One Year Bible Blog

May 28th One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 13:1-39 + John 17:1-26 + Psalm 119:81-96 + Proverbs 16:6-7
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Second Samuel chapter 13 is a sad chapter to read in so many ways!  Amnon is David's first born son, so he is heir to the throne at this point.  Absalom is David's third born son - but at this point he may have been second in line to the throne because David's 2nd born son, Kileab, was only mentioned once and may have died young.  You'll note that there are unfortunately are some parallels in David's sin with Bathsheba and Uriah with his 2 sons' behavior in this chapter.  David sinned sexually with Bathsheba - Amnon sinned sexually against Tamar in a horrible way.  David sinned by ordering the murder of Uriah.  Absalom sinned by ordering the murder of Amnon.  Unfortunately we see a pattern of "like father, like sons..." in this chapter.  I don't think this always has to be the case in our human condition - I do believe we can be redeemed and transformed and not act in sinful ways like our parents may have acted.  But, I also do believe we need Jesus to save us from ourselves - in this regard of breaking the cycle/pattern of sin and in all regards.  Below is an illustration by Gerard Hoet from the year 1728 titled "Absalom's Servants kill his brother Amnon at a Feast":

Bible.org's commentary on our Second Samuel readings today titled "Tragedy in the Royal Family" is at this link.

New Testament - John 17 is such an amazing chapter... this is Jesus praying!  So powerful.  I honestly am at a loss for words on this chapter.  I could probably try to write something about each and every verse.  But, maybe what makes the most sense is for you to re-read this chapter again.  Do you see Jesus praying for you in this chapter?

Bible.org's commentary on today's John readings are extensive!  They've divided this chapter up into 3 commentaries, which shows the depth of what's going on in this chapter.  I recommend you take a few minutes to check out each of these commentaries.  The first commentary titled "The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus: Part I" is at this link, "Part II" is at this link, and "Part III" is at this link.

Psalms - I am continuing to love our readings of Psalm 119!  This is an incredible Psalm...  I somehow am re-reminded of how amazing this Psalm is every 6 months that we read it in the One Year Bible.  I could write something on each verse.  For example, I love the imagery in verse 81 today - "I faint with longing for your salvation; but I have put my hope in your word." I faint!  I long! I hope!  And Verse 83 - "I am shriveled like a wineskin in the smoke, exhausted with waiting. But I cling to your principles and obey them."  I am shriveled!  I am exhausted!  I wait!  I cling!  I obey!   I love this Psalm...  Verse 95 is powerful: "Though the wicked hide along the way to kill me, I will quietly keep my mind on your decrees."  How can you quietly keep your mind on God's decrees?  Will you make this a habit to quietly keep your mind on God's decrees?  Would this be a good habit?

Proverbs - Proverbs 16 verse 7 is interesting today - "When the ways of people please the LORD, he makes even their enemies live at peace with them." Do you believe this to be true?  I do... And I think I've seen this in action in my own life very recently.  Sometimes I think we can get so worried about our perceived enemies or whatever else - when really all we should be focusing on is our relationship with God.  And this other stuff will work itself out.  It's secondary.  Our relationship with God is primary.  Is this true in your life today?

YouTube:  Our readings in John today reminded me of the Sanctus Real song "Pray:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_J4I4gsvYA

When is the last time you prayed? Click here and Pray!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: "After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." John 17:1-3 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you know our Father God, the only true God. Pray that you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, God's Son whom He sent to save us. Pray and rejoice if you will have eternal life. Pray for those in your life that don't yet know Jesus, that they will accept him as their Lord & Savior.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Has God ever given you peace with your "enemies"?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 27th One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 12:1-31 + John 16:1-33 + Psalm 119:65-80 + Proverbs 16:4-5
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - We read a great parable from the prophet Nathan today to start the chapter!  Wow.  Convicting stuff for David...  You'll note that David said in response to this parable in verse 6: "He must pay for that lamb four times over, because he did such a thing and had no pity." Well, sure enough, David paid for the death of Uriah 4 times over through the future deaths of 4 of David's sons:  the unnamed son who dies in this chapter, Amon dies in chapter 13, Absalom in chapter 18, and Adonijah in First Kings 2:25.  I read a commentary that said God forgave David of his sin, but God did not negate all the consequences of David's sin.  Below is a portrait by Guy Rowe of David being confronted by Nathan.  You can imagine Nathan saying verse 9 in this image: "Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites."

Bible.org's commentary on our Second Samuel readings today titled "David and God (Nathan)" is at this link and "Real Repentance" is at this link and "The Death of David's Son" is at this link.

New Testament - John chapter 16 is amazing today!  I love verse 8's teaching from Jesus about the Holy Spirit: "And when he comes, he will convince the world of its sin, and of God's righteousness, and of the coming judgment."  One commentary on this verse and verse 9 today says:  "Apart from the Spirit's convicting work, people can never see themselves as sinners."  Wow.  This is powerful to reflect upon.  Did you ever have a time in your life that you did not see yourself as a sinner?  Was this time before you experienced the Holy Spirit?  Do you believe this to be true - that many in our world today cannot see themselves as sinners, apart from the work of the Holy Spirit and Jesus?  This I think should demonstrate to us who is truly doing conversion work in our world - not us, but Jesus and the Spirit.  We cannot convert anyone on our own human power.  The Holy Spirit must enter the room...

Bible.org's commentary on our John readings today titled "The Ministry of the Holy Spirit" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 119 verse 71 has an interesting take on suffering -  "The suffering you sent was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your principles."  Do you believe suffering can be good for you?  Can it teach you to pay attention to God?  Christianity Today magazine had a great article on Suffering a while back, which you can read at this link.  (Note that the article starts out with this provacative statement - "God loves you and has a difficult plan for your life.") Also, I did find some reflections on Suffering & Grief on ChristianityToday.com that are worth reading at this link.

