TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Numbers 11:4-34
God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts. - Romans 1:24
TODAY IN THE WORD
One of the most memorable episodes of I Love Lucy is “Job Switching,” in which Lucy and Ethel decide to prove they could handle jobs and Ricky and Fred think they can manage the cooking. They all get what they want—only things don’t go so well when Lucy’s job wrapping chocolates turns into a high-speed race to get candies off the conveyor belt. The men don’t fare much better when Ricky asked Fred if he knew anything about rice. Fred replied, “Well, I had it thrown at me on one of the darkest days of my life!” They proceed to attempt to cook several pounds of rice for dinner!

As Lucy frequently discovered, getting what you want isn’t always so great. The Israelites found this out in today’s passage, which introduces several days where we’ll examine the use of irony in Scripture.

The language used at the beginning of the story immediately alerts us to the comic elements: the people were “wailing” about their boring diet (v. 4). They romanticized their life in Egypt—conveniently no mention is made of the forced labor and slave drivers and infanticide as they wax nostalgic about cucumbers! They insisted that they were sick of manna, which the text takes care to describe as rather tasty (vv. 7-8).

Moses was exasperated by the wailing and begged God to do something. Fed up with the moaning and complaining, the Lord announced: “Now the Lord will give you meat, and you will eat it” (v. 19)! He would give them what they wanted—and they would regret it. They would eat it until “it comes out your nostrils and you loathe it” (v. 20).

In a dramatic display, God provided quail in the middle of the desert. And as promised, they were nearly drowning in meat—the birds were piled three feet high all around the camp (v. 31). But while the people were still in the act of eating, the Lord sent a plague as punishment for their complaint. Their wailing was not just about food preferences, it was about a lack of gratitude for God’s provision and deliverance.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
This text exhorts us to be careful about what we ask from God—we might get it, but it might not be best for us. How can you know whether your prayers are in line? First, ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Are you ungrateful for any of God’s provision? Are your requests motivated by envy of what someone else has? Second, delight in the Lord through Scripture and praise. As we know the Lord more deeply, our desires become conformed to His (see Ps. 37:4; 40:8).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Judges 4:17-22; 5:24-31
The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. - Zephaniah 3:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
On February 21, 1980, New York Times columnist Dave Anderson wrote, “Unless the ice melts, or unless the United States team or another team performs a miracle . . . the Russians are expected to easily win the Olympic gold medal for the sixth time in the last seven tournaments.” On February 22, 1980, the U.S. Olympic hockey team—comprised mainly of college students—defeated the mighty Soviet hockey juggernaut. As sportscaster Al Michaels called the final seconds of the game, he exclaimed, “Do you believe in miracles? YES!”

If Dave Anderson had been writing about the chances for Israel to defeat Sisera, he probably would have described it as an easy win for the Canaanites. And if Al Michaels were calling the play-by-play on the battle, he might have declared Israel’s victory a miracle. Scripture notes the great power and military prowess of Sisera (4:3). But this oppressive general wasn’t slaughtered on the field of battle or overpowered in a duel with another soldier. God had a far more deliciously poetic justice in store.

As Sisera’s army was routed by Barak, he fled on foot to the tent of Jael, the wife of a nomad who had a friendly relationship with the Canaanite king. She offered him milk and then delivered a mallet, driving a tent peg through his skull. Sisera’s death was God’s judgment for his tyranny over Israel; the means of Sisera’s death was God’s judgment on Barak for his lack of faith (4:9).

