Old Testament reading: Isaiah 3-5

God will humble the proud. Isaiah’s description of Judah in chapter 3 is of a nation that is rich with goods but bankrupt in godliness (sound familiar?). Thus, the latter poverty will lead to poverty in the former. God will remove Judah “lock, stock and barrel” (3:1-3). Not only will Judah be bereft of her luxuries and life’s necessities, God will also remove the men from among her. Isaiah 4:1 belongs with chapter 3, wherein the final statement of the curse upon Judah’s women is seen. Namely, there aren’t nearly enough men to provide husbands for the women. Seeking to remove the reproach of their singleness, and its associated curse of barrenness, seven women will seek to join themselves as the wives one man, forfeiting even their rights to receive daily provisions at his hand (cf Ex 21:10). Isaiah 4:2-6 declares the glory of the remnant (4:2-3, cf 1:9) which remains in Jerusalem. These glories include holiness, the remission of sins, the guidance of the Lord (pictured in the pillar of cloud and fire), and the everlasting tabernacle of refuge (the church – Heb 9:11). This glory is made possible through “the Branch of the Lord,” which Branch is Jesus the Christ (cf Isa 11:1; Jer 23:5-6; Zech 3:8).

New Testament reading: 1 Timothy 4-6

Honor and double honor. In capter 5 are seen two situations that were common in the early church but are nearly unheard of in the present American church. In chapter 5 we see widows and elders are worthy of honor. 1 Timothy 5:3-16 notes the qualifications for those widows who would be taken into the number (v 9). By honor, Paul means to support or sustain, that is, provide life’s necessities. While I am certain that such support is more commonplace in regions of great poverty (e.g., India), in today’s American culture we have been blessed so as not to be “burdened” by widows (v 16). For this we should be thankful, but there is an admonition to be considered: would the local church give up some or all of her overseas mission works to care for one of their own? It seems the Bible teaches us that taking care of the home folks gets priority in these situations. Lord willing, we will look at the “double honor” due to elders in our next reading of this text (Day 345).

Old Testament reading: Isaiah 1-2

The primary work of the prophet was to preach God’s word to the people. We tend to think of the prophets’ work as in terms of predicting the future, but this was only a small portion of their calling. God referred to Moses as a prophet (Deut 18:18-20), and identified Jesus as a prophet in that same text, but this was not because they were seers. Rather, it was because they were givers and teachers of God’s word. Concerning the book of Isaiah, chapter 1 stands alone as a single text. It begins with a scathing rebuke of Judah for her rebellion against God. Isaiah describes the entire nation as a body covered with putrid sores from head to foot, infected and oozing as they are neither treated with bandage or ointment. Quite a disgusting thought! The prophet then likens them to Sodom and Gomorrah, informing them that their worship and sacrifices are worthless so long as they persist in iniquity (1:10-15). Even so, verses 16-20 offer redemption and hope if the people will repent. What a beautiful picture of the love and longsuffering of God! No sinner, regardless of how vile he may be, is beyond the reach of God’s love and mercy.

New Testament reading: 2 Thessalonians; 1 Timothy 1-3

On his second journey to Lystra, Paul met a young man who would forever be linked with the great apostle (Acts 16:1-5). But what Timothy possessed in ability he apparently lacked in courage (1 Tim 4:14, 2 Tim 1:6-7). Nevertheless, he was a man full of faith and sincere affection for the brethren (cf Phil 2:19-23). Paul often needed and received encouragement from the Lord (Acts 18:9-10; 23:11, cf 2 Tim 4:17). Now, the older, experienced soldier of the cross imparts the same to his young prodigy. Paul reminds Timothy of his own sordid past, reminding Timothy that he was not always the true soldier of the cross that Timothy had always known. Timothy could take courage in Paul’s transformation which was made possible only through the grace of God. The lesson for us might be that those of us who have had similar struggles in our former lives can encourage others to overcome their own obstacles, pointing them to the grace of God that was made manifest in our own lives, and assuring them that same grace is available and sufficient for themselves.

Old Testament reading: Song of Solomon 7-8

Our inspired “chick flick” comes to a beautiful conclusion. The Beloved again reaches into his pouch of praises to sing of the Shulammite’s beauty. Drawing from some of his accolades in chapter 4, chapter 7 repeats some of the earlier descriptions and adds more that seem just as odd: “Your waist is a heap of wheat set about with lilies.” Others are not as difficult for me to decipher, “How beautiful are your feet in sandals,” (no man wants his girl to have ugly feet!) and, “your navel is a rounded goblet,” and, “your eyes are like the pools in Heshbon.” Finally, “Your hair of your head is like purple; a king is held captive by your tresses.” I don’t think I shall attempt to flatter my wife with any of these! In chapter 8 we see the Shulammite and her Beloved coming home together. Whereas she had begun this journey in the chambers of the king (1:4), she now arrives as home, passing through the wilderness, leaning on the arm of her one true love. True love triumphs in the end! Someone grab me a tissue.

