his reign. A broken treaty with the Gibeonites resulted in three years of famine; a sinful census leads to the deaths of 70,000 Israelites. But in each case, David repents of his sinful ways and assumes the familiar posture of a worshiper of God—the hallmark of his life. To the end of his days, David remains a man who is after God’s own heart.

Your Daily Walk

When called upon to support the work of God with your money, do you “give till it hurts” or “hurt when you give”?

David provides a valuable model in the matter of giving. When God plagued the Israelites because of David’s proud census, the prophet Gad told David to set up an altar on Araunah’s threshing floor. It would have been an easy matter for David to confiscate Araunah’s property or at least to accept Araunah’s offer of free animals and wood for the sacrifice. But David refused, knowing that such an offering would not please God. “I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing” (24:24).

Examine your own offerings to the Lord your God. Do you tend to give superficially or sacrificially? Are your gifts the overflow of a grateful heart? As you look forward to your next paycheck, think about increasing the amount you give to your church or a Christian organization you support. And remember, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Insight - A Mighty Man in a Curious Place

One curious inclusion in David’s list of 37 mighty warriors (23:8-39): Uriah the Hittite! Though David masterminded his death, he never forgot Uriah’s exemplary conduct.

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Joshua

In the book that bears his name, Joshua succeeds Moses as commander-in-chief of Israel and leads the people across the Jordan into the promised land, marking their beginning as a settled nation. The first half of the book (chapters 1–12) recounts three military campaigns spanning seven years, in which Joshua meets and defeats more than 30 enemy armies. The second half (chapters 13–24) relates the settlement of Canaan, the fulfillment of God’s age-old promise to Abraham.

March 1

Joshua 1–5

Preparing for War

Key Passage: Joshua 1:1-8; 3

Overview
Moses has died, and Joshua is appointed by God to take the reins of leadership. The people are poised within view of the land promised to their ancestors and denied to their unbelieving parents. The time has come to cross over, conquer, and possess. But will they succeed where their fathers failed? The task seems impossible: a swollen, turbulent river to ford; foreign terrain to cross; mighty, walled cities to conquer. So, God begins to prepare His people for the days of warfare just ahead. He reminds Joshua that careful attention to His Word brings blessing and success. Spies are sent to survey Jericho, the first obstacle in the land. The priests, bearing the ark of the covenant, lead the people across the rampaging Jordan without even getting their sandals wet! The stage is set for conquest.

Your Daily Walk

God specializes in dry sandals. He loves to start with an impossible situation in your life—then do the impossible.

When the nation of Israel approached the Jordan River, God demanded a step of obedience before they could cross. The priests, like drum majors leading a marching band numbering in the million-plus range, had to hike to the brink of the flood-swollen Jordan and take that first step into the water. Then—and only then—would God perform a miracle, roll back the waters, dry up the puddles, and send the people across, kicking up dust at every step. Dry sandals followed trusting obedience.

Where is God waiting for you to take that first step of faith? Think about the obstacle you are facing (your Jordan) and the step of obedience God is asking you to take (your dry-sandals experience). Trust Him for the unexpected, and let Him surprise and delight you by doing the unexplainable.

Insight - A Mighty Little River

The Jordan, a winding, muddy river more than 200 miles long (and only waist-deep in some places), carries biblical significance much greater than its size. It is mentioned more than 50 times in Joshua and more than 160 times in the Old Testament.

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March 2/3

Joshua 6–8

Beginning the Conquest

Key Passage: Joshua 6:1-7, 13; 8:1, 25

Overview

Joshua employs a textbook strategy for military victory: “Divide and conquer!” He first attacks the country's middle, dividing the enemy forces in half, before mopping up resistance among the isolated troops in the south and north. His stunning victory at Jericho shows the importance of following God’s directions down to the smallest detail, no matter how trivial they may seem. The lesson is painfully reinforced at Ai, where disobedience leads to defeat and death. But after disciplining His overconfident people, God patiently encourages them and leads them to victory in the rematch with Ai.

Your Daily Walk

The true test of an obedient child comes not when the parent’s orders make good sense (“Don’t touch the stove or you’ll burn yourself”) but when there seems to be no good reason for the command (“Be home by 11:00,” or “Eat your spinach”). A parent’s wishes may be changeable or based on a whim, but God’s will is never that way (Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17).

God’s command to Israel at Jericho to destroy what was not consecrated to Him contradicted “good human judgment.” It seemed wasteful to the people and unnecessarily cruel. Joshua did the “sensible” and “prudent” (but disobedient) thing by sending only a small army against Ai. And the result was a rout for Israel and the needless death of 36 soldiers.

Pick a command from God’s Word that you have been tempted to label impractical, unnecessary, or irrelevant (you might try Ephesians 5:22, 25; 6:1, 5). Write it down, along with these words: “Where I understand the will of God, I will do it; where I do not understand the will of God, I will trust Him...and do it anyway!”

Insight - The High Cost of Covetousness

The gold and silver pieces Achan took (7:21) were worth only a few thousand dollars. In exchange, they cost the lives of 36 soldiers, a humiliating defeat for the nation of Israel, and death by stoning for Achan and his entire family.

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March 4

Joshua 9–12

Completing the Conquest

Key Passage: Joshua 9, 12

Overview

In many ways, Joshua’s military is dictated more by the actions of his enemies than by his own plans. First, the king of Jerusalem forms an alliance of kings in the south and attacks Gibeon (the nation which had tricked Israel into a treaty of protection). True to her pact, Israel comes to Gibeon’s defense, smashing the southern coalition. A similar alliance now forms in the north, led by Jabin, king of Hazor. And once again, “The Lord gave them into the hand of Israel” (11:8). Finally, Joshua squelches resistance throughout the entire land until the hills, valleys, plains, and mountains (see 11:16) are secure, ready to be allotted to the waiting tribes.

Your Daily Walk

Nothing is as exasperating to a parent as the newfound independence of a 3-year-old. “Let me do it...don’t help...I can do it myself” are all expressions of a dependent child exercising his awakening sense of independence. The parent’s help may no longer be wanted, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t needed.

When faced with Gibeon's unexpected problem (chapter 9), the leaders of Israel responded with immature independence. “We can handle this one on our own. There is no need to consult God about such an elementary matter. After all, we’ve made tougher decisions than this before!” The foolish peace pact with Gibeon, made without consulting God, was based on false appearances and deceiving words. In the years ahead, it would be a source of heartache to Israel.

What decision are you tempted to make without giving God a single thought? Talk to Him first. God delights in guiding those who acknowledge their need of Him (Proverbs 3:5-6). And the consequences of ignoring Him can’t be overlooked.

Insight - A Hungry Homeland

Earlier, the spies described Canaan as a land that “devours those living in it” (Numbers 13:32). During the seven-year conquest, Joshua’s army destroyed 31 kings and most of the Canaanites, making the spies’ statement ironically prophetic.

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PLACING THE BOOKS OF

Joshua–2 Samuel

March 5

Joshua 13–17

Allocations for Five Tribes

Key Passage: Joshua 14

Overview

Although Israel, under Joshua’s leadership, has conquered Canaan by destroying key cities and their kings, “there are still very large areas of land to be taken over” (13:1). To complete the task, Joshua assigns territories to each individual tribe with instructions to clear out the remaining pagan influence and to possess the land completely. Territories have already been assigned to Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan. But before any allotments are made on the west side, Caleb asks for and receives the area promised to him by Moses: Mount Hebron, a known Canaanite stronghold.

Your Daily Walk

Probably as a child, you either played with model planes, boats, and trucks or knew someone who did. List as many characteristics of a model as you can. Now think about some outstanding characters who emerge from the pages of Scripture, and ask yourself: “Apart from the Lord Jesus Himself, after which individual would I most like to model my life?”

Did the name Caleb cross your mind? Three times in seven verses, we read that he “followed the Lord...wholeheartedly” (14:8-9, 14). Caleb knew what it meant to claim the promises of God and then move out by faith to possess what God had promised.

As you read chapter 14 today, did you notice what was said about Caleb—his age, physical condition, godly ambitions, steps of obedience? Select one way that Caleb’s life can become a model for your life today, and put it to work.

Insight - God’s People and Long Waits

Caleb was 40 years old when Joshua and the other spies checked out Canaan. Afterward, he waited 45 years for God to fulfill His promise of giving him Mount Hebron. So, at 85, as long as God was with him, he wasn’t afraid to go into the hill country, drive out the Canaanites, and take possession of the land. Can you think of other biblical characters who waited a long time for God to fulfill His promise to them?

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March 6

Joshua 18–21

Allocations for Seven Tribes

Key Passage: Joshua 18:1-10; 21:43-45

Overview

With the moving of the Tabernacle to the territory of Ephraim, Shiloh became the new center of Israel’s worship. The remaining seven tribes now receive their inheritance by lot. But for the tribe of Levi, there will be no territorial allotment, for their inheritance is the priestly service of God (13:14; 18:7). Instead, 48 cities are assigned to the three families of Levites (Kohath, Gershon, Merari), and six cities are reserved as places of refuge for accidental manslayers. At last, the task of dividing and distributing the land is complete.

Your Daily Walk

Try envisioning 22 godly men (Joshua plus three men from each of the seven remaining tribes) gathered together in a tent with 8,000 square miles of real estate at stake (18:4, 10). And how are they making the weighty decision about which tribe receives which parcel of land? They are “casting lots”—the Old Testament equivalent of throwing dice!

Does it bother you that Joshua would leave such an important matter as the partitioning of the land to the “chance” roll of the dice? Then remember that in biblical times, God often made His will known in the casting of lots (Leviticus 16:8; Jonah 1:7; Acts 1:15-26). Notice the repeated phrase “in the presence of the Lord” in 18:6, 8, 10. This was no accidental division of the land but a public acknowledgment that God’s will extended even to the parceling of the land.

God’s will for your life today can be known with just as much certainty as Joshua enjoyed thousands of years ago. Only now has God specified other ways of finding it besides the roll of the dice. Make a study of the following verses to learn how He wants to reveal His will to you today: Psalm 119:105; Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:2. If God cares enough about a piece of real estate to guide Joshua’s lots, then how much more must He care about you?

Insight - The End of a Six-Century Wait (21:43-45)

In these three verses, at least three of God’s promised blessings are fulfilled for the nation Israel. How many can you find?

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March 7

Joshua 22–24

Joshua’s Final Challenge

Key Passage: Joshua 22:10-34; 24:29-33

Overview

After being commended for their faithful service in conquering the land of Canaan, the warriors of the tribes east of the Jordan are sent home. They recognize that the Jordan River (which forms a natural barrier between the tribes) may one day form a spiritual barrier as well. To prevent this, a memorial altar is built on the river bank—an act misunderstood and viewed with horror by the tribes west of the Jordan. Civil war nearly breaks out before the real motives behind the altar are revealed. The book closes with Joshua’s farewell address in which he gives the people an ultimatum: “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve....As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (24:15).

Your Daily Walk

Analyze the following situation, then select the correct response: A woman running breathlessly down the road is being pursued by an equally breathless man who is gaining on her at every step. The man is (a) a criminal, (b) a bill collector, (c) a sports enthusiast. Correct answer: (c) The fellow is a runner, and so is his wife. They are out for their morning run, and he is just about to pass her. If you had been an onlooker, would you have assessed the situation correctly?

Motives are hard to read but easy to misread. How can you avoid the kind of mistake made by the tribes west of the Jordan? When tempted to think the worst about another’s actions or attitudes, stop and ask yourself these two questions: (1) What would I want others to believe about me if I were in the same situation? (2) What damage might result if I don’t get all the facts and jump too quickly to the wrong conclusion?

Insight - “Just Look at His Track Record!”

Joshua wanted to ensure that his people would continue following the Lord wholeheartedly after his death. So he wove an incontrovertible argument for his God by recalling numerous instances of His goodness to Israel in the past, ending it with a personal exhortation to “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.” Did his plea bring results? Reread 24:31.

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Judges

Following the conquest of Canaan, Israel plunges into a 350-year period of national deterioration. A monotonous and deadly pattern develops: The people fall into sin; God disciplines them with foreign oppression; the people cry out in repentance; God raises up a deliverer; peace is restored. The cycle of sin repeats itself a total of seven times in the book. But God, ever faithful to His covenant people, extends His grace again and again by sending such leaders as Deborah, Gideon, and Samson.

March 8

Judges 1–5

First Five Judges

Key Passage: Judges 2:6-23

Overview

Efforts by Judah, Simeon, and the other tribes to purge the land of its pagan inhabitants have not been completely successful. Pockets of godless influence remain a source of spiritual stumbling to Israel. Over and over, the cycle repeats itself. Israel falls into national immorality and idolatry, causing God to allow powerful neighboring countries to oppress and enslave her. When the people cry out in repentance, God responds to their renewed commitment by raising up yet another judge to deliver them. But the cycle soon begins again as the nation’s spiritual temperature grows steadily colder.

Your Daily Walk

Look up Romans 12:1-2 and read it several times. Now, write your paraphrase of what it means to conform “to the pattern of this world.”

You will spend nearly every day of your earthly life surrounded by unbelievers. And when you stop to think about it, you really have no choice in the matter. As Paul writes, eliminating contact with non-Christians would require leaving the world (1 Corinthians 5:9-10). Besides, how can you witness to unbelievers and lead them to the Savior if you spend no time with them?

But while you must have contact with the world, you are commanded not to be conformed to the world. That was Israel’s problem. Her people not only had contact with sinners (as a result of their failure to obey God and destroy them completely), but they also embraced the sinner’s sin. They became indistinguishable from the heathen.

Complete this sentence: “One way in which my commitment to Christ causes my lifestyle to differ from the world around me is __________.” Consult 1 Peter 2:9-17 for suggestions.

Insight - Reconstructing the Colorful Period of Judges

An excellent way to trace the judges' cyclical period is by color-coding your Bible. Select five colored pencils, and use one color to highlight each part of the “sin cycle”: sin, servitude, supplication, salvation, and silence (you’ll use each color seven times).

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March 9/10

Judges 6–8

Gideon, the Hesitant Hero

Key Passage: Judges 6:11–7:23

Overview

Israel’s oppression under Midian is brief but severe, as Midian forcibly takes Israel’s harvest. Gideon, called by a divine messenger to deliver God’s people, is a reluctant savior and doubtful candidate for greatness. It takes a pair of confirming signs (first a soggy fleece, then a dry one) to convince Gideon that God can use him. But once his faith is sparked, Gideon watches as God removes all the props upon which he might have trusted: his army (reduced by 99 percent), his weapons (reduced to pitchers, torches, and trumpets), and his military strategy (reduced to a single command: “Stand still!”). When a miracle of deliverance occurs, there can be only one explanation—God did it.

