Scripture: 2 Samuel 6:7 “The Lord’s anger blazed out against Uzzah for [touching the Ark of God], and God struck him dead beside [it].” Observation: Initially I find this passage confusing and disheartening – God kills a man for attempting to protect the Ark. The notes in my Bible indicate that David was transporting the [...]
Scripture: Psalm 139: 23-24 “Search me O God, and know my heart, test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” Observation: It is one thing to be searched and called out in your sin – but another thing entirely to [...]
Scripture: Micah 6:8 “O people, the Lord has already told you what is good, and this is what he requires: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Observation: This is the type of verse I think of when people are frustrated by a lack of “calling” on [...]
Scripture: Matthew 14:13-14 “As soon as Jesus heard [of John's death], he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them [...]
Scripture: Matthew 11:29 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Observation: I’m not exactly sure what the “Yoke of Christ” looks like – in many ways I interpret it as taking up your cross, but that sems [...]
Scripture: Psalm 141:5 “Let the godly strike me! It will be a kindness! If they reprove me, it is soothing medicine. Don’t let me refuse it.” Observation: Ah, the importance of community. This kind of correction can not be done outside open, transparent, and loving relationships. Perhaps “submissive” should be added to that list – [...]
Scripture: Matthew 9:12-13 “It is not the healthy that neeed a doctor, but the sick. Go and learn what this means ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (NIV) Observation: The comparison Jesus makes here is somewhat puzzling to me – he’s telling the “healthy righteous” [...]