Deborah’s song of victory and praise to the Lord highlights the irony of Sisera’s demise. As his mother waited for the “clatter of his chariots,” the symbols of his brutality, her servants assured her that he was likely delayed by enjoying the spoils of victory and ravishing the women (vv. 28-30). But in fact, Sisera was destroyed by a woman who spoiled his victory. The dramatic downfall of Sisera revealed the miracle of God’s deliverance. He rescued His people, and He used surprising means to do it. He is a God who works miracles.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Do you feel overwhelmed by the challenges facing you? Perhaps temptation seems too strong to resist, or a long season of suffering feels like it will never end. You might endure opposition from colleagues or loved ones or face obstacles that threaten to smother your joy in Christ. God has not changed—He still works miracles on behalf of His people. He still defeats mighty strongholds of sin and oppression. He tells us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 4:9; see 1 Cor. 1:26-31).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Numbers 12:1-15
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. - Hebrews 13:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
Senator Strom Thurmond from South Carolina ran for President in 1948 as the candidate for the States Rights Democratic Party on a segregationist platform. In 1957, he launched the longest filibuster by a single Senator in history—clocking in at over 24 hours—in an attempt to defeat the Civil Rights Act. So many were surprised when after Thurmond’s death it was revealed that he had fathered a daughter with a black maid. While neither of them acknowledged the relationship while he was alive, Thurmond had supported his daughter financially for many years, and she had visited him in Washington, D.C.

Our passage contains irony related to skin color. But the ultimate issue was not black or white skin, but whether Aaron and Miriam would demonstrate appropriate respect for God’s appointed leader.

Miriam and Aaron began to complain about Moses’ dark-skinned wife from the land of Cush (v. 1). Whatever their complaint about Moses and his wife, the core issue was that Miriam and Aaron were jealous of Moses’ authority. Each of them had been granted special positions of responsibility, but they weren’t content with those roles (see Ex. 15:20; 28:1). Moses didn’t defend himself, but God did. The three siblings were summoned to appear before the Lord.

God detailed His special relationship with Moses. Unlike prophets, to whom He spoke in visions and dreams, Moses heard from the Lord face to face. He had seen the very form of the Lord (v. 8; see Ex. 33:12-23; 34:29). His face glowed with the radiance of God. How could Miriam and Aaron even conceive of challenging the position and authority of Moses? They were really challenging the authority of the Lord.

Miriam had complained about her dark-skinned sister-in-law, and in judgment God turned her own skin deadly white—with leprosy. Devastated, Aaron begged Moses for forgiveness, and Moses begged God for healing for his sister. The Lord agreed, but Miriam still suffered exile from the camp for seven days.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
During your prayer time today, spend extra time praying for your pastor and leaders in your church. Pray that they would seek the face of the Lord and that God would bless them with wisdom. Pray that they would lead your church to growth in unity and love in Christ. Pray that the church would be strengthened for service through their ministry. Thank the Lord for providing His people to do His work, and thank Him for the gifts that you have been given to support your church (see 1 Corinthians 12).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Genesis 27:35; 29:23; 37:26-27; 38:11-26
Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me through your law. - Psalm 119:29
TODAY IN THE WORD
Boomerangs were used in ancient European and aboriginal Australian cultures, and a collection of boomerangs was found in the tomb of King Tutankhamen. Today a World Cup for boomerang is held every two years in which throwers compete in contests like Accuracy, Endurance, Fast Catch, and Maximal Time Aloft (MTA). The current world record for MTA is 104.87 seconds.

Our final study today on irony in Scripture traces the boomerang path of deceit in Jacob’s family. Just as a boomerang will return back to the thrower, deceit invariably ends up deployed against the deceiver.

Jacob, whose name means “deceiver,” was willing to deceive his father in order to procure the birthright from his brother Esau (27:35). He successfully executed the deception but then had to flee for his life. His uncle Laban offered him a home, a job, and a wife—but when the time came to marry his beloved Rachel, Laban deceived Jacob and gave him his daughter Leah instead (28:23-25). Laban himself was tricked by his daughter Rachel when she took his household idols (31:19-35).

The legacy of deceit continued with Jacob’s sons. Jealous of Joseph, his brothers decided to sell him into slavery and tell Jacob that he had been eaten by a wild animal (37:26-35). Judah had come up with this plan, and in the next chapter he became the victim of a deceitful plan.

