Friday, May 31, 2024

Matthew 1-2

Scripture – Matthew 1-2

Observation – 

  • Matthew 1:1-17 - The genealogy of Jesus Christ
    • Matthew 1:1 - The intro
    • Matthew 1:2-16 - Jesus' Genealogy through Joseph.
    • Matthew 1:17 - Matthew's organization
  • Matthew 1:18-25 - The birth of Jesus
    • Matthew 1:18 - Mary is pregnant without getting married
    • Matthew 1:19 - Joseph seeks a quiet divorce
    • Matthew 1:20-21 - An angel speaks to Joseph and convinces him to not divorce 
    • Matthew 1:22-23 - The fulfillment of the prophecy
    • Matthew 1:24-25 - Joseph marries Mary after the announcement
  • Matthew 2:1-12 - Wise men come to honor Jesus
    • Matthew 2:1-2 - The wise men arrive in Jerusalem
    • Matthew 2:3 - Herod is troubled
    • Matthew 2:4-6 - Herod is instructed regarding where the Messiah was to born.
    • Matthew 2:7-8 - Herod attempts to kill Jesus by getting info from the wise men
    • Matthew 2:9-12 - The wise men present gifts to Jesus and leave.
  • Matthew 2:13-23 - The fleeing to Egypt
    • Matthew 2:13-15 - Joseph, Mary, and Jesus find refuge in Egypt
    • Matthew 2:16-18 - The massacre of the babies
    • Matthew 2:19-21 - Joseph, Mary, and Jesus return
    • Matthew 2:22-23 - The family settles in Nazareth because of Herod's son

Application – Do God's will even if it will cost you something (reputation). God keeps his word.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to do your will even if it might cost me something. Help me to do your will when it is hard and requires time and work. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Do God's will even at the cost of your reputation like Joseph.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Jesus is born through a miracle.


 

Thursday, May 30, 2024

1 Samuel 23-24

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 23-24

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 23:1-13 - David saves Keliah from the philistines 
    • 1 Samuel 23:1-4 - God directs David to fight the Philistines and save the city of Keliah.
    • 1 Samuel 23:5 - David rescues the people of Keliah
    • 1 Samuel 23:6-8 - Saul comes against David at Keliah
    • 1 Samuel 23:9-13 - David escapes
  • 1 Samuel 23:14-29 - David barely escapes Saul
    • 1 Samuel 23:14-15 - David takes refuge in Ziph
    • 1 Samuel 23:16-17 - Jonathan and David meet for the last time
    • 1 Samuel 23:18 - Jonathan lets David be king
    • 1 Samuel 23:19-23 - The Ziphites betray David
    • 1 Samuel 23:24-29 - Davids dramatic, narrow escape
  • 1 Samuel 24:1-7 - David doesn't kill Saul when he has the chance
    • 1 Samuel 24:1-2 - Saul seeks David in the wilderness
    • 1 Samuel 24:3 - Saul unknowingly goes into the cave David is hiding in
    • 1 Samuel 24:4-7 - David restrains himself and his men from killing Saul
  • 1 Samuel 24:8-15 - David appeals to Saul.
    • 1 Samuel 24:8 - David reveals where he is
    • 1 Samuel 24:9-15 - David's speech
  • 1 Samuel 24:16-22 - Saul's reaction
    • 1 Samuel 24:16-19 - Saul honors David's mercy towards him
    • 1 Samuel 24:20-22 - Saul looks to the future

Application – Be such a loyal friend that you are willing to do something at the cost of yourself.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to be a loyal friend like Jonathan, who despite his lineage, lets David have the throne because of their friendship. Help me to have that attitude like Jonathan. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Have good friendships like Jonathan and David.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul stops chasing David because of David's mercy to Saul.