Proverbs - Proverbs chapter 16 verse 5 today teaches us: "The LORD despises pride; be assured that the proud will be punished."  This Proverb reminds me of a talk I recently heard by Jim Collins, author of Good to Great.  I am a huge fan of Jim Collins work and had the good fortune to hear him talk about his short book titled "Good to Great and the Social Sectors", which I HIGHLY recommend to anyone who works in full time ministry or for a nonprofit - or even anyone who volunteers for either.  It's only 42 pages long, but packed with incredible incredible insights.  (secular business insights - but great stuff)  Anyhow, Jim Collins wrapped up his talk with something that reminded me of this Proverb.  He said something along the lines of, "As we go about our work and move our nonprofits/ministries from good to great, let us never fall into the trap of thinking that we've arrived.  Let us not fall into the trap of ever thinking that we are great."

Worship Video: Today's readings in John reminded me of the classic hymn "Be Thou My Vision" sung here Celtic style:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiukM6WHQEQ

Do you have true Vision for your life? Click here for eternal Vision!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray for peace in your life. Pray for more of Jesus in your life. Pray that when trouble comes to you in this world - and it will come - that you will take heart in knowing that Jesus overcame the world.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:   Have you ever fallen into the trap of thinking you are great?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 26th One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 9:1-11:27 + John 15:1-27 + Psalm 119:49-64 + Proverbs 16:1-3
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Interesting set of readings today in Second Samuel.  We start off with David showing kindness to Saul's crippled grandson Mephibosheth and we end with David committing adultery, ordering the murder of one of his warriors, and making God very unhappy.  What happened to change the course of events like this??  I think this is something that each one of us should take heed of - even when things are going very well in our walk with God, things can suddenly go the wrong direction if we are not vigilant in fleeing from sin and temptation.  David was obviously tempted when he saw Bathsheba from his rooftop.  He should have left that temptation there, and fled from it immediately - but instead he gave into it.  He asked about Bathsheba (entertaining temptation...) and invited her over and then committed adultery.  Then... things got worse.  That's how sin goes.  Once we let it start to run our life it can quickly start to ruin our life.  David thought he could trick Uriah into thinking Uriah got his wife pregnant - but Uriah in chapter 11 was behaving much more honorably than the king!  He would not sleep with his own wife when he knew other warriors were sleeping on the battlefields.  Uriah acted honorably.  David did not.  David allowed sin to run the show.  Below is a powerful painting by James Tissot showing the moment on the rooftop where David allowed temptation to take over...

Again - back to our lives - have you ever seen a pattern of sin running the show in your life?  I know I have in the past.  It's a dangerous pattern to see taking place in our lives.  It can lead to all kinds of pain and suffering for ourselves and those around us.  If you are perhaps even in the midst of sin running the show in your life now, there is hope.  There is confession and repentance.  David does give us this example in Psalm 51.  Psalm 51 David wrote after the events in chapter 11 took place with Bathsheba & Uriah.   Psalm 51 is a powerful Psalm of confession and repentance.  You may be at the point where you need to pray this Psalm to God now.  I think each of us does well when we pray this Psalm to God regularly.  We certainly may not be at the point where David was in chapter 11 - but, we likely have sin to confess to God - even right now.  Click here if you'd like to pray Psalm 51 now. 

Bible.org's commentary on today's Second Samuel readings titled "David and Bathsheba" is at this link and "David and Uriah" is at this link.

New Testament - Today we read one of my favorite chapters in the Bible - John 15. I cannot tell you how much this chapter means to me and I hope to you as well. John 15 takes place just after the Last Supper, the night before Jesus dies on the cross, so this is one of Jesus’ last teachings to the disciples – and to you and me. It is so beautiful. My quick personal story on this chapter is that I have only preached verbally once – and it was when I was in Bulgaria several years ago on a short-term mission trip. Our team ended up going to a small Roma church – and I mean small – in a village outside of the capital city of Sofia. As we drove up to the village where the church was located I saw rows and rows of grape vines in and around the village. I knew I would be preaching that evening – each person on our team took a turn every night. And initially I was planning to preach from a Psalm – but, when I saw the vineyards I quickly decided to preach from John 15, and it turned out to be so beautiful. I literally ended up outside of the church – all of us could not fit in the tiny 1 room church - under some grape vines preaching from John 15. God showed up. I cannot even remember what I said, but God moved. I pray that as you read John 15 today God moves for you as well. John 15 is something special. (John 16 & 17 are something special as well. . .)

Today in John 15 verses 12 & 13 we read these words of Jesus' - “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” Why would Jesus give us such a command as this? Why would Jesus give this command the night before he died on the cross? How did Jesus show his love for us? Do you agree that there is no greater love than laying down one’s life for his friends? Did Jesus do this for you and me? If we are to love each other as Jesus loved us, how do we do this? When we look at Jesus’ life and how he lived it, what might we be able to model in our lives? When we look at Jesus laying down his life for us, how might we be able to “lay down our life” for our friends? Do you love others as Jesus loved you?  Below is a moving painting by Spanish Baroque era painter Francisco de Zurbaran from the year 1635 titled "Agnus Dei":

Bible.org's commentary on today's John readings titled "Abiding in Christ" is at this link and "The Christian and the World" is at this link.

Psalms - Wow.  I love Psalm 119 verse 54 today - "Your principles have been the music of my life throughout the years of my pilgrimage."  What a beautiful metaphor - God's principles being the music of our lives through all our years as we are on our pilgrimage.  Great stuff!  How might God's principles actually become the music of your life?  Do you think you'd need to be reading God's Word frequently to tune into his frequency?  (did you catch that - frequently & frequency? :)   I commend you for reading the Bible each day this year as we go through the One Year Bible.  I pray you'll continue to read the Bible daily in all of your years to come.  I pray God's principles are and will be the music of your life.