In violation of his promise to Tamar, Judah had not given her his son as a husband. Much time had passed, and Tamar decided to use some creative initiative to force Judah to acknowledge his responsibility (38:12). Deceiving Judah into thinking that she was a shrine prostitute, Tamar requested his personal seal as a pledge of his payment. When Judah heard that his daughter-in-law was pregnant as a result of prostitution, he demanded that she be executed—until he discovered that he was the father of her child (38:26). The strategy of deceit always rebounds back with consequences beyond what could be imagined.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Our culture subtly endorses deceit. Millions of people cheat in school, cut corners on their taxes, commit adultery, and tell lies in the workplace or neighborhood. Deceit is an issue that begins in the heart (Jer. 17:9), and only when our hearts are transformed by the Word of God and the work of Christ can we be free from its boomerang effects. If you struggle with this insidious sin, read the following verses: Job 27:4; Psalm 32:2; Psalm 101:7; 1 Peter 2:1; 1 Peter 3:10; and Revelation 21:27.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 2:1-6; 37:12-13; 59:7-8
The Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming. - Psalm 37:13
TODAY IN THE WORD
Everyone who has lived with young children has experienced the infamous Terrible Two’s . . . or the Threatening Three’s or the Feisty Four’s. Does this sound familiar? Colin (age 2) insisted: “I AM THE BOSS ROBOT!” Sometimes you can’t help but laugh at the futility of a two-year-old declaring that he wants to be in charge. God has the same reaction when His creation attempts to rebel against Him with the equivalent of a spiritual toddler temper tantrum. Today we’ll begin several days of examining holiness and humor.

Our verses today include examples of God laughing at the plots and plans of evil men. In Psalm 2, the people resist the “chains” and “fetters” of serving the Lord (v. 3). They want to walk according to their own wisdom, which is a terribly silly idea. As if the rulers on earth can dictate terms to the God in heaven! Christ will reign victorious forever and ever, and no petty despot can prevent that (v. 6; see Phil. 2:9-11).

Psalm 37 details the ways and ends of the wicked. Their oppression of the poor and opposition to the righteous is real; God does not explain away evil as an illusion. But He also knows while they might enjoy the fruit of their schemes for a short while, their eternal reward will be destruction (vv. 35, 38).

David trusted in God’s justice when Saul threatened his life, and his prayer in the psalm reflects his understanding of the power dynamic between God and evil. Traitors might stalk him, and liars might slander him, but ultimately God laughs at their pitiful attempts to undermine His chosen servant.

How foolish to think that the sovereign ways of God can be circumvented! How ridiculous to assume that the truth of God can be ignored! God laughs at these displays of human pride and then sends His judgment as a reminder that His Son and His salvation will prevail (Ps. 2:6; 37:39).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
If we trust the Lord, we can take comfort that God laughs at the wicked. Psalm 37 provides a blueprint for understanding and handling the presence of the wicked. Read through the psalm and note all of the imperative commands (“do not fret,” “trust,” “delight,” “commit,” etc.). Make two lists: one the coming consequences for the wicked and the other the final vindication of the righteous. When you feel overwhelmed by the evil in the world today, refer to your lists and take comfort in God’s ability to laugh.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: 2 Timothy 3:1-5
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. - Colossians 3:2
TODAY IN THE WORD
According to data from the Unity Marketing Group in Stevens, Pennsylvania, Americans spent almost $706 billion on entertainment in 2004. As company president Pam Danziger explained, “Recreation and entertainment are purely discretionary and emotionally driven.”

As we continue to study holiness and humor in Scripture, we must reckon with our own choices in entertainment, recreation, and humor. Our passage provides a strong warning about our priorities.

This letter from Paul to Timothy was the last missive written by the aging apostle. Throughout the letter, his passion for the gospel, sense of urgency, and commission to Timothy permeate each sentence. He knew his own days on earth were numbered, and he wanted to be sure to communicate each exhortation that the next generation needed to hear.

Our text warns of the traits that will be seen and celebrated in the last days. We might expect to read about shocking or barbaric attitudes and actions to be catalogued here; it’s sobering to consider how unshocking most of us would find these descriptions. Lovers of money? Proud? Disobedient to parents? Unforgiving? Rash? If we were making a list of behaviors that signal the apocalypse, would we include these? Paul describes them as “terrible” (v. 1).

Included in the list is “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (v. 4). This sums up the root of all these sins. Rather than place God at the top of all priorities, people have placed themselves there. Rather than follow God’s instructions for relationships, people follow their own agenda. When self is on the throne, terrible things will follow.