Your Daily Walk

Are you a skeptic—the kind of person who never takes anything at face value, asks many questions, and always requires confirmation of the facts? Then you will appreciate the life of Gideon.

In 1 Corinthians 1:22, Paul comments that “Jews demand miraculous signs,” which was the case with Gideon. Faced with an overwhelming assignment and equipped with rather dubious human qualifications, Gideon needed a bolstered faith. Nowhere in the passage did God chide Gideon for his request for a confirming sign. He gladly and patiently provided what Gideon needed.

When the will of God is clear, to demand a sign is evidence of unwillingness to obey. When God’s will is uncertain, but you are earnestly seeking it (like Gideon), God will make it clear to you. Take a decision you are wrestling with today and ask God to confirm His will through the Bible, Christian counsel, circumstances, or inner assurance. Remember, delayed obedience is really disobedience.

Insight - God’s Unbeatable Team (7:22)

In Leviticus 26:8, God had promised Israel that “five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand.” God fulfilled that promise with Gideon’s band of 300 men, proving He isn’t concerned about the odds.

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March 11

Judges 9–12

Gideon’s Son and Six Judges

Key Passage: Judges 11–12

Overview

Abimelech, Gideon’s son by a concubine, is never called a judge in Israel, though he sets himself up as king and murders 69 of his 70 brothers. As Jotham (the only surviving son) predicted, Abimelech dies as violently as he lived. The brief records of two minor judges, Tola and Jair, are followed by a lengthy treatment of Jephthah in the days of oppression by the Philistines and Ammonites. In contrast to Gideon, who sought to appease the tribe of Ephraim, Jephthah ends up going to war against Ephraim. His action-filled reign as judge is best remembered for his presumptuous vow, which seals forever the fate of his virgin daughter. The section closes with a brief look at three other minor judges who are most noteworthy for their enormous families.

Your Daily Walk

Should Christians take oaths or make vows today? Those who respond “No!” will find ample support in the tragic result of Jephthah’s presumptuous vow (11:30-31, 34-40).

Vows are not to be taken lightly. But the real tragedy of Jephthah was his unwillingness to admit he had acted foolishly and had made a mistake. A willingness to admit errors and seek help is evidence of maturity and strength, not weakness.

Is there a family member or friend you have wronged through a mistake? Admitting you were wrong, asking for forgiveness, and making restitution for any damage can open new opportunities for fellowship and service with him or her. God wants you to be an open, honest person with a realistic view of yourself—one who (unlike Jephthah) is quick to admit mistakes and knows when to seek wise counsel.

Insight - A Deadly Slip of the Tongue

42,000 Ephraimites Jephthah slew were identified by the fact that they said “Sibboleth” instead of “Shibboleth” (12:6). But they aren’t the only ones in Scripture who were betrayed by an accent. When Peter was in the high priest’s courtyard the night Jesus was arrested, he was accused of being a follower of Jesus because of his Galilean speech (see Matthew 26:73).

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March 12

Judges 13–16

Samson, the Carnal Champion

Key Passage: Judges 13, 16

Overview

The life of Samson is a study of unfulfilled potential. The only child of an elderly couple, designated by God a Nazirite from birth, blessed with super-human strength, and commissioned to “begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines” (13:5), Samson instead spends most of his life fulfilling his own passions and desires. His lack of self-control eventually results in blindness and bondage. But God gives him one last portion of power, and in his death, Samson destroys more Philistines than during his entire life of compromise.

Your Daily Walk

Here are some of the wisest words ever penned by Benjamin Franklin: “Doing an injury puts you below your enemy; revenging one makes you but even with him; forgiving one sets you above him.”

Revenge is one of the most natural—and destructive—of all human responses. Rather than trying to right a wrong by forgiving it, the most common reaction is to try to right a wrong by committing another wrong—namely, lashing out at the other person. Such was the problem with Samson. He spent much of his time burning with anger (14:19) and doing harm to those who had wronged him (15:3). But his temper only complicated the problem, never corrected it.

What is your response when someone has wronged you? Do you count to 10 before “blasting off”? Or do you “go into orbit” immediately? To help you cultivate a proper response to others, put this verse to work today: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). You’ll find it hard to express anger—or harbor it—when you whisper.

Insight - Nazirite or Nazarene—What’s the Difference?

Many confuse the two terms Nazirite and Nazarene. Jesus, a Nazarene, was so called because He lived in Nazareth. Samson, a Nazirite, was so called because he did not drink wine, touch dead bodies, or cut his hair—all prohibitions of a Nazirite vow. (For added details concerning this vow, see Numbers 6:1-21.)

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March 13

Judges 17–21

Examples of National Degradation

Key Passage: Judges 17; 19; 21:25

Overview

The closing chapters of Judges provide graphic snapshots of the spiritual and moral degeneration of a nation in which “everyone did as he saw fit” (17:6; 21:25). Chronologically, these events belong with chapter 3, but thematically, they form a fitting conclusion to the book. The spiritual decline is illustrated by Micah, who carves his own idol, consecrates his own son as a priest, and hires a traveling Levite to minister on his behalf. The tribe of Dan confiscates both the idol and the priest to serve their own interests instead. The story of the Levite and his concubine is a grisly flashback to the days of Sodom and Gomorrah. In the ensuing civil war, the tribe of Benjamin is decimated, and efforts to repopulate it result in little more than anarchy.

Your Daily Walk

Is it possible one of the reasons the forces of evil and wickedness are so successful is that the children of God are simply naive?

When you read chapters in the Bible like Judges 17–21, your immediate reaction may be, “It can’t happen here.” No one wants to believe the veneer of civilization is really that thin and fragile. But until you recognize the problem, there is little hope of finding a solution.

Check up on your own I.Q. (Information Quotient). Do you know what the crime rate is in your area? What percent of your community is unchurched? How many unwanted babies were aborted last year? How many incidents of divorce, child abuse, and substance abuse were recorded? Knowing some of those statistics can help you pray more intelligently.

Insight - My, How Times Have Changed!

The Book of Joshua records the history of the nation of Israel in days of victory with faith in God, spiritual vision, strength, and unity. But as you read in Judges of Israel’s defeats, apostasy, worldliness, weakness, and anarchy, you may have thought you were reading about an entirely different nation.

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March 14

Ruth 1–4

Ruth: Interlude of Love

Key Passage: Ruth 1, 4

Overview

The Book of Ruth provides a beautiful interlude of love in the period of the judges in Israel—an era marked by immorality, idolatry, and war. This heartwarming account of devotion and faithfulness tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite widow who leaves her homeland to live with her widowed Israelite mother-in-law in Bethlehem. God honors her commitment by guiding her to the field of Boaz (a near kinsman), where she gathers grain and eventually finds a husband. The book closes with a brief genealogy in which Boaz’s name is prominent as the great-grandfather of King David and an ancestor of Jesus.

Your Daily Walk

Love is more readily demonstrated than described. Ruth demonstrated the true character of love when she willingly and steadfastly pledged her allegiance and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Clearly, by traveling to a foreign country, she had more to lose than gain. She was still young and easily could have remarried someone of her own nationality. But her primary concern was not for her own well-being but for Naomi's well-being. Ruth exemplifies sacrificial love—the kind that Jesus portrayed when He gave His “life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

How can you give of yourself sacrificially to someone around you—your spouse, roommate, employer, neighbor, or friend? Jot down a name in the margin, a specific act of selfless love you can do for that person, and the date when you will do it. Don’t let your love be “Ruthless,” or it will soon become useless (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Insight - Ruth and Esther—Alike and Yet So Different

Ruth and Esther are the only two books in the Bible named after women. Ruth, a Gentile, lived among Hebrews and married a Hebrew. Esther, a Hebrew, lived among Gentiles and married a Gentile. Both women were greatly used by God to bring glory to Himself.

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1 Samuel

By the end of the chaotic period of the judges, God’s people are clamoring for a king. The Book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel’s last judge (Samuel), its first king (Saul), and the early years of its greatest king (David). Because Saul lacks a heart for God, he is rejected by God. Young David—anointed to take his place—must flee to the wilderness to escape Saul’s jealous pursuit. At last, Saul and his sons meet death on Mount Gilboa, setting the stage for 2 Samuel and the golden age of King David.

March 15

1 Samuel 1–3

Samuel’s Birth and Call

Key Passage: 1 Samuel 1:1-20; 3:1-21

Overview

Like a ray of sunshine in the gloomy period of the judges stands the godly family of Elkanah and his barren wife Hannah. God hears Hannah’s fervent prayer for a son—who would be dedicated to the service of God—and graciously provides Samuel (along with three more sons and daughters). In fulfillment of her vow, Hannah brings Samuel to Shiloh, where he begins his life of godly service under the tutelage of Eli, the priest. But when Eli fails to discipline his own sons, bringing reproach upon both God and the Tabernacle, Samuel is commissioned by God to declare judgment upon Eli’s house.

Your Daily Walk

Analyze the following statement: Being a good businessperson does not guarantee that you will be a good parent. Now substitute for the word businessperson each of the following groups of words, and then reread the statement thoughtfully: Bible study leader, Sunday school teacher, volunteer worker, civic leader, student, church leader.

In today’s passage, you were confronted by a sobering scene. Eli—a man who knew his job well as a priest and functioned adequately in his service before the Lord—was nevertheless a failure in his role as a father. Success in one sphere did not guarantee success in the other. And because of his failure as a father, he lost his influence in the spiritual realm as well.

Parents, take an objective look at how well you raise your children to glorify God. Are there some pressing areas of need? Your church library or local Christian bookstore offers a gold mine of resources to help you teach God’s truths creatively and practically to your children. But only you can make parenting the priority it needs to be.

Insight - Samuel, the Tabernacle Toddler

In the ancient Near East, it was common to nurse children until the age of four or five. Thus, since Samuel was brought to the Tabernacle after he was weaned (1:22), he was already old enough to learn much from Eli about the Law and priestly duties.

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February 16

Numbers 21–25

The Bronze Snake and Brash Seer

Key Passage: Numbers 22–24

Overview

There is warfare on the march to the promised land as the Israelites defeat the opposing Canaanites, Amorites, and Bashanites—victories that are soured by Israel’s persistent complaining. Once again, God’s hand of discipline falls, this time in the form of venomous snakes. The reputation of Israel’s God precedes the nation on its relentless march, causing Balak, the king of Moab, to hire Balaam to curse Israel. The plot backfires when Balaam blesses Israel and predicts her future prosperity. But the people of God bring misfortune upon themselves through idolatry and mixed marriages.

Your Daily Walk

Look up the words sovereignty and reign in the dictionary and read what it says about each. Chances are, the definitions will sound somewhat similar.

Balak, king of Moab, knew his days were numbered. In a desperate attempt to preserve his life and the life of his nation, he hired Balaam to bring down a curse upon Israel. Yet, God so controlled the circumstances that Balaam uttered blessings instead of cursing. Rather than bring harm to Israel, Balaam became an agent of God’s blessing upon His people. And all of this happened while the nation remained completely unaware of the threat to its safety! That is sovereignty: God reigning in the affairs of His people.

Sometimes, it’s difficult to see God’s sovereignty in the present, but you can clearly observe it in the past. Looking back over the first few weeks of this year, how often can you see God’s sovereignty at work, protecting, guarding, and keeping you from physical harm? Write out two examples and place them where you will find them at the end of February. Then, you can rejoice again as you remember God’s sovereignty.

Insight - Immortalizing Balaam’s Words

When Samuel Morse was looking for a suitable phrase to test his new invention, the telegraph, his thoughts turned to the statement of God’s sovereignty in Numbers 23:23—“What hath God wrought!” (KJV).

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February 17-18

Numbers 26–30

Recounting and Reviewing

Key Passage: Numbers 26:52–56; 27:18–23

Overview

Nearly 40 years have passed; the unbelieving generation has passed away, a new generation has grown to take its place. Once again, it is time to number the people and assess Israel’s military might. In spite of divine judgments that take the lives of more than 38,000 people (16:49; 25:9), the nation’s fighting force still totals more than 600,000. Moses, who has led the people, will never live to see the conquest of Canaan. His successor, Joshua, will lead the people to victory.

Your Daily Walk

If you were suddenly incapacitated, who would be qualified to pick up the responsibilities and duties of your job? Your family? Your church? As Moses approached his final days as Israel’s leader, he asked God not to leave “the Lord’s people...like sheep without a shepherd” (27:17). Moses was commanded to take Joshua, lay his hands on him, deliver a charge to him before all the Israelites, and “give him some of your authority” (27:20).

The commissioning service, conducted before Eleazar, showed the people whom they must now obey. In this way the transition of leadership would be smooth so that when Moses, the man of God, died, the work of God would not falter.

That’s good advice for any generation. Are you making others more and more dependent upon you at home and church, or are you busy discipling them to one day take your place and carry on the work that you’ve begun? Complete this sentence: “Knowing that no individual is indispensable in the program of God, today I will help prepare (whom?) __________ to continue the work I am currently doing (where?) __________ by (how?)__________.”

Insight - Picking Your Lot by Lots (26:52–56)

There were two aspects to the partitioning of the land of Canaan. The size of each tribe’s parcel was determined by the second census, each tribe receiving territory in proportion to the size of its population. The location of each tribe’s parcel was determined by lot so that no tribe could grumble about the quality of its land.

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ISRAEL’S SACRIFICIAL

Calendar

The sacrifices God required of Israel had to be offered both daily and on special occasions. These rituals taught the people the necessity of shed blood as the grounds for acceptance by God. The sacred calendar was so important that God provided the new generation with a summary of His sacrificial requirements in Numbers 28–29.

*This text indicates that all of these sacrifices were offered along with the daily offerings, called in Numbers 28:3 the “regular burnt offering.”

February 19

Numbers 31–33

The Last Days of a Great Leader

Key Passage: Numbers 31:1–24; 33:50–56

Overview

The final days of Moses’ administration are just as productive as the first. As Israel’s commander-in-chief, he leads a highly successful campaign against Midian; as administrator he wisely handles the request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad that they be allowed to settle east of the Jordan River. He grants permission, provided the two tribes assist the other ten in conquering the promised land first. The remainder of the book of Numbers is a review of the Israelites’ travels from Egypt to Moab.

Your Daily Walk

You’re doing some work in the yard, pulling weeds, when your hand slips and you come up with a finger full of splinters. You think you’ve pulled them all out, only to discover later that you (ouch) missed a few! At that point it doesn’t help much that you removed most of the splinters. It is the few remaining ones that really matter.