 

 

Verse 59 today is a great verse for each of us to consider - "I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow your statutes."  Have you ever reached a mid-life or maybe even a quarter-life crisis where you pondered the direction of your life?  Do you like the direction your life is heading now?  Do you want to change that direction?  Will you turn to follow God's way?  God's Truth?  God's life for you?  Do you believe that God's plans for you are so much bigger than any plans of your own that you could dream up on your own?

 

Proverbs - Proverbs chapter 16 verse 3 is so very wise for each of us - "Commit your work to the LORD, and then your plans will succeed."  When it comes to plans for our lives, let us not model the behavior in this image below...

Worship Video: Based on the painting above titled "Agnus Dei," here's the song sung by Michael W. Smith:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPBmFwBSGb0

Do you know our Agnus Dei? Click here and meet the Lamb of God!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you have received the Spirit of Truth - the Holy Spirit - within you, through your faith in Jesus. Pray that you will love Jesus and keep his commands. Pray that you are rejoicing because the Holy Spirit lives with you and is in you today!

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on today's Proverb, do you commit your work to God?  Do you pray about your work and pray that it will be pleasing to God?  Do you pray for others at your work?  Do you pray for specific projects and meetings?  Do you commit your work to God each and every day?  If you do so, do you think your plans will succeed?   Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 25th One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 7:1-8:18 + John 14:15-31 + Psalm 119:33-48 + Proverbs 15:33
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Second Samuel 7 today is a big chapter!  God essentially establishes a covenant/promise with David. Verse 16 is a nice sum-up of God's promise to David: "Your dynasty and your kingdom will continue for all time before me, and your throne will be secure forever.'"  The throne is secure forever because from the lineage of David comes Jesus.  Jesus is forever.  Genealogies in Matthew 1 and Luke 3:21-38 will give you more details on this lineage.

It is interesting that God does not want David to build him a temple, but lets David know one of his descendents will in verses 12 & 13: "For when you die, I will raise up one of your descendants, and I will make his kingdom strong. He is the one who will build a house--a temple--for my name."  We will later learn the reasons for this in 1 Chronicles 28 verse 3 when David says - "But God said to me, 'You are not to build a house for my Name, because you are a warrior and have shed blood.'"  David was a warrior - as is very evident in Second Samuel 8 today.  David's purpose was to unite and establish Israel.  David's son Solomon will build the temple for God. Also, a commenter on this blog in the past made this strong point: "The building of a temple for God is not referring to Solomon but still to Jesus Christ. The true temple of God is the Church of Jesus Christ. While the Israelites have tried to build God a temple it has each time been destroyed. Only the Church of Jesus Christ is able to stand for all time. While it is true later Solomon does build a temple I believe this passage is still referring to Jesus and the church he builds."

I love David's prayer of thanksgiving to God in 2 Samuel 7 verses 18-29 today!  How often do you pray prayers of thanksgiving like this?  After the prayer of thanksgiving, an image is below for Second Samuel chapter 8 verses 9 through 11 today: "When King Toi of Hamath heard that David had destroyed the army of Hadadezer, e sent his son Joram to congratulate David on his success. Hadadezer and Toi had long been enemies, and there had been many wars between them. Joram presented David with many gifts of silver, gold, and bronze. King David dedicated all these gifts to the LORD, along with the silver and gold he had set apart from the other nations he had subdued."

Bible.org's commentary on today's Second Samuel readings today titled "Building God's House" is at this link.

New Testament - Wow.  Today's John chapter 14 readings start off strong with a very short sentence of teaching from Jesus in verse 15 - "If you love me, obey my commandments."  Not too complicated there, eh?  :)  Really... it's quite easy to understand.  And believe.  But to obey... hmmm...   I've been thinking about that "obey" word quite a bit lately.  In fact, it's a word that has been spray painted around my neighborhood lately - "obey" - I think for some political statement reasons.  It's not really a popular word.  But it's a pretty straightforward teaching from Jesus.  Obey.  Obey my commandments.  "If you love me, obey my commandments."  I really do believe that true freedom is found in this.  When we are obedient to Jesus' teachings and God's will in our lives, we truly will be living "free" lives.  I know it sounds like an oxymoron.  But I believe it is true.  The more we obey Jesus' teachings, the freer we truly become.  Do you think this is true?  Are you obeying Jesus' teachings in your life?  Do you feel freer?  And below is a little obedience humor for you based on verse 15 above... :)

Well, if we are wondering how on earth we can possibly obey Jesus' teachings, He graciously answers this for us in the next two verses in today's readings: "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But you do, because he lives with you now and later will be in you."  Basically, we cannot obey Jesus' teachings on our own.  Using our own will power or smarts or strength, we will fail.  We need the Holy Spirit, living with in us, to give us the grace and strength to obey Jesus' teachings.  The Holy Spirit rounds out the Trinity and leads us and guides us.  Are you looking for the Holy Spirit?  Do you recognize the Holy Spirit living within you?  Do you believe the Holy Spirit is leading you into all truth?

Verse 27 is a beautiful teaching from Jesus: ""I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid."  Have you received the gift of peace from Jesus?  Do you have peace of mind and heart? 

Bible.org's commentary on today's John readings today titled "Having a Friend in High Places" is at this link.