These sinful priorities can infiltrate our attempts to worship. When we value self-actualization above Scripture, seek pleasure above discipleship, promote profit above praise, or want entertainment above worship, we deny the power of the gospel (v. 5). The corrective is to measure our actions, attitude, and priorities against the truth of God in Scripture (vv. 14-17).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Some ascetics have used these verses to claim that all pleasure or entertainment is sinful, but that view isn’t supported here. Pleasure isn’t inherently sinful, but it must be subordinated to God. Saturation in Scripture is one of the best ways to help keep our priorities and pursuits in line. You can supplement your daily Bible reading with a Scripture memory plan, reviewing note cards with verses throughout the day, or listening to music that uses Scripture as lyrics.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Philippians 4:1-9
If anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. - Philippians 4:8
TODAY IN THE WORD
In The Magician’s Nephew, part of the Chronicles of Narnia series by C. S. Lewis, Aslan reassures the talking animals that he has created the legitimacy of laughter: “Now that you are no longer dumb and witless, you need not always be grave. For jokes as well as justice come in with speech.”

Yesterday’s passage gave a list of negative behaviors and attitudes to avoid; today’s passage provides positive actions and perspectives to embrace. The apostle Paul calls us to rejoice! This is more than simply feeling merry or having a good time. The root of our rejoicing is in the Lord. Based on what our Lord has done for us, our joy does not depend on circumstances but on our situation in Christ (see Phil. 2:1-9).

We can also be free from worry, for we have access to God Himself in prayer (v. 6). By recognizing that His sovereign control is combined with His vast love for us, we can have peace that defies logical explanation.

Finally, Paul makes a list of qualities to inform our thoughts and attitudes—and yes, our sense of humor and comedy as well. The construction of this list hints at its unlimited nature; Paul recommends whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable . . . and then as if he knows he could keep going forever, he wraps up by saying, “if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (v. 8). Far from limiting us, God expands our horizon of things to enjoy and celebrate!

When it comes to making decisions about humor, we have a helpful guideline in these verses. Throughout this month, we’ve seen various examples of humor in Scripture, from comical characters to funny situations to absurd descriptions, so humor can be enjoyed by the people of God. The key is holding our humor to the standard described here. We should never compromise our holiness for the sake of humor. Humor that points to truth, a satire that pokes fun at evil, or a comedy that is well-done and lovely are all appropriate for believers.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
It’s probably easy to think of humor in our culture that doesn’t meet the standards set in our passage. Can you think of examples that do? Mark Lowry, Dennis Swanberg, and Anita Renfroe all combine side-splitting comedy with a commitment to Christ. Writers like C. S. Lewis, Jerry Jenkins, John Koessler, and Marilynne Robinson weave humor throughout their writing. Veggie Tales are delightful cartoons that children (and adults!) enjoy. Even our sense of humor can be consistent with the guidelines in Philippians 4:8.

[Soldier4Christ]

TODAY IN THE WORD
Literary scholars define comedy as a narrative that begins with things going well before the characters encounter obstacles of some sort. The story resolves with a reversal of bad fortune and ensuing happiness for the characters. Sometimes described as the U-shaped narrative, it contrasts with tragedy, in which the obstacles prove too difficult to overcome.

Both secular literary scholars and biblical commentators have described the book of Ruth as an example of comedy. For the last few days of this month, we’ll examine comedies of redemption in Scripture, beginning with this lovely little book.

The early days of happiness are briefly alluded to in the beginning of the book; Naomi had a husband and two sons and a life in Bethlehem, but famine struck and the family moved to Moab. There, Naomi’s life fell apart, as first her husband and then both her sons died. Left with two daughters-in-law, Naomi decided to return to her hometown. Upon her return she declared, “Don’t call me Naomi. . . . Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty” (1:20).

Chapters 2 and 3 contain a romantic comedy, in which Boaz and Ruth met, expressed interest in each other, and then had to overcome the hurdle that the nearest relative posed for their relationship. Once Boaz had been approved to exercise the rights and privileges of the kinsman-redeemer, he married Ruth.