God clearly directed Israel to rid the land completely of its pagan inhabitants when the time came for conquest. He warned that any Canaanites left behind would become like painful splinters to the Israelites (33:55–56). Disobeying God, Israel failed to drive them all out, and she was eventually corrupted by immorality and idolatry. The nation was victimized by forces it should have controlled.

Are there any “splinters” in your spiritual life today? Secret sins, nagging habits, little things you know displease God? Carry a pair of tweezers with you today as a reminder that what you fail to remove now will only fester and grow more painful in the future.

Insight - Do Easy Paths Lead to Easy Living?

Moses handled the requests of the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh in a prudent manner. However, their choice to remain outside the promised land in the rich grazing lands of Transjordan was comparable to Lot’s selfish decision. And their choice manifested similar result—of unbelief and conformity to the worldly standards of those about them. God allowed foreign kings to take these three tribes into exile (see 1 Chronicles 5:25–26).

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February 20

Numbers 34–36

Laws of the Land of Promise

Key Passage: Numbers 34:1–15

Overview

Perhaps no greater promises can be found in the pages of Scripture than those contained in Numbers 34–36, little-read chapters introduced with the phrase, “When you enter Canaan...” (34:2). It is a detailed description of inheritances in the land of Canaan—thousands of square miles—when as yet the nation of Israel does not possess as much as a spadeful. Representatives from each of the 12 tribes cast lots for land they as yet do not own; the Levites are given 48 cities, not one of which has as yet been conquered. Fortified by faith, the people prepare to fight battles that have already been won.

Your Daily Walk

With eyes on the television screen, a group of hometown hockey fans howl their approval as the match progresses. When the home team falls behind 1–0 in the first period, the fans are delighted; when the score goes to 2–0 in the second period, the excitement grows; when in the third period the home team still trails 2–1, they go crazy with joy. Why? Because before the broadcast began, the fans turned to another channel and learned the final score—3–2, in favor of the home team! Victory was assured even before the program began.

In the same way, the Israelites could face the walled cities and giant warriors of Canaan confident that the victory had already been won in God’s strength.

Tape the words of Luke 1:37 to the corner of your television or computer screen to remind you that when the battle is the Lord’s, the outcome is already certain.

Insight - Cities of Refuge, Savior of Refuge (35:32)

For the murderer of the innocent, there was no refuge from death. But for the accidental manslayer, six cities would later be designated as places of protection (Joshua 20). Notice the parallels between these cities of refuge in the Old Testament and the Savior of refuge in the New Testament—both were of divine origin, necessary to save from death, accessible to all, and all-sufficient for salvation.

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Deuteronomy

Composed mainly of three great orations by Moses, the book of Deuteronomy (which means “second law”) is a review of the Law first given at the time of the exodus. Here, Moses recounts God’s past dealings with His people and prepares the nation for its arrival in the promised land. Deuteronomy stresses the necessity of obedience to God in every action. Whether possessing the land, defeating the enemy, or simply enjoying life in a new homeland, God’s people must exhibit complete obedience to His commands.

February 21

Deuteronomy 1–4

Motives for Obedience

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 1, 4

Overview

In his first of three sermons to the nation, Moses begins with a review of the past. God had promised His people a new homeland, but Israel failed to possess it because of unbelief and disobedience. For 40 years, they had wandered and died. Now, with the passing of that unbelieving generation, God has led the nation in smashing victories over Sihon and Og, bringing them to the threshold of the promised land once again. But before they are ready to enter, they must learn a crucial lesson from the past—the lesson that obedience brings victory and blessing, while disobedience results only in defeat and judgment.

Your Daily Walk

When you listen to a preacher, you will often hear him make three painfully pointed statements: (1) “God says to do this: __________.” (2) “You are doing this: __________.” (3) “Therefore, you need to change __________ now.” That’s why preaching can make you uncomfortable. From God’s Word, it shows where you are wrong and tries to persuade you to change your attitudes or actions to conform with God’s commands.

Moses’ first sermon to Israel is a masterpiece of godly persuasion as he points out the past, present, and future dealings of God. Israel should obey God because of her past experience of God’s deliverance, provision, and judgment; Israel should obey God because of her present experience of God’s sufficiency in supplying her needs and in fighting her battles; and Israel should obey God because of her future promises of blessing or cursing, all hinging on her proper response to God’s pointed commands.

If you were preaching Deuteronomy 1–4 instead of Moses, which of God’s past, present, or future dealings in your life could you point to as proof positive that God ought to be obeyed?

Insight - Standing on the Promises of Old

Moses’ confidence in God is primarily rooted in God’s promises to Israel’s forefathers. The phrase “the Lord swore” (1:8) or its equivalent is repeated at least five times in Moses’ three sermons!

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THE INFLUENCE OF

Deuteronomy

Both Old and New Testament writers show great familiarity with the lessons contained in Deuteronomy. The New Testament writers alone quote it directly in 17 of the 27 New Testament books and allude to it more than 80 times. Jesus turned back each of Satan’s three temptations in the wilderness with words from Deuteronomy (see Matthew 4:1–11). When He summarized the entire Old Testament Law (Matthew 22:37), He quoted Deuteronomy again. Below is a chart showing how extensively the writers of Scripture have drawn upon the contents of Deuteronomy.

February 22

Deuteronomy 5–7

Measures of Obedience

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 7

Overview

Moses’ second sermon begins in chapter 5 and goes through chapter 26. He opens with a repetition of the Ten Commandments (hence the name Deuteronomy—“second law”) and encourages the people to obey the Lord from a heart of love, to teach their children obedience, and to be careful not to forget the Lord in times of prosperity. Victory over the pagan occupants of Canaan is assured as long as the people obey God’s commands. They will prevail, not because of their strength, but because of their all-conquering God.

Your Daily Walk

Reading today’s section, you may be reminded of the fairy tale about the goose that laid the golden egg.

A farmer, upon discovering a most remarkable golden-egg-laying goose, got impatient about having to wait for the daily quota of eggs. He chopped off the goose’s head to find the source of the eggs...and, in a fit of impatience, destroyed the very source of his prosperity.

“I want it all—and I want it now!” is the cry of the day, even among many Christians. But God is not limited by our impatient timetables. He gave the Israelites a principle for conquest that still applies today: “little by little” (7:22). God’s methods often take time. He could have given the land to Israel in a day, but instead, He instructed them to move step by step, trusting Him each “cubit” of the way.

Where are you hoping for instant results in your Christian life: victory over a habit, knowledge of God’s Word, spiritual maturity? God’s way is not rush, rush, rush but “little by little.” Look for a small but significant step of growth you can take today: a verse to memorize, a command to obey, a promise to treasure.

Insight - Rich Milk and Sticky Fingers!

The description of the promised land as “a land flowing with milk and honey” depicts a land of wealth and prosperity. Milk was part of the Hebrews’ staple diet, and a rich supply indicated vast pasturelands. Honey was a delicacy.

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February 23

Deuteronomy 8–11

Mentality of Obedience

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 8–9

Overview

Moses continues his review of Israel’s history as an illustration to the people of God’s faithfulness throughout their 40-year wilderness trek. God’s provision in the past provides confidence for the future. He will continue to do great things for His people if they continue to walk in obedience to Him. But if they are disobedient, ignore His commands, and worship other gods, God will judge their rebellion. The facts are clear: If Israel loves and obeys God, she will experience blessing. If she disobeys, God’s judgment will be sure.

Your Daily Walk

Walk through the rooms of your house and note all the items you own that you did not purchase yourself, but received as gifts. As you look at each item, try to remember who gave it to you and when. If you are like most people, it will be difficult.

Moses’ review of Israel’s history was a verbal recollection of all the good things Israel possessed as a result of God’s blessing. The manna in the wilderness and God’s other provisions merely foreshadowed what lay ahead: a land flowing with milk and honey. But the promise of prosperity in Canaan pointed to a potential problem. The people of future generations might forget who gave them these good gifts and take personal credit for their own prosperity. Moses drove home the message that the Israelites were never to forget it was God who supplied their needs and gave them their abundance.

Have you forgotten who gave you the gifts you possess? Write a thank-you note to God, expressing your gratitude for something He has given you in recent days. He loves to hear you say, “Thanks.”

Insight - “Do Not Forget”

Moses reminds the people not to make God’s goodness a basis for personal pride. Complete these critical thoughts:
Remember how the Lord __________ (8:2).
Remember that God gives you __________ (8:18).
Don’t forget how you __________ (9:7).

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February 24/25

Deuteronomy 12–16

Ceremonial Regulations

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 12:1–16; 14:22–15:11

Overview

Following his review of the past and preview of the future, Moses turns to the more specific and detailed statutes that will be in effect as Israel takes up residence in the land. Desiring that His people be separate from the nations around them, God commands that Israel’s religious life be free from all associations with idolatry. God’s chosen people must be characterized by only the highest standards of purity, hygiene, and treatment of the poor—actions that will demonstrate Israel’s unique relationship with God. In addition, Israel’s festivals must be times of consecration as well as celebration.

Your Daily Walk

When you hear of some need, are you a grudging or a generous giver?

Yesterday, you learned that everything you own is a gift from God. Today, there is a companion lesson: God expects those whom He has blessed to reflect the same generosity to others that He has shown to them. God specified to Israel that they were to be openhanded with their possessions if they saw a brother in need. Since God was the source of their supply, it was almost as if He were doing the giving Himself. Therefore, His people could give generously, knowing their needs would also be met by the Giver of every good gift.

When seen in the light of Christ’s command, “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8), your giving can take on new depth and meaning. You can be a source of blessing to someone else and, at the same time, receive a blessing yourself. Tap into God’s vast storehouse and help someone you know who needs financial assistance this week. Remember, “freely received, freely give.”

Insight - A Painful (and Prohibited) Funeral Ritual (14:1)

The practices of self-inflicted wounds and baldness were signs of mourning for the dead that the Canaanites used as part of their pagan worship. God strictly forbade such activities for His consecrated people. Does He expect any less from you? (See 1 Peter 2:9.)

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February 26

Deuteronomy 17–20

Civil Regulations

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 17

Overview

In addition to the religious laws regulating national worship, Moses sets forth civil laws to govern the selection and application of civil authority in the land. How do you choose a king? How do you prove the trustworthiness of a prophet? How do you protect innocent manslayers? How do you treat captured people humanely and impartially? You’ll find the answers in today’s section, along with regulations for prophets and priests, kings and kingdoms.

Your Daily Walk

If it is indeed true that “righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34), how would you grade your nation in its efforts to promote righteous- ness in the following areas (A = Excellent, C = Average, etc.)?

_____ Dealing with idolatry (objects of worship, 17:2–5)
_____ Promoting justice (impartiality and fairness, 17:8–11)
_____ Prohibiting occult practices (witchcraft, etc., 18:9–14)
_____ Practicing truthfulness (in government, in court, 19:15–19)

As a concerned Christian, you cannot do everything to promote national righteousness, but you can do something. Prayer, fasting, phone calls, letters, emails, a fresh commitment to Christian distinctives—all are powerful deterrents to evil in your nation, but only if you use them. Will you pick one and put it to work today?

Insight - Three “Don’ts,” One “Do” for Future Kings

In 17:14–20 you’ll find four specific commands directed to future monarchs who would reign over God’s people. Consider each command, and compare the performance of Solomon (one such future monarch) as recorded in the Book of 1 Kings.

God's Command (Deut)
“Don’t acquire __________” (17:16)
Solomon’s Response (1 Kings 4:26)
“Don’t acquire __________” (17:17)
Solomon’s Response (1 Kings 11:3)
“Don’t acquire __________” (17:17)
Solomon’s Response (1 Kings 10:14)
“Don’t acquire __________” (17:18)
Solomon’s Response (1 Kings 11:11)

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February 27

Deuteronomy 21–26

Societal Regulations

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 23:1–8

Overview

How do you promote peace and stability in the land and at the same time deal with unsolved murders, foreign settlers, divorce, family inheritance, stray livestock, sanitation problems, territorial disputes, and a host of other matters? Moses seeks to answer many of these “What if?” situations before they arise in order to insure the orderly management of God’s holy people in the Holy Land.

Your Daily Walk

Have you ever seen a restaurant sign that says, “No bare feet allowed”? What was the reason? Why would restaurants pick on people with bare feet?

Under the Mosaic Law, some people were excluded from the assembly: those with certain defects, those born illegitimately, those of Ammonite or Moabite descent (23:1–3). Why this seemingly arbitrary exclusion of parties from Israel’s religious community? Just like the bare feet in the restaurant, each was a potential source of defilement for all the others in the community.

Mutilation of the body, brazen immorality, and pagan intermarriage were common practices in the Canaanite community. If these defilements were to be kept out of the Israelite camp, certain exclusions had to be enforced.

The church today is often both inclusive and exclusive. Carefully and thoughtfully, read Ephesians 2:1–7. Then write down your answer to this question: “Because of my inclusion in the body of Christ, what is one source of defilement I need to exclude from my life of service to the Lord?” Ask God to give you the strength you need to completely eliminate that sin from your life.

Insight - Buried Like a Common Criminal

The burial of a criminal who is hanged (21:22–23) foreshadows the ignominious death suffered by our Lord. Verse 23 is quoted in the New Testament in reference to Christ’s taking the curse of our sins upon Himself: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree” (Galatians 3:13). Also see John 19:31.

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February 28

Deuteronomy 27–30

Commitment to the Covenant

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 27–28

Overview

Moses has come to a solemn, climactic moment in his address to the nation—the time for a recommitment of the people to God’s covenant. He reminds the new wilderness generation that the potential for God’s richest blessing awaits them in the land, as well as the potential for His severest judgment. Moses dramatically delivers the challenge: “I have set before you life and death....Choose life” (30:19).

Your Daily Walk

“I wish I were dead!” Perhaps at an unguarded moment of despair or shame, you vented your frustration with such words. But you didn’t really mean them literally. Most people want to live. In fact, they will do just about anything to preserve their life. But that strong survival instinct doesn’t always carry over into the spiritual realm. Moses made the choice transparently clear for Israel with these two simple (and unalterable) formulas:

1). OBEDIENCE = LIFE
2). DISOBEDIENCE = DEATH

And yet, in the months ahead you will read the tragic national consequences of Israel’s bad decisions.

You are facing similar decisions today with equally far-reaching consequences. You, like Israel, can choose death by rebelling against God’s will. Or by obeying, you can choose life—and daily fellowship with the God of life. Which will it be?

