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An Example of God’s Love

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 1st.

1 Thessalonians 2:5-9 5 For neither at any time were we found using words of flattery, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness, God is witness; 6 nor seeking glory of men, neither from you nor from others, when we might have claimed authority as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle in the midst of you, as when a nurse cherisheth her own children: 8 even so, being affectionately desirous of you, we were well pleased to impart unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were become very dear to us. 9 For ye remember, brethren, our labor and travail: working night and day, that we might not burden any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

Our society is confused about the meaning of love. Much of what is portrayed in movies and television could more accurately be described as lust or infatuation. It’s often based on self-satisfaction rather than the principles of God’s Word. This is in direct contrast to the way the Lord calls us to live—by allowing the Holy Spirit rather than our natural inclinations to control us.

The apostle Paul wrote a wonderful description of love in 1 Corinthians 13 Chapter 13 1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have `the gift of' prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And if I bestow all my goods to feed `the poor', and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profiteth me nothing. 4 Love suffereth long, `and' is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil; 6 rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth; 7 beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Love never faileth: but whether `there be' prophecies, they shall be done away; whether `there be' tongues, they shall cease; whether `there be' knowledge, it shall be done away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; 10 but when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child: now that I am become a man, I have put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know fully even as also I was fully known. 13 But now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; and the greatest of these is love. , and in today’s passage, we see that these concepts were not mere words to him. Paul actually demonstrated this kind of love by the way he interacted with the believers in Thessalonica. His love was given …

Freely (1 Thess. 2:5). Paul offered the Thessalonians what they needed most—the gospel, which could save their souls. Furthermore, he didn’t preach for profit or try to manipulate the people with flattery.

Humbly (1 Thess. 2:6). His goal was their salvation and God’s glory, not personal gain.

Unselfishly (1 Thess. 2:7). Paul’s service to these believers was as selfless as a nursing mother’s tender care for her baby.

Affectionately (1 Thess. 2:8). His love was also very personal and warm. He didn’t just give them the gospel; he gave them himself.

Sacrificially (1 Thess. 2:9). Paul willingly suffered hardship and worked long hours so he wouldn’t be a financial burden to them.

We are to show love to others in a way that stands in stark contrast to the type of love promoted by our culture. It is to be offered willingly, without thought of convenience, cost, or what might be gained.

Bible in One Year: Psalms 112-118 Chapter 112 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Blessed is the man that feareth Jehovah, That delighteth greatly in his commandments. 2 His seed shall be mighty upon earth: The generation of the upright shall be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house; And his righteousness endureth for ever. 4 Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: `He is' gracious, and merciful, and righteous. 5 Well is it with the man that dealeth graciously and lendeth; He shall maintain his cause in judgment. 6 For he shall never be moved; The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance. 7 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: His heart is fixed, trusting in Jehovah. 8 His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, Until he see `his desire' upon his adversaries. 9 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the needy; His righteousness endureth for ever: His horn shall be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: The desire of the wicked shall perish. Chapter 113 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Praise, O ye servants of Jehovah, Praise the name of Jehovah. 2 Blessed be the name of Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. 3 From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same Jehovah's name is to be praised. 4 Jehovah is high above all nations, And his glory above the heavens. 5 Who is like unto Jehovah our God, That hath his seat on high, 6 That humbleth himself to behold `The things that are' in heaven and in the earth? 7 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, And lifteth up the needy from the dunghill; 8 That he may set him with princes, Even with the princes of his people. 9 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, `And to be' a joyful mother of children. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 114 1 When Israel went forth out of Egypt, The house of Jacob from a people of strange language; 2 Judah became his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. 3 The sea saw it, and fled; The Jordan was driven back. 4 The mountains skipped like rams, The little hills like lambs. 5 What aileth thee, O thou sea, that thou fleest? Thou Jordan, that thou turnest back? 6 Ye mountains, that ye skip like rams; Ye little hills, like lambs? 7 Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, At the presence of the God of Jacob, 8 Who turned the rock into a pool of water, The flint into a fountain of waters. Chapter 115 1 Not unto us, O Jehovah, not unto us, But unto thy name give glory, For thy lovingkindness, and for thy truth's sake. 2 Wherefore should the nations say, Where is now their God? 3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he pleased. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, The work of men's hands. 5 They have mouths, but they speak not; Eyes have they, but they see not; 6 They have ears, but they hear not; Noses have they, but they smell not; 7 They have hands, but they handle not; Feet have they, but they walk not; Neither speak they through their throat. 8 They that make them shall be like unto them; Yea, every one that trusteth in them. 9 O Israel, trust thou in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 10 O house of Aaron, trust ye in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 11 Ye that fear Jehovah, trust in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 12 Jehovah hath been mindful of us; he will bless `us': He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. 13 He will bless them that fear Jehovah, Both small and great. 14 Jehovah increase you more and more, You and your children. 15 Blessed are ye of Jehovah, Who made heaven and earth. 16 The heavens are the heavens of Jehovah; But the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not Jehovah, Neither any that go down into silence; 18 But we will bless Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 116 1 I love Jehovah, because he heareth My voice and my supplications. 2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, Therefore will I call `upon him' as long as I live. 3 The cords of death compassed me, And the pains of Sheol gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. 4 Then called I upon the name of Jehovah: O Jehovah, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. 5 Gracious is Jehovah, and righteous; Yea, our God is merciful. 6 Jehovah preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he saved me. 7 Return unto thy rest, O my soul; For Jehovah hath dealt bountifully with thee. 8 For thou hast delivered my soul from death, Mine eyes from tears, `And' my feet from falling. 9 I will walk before Jehovah In the land of the living. 10 I believe, for I will speak: I was greatly afflicted: 11 I said in my haste, All men are liars. 12 What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me? 13 I will take the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of Jehovah. 14 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in the sight of Jehovah Is the death of his saints. 16 O Jehovah, truly I am thy servant: I am thy servant, the son of thy handmaid; Thou hast loosed my bonds. 17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of Jehovah. 18 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people, 19 In the courts of Jehovah's house, In the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 117 1 O praise Jehovah, all ye nations; Laud him, all ye peoples. 2 For his lovingkindness is great toward us; And the truth of Jehovah `endureth' for ever. Praise ye Jehovah. Psalm 118 Chapter 118 1 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 2 Let Israel now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 4 Let them now that fear Jehovah say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 5 Out of my distress I called upon Jehovah: Jehovah answered me `and set me' in a large place. 6 Jehovah is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me? 7 Jehovah is on my side among them that help me: Therefore shall I see `my desire' upon them that hate me. 8 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in princes. 10 All nations compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 11 They compassed me about; yea, they compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 12 They compassed me about like bees; They are quenched as the fire of thorns: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 13 Thou didst thrust sore at me that I might fall; But Jehovah helped me. 14 Jehovah is my strength and song; And he is become my salvation. 15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 16 The right hand of Jehovah is exalted: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 17 I shall not die, but live, And declare the works of Jehovah. 18 Jehovah hath chastened me sore; But he hath not given me over unto death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will enter into them, I will give thanks unto Jehovah. 20 This is the gate of Jehovah; The righteous shall enter into it. 21 I will give thanks unto thee; for thou hast answered me, And art become my salvation. 22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner. 23 This is Jehovah's doing; It is marvellous in our eyes. 24 This is the day which Jehovah hath made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, we beseech thee, O Jehovah: O Jehovah, we beseech thee, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of Jehovah: We have blessed you out of the house of Jehovah. 27 Jehovah is God, and he hath given us light: Bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. 28 Thou art my God, and I will give thanks unto thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever.