Wednesday, May 29, 2024

1 Samuel 21-22

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 21-22

Observation –  

  • 1 Samuel 21:1-9 - David meets Ahimelech the priest at Nob.
    • 1 Samuel 21:1-2 - David flees to Nob
    • 1 Samuel 21:3-6 - David asks and receives holy bread
    • 1 Samuel 21:7-9 - David receives a sword and is spotted by an official of Saul
  • 1 Samuel 21:10-15 - David flees to Gath
    • 1 Samuel 21:10 - David flees to Gath
    • 1 Samuel 21:11-12 - David is found in Gath
    • 1 Samuel 21:13-15 - David pretends to be mad to escape.
  • 1 Samuel 22:1-5 - David at Adullam cave
    • 1 Samuel 22:1a - David's distress at Adullam
    • 1 Samuel 22:1b-2 - Others gather at Adullam cave
    • 1 Samuel 22:3-4 - David cares for his parents
    • 1 Samuel 22:5 - David hears from the prophet Gad
  • 1 Samuel 22:6-23 - Saul murders the priests
    • 1 Samuel 22:6-8 - Saul accuses his aides of treason
    • 1 Samuel 22:9-10 - Doeg reports on Ahimelech and David to King Saul.
    • 1 Samuel 22:11-15 - Saul accuses Ahimelech of conspiracy with David
    • 1 Samuel 22:16-19 - Saul commands the execution of the priests and their families
    • 1 Samuel 22:20-23 - David protects Abiathar, the only survivor of Ahimelech’s family.

Application – Care for your parents. Care for those who are survivors. 

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to care for those around me. Help me to care for those who are in need and those who are in trouble. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Care for others like David.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – David escapes to Adullam cave and saves his parents and Abiathar.


Tuesday, May 28, 2024

1 Samuel 20

Scripture – 1 Samuel 20

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 20:1-11 - David meets with Jonathan
    • 1 Samuel 20:1-4 - David asks Jonathan about Saul's intentions and Jonathan vows to help him
    • 1 Samuel 20:5-11 - David proposes to test Saul's attitude
  • 1 Samuel 20:12-23 - Jonathan's agreement
    • 1 Samuel 20:12-13 - Jonathan will discover his father's heart to David
    • 1 Samuel 20:14-17 - Jonathan asks David for a covenant
    • 1 Samuel 20:18-23 - Jonathan proposes a signal to inform David of Saul’s reaction.
  • 1 Samuel 20:24-42 - Saul's hatred to David
    • 1 Samuel 20:24-34 - Saul is enraged at David's absence
    • 1 Samuel 20:35-40 - Jonathan reports to David through the signal of the arrows.
    • 1 Samuel 20:41-42 - The tearful farewell of David and Jonathan.

Application – Loyalty to your friends, even in stressful and risky times, are important.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to not be a fair weather friend but be loyal to my friends when they are in need or are in hard times. Help me to be with them in the good and the bad. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Have a loyal friendship like David and Jonathan

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – David and Jonathan learn of Saul's anger to David.



 

Friday, May 24, 2024

1 Samuel 18-19

Scripture – 1 Samuel 18-19

Observation –

  • 1 Samuel 18:1-9 - David, Jonathan, Saul
    • 1 Samuel 18:1-4 - The friendship of David and Jonathan: Loved each other as himself. 
    • 1 Samuel 18:5-9 - Saul's jealousy of David
  • 1 Samuel 18:10-16 - Saul's first attempt at murder
    • 1 Samuel 18:10 - An evil spirit came upon Saul
    • 1 Samuel 18:11 - Saul throws a spear at David
    • 1 Samuel 18:12-16 - David is transferred from the palace to the army.
  • 1 Samuel 18:17-30 - Saul sets a trap for David
    • 1 Samuel 18:17-19 - Saul intends to kill David
    • 1 Samuel 18:20-25 - David's agreement to marry Michal
    • 1 Samuel 18:26-27 - David fulfills Saul’s request for a dowry and marries Michal.
    • 1 Samuel 18:28-30 - David's growing popularity
  • 1 Samuel 19:1-10 - Jonathan defends David from Saul
    • 1 Samuel 19:1a - Saul plots the murder of David, enlisting Jonathan and his servants
    • 1 Samuel 19:1b- 3 - Jonathan warns David
    • 1 Samuel 19:4-5 - Jonathan speaks to Saul with loyalty to David
    • 1 Samuel 19:6-7 - Reconciliation with Saul and David
    • 1 Samuel 19:8-10 - David escapes another attempt on his life.
  • 1 Samuel 19:11-17 - David flees from Saul
    • 1 Samuel 19:11-12 - David escapes with help from Michal
    • 1 Samuel 19:13-17 - Michal deceives the men who came to kill David
  • 1 Samuel 19:18-24 - David flees to Naioth
    • 1 Samuel 19:18 - David meets with Samuel
    • 1 Samuel 19:19-21 - Saul sends messengers to capture David, but prophesy in the presence of Samuel and other prophets instead
    • 1 Samuel 19:22-24 - Saul pursues David but also prophesies.