New Testament reading: 1 Thessalonians

“He can’t get along with anyone.” This was the sad commentary on the life of Nabal in 1 Samuel 25. How much more tragic is it when an entire nation of people can’t get along with anyone! Such is Paul’s description of Israel in 1 Thessalonians 2:14-15. Paul encourages the brethren by letting them know that their sufferings at the hands of their countrymen are not unlike the Christians in Judea. Paul explained that the Jews killed Jesus and their own prophets, as well as persecuting his company. Paul put the nail in the coffin when he said of them, “they do not please God and are contrary to all men.” The Jews couldn’t get along with anyone, not even themselves. Like a churlish man who is continually embroiled in controversy, so also were the Jews. Finally, Paul speaks to the fruit of the Jews’ graceless lives, that “wrath has come upon them to the uttermost” (2:16). This may be a reference to their recent history of subjugation, but is more likely an allusion to the destruction of Jerusalem soon to be accomplished. Contrast this with followers of Christ who, exercising the wisdom of God, are “peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (Jam 3:17).

Old Testament reading: Song of Solomon 4-6

Chapter 4 begins the Beloved’s response to Solomon’s advances toward his Shulammite love. While Solomon offers the finest of this world’s goods (3:9-11), the Beloved offers his sincere and pure love and affection. While his various descriptions of the Shulammite’s beauty (4:1-4) seem odd to us today, we must remember that these objects were held in the highest esteem in the culture in which they are given. Without attempting to interpret the meaning of these, suffice it to say the Beloved is using the strongest and most descriptive words possible, and certainly words that would have been well received by the Shulammite. Likewise, the Shulammite also describes the beauty of her Beloved in 5:10-16. Again, while we might not understand the descriptions, they were obviously quite moving. Note how her description of the Beloved incites the Daughters of Jerusalem to seek out the Beloved that they might behold his beauty (6:1). A lesson for married couples can be seen in this text as well. Our eyes should be stayed on our mates, considering the true beauty and those things by which our affections are aroused. I am reminded of the words of Solomon in Proverbs 5:15-19 – “Drink water from your own cistern and running water from your own well… rejoice with the wife of your youth, as a loving deer and a graceful doe; let her breasts satisfy you at all times, and always be enraptured by her love” (cf SS 4:5).

New Testament reading: Colossians

Twice in Colossians 1 we see the result when God’s people take to heart the Great Commission. Twice in this first chapter we are told that the early Christians preached the gospel to the entire world within one generation of Pentecost (1:6, 23). Paul also affirmed this reality in Romans 10:16-18. How was this done without all the modern means of mass communication? Hint – the answer is found in Acts 8:4. What a shame that we, with all the means at our disposal, haven’t begun to commence to start preaching the gospel to the whole world! We have accepted a great task and responsibility in receiving the Great Commission. No generation has had more tools at its disposal. We just need the heart and faith of those early brethren!

Old Testament reading: Song of Solomon 1-3

Today we begin the “raciest” book in the Bible. Even among the Jews some have opposed the inclusion of the book among the canon because of its sensual themes. Also, like Esther, the book contains no mention of the name of God. The book has three central characters: the king (Solomon), a Shulammite virgin and her beloved (a shepherd). How to understand the book continues to be a source of disagreement, even among conservative scholars. Among the Jews, it was understood as God’s love for Israel amidst the wooings of the Gentiles and their idolatry. Many Christians understand it as an allegory depicting Christ’s love for the church amidst the temptations of the world. Whatever its meaning for us today, I hardly think Solomon intended himself to be “the bad guy” in the story! One great lesson for married couples is found in 2:15, “Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines.” We must be no guard against the little things that can destroy the foundation of a good marriage. Note the foxes do not plunder the fruit, but rather were a threat to the fruit by damaging the vine. Little problems unaddressed can lead to total crop failure!

New Testament reading: Philippians

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” There is no higher calling, no higher goal for which we must strive than this one given in Philippians 2:5. In our “What do you have to offer me?” world, Christians would do well to spend some time with this verse and the three that follow. The “serve me” mentality has found its way into the body of Christ. Families move into communities looking for a congregation “that meets our needs.” Instead of asking, “What kind of youth program do you have?”, would it not be better to ask, “Is this a place where we can faithfully serve God and do the greatest good?” Jesus did not come into the world looking for someone or some program to meet His needs. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matt 20:28). As we read this portion of the text, let us consider the things our Lord left behind to come and live on this earth, and what he came to do. In so doing, we will develop a greater love for God and a more proper view of self.