Put On a Heart of Compassion

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 1st.

Colossians 3:12-14 12 Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering; 13 forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye: 14 and above all these things `put on' love, which is the bond of perfectness.

Have you ever noticed that some people are more naturally compassionate than others? Maybe it’s their personality or upbringing. Nevertheless, in the church, every believer is told to “put on a heart of compassion” (Col. 3:12). When empathy doesn’t come naturally, some Christians may wonder if something is wrong with them. So, what can we do to develop a greater sense of caring?

While emotions cannot be manufactured on demand, we can change our thoughts, which in turn affect our emotions. Compassion, like all the other qualities listed in today’s passage, is possible only when we think of others before ourselves. Self-centeredness keeps us from seeing the needs and hurts of those around us and acting on their behalf. What we need is a renewed mind.

We are all born with a selfish, sinful nature, referred to as the “old self.” But when a person puts his trust in Jesus, he receives a “new self” created in righteousness by God. (See Eph. 4:22-24.) As our minds are renewed with His Word and we grow in obedience, Christ’s love and compassion begin to flow through us. Instead of our being oblivious to the pain and suffering around us, God will open our eyes and use us to comfort those in need.

A heart of compassion is achieved not through self-effort but through a God-focused life. As we draw near to Him through His Word and His Son, He transforms our focus, thoughts, and feelings. What a relief to know that God has provided everything we need to follow Jesus’ example of caring. He always equips us to obey His every command.