This book is more than just a romantic comedy or a story with a happy ending. In addition to its theological themes about God’s lovingkindness and care for His people, Ruth also serves as comedy of redemption. Notice the language at the end of the book. Naomi, who thought she had lost everything, heard this from her friends: “Praise to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. . . . He will renew your life” (vv. 14-15). Redemption is more than a feel-good tale—it means restoring hope from despair and bringing life from death.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Have you experienced redemption? The world tells us to pursue romance and happiness, but God offers so much more—forgiveness of sin, peace with God, and a transformation from spiritual death to eternal life. This redemption is available to all who trust in the atoning work of Jesus Christ. He died as the punishment for our sin and was raised from the dead as the firstfruit of our own resurrection. If you want to be reconciled to God and receive redemption, call 1-800-NEED HIM, or talk with a trusted Christian friend.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Esther 3:8-15; 7:1-8:15
It was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor. - Esther 8:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
The festival of Purim is still celebrated in Judaism to commemorate the deliverance in the book of Esther. God’s people were threatened with annihilation, but through a series of reversals of fortune, hidden identity, and Esther’s courage, they triumphed over their tormentor. The comedic elements of this book have long been recognized, and accordingly, the celebration of Purim is a time of fun and merriment. Noisemakers are used during the public reading of Esther any time Haman’s name is mentioned in order to signal disrespect for him, and delicious foods are shared with friends and family.

The book of Esther contains various forms of comedy, particularly relating to the fate of Haman. His dramatic reversal—he thinks he will be grandly honored by the king only to find that his elaborate plans for recognition are bestowed upon his arch-enemy Mordecai—is a classic version of comic misunderstanding (see Esther 6). Our focus today lies on the way the entire story of Esther dramatizes the comedy of redemption. Haman magnified a personal slight from Mordecai into a vendetta against all the Jews (3:6). The text implies that Mordecai refused to bow down to Haman because Jews reserved such devotion for God alone (see Daniel 3). By manipulating the king, Haman was able to procure an order to destroy all the Jews in Persia on one day (3:13).

Only Esther was in a position to intervene, but it involved risking her own life. With the spiritual support of her cousin Mordecai and the Jewish community, she agreed to plead with the king (4:16). Her ingenuity revealed the true nature of Haman’s plot, and Haman was hanged on the gallows where he had intended to kill Mordecai (7:10).

Although Haman had been executed, the order against the Jews was irrevocable. Esther again beseeched the king to protect her people, and Mordecai was given the opportunity to issue a decree in the king’s name empowering the Jews to resist any attack. What once appeared to be certain annihilation ended as a day of celebration.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The observance of Purim usually involves four elements: listening to the book of Esther read aloud; sending gifts of food to friends; giving food to the poor; and eating a festive meal. As part of reflecting on and celebrating our own great redemption, consider incorporating these into your schedule soon. Read the entire book of Esther, either on your own or with others, share food with friends and with those in need, and enjoy a meal together with loved ones. We can celebrate being delivered from certain death into abundant life!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 28:1-15
Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? - 1 Corinthians 15:55
TODAY IN THE WORD
Dante’s epic Divine Comedy has often confused readers by its name. What could be funny about an epic journey through hell (Inferno), purgatory, (Purgatorio), and heaven (Paradiso)? Using the classic literary model of comedy, however, Dante gave this title to his work because it is a work of hope, not despair. He believed that a true happy ending was possible only with the existence of the Divine who orders all things to an ultimate good. The Divine Comedy ends on the highest possible note with the vision of God.

As we conclude our study this month of humor in Scripture, we end with the highest note in the comedy of redemption: the story of God’s saving work for His people. As one scholar noted, all other comedies found in the Bible rest on the foundation of the plot of salvation history itself, the U-shaped comedy of creation, fall, and redemption.

Jesus Himself embodied this perfectly. He was born as a baby, somehow encapsulating the mystery of being fully God and also fully human. He proclaimed the good news of repentance and reconciliation with God, yet was opposed and eventually executed.

If the story ended at the crucifixion, all of Scripture would be a tragedy. God would be defeated. Jesus would be pathetic. But in the greatest reversal in all of history, the death of the Son of God was not history itself, the U-shaped comedy of creation, fall, and redemption.

