Finding God Faithful Where We Might Not Be
Has God ever prevented you from doing something you would regret later? Perhaps in a surge of anger or a hasty decision, God intervenes for good in our lives. God does what is right, even if we are prone not to. Today Dr. John teaches on about David’s interaction with Nabal and Abigail. David had been wronged and was ready to avenge it. God stepped in with wisdom for the greater picture.
READ MORERefusing to Run Ahead of God
The confidence of a warrior is not enough to enable a king. David knew how to fight; he will need to learn how to reign. Dr. John points to God’s care and schooling for David as he ran from Saul. A key lesson was learned in a cave in En Gedi. We learn to wait on God.
READ MOREGod Chooses Our Calling
We are not self-made, but shaped. We are not self-directed, but guided. Believers do not craft their own calling, but respond to the Voice and Hand of God. We see in David’s life, not only that God had a calling for him, but the way David discerned and answered that call. David’s pattern becomes a template for us all.
READ MOREGod Chooses Our Times and Circumstances
The place and purpose of David within the Scriptures cannot be overstated. He is the epitome of Monarchs in the Old Testament and the foreshadow of Messianic reign in the New Testament. Mores so, David’s life is evidence that God has purpose for us all. Listen as Dr. John begins to trace the intent of God through David’s life. It gives hope and meaning for us as well. We may not rise to the heights of David, but our lives in God’s Hands have purpose.
READ MOREResting in God
The book of Haggai shows Israel, repenting and rebuilidng the temple of God. They have learned that disobedience harvests hardships. Obedience releases the blessings and presence of God. Dr. John points to a greater lesson in Haggai’s last sermon. While Israel is building a Temple, God is building a Kingdom – an unending, unshakeable Kingdom.
READ MOREDon’t Underestimate
Confined by time and space, we are not very good at recognizing the importance of a moment, event, conversation or kindness. Any one of these can have powerful impact, but we fail to recognize it. Dr. John echoes Haggia’s encouragement to Israel. While the rebuilidng of the temple seemed small compared to Solomon’s temple, the glory of this structure would exceed the first. Jesus Himself would walk on those stones.
READ MORERevival!
We are bombarded with words daily. In print, broadcast or social media, everyone has something to say. Eventually, we tune a deaf ear to the messages. God’s Word cannot be ignored. Dr. John reminds us of the power of God’s Voice. After the prophetic words of Haggai, revival breaks out and God’s people obey. God effects change through His Word.
READ MOREIf God is Not Among Us
Anyone taking notes from Haggai’s sermons would find a clear outline. Repeatedly the prophet commands that we, “Take a good hard look at ourselves!” Today Dr. John repeats four considerations from Haggai for personal reflection. Even today, the questions demand an honest answer from each of us.
READ MOREThe Forgotten God
What’s a house without a family? The structure is there, but the purpose is missing. Today Dr. John begins a study of the book of Haggai. Jews have returned to Jerusalem after the 70-year captivity. The foundation of the temple was rebuilt – but then forgotten. Many tended to their own fields and homes but the presence of God was absent. The account of a people busy about their own concerns but negletful of God sound too current to ignore.
READ MOREApplication #4 – Be Optimistic
The dictionary defines optimism as a perspective which sees the favourable side of life. Many rest their optimism on the shoulders of their skills, resources or even luck. Dr. John reminds us that smiling at the future is possible not because of our capacity or actions, but because of God’s providence. We can embrace the favourable side of life and eternity because God is in charge. This brings hope, courage and a smile.
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