Bible in One Year: Psalms 112-118 Chapter 112 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Blessed is the man that feareth Jehovah, That delighteth greatly in his commandments. 2 His seed shall be mighty upon earth: The generation of the upright shall be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house; And his righteousness endureth for ever. 4 Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: `He is' gracious, and merciful, and righteous. 5 Well is it with the man that dealeth graciously and lendeth; He shall maintain his cause in judgment. 6 For he shall never be moved; The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance. 7 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: His heart is fixed, trusting in Jehovah. 8 His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, Until he see `his desire' upon his adversaries. 9 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the needy; His righteousness endureth for ever: His horn shall be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: The desire of the wicked shall perish. Chapter 113 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Praise, O ye servants of Jehovah, Praise the name of Jehovah. 2 Blessed be the name of Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. 3 From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same Jehovah's name is to be praised. 4 Jehovah is high above all nations, And his glory above the heavens. 5 Who is like unto Jehovah our God, That hath his seat on high, 6 That humbleth himself to behold `The things that are' in heaven and in the earth? 7 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, And lifteth up the needy from the dunghill; 8 That he may set him with princes, Even with the princes of his people. 9 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, `And to be' a joyful mother of children. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 114 1 When Israel went forth out of Egypt, The house of Jacob from a people of strange language; 2 Judah became his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. 3 The sea saw it, and fled; The Jordan was driven back. 4 The mountains skipped like rams, The little hills like lambs. 5 What aileth thee, O thou sea, that thou fleest? Thou Jordan, that thou turnest back? 6 Ye mountains, that ye skip like rams; Ye little hills, like lambs? 7 Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, At the presence of the God of Jacob, 8 Who turned the rock into a pool of water, The flint into a fountain of waters. Chapter 115 1 Not unto us, O Jehovah, not unto us, But unto thy name give glory, For thy lovingkindness, and for thy truth's sake. 2 Wherefore should the nations say, Where is now their God? 3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he pleased. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, The work of men's hands. 5 They have mouths, but they speak not; Eyes have they, but they see not; 6 They have ears, but they hear not; Noses have they, but they smell not; 7 They have hands, but they handle not; Feet have they, but they walk not; Neither speak they through their throat. 8 They that make them shall be like unto them; Yea, every one that trusteth in them. 9 O Israel, trust thou in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 10 O house of Aaron, trust ye in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 11 Ye that fear Jehovah, trust in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 12 Jehovah hath been mindful of us; he will bless `us': He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. 13 He will bless them that fear Jehovah, Both small and great. 14 Jehovah increase you more and more, You and your children. 15 Blessed are ye of Jehovah, Who made heaven and earth. 16 The heavens are the heavens of Jehovah; But the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not Jehovah, Neither any that go down into silence; 18 But we will bless Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 116 1 I love Jehovah, because he heareth My voice and my supplications. 2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, Therefore will I call `upon him' as long as I live. 3 The cords of death compassed me, And the pains of Sheol gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. 4 Then called I upon the name of Jehovah: O Jehovah, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. 5 Gracious is Jehovah, and righteous; Yea, our God is merciful. 6 Jehovah preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he saved me. 7 Return unto thy rest, O my soul; For Jehovah hath dealt bountifully with thee. 8 For thou hast delivered my soul from death, Mine eyes from tears, `And' my feet from falling. 9 I will walk before Jehovah In the land of the living. 10 I believe, for I will speak: I was greatly afflicted: 11 I said in my haste, All men are liars. 12 What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me? 13 I will take the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of Jehovah. 14 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in the sight of Jehovah Is the death of his saints. 16 O Jehovah, truly I am thy servant: I am thy servant, the son of thy handmaid; Thou hast loosed my bonds. 17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of Jehovah. 18 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people, 19 In the courts of Jehovah's house, In the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 117 1 O praise Jehovah, all ye nations; Laud him, all ye peoples. 2 For his lovingkindness is great toward us; And the truth of Jehovah `endureth' for ever. Praise ye Jehovah. Psalm 118 Chapter 118 1 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 2 Let Israel now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 4 Let them now that fear Jehovah say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 5 Out of my distress I called upon Jehovah: Jehovah answered me `and set me' in a large place. 6 Jehovah is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me? 7 Jehovah is on my side among them that help me: Therefore shall I see `my desire' upon them that hate me. 8 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in princes. 10 All nations compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 11 They compassed me about; yea, they compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 12 They compassed me about like bees; They are quenched as the fire of thorns: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 13 Thou didst thrust sore at me that I might fall; But Jehovah helped me. 14 Jehovah is my strength and song; And he is become my salvation. 15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 16 The right hand of Jehovah is exalted: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 17 I shall not die, but live, And declare the works of Jehovah. 18 Jehovah hath chastened me sore; But he hath not given me over unto death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will enter into them, I will give thanks unto Jehovah. 20 This is the gate of Jehovah; The righteous shall enter into it. 21 I will give thanks unto thee; for thou hast answered me, And art become my salvation. 22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner. 23 This is Jehovah's doing; It is marvellous in our eyes. 24 This is the day which Jehovah hath made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, we beseech thee, O Jehovah: O Jehovah, we beseech thee, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of Jehovah: We have blessed you out of the house of Jehovah. 27 Jehovah is God, and he hath given us light: Bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. 28 Thou art my God, and I will give thanks unto thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever.

A Mighty Servant of God

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 2nd.

Ephesians 4:17-24 17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye no longer walk as the Gentiles also walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 being darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardening of their heart; 19 who being past feeling gave themselves up to lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But ye did not so learn Christ; 21 if so be that ye heard him, and were taught in him, even as truth is in Jesus: 22 that ye put away, as concerning your former manner of life, the old man, that waxeth corrupt after the lusts of deceit; 23 and that ye be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and put on the new man, that after God hath been created in righteousness and holiness of truth.

To become God’s mighty servants, we must decide whether we will base our life on His priorities or the world’s. The two are incompatible.

Before salvation, people typically live according to whatever the flesh desires, indulging themselves with food, entertainment, and material goods. Promoting self-gratification, our culture maintains that everyone is the center of his own universe and can decide what is right for himself.

Scripture teaches the opposite: to put God above all else and “regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Matt. 6:33; Phil. 2:3). So how do we give God top priority? Jesus says it means loving Him wholeheartedly, denying ourselves, and following Him (Matt. 16:24; Matt. 22:37-39). That includes generosity. Instead of encouraging us to acquire money and possessions, He teaches that giving brings far more blessings than receiving ( Acts 20:35 35 In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. ).

How can we know we are becoming spiritually stronger? First, we’ll be less attracted to the ungodly practices of our world and will yearn to be more like Jesus. Next, we will start replacing ungodly habits with activities that please the Lord. Then, we’ll begin to comprehend some of the deeper biblical truths and apply them in our life. Finally, our spiritual discernment will improve. With the Spirit’s help, we will more easily recognize unrighteous ideas and behavior.

