Audio By Carbonatix

Life, at times, feels like a battlefield. As I look back on my journey, especially the season after adopting our children, I recall moments that felt like all-out war. But through every hardship, I’ve discovered an unshakeable truth: God’s promises are our anchor, offering hope even when the world around us seems to crumble.

When John and I decided to adopt, we knew it wouldn’t be easy. We were prepared for challenges, but nothing could truly brace us for the emotional storms that followed. There were nights I cried out to God, overwhelmed by the weight of it all. Yet, in those moments of despair, I clung to His Word. Psalm 46:1 became a lifeline: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” His presence was my peace, His promises my steady anchor.

How Hope Plays Out

This hope in God’s faithfulness is a recurring theme in my novel Breath of Bones. The characters face insurmountable odds, yet they believe in a God who provides the resources, wisdom, and strength to overcome. They embody a hope that is not dependent on circumstances but anchored in God’s very nature.

In my novels, I’ve woven stories of characters who, despite the darkness, cling to the light of God’s promises. In From Dust and Ashes, Helene, a Nazi officer’s wife, finds hope and redemption in God, even as she confronts the devastation of war. Her journey reminds us that God can redeem even the most broken situations. 

Similarly, in Chasing Mona Lisa, Gabi, a young French Resistance worker, faces unimaginable dangers with a hope that transcends the immediate horrors of war, trusting that God’s purposes will prevail.

When you follow God, it’s natural to expect things to turn out smoothly. But what happens when they don’t? What happens when the road gets tougher than anticipated? Remember, God is still good even when circumstances are hard. His nature doesn’t change. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This doesn’t mean every situation will be good, but it means God can bring good out of every situation. So, how can we overcome evil with good in our everyday lives?

Here are three ways:

1. Respond with Love: Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). When faced with hostility, respond with love and kindness.
2. Serve Others: Acts of service can turn the tide of negativity. Find ways to serve your community, family, and even those who oppose you. Galatians 5:13 encourages us to serve one another humbly in love.
3. Stand Firm in Faith: Let God’s Word be your foundation. When the hard things seem overwhelming, immerse yourself in Scripture. Ephesians 6:10-18 speaks of putting on the full armor of God to stand against the devil’s schemes.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, we seek Your strength and guidance amid our battles. Help us to anchor our souls in Your promises and find hope even when the road is tough. Teach us to overcome evil with good and to trust in Your unfailing love. Thank You for being our refuge and strength. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. What promises of God can you cling to in the difficult seasons of life?
2. How can you respond with love to someone who might be difficult to get along with?
3. In what ways can you serve your family or community this week to shine the light of Christ?

May we all find hope in the steadfast love of our God, anchoring our souls in His eternal promises. No matter how fierce the battle, His grace is sufficient, and His victory is sure.

Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH

Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle

July 15

Psalm 136 

Psalm 146-150

The Call to Praise

Psalm 136 – The Great Hallel

Psalm 136 is unique, with each of its 26 verses repeating the powerful declaration, “His mercy endures forever.” This phrase holds a liturgical significance, envisioning a grand assembly of God’s people in the temple courts. As a priest or Levite calls out reasons to thank God, the congregation responds with, “For His faithful love endures forever.”

A Tradition of Praise

In Jewish tradition, Psalm 136 is known as the Great Hallel (Great Psalm of Praise). Although it does not use the words “hallelujah,” it rehearses God’s goodness towards His people and urges them to praise Him for His steadfast love.

Psalm 146 – Magnifying God’s Majesty

Psalm 146 continues the theme of praise, reminding us of God’s creative promises and magnifying His character and majesty. The psalmist’s words inspire us to reflect on God’s enduring nature and His ongoing commitment to His creation.

Psalm 147 – God’s Power and Compassion

Psalm 147 is a song of praise celebrating God’s power, wisdom, and care for Jerusalem. The Psalmist recounts God’s ability to heal the brokenhearted and number the stars, bringing awe with the juxtaposition of these concepts.

Highlight: God’s Care and Majesty

Psalm 147:4-6 – “He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and calls them all by name. How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension!”

• God counts the stars: His greatness extends beyond our understanding.
• God heals the brokenhearted: His compassion is closer than we realize.