Application – God is with you in the good and the bad. It is important to have good loyal friends.

Prayer – Dear God. You are a faithful God. You were with David in the good times and in the bad times. Help me to be faithful like you. To be faithful to my friends and to choose good friends. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Failing to keep your promises.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Be loyal friends like Jonathan and David.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul attacks David multiple times but is saved by God



Thursday, May 23, 2024

1 Samuel 17:20-58

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 17:20-58

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 17:20-30 - David's challenge
    • 1 Samuel 17:20-21 - David gets to the camp
    • 1 Samuel 17:22-24 - David sees Goliath's challenge and the fear of Israel's soldiers
    • 1 Samuel 17:25-27 - David hears of Saul's reward but speaks of God's honor.
    • 1 Samuel 17:28-30 - David is misunderstood and accused
  • 1 Samuel 17:31-40 - David prepares to defeat Goliath
    • 1 Samuel 17:31-32 - David's confident words are known to Saul
    • 1 Samuel 17:33-37 - David's training as shepherd prepared him
    • 1 Samuel 17:38-40 - David gets ready
  • 1 Samuel 17:41-58 - David defeats Goliath
    • 1 Samuel 17:41-44 - Goliath curses David and God
    • 1 Samuel 17:45-47 - David replies to Goliath with faith
    • 1 Samuel 17:48-49 - David kills Goliath
    • 1 Samuel 17:50-54 - David beheads Goliath and the Israelites attack the philistines
    • 1 Samuel 17:55-58 - Saul meets David

Application – Be bold in God not in yourself. Don't trust in your earthly weapons or things.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to be bold for you like David was. I know I can't do hard things by myself. I can only do them with your help. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Not trusting in God. Trusting in your own things.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't trust in your own earthly things.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – David defeats Goliath because of God.


Wednesday, May 22, 2024

1 Samuel 16 – 17:1-19

Scripture – 1 Samuel 16 – 17:1-19

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 16:1-13 - Samuel anoints David as king.
    • 1 Samuel 16:1-3 - God tells Samuel to go and anoint a new king over Israel.
    • 1 Samuel 16:4-5 - Samuel goes to sacrifice at Bethlehem
    • 1 Samuel 16:6-10 - Samuel doesn't choose any of Jesse's older sons
    • 1 Samuel 16:11 - Samuel asks about the absent son
    • 1 Samuel 16:12-13 - David is chosen and anointed
  • 1 Samuel 16:14-23 - Saul is bothered by a demon
    • 1 Samuel 16:14 - Saul is bothered by a spirit sent by God.
    • 1 Samuel 16:15-17 - They call for a skilled music player
    • 1 Samuel 16:18 - David is chosen
    • 1 Samuel 16:19-23 - David enters Saul's court
  • 1 Samuel 17:1-11 - Goliath challenges Israel
    • 1 Samuel 17:1-10 - Goliath challenges Israel
    • 1 Samuel 17:11 - Saul and Israel were afraid
  • 1 Samuel 17:12-19 - David is sent with food for his brothers

Application – People look outwardly, but God looks at the heart.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to not care about my appearance as much as I care about my heart. Help me to have a godly attitude to those around me rather than looking good. Help me to be godly before looking good. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Only focusing on appearance.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Be like David who had a godly heart.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – A new king is chosen and a new challenger approaches.