Psalms - Today in Psalm 119 verses 47 & 48 we read – “I delight in your commands because I love them. I lift up my hands to your commands which I love, and I meditate on your decrees.” Do you believe it is possible to delight in God’s commands? Why might this be a good thing? Do you believe it is possible to actually love God’s commands? What are God’s commands? Where can we find them? (okay, I’ll give you a hint – the answer is all over Psalm 119 :) - God’s Word, the Bible is where we can find God’s commands) Do you meditate upon God’s decrees as found in the Bible? Do you love the Bible? This seems like a strange question to ask in some regards. . . but, maybe ask yourself this – do you love books in general? I think many of us would say we love books. (Maybe using the term loosely. . .) So, if we were to consider just one book that it would really make sense to invest our time in; to meditate upon; to read for all of our lives; to love – what would that book be? Why would it be that book?  Are you a bookworm when it comes to the Bible?

Today in Psalm 119 verse 37 we read:  “Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.”  Are there currently things in your life that you are spending time on – focusing your eyes on – that are worthless?  What are these things?  Do you want to turn your eyes away from these things?  Will you?  Do you believe that your life can be preserved by the Word of God – the Bible?  How will you continue to preserve your life according to God’s Word on a daily basis? Do you consider the Bible literally to be a "life preserver" for you in the midst of the raging rivers of life?  Will you hold onto this life preserver each and every day?

Proverbs - Wow... how powerful is Proverbs 15 verse 33 today? - "Fear of the LORD teaches a person to be wise; humility precedes honor." 

Worship Video: Today's readings in Second Samuel 7 reminded me of Delirious' song "What a Friend I've Found (Jesus, Friend Forever):"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP0LcrQzkfo

Is Jesus your friend? Click here and meet your best friend forever!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: "If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." John 14:15-17 TNIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you have received the Spirit of Truth - the Holy Spirit - within you, through your faith in Jesus. Pray that you will love Jesus and keep his commands. Pray that you are rejoicing because the Holy Spirit lives with you and is in you today!

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Do you believe this Proverb to be true?  Does fear of God teach us to be wise?  Why would humility precede honor?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 24th One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 4:1-6:23 + John 13:31-14:14 + Psalm 119:17-32 + Proverbs 15:31-32
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Second Samuel chapter 4 verse 11 stood out as David said this to the 2 murderers of Ishbosheth: "Now what reward should I give the wicked men who have killed an innocent man in his own house and on his own bed? Should I not also demand your very lives?"  Similar to the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul and reported this news to David, David was not happy with the news.  This all reminds me of the old adage that you cannot fight evil with evil - you'll get corrupted in the process.  These 2 guys murdered an innocent man, thinking they were doing a greater good for David.  David disagreed.  Are there times in our lives where we do something wrong / bad / lie / evil for what we think might be a greater good?  Aren't we then corrupted in the process?  Do we go from left to right in this photo below? :)  (sorry, couldn't resist this silly image!  On the website where I found this image, they labeled this photo, "The Dog I bought versus the Dog I got"... :)

In Second Samuel chapter 5 David is anointed King of Israel!  Israel and Judah are now united - but they will be divided again only a short 75 years later.  Verse 7 is the first time the term Zion is used in the Bible: "But David captured the fortress of Zion, now called the City of David."  Below is a visual of Jerusalem at about this time that David conquered it from the Jebusites - and to the right the map shows the growth of Jerusalem just 50 years later in Solomon's time.  (1000 B.C. to 950 B.C.) We'll come back to this visual when we get to Solomon in our readings.

 

In Second Samuel chapter 6 when the Ark is brought back to Jerusalem verse 14 is phenomenal to imagine: "And David danced before the LORD with all his might, wearing a priestly tunic."  And David's words in verse 21 are something for you and I to consider in our lives today - "So I am willing to act like a fool in order to show my joy in the LORD."  Are you willing to act like a fool to show your joy in God?  Have you ever danced before God with all your might?  Think you ever could?

Bible.org's commentary on our Second Samuel readings today titled "A Place of One's Own" is at this link and "When God Rained on David's Parade" is at this link.

New Testament - I love the dialogue today between Thomas and Jesus in John 14 verses 4 through 6!  Somehow I didn't quite remember the context of Thomas' question setting up Jesus' profound statement in verse 6.  Beautiful.  Jesus starts us off in verse 4 - "And you know where I am going and how to get there."" "No, we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We haven't any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."  These last two sentences of Jesus' we've probably all heard many times.  But how often have we asked Thomas' question either to ourselves or to God or to now one in particular - "how can I know the way?"  Jesus answers this for us perfectly.  Have you ever felt in your life that you didn't know the way? Do you believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life?

Verses 12 through 14 today are so convicting for me - because I really rarely follow this teaching (or fully believe in it?) of Jesus' - "The truth is, anyone who believes in me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, because the work of the Son brings glory to the Father. Yes, ask anything in my name, and I will do it!" Do you believe that you can do the same works Jesus has done, and even greater works?  I'll confess - I'm not so sure that I do.  I mean, it's encouraging to think that I could, even if I don't fully believe it.  And, yet, I believe most everything else Jesus teaches.  Why would I doubt this teaching?  Maybe it's because I have some sort of inferiority complex - or maybe I think it would be prideful to think this.  But Jesus teaches it quite plainly!  Or...  maybe...  I haven't really asked Jesus for the guidance and wisdom to believe this - and asked for even just this in his name.

Bible.org's commentary on our John readings today titled "Having a Friend in High Places" is at this link.

Psalms - Wow.  Psalm 119 verse 29 is powerful: "Keep me from lying to myself; give me the privilege of knowing your law." Do you ever lie to yourself? If you answered no, are you lying to yourself now?  :)  I think that lying to ourselves is part of our fallen human condition.  I think we're probably pretty good at it.  And I think that maybe the cure for this is even found in this same verse - the prayer of "give me the privilege of knowing your law."   It is a privilege to know God's Word.  It is a free privilege, but a privilege that I think we can often take for granted or simply ignore.  Through our study of God's Word let us pray that we allow God to show us any area of our life where we might be lying to ourselves.  And let us allow God to redeem that area and give us the clarity of Truth.  Like this Psalmist, will you pray to God and ask Him to keep you from lying to yourself?  Will you pray this prayer often?