 Old Testament reading: Ecclesiastes 8-12

“I know he’s up there somewhere watching me today.” Such words are often spoken by athletes and others who perform after losing a loved one. Most folks believe the deceased can still see them today. But can they? Our reading today says “No.” Speaking of the dead, the Preacher says, “Nevermore will they have a share in anything done under the sun” (9:6). You recall from yesterday’s reading that “under the sun” means the events and deeds done upon the earth. Thus, the dead do not see what transpires on earth. There is also another error concerning the dead that needs to be addressed from this text, particularly Ecclesiastes 9:5 – “For the living know that they shall die, but the dead know nothing.” Some point to this text to teach that the dead are not in a conscious state, but are instead “sleeping” until the Judgment. Again, the context is modified by “under the sun.” Jesus was clear concerning the conscious state of the dead, both good and evil, in Luke 16:19-31 in the account of the rich man and Lazarus. Both men died and were conscious within the hadean realm.

New Testament reading: Ephesians 4-6

Are you walking the walks? Ephesians 5 presents three divinely mandated walks that all must make. The first is the walk of love (5:1-7). This walk is a walk of purity in view of the pure sacrifice of Jesus Christ (v 2). The walk of love avoids all forms of fornication and uncleanness with all sins of the tongue (vv 3-4). The walk of love is a walk of thanksgiving (v 4). The second walk is the walk of light (v 8). The walk of light avoids all forms and paths of darkness, seeking to know what is acceptable to the Lord (vv 8-10). The walk of light avoids evil companionship (cf 1 Cor 15:33) and seeks to persuade the wicked (v 11). Finally, there is the walk of wisdom. One cannot walk in wisdom until he first walks in love and light, for without the love of God and light of Christ, there is no wisdom. The walk of wisdom recognizes the brevity of life and redeems the time (cf Ps 90:12). The walk of wisdom recognizes the brevity of life and redeems the time (cf Ps 90:12). Those who walk in wisdom are also diligent to keeps their minds free of corrupting influences (v 18). These walks are great exercises for the soul!

Old Testament reading: Ecclesiastes 4-7

Today’s reading makes a transition from the experience of the Preacher to a collection of maxims and admonitions akin to those found in Proverbs. The emptiness of the Preacher is seen in his repeated statements concerning the superiority of death over life: “I praised the dead who were already dead more than the living who are still alive” (4:2). So empty is the Preacher’s soul that he says a man never born is better than both the dead and the living, as he has never seen the futility of evil in the world (4:3). On a more favorable note, the Preacher rightfully declares that all men, rich and poor, are on equal ground in matters of living and dying: “Do not all go to one place?” (6:6). Of note here – the phrase “under the sun” appears 29 times in this book. It should be understood as being among the living in the world, that is, on the face of the earth. A proper understanding of this phrase will help dispel some errors concerning the dead that will be noted in our next reading. See you then!

New Testament reading: Ephesians 1-3

The church is not God’s “Plan B.” This may sound odd, but this view of the church is held by millions who espouse premillennialiam. Those believing this error cannot have a high view of the church. This doctrine affirms that Jesus failed to establish a physical kingdom in His first earthly visit and set up the church as a temporary kingdom until He comes the second time to do what He failed to do the first. But this is not Paul’s view of the church. Rather, Paul teaches us in that the church is a vital part of God’s eternal purpose (Eph 3:9-11). How important is the church? It is the chosen mouthpiece of God to make known His wisdom to the world and to “principalities and powers in heavenly places.” God did not disclose His will to the angels. Instead, God’s wisdom as manifest in the gospel was revealed to them as it unfolded in the life of the church (cf 1 Pet 1:10-12). How highly does God think of the church? Jesus died to purchase it with His blood (Acts 20:28), and God will destroy those who defile it (1 Cor 3:16-17). The church is the body of Christ, the fulness of Him who fills all in all (Eph 1:22-23). “To Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever, Amen” (Eph 3:21).

Old Testament reading: Ecclesiastes 1-3

“Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!” Hardly sounds like a man with all the world has to offer. Yet, that is exactly who it is – Solomon, the son of David, king in Jerusalem (1:1). However, it sounds exactly like a man who has nothing the Lord has to offer. “Vanity” means “futility.” In chapter 2, Solomon laments the futility of human wisdom by detailing the means by which he sought joy. Among these: 1) Mirth = the pursuit of pleasure. Solomon sought to do only those things that made him happy. This left him empty. 2) Alcohol – Some years ago a beer company had as its catch phrase, “It just doesn’t get any better than this.” Solomon disproved that foolishness 3000 years ago. 3) Construction & Agriculture – There is a great deal of satisfaction in constructing buildings or other projects. As one who tends a large garden each year, I know the pride of reaping the labor of one’s hands and having produce to help others. But my sense of self worth cannot be founded in my own labors, else what shall I do in time of drought? 4) Wealth – Solomon gathered gold in such abundance that silver was considered as no better than a stone on the ground, not worth picking up (1 Kgs 10:21). Solomon also had unique treasures, but none of these can satisfy a man’s heart. Only God can fill that void.