Jesus Himself embodied this perfectly. He was born as a baby, somehow encapsulating the mystery of being fully God and also fully human. He proclaimed the good news of repentance and reconciliation with God, yet was opposed and eventually executed.

If the story ended at the crucifixion, all of Scripture would be a tragedy. God would be defeated. Jesus would be pathetic. But in the greatest reversal in all of history, the death of the Son of God was not the hour of defeat, but rather the moment of victory! Jesus accomplished our salvation, and God raised Him from the dead.

The comedy of the resurrection has implications for us. First, it makes grace, the reversal of the penalty we deserve, possible. Second, it makes our own resurrection from the dead possible (see 1 Cor. 15). Finally, God’s triumph over sin and death means that we who have been redeemed get to participate in rejoicing and worship for all eternity (see Rev. 21:3). God created humanity to dwell with Him, but the fall imposed separation. Jesus Christ has made a way for us to live with God. That “happy ending” will be just the beginning!

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We see two different reactions to the resurrection of Jesus. The guards were afraid, and, in order to cover their own incompetence and protect the reputation of their employers, they were willing to accept bribes and spread lies (vv. 4, 12-15). The women were also afraid but responded with joy, obedience, and worship (vv. 8-9). Not everyone can appreciate the greatest comedy! How will you respond to Jesus? Will you try to hide your failings, or will you respond with joy, obedience, and worship before the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 36:5-10
How priceless is your unfailing love! - Psalm 36:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
An American poet once claimed: “If my poetry aims to achieve anything, it’s to deliver people from the limited ways in which they see and feel.” This same sense of the power of poetry reverberates through the Psalms as the Hebrew poets awaken our slumbering eyes and restless hearts to God’s indescribable love. This month we will explore the vast expanse of the love of God; today we begin our study with praise and adoration through the words of one of the Bible’s most prolific poets, King David.

The Psalms were originally written in Hebrew, and because words and word order are extremely significant in poetry, let us consider these details in our study. In Hebrew, verse 5 of today’s passage begins with “LORD,” and verse 6 ends with “LORD.” This is the same name that God declared to Moses in Exodus 34, which we’ll look at tomorrow. This name carries great meaning, and its placement in Psalm 36:5-6 reflects God’s immeasurable and inexpressible character like the arrows at the ends of a number line, indicating infinity. In between the name of God, the poet paints four images that characterize God’s love, faithfulness, righteousness, and justice as never-ending, vast, immovable, and mysterious. Verses 5 and 6 certainly deliver us from the limited ways we see and feel God.

Notice that the word love is repeated three times in only 6 verses. The Hebrew word is hesed or loyal lovingkindness. More specifically, hesed refers to lovingkindness that is unelicited and often undeserved. The end of verse 7 reminds us that God’s love is a haven of protection to all people.

Tucked inside Psalm 36 are verses 8 and 9. Even more subtle are four words within these two verses: “your house” and “with you.” God’s house is His temple, the place where His glory dwells (Ps. 26:8), His presence among His people. Throughout the Bible, God promises to be with us, to go with His people. David recalls that in God’s presence, there is the fullness of His love; when we are with God, we find His life and His light.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
God’s love is not something we merely study with our minds, holding the topic at arm’s length. As you sing this psalm with King David today, purposefully place yourself into God’s presence. James 4:8 encourages us that if we come near to God, He will come near to us. Try using your imagination as you rest in God’s love and presence today. Picture yourself sitting peacefully at Jesus’ feet as Mary did (Luke 10:39) or entering God’s temple as Isaiah and the psalmists did (Isa. 6:1-8; Psalm 84).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Exodus 34:4-7
I the LORD do not change. - Malachi 3:6
TODAY IN THE WORD
In ancient Hebrew culture, the function of a name was not simply to distinguish one person from another. A name signified a person’s character, reputation, authority, and will. Our passage today records God’s declaration of His own name, and from it we see important things about God more clearly.

The phrase “like the first ones” should intrigue us and cause us to look back in Exodus to understand the history of today’s passage (v. 4). While Moses was with God on Mount Sinai, God inscribed His law on the first two stone tablets (Ex. 24:12-18; 31:18), but the people quickly grew impatient, for Moses was on the mountain for forty days and nights. With the help of Aaron, the people erected an idol, worshiped, and sacrificed to this golden calf (Exodus 32). When Moses descended from the mountain and saw the people’s idolatry, he broke the original two tablets in anger (v. 19). The people had already betrayed God and broken the first commandment.