Proverbs - Proverbs 15 verse 32 I think is one great reason for us to be in community with others: "If you reject criticism, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding."  I think if we are not in community with others, we can avoid criticism.  Which is just as good as rejecting criticism.  But, if we are truly in community with others - and yes, community can and should be messy really - then we will inevitably be criticized at some point and in some way by those around us in community.   But this is a good thing!  We need to listen to correction from those around us.  We need to grow in understanding.  Let us live our lives in community!

Worship Video: Today's readings in John remind me of the terrific Phil Wickham song "Battle Belongs:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtvQNzPHn-w

Are you fighting a battle? Click here for your Battle Victor

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35 TNIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are loving everyone you come in contact with in your life. Pray that the world will see you are a disciple of Jesus, because of your love for others. Pray that you will love others like Jesus loves you.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Are you in community?  A community that will actually constructively criticize you from time to time?  And will you listen to this criticism so that you might grow in understanding? What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 23rd One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 2:12-3:39 + John 13:1-30 + Psalm 119:1-16 + Proverbs 15:29-30
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link, or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Today's Second Samuel readings are quite dramatic!  We start off with the beginnings of what I think you could call a civil war between Judah and Israel in chapter 2 verses 15 through 17: "So twelve men were chosen to fight from each side—twelve men of Benjamin representing Ishbosheth son of Saul, and twelve representing David. Each one grabbed his opponent by the hair and thrust his sword into the other’s side so that all of them died. So this place at Gibeon has been known ever since as the Field of Swords. A fierce battle followed that day, and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the forces of David."

In chapter 3, it is interesting to see how David got so mad at Joab for killing Abner.  Understandable for many reasons - murder being the main one - but also Abner was working to bring David's kingship to all of Israel.  Joab's murder of Abner threatened the civil war between Judah and the rest of Israel to start up again.  To the right below is a wonderful image from an illuminated Bible from the year 1250 of David dining with Abner before the murder.  In the smaller left hand frames you can see David sending Abner back to Israel, and then in the lowest left hand frame you can see Abner stabbing Joab.

And below is an image of David mourning at Abner's graveside as we read in 2 Samuel 3 verse 32 today: "They buried Abner in Hebron, and the king and all the people wept at his graveside."

Bible.org's commentary on our Second Samuel readings today titled "Two Bald Men, Fighting over a Comb" is at this link.

New Testament - Wow.  Jesus' teaching in John 13 verses 14 - 17 are so powerful today: "And since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. How true it is that a servant is not greater than the master. Nor are messengers more important than the one who sends them. You know these things--now do them! That is the path of blessing."   Are you on the path of blessing?  What might it mean to "wash other's feet" today?  Yes, perhaps at times it literally means wash other's feet.  Could it mean other acts of service as well that perhaps we maybe think we are "too good for" or "above" in any way?  Jesus humbled himself to wash other's feet.  Are you humbling yourself to serve others in ways that your ego might not like?

Bible.org's commentary on our John readings today titled "Menial Service" is at this link and commentary titled "Judas" is at this link.

Psalms - Whoo-hoo!  Today we begin Psalm 119, the longest Psalm and chapter in the Bible! This Psalm is a beautiful meditation on God’s Word and how it helps us stay pure and grow in faith. Almost every verse in this Psalm mentions God’s Word.  I pray that this Psalm is encouraging to you as you read through the One Year Bible!

Today in Psalm 119 verse 11 we read: “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Have you hidden God’s word in your heart? So that you might not sin against God? Do you realize that all sin is indeed a sin against God? Are you memorizing Scripture on a regular basis? And, more importantly, reflecting on Scripture?

Proverbs - Proverbs 15 verse 30 today teaches us: "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones."  This is a great reminder to spread good cheer to others and to not hesitate in sharing good news with others whenever possible. It brings joy to the heart and health to the bones!  And, well, no, I don't think this Proverb is talking about this kind of healthy bone below...  :)

Worship Video: Today's readings in John remind me of the Chris Tomlin song "I will Rise:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKRF8UihM5s

Will you Rise when Jesus calls your name? Click here to Rise!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are memorizing and meditating Scripture on a regular basis. Pray that you will not sin against God because of His Word and Spirit dwelling within you.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 22nd One Year Bible Readings

2 Samuel 1:1-2:11 + John 12:20-50 + Psalm 118:19-29 + Proverbs 15:27-28
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Today we begin the book of Second Samuel!  Below is an image of David being anointed king of Judah from chapter 2 verse 4 in today's readings:

Second Samuel
Author: Unknown
Date: Probably tenth century B.C.
Content: Second Samuel covers approximately forty years, which is the bulk of David’s reign as king. It begins with David’s being proclaimed king and consolidating his position against others who claimed the throne. David moved the capital to Jerusalem, brought the sacred Ark of the Covenant there, and ultimately defeated the Philistines for all time. David’s troubled career is described in some detail, including his family problems (his son Absalom) and his personal problems (adultery with Bathsheba). A summary of David’s later years concludes the book.
Theme: The life of David is given as an example of good and of evil. The sins of David are exposed – so that too much trust will not be put in men. The victories of David are recorded – so that it may be seen what God can do with someone who wholly trusts in him. God used David in spite of his faults because he found in David a willingness to repent and start again, no matter how far he had fallen. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” pp. 5-6)  More commentary on Second Samuel is at this link:
https://bible.org/seriespage/introduction-2-samuel