Take a note card and write the two formulas on it. Tape the card to your refrigerator, bathroom mirror, or computer screen. Let it remind you often of God’s timeless principle of life and death. The choice is yours.

Insight - The Day the Slave Markets Were Glutted

The horrible curse of 28:68 literally came true! After the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, the slave markets of Egypt became so glutted with captive Israelites that there were not enough buyers for them all. God always keeps His promises—both those that carry blessing and those that carry punishment.

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February 29

Deuteronomy 31–34

Culmination of Moses’ Ministry

Key Passage: Deuteronomy 32, 34

Overview

With the covenant established again and the nation poised at the Jordan River, Moses completes his duties as the leader of God’s people. He commissions Joshua as his successor with a sober warning of Israel’s future rebellion. In order for the people to remember his message of life, Moses records his final words as a song and teaches the melody and message to the nation. After pronouncing blessings on each of the 12 tribes, Moses climbs Mount Nebo and the Lord gives him a glimpse of the promised land. There he dies, physically strong in spite of his 120 years. And though his final resting place remains a mystery to this day, he had the finest of Undertakers to arrange his funeral.

Your Daily Walk

You’ve heard of fair-weather friends — the kind who flock to you when everything is going right, and disappear when things start going wrong. But have you ever heard of “foul-weather friends,” the kind who cling to you when things are going badly, and ignore you when everything is running smoothly?

“Foul-weather friends” is a perfect description of the children of Israel. During their times of need in the wilderness, Israel followed after God despite occasional grumblings and rebellions. But God warned the nation that coming prosperity would bring indifference toward Him. When the promised land was conquered and occupied, the nation would abandon God for the idols of the land they were entering (31:16; 32:15, 18).

When you’re face to face with a crisis, it’s natural to cry out to God for help. But what about when things are running smoothly? When the wind is at your back, your health is excellent, there’s money in the bank, and the bills are all paid—what then? Try singing a few verses from the “Song of Moses” (chapter 32), expressing your devotion to God in the good times as well as the bad.

Insight - A Fitting Epitaph for Moses’ Tombstone

“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms” (33:27).

FOUR THINGS GOD WANTS YOU TO KNOW

God loves you and has a purpose for your life. And the only way you can discover it is to accept His gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. All you need to know about your need for salvation is spelled out in the Bible.

1. Your Need As God Sees It
   “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
2. Your Own Helplessness
   “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" (John 14:6)
3. God’s Provision for Your Need
   “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)
4. God’s Promise
   “[Jesus said], ‘I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand’ ” (John 10:28).

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).

Knowing these things, put your trust in Jesus Christ. “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved” (Romans 10:9-10).

Talk to God about your eternal salvation. This prayer could guide you: “Lord, I confess that I am a sinner and cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus was both God and man, and that He paid for all my sins when He died on the cross. I believe that He rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will one day come again. I now commit my life to Jesus Christ, trusting Him alone as my Savior. Amen.”

If you want to speak to someone about a relationship with Jesus, call 1-863-859-6000.

Leviticus

In Exodus, Israel was redeemed and established as a kingdom of priests and as a holy nation. In Leviticus, God shows His people how they are to fulfill their priestly calling. Led out of slavery and into the sanctuary of God, Israel must now move from salvation into service, from deliverance into dedication. This move involves a system of animal sacrifices to be made for the atonement of the people’s sins and a series of laws to govern all aspects of daily life, worship, and service.

February 1

Leviticus 1–3

Aromatic Offerings

Key Passage: Leviticus 1

Overview

The first three chapters of Leviticus describe the five types of sacrifices the Israelites were to offer in their newly completed tabernacle. The first three were voluntary expressions of worship and commitment to God. The final two sacrifices were required to restore an individual’s fellowship with God. The first three offerings consisted of (1) the burnt offering, signifying the offerer’s full devotion to God; (2) the grain offering, a testimony to God’s daily provision; and (3) the fellowship offering, declaring the worshiper’s thanksgiving to God.

Your Daily Walk

Are you a “praise planner”? Praise planners are people who regularly set aside time to praise God and acknowledge their dependence upon Him. Many of His daily provisions—the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the cars we drive— may seem so commonplace that we tend to take them for granted. But any demonstration of His care is a fitting occasion for us to offer a sacrifice of praise to God.

Praise is so pleasing to God that He has instituted the means whereby His people can praise Him. For the Israelites, the avenue was through sacrifices. Today, the outward expressions are different, but the response should be the same. God wants us to offer Him a spiritual “sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15), and He wants us to do it continually—beginning now.

If the smoke from your “altar” has been a little thin lately, perhaps you need to take a minute to concentrate on praising God. Take a pencil and paper and mentally walk through the past week of your life, all 168 hours of it. Which events come to mind that show God’s care at work in your life? Make those the substance of a “sacrifice of praise.” God loves the aroma when you do.

Insight - Looking for Levites in Leviticus

Though the word Levite occurs only three times in the book (25:32–33), Leviticus is an apt title for the volume describing the law of the priests who were all descended from the tribe of Levi.

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February 2

Leviticus 4–7

Sin Offerings

Key Passage: Leviticus 4–5

Overview

The final two types of sacrifices that God instituted for Israel were mandatory rather than voluntary and restored the offerer to fellowship with God. The sin offering covered wrongs committed unintentionally by any member of the nation and reminded the person of the cost of sin. The restitution offering provided for restoration of the offender to fellowship with God and repayment for any injury or property loss.

Your Daily Walk

Make a note of three of the top priorities in your life—three things you live for every day. Now draw a circle around the priority that ranks as number one. (Was it your family? your career? your investments? your health? happiness?)

Arranging your priorities in the order of their importance will help you determine both the destination of your life and the direction you must move in order to reach it. As you read today’s chapters, you will find the words “before the Lord” and “to the Lord” repeated often. These two phrases make it clear that God was the focus of Israel’s sacrifices, not the offerer. Everything about the Israelites’ worship taught them that God was to occupy first place in their national and personal lives, regardless of the trends all around them.

The centrality of God in the life of the nation should serve as a reminder to you of the place God wants to have in your life as well. God will never be satisfied with second or third place in your priorities. Take another look at your list of top priorities. Is God first? If not, why not rewrite the list, placing God in the first position? Only then will you be able to organize your life’s priorities as “to the Lord.”

Insight - What About Deliberate Sins?

The sin offering was only for sins of ignorance (sins that were not premeditated). What about willful, deliberate sins? That person was to be “cut off from his people” (Numbers 15:30–31), formally excluded from religious privileges—a severe punishment in Israel’s religion-centered community.

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February 3/4

Leviticus 8–10

Priestly Role in the Sacrifices

Key Passage: Leviticus 9:23–10:7

Overview

After a description of the sacrifices come the details regarding the sacrificers: the priests. Holy sacrifices demand a holy priesthood, so Moses consecrates Aaron and his four sons to minister in the tabernacle. After seven days of ceremonial preparation, the priestly function is inaugurated amid great celebration. The joyful week ends abruptly, however, with the disobedience and death of two of Aaron’s sons, leading to a divine code of conduct that would subsequently regulate the activities of the priests.

Your Daily Walk

There are many verses in the Bible that would be fitting selections for the title “Saddest Passage in All of Scripture.” But one short verse you might easily overlook is found in today’s section.

The description of Nadab and Abihu’s premature deaths ends with this somber statement: “Aaron remained silent” (10:3). No tears, no outpouring of grief, no lament for the deaths of two religious leaders. Just the pathetic sight of a bereaved father whose sons had not learned to respect the holiness of the Lord.

Parents, how are you doing in the task of teaching your children to respect God’s house, to love God’s Word, and to obey God’s voice? Children often close their ears to advice and open their eyes to example. Around the dinner table tonight (or perhaps at bed- time), talk about the story of Nadab and Abihu. Ask each child what he or she learned from the story about the importance of obeying God’s Word and of reverencing God’s house. It could save them—and you—much pain later on.

Insight - Our God Is a Consuming Fire

In 9:24 the fire of the Lord consumed the offering; in 10:2 the fire of the Lord consumed the offerers when Nadab and Abihu willfully did what was “contrary to [God’s] command” (10:1). Their tragic deaths underscored the importance of strict obedience by the priests and of careful attention to the holiness of God.

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February 5

Leviticus 11–15

Personal Purity for God’s People

Key Passage: Leviticus 11:45–47; 14:54–57

Overview

Being God’s holy people demands a distinctive lifestyle. Today’s section sets forth an assortment of laws designed to promote ceremonial purity in the nation. Cleanliness is an indispensable part of worshiping a holy God, whether in matters of food, hygiene, disease, or contact with polluting influences. For the Israelites, this involved dietary laws, strict health requirements, and temporary quarantines. In minute detail, each defiling situation is outlined, along with the steps that must be taken for the person to be declared ceremonially clean and therefore fit to worship God in the congregation.

Your Daily Walk

Think back to your last visit to the grocery store and make a list of the items you recall seeing on the shelves whose principle use is for cleansing: soaps, bleaches, brushes, detergents, etc. Now ponder this simple yet profound truth: The reason so much emphasis must be placed on getting things clean is because it is so easy to get things dirty. Even a vacant house collects dust, but fill it with a family, and you have a ready-made market for the “cleanser companies.”

The same is true in the spiritual realm. Polluting influences are everywhere: on the Internet, on the printed page, in conversations you overhear. Unless you exercise care, your heart and mind will soon be as soiled as your environment. Even with care, we need God’s cleansing formula. Tape the words of 1 John 1:9 to your computer to remind you to watch out for dirt...and to wash up often.

Insight - A Holy People, a Horrible Disease

Leprosy in Old Testament times was regarded as hereditary and incurable. The leper was excluded from the camp, and only after quarantine and careful inspection would that person be declared clean. Leprosy is often used in the New Testament as a picture of sin. Like leprosy, sin’s treatment demands cleansing and proper evaluation of ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:31). The forgiveness of sin, like the healing of leprosy, can be effected by God alone.

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February 6

Leviticus 16–17

Day of Atonement

Key Passage: Leviticus 16:1–22; 17:11

Overview

On the Day of Atonement the nation gathered to watch as the high priest entered the Most Holy Place. Fresh blood was spilled on the altar to cover the sins of the nation for another year—to postpone yet again the final day of reckoning for those sins. Because of the centrality of blood in the nation’s worship, its use was prohibited for any purpose other than that of sacrifice to God, for “it is the blood that makes atonement” (17:11).

Your Daily Walk

Have you ever been the “scapegoat” for someone else’s irresponsible action? There are certain categories of individuals who often seem to end up as a scapegoat (the one bearing the blame for others): younger brothers or sisters, the previous generation, the family dog; in short, those least able to defend themselves.

Have you ever wondered where the scapegoat originated? It is as old as Leviticus 16. Every year on the Day of Atonement, Aaron would select a young goat, “lay both hands on the head...confess over it all the wickedness and rebellion of the Israelites...[and] send the goat away into the desert” (16:21), presumably to die. Just as the goat slain for the sin offering covered the penalty of the nation’s sin for another year (16:15–19), so the scapegoat carried away (but never cured) the guilt of the nation. Only Jesus Christ—the Perfect Sacrifice and the Perfect Scapegoat—could deal with both.

Now turn to Isaiah 53:3–10 and read about the One who was “crushed for our iniquities.” If you have never done so, thank God for sending His Son to be your scapegoat.

Insight - Looking Toward a Day That’s Past History

Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is commemorated by observant Jews. It falls in September or October on the tenth day after the Jewish New Year and is marked by repentance, prayers, and abstention from food, drink, sex, and work. During this season, pray that all unbelievers will one day accept the once-for-all atonement made by the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

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February 7

Leviticus 18–20

Distinctiveness in the Nation

Key Passage: Leviticus 18:24–30; 19:35–37; 20:22–26

Overview

The life of a nation can be no holier than the lives of the individuals who make up that nation. Purity in both sexual and interpersonal relationships must be maintained if holiness is to be the mark of the nation of God. These are not merely divine “suggestions,” as the stiff penalties of chapter 20 prove. God requires that violators of His laws be punished, and that the punishment be appropriate to the offense. God’s goal is clear: to preserve a people distinctly different in their lifestyle and commitment to Him. “I, the Lord...have set you apart from the nations to be my own” (20:26).

Your Daily Walk

Two men were running to catch the last taxi in sight. The smaller of the two insisted that he should take the taxi. Said the other, “Give me one good reason why I should let you have it.” To which the first responded, “I’m late for my karate class.”

It’s one thing to hear the words, “You shall not...” It’s something else again when those words are prefaced by, “I am the Lord.” This is not some man’s subjective idea of what godly conduct should be like. Rather, God Himself is addressing His people, reminding them of their responsibility to live both their private and national lives to His glory.

Underline the phrase “I am the Lord” or “I am the Lord your God” every time it occurs in chapters 18–20. Count the total and ask yourself: “If God has staked His name __________ times to these commands, then what should my response be today?”

Insight - Potent Penalties for Severe Sins

Today, “alternative lifestyles” are openly accepted by many as the norm. Not so in Moses’ day. Check the stiff penalty specifically commanded by God for the sin of:

• Cursing one’s parents (20:9)
• Adultery (20:10)
• Homosexuality (20:13)

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February 8

Leviticus 21–23

Holy Priests and Yearly Feasts

Key Passage: Leviticus 21, 23

Overview

Israel’s priests are representatives of the infinitely holy God. As such, God demands that they accept greater restrictions on their conduct and assume more responsibility than their countrymen. Priests must be free from defilements and defects in order to serve in the tabernacle. God also demands that they be responsible for maintaining the acceptability of the sacrifices they offer. But while the requirements are stringent, the blessings of service are great, as seen in the priests’ participation in Israel’s yearly feasts.

Your Daily Walk

You walk into your favorite restaurant and order a chicken dinner. When it arrives, you immediately detect a problem. Someone has already eaten half your meal. What would you do now?

Probably you would demand a full meal—or a full refund. Anything less than the restaurant’s best would be returned immediately and with good reason. After all, no one wants to be served a second-class meal. Nothing less than the best will do.

Now consider the God of Israel. He wanted His people to bring the best of their flocks and herds, not the blemished and useless, as offerings to Him. By demanding only perfect sacrifices, God revealed something about His perfect character, as well as something about the offerer. A grateful heart was evident when someone was willing to give his choicest possessions to the God he worshiped. Second best just isn’t good enough for our incomparable Creator.

Do your “sacrifices” reflect an attitude of gratitude? Do the things you give to God—your time, abilities, and resources—represent the best you have to offer Him? If not, what needs to change today so that your sacrifices are strictly “USDA Choice”?