Do you want to become mighty in spirit? If so, spend time in the Scriptures learning what is important to God. Then ask Him to transform you into the person He has designed you to be.

Bible In One Year: Psalms 112-118 Chapter 112 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Blessed is the man that feareth Jehovah, That delighteth greatly in his commandments. 2 His seed shall be mighty upon earth: The generation of the upright shall be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in his house; And his righteousness endureth for ever. 4 Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: `He is' gracious, and merciful, and righteous. 5 Well is it with the man that dealeth graciously and lendeth; He shall maintain his cause in judgment. 6 For he shall never be moved; The righteous shall be had in everlasting remembrance. 7 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: His heart is fixed, trusting in Jehovah. 8 His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, Until he see `his desire' upon his adversaries. 9 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the needy; His righteousness endureth for ever: His horn shall be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; He shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: The desire of the wicked shall perish. Chapter 113 1 Praise ye Jehovah. Praise, O ye servants of Jehovah, Praise the name of Jehovah. 2 Blessed be the name of Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. 3 From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same Jehovah's name is to be praised. 4 Jehovah is high above all nations, And his glory above the heavens. 5 Who is like unto Jehovah our God, That hath his seat on high, 6 That humbleth himself to behold `The things that are' in heaven and in the earth? 7 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, And lifteth up the needy from the dunghill; 8 That he may set him with princes, Even with the princes of his people. 9 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, `And to be' a joyful mother of children. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 114 1 When Israel went forth out of Egypt, The house of Jacob from a people of strange language; 2 Judah became his sanctuary, Israel his dominion. 3 The sea saw it, and fled; The Jordan was driven back. 4 The mountains skipped like rams, The little hills like lambs. 5 What aileth thee, O thou sea, that thou fleest? Thou Jordan, that thou turnest back? 6 Ye mountains, that ye skip like rams; Ye little hills, like lambs? 7 Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord, At the presence of the God of Jacob, 8 Who turned the rock into a pool of water, The flint into a fountain of waters. Chapter 115 1 Not unto us, O Jehovah, not unto us, But unto thy name give glory, For thy lovingkindness, and for thy truth's sake. 2 Wherefore should the nations say, Where is now their God? 3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he pleased. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, The work of men's hands. 5 They have mouths, but they speak not; Eyes have they, but they see not; 6 They have ears, but they hear not; Noses have they, but they smell not; 7 They have hands, but they handle not; Feet have they, but they walk not; Neither speak they through their throat. 8 They that make them shall be like unto them; Yea, every one that trusteth in them. 9 O Israel, trust thou in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 10 O house of Aaron, trust ye in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 11 Ye that fear Jehovah, trust in Jehovah: He is their help and their shield. 12 Jehovah hath been mindful of us; he will bless `us': He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. 13 He will bless them that fear Jehovah, Both small and great. 14 Jehovah increase you more and more, You and your children. 15 Blessed are ye of Jehovah, Who made heaven and earth. 16 The heavens are the heavens of Jehovah; But the earth hath he given to the children of men. 17 The dead praise not Jehovah, Neither any that go down into silence; 18 But we will bless Jehovah From this time forth and for evermore. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 116 1 I love Jehovah, because he heareth My voice and my supplications. 2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, Therefore will I call `upon him' as long as I live. 3 The cords of death compassed me, And the pains of Sheol gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. 4 Then called I upon the name of Jehovah: O Jehovah, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. 5 Gracious is Jehovah, and righteous; Yea, our God is merciful. 6 Jehovah preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he saved me. 7 Return unto thy rest, O my soul; For Jehovah hath dealt bountifully with thee. 8 For thou hast delivered my soul from death, Mine eyes from tears, `And' my feet from falling. 9 I will walk before Jehovah In the land of the living. 10 I believe, for I will speak: I was greatly afflicted: 11 I said in my haste, All men are liars. 12 What shall I render unto Jehovah For all his benefits toward me? 13 I will take the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of Jehovah. 14 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in the sight of Jehovah Is the death of his saints. 16 O Jehovah, truly I am thy servant: I am thy servant, the son of thy handmaid; Thou hast loosed my bonds. 17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of Jehovah. 18 I will pay my vows unto Jehovah, Yea, in the presence of all his people, 19 In the courts of Jehovah's house, In the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye Jehovah. Chapter 117 1 O praise Jehovah, all ye nations; Laud him, all ye peoples. 2 For his lovingkindness is great toward us; And the truth of Jehovah `endureth' for ever. Praise ye Jehovah. Psalm 118 Chapter 118 1 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 2 Let Israel now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 4 Let them now that fear Jehovah say, That his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever. 5 Out of my distress I called upon Jehovah: Jehovah answered me `and set me' in a large place. 6 Jehovah is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me? 7 Jehovah is on my side among them that help me: Therefore shall I see `my desire' upon them that hate me. 8 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to take refuge in Jehovah Than to put confidence in princes. 10 All nations compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 11 They compassed me about; yea, they compassed me about: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 12 They compassed me about like bees; They are quenched as the fire of thorns: In the name of Jehovah I will cut them off. 13 Thou didst thrust sore at me that I might fall; But Jehovah helped me. 14 Jehovah is my strength and song; And he is become my salvation. 15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 16 The right hand of Jehovah is exalted: The right hand of Jehovah doeth valiantly. 17 I shall not die, but live, And declare the works of Jehovah. 18 Jehovah hath chastened me sore; But he hath not given me over unto death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will enter into them, I will give thanks unto Jehovah. 20 This is the gate of Jehovah; The righteous shall enter into it. 21 I will give thanks unto thee; for thou hast answered me, And art become my salvation. 22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner. 23 This is Jehovah's doing; It is marvellous in our eyes. 24 This is the day which Jehovah hath made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, we beseech thee, O Jehovah: O Jehovah, we beseech thee, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of Jehovah: We have blessed you out of the house of Jehovah. 27 Jehovah is God, and he hath given us light: Bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. 28 Thou art my God, and I will give thanks unto thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for he is good; For his lovingkindness `endureth' for ever.