A note on the Amalekite that comes to David with news of Saul's death in Second Samuel chapter 1 today.  Many Bible commentaries suggest that this Amalekite was a war "scavenger" that was looking for treasures on the battle field from the dead.  Based on 1 Samuel chapter 31, it is thought that this Amalekite found Saul dead, grabbed Saul's crown before the Philistines arrived, and made up the story of killing Saul to David because he thought David would reward him for killing who he thought was David's "enemy."  David's reaction was quite the opposite than what the Amalekite thought it would be...  Bible.org's commentary on our Second Samuel readings today titled "What an Amalekite is Dying to Tell David" is at this link.  Below is an image of David tearing his garments and lamenting the death of Saul:

Today in 2 Samuel chapter 1 we read about David’s lament for Saul & Jonathan. This year in going through the One Year Bible, I have really been intrigued by Jonathan and David’s relationship. They became incredible “brothers” it seems – much like we now have “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ today. And there seems to have been an amazing love between Jonathan and David – not sexual in any way, but a pure brotherly love. In verse 26 we will read – “I grieve for you Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful.” Personally, I have been thinking about this word “love” quite a bit in recent months. I don’t know if this is going to sound strange – I hope it’s a good sign :) - but I find myself using the word “love” more and more often when referring to and thinking of others in my life. I have found myself saying recently, for example, “there are so many people in my church that I love and I believe love me.” I guess I’m getting to this stage in my life that may seem at first glance sentimental – but I think it is something more. I believe God is love. And yes, God is judge and many other things. But I do believe that love is a very godly thing. And I guess I’m getting to the point in life where I realize that I truly do love so many people in my life – with a brotherly or sisterly love – and maybe perhaps a few love me too. I pray this is the case in some way in your life? Are there people in your life that you love with a brotherly or sisterly love? Are there people in your life that were like Jonathan was to David? Are there people in your life where you are like Jonathan was to David? How familiar are you with love as expressed in 1 Corinthians 13? Did Jonathan have this type of love? Do you?  Below is a portrait of David & Jonathan by artist Guy Rowe:

New Testament - Great words from Jesus in our John readings today!  I honestly don't think I can add anything to what Jesus said in these readings today!  Please re-read this section again from John if you can and meditate upon what Jesus teaches us.  Bible.org's commentary on today's John readings titled "The Greeks Seek Jesus" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 118 is the last half of the psalm possibly sung by Jesus and the disciples after the Last Supper - see yesterday's posting below for details.   What an amazing Psalm...  Verse 22 was quoted by Jesus in Matthew 21:42, Mark 12:10 and Luke 20:17 and he used this verse to refer to himself - "The stone rejected by the builders has now become the cornerstone."  Do you believe this verse applies to Jesus?  Is Jesus the cornerstone in your life?

Verse 26 was the chant of the crowds as Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday - "Bless the one who comes in the name of the LORD."   And verse 29 I'm pretty sure is a Michael W. Smith song - "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever."   :)

Proverbs - Proverbs 15 verse 27 teaches us today: "Dishonest money brings grief to the whole family, but those who hate bribes will live."  Think there is truth in this Proverb?

Worship Video: Today's readings in Psalm 118 remind me of the song "In Christ Alone." Here's a great live version sung by Kristian Stanfill:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNRFumI2ch0

Who alone do you trust? Click here for Christ alone!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "Father, glorify your name!" Then a voice came from heaven, "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again." John 12:28 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that your life is bringing glory to God the Father. Pray that you will obey the teachings of God the Son through the power of God the Holy Spirit dwelling within you. Pray that you would not sin, which brings glory only to the evil one. Pray that you would not worship the evil one by sinning. Sin is worship - of the evil one. Pray for your worship to be to God alone through your faith in Jesus and living a life of righteousness.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 21st One Year Bible Readings

1 Samuel 29:1-31:13 + John 11:55-12:19 + Psalm 118:1-18 + Proverbs 15:24-26
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - We finish the book of First Samuel today!  Second Samuel is up tomorrow!  First Samuel chapter 29 verse 8 read a bit strange to me: ""What have I done to deserve this treatment?" David demanded. "Why can't I fight the enemies of my lord, the king?""  It seemed odd, at first read, that David would say this to King Achish of the Philistines.  Commentaries suggest that David may have purposefully made an ambiguous statement here, such that Achish (and maybe us) would think he was referring to Achish - when perhaps he was referring to God or Saul as David's "lord, the king."  With David's madman acting and wisdom, this ambiguous type statement with another meaning would not be surprising...

In First Samuel 31 today we read about the death of Saul.  At the very end Saul did what he always did - took things into his own hands.  Relied on himself.  Fell on his own sword.   Perhaps sometimes in our lives today we are not so different from Saul.  Maybe we try to take things into our own hands.  Rely on ourselves.  But hopefully never fall on our own swords...   We should instead be leaving things in God's hands and relying fully on God.

Bible.org's commentary on today's First Samuel readings titled "From “Playing Both Ends Against the Middle” to “Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place”" is at this link and "From Tragedy to Triumph" is at this link and "Saul's Death Wish" is at this link.

New Testament - John 12 verse 10 stood out to me today - somehow I hadn't really noticed this verse before - "Then the leading priests decided to kill Lazarus, too, for it was because of him that many of the people had deserted them and believed in Jesus."   Lazarus was raised from the dead and they wanted him dead again...  sad...  The miracle had caused many to believe in Jesus as the Messiah.  Not surprising that those in that day who were against Jesus would also be against those close to Jesus.  Think there might be some correlation in this regard in our world today?  Is it possible that the closer we get to Jesus, the more the Enemy might come up against us in various ways?  It cannot defeat us with God on our side.  But it may come after us.  I'm a day late in our readings on this painting below from the year 1630 of "The Raising of Lazarus" by Rembrandt:

I like verse 19 today!   "Then the Pharisees said to each other, "We've lost. Look, the whole world has gone after Jesus!""  Unfortunately it was a bit of an exaggeration at that time and the 2,000 years following.  But maybe in the future?  How are you part of the Great Commission today?  An image is below for verse 15 (originally from Zechariah 9:9) - ""Don't be afraid, people of Israel. Look, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt."