Psalm 148 – A Universal Call to Praise

Psalm 148 calls all creation, from the heavens to the earth, to praise the Lord. This psalm includes the heavens, sky, angels, weather, creatures of land and sea, and all people. It concludes with a note that God’s praise should be sung by His faithful ones, the people close to His heart.

A Glimpse of Heaven’s Praise

This command to praise is more than a poetic expression; it’s a divine reality, as seen in Revelation: Revelation 5:11-13 – “Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus, ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.’ And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: ‘Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever.'”

Psalm 149 – Joyful Praise and Spiritual Battle

Psalm 149 is a song of joy for Israel, calling them to praise God with singing, dancing, and musical instruments. It highlights God’s delight in His people and His crowning of the humble with victory.

Spiritual Significance

The psalm also speaks of God’s people executing His justice, a concept paralleled in the New Testament as a spiritual battle. God’s Word is described as a two-edged sword in Revelation 19:15 and Hebrews 4:12, and as the sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17.

Psalm 150 – The Final Benediction

Psalm 150 beautifully concludes the Book of Psalms with a resounding call to praise: “Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heaven! Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness! Praise him with a blast of the ram’s horn; praise him with the lyre and harp! Praise him with the tambourine and dancing; praise him with strings and flutes! Praise him with a clash of cymbals; praise him with loud clanging cymbals. Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!”

Word of the Day: Praise

Praise (verb): Express warm approval or admiration of.

Application: Ways to Praise

Praise does not come naturally, as people are inherently self-centered. However, we can cultivate a lifestyle of praise by considering the various ways outlined in these Psalms:

1. Personal Reflection: Reflect on how God has loved, cared for, and empowered you. Consider His creation, provision, and compassion.
2. Gratitude: Recognize that all good comes from God and practice gratitude. Thank God for the simple and profound blessings in your life.
3. Prayer: Make praise a priority in your prayers, not just requests.
4. Creative Expression: Praise God through singing, dancing, playing an instrument, painting, or other creative outlets.
5. Endurance: Praise God even through trials, remembering His presence in your struggles.
6. Community: Share God’s love and goodness, worshiping together with others.

Personal Takeaway

Incorporating praise into daily life can deepen your relationship with God and enhance your understanding of His character and love. Let the Word of the Day—Praise—resonate in your heart and actions, leading you to a more fulfilling and spiritually enriched life.

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July 16
Isaiah 18-23

The Watchman –
A Guardian of God’s People

The Role of a Watchman

In ancient Israel, watchmen were guards responsible for protecting towns and military installations from surprise enemy attacks and other potential dangers. Their job was to keep watch and warn the townspeople of impending threats. Today, we explore how this role is depicted in Isaiah 18-20 and how it applies to our spiritual lives.

Isaiah 18: Prophecy Against Cush

Isaiah 18 is a prophecy against the land of Cush, sometimes called Ethiopia. Known for their emissaries traveling via sea in vessels of papyrus, Isaiah declares that God will notice and cut down the people, leaving them for the birds of prey and animals. Yet, despite this judgment, gifts will be brought to Jerusalem. Isaiah 18:7: “They will bring gifts to Jerusalem, where the Lord of Heaven’s Armies dwells.”

Isaiah 19: Prophecy Against Egypt

Isaiah 19 foretells a dire prophecy against Egypt. The nation will be handed over to a harsh master, and the Nile River will dry up, leading to economic disaster. Egyptians will turn against each other, leading to civil strife. However, there is a glimmer of hope as Egyptians will turn to the Lord, who will send them a savior. Isaiah 19:20: “It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them.” In the end, Egypt, Assyria, and Israel will worship together in peace, with Egypt becoming God’s people.

Isaiah 20: A Sign Against Egypt and Cush

Isaiah 20 describes Isaiah acting as a sign against Egypt and Cush by walking barefoot and partially naked for three years. This act symbolized the complete poverty and humiliation that Egypt and Cush would face when led away as captives by the Assyrians. This was a stark warning to Judah not to rely on these nations for military assistance. EnduringWord.com: “We shouldn’t think that Isaiah was nude, completely without clothing. Instead, he only wore the inner garment customary in that day – sort of like wearing only your underwear or a nightshirt.”