Daily Bible - July 2

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 2nd.

Reading for Today:

1 Chronicles 28:1 Chapter 28 1 And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that served the king by course, and the captains of thousands, and the captains of hundreds, and the rulers over all the substance and possessions of the king and of his sons, with the officers, and the mighty men, even all the mighty men of valor, unto Jerusalem. –29:30
Psalms 78:67-72 67 Moreover he refused the tent of Joseph, And chose not the tribe of Ephraim, 68 But chose the tribe of Judah, The mount Zion which he loved. 69 And he built his sanctuary like the heights, Like the earth which he hath established for ever. 70 He chose David also his servant, And took him from the sheepfolds: 71 From following the ewes that have their young he brought him, To be the shepherd of Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. 72 So he was their shepherd according to the integrity of his heart, And guided them by the skilfulness of his hands. Psalm 79 A Psalm of Asaph.
Proverbs 20:6-7 6 Most men will proclaim every one his own kindness; But a faithful man who can find? 7 A righteous man that walketh in his integrity, Blessed are his children after him.
Acts 10:24-48 24 And on the morrow they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius was waiting for them, having called together his kinsmen and his near friends. 25 And when it came to pass that Peter entered, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. 26 But Peter raised him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. 27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and findeth many come together: 28 and he said unto them, Ye yourselves know how it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to join himself or come unto one of another nation; and `yet' unto me hath God showed that I should not call any man common or unclean: 29 wherefore also I came without gainsaying, when I was sent for. I ask therefore with what intent ye sent for me. 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago, until this hour, I was keeping the ninth hour of prayer in my house; and behold, a man stood before me in bright apparel, 31 and saith, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call unto thee Simon, who is surnamed Peter; he lodgeth in the house of Simon a tanner, by the sea side. 33 Forthwith therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore we are all here present in the sight of God, to hear all things that have been commanded thee of the Lord. 34 And Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him. 36 The word which he sent unto the children of Israel, preaching good tidings of peace by Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all.) -- 37 that saying ye yourselves know, which was published throughout all Judaea, beginning from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 `even' Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the country of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom also they slew, hanging him on a tree. 40 Him God raised up the third day, and gave him to be made manifest, 41 not to all the people, but unto witnesses that were chosen before of God, `even' to us, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he charged us to preach unto the people, and to testify that this is he who is ordained of God `to be' the Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him bear all the prophets witness, that through his name every one that believeth on him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all them that heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision that believed were amazed, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid the water, that these should not be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Notes:

1 Chronicles 28:2 2 Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: as for me, it was in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of Jehovah, and for the footstool of our God; and I had made ready for the building. –8 For the assembly’s sake, David testified to the Davidic Covenant originally given by God to him in 2 Samuel 7 Chapter 7 1 And it came to pass, when the king dwelt in his house, and Jehovah had given him rest from all his enemies round about, 2 that the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains. 3 And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thy heart; for Jehovah is with thee. 4 And it came to pass the same night, that the word of Jehovah came unto Nathan, saying, 5 Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith Jehovah, Shalt thou build me a house for me to dwell in? 6 for I have not dwelt in a house since the day that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle. 7 In all places wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel, spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to be shepherd of my people Israel, saying, Why have ye not built me a house of cedar? 8 Now therefore thus shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith Jehovah of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, that thou shouldest be prince over my people, over Israel; 9 and I have been with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies from before thee; and I will make thee a great name, like unto the name of the great ones that are in the earth. 10 And I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in their own place, and be moved no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any more, as at the first, 11 and `as' from the day that I commanded judges to be over my people Israel; and I will cause thee to rest from all thine enemies. Moreover Jehovah telleth thee that Jehovah will make thee a house. 12 When thy days are fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, that shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever. 14 I will be his father, and he shall be my son: if he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men; 15 but my lovingkindness shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee. 16 And thy house and thy kingdom shall be made sure for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever. 17 According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David. 18 Then David the king went in, and sat before Jehovah; and he said, Who am I, O Lord Jehovah, and what is my house, that thou hast brought me thus far? 19 And this was yet a small thing in thine eyes, O Lord Jehovah; but thou hast spoken also of thy servant's house for a great while to come; and this `too' after the manner of men, O Lord Jehovah! 20 And what can David say more unto thee? for thou knowest thy servant, O Lord Jehovah. 21 For thy word's sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou wrought all this greatness, to make thy servant know it. 22 Wherefore thou art great, O Jehovah God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God besides thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 23 And what one nation in the earth is like thy people, even like Israel, whom God went to redeem unto himself for a people, and to make him a name, and to do great things for you, and terrible things for thy land, before thy people, whom thou redeemest to thee out of Egypt, `from' the nations and their gods? 24 And thou didst establish to thyself thy people Israel to be a people unto thee for ever; and thou, Jehovah, becamest their God. 25 And now, O Jehovah God, the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, confirm thou it for ever, and do as thou hast spoken. 26 And let thy name be magnified for ever, saying, Jehovah of hosts is God over Israel; and the house of thy servant David shall be established before thee. 27 For thou, O Jehovah of hosts, the God of Israel, hast revealed to thy servant, saying, I will build thee a house: therefore hath thy servant found in his heart to pray this prayer unto thee. 28 And now, O Lord Jehovah, thou art God, and thy words are truth, and thou hast promised this good thing unto thy servant: 29 now therefore let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may continue for ever before thee; for thou, O Lord Jehovah, hast spoken it: and with thy blessing let the house of thy servant be blessed for ever. (17:7–27; 22:6–16). David makes it clear that Solomon was God’s choice (v. 5) as had been frequently intimated (2 Sam. 12:24, 25; 1 Kin. 1:13), just as the coming Christ will be God’s chosen Son to ultimately fulfill the kingdom promise.