Bible.org's commentary on our John readings today titled "The Sweet Smell of Love and the Stench of Greed" is at this link and "The Un-Triumphal Entry" is at this link.

Psalms - I came across a wonderful speculation on Psalm 118!  Zondervan's commentary suggested that Jesus and the disciples sung this psalm/hymn at the end of the Last Supper.  Matthew chapter 26 verse 30 tells us - "When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives."   Adds a bit of a new dimension to this Psalm, no?  The reason for this speculation is because this is the final Psalm in the Egyptian Hallel of Psalms 113 through 118.  These Psalms were used in Jewish liturgy at the great religious festivals of Passover, Tabernacles, Dedication, Weeks, New Moon.  At Passover Psalm 113 & 114 were sung before the meal and Psalms 115 - 118 were sung after the meal.  Perhaps, even after the Last Supper by Jesus and the disciples?  Below is Russian artist Simon Ushakov's "The Last Supper" from the year 1685 -

Verse 8 in this Psalm stands out to me big time: "It is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in people." Kind of strong words I know...  but what do you think?   Might people, on occasion, let you down?  Obviously, we know the answer to this one.  People will let us down.  Even our closest friends and family at some point will let us down.  However - I don't think this means we give up on investing and loving friends and family!  It just means we should not be surprised when someone lets us down.  That's human nature.  None of us is perfect this side of heaven - you will obviously let people down too.  Realizing this, I think all of us should be prepared to forgive others and to ask for forgiveness of others.  However, what do you think on this question:  Will God ever let you down?  Will Jesus ever let you down?  Please know He won't!  In fact, I believe that He's holding you up right this very moment...

Proverbs - Proverbs 15 verse 24 is a beautiful meditation - "The path of the wise leads to life above; they leave the grave behind."  Are you on the path of the wise?

Worship Video: Today's readings in John about Jesus remind me of the Passion/Christy Nockels song "Let it be Jesus:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2h9Hm9JZho

Have you Let it be Jesus? Click here and Let it Be!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me (Jesus)." John 12:8 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you love Jesus above all else. Pray that you will indeed love and serve the poor in our world, but won't love this service to the poor or anything else in this world above your love for Jesus. Pray that you will always have Jesus in eternity. And pray that the poor will too, through their saving faith in Jesus. Pray that you realize we are all truly poor if we are not in a saving relationship with Jesus.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 20th One Year Bible Readings

1 Samuel 26:1-28:25 + John 11:1-54 + Psalm 117:1-2 + Proverbs 15:22-23
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link, or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - In First Samuel 26 David completes the 3 "tests" of obedience, as discussed in yesterday's post, by once again not killing Saul when he had the opportunity.  Verses 9 through 11 again show David's character when he and Abishai had snuck into Saul's camp and Abishai offered to kill Saul - ""No!" David said. "Don't kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the LORD's anointed one? Surely the LORD will strike Saul down someday, or he will die in battle or of old age. But the LORD forbid that I should kill the one he has anointed! But I'll tell you what--we'll take his spear and his jug of water and then get out of here!""

Interesting... in First Samuel 28 Saul bans mediums - wise - and then becomes desperate for one - unwise...  The medium seems to get quite freaked out that she has called up Samuel.  Commentaries suggest that she is used to calling up satanic / demonic forces.  She (possibly) connected to Samuel somehow here and was freaked out by it.  And Samuel tells Saul exactly what he probably knows in his heart.  God has left him - a long time ago - because of his disobedience.  Consulting a medium is just one more disobedient act in a string of them.  I pray that no one reading this consults mediums or does tarot cards or gets into palm readings or any of that garbage.  It is spiritually dangerous and risky to get into any of that.  Unfortunately, I know that things like "tarot card reading parties" are somewhat popular today.  I have been invited to them and have not gone - and told the hosts why I was not attending.  Please avoid this spiritually risky stuff.  It is no joke dangerous.  Below is a painting by Benjamin West from the year 1777 titled "Saul and the Witch of Endor":

Bible.org's commentary on today's First Samuel readings titled "The Second Time Around" is at this link.  Commentary titled "One Step Forward, and Two Backward" is at this link and commentary titled "Finding God's Will, Any "Witch" Way You Can" is at this link.

New Testament - Today in John chapter 11 verse 35 we read the shortest verse in the Bible – “Jesus wept.” Though this may be the shortest verse, I do not believe it is small in meaning. What does it say to you that Jesus wept? What does it mean to you that Jesus wept? I love this verse because to me it shows Jesus’ humanity (while at the same time he is divine). During his time living as a man on earth, Jesus experienced the full range of emotions that you and I experience today. Jesus was tempted. (though, unlike us, he did not give into temptation and sin ever) Jesus was joyful. Jesus was angry. Jesus loved. Jesus wept. Knowing this about Jesus, does this help you to realize that you can approach Jesus with absolutely any situation in your life that you might be struggling with? Do you believe that Jesus will understand you if you are weeping? Do you believe that Jesus will rejoice with you when you are rejoicing? I do. “Jesus wept” says so much to me about who Jesus was, is, and forever will be. Jesus wept.