Isaiah 21-23: Messages to Nations

Babylon: Isaiah delivers a fearful message about Babylon’s impending doom, causing even the messenger to grow faint. Watchmen: Isaiah mentions watchmen three times, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Isaiah 21:9: “Babylon is fallen, fallen!”

Edom: A conversation among watchmen hints at the end of Assyrian oppression and the brief respite before Babylonian rule. Arabia: A prophecy of battle and destruction where only a few archers will survive. Isaiah 21:16-17: “Within a year, counting each day, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end. Only a few of its courageous archers will survive. I, the Lord, the God of Israel, have spoken.”

Jerusalem – The Valley of Vision: Jerusalem is described as a city on a hill, surrounded by higher hills and three valleys. Isaiah describes the people’s reaction to calamity, their defenses stripped, and their refusal to seek God’s help. Isaiah 22:14: “Till the day you die, you will never be forgiven for this sin.” This judgment was for ignoring the Almighty.

Tyre: Isaiah prophesies mourning for Tyre, synonymous with commerce and materialism, but eventually, God will restore it. Isaiah 23:9: “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has done it to destroy your pride and bring low all earth’s nobility.”

Word of the Day: Watchman

Watchman (Hebrew: צָפָה tsō-p̄eh or tsa-phah) or “sentinel”: the noun is derived from the Hebrew verb meaning to “look out or about, spy, keep watch”; properly “to lean forward.”

Application: Being Spiritual Watchmen Today

1. God’s Watchfulness

God is our ultimate watchman, observing everything beyond the borders of His Promised Land. Isaiah 19:4 reminds us that nothing escapes God’s gaze. He watches our actions, words, and thoughts, anticipating our turn towards Him for salvation.

2. Our Role as Watchmen

Just as ancient watchmen guarded cities, we must guard our spiritual lives and warn others. Isaiah’s dramatic act of walking barefoot and partially naked symbolizes the vulnerability and humility needed in our faith journey. We must rely on God rather than worldly powers or riches.

3. Warnings and Guidance

As spiritual leaders, we are called to be watchmen, guiding others toward God and warning them of judgment. Hebrews 13:7 emphasizes the responsibility of spiritual leaders to watch over souls and be accountable to God.

Personal Takeaway

Embracing the role of a watchman in our spiritual lives means staying vigilant, humble, and dependent on God. We must warn others of impending dangers and guide them towards the eternal hope found in God. Let us root our trust not in our plans or resources but in the unchanging and eternal God.

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July 17

Isaiah 24-27

Isaiah 29

God as Our Tower of Refuge

The Heavy Prophecy of Isaiah 24

Today’s reading begins with the somber message of destruction in Isaiah 24. The earth will be emptied and looted due to the sins of its people, illustrating the consequences of breaking the covenant with God. This chapter serves as a stark reminder of the weight of ignoring the Lord, but it also highlights the remnant who continue to praise His name amidst the hardship.

Isaiah 25: Praise Amidst Tribulation

Isaiah 25 shifts from the destruction to a song of praise for God. This chapter emphasizes the importance of praising God even during tribulations. The people acknowledge God as their refuge and fortress, recognizing His power to swallow up death forever and wipe away all tears. This passage gives us a glimpse of the hope and peace that comes from trusting in God.

Isaiah 25:1: “O LORD, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them.”

Isaiah 26: Trust in God as the Eternal Rock

In Isaiah 26, we see a vision of perfect peace for those who trust in the Lord. This chapter encourages us to keep our thoughts fixed on God and trust in Him as our eternal Rock.

Isaiah 26:3-4: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD God is the eternal Rock.”

Isaiah 27: God’s Power Over Leviathan

Isaiah 27 depicts God’s power over Leviathan, symbolizing chaos and evil. God promises to protect His vineyard, Israel, and to gather His people, emphasizing His sovereignty and care.

Psalm 104:25-27: “Here is the ocean, vast and wide, teeming with life of every kind, both large and small. See the ships sailing along and Leviathan, which you made to play in the sea. They all depend on you to give them food as they need it.”

Isaiah 29: Doom for Jerusalem and Promise of Restoration

Isaiah 29 prophesies doom for Jerusalem, also known as Ariel. The chapter highlights the people’s lip service to God while their hearts are far from Him. However, it ends with a promise of restoration, where the humble will find joy in the Lord.