Insight - Three Trips to the Capital

The seven appointed times on Israel’s calendar included three annual events—Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks (known as Shauvot), and the Feast of Tabernacles (known as Sukkot). All three feasts required all males to attend the central place of worship in Jerusalem.

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A SECOND LOOK AT

Israel’s Feasts

Israel’s feasts provided the people with a yearly opportunity to look back upon the great epochs in their national history, and look ahead to the time when Messiah would come to fulfill the events pictured in the feasts. The were seven annual feasts. Four were bunched together at the beginning of the year and portrayed events that Christ fulfilled in His first coming. The other three occurred in the seventh month and pictured events that Christ will fulfill at His second coming. The interval between the feasts on Israel’s calendar corresponds to the time gap between the first and second comings of Christ.

February 9

Leviticus 24–27

Holiness in the Promised Land

Key Passage: Leviticus 26–27

Overview

The final chapters of Leviticus deal with various regulations regarding cursings, vows, and conservation of the land—all in view of Israel’s approaching occupation of Canaan. The needs of the tabernacle must be met with a daily supply of oil and bread. The land must be given a sabbatical rest every seventh year. The Year of Jubilee provides that all debts be cancelled and all property returned to the original owner—a clear reminder that the people are only tenants on God’s land. Penalties for disobedience are severe, but blessing is assured for those who will keep God’s commands.

Your Daily Walk

Question: What do a speeding ticket, an overdue movie rental, and a “bounced” check have in common?

Answer: Each represents a violation of a posted restriction. When you drive faster than the speed limit, keep a movie rental longer than the allotted time, or write a check for more than the amount in your checking account, you are asking for trouble because you have exceeded the clearly posted limits.

God put up warning signs all along the journey to Canaan that read, “Obey Me!” Instead of heeding the signs, the people ignored them and violated God’s commands. But not one person could accuse God of enforcing laws He had not previously “posted.”

God is still in the business of making His will plain to those who will look for it. Write in the margin a few of the things you know God wants you to be doing today because He has said so in His Word. Pick one item from your list (where you’re lagging behind), and make it “Item One” on your schedule today.

Insight - Giving the Dirt a Vacation

Leviticus 25:2–5 contains a valuable principle of agronomy (soil management) which is still practiced by knowledgeable farmers today. It prescribes a seventh-year sabbath, a restorative fallow period, for all crop-bearing fields.

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Numbers

Beginning with events about one year after the exodus from Egypt, Numbers is the book of divine discipline, showing the painful consequences of wrong choices by God’s chosen people. Because of the nation’s unbelief, Israel’s 11-day journey becomes a 40-year ordeal. Numbers contains the records of two generations, two censuses, and two sets of instructions for enjoying the promised land. The lesson from history is clear: Obedience is the path to blessing in any generation.

February 10/11

Numbers 1–4

The Nation Counted and Camped

Key Passage: Numbers 1, 4

Overview

With the nation of Israel now poised, ready to begin its march toward Canaan, God commands Moses to number the fighting men and arrange the tribes around the camp with the tabernacle in the center. The census of the soldiers suggests a total population of two to three million people. The Levites are also counted and assigned specific tasks in connection with the care and transportation of the tabernacle and its furnishings.

Your Daily Walk

Question: Which member of your physical body is more important: your eyes or your ears, your arm or your Adam’s apple?

Question: Which part of the spiritual body of Christ is more important: the teacher or administrator? The pastor or exhorter? (Now check Ephesians 4:16 for the answer.)

Because God accomplishes His purposes through people, He has given each of His children specific gifts, talents, and skills to do His will. The sons of Merari (4:29–32) were told by God to carry specific parts of the tabernacle—piece by piece. Everyone knew exactly what his job was. And the importance of their work was clear to all, for the Employer was none other than the Lord.

What act of service has God given you to do? The task may seem small compared to what others are doing, but God never asks you to compare yourself with others. He simply desires your faithfulness.

Use the smaller parts of your body to complete this sentence: “I’m so glad my (kneecap, eyelash, etc.) is a faithful part of my body, and that’s what I want to be known as in the body of Christ—a faithful member.”

Insight - Say, You Look Familiar!

God instructed Moses to arrange the 12 tribes in the camp of Israel by ancestry. Since the tribes were descended from four different mothers (all fathered by Jacob), God placed those tribes that were the nearest of kin closest to one another.

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February 12

Numbers 5–8

The Nation Cleansed for Worship

Key Passage: Numbers 6, 8

Overview

God now further prepares the nation for the coming trip to Canaan by commanding Moses to deal with four specific problem areas: moral defilement, jealous suspicion, unmet needs in the tabernacle, and uncleansed Levites in the service of the Lord. Israel’s purity in moral conduct and interpersonal relationships is of utmost importance because the holy God of Israel dwells in her camp (5:3).

Your Daily Walk

True or False: God demands holiness from His people. Absolutely true. But living a holy life is easier said than done, because it involves maintaining personal purity while rubbing shoulders with a decidedly impure world.

As God prepared Israel to enter a land dominated by pagan influences, He knew His children would be exposed to all manner of idolatry and evil. So He required that they live in a completely different way. His purpose was to insulate the Israelites from the influence of evil, but not totally isolate them from the people to whom they could be a testimony. Israel was a witness about the true God in the midst of corruption, but the nation couldn’t do that hidden away in the wilderness. Only as Israel’s pagan neighbors saw her godly national lifestyle lived out in a radical way before them would they be influenced toward righteousness.

Are the people around you influenced by your distinctive life-style, or do you blend inconspicuously into the world around you? Does your lifestyle reflect or refute your godly priorities and purity? Select one lifestyle goal for this coming week, and make it your “project in purity.” Better yet, team up with another Christian.

Insight - Twelve Offerings in One Service

Even though the offerings of the 12 leaders of the tribes of Israel (given on the day the tabernacle worship was inaugurated) were identical, each is recorded in great detail (7:84–88), showing God’s pleasure with their individual (and generous) gifts.

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February 13

Numbers 9–12

The Nation Commences the Journey

Key Passage: Numbers 10:11–13; 11:1–15

Overview

After a special celebration of the Passover in the Wilderness of Sinai, the people watch as the pillar of cloud begins to move. Trumpets blare forth the exciting news: It is time to march! No sooner has Sinai faded from view than the congregation begins to grumble and complain. The manna is monotonous, water is scarce, the journey is hard—Egypt would have been far better than this. For every problem there is a corresponding provision from God, until at last the people arrive at a desert oasis called Kadesh—the last scheduled stop before they enter the land of promise. It is time for a crucial test of the people’s commitment to walk by faith.

Your Daily Walk

Have you ever spent the night in a desert? If so, you will have little trouble identifying with the complaints of the Israelites as they begin their march from the Wilderness of Sinai to the promised land.

A desert is a hostile place. By day, the sun beats down mercilessly and the temperature soars. (God knew this, and provided a traveling umbrella—the pillar of cloud.) By night, the temperature often plunges to near freezing (again, a fact that God anticipated by providing a traveling furnace—the pillar of fire). Food is scarce and water is virtually nonexistent in a desert—unless, of course, you are eating manna from the dew and drinking water from rocks!

Do you see God’s hand of provision in the life of His nation? More important, do you see God’s hand of provision in your life? Repeatedly, the Israelites expressed grumbling instead of gratitude. Why not enjoy the blessing they missed by spending the next few minutes praising God for His daily provision.

Insight - Guided by a Pillar...and by Hobab

Though God provided divine guidance for the people in the form of a pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, this did not preclude human agents. Moses persuaded his brother-in-law Hobab to act as a guide (10:29–31). God not only gives direction through His Word and through His Holy Spirit, He also uses people to guide our paths along life’s journey.

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February 14

Numbers 13–16

Rebellion and Death in the Wilderness

Key Passage: Numbers 13–14

Overview

As Israel camps at the edge of Canaan, the Lord commands Moses to select one man from each tribe to form a survey party to report on conditions in the land. The spies travel into Canaan and return with a report that stuns the people. The land is full of giants and fortified cities. By a vote of 10–2, the spies officially discourage the nation from claiming the land, and Caleb and Joshua’s voices of faith are drowned out as the people cry, “Back to Egypt!” God punishes His children for their lack of faith by sentencing them to 40 years of wandering in the wilderness—one year for each day the spies surveyed the land.

Your Daily Walk

Action and reaction have more in common than their spelling. They are inseparable halves of everything you do.

Because “no man is an island,” your actions touch the lives of those close to you—family, friends, and co-workers. Therefore, the decisions you make today spill over into the lives of others tomorrow—whether for good or evil.

The Israelites who rejected God at Kadesh quickly realized the painful consequences of their willful disobedience. If they had remained faithful to God, they would have enjoyed the blessings of the land immediately. Instead, parent and child alike suffered through 40 years of desert wanderings until the unbelieving generation had died.

Are you facing a seemingly insurmountable problem today— your own private “Canaan,” full of giants and walled cities? Remember, it’s the size of your God—not the size of your giants— that counts. Take a few minutes today to share your Canaan with a prayer partner. Then together, ask God to help you make decisions that impact others for good and for God.

Insight - Warning! Warning! Warning!

Israel’s revolt at Kadesh provides such a significant lesson on the price of unbelief that it is mentioned three times in the New Testament: 1 Corinthians 10:1–12; Hebrews 3:7–11, 4:1–11.

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February 15

Numbers 17–20

The Rod, Red Cow, and Rebellion

Key Passage: Numbers 18, 20

Overview

Two sounds accompany the people as they wander in the wilderness: the rumbling of a nation on the march and the grumbling of the people as they complain about the food, water, and leadership. Mutiny against Moses and Aaron is avoided when God provides the miracle of Aaron’s budding staff. In addition, the Levites are reaffirmed in their service in the tabernacle, and the sacrifice of the red cow provides a constant source of cleansing from the ever-present defilement of death. Yet, the grumbling continues. In a moment of anger, Moses does the right thing (bringing forth water) in the wrong way (striking the rock instead of speaking to it like God told him to do), thereby forfeiting his privilege to set foot in the promised land.

Your Daily Walk

Imagine for a moment that God has told you that you will no longer be permitted to hold down a paying job or own property. Instead, you are to spend your full time in His service, and your compensation will be whatever your countrymen give to the Lord. Would that comfort you or concern you?

According to 18:20–21, those were basically God’s instructions to Aaron and his descendants. Your local church today is in many ways a faith ministry like the priesthood of Aaron. You, like the Israelites, have been commanded to support the work of the Lord so God can be magnified in your community. Which word best describes your giving habits to your church: a comfort or a concern to those ministering to you? Now read Acts 20:35 and enjoy a blessing this week.

Insight - A Family That Never Set Foot in Canaan

Neither Moses, his sister Miriam, nor his brother Aaron ever enjoyed the blessings of the promised land. Chapter 20 details the fate of each of these three family members. Can you discover the circumstances surrounding the death or fate of...

• Miriam? (20:1)
• Moses? (20:7–13)
• Aaron? (20:22–29)

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January 16

Genesis 45–47

Joseph’s Family and His Famine Plan

Key Passage: Genesis 45

Overview

Joseph, no longer able to maintain the masquerade, reveals his true identity to his terrified brothers. Though they fear revenge, Joseph understands God’s purpose behind the earlier events in his life and rejoices that he is the one to reunite and sustain the family. And so the entire Jewish nation (70 in number) moves to Goshen, which will be their home for the next 400 years.

Your Daily Walk

Ask Christians for their favorite Bible personality, and chances are many will say Joseph. Perhaps it’s because Joseph had experiences that nearly everyone identifies with: misunderstanding, mistreatment, unexplainable circumstances, seemingly unanswered prayers, examples of doing the right thing that turns out all wrong.

When reading the life of Joseph, it is hard to escape the truth that God never wastes energy in the lives of His children. What He allowed to come into your life yesterday has helped to prepare you for today, and what today brings will better equip you for tomorrow.

Joseph’s life might easily have been labeled a sustained tragedy, except for one fact: “It was not you [brothers] who sent me here, but God” (45:8). Fortified with that knowledge, Joseph could face each new day with expectation instead of exasperation. Is that your attitude? Take a recent “accident” you or a loved one may have suffered, and acknowledge before God that you know He will use it as a stretching, maturing incident in His sovereign plan for you.

Insight - Famine and Flight—They Seem to Go Together

Three times in the Book of Genesis, God uses a famine to teach His children a lesson, and twice the nation of Egypt is involved. Who was affected by each famine? Where did they go to avoid it?

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January 17

Genesis 48–50

Final Days of Jacob and Joseph

Key Passage: Genesis 50

Overview

In contrast to his hectic early years, the last 17 years of Jacob’s life in Egypt are peaceful ones. Prior to his death, he gives special blessing to the sons of Joseph. And on his deathbed, Jacob prophesies the destinies of his own sons and their descendants, specifying Judah as the next link in the Messianic line of promise (49:10). The embalmed remains of Jacob are buried, in accordance with his wishes, at Machpelah. Genesis closes with the death of Joseph who charges, in faith, that his bones be returned to the land of promise when God sees fit once again to visit His chosen people.

Your Daily Walk

“I know what you are going to say. You are going to tell me I must forgive him. Well, I just don’t think I can.” Words can’t do justice to the pain experienced by one who has been betrayed. But the blow that does the greatest damage is one that comes from a brother. It’s so unfair. Worse yet, it’s unchristian. Still it happens. And you need to be able to cope with it and emerge stronger because of it.

How many Christians do you know who are poisoned by bitterness? Are you one of them? Take a careful look at Joseph and his experiences. Injustice? Repeatedly. Opportunity for revenge? Certainly. Bitterness? None. Why? Because Joseph was convinced that God’s hand directed his life. He had an inner assurance that God would bring good out of his circumstances—if he remained faithful and patient.

Genesis 50:20 is the key to turning bitterness into blessing in your own walk with God. Don’t end your devotional time today until you, like Joseph, can say from the heart, “God intended it for good.” If there is someone you are harboring bitterness against, don’t let the sun go down before you have asked for forgiveness.

Insight - The First Shall Be Last

Though Joseph occupies the place of prominence in the latter chapters of Genesis, the prophecy of 49:10 is a reminder that the tribe of Judah (not Joseph) stands in the Messianic line.