Bible.org's commentary on today's John chapter 11 readings titled "Dealing with Death" is at this link and "The Raising of Lazarus" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 117 is the shortest of all the Psalms - and the shortest chapter in the entire Bible.  This Psalm is said to basically be one long Alleluia.  :)  Actually verse 1 has a very important message - "Praise the LORD, all you nations. Praise him, all you people of the earth."  This demonstrates that God was very interested in the salvation of the Gentiles and all the nations in the Old Testament.  And not just in the New Testament as we get to the book of Acts.  This was part of the plan all along...

Proverbs - Today in Proverbs chapter 15 verse 22 we read – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Wow. . . this verse really is convicting for me on a couple of levels. The first thought for me is God – and how often (or not often) do I pray to God for counsel on my plans for my life? Truthfully, not enough. I pray to God daily – but it’s usually pretty brief. I believe God wants us to come to him often in prayer asking for guidance and counsel on our plans. Imagine that – with God as an adviser on our plans, do you think they might succeed?? :) Secondly, I think about community – other people. And I think about, first of all, am I in community? Am I in a community of people that I know well and that know me? And if so, am I consulting this community on my life plans? Am I allowing people I know and love to advise me on my life? Think this would be wise? How about you – do you pray often to God for counsel and leading in your life plans? Are you in community with others that you know well and that know you? And do you consult this community with your plans and ask for their advice?

Worship Video: Psalm 117 reminds me of Michael W. Smith's "A New Hallelujah!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBxOkruKpqI

Do you sing Alleluia? Click here and sing!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "Jesus wept." John 11:35 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray in thanksgiving that Jesus wept like we weep. Pray in thanksgiving that Jesus knows pain and joy, as we do. Pray in thanksgiving that Jesus is our High Priest who like us was tempted in every way, but never sinned, and intercedes on our behalf before the Father.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  I read an interesting commentary today related to Jesus weeping in John.  The commentary basically said that while we have recorded in Scriptures that Jesus wept, we don't have anywhere recorded in Scriptures that Jesus laughed.  I had never thought about that before!  The commentary went on to say that they are sure Jesus laughed and had a great sense of humor.  But I find that fascinating to think about - that it's not recorded that Jesus laughed.  Why do you suppose this is?  Do you think Jesus laughed?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

May 19th One Year Bible Readings

1 Samuel 24:1-25:44 + John 10:22-42 + Psalm 116:1-19 + Proverbs 15:20-21
~ Click here to read today's Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today's Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament - Interesting chapters today!  David is essentially put to the test by God over the next 3 chapters - 2 tests today and 1 tomorrow.  And the test is this - obedience.  You'll recall that Saul fails the test of obedience early in his kingship.  David passes the tests - he does not kill Saul and he does not kill Nabal.  He could have killed both.  First Samuel 24 verses 5 through 7 are a great look at David's character when Saul was in the cave - "But then David's conscience began bothering him because he had cut Saul's robe. "The LORD knows I shouldn't have done it," he said to his men. "It is a serious thing to attack the LORD's anointed one, for the LORD himself has chosen him." So David sharply rebuked his men and did not let them kill Saul."

How impressive is Abigail in First Samuel chapter 25!  Her speech to David in verses 24 through 30 is awesome.  She takes all the blame.  Calls out Nabal.  Gives David gifts.  And smartly lets him know he doesn't need this blood on his hands.  David is clearly impressed.   Below is Dutch artist Jacob Willemsz de Wet's painting from the 17th century titled "The Meeting of David and Abigail":

Bible.org's commentary on today's First Samuel readings titled "A Time to Kill, or Not" is at this link and "Dear Abby" is at this link.

New Testament - John chapter 10 verse 30 is a powerful teaching from Jesus! "The Father and I are one."  Many churches celebrate Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles in the Upper Room after Jesus' ascension into heaven.  Thus, rounding out the Trinity. (Bible.org has a great overview of the Trinity at this link.)  The Father.  The Son.  And the Holy Spirit.  Do you believe Jesus when he says, ""The Father and I are one" ?  Jesus smartly quotes from Psalm 82 verse 6 in verses 34-36 today: "Jesus replied, "It is written in your own law that God said to certain leaders of the people, `I say, you are gods!' And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people, who received God's message, were called `gods,' why do you call it blasphemy when the Holy One who was sent into the world by the Father says, `I am the Son of God'?"

Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in John titled "The Sovereign Shepherd" is at this link.

Psalms - Psalm 116 verses 1 & 2 are amazing- "I love the LORD because he hears and answers my prayers.  Because he bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I have breath!" How is your prayer life these days?  Do you believe God bends down and listens to your prayers?  And answers them?   Will you pray as long as you have breath?

Proverbs - Wow.  Proverbs 15 verse 21 is convicting to me - "Foolishness brings joy to those who have no sense; a sensible person stays on the right path."  Sometimes in the past I got joy from foolishness... not a good sign!  And yes, I noticed sometimes that when I was getting joy from foolishness I was no longer on the right path...  I'd strayed off a bit...   God brought me back and welcomed me back on the right path once I got my senses.  I pray we can avoid foolishness and the fake joy that comes with it.  There is a difference I believe between healthy rest & play - and foolishness.  We should know better.

Worship Video: Today's Proverb reminds me of the wisdom in Rebecca St. James' beautiful song "You are Loved:"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq0gtxumSrU

Do you know that you are loved? Click here for LOVE!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: "I and the Father are one." John 10:30 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you fully know and realize that Jesus is God. Pray and worship Jesus as God. Pray to the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in thanksgiving for their blessed Trinitarian nature.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  How are you doing with discerning the difference between healthy rest & play and foolishness in your life today?  Do you ever veer toward foolishness?  Why do you suppose this happens?   Is this healthy?  What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings?  Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our One Year Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 - Download a schedule of our One Year Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 - I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this One Year Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!