We need courage to do what’s right—to judge rightly, to face critics, and to leave results with God. Jehoshaphat’s dangerous misstep in the battle at Ramoth Gilead received a rebuke when he returned to Jerusalem. Intercepted before he could reach the palace, “Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him” (2 Chron 19:2). […]
Read More… from December 12, 2024 — The “Good Things” In Jehoshaphat
I recall seeing a Charles Shultz cartoon with two students talking. One says to the other, “I think I’ve discovered the secret to understanding the Bible. I’ve started reading it.” America is flooded with Bibles. Almost nine out of ten households own a Bible, according to the American Bible Society. But reading it? Not so […]
What’s better than being rescued when we cry out? When we see the danger signs, and Keep Out! Ramoth Gilead (Heb, Rāmōt Gil‘ād), meaning “the heights of Gilead,” sits in a commanding position on the north bank of the Jabbok River. It isn’t far from Peniel, where Jacob wrestled with the Man, or from Mahanaim, where […]
“The waywardness of the naive will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them” (Prov 1:32, ISV). This episode showcases the proverb that “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished” (Prov 22:3). Believers tend to be trusting, although it’s a hard fact that some people shouldn’t be […]
He was a bitter Christian…and then there was Caleb. When hard things come your way, will you choose to become bitter…or better, by God’s grace? […]
Did God use deception against Ahab? Hardly. He revealed the plan—if only he would listen. At the gates of Samaria the big meeting was held. Or so they thought. Two kings. Four hundred prophets. All very dramatic. One of Ahab’s false prophets even brought along visual aids. “Zedekiah…made horns of iron…and he said, ‘Thus says the […]
Read More… from December 9, 2024 — When A Lie Exposes The Truth
P.P. Bliss is one of the Church’s favorite hymn writers. Who would know that last words he wrote would be such a fitting testimony of faith in God. […]