New Testament reading: Galatians 4-6

Who would trade Isaac for Ishmael or Sarah for Hagar? This is the question Paul asks in Galatians 4 as he speaks of the symbolism of the birth of Abraham’s first two children. The foundation for the argument was laid in chapter 3 as Paul spoke to the superiority of the Christian system of faith over the Mosaic: first by noting that the Spirit did not come through the Law of Moses but rather through the Law of Christ (the hearing of faith), then by labeling the Mosaic Law a shadow (an image of but lacking lasting substance) of the Law of Christ. Paul further emphasizes the superiority of Christianity over Judaism by equating the Law of Moses with the natural son of Hagar while identifying Christianity with Isaac, the miraculous child of promise. These pictures should be remembered every time someone attempts to integrate some aspect of the Mosaic Law into the Christian system or appeals to the Mosaic Law in defense of some practice that has found its way into what is claimed as Christian worship.

Old Testament reading: Proverbs 30-31

There shall be no comment on the Virtuous Woman of Proverbs 31 except to say that no one woman does ALL of these things. This is a list of characteristics that can be found in a woman of virtue, as opposed to many of the negative things we have read concerning some women (11:22; 21:9; 27:15). There are two other texts in today’s reading that are quite worthy of thought. The first is found in 30:7-9, wherein the author (Agur, 30:1) desires two things: 1) purity from falsehood and lies; 2) no more or less than life’s necessities – “give me neither poverty nor riches.” Agur knew that the wealthy tended to trust in themselves and deny God (cf Deut 8:10-17), while the poor are prone to steal and profane the name of God. Also of interest in this text is Proverbs 30:15-16 and the leech’s daughters, Give and Give. Of the four things that are never satisfied, the most tragic is the barren womb. Most parents cannot understand or sympathize with those couples who cannot conceive. I readily admit my own miserable failure in this respect. I have wept and prayed for those who earnestly desire the blessing of children, but I have no idea the pain they feel. These alone can understand Hannah’s pain and the continual emptiness that was in her heart (cf 1 Sam 1). Statements like, “It’s just not in God’s will” may be well intended but should be kept to oneself.

New Testament reading: Galatians 1-3

A basic rule of Bible interpretation is on display in today’s reading. Whenever a verse begins with the word “for,” it indicates that what one is about to read is an explanation of what was just read. Galatians 3:26 says we are “sons of God through the faith in Christ Jesus.” “The faith” is the more accurate rendering, though most translations fail to include the definite article. Tragically, many stop there to justify their belief in salvation by faith only. Verse 27 begins with “For,” meaning an explanation of verse 26 is forthcoming. What we find there is the  shows that it is through obedience to the faith v 26, including baptism into Christ for remission of sins, that one can be a child of God and an heir of the promise made to Abraham (3:26-29).

Old Testament reading:  Proverbs 28-29.

“Everyone has the right to pray.” Most folks believe this, but it is not so. So says the inspired writer in Proverbs 28:9: “If any man turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.” It is unthinkable to most religious people that a man’s prayer would not be heard and accepted by God, much less be an abomination before Him. It was probably this verse the formerly blind man had in mind in John 9:31 when he is recorded as saying, “Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him.” We must listen to God if we want Him to listen to us. By listening to God I mean we must seek to know and obey His will. When Samuel said to God, “Speak Lord, your servant hears,” he was implying that he would listen to and obey whatever God was about to command. Finally, prayer is a spiritual blessing. And as all spiritual blessings belong to those who are in Christ (Eph 1:3), only those who are in Christ enjoy the privilege and blessing of prayer. Only faithful Christians have access to the throne of God (Heb 4:15-16) and the mediation of Jesus (1 Tim 2:6).

New Testament reading: 2 Corinthians 11-13

I love Paul’s jealousy over the church at Corinth. He was not jealous for himself, as the church did not belong to him. Rather, he was afraid the Corinthians would allow their relationship with Christ to be spoiled by the Devil. Specifically, he feared their pure minds would be corrupted by false doctrine. The word here rendered “virgin” is used in two senses in the New Testament. First, it is used in the traditional sense of a woman who has kept herself pure from sexual defilement (cf Matt 1:23). Second, it is used of those in the church who are undefiled in their relationship with Jesus (cf Rev 14:4). Note how Paul’s concern is expressed to the entire church in plural form: “I am jealous for you” (plural), and “I have betrothed you” (plural). Yet, the betrothal to one husband (Christ) was spoken in a singular sense, as “virgin” appears in the singular form. Paul’s desire was to present the entire church as a single, chaste entity. Thus, it behooves every single member to commit himself to personal purity, lest the purity of the collective become defiled.