1 Chronicles 28:1 Chapter 28 1 And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that served the king by course, and the captains of thousands, and the captains of hundreds, and the rulers over all the substance and possessions of the king and of his sons, with the officers, and the mighty men, even all the mighty men of valor, unto Jerusalem. 9 in writing. David wrote down the plans under the Holy Spirit’s divine inspiration (non-canonical, written revelation). This divine privilege was much like that of Moses for the tabernacle (Ex. 25:9, 40; 27:8; Heb. 8:5).

1 Chronicles 28:2 2 Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: as for me, it was in my heart to build a house of rest for the ark of the covenant of Jehovah, and for the footstool of our God; and I had made ready for the building. 0, 21 Solomon’s associates in the building project were God, the owner and general contractor (28:20), plus the human workforce (28:21).

Acts 10:28 28 and he said unto them, Ye yourselves know how it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to join himself or come unto one of another nation; and `yet' unto me hath God showed that I should not call any man common or unclean: unlawful. Literally, “breaking a taboo.” Peter followed the Jewish standards and traditions his whole life. His comments reveal his acceptance of a new standard in which Jews no longer were to consider Gentiles profane.

Acts 10:34 God shows no partiality. Taught in both the Old Testament (Deut. 10:17; 2 Chr. 19:7; Job 34:19 19 That respecteth not the persons of princes, Nor regardeth the rich more than the poor; For they all are the work of his hands. ) and the New Testament (Rom. 2:11; 3:29, 30; James 2:1 Chapter 2 1 My brethren, hold not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, `the Lord' of glory, with respect of persons. ). The reality of this truth was taking on new dimensions for Peter.

Acts 10:36 preaching peace. Christ, by paying the price of sin through His sacrificial death, established peace between man and God (Rom. 5:1–11).

DAY 2: What does God desire in our giving?

King David called for consecrated giving to the building of the temple, based on his personal example of generosity (1 Chr. 29:3, 4). David gave his personal fortune to the temple building, a fortune almost immeasurable. He says that “over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house, my own special treasure of gold and silver: three thousand talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir.” Assuming a talent weighed about 75 pounds, this amounts to almost 112 tons of gold. This was held to be the purest and finest in the world ( Job 22:24 24 And lay thou `thy' treasure in the dust, And `the gold of' Ophir among the stones of the brooks; ; 28:16; Is. 13:12). Plus the 7,000 talents of silver, which would be 260 tons, the total worth of such precious metals has been estimated in the billions of dollars.

As he addresses the people, David notes the phrase “with a willing mind” (vv. 6–9). Here is the key to all freewill giving, i.e., giving what one desires to give. Tithes were required for taxation, to fund the theocracy, similar to taxation today. The law required that to be paid. This, however, is the voluntary giving from the heart to the Lord. The New Testament speaks of this ( Luke 6:38 38 give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, shall they give into your bosom. For with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you again. ; 2 Cor. 9:1–8) and never demands that a tithe be given to God, but that taxes be paid to one’s government (Rom. 13:6, 7). Paying taxes and giving God whatever one is willing to give, based on devotion to Him and His glory, is biblical giving.

The people rejoiced in their offering to the temple which was “five thousand talents…of gold” (1 Chr. 29:7).This amounts to 187 tons of gold. Add to that 375 tons of silver, 675 tons of bronze, and 3,750 tons of iron. The sum of all this is staggering and has been estimated into the billions of dollars. David responds to the phenomenal offering expressing amazing sacrifices of wealth with praise in which he acknowledges that all things belong to and come from God (vv. 10–15). David says that opportunities for giving to God are tests of the character, “test the heart,” of a believer’s devotion to the Lord (v. 17). The king acknowledges that the attitude of one’s heart is significantly more important than the amount of offering in one’s hand.

Additional Resources

July 2 - False Prophets Are Deceptive

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 2nd.

“‘Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves’” ( Matthew 7:15 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. ).

False prophets are most dangerous because of their deceptive nature. We can easily recognize and defend against an enemy that poses for what it is. But when that enemy appears as a friend, it is much harder to defend against.

