This is one of the most oft-quoted scriptures in the Bible, and more often than not it’s probably quoted out of true context. You see, this strength references a constant infusion of strength to the believer through relation with and dependence upon Christ. Power from God comes from within the…
Contentment is something that seems to be in short supply in our world. Our culture doesn’t encourage contentment, but instead pushes us to think we need the newest and biggest and most expensive to be happy. But true contentment—the kind of contentment Paul is referencing from his prison cell—is found…
Verses 6-8 mentions Moses, Aaron, and Samuel as priests who called upon the LORD on behalf of the rebellious people. These weren’t perfect men, but they strove to keep God’s ordinances. And God responded to their pleas. The LORD is always attentive to the cries of the people (even when…
Our LORD is to be exalted because He is holy, and also because He is a righteous judge. That’s stated in verse 4. Although He has all the power, He doesn’t wield it like a dictator. His judgement is always fair and right, never influenced by a bad mood or…
I love the beauty and power of “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!” by Reginald Heber. 1. Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee. Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity! 2. Holy, holy, holy! all…
We know what it means to praise–to lift up or exalt someone or something. In this case, the call is to exalt God’s name. The description of “terrible” here has a different meaning than we might think today. It comes from a word that means to fear, revere, or honor.…
Psalm 99 is known as an enthronement Psalm, meaning it was likely read aloud in worship festivals celebrating the Lord as King. The theme of Psalm 99 is God’s holiness and sovereignty. It starts with a confident declaration: The LORD reigneth. Whenever we see the word “lord” in all capital…
Eight years ago the greatest evangelical preacher of our generation, Rev. Billy Graham, went Home. I have a pretty active imagination, but I cannot fathom the rewards he must have received when he arrived at Heaven’s gate. He touched so many lives! And because of his commitment to Christ, he…
What a challenge, loving one’s enemy. When someone curses you, it’s not your natural inclination to bless them. If someone stomps on your foot, it’s very tempting to stomp back. When someone takes advantage of you, plans for getting even form in your brain. (Btw, that’s a universal “you” that…
HYMN DAY! “My Jesus, I Love Thee,” by William R. Featherston makes a beautiful prayer of commitment and adoration. 1 My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine; for thee all the follies of sin I resign; my gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou; if ever I loved…