Isaiah 29:13: “The Lord says: ‘These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.’”

Isaiah 29:19: “The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the LORD. The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.”

Word of the Day: Tower

Tower: A strong tower was a central place in ancient cities where people could run when facing danger and find safety and protection. God is depicted as a strong tower, providing refuge and safety.

Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”

Application: Finding Refuge in God

1. The Siege Tower

Isaiah 29:2 speaks of a siege tower, symbolizing God’s judgment against Jerusalem. When we go against God, He will fight against us, but when we humble ourselves before Him, He fights for us.

Isaiah 29:6-7: “I, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, will act for you with thunder and earthquake and great noise, with whirlwind and storm and consuming fire. All the nations fighting against Jerusalem will vanish like a dream! Those who are attacking her walls will vanish like a vision in the night.”

2. God as a Tower of Refuge

Isaiah 25:4 beautifully declares God as a tower of refuge for the poor and needy, a shelter from the storm and heat.

Isaiah 25:4: “But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat. For the oppressive acts of ruthless people are like a storm beating against a wall.”

Personal Takeaway

Reflecting on these passages, we see the importance of seeking refuge in the Lord. Whether facing tribulation or prosperity, trusting in God as our eternal Rock brings perfect peace. Consider what type of tower the Lord will be to you today. Will you find refuge in Him and trust in His unwavering strength and protection?

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July 18
Isaiah 30-33

Look to God as Our Ultimate Protector

Isaiah 30 – Trusting in God Over Egypt

Isaiah 30 opens with a stark critique of the Israelites’ misplaced trust in Egypt rather than in God. In this chapter, God witnesses their reliance on worldly powers and warns of the consequences. Despite their rebellion, God expresses His enduring desire for His people to return to Him, promising grace and justice.

Isaiah 30:6: “This message came to me concerning the animals in the Negev: The caravan moves slowly across the terrible desert to Egypt—donkeys weighed down with riches and camels loaded with treasure—all to pay for Egypt’s protection. They travel through the wilderness, a place of lionesses and lions, a place where vipers and poisonous snakes live. All this, and Egypt will give you nothing in return.” Isaiah 30:18: “So the LORD must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.”

Isaiah 31 – Futility of Trusting in Earthly Powers

In Isaiah 31, the prophet continues to criticize the Israelites for relying on Egypt’s military might. Isaiah emphasizes that God’s power and wisdom surpass any earthly force. He assures them that God will protect Jerusalem and calls for the people to abandon their idols.

Isaiah 32 – The Promise of a Righteous King

Isaiah 32 brings a hopeful vision: “Look! A righteous king is coming, and honest princes will rule under him.” This prophecy is often seen as referring to Hezekiah, a righteous king of Judah, and foreshadowing Jesus Christ, the King of Kings. The chapter speaks of restoration, justice, and peace under this righteous reign.

Isaiah 32:1: “Look, a righteous king is coming!” Isaiah 32:3: “Then everyone who has eyes will be able to see the truth, and everyone who has ears will be able to hear it.”

Isaiah 33 – Deliverance from Assyria

Isaiah 33 prophesies the downfall of Assyria, which had been plundering and terrorizing Israel. Despite their seemingly unstoppable might, God promises to deliver His people. The chapter transitions from the judgment of enemies to a vision of Jerusalem restored, secure, and filled with joy.

Word of the Day: Look

Look (verb): An act of directing one’s gaze in order to see someone or something. To examine or study.

Isaiah 32:1: “Look, a righteous king is coming!” Isaiah 32:3: “Then everyone who has eyes will be able to see the truth, and everyone who has ears will be able to hear it.”

Application: Where Are We Looking for Help?

Throughout these chapters, God calls His people to look to Him rather than to Egypt. This message is as relevant today as it was then. We often seek security in our jobs, finances, talents, or relationships—our modern-day “Egypts.” However, these are unstable foundations.

God’s call is clear: trust in Him. His strength, wisdom, and love are far more reliable than any earthly power. Just as God beckoned Israel to return to Him, He calls us to recognize Him as our ultimate protector and provider.

Isaiah 30:15: “This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.’”