Heretics and apostates make no claim to biblical truth and are recognizable. But deceivers disguise themselves as true shepherds. They give the appearance of orthodoxy and claim to teach the truth, but their intent is to deceive and destroy God’s people.

Paul explains this phenomenon: “Such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds” (2 Cor. 11:13–15; cf. 2 Tim. 3:13). Such false prophets are demonically deceived, convinced that their perverted, distorted views are correct. They are so steeped in falsehood that darkness seems to be light, blackness white, and error truth.

This calls for genuine discernment. But how is this best done? It’s by realizing that such men show themselves by what they do not say—they seldom affirm the great doctrines of the faith, but rather ignore them. In our day of confusion and indifference, we need to pray and vigilantly “test the spirits to see whether they are from God. . . . Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God” ( 1 John 4:1 Chapter 4 1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but prove the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. , 2).

Ask Yourself

What constitutes false teaching today? Why do such philosophies continue to find room to work in hearts and minds, even of believers? What can we do to keep them away from our churches?

Additional Resources

Is Assurance Objective or Subjective?

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 2nd.

“Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!” ( 2 Corinthians 13:5 5 Try your own selves, whether ye are in the faith; prove your own selves. Or know ye not as to your own selves, that Jesus Christ is in you? unless indeed ye be reprobate. ).

True believers will see the glory of Christ reflected in their lives when they examine the genuineness of their salvation.

Assurance of one’s salvation has been a key issue throughout the history of the church, especially the Reformers’ reaction to the Roman Catholic Church’s assertion that since salvation is a joint effort between man and God, the outcome is in doubt until the end. John Calvin, the leading sixteenth-century Reformer, taught that believers can and should be assured of their salvation. He made the grounds for assurance objective, urging believers to look to the promises in God’s Word to gain a sense of personal assurance.

Later Reformed theologians (including the seventeenth-century English Reformers known as Puritans), however, recognized that genuine Christians often lacked assurance. So they emphasized the need for practical evidences of salvation in a believer’s life. Thus they tended to emphasize a subjective means of establishing assurance, counseling people to examine their attitudes and actions for evidence of their election.

The question is: Should Christians derive assurance through the objective promises of Scripture or through subjective self-examination? The Bible teaches that both will lead to assurance. The objective basis for salvation is the finished work of Christ on our behalf, including the promises of Scripture (2 Cor. 1:20). The subjective support is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians, including His convicting and sanctifying ministries. Romans 15:4 4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that through patience and through comfort of the scriptures we might have hope. refers to both aspects of assurance: “Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance [subjective] and the encouragement of the Scriptures [objective] we might have hope.”

The Holy Spirit applies both grounds of assurance to believers: He “bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Rom. 8:16). Are you sure of your salvation? Ask yourself the objective question: “Do I believe?” If you truly believe, you can be sure you are saved ( John 3:16 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. ; Acts 16:31 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, thou and thy house. ). The subjective question is: “Is my faith real?” That’s why Paul said, “Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!” ( 2 Corinthians 13:5 5 Try your own selves, whether ye are in the faith; prove your own selves. Or know ye not as to your own selves, that Jesus Christ is in you? unless indeed ye be reprobate. ). Use the remaining days of this month as an opportunity to take the test.

Suggestions for Prayer

Ask God to reveal your true heart attitude toward Him. Make Psalms 139:23-24 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts; 24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 140 For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. your prayer.

For Further Study

Read 2 Corinthians 3:18 18 But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. .

How might this be considered part of Paul’s test?
What should true believers be looking for in their lives?

Additional Resources

Coming to Christ

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 2nd.

"Coming to [Christ] as to a living stone" (1 Pet. 2:4).

Jesus Christ is the source of every spiritual privilege.

Often Christians speak of salvation as "coming to Christ." That's an accurate, biblical description, for Jesus Himself said, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28); "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst" ( John 6:35 35 Jesus said unto them. I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall not hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ); "If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink" ( John 7:37 37 Now on the last day, the great `day' of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. ). Those are metaphors for salvation.

Coming to Christ initiates all your spiritual privileges because in Him God "granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness" (2 Pet. 1:3). Paul said, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ" (Eph. 1:3).

The Greek word translated "coming" in 1 Peter 2:4 4 unto whom coming, a living stone, rejected indeed of men, but with God elect, precious, conveys more than initially turning to Christ for salvation. It implies remaining with Him. In the Greek translation of the Old Testament it was used of those who drew near to God for ongoing worship. It was also used of Gentile proselytes—those who chose to identify themselves with God's people.

When you came to Christ, a permanent relationship of intimate personal communion was established. Before that, you were rebellious toward God, without hope, and alienated from God's promises. Now you've been born again to a living hope, you abide in Him and in His Word, and you have wonderful spiritual privileges.

Indeed, you are a privileged person, and the greatest of those privileges is your personal relationship with Christ Himself. Continue to draw near to Him today through prayer and worship.

Suggestions for Prayer

Tell Jesus how much you love Him and how you want your relationship with Him to be all it should be.