The golden calf episode illuminates the quickness of God’s people to turn their hearts to worship false gods. Our passage today illustrates the depth of God’s love and forgiveness. When God proclaims His name, He is not exclusively announcing His response to the Israelites’ unfaithfulness at Mount Sinai. He is declaring who He is eternally as our covenant God. His name signifies who He is: He is always gracious and compassionate, always slow to anger, always abounding in love and faithfulness.

The people are confident that God’s declaration is trustworthy, because God confirms it by His actions. Israel completely betrayed their covenant relationship with God. But even after the Israelites’ idolatrous hearts worshiped other gods, the LORD demonstrates unimaginable grace, patience, and forgiveness by inviting Moses back to the mountain to rewrite the words that were on the first tablets (34:1-2). It is crucial, however, that we fully understand what God is saying. He also says that He “does not leave the guilty unpunished” (v. 7), and He confirms this promise by His actions too (32:33-35).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The greatest manifestation of the LORD’s name is the word made flesh, Jesus Christ. In fact, John declares that “grace and truth” came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). In the original language, John uses the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew words used for “love and faithfulness” from our passage today to connect Jesus with the LORD himself. Today, praise God for His eternal grace and compassion and abounding love and faithfulness to you through Christ. Let Psalm 145 guide your prayers and praise.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Isaiah 54:1-10
Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. - Psalm 30:5
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Jewish calendar includes a period of mourning to commemorate the fall of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple. The three-week period of sorrow culminates in a day of fasting. On the Sabbath following the fast, Isaiah’s prophecy of consolation is read aloud, inaugurating a time of rejoicing. The time of grief and despair in Israel’s history was not short-lived. And as we take time to understand the heartache, we will increasingly identify with the hope and expectancy of today’s passage.

Under Babylonian captivity, God’s people despaired. Jerusalem was desolate, the Temple was destroyed, and they were in exile. We can hear the people’s pain and resignation during this oppression in Psalm 137. Judah fell to Babylonian captivity around 586 B.C. There was no hope of redemption until 539 B.C. when Cyrus, King of Persia, rose to power and defeated the Babylonians. Then the LORD began to work through Persian emperors to restore His people, Jerusalem, and the Temple. Isaiah 40 is a proclamation like a peaceful dawn after a turbulent night. God declares that the time in exile is over; He is making a way for the people’s return; and His glory will be revealed once more (vv. 1-11). Isaiah 54:1-10 is part of this long-awaited message of hope of God’s redemption.

Jerusalem is the barren woman (v. 1). Verses 2 and 3 invite the city to expand to make room for the people who will return. God is bringing renewal. Jerusalem will no longer be deserted in shame and dishonor; the future will make the people forget the former days (v. 4). Why? God the Creator is also the husband who redeems (v. 5).

The Lord’s compassion is cited three times (vv. 7, 10). Then God references His promise to Noah (Gen. 9:8-17), once again making an eternal covenant with His people. He calls it a “covenant of peace” and binds Himself to His people in “unfailing love” (vv. 9-10). God is the perfect, faithful husband. His covenant love is unshakable and immovable.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Have you ever felt as if God was very far off or abandoned by Him? God’s people certainly felt forsaken while in exile. King David also cried out in loneliness and despair: “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13). The great news of today’s passage is that God has forever promised His unfailing love; He sealed this oath in Jesus’ death and resurrection (Heb. 13:5-6). Pray for eyes to discern God’s presence in your circumstances. Know that Christ is with you even in the darkest days.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Numbers 14:1-45
How long will they refuse to believe in me? - Numbers 14:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
After fleeing from Egypt, God’s people encamped in the Desert of Paran. The Lord commanded Moses to send twelve men to explore the Promised Land of Canaan (Numbers 13). The scouting trip lasted forty days. The explorers returned with a mixed report (13:27-28). They roused the whole Israelite community to fear the people in the land and distrust the Lord. Only two men, Joshua and Caleb, sustained confidence in the Lord’s plan. This is the context of our passage today.