Personal Takeaway

Reflect on where you are placing your trust. Are you looking for temporary security solutions, or are you trusting in God’s everlasting strength and provision? God is waiting for us to turn to Him. He is our rock, our refuge, and our salvation.

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July 19

Isaiah 34-35

Micah 2-5

The Remnant of Hope

Isaiah 34 – God’s Wrath Against the Nations

Isaiah 34 is a vivid prophecy of God’s wrath and judgment against the nations, specifically Edom, symbolizing all nations opposed to God. The chapter is filled with stark imagery of total destruction, illustrating the inevitability of God’s justice against sin.

Isaiah 34:11: “It will be haunted by the desert owl and the screech owl, the great owl and the raven. For God will measure that land carefully; he will measure it for chaos and destruction.”

Isaiah 35 – A Vision of Restoration and Redemption

In contrast, Isaiah 35 offers a hopeful vision of God’s redemption. The desert will rejoice and blossom, and the weak and fearful are encouraged with promises of divine retribution and salvation.

Isaiah 35:4: “Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.’”

This chapter also hints at the coming of Jesus, the Messiah, who will bring healing and joy. The “Way of Holiness” will be a safe path for God’s people, culminating in a joyful return to Zion with everlasting joy crowning their heads.

Micah 2 – Condemnation and Restoration

Micah 2 begins with a condemnation of those who devise wicked plans and oppress others. It predicts calamity as a divine response to these injustices but ends with a promise of restoration. God will gather His people like a shepherd gathers his flock.

Micah 2:12-13: “Someday, O Israel, I will gather you; I will gather the remnant who are left. I will bring you together again like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture. Yes, your land will again be filled with noisy crowds! Your leader will break out and lead you out of exile, out through the gates of the enemy cities, back to your own land. Your king will lead you; the LORD himself will guide you.”

Micah 3-5 – Judgment and the Promise of a Righteous Ruler

Micah 3: Condemns the leaders of Israel for their injustices, declaring that they will be held responsible for their actions.

Micah 4: Speaks of the Lord’s future reign, the gathering of exiles, and the hope that follows exile and destruction.

Micah 4:10: “Writhe and groan like a woman in labor, you people of Jerusalem, for now you must leave this city to live in the open country. You will soon be sent in exile to distant Babylon. But the Lord will rescue you there; he will redeem you from the grip of your enemies.”

Micah 5: Foretells the birth of a ruler from Bethlehem, pointing to Jesus Christ.

Micah 5:2: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf.”

Word of the Day: Remnant

Remnant: A small remaining quantity of something. As we read in Isaiah and Micah, the theme of the remnant is prominent. God’s people will face destruction and exile, but a faithful remnant will turn to God and be restored.

Application: Finding Hope as the Remnant

As we read in Isaiah and Micah, three main themes emerge:

1. Destruction is coming.
2. You will go into exile.
3. I will rescue you.

God’s people faced severe consequences for their disobedience, yet hope remained. In exile, a remnant would turn back to God.

Micah 5:3-4: “The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the woman in labor gives birth. Then at last his fellow countrymen will return from exile to their own land. And he will stand to lead his flock with the LORD’s strength, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored around the world.”

This message is timeless. In our lives, we often feel like remnants, facing difficult times that seem far from the life we envisioned. Yet, God promises restoration and growth from our challenges. Just as Bethlehem, a small town, became the birthplace of Jesus, our small, seemingly insignificant moments can become the start of something extraordinary in God’s hands.

Personal Takeaway

No matter how desolate or difficult our circumstances, God sees us and values us. We are never just leftovers; we are seeds ready to grow into something beautiful in His plan. Trust in God’s promise of restoration and let Him be your refuge and strength.

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July 20

Micah 6-7 

2 Chronicles 32:1 – 8

2 Kings 18:13-37

Isaiah 36:1-22

Trusting God Despite Confrontation

Micah 6 – God’s Case Against Israel

Today, we dive into Micah 6, where God presents His case against Israel. It’s like a courtroom drama, with Micah acting as the counselor. God reminds Israel of His historical acts of kindness and deliverance. The people, feeling guilty, ask what they should do to appease God. Should they offer burnt offerings or even their children?