For Further Study

Read Ephesians 2:1-22 Chapter 2 1 And you `did he make alive,' when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins, 2 wherein ye once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powers of the air, of the spirit that now worketh in the sons of disobedience; 3 among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest:-- 4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly `places', in Christ Jesus: 7 that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus: 8 for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, `it is' the gift of God; 9 not of works, that no man should glory. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them. 11 Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands; 12 that ye were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye that once were far off are made nigh in the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who made both one, and brake down the middle wall of partition, 15 having abolished in the flesh the enmity, `even' the law of commandments `contained' in ordinances; that he might create in himself of the two one new man, `so' making peace; 16 and might reconcile them both in one body unto God through the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 and he came and preached peace to you that were far off, and peace to them that were nigh: 18 for through him we both have our access in one Spirit unto the Father. 19 So then ye are no more strangers and sojourners, but ye are fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, 20 being built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief corner stone; 21 in whom each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God in the Spirit. .

How did Paul describe our spiritual condition before salvation?
How are sinners reconciled to God?
What analogy did Paul use to describe our relationship as Christians to Jesus Christ?

Additional Resources

How Well Do You Know God?

Published by John Piper for reading on July 2nd.

“Behold, God is great, and we know him not; the number of his years is unsearchable.” ( Job 36:26 26 Behold, God is great, and we know him not; The number of his years is unsearchable. )

It is impossible to know God too well.

He is the most important person who exists. And this is because he made all others, and any importance they have is owing to him.

Any strength or intelligence or skill or beauty they have comes from him. On every scale of excellence, he is infinitely greater than the best person you ever knew or ever heard of.

Being infinite, he is inexhaustibly interesting. It is impossible, therefore, that God be boring. His continual demonstration of the most intelligent and interesting actions is volcanic.

As the source of every good pleasure, he himself pleases fully and finally. If that’s not how we experience him, we are either dead or sleeping.

It is therefore astonishing how little effort is put into knowing God.

It’s as though the President of the United States came to live with you for a month, and you only said hello in passing every day or so. Or as if you were flown at the speed of light for a couple of hours around the sun and the solar system, and instead of looking out the window, you played a computer game. Or as if you were invited to watch the best actors, singers, athletes, inventors, and scholars perform their best, but you declined to go so you could watch the TV season’s final soap.

Let us pray that our infinitely great God would open our eyes and hearts to see him and seek to know him more.

Morning Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon for July 2nd

Published by C.H. Spurgeon for reading on July 2nd.

Psalms 33:21 21 For our heart shall rejoice in him, Because we have trusted in his holy name.

BLESSED is the fact that Christians can rejoice even in the deepest distress; although trouble may surround them, they still sing; and, like many birds, they sing best in their cages. The waves may roll over them, but their souls soon rise to the surface and see the light of God's countenance; they have a buoyancy about them which keeps their head always above the water, and helps them to sing amid the tempest, "God is with me still." To whom shall the glory be given? Oh! to Jesus—it is all by Jesus. Trouble does not necessarily bring consolation with it to the believer, but the presence of the Son of God in the fiery furnace with him fills his heart with joy. He is sick and suffering, but Jesus visits him and makes his bed for him. He is dying, and the cold chilly waters of Jordan are gathering about him up to the neck, but Jesus puts His arms around him, and cries, "Fear not, beloved; to die is to be blessed; the waters of death have their fountain-head in heaven; they are not bitter, they are sweet as nectar, for they flow from the throne of God." As the departing saint wades through the stream, and the billows gather around him, and heart and flesh fail him, the same voice sounds in his ears, "Fear not; I am with thee; be not dismayed; I am thy God." As he nears the borders of the infinite unknown, and is almost affrighted to enter the realm of shades, Jesus says, "Fear not, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Thus strengthened and consoled, the believer is not afraid to die; nay, he is even willing to depart, for since he has seen Jesus as the morning star, he longs to gaze upon Him as the sun in his strength. Truly, the presence of Jesus is all the heaven we desire. He is at once

"The glory of our brightest days; The comfort of our nights."

Evening Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon for July 2nd

Published by C.H. Spurgeon for reading on July 2nd.

Psalms 28:1 Chapter 28 1 Unto thee, O Jehovah, will I call: My rock, be not thou deaf unto me; Lest, if thou be silent unto me, I become like them that go down into the pit.

A cry is the natural expression of sorrow, and a suitable utterance when all other modes of appeal fail us; but the cry must be alone directed to the Lord, for to cry to man is to waste our entreaties upon the air. When we consider the readiness of the Lord to hear, and His ability to aid, we shall see good reason for directing all our appeals at once to the God of our salvation. It will be in vain to call to the rocks in the day of judgment, but our Rock attends to our cries.

"Be not silent to me." Mere formalists may be content without answers to their prayers, but genuine suppliants cannot; they are not satisfied with the results of prayer itself in calming the mind and subduing the will—they must go further, and obtain actual replies from heaven, or they cannot rest; and those replies they long to receive at once, they dread even a little of God's silence. God's voice is often so terrible that it shakes the wilderness; but His silence is equally full of awe to an eager suppliant. When God seems to close His ear, we must not therefore close our mouths, but rather cry with more earnestness; for when our note grows shrill with eagerness and grief, He will not long deny us a hearing. What a dreadful case should we be in if the Lord should become for ever silent to our prayers? "Lest, if Thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit." Deprived of the God who answers prayer, we should be in a more pitiable plight than the dead in the grave, and should soon sink to the same level as the lost in hell. We must have answers to prayer: ours is an urgent case of dire necessity; surely the Lord will speak peace to our agitated minds, for He never can find it in His heart to permit His own elect to perish.