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Exodus

As Genesis closes, the Jews are living in the favor of the Pharaoh of Egypt. But following the death of Joseph, “A new king, who did not know about Joseph, came to power in Egypt” (Exodus 1:8), and the nation of Israel becomes a nation of slaves. Exodus is the story of their deliverance. In the first half (chapters 1–18), God calls Moses to declare judgment upon Pharaoh and to lead Israel’s long trek to the promised land. In chapters 19–40, God educates His people in the responsibilities of holy living.

January 18

Exodus 1-2

Israel’s Bondage and Moses’ Birth

Key Passage: Exodus 1:8–2:10

Overview

As Jacob’s descendants continue to multiply and prosper in Goshen, they pose a growing threat to the new Egyptian ruler. His plan to kill all the newborn Hebrew boys is thwarted by the courageous midwives, and the child Moses is saved. Destined to become the deliverer of God’s people, Moses enjoys the finest education in Pharaoh’s court. But when he seeks to deliver Israel in his own time and way, Moses finds himself fleeing for his life to the desert of Midian. There he spends the next 40 years tending sheep and awaiting God’s instructions for freeing His people.

Your Daily Walk

Where are you currently enrolled in God’s “School of Patience”? Put a check mark next to the classroom where you are learning the most right now about bearing up under difficult circumstances:

Moses learned patience in the desert as he tended sheep. Unknown to him, God was using those years as part of a tailor-made program to prepare Moses for shepherding a much larger flock—the emerging nation of Israel. Only when Moses was truly ready did God appear to him in the burning bush and send him back to Egypt.

God’s patience-building process may seem slow to you; but remember, your response is all-important. How fast are you learning the lessons you need to master in order to be ready for greater service when He calls? Complete this prayer: “Dear Lord, because I know You want to use me in a significant way, please help me to learn the lesson in patience You have set before me today as I __________.”

Insight - A Deadly Plot to Destroy God’s People
Pharaoh’s plot to kill all newborn Hebrew males not only would have curtailed the rapid growth of the Israelites, but would have later encouraged intermarriage between Hebrew women and Egyptian men, thereby causing the people of Israel to lose their national identity.

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January 19

Exodus 3-6

Moses’ Call and Credentials

Key Passage: Exodus 3; 5:1–6:13

Overview

With his long period of desert exile drawing to a close, Moses receives God’s call to lead the people out of bondage. When confronted by God in the burning bush, Moses is far from convinced he is the right man for the job. But once his objections have been answered, Moses goes to confront Pharaoh, armed with supernatural signs. True to God’s prediction, Pharaoh not only refuses to let the people go, but increases their labors as well. As the people react with anger, God responds with assurance that His nation will indeed be redeemed.

Your Daily Walk

Put yourself in Moses’ sandals. You have been sent by God to deliver a people who have groaned under the burden of slavery for centuries. Upon your arrival, you encounter their oppressor, Pharaoh, and deliver the message God gave you. But instead of making things better, you only make them worse! You watch helplessly as Pharaoh increases the burden on your countrymen. What is your response?

Probably you’d do the same as Moses did: cry out to God in frustration. Perhaps you have been in Moses’ sandals before, if you experienced the failure of a project you attempted for God. If so, God’s fresh revelation of Himself—who He is, what He has done in the past, and what He promises to do in the future—should be as much of an encouragement to you as it was to Moses. God’s promises are grounded in God’s character. That’s all Moses needed to know.

The same never-changing God who sustained a discouraged shepherd can do the same for you in difficult times. Search the Internet for some faith-building missionary stories or listen to some praise music composed by those who learned firsthand that God is faithful. Their God is your God—and He never changes!

Insight - Take Away the Stubble and You’ve Got Trouble

Bricks made with straw are very strong, because chemicals released by the decomposing straw make the clay more pliable and homogeneous.

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January 20/21

Exodus 7-10

First Nine Plagues in Egypt

Key Passage: Exodus 7

Overview

When a person will not obey God willingly, God will often bring to bear circumstances that force him to obey God unwillingly. Such is the case with the reluctant Pharaoh of Egypt. God sends a series of nine national calamities involving insects, disease, and the forces of nature in order to impress His power and identity upon Pharaoh. Rebelliously, Pharaoh repeatedly refuses to honor his promises to release the people. The stage is set for the tenth and climactic plague.

Your Daily Walk

Darkness and hail, locusts and flies, frogs and blood—what possible connection could there be between these plagues? Did God have a reason for selecting those particular calamities? Why didn’t He use high taxes, air pollution, inflation, “chariot recalls”—you know, the kinds of things we wrestle with today?

The key is found in 12:12: “I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt.” Every plague represented an attack on an object of worship in Egypt: the Nile River, the sun god Re, the frog-goddess Haqt, the fly-god Uatchit, the protector-god Seth (who supposedly kept away locusts), the Pharaoh himself. The Egyptians had forsaken the Creator and in His place substituted the creation. So God used 10 “visual aids” to turn their eyes (and their worship) back to Him.

That raises a question: If God brought 10 plagues upon objects of worship in our land today, what might He use? Is there any evidence that He is doing precisely that? If so, what should our response be in the light of Pharaoh’s sad experience?

Insight - If You Thought Yesterday’s Plague Was Bad...

Each succeeding plague was more intense and severe than its predecessor. The first four plagues produced only discomfort. The fifth brought death to the cattle; the sixth produced physical pain; the seventh and eighth brought economic chaos; the ninth induced mental and emotional panic; and the tenth brought death to every Egyptian household.

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January 22

Exodus 11-12

Tenth Plague, Passover, and Exodus

Key Passage: Exodus 12:1–28

Overview

Nine devastating plagues, and still Pharaoh will not budge. But the tenth and last plague, the slaying of the firstborn (both of man and animal) in every Egyptian household brings about the long-awaited deliverance of Israel. To escape the terrible judgment on the firstborn male, each Israelite household observes the Passover by substituting the death of a lamb for the death of a person. With no further resistance from Pharaoh, all Israel begins its exodus from Egypt.

Your Daily Walk

Death is never pleasant. Multiple deaths are considered disasters. So imagine the national impact when at least one member of each family in Egypt died overnight. But it was all necessary to prove to a stubborn Pharaoh that there is one true God. Deliverance for the Israelites came through faith in the blood applied to their doorposts.

Centuries later, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, gave His life to free humanity from bondage to sin. The question remains: Has His blood been applied to the doorposts of your heart? If so, thank God again for the suffering Jesus endured for you. If not, what better time than right now to pray: “Jesus, thank You for Your death on the cross. I receive You as my Redeemer from sin and as my Passover Lamb.”

Insight - Christ, Our Passover Lamb

Notice how the details of the Passover parallel the events surround- ing the death of Christ.

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January 23

Exodus 13-15

Crossing the Red Sea

Key Passage: Exodus 13:17–14:31

Overview

Delivering the people from Egyptian bondage is only the first step in God’s plan to bring the Israelites to the promised land of Canaan. Many obstacles lie ahead. Pharaoh, whose heart is again hardened, sends his armies in pursuit of Moses and the people. Trapped between the Red Sea and the rapidly approaching chariots of Egypt, the people cry out in desperation—and God answers in a miraculous fashion. The Red Sea parts, the nation crosses over on dry ground, and shouts of panic turn to songs of praise as the Egyptian army disappears in a watery grave.

Your Daily Walk

Little children don’t always know what’s best for them. If you don’t believe that, just turn a child loose in an unfenced yard near a busy intersection or leave your medicine cabinet unlocked. No, children don’t have the wisdom of adults. That’s why God provides parents: to help children survive to adulthood.

When the Israelites left Egypt, they were like a large band of children, not knowing what was best for them. But, like a loving father, God provided guidance, protection, food, water, and instruction to teach them how to enjoy a “grown-up” relationship with Him. Patiently and thoroughly God showed them what it meant to rely on Him in every facet of life, to depend upon His daily provision.

Has God placed you in a wilderness situation? Remember, you are there to learn a lesson in trusting God. Attach a safety pin to your lapel or collar today as a reminder of your dependence upon the Father. (It might even give you an opportunity to witness!)

Insight - What Color Is the Red Sea?

The Red Sea is a narrow body of water that stretches in a southeasterly direction from Suez to the Gulf of Aden for about l,300 miles. Surprisingly enough, the Red Sea is usually bright turquoise in color. However, algae grow in the water periodically. When they die, the sea becomes reddish-brown, thus giving it the name Red Sea.

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January 24

Exodus 16-18

Israel’s Journey to Mount Sinai

Key Passage: Exodus 16:1–17:7

Overview

When Israel left Egypt, there were two things the people could do well: make bricks and complain. They now develop the latter ability to a fine art. As supplies decrease, complaints increase. When their resources run out, God supplies manna, quail, and water in abundance to demonstrate that He is now their reliable source of supply. Israel fights (and wins) its first military battle. And Moses, following the advice of his father-in-law, delegates some of his responsibilities to 70 capable assistants.

Your Daily Walk

Start with a basic, two-door car loaded with luggage. Add a father, mother, and three children under the age of 10. Aim the car at a destination 500 miles down the road. After 350 miles have passed, examine the scene. What shape is the “traveling circus” in now?

Magnify that basic situation 600,000 times over, move it back some 3,500 years, and you begin to understand Moses’ predicament in Exodus 16. The thrill of freedom and the excitement of the exodus were soon erased by the discomforts of travel. Gratitude gave way to grumbling during the long desert trek.

Are you inclined to complain when things don’t go as you think they should? Moses’ words to Israel are timeless: “You are not grumbling against us, but against the Lord” (16:8).

One of the best indicators of your love for God is a contented spirit that expresses itself in thanksgiving. Write a thank-you note to God for some of the blessings you may take for granted: health, peace, family, friends, employment, personal freedoms. Then mail it to yourself. In a day or two, you’ll be twice blessed to read it again.

Insight - What’s on the Menu?

Though God faithfully provided manna for 40 years, it should not be assumed that manna was the sum total of Israel’s diet. They took numerous herds and flocks out of Egypt (12:38; 17:3), and they were able to buy other food and water along the way (Deuteronomy 2:6–7).

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January 25

Exodus 19-20

Receiving the Ten Commandments

Key Passage: Exodus 20:1–17

Overview

For the first time in four centuries, the Israelites are free to worship and walk with their holy God. But how do they approach God? What are His righteous demands? At Mount Sinai, Moses prepares the people to receive the Commandments, a body of law which they promise to obey—even before it is delivered! After two days of purification, the nation witnesses an awesome display of God’s majesty as He descends in a thick cloud to deliver the Ten Commandments, the broad moral principles that will guide the new nation and set it apart from its pagan neighbors.

Your Daily Walk

What is missing in the following story? A brain surgeon is at home planting a garden when he receives word that an emergency case needs his immediate attention. He jumps in his car, drives to the hospital, strides into the operating room, and immediately begins to operate.

Two items are clearly missing: (1) the all-important step of scrubbing up before the surgery, and (2) the name of a good lawyer to handle the almost certain malpractice suit.

Just as a doctor must scrub up before surgery, so must the Christian “scrub up” before entering the presence of a holy God in worship and prayer. The Israelites participated in symbolic acts of cleansing (19:10) in preparation for God’s descent on Mount Sinai. The same God who desired purity from the Israelites requires pure hearts from those who approach Him today (Psalm 66:18; 1 John 1:9).

Is any unconfessed sin soiling your relationship with God and keeping you from close fellowship with Him? Talk to Him about that right now. Then put a small bar of soap by your Bible to remind you of the importance of scrubbing up regularly in your walk with God.

Insight - When It Comes to God’s Law, Take It Personally!

Though the law was designed to govern the conduct of a nation, Exodus 20 uses you (singular) showing that the character of a nation depends upon the proper conduct of its citizens.

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January 26

Exodus 21-24

Israel’s Civil and Ceremonial Laws

Key Passage: Exodus 24

Overview

At Mount Sinai God delivers to Israel’s leader not just the Ten Commandments, but also an extensive body of civil and ceremonial laws designed to regulate all aspects of Israel’s life. The section you will read today contains the civil and social regulations that comprise “the Book of the Covenant” (24:7). Levites and priests, offerings and feasts, services and sacrifices—all are dealt with in meticulous detail. After receiving assurances from the people, “We will do everything the Lord has said; we will obey” (24:7), Moses returns to the mountain, where for 40 more days he receives additional instructions from the Lord.

Your Daily Walk

What does the Bible have to say about television? How about Sunday football? Where would you turn in your Bible to find day-care centers discussed? Or movies? Or smoking? Or rock music? Or recreation vehicles? Or where to move?

If you go to your Bible expecting a detailed answer for every situation you encounter today, you will come away disappointed and discouraged. Even the seemingly exhaustive regulations of chapters 20–23 leave as much unsaid as they say. But where God has seen fit not to provide particulars (either in Moses’ day or in ours), He has supplied principles that help us to determine His mind in every situation. His Word, though ancient, is always relevant!

Prove it to yourself. Build on the list of today’s activities from today’s opening paragraph of “Your Daily Walk.” Can you suggest a principle from your reading of chapters 20–23 that will help you determine your level of participation in each of those activities? (Caution: Sunday football might be addressed more than once!)

Insight - The Mosaic Law, Expanded Version

In Exodus 20:1–17 God gives the law in summary fashion, and in 20:22–23:19 He provides a detailed amplification. In the first section, God lays down broad moral principles; in the second, He gives specific applications of those principles to everyday life.

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January 27/28

Exodus 25-27

Blueprint for the Tabernacle

Key Passage: Exodus 26

Overview

What exactly was it that took Moses 40 days to write down while on Mount Sinai? As you read today’s section (and the chapters that follow), you will discover the answer. Moses is receiving from God the detailed blueprint for the “church in the wilderness”—the tabernacle which would be Israel’s place of worship. In minute detail Moses learns about the furnishings, coverings, curtains, and courtyard. Everything is to be built “according to the plan shown you on the mountain” (26:30). The description moves from the inside out, reflecting not the perspective of man looking in, but of God looking out. True religion originates with a holy God.

Your Daily Walk

Put down this devotional guide. Close your eyes. Visualize the living room in your house, and make a mental list of every piece of furniture and decorative item in it. Now can you do the same with the furniture in the tabernacle? (Hint: There are four pieces inside and two outside.) Can you recall the function of each? More important, can you identify one picture that each piece suggests regarding the person and work of Jesus Christ, who came to “tabernacle” with men and women forever? (If you have time, reading Hebrews 8–10 will make the tabernacle unforgettable!)