 

Monday, May 20, 2024

1 Samuel 15

Scripture – 1 Samuel 15

Observation –

  •  1 Samuel 15:1-16 - Battle against the Amalekites
    • 1 Samuel 15:1-3 - A command: Destroy the Amalekites
    • 1 Samuel 15:4-6 - Saul prepares his attack
    • 1 Samuel 15:7-9 - Saul attacks the Amalekites
    • 1 Samuel 15:10-11 - God regrets that he made Saul king.
    • 1 Samuel 15:12-13 - Saul claims full obedience.
    • 1 Samuel 15:14-16 -Saul "explains" his sin to Samuel
  • 1 Samuel 15:17-35 - Saul is rejected as king
    • 1 Samuel 15:17-21 - The charge against Saul; you've become arrogant, and his weak defense.
    • 1 Samuel 15:22-23 - Samuel prophesizes judgement from God to Saul.
    • 1 Samuel 15:24-25 - Saul's weak effort toward repentance
    • 1 Samuel 15:26-31 - God's rejection of Saul as king.
    • 1 Samuel 15:32-33 - Samuel finishes what Saul should've done.
    • 1 Samuel 15:34-35 - The split between Samuel and Saul.

Application – We cannot excuse ourselves from what God had clearly commanded us. Be careful of claiming that you have obeyed fully when you haven't

Prayer – Dear God. Your word is true and straightforward. Help me to not make excuses like Saul did. But instead take responsibility for my actions. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Failing to take responsibility. Making excuses. 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't make excuses or fail to take responsibility like Saul.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul disobeys God and is judged.


 

Friday, May 17, 2024

1 Samuel 14:16-52

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 14:16-52

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 14:16-23 - The battle is won
    • 1 Samuel 14:16-19 - Saul learns of the battle
    • 1 Samuel 14:20-23 - Saul fights in the battle
  • 1 Samuel 14:24-52 - Saul's foolish oath
    • 1 Samuel 14:24 - Saul compels the army to not eat until he gets revenge
    • 1 Samuel 14:25-30 - Jonathan unknowingly breaks the oath by eating
    • 1 Samuel 14:31-35 - The soldiers of Israel sin because of Saul's foolish oath
    • 1 Samuel 14:36-39 - Saul makes another foolish oath in response to God's silence
    • 1 Samuel 14:40-44 - Jonathan is found by the casting of lots
    • 1 Samuel 14:45-46 - The people rescue Jonathan from execution
    • 1 Samuel 14:47-52 - Saul's many wars and his family.

Application – It is important to not make rash oaths because you don't get what you want.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to not make rash oaths because I want something. Help me to read the bible and gain wisdom before making oaths. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Making rash oaths.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't make rash oaths like Saul.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul makes many rash oaths.


Thursday, May 16, 2024

1 Samuel 13 and 14:1-15

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 13 and 14:1-15

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 13:1-7 - The philistine threat.
    • 1 Samuel 13:1-2 - Saul assembles Israel's army.
    • 1 Samuel 13:3-4 - Jonathan initiates conflict with the Philistines.
    • 1 Samuel 13:5-7 - The philistines prepare their army.
  • 1 Samuel 13:8-14 - Saul's unlawful sacrifice.
    • 1 Samuel 13:8-9 - Saul offers a burnt offering
    • 1 Samuel 13:10-12 - Samuel arrives and Saul tries to explain
    • 1 Samuel 13:13-14 - Samuel proclaims God's judgement on Saul and his household
  • 1 Samuel 13:15-23 - Threat of the philistines
    • 1 Samuel 13:15-18 - The philistines begin their raids
    • 1 Samuel 13:19-23 - The superiority of the philistines.
  • 1 Samuel 14:1-15 - Jonathan's adventure in faith
    • 1 Samuel 14:1-3 - Jonathan's plan
    • 1 Samuel 14:4-5 - Jonathan position
    • 1 Samuel 14:6-7 - Jonathan's proposal
    • 1 Samuel 14:8-10 - Jonhathan looks for proof.
    • 1 Samuel 14:11-14 - Jonathan attacks with his armor bearer
    • 1 Samuel 14:15 - God attacks the philistines

Application – God rewards those who act in faith for Him. God punishes those who don't act in faith.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to act in faith and to be bold. Help me to be bold like Jonathan and his armor bearer. Help me also to be faithful like the armor bearer. To have good relationships like Jonathan had with his armor bearer.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Act in faith like Jonathan.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul assembles his army and attacks the philistines. 