Verses 1 through 12 recount the heightening tension between the people and the four faithful men (Moses, Aaron, Caleb, and Joshua). Notice the emphasis that everyone is grumbling and rebelling: “all,” “whole,” and “entire” are used seven times (vv. 1-10). The people speculate about alternatives (vv. 2-3; cf. Gen. 3:1-6). They question God’s trustworthiness and take matters into their own hands. Despite Joshua and Caleb’s attempt to change their hearts, the Israelites remain obstinate, and the Lord intervenes (vv. 10-12).

Moses mediates and seeks God’s restraint (Ex. 32:11-13). First, he appeals to God’s reputation among the Egyptians (vv. 13-16). Then, he evokes the Lord’s promise by referencing the declaration of his name (vv. 17-19; Ex. 34:4-7). The Lord is gracious and compassionate and forgives them (v. 20). Yet, He does not leave the guilty unpunished (vv. 21-35). God declares that everyone who is 20 years old or older and grumbled against Him will die in the desert and not see the Promised Land; the scouts who kindled the rebellion are killed immediately. This passage also illuminates what it means that the Lord punishes the children for the sin of the fathers (v. 33).

When the people realize that their heavenly Father is serious and true to His name, they change their tune. They try to repent, but it is too late (vv. 40-41). Moses warns them that the Lord will not go with them (vv. 42-43), but “in their presumption” they attempt to redeem what they have broken—and are defeated (v. 45).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
At the heart of the people’s contempt was their refusal to believe God (v. 11), to trust that He knows best, and to surrender to His plan, despite perceived difficulties along the way. Have you ever thought, “Isn’t there a better way, Lord?” or “I know where you are calling me, but it is dangerous with potential for failure and suffering.” Let the Spirit search your heart for these kinds of thoughts in your current circumstances. Repent and ask the Lord to quicken your heart to trust Him like Joshua and Caleb did.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 7:7-12
Yet not as I will, but as you will. - Matthew 26:39
TODAY IN THE WORD
It was a sticky August day as the Johnsons waited in helmets and life jackets, paddles in hand. As their whitewater rafting guide, Steve, described the Class 4 rapids of the Upper Ocoee River, Deborah began to have second thoughts. How could she possibly survive hydraulics with names like “Godzilla” and “Roach Motel”? Terrified, Deborah announced she would not be joining the family, when Steve addressed her directly: “Don’t worry! I’m an expert guide; if you do everything I say, you will be fine. In fact, you can sit close to me, and I will always have my eye on you.”

This story echoes the context of today’s reading. The Sermon on the Mount begins in Matthew 5. Jesus invites His disciples to embark on a perilous mission full of persecution, reconciliation, love of enemies, prayerfulness, and peace. The journey seems impossible, yet Jesus anchors hope for survival in the goodness of our heavenly Father.

Verse 7 presents the main idea of today’s passage. “Ask” occurs five times in five verses. “Ask,” “seek,” and “knock” all refer to prayer. Jesus’ message is that when His disciples beseech the Father through prayer, they will receive “good gifts” (v. 11).

Two illustrations shape the context of prayer and clarify the essence of Jesus’ words. The context is a loving relationship between God the Father and his children. Prayer is not a fanciful cry to a capricious or disdainful deity, but rather intimate communication with our heavenly Father. Jesus juxtaposes an earthly father and God the Father. If earthly fathers are sinful, yet respond to their children’s requests with good things, “how much more” will God—who is holy, righteous, and loving—do the same.

Today’s passage is about God’s love as a good Father. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount reveals the difficult life of a faithful disciple. But His message here is one of encouragement. God the Father cares for His children, and He will give all that is needed for this journey to all who rely on Him through prayer.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today’s passage heartens us, yet we cannot help but wonder about unanswered prayer. New Testament scholar Dale Allison reminds us that Jesus experienced a divergent answer to His prayer in Gethsemane: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me” (Matt. 26:39). This teaches us two points about prayer. First, prayers will be answered only in accordance with God’s will. Second, all prayers must be offered with the same qualification Jesus prays: “yet not as I will, but as you will.”