Insight - Arrangement of the Tabernacle

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January 29

Exodus 28-31

Instructions for the Priests

Key Passage: Exodus 28

Overview

After describing the place of worship (the tabernacle), Moses goes on to detail the people of worship (the priests, Israel’s representatives before God). Everything about them is special, from the clothing they wear to the elaborate rituals they perform in leading the worship of the nation. Both they and the implements of worship they use require special purification, as befitting those in the service of a holy God. Even the builders who are selected to follow the divine blueprint for the tabernacle are hand-picked by God for their skill and Spirit-filled craftsmanship.

Your Daily Walk

Apart from the symbolism found in the tabernacle, its foremost significance was this: The tabernacle represented God come to dwell among men and women, the beacon of God’s presence among His people. In addition, the priest’s role was to act as a go-between, a bridge-builder, someone who could stand on behalf of sinful humanity before a holy God.

In the New Testament there is a beautiful blending of these two themes. Where does God dwell today? He continues to dwell among people. How has He seen fit to do this? By indwelling those who have turned their lives over to Him (1 Corinthians 6:19). And whom has He called to be priests today, bringing sinful people back to their holy God? The very ones He indwells (1 Peter 2:9). You are both the tabernacle God indwells and the priest God empowers to call men and women back to Himself.

If God were to give you the privilege of building a “gospel bridge” into someone’s life today, would you be willing?

Insight - And Don’t Forget the Sabbath Day

The commandment concerning the Sabbath had already been given in the Law. Yet this fourth commandment is mentioned again in conjunction with instructions for the workmen (31:12–17). God had commissioned the people to a sacred work. How easy it would have been for them to imagine that in doing this work they might dispense with the Sabbath observance. God’s work must be done in His way.

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January 30

Exodus 32-34

Israel’s Idolatry and Moses’ Intercession

Key Passage: Exodus 32

Overview

While Moses receives God’s laws on the mountain, the Israelites are busy on the plains below. Concluding that their leader has died in the presence of God, they fashion their gold jewelry into a replica of an Egyptian god and turn the camp into a grotesque pagan party. Moses returns and in righteous anger shatters the two stone tablets, destroys the golden calf, and orders the Levites to purge the camp of the guilty Israelites. But though the newly adopted covenant between God and His people has been shattered (as illustrated in the two broken tablets), repentance and restoration are only a prayer away.

Your Daily Walk

Could it be the golden calf episode (chapter 32) is also a 15th-century B.C. parable of a 21st-century A.D. phenomenon?

With assurances of the nation’s obedience and love (24:7), Moses left to be with God on the mountain. Almost as soon as he left, false worship and gross wickedness replaced the flimsy promises that the people had made. Though their lips vowed allegiance, their hearts were far from God. And as soon as their leader departed, the people’s true character emerged.

In the same way, the church’s Leader has gone to be with God for a time, leaving His church behind to carry out His commands. But worldliness, sin, idolatry, and preoccupation have dimmed His final words to “go...preach the good news” (Mark 16:15). Prayerfully ask the Lord to show you any idolatry in your life.

Insight - Reflecting God to the Nation (34:29–35)

Moses remained on Mount Sinai 40 days longer (34:28), receiving additional instructions from the Lord, and again God carved the Ten Commandments onto tablets of stone. When Moses returned to the camp, it was impossible for him to conceal the fact that he had been in the presence of the Lord. His face made that clear. Today your task is the same: to reflect the glory of Jesus Christ to others around you.

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January 31

Exodus 35-40

Tabernacle Erected and Occupied by God

Key Passage: Exodus 36, 40

Overview

The Book of Exodus closes with the record of how the tabernacle and priestly garments are completed exactly as God instructed. The people donate the materials, and the chosen artisans do the work. Moses inspects the finished product, the furnishings are set in place, and Aaron and his sons are anointed for God’s service. Finally, God declares His satisfaction by filling the tent with His glory. For the next 480 years, the tabernacle will remain the focal point of the nation’s worship.

Your Daily Walk

Today you will complete your first month of this year’s journey through the Bible. But today’s reading will require extra discipline. You have already read much of this material before—in chapters 25–28. There Moses set forth the plan for constructing the tabernacle. Now in chapters 36–39 you’ll study the execution of that plan as Moses’ instructions are carried out to the letter, making the tabernacle a reality.

But don’t miss the point. The requirement was 100 percent compliance. It’s like baking a cake. Follow the recipe, and you get a delicious dessert; omit some ingredients or instructions, and you get a culinary catastrophe. When it comes to holiness or obedience, halfway measures will not do. You are not to love the Lord with most of your heart or a portion of your soul.

As you carefully read through these last chapters of Exodus, ask God to reveal any areas in your life where you have become half-hearted or sloppy. The ongoing construction of your life as God’s temple demands no less care than the building of Israel’s tabernacle, if your life is to radiate His glory and bear witness of His name to the community around you.

Insight - What Do You Do with Too Much Gold?

In view of the fact that the weight of the precious metals used in building the tabernacle ran into the tons (38:24–29), it is an even greater marvel that the budget for this building project was exceeded by the donations (36:3–7).

Take The First Step

Congratulations! You’ve started the new year the right way by beginning a journey through the Bible with this devotional guide.

But every walk demands a first step. Have you taken the crucial first step in the Christian life...the step of faith unto salvation? Unless you take that step, your so-called relationship with God will meander aimlessly, and your path will lead only to frustration and defeat. But take this mandatory step, and your walk with Jesus will be vibrant and fulfilling—for all eternity.

Consider these stepping stones on the salvation path:

1. All people are sinners.
   “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
2. The penalty for sin is death.
   “For the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
3. Deliverance from eternal death—salvation—comes by personal trust in God’s Son, Jesus.
   “By grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Jesus paid the price on the cross for all of your sins so that you might have eternal life. By believing in His death, burial, and resurrection on your behalf, you enter into an eternal relationship with God. “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Free salvation awaits you!

If you want to speak to someone about a relationship with Jesus, call 863-859-6000, email Pastor Craig, or text 863-400-1226!

January

Genesis

Genesis chronicles the beginning of both secular and sacred history, and introduces key events and people God uses to shape those beginnings. It is the story of the one true God whose word creates a world, and whose watchful care determines humanity’s destiny. Roughly one-fifth of the book (chapters 1–11) traces primeval history from creation to about 2000 B.C. The remaining four-fifths (chapters 12–50) details the family history of Abraham and covers about 350 years.

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January 1

Genesis 1–2

Beginning of the Human Race

Key Passage: Genesis 2:4–25

Overview

The opening chapters of Genesis focus on God’s creative activity in forming the heavens and the earth. Chapter 1 provides a diary of the six days of God’s work as He speaks the universe into existence and arranges its parts into a unified whole. The chapter closes with the creation of Adam and Eve, who are commanded to subdue the earth and rule it. Chapter 2 takes the brief account of their creation and enlarges it into a full-length portrait. The emphasis throughout is on God’s unique relationship to Adam and Eve as the ones who bear His image and exercise dominion over the rest of His creation.

Your Daily Walk

What do you think of when you hear, “The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground” (2:7)? Does that reminder encourage you or discourage you?

It should encourage you, as long as you remember, that God has not forgotten the material He used to design your body. Because God created you, He knows exactly what you can handle physically and emotionally. The psalmist said: “He knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust” (Psalm 103:14). God knows your abilities and liabilities, and He has given you all the time and strength you need to accomplish His will for you.

Look at your calendar; notice the activities you have for the first week of the new year. Does the list look impossible? Write these words at the top of the page: “I have all the time I need to do all that God intends for me to do in 2024.” Make it your New Year’s resolution to use your time and strength to His glory.

Insight - Genesis: The Book of Beginnings

Genesis is the indispensable introduction to the entire Bible. The name Genesis is taken from the title given to it by the Greek version (Septuagint) and is derived from the heading of its 10 parts, ho biblos geneseos. In the Hebrew Bible, the title is B’reshit (“In the beginning”).

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January 2

Genesis 3–5

Beginning of Sin and Death

Key Passage: Genesis 3

Overview

Deception, disobedience, death, destruction. The beginning of sin and its shattering effects on the first human beings, their world, and all their offspring are charted in chapters 3 and 4. Sin gives birth to death in a continuous downward spiral as seen in the rebellious family tree of Cain and in the repeated refrain throughout the line of Seth, “...then he died.” But shining through in the midst of this dismal picture is a ray of hope—the promise of the coming Head-Striker (3:15).

Your Daily Walk

An official-looking individual approaches you on the street and asks, “In your opinion, what are the five most common pressures of daily life in your city?” How would you respond?

Deadlines. Expectations. Workload. Grades. Productivity. Chores. Sales. Bills. They’re all synonyms for pressure.

Pressure can have many effects on you—some good, some bad. But if it remains strong enough long enough, pressure can weaken your resistance to temptation. It can even cause you to consider some “solutions” to the temptation problem that normally would be out of the question, such as: “Just once can’t hurt... Other Christians are doing it, so why can’t I?... There’s nothing wrong with just experimenting... How will I know what it’s like if I never try it?... If God loved me, He wouldn’t limit my freedom.”

The question, “Did God really say...?” (3:1) is the grandfather of all lies. The fire is worse than the frying pan. Where is your pressure point today? Once you’ve identified it, count on two things to be true: (1) Satan knows your weak point and will trip you up if you let him; (2) God knows your weak point and will fortify you against Satan’s attacks if you’ll let Him.

Insight - Name That Tune

The oldest recorded song in the Bible is found in Genesis 4:23–24. Its composer, Lamech, has the distinction of being the “father of polygamy.” The lyrics boast of man’s lust for violence and his disregard for human life.

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January 3

Genesis 6–9

Judgment of the Flood

Key Passage: Genesis 6

Overview

The sinfulness of human beings has become so great that God prepares to sweep away the human race in a judgment of water. He selects Noah, a righteous man with an unwavering faith in God, and commands him to build a ship in which he and his family will escape the flood. Obediently, Noah begins the 100-year task of constructing the ark. When the flood arrives on schedule, Noah and his family are preserved, while the rest of the human race perishes in its unbelief. Once again, humanity enjoys a fresh start on the earth.

Your Daily Walk

Doesn’t it make you feel good when someone remembers you on a special occasion, or for no particular reason at all? It’s a great encouragement to get a phone call or an email from a friend that says, “Thinking of you today.” Perhaps your only regret is that such warm reminders are too few and far between.

Genesis 8:1 makes a crucial observation concerning Noah. It says simply, “God remembered Noah.” That is significant because God’s memory isn’t like that of humans. He hadn’t lost track of Noah in the midst of the flood, or misplaced His timetable for Noah’s rescue. God never forgot Noah, and when the time was right He ended the flood and brought Noah safely to dry land. To say that God remembers is to say that He never forgets.

Just as God did not forget Noah in the flood, so He has not brought you to this point in your life merely to abandon you in the midst of your circumstances. God remembers you. Read thoughtfully Psalm 139:7–10. Then with that confidence in mind, complete this phrase: “Because God remembers me, today I will remember Him by...”

Insight - Eight Souls Were Saved (Count Them)

Only the believing Noah and his family were saved from the flood. Three times they are mentioned as a specific group (6:18; 7:13; 8:16) to show that not one faithful person is overlooked in God’s provision of safety.

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January 4

Genesis 10–11

Judgment at the Tower

Key Passage: Genesis 11:1–9, 27–32

Overview

After the flood, Noah’s descendants multiply and begin to repopulate the earth. But in defiance of God’s command to disperse throughout the world (9:7), they decide to settle in one central locality. God judges their rebellion by garbling their language and forcing them to scatter over the earth as He had originally commanded. Clearly the effects of sin have survived the purging waters of the flood. From this point on, the narrative focuses on one man (Abram) and his descendants (the Hebrew people) through whom God would provide a Redeemer from humanity’s sinful condition.

Your Daily Walk

So far in your reading of Genesis you have encountered three illustrations of the same factor at work in the relationship of men and women to God.

1. Adam and Eve were given the garden of Eden to enjoy with only one prohibition, yet they sinned and lost their Paradise.
2. The generations that followed them continued in their rebellion and were swept away in the flood.
3. Noah’s descendants refused to spread out as God had commanded, and so they suffered the confusion of their language.

Have you discovered the principle illustrated by these three case studies in human stubbornness? Obedience to God brings blessing; disobedience results in judgment. God is serious about His commands. They are not given simply to be studied or debated, copied or cataloged. Rather, they are in your Bible to be obeyed—instantly, completely, unquestioningly. Pick an area of your walk with God where you have been halfhearted or negligent in your obedience. Then tell God what you have learned from the examples of Adam, Noah, and Babylon.

Insight - Those Confusing Lingua Francas

The effects of God’s confusion of language are being felt right up to the present time. The Chippewa Indians of North America have more than 6,000 different verb forms, while the Eskimo language uses 63 forms of the present tense alone!

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January 5

Genesis 12–14

Abram’s Calling and Lot’s Compromise

Key Passage: Genesis 12:1–9

Overview
The life of Abram is a study in walking by faith. Called to leave his home in Ur (near the Persian Gulf), Abram receives exciting promises from God involving a new home, a great name, and a large family (12:1–3). Abram takes God at His word and begins the long journey to his new place of blessing. Along the way he experiences detours where his faith wavers, engages in disputes with his worldly nephew Lot, and faces discouragements in his attempts to have a family. But through it all, Abram’s faith shines brightly, showing that in him God has found a man truly deserving of the title, “God’s friend” (James 2:23).

Your Daily Walk
It has been well said, “Every great person has first learned how to obey, whom to obey, and when to obey.” Abram was truly great, both by human and divine estimations (12:2–3). But his greatness as a servant of God began with God’s command, “Leave your country” (12:1), and Abram’s obedient response, “So Abram left” (12:4). It was a call to forsake all and strike out on a venture of faith, with nothing to hold onto but the promises of God.

Consider what that meant to Abram. In Ur he left behind material wealth, an advanced civilization, good farming land, friends and family, and all that he had learned to call home. For what? A 1,000-mile journey through a hostile environment to an unknown land with nothing but a promise awaiting him at the end of the trip.

Abram exercised faith in God by moving; Noah did so by building a boat; Abel by offering a lamb. How about you? Read Hebrews 11:4–8 twice. In the margin write a step of obedience God is calling you to take today—and then by faith take it!

Insight - The True Test of Values
Lot’s choice of the entire Jordan valley was the beginning of his downfall, for it caused him to pitch his tent near the wicked city of Sodom. By contrast, Abram built his life on the promises of God. Lot chose for himself (13:11); Abram allowed God to choose for him (13:14–15).