Wednesday, May 15, 2024

1 Samuel 11-12

Scripture – 1 Samuel 11-12

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 11:1-11 - Saul's victory
    • 1 Samuel 11:1-2 - Nahash besieges and states terms.
    • 1 Samuel 11:3 - The elders answer
    • 1 Samuel 11:4-5 - Saul hears the plea of the elders
    • 1 Samuel 11:6-8 - The spirit of God makes Saul boldly gather an army.
    • 1 Samuel 11:9-11 - Saul defeats Nahash
  • 1 Samuel 11:12-15 - Saul's crowning
    • 1 Samuel 11:12-13 - Saul shows mercy to those who talked trash.
    • 1 Samuel 11:14-15 - Saul is accepted as king
  • 1 Samuel 12:1-5 - Samuel's testimony
    • 1 Samuel 12:1-3 - Samuel talks of his leadership
    • 1 Samuel 12:4-5 - Israel agrees with his testimony
  • 1 Samuel 12:6-25 - Samuel challenges Israel to serve God under Saul
    • 1 Samuel 12:6-12 - Samuel gives the history of Israel
    • 1 Samuel 12:13-15 - A choice: Fear God, OR Fear Man
    • 1 Samuel 12:16-18 - God confirms Samuel's word with a sign
    • 1 Samuel 12:19 - Israel sees their sin of desiring a king
    • 1 Samuel 12:20-25 - Samuel tells Israel to walk in the ways of the Lord.

Application – Show mercy to those who did wrong to you. Fear God because it is right. Be bold for God.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to show mercy to those who do wrong. To not be like a pharisee and hold others accountable when you yourself didn't hold me accountable to my countless sins. Help me to be more like you in being merciful and gracious. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Not showing mercy to those who did wrong.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Be like Saul who showed mercy to his enemies.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Saul defeats the ammonites and is appointed king.


 

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

1 Samuel 9-10

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 9-10

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 9:1-14 - Saul looks for his father's donkeys.
    • 1 Samuel 9:1-2 - Kish and his son, Saul
    • 1 Samuel 9:3-14 - Saul and his servant search for the donkeys and meet samuel
  • 1 Samuel 9:15-27 - Samuel and Saul meet
    • 1 Samuel 9:15-17 - God tells Samuel that Saul is the one.
    • 1 Samuel 9:18-21 - Samuel and Saul meet
    • 1 Samuel 9:22-24 - Samuel makes sure that Saul is honored
    • 1 Samuel 9:25-27 - Samuel and Saul talk throughout the night
  • 1 Samuel 10:1-16 - Saul is anointed king 
    • 1 Samuel 10:1 - Samuel anoints Saul
    • 1 Samuel 10:2- Samuel tells Saul of a sign to confirm the anointing as king.
    • 1 Samuel 10:3-4 - Samuel tells Saul of another sign
    • 1 Samuel 10:5-7 - Samue tells Saul of a third sign.
    • 1 Samuel 10:8 - Saul is commanded to wait for Samuel at Gilgal
    • 1 Samuel 10:9-13 - The signs come to pass
    • 1 Samuel 10:14-16 - Saul hides his experiences from his family
  • 1 Samuel 10:17-27 - Saul proclaimed king
    • 1 Samuel 10:17-19 - Samuels speech to the nation before the appointment of the king.
    • 1 Samuel 10:20-21a - Saul is selected and confirmed by lot
    • 1 Samuel 10:21b-24 - Saul is revealed to be king
    • 1 Samuel 10:25-27 - The kingdom is established.

Application – Even when we have great advantages like Saul, we might still end up badly. We need to remember and stay faithful to God throughout our lives and not just at the beginning. Finish well.

Prayer – Dear God. Help me to run the race well. To finish well rather than start well. Help me to stay faithful to you to the end. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Start well like Saul, but finish well.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – God chooses a king.


