In an agricultural society, where grain was a major means of exchange, the hoarding of corn could drastically effect prices. The person who sold his grain and did not hoard it was a blessing to others and would be blessed by God (v. 26). We might compare this today with someone w …
In this chapter Paul explains that “You were not justified by keeping the Law and neither can you be sanctified by keeping the Law.” Laws only have power over people who are alive (v. 1). To illustrate this truth, Paul uses an illustration of the marriage relationship (vv. 2-3). When a man …
David let God be his defense (v. 10). He appeals to God to ascend to His judgment seat. God tests the hearts and minds (v. 9). Nothing is hidden from God. This can be either terrifying or comforting. We don’t have to try to impress God or to put on a false front. Instead, we can trust God to help us …
Beginning at verse eight Syrian invasions of Israel are noted. The first incident involved marauding bands of Syrians who made border raids against the Jews (vv. 8-9). Ben-haded II, king of Aram, planned to pitch his camp on the border from which he could strike unexpectedly. G …
God provided for the needs of each tribe, though in some cases parts of their inheritances were still in the hands of the enemy. The boundaries for each tribe are given and the Israelites were to possess the land by faith, trusting God to enable them to defeat their foes. Some think that if God is to be …
Despite severe suffering the Thessalonians had welcomed their message and became imitators of Paul and Silas (v. 6). The message of salvation, though welcomed with great joy brought the Thessalonians severe suffering because it led to persecution from both Jews and Gentiles (3:2- …
The message of salvation appealed to slaves and many of them became believers. Paul told the slaves to maintain an attitude of respect as a testimony to their unbelieving masters (vv. 1-2). If a master is a Christian, they should give even better respect to him. The danger was that a Christian …
Malachi’s message up to this point has been bleak indeed. The Jews have spurned the love of God. But the hour of reckoning is about to come (v. 1). At the Messiah’s appearing God will intervene in a never to be forgotten fashion in Jewish history. Wrong will ultimately be avenged and the …
Much of this chapter speaks of preparation being made for the coming of the Lord and for the restoration of His people. The Lord announced that He will continue to work on Jerusalem’s behalf until her righteousness, salvation, and glory are observed by the rest of the wor …
This portion of Scripture shows the importance of being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading to be in the right place, at the right time. Philip who was engaged in a very successful evangelistic work in Samaria, was prompted by the Spirit of God to interrupt this ministry and go to the Gaza Road …