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January 6 & 7

Genesis 15–17

Faith and the Failure of Abram

Key Passage: Genesis 15:1–16:6

Overview
God’s promises to Abram are now reaffirmed in the covenant which God makes with His faithful servant. The provisions include the promise that Abram’s own son would be his heir, even though he and Sarai are childless and beyond childbearing years. Abram weakens under the pressure of passing time and yields to Sarai’s suggestion. The result is the birth of Ishmael, a son whom God also promises to bless but who is clearly not the son of God’s promise. Despite his act of presumption, Abram receives a new sign of God’s faithfulness (circumcision) and a new name (Abraham, “father of many nations”).

Your Daily Walk
Obedience can take many forms. Sometimes the obedient thing is to sit still, as when Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem (Acts 1:4). More often, obedience demands action. Noah picked up a hammer and saw (Genesis 6:14, 22); Moses climbed a mountain to bring back God’s words on two stone tablets (Exodus 24:12); Joshua led the nation on a seven-day hike around Jericho (Joshua 6:1–21), all in obedience to the word of the Lord.

The same was true in the life of Abraham. In chapter 15, he obediently arranges the pieces of the sacrifice by which God ratified His covenant; in chapter 17, he carries out the responsibility of circumcising his entire household according to God’s command. While these acts of faith may not seem very spectacular, they become highly significant when performed in obedience to the Lord’s direction.

What is God calling you to do today? It may be something as simple as writing a letter or visiting a shut-in, sharing a kind word or preparing a favorite dessert. Be obedient in the ordinary details of life, for that is the path of blessing.

Insight - Abraham, the First “Hebrew” in the Bible (14:13)
The origin of the word Hebrew is unclear. Perhaps it means “a descendant of Eber” or “one from the other side (of the river).” In Abram’s case, it might refer to his migration from Mesopotamia.

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January 8

Genesis 18–20

Sodom’s Doom and Sarah’s Deliverance

Key Passage: Genesis 18

Overview

Three angelic visitors arrive bearing bittersweet news for Abraham. Within a year Sarah would give birth to a son (Isaac); within a matter of days Sodom would be destroyed. Abraham, knowing his nephew Lot resides there, pleads for God’s mercy and receives assurances that the city would not be destroyed if even a handful of righteous people remained there. But the situation is even worse than Abraham imagines, and Sodom is reduced to ashes. Lot and his two daughters narrowly escape, though their grudging departure is mirrored in the longing backward glance of Lot’s wife.

Your Daily Walk

Chapters 14 and 18 have much in common. In both chapters Abraham’s nephew, Lot, is in trouble, and Abraham expresses a godly concern for the welfare of Lot. But can you find the one striking difference?

In chapter 14, when Abraham heard the news about Lot’s capture, he immediately went to war. Arming his 318-man militia, he headed out to do battle with the enemy. And God blessed his rescue attempt.

In chapter 18, when Abraham heard the news about Sodom’s imminent destruction, he immediately went to prayer. Wrestling with God for the safety of Lot’s family, Abraham received assurances that the city would not be destroyed if a handful of righteous people remained. And God blessed his intercession.

What if Abraham had prayed when he should have done battle, and had battled when he should have been interceding? Examine your own battles and prayers to be sure you haven’t rushed ahead of God...or lagged behind!

Insight - A Postscript on Sodom (19:24–25)

Two early historians, Strabo (first century B.C.) and Tacitus (first century A.D.), both testify to severe odors, asphalt seepages, and a general burned complexion in the terrain south of the Dead Sea. According to Tacitus, this area was “once fertile and the site of great cities, but...the very ground looks burned and has lost its fertility.”

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January 9

Genesis 21–24

Isaac’s Birth and Sarah’s Death

Key Passage: Genesis 21:1–8; 22:1–19

Overview

After more than 20 years of watching and waiting, the faith of Abraham and Sarah is rewarded in the birth of an heir. Isaac (“laughter”), whose prophesied birth was greeted with a laugh (18:12), now brings laughter and joy to the hearts of his elderly parents. That joy is later threatened by Abraham’s severest test—the command to sacrifice Isaac as a burnt offering to God. Abraham obeys, thereby learning yet another lesson about God’s faithfulness. Sarah, who has seen her son rise to manhood, does not live to see his joyous marriage to Rebekah.

Your Daily Walk

You know you’re growing older when...
...you know all the answers but nobody asks you the questions.
...you sink your teeth into a steak and they stay there.
...all the names in your contacts list end in M.D.

When you get to chapter 21 after reading about the many adventures of Abraham, you may be surprised to learn that he is already 100 years old. Yet the most important and productive years of his life are still ahead. Before he dies at the age of 175 (25:7–8), Abraham will father at least eight children, face his severest test on Mount Moriah (22:2), and arrange for a godly wife for Isaac. Clearly, being a senior citizen didn’t alter Abraham’s zeal for God. Neither should it for you.

No matter our age, God still has a plan for our lives. He can still use us for His glory, for His kingdom. Ask Him what you can do for Him today.

Insight - A Costly Exchange for Ishmael

In Abraham’s day a son by a slave woman could legally exchange his inheritance for his freedom. Sarah’s statement in 21:10 shows that she was trying to force Ishmael to exercise that right. “The matter distressed Abraham greatly because it concerned his son” (21:11). Which son? The answer is not given, for Abraham loved them both.

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January 10

Genesis 25–26

Isaac’s Family and Career

Key Passage: Genesis 25:19–26:5

Overview

God’s blessing on Isaac’s life is clearly visible in the brief two-chapter narrative you will read today. Isaac, like his father Abraham, is the husband of a barren wife, but in response to Isaac’s prayer God gives him twin sons. Like Abraham, Isaac walks in faith and obedience to God. And, unfortunately, like Abraham, Isaac demonstrates in his dispute with Abimelech that a father’s example can be bad as well as good.

Your Daily Walk

If you’ve ever questioned whether the life of the parent influences the conduct of the child, today’s passage should put those doubts to rest. God makes it clear in 26:3, 5, and 24 that Abraham left a legacy of faith and obedience for his son Isaac and for future generations. But the Book of Genesis paints a realistic picture of Abraham: his life and walk with God, while exemplary, were far from ideal. However, God used Abraham’s life, in spite of failure, to make a spiritual mark upon countless generations to come.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to leave behind such an example of godliness for your descendants? Sounds like a tall order, doesn’t it? But the good news is that you can start building that legacy today. It’s as true today as it was in the days of Abraham: A life of faith and obedience is fashioned from the building blocks of daily decisions. Choice, not chance, determines your destiny—and also influences the destiny of those who follow.

In the next 24 hours, you will make decisions that affect many lives: your own, those you love, and those unborn. Ask God for wisdom and strength to make each choice in light of eternal values.

Insight - A Crowded Burial Cave

Abraham was buried in the cave of Machpelah near Mamre, which he had bought as the burial place for his wife, Sarah (23:9). And, although Jacob died in Egypt, his body was embalmed and he was buried in the same cave (Genesis 50:13). Isaac is also believed to have been buried there.

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January 11

Genesis 27–31

Schemes and Labors of Jacob

Key Passage: Genesis 27, 31

Overview

A conflict between twins that began in the womb carries over into the adult lives of Esau and Jacob. After following Rebekah’s plan to trick Isaac into giving the patriarchal blessing to him rather than to Esau, Jacob flees to Haran for safety. In route, he receives assurance from God in a dream that he is indeed the heir of the covenant promises. In Haran he is out-tricked by his own uncle, Laban, and after 20 frustrating years, returns to Canaan with four wives, eleven sons, one daughter, and considerable wealth.

Your Daily Walk

An unsaved spouse, a rebellious teenager, a stubborn friend. If only you could open their eyes to the truth. If only you could get them to respond the way they should. Perhaps you’ve even said to yourself, “I’d give anything to have that person change his ways.” Did you ever stop to think that there’s a wrong way to accomplish the right thing?

Jacob always got what he went after: birthright, blessing, wife, herds. But he paid a high price: alienation from father and brother, dissension in his own home, bitterness toward his in-laws, and continual anxiety. Sadly, he could have possessed everything he connived to get and could have enjoyed fellowship with God—if he had just been willing to take God at His word (25:23; 28:12–15).

Manipulation has no place in God’s program. Where are you tempted to pull strings and push buttons? Do your assigned part instead: love, pray, wait, trust. And let God do His part. Put a button or a piece of string in your Bible as a “bookmark” to remind you again tomorrow just whose job is whose.

Insight - The Children of Israel

Throughout Scripture, God’s chosen people are called “the sons of Israel” and “the house of Jacob.” They could not bear the name of Jacob’s father or grandfather, for the Ishmaelites lay equal claim to descent from Abraham, and the Edomites were sons of Isaac. But the 12 tribes that identified themselves as “Israel” were the only descendants of Jacob.

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Introduction to the Pentateuch

The Old Testament chronicles the creation of humanity and the emergence of Israel as a nation of God. Although human beings were created perfect, they disobeyed God’s will and rebelled. The rest of Scripture records God’s ceaseless efforts to restore and reconcile the human race to Himself.

The story of God’s relationship with humanity begins in the first five books of the Old Testament, called the Torah in Hebrew or the Pentateuch, from the Greek, penta, “five,” and teuchos, “scroll.”

These five books fit together into an integrated whole. Genesis pictures the inception of the nation Israel. Exodus portrays the redemption of that nation from bondage in Egypt. Leviticus describes the fellowship God desires to enjoy with Israel. Numbers records God’s testing of the nation. And Deuteronomy is a repetition of the Law of God to the new generation of Israelites.

January 12

Genesis 32–36

Jacob’s Encounters and Esau’s Descendants

Key Passage: Genesis 32

Overview

Before Jacob can be reconciled to Esau, he first must be reconciled to God. After sending his family and possessions across the ford of Jabbok, Jacob wrestles with the angel of God. At last he receives the blessing for which he has struggled, along with two permanent reminders of the encounter: a new name, Israel (“he struggled with God”), and a permanent limp. An emotional reunion with Esau is followed by a divine confirmation of promises previously made to Abraham and Isaac regarding a large posterity and an eternal inheritance.

Your Daily Walk

Put yourself in Jacob’s sandals for a moment. Years before, you parted company with your brother because he threatened to kill you. Now you hear he is headed your way, accompanied by 400 men. What do you conclude? (a) “My brother is coming to pay a social call.” (b) “My brother is coming to make things right.” (c) “My brother is coming to kill me!”

At last, after perhaps 60 years of scheming and conniving, Jacob had come to the end of himself. For the first time in his life he realized that he desperately needed God. His prayer life showed it (32:9–12); his wrestling with God showed it (32:24–26). In response to Jacob’s earnest searching and struggling, God broke his self-will, transformed his deceitful heart, and provided the birthright blessing Jacob had tried so long to buy or steal.

Are you wrestling with God over control of an area of your life that has yet to come under His lordship? Your thought life? Television viewing habits? Internet use? Social life? Finances? Don’t wait until God has to bring you to the end of yourself before you yield that area to His loving control.

Insight - Three Spiritual Milestones in Jacob’s Life

Three times Jacob encountered the God of his forefathers. At Haran he was redirected by God (31:1–16); at Peniel he was restored by God (32:24–32); at Bethel he was reassured by God (35:1–15).

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January 13/14

Genesis 37–40

Joseph’s Trials and Triumph in Egypt

Key Passage: Genesis 37, 39–40

Overview

Today you will read about the fourth patriarch in the Genesis account—Joseph, the most-favored son of Jacob. His popularity with his father and frankness with his brothers result in estrangement and adversity. In a fit of jealousy his brothers sell him to a passing caravan. But God’s hand is evident in Joseph’s life; and despite his unjust imprisonment in Egypt, God prepares him to save the emerging nation of Israel. His faith and integrity stand in stark contrast to the shameful behavior of his brother Judah (chapter 38).

Your Daily Walk

“Lord, get me out of this mess!”

If you have ever prayed that frantic prayer, then you’ll enjoy the story of Joseph’s life. When you, like Joseph, find yourself tangled in the web of adversity, chances are your first reaction is to look for an escape route. Joseph must have been tempted to pray that one-line prayer on many occasions after he found himself in Egypt, enslaved and alone. He could have used his circumstances as an excuse for bitterness, depression, and revenge. But through it all, “The Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did” (39:23). Joseph’s steadfastness under pressure uniquely molded him for future usefulness as Egypt’s prime minister.

Where are you experiencing the molding force of pressure today, and how are you reacting to it? Are you looking for the nearest exit? Or are you asking God to shape you into a vessel for greater service? Think about a faith-stretching ordeal you are presently experiencing. What is one positive change God is making in your life as a result of your trial? Write it in the margin, along with the words of Genesis 39:23. Then relax in the knowledge that God is at work.

Insight - Good and Getting Better All the Time

Many a eulogy begins with the words, “He was a good man.” But Joseph is one of the few characters in the pages of Scripture about whom nothing negative or evil is ever said. Can you find a quality from his life that is also true of yours today?

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Joseph in the Old, Jesus in the New

In many ways, Joseph foreshadows the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Notice the many similarities between the two.

January 15

Genesis 41–44

Pharaoh’s Dreams and Joseph’s Promotion

Key Passage: Genesis 41

Overview

Joseph, who has been faithful to God while an obscure prisoner, now experiences an incredible rise to power in Egypt. A difficult dream sent by God to Pharaoh jars the memory of the chief butler, and Joseph is promoted from prisoner to prime minister because of his God-given insight. God’s revelation of a worldwide famine prompts Pharaoh to give Joseph oversight of all the affairs of Egypt. When the famine reaches Canaan, Joseph’s brothers begin a series of trips to Egypt to buy food. There they are confronted with the truth of their carefully concealed crime.

Your Daily Walk

It is one thing to have convictions. It is something else again to be convicted for your convictions! And yet the Bible is filled with stories of men and women who took their faith in God so seriously that they were willing to be imprisoned—and even martyred—for what they believed. Joseph, Jeremiah, Daniel, Peter, John, Paul, and a host of unnamed saints in the Believers’ Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11:36) spent time behind bars because of their uncompromising stand for God. Add to that the persecuted Christians of the rest of history, and you have an impressive army of “Convicts for Christ.”

When was the last time you prayed for your brothers and sisters in Christ who are experiencing imprisonment, torture, and even martyrdom for their faith?

Close your quiet time by praying for a modern-day Joseph. Only eternity will tell what great things God has done through the lives of imprisoned saints and impassioned intercessors.

Insight - The Brother Who Was Not (42:13)

When Joseph’s brothers were questioned about themselves, they replied, “Your servants were twelve brothers...one is no more.” They were evidently conscious of their guilt. Though it had been many years since they had sold Joseph into slavery, it seems that the memory of the wrong they had done had continued to haunt them.

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