Friday, May 10, 2024

1 Samuel 7-8

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 7-8

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 7:1-6 - Samuel leads the nation in repentance 
    • 1 Samuel 7:1-2 - The ark at Kirjath Jearim.       
    • 1 Samuel 7:3-4 - Samuel preaches repentance spiritually and physically
    • 1 Samuel 7:5-6 - The nation repents
  • 1 Samuel 7:7-17 - Samuel leads the nation to victory
    • 1 Samuel 7:7 - The Philistine's threat.
    • 1 Samuel 7:8-9 - Samuel's supplication for the nation
    • 1 Samuel 7:10-12 - Israel succeeds because of the Lord.
    • 1 Samuel 7:13-14 - Samuel's success
    • 1 Samuel 7:15-17 - Samuel's service
  • 1 Samuel 8:1-9 - The people request a king
    • 1 Samuel 8:1-3 - Samuel appoints his sons as judges
    • 1 Samuel 8:4-5 - Samuel's sons are rejected and are wanted to be replaced
    • 1 Samuel 8:6-8 - Samuel prays, God answers
    • 1 Samuel 8:9 - God tells Samuel to warn the people
  • 1 Samuel 8:10-22 - Samuel speaks to the people of Israel about their desire for a king.
    • 1 Samuel 8:10-18 - Samuel warns the people about the responsibilities of having a king
    • 1 Samuel 8:19-22 - Israel demands a king despite God's warning.

Application – Do not insist on having your way when God's way is better.

Prayer – Dear God. You are a God who is always right. You are sovereign and you are all knowing. I know I don't always want to follow what you say. I don't always want to obey. Thank you for not letting me go my own way. Help me to continue to follow you. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Wanting and having your own way.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't be like the Israelites in wanting their own way.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Israel asks for a new king.v


Thursday, May 9, 2024

1 Samuel 5-6

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 5-6

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 5:1-8 - The Ark in Ashdod
    • 1 Samuel 5:1-5 - God humiliates the idol Dagon
    • 1 Samuel 5:6-8 - God hurts the city of Ashdod with tumors
  • 1 Samuel 5:9 - The Ark in Ekron
  • 1 Samuel 6:1-12 - The Philistines get rid of the Ark.
    • 1 Samuel 6:1-6 - The priests of the Philistines suggest a solution
    • 1 Samuel 6:7-9 - The Philistines test God 
    • 1 Samuel 6:10-12 - The cows go to the Land of Israel
  • 1 Samuel 6:13-21 - The Ark at Beth Shemesh
    • 1 Samuel 6:13-15 - The Ark is received with joy
    • 1 Samuel 6:16-18 - The offering included with the Ark
    • 1 Samuel 6:19 - The men of Beth Shemesh look in the ark and die
    • 1 Samuel 6:20-21 - The men of Beth Shemesh ask Kiriath-jearim to take it from them.

Application – God cannot tolerate other gods. 

Prayer – Dear God. You are the one and only God. You humiliated the idol of Dagon.  Nobody can stand against you. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Failing to get rid of other gods or idols. Testing God's holiness. 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't test God's holiness like the men of Beth Shemesh.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – God worked in miraculous ways to get the Ark back to Israel.


Wednesday, May 8, 2024

1 Samuel 3-4

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 3-4

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 3:1-9 - God speaks to Samuel
    • 1 Samuel 3:1 - The word of the Lord was rare
    • 1 Samuel 3:2-4 - God's first words to Samuel
    • 1 Samuel 3:5-9 - Samuel doesn't recognize God's voice
  • 1 Samuel 3:10-18 - God's message
    • 1 Samuel 3:10 - Samuel responds as Eli told him
    • 1 Samuel 3:11-14 - The coming judgement of Eli and his house
    • 1 Samuel 3:15-18 - Samuel tells Eli the message
  • 1 Samuel 3:19-20 - Samuel grows physically and spiritually
  • 1 Samuel 3:21 - The word of the Lord comes to Samuel
  • 1 Samuel 4:1-11 - The Ark is captured
    • 1 Samuel 4:1-2 - Israel is defeated by the Philistines.
    • 1 Samuel 4:3-4 - The Elders respond with superstitious trust in the Ark.
    • 1 Samuel 4:5 - Israels sincere but wrong confidence in the Ark
    • 1 Samuel 4:6-9 - The Philistines fear of the Ark
    • 1 Samuel 4:10-11 - The Ark is captured and Israel is defeated.
  • 1 Samuel 4:12-22 - Israel's and Eli's Anguish
    • 1 Samuel 4:12-18 - Eli hears what happened to his sons and the Ark and dies
    • 1 Samuel 4:19-22 - More tragedy among Eli's family.

Application – Don't turn God into a good luck charm. God is slow to judge.

Prayer – Dear God. You have been merciful to me. You are slow to judge when I am unrepentant. Help me to repent quickly. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Forgetting to repent. Taking advantage of God's mercy.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't be slow to repent like Eli

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Israel loses the Ark because of false trust in superstitious ideas.


Tuesday, May 7, 2024

1 Samuel 2

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 2

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 2:1-10 - Hannah's prayer
    • 1 Samuel 2:1-2 - Thanksgiving and praise
    • 1 Samuel 2:3 - Warning to the proud
    • 1 Samuel 2:4-8a - Hannah's glory to God who humbles and exalts
    • 1 Samuel 2:8b-10 - Hannah's confidence in the Lord
  • 1 Samuel 2:11 - Samuel ministers for the Lord
  • 1 Samuel 2:12-26 - The wickedness of Eli's sons
    • 1 Samuel 2:12 - The evil character of Eli's sons
    • 1 Samuel 2:13-17 - The stealing of what was offered to God
    • 1 Samuel 2:18-21 - The difference of what Samuel was doing
    • 1 Samuel 2:22 - The sexual immorality of Eli's sons
    • 1 Samuel 2:23-26 - The ineffective rebuke of Eli
  • 1 Samuel 2:27-36 - God's judgement on Eli's family
    • 1 Samuel 2:27-33 - Eli's family will be cut off 
    • 1 Samuel 2:34-36 - The promise that both sons will die on the same day

Application – It is important to do what is right even when it might be painful.

Prayer – Dear God. Later on in life there will be important decisions I have to make. Help me to make the right choices that please you even when it might be painful. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Failing to rebuke those who do wrong.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't be like Eli in failing to strongly rebuke his sons.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – God punishes Eli for failing to rebuke his sons.


Monday, May 6, 2024

1 Samuel 1

 Scripture – 1 Samuel 1

Observation – 

  • 1 Samuel 1:1-18 - Hannah's barrenness and vow
    • 1 Samuel 1:1-2 - The family of Elkanah
    • 1 Samuel 1:3-7 - Elkanah and his family journey to the tabernacle
    • 1 Samuel 1:8-11 - Hannah's godly vow
    • 1 Samuel 1:12-14 - Eli watches her pray and accuses her of drunkenness
    • 1 Samuel 1:15-18 - Hannah responds to Eli's accusation; Eli blesses her.
  • 1 Samuel 1:19-28 - The birth and dedication of Samuel
    • 1 Samuel 1:19-20 - Samuel's conception and birth.
    • 1 Samuel 1:21-23 - Hannah keeps the child until weaned
    • 1 Samuel 1:24-28 - Hannah dedicates Samuel to God

Application – Divine power is possible only by submitting to Jesus. Pray when you want something.

Prayer – Dear God. You are an all-powerful God. Divine power comes only from you. Help me to be like Hannah who had faith in your power. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Have faith like Hannah

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – God raises a prophet of Israel through a miracle.


Friday, May 3, 2024

Ruth 3-4

 Scripture – Ruth 3-4

Observation – 

  • Ruth 3:1-5 - Naiomi's instructions
    • Ruth 3:1-2a - Security for Ruth through Boaz
    • Ruth 3:2b-5 - Naiomi instructs Ruth how to ask Boaz
  • Ruth 3:6-13 - Ruth and Boaz at the threshing floor
    • Ruth 3:6-7 - Ruth rests at Boaz's feet
    • Ruth 3:8-9 - Ruth requests 
    • Ruth 3:10-11 - Boaz responds
    • Ruth 3:12-13 - Boaz reveals a nearer kinsmen
  • Ruth 3:14-15 - Ruth goes home
  • Ruth 4:1-6 - The nearer kinsmen declines his right
    • Ruth 4:1-2 - Boaz meets his nearer kinsmen
    • Ruth 4:3-4 - Boaz asks the kinsmen to redeem the land
    • Ruth 4:5 - Boaz informs the kinsmen of both Ruth and Naiomi
    • Ruth 4:6 - The kinsmen declines his right
  • Ruth 4:7-12 - The ceremony
    • Ruth 4:7-8 - Custom of the Sandal
    • Ruth 4:9-10 - Boaz's announcement to the elders
    • Ruth 4:11-12 - Blessing of the witness to the wedding
  • Ruth 4:13-22 - Happily ever after
    • Ruth 4:13 - Ruth and Boaz have their first child
    • Ruth 4:14-16 - Blessed life of Naiomi
    • Ruth 4:17-22 - Ruth and Boaz are great grandparents to David

Application – Jesus is our redeemer just like Boaz is to Ruth

Prayer – Dear Jesus. In this chapter I see how you are our redeemer just like Boaz is to Ruth. I thank you for paying the price so that we could be redeemed. Amen.

Sins to avoid – 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Be grateful like Ruth.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – God makes a line to David and eventually to Jesus.


Thursday, May 2, 2024

Ruth 1-2

 Scripture – Ruth 1-2

Observation – 

  • Ruth 1:1-5 - Background
    • Ruth 1:1 - A sojourn in Moab
    • Ruth 1:2-5 - Tragedy in Moab
  • Ruth 1:6-22 - They return to Judah
    • Ruth 1:6-7 - Three widows return to Judah
    • Ruth 1:8-9 - Naiomi tells her daughters in law to return to Moab
    • Ruth 1:10-13 - Naiomi pleads with her daughters to go back
    • Ruth 1:14 - Ruth stays; Orpah goes
    • Ruth 1:15-18 - Ruth's statement of faith to Naiomi
    • Ruth 1:19-22 - Naiomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem
  • Ruth 2:1-16 - Ruth gleans in the field
    • Ruth 2:1 - Naiomi's family; Boaz
    • Ruth 2:2-3 - Ruth saunters over to Boaz's field
    • Ruth 2:4-7 - Boaz seeks information of Ruth
    • Ruth 2:8-9 - Boaz speaks kindly to Ruth
    • Ruth 2:10-13 - Ruth salutes Boaz for his kindness
    • Ruth 2:14-16 - Boaz shows great kindness to Ruth
  • Ruth 2:17-23 - Ruth reports what happened to Naiomi
    • Ruth 2:17-18 - Ruth brings food to Naiomi
    • Ruth 2:19-23 - Naiomi praises God

Application – Praise God for providing, God rewards those who are faithful.

Prayer – Dear God. You are the provider. You have truly blessed my life. I ask that I would be faithful to you just like Ruth was to Naiomi. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Not thanking God for providing. 

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Be faithful like Ruth.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Ruth shows great faithfulness and is rewarded.


Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Judges 20:12-48; 21

 Scripture – Judges 20:12-48; 21

Observation – 

  • Judges 20:12-48 - Battle against Benjamin and Gibeah
    • Judges 20:12-17 - Benjamin's help is sought but not given
    • Judges 20:18-21 - Israel is defeated before Benjamin
    • Judges 20:22-23 - Israel seeks God after defeat
    • Judges 20:24-25 - Israel is defeated again before Benjamin
    • Judges 20:26-28 - Israel repents before God
    • Judges 20:29-48 - Israel defeats Benjamin
  • Judges 21:1-3 - A foolish oath
    • Judges 21:1 - A curse is laid on anyone who gives their daughters to Benjamin
    • Judges 21:2-3 - Israel realizes that Benjamin is in danger of extinction
  • Judges 21:4-25 - The solution to the problem
    • Judges 21:4-15 - Destroying the city of Jabesh Gilead and taking their young women.
    • Judges 21:16-24 - A scheme to give the remaining men of Benjamin an opportunity to take wives.
    • Judges 21:25 - An observation in the time of Israel.

Application – Repent rather than act foolishly and rashly.

Prayer – Dear God. Sometimes I act foolishly and without thinking, I take things out on others just like Israel did. Help me to not act like them. Help me to repent of my sins. Amen.

Sins to avoid – Acting foolishly without inquiring of the Lord. Not repenting.

Promises to claim – 

Examples to follow – Don't be like Israel in acting rashly.

Commands to obey – 

Summarize and apply – Another example of Israel doing whatever they saw fit.


Mark 15:1-41

Scripture – Mark 15:1-41 Observation –  Mark 15:1-15 - The trial with Pilate Mark 15:1-5 - The first trial Mark 15:6-15 - The second trial M...