Micah 6:8: “Oh people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what He requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

God wants their hearts and attention. Due to their disobedience, God declares punishment, but hope remains.

Micah 7 – Misery to Hope

Micah 7 shifts from misery to hope. Despite the coming punishment, Micah declares his trust in God.

Micah 7:7: “As for me, I look to the Lord for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me.”

Micah assures that God will restore and rebuild, leading His people like a shepherd. The world will witness God’s miraculous acts.

Micah 7:18-19: “Where is another God like you, who pardons the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of his special people? You will not stay angry with your people forever, because you delight in showing unfailing love.”

Confrontation with Assyria: Hezekiah’s Challenge

2 Chronicles 32:1-8: King Hezekiah of Judah faces an invasion by Sennacherib, king of Assyria. Hezekiah fortifies the city and encourages the people to trust in God’s greater power.

2 Chronicles 32:7: “Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side!”

2 Kings 18:13-37 and Isaiah 36: Despite initially standing strong, Hezekiah offers tribute to Sennacherib. The Assyrian king’s officials then intimidate Jerusalem, questioning Hezekiah’s trust in God.

2 Kings 18:35: “What god of any nation has ever been able to save its people from my power? So what makes you think that the LORD can rescue Jerusalem from me?”

Word of the Day: Confrontation

Confrontation: A hostile or argumentative meeting or situation between opposing parties.

Application: Facing Confrontations with Faith

Life is filled with confrontations, whether external challenges or internal struggles. Micah 6 and 7 present a confrontation between God and Israel, urging them to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Hezekiah’s story shows the importance of trusting God through external threats. Initially, Hezekiah strengthens his people’s faith, but fear leads him to compromise. This teaches us that fear and doubt often magnify our problems.

Personal Takeaway

When confronted with life’s challenges, remember:

1. Trust in God: Fear can make our problems seem insurmountable, but God is greater.
2. Do what is right: As Micah 6:8 says, act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
3. Stay Strong: Like Hezekiah, start strong and continue to trust in God’s protection and guidance.

Reflect on how you handle confrontations; are you trusting God or giving in to fear? Let’s commit to trusting God, knowing He will guide and protect us.

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July 21

2 Kings 19

Isaiah 37

2 Chronicles 32:9-23

Defend and Deliver:
Hezekiah’s Faith in God’s Power

Today’s readings come from parallel accounts in the Old Testament: 2 Kings 19:1-19, Isaiah 37:1-20, and 2 Chronicles 32:9-19. These passages describe a critical moment in the history of Judah, where King Hezekiah faced a dire threat from the Assyrian King Sennacherib. The Assyrian king sent his officers to intimidate the people of Jerusalem, boasting about his past victories and mocking the God of Israel. 

The Threat from Assyria

In 2 Chronicles 32:19, it states, “These officers talked about the God of Jerusalem as though he were one of the pagan gods, made by human hands.” Sennacherib’s officers spoke in Hebrew to demoralize the people, claiming that no god had ever saved a nation from Assyria, implying that the Lord couldn’t either. This mockery was meant to weaken the resolve of Jerusalem’s inhabitants, but King Hezekiah responded differently.

Hezekiah’s Response

Upon hearing the threats, Hezekiah tore his clothes, put on sackcloth, and went into the temple of the Lord. He sent his officials to the prophet Isaiah to seek the Lord’s guidance. Isaiah reassured them, saying, “This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid of what you have heard… I will make him return to his land, where he will be cut down with the sword.” (2 Kings 19:7)

Hezekiah’s Prayer

Hezekiah received a blasphemous letter from Sennacherib, which he spread out before the Lord in the temple and prayed for deliverance. He acknowledged the reality of Assyria’s conquests but asserted his trust in God. He prayed, “O Lord, God of Israel… you alone are God of all the kingdoms of the earth… Listen to Sennacherib’s words of defiance against the living God.” (2 Kings 19:15-19)

God’s Answer

God answered Hezekiah’s prayer through Isaiah, promising deliverance and prophesying Sennacherib’s downfall. “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I have heard your prayer…” (Isaiah 37:21). The Lord sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army, forcing Sennacherib to return home in disgrace, where he was killed by his own sons.

Personal Takeaway: The Power of Prayer and Trust

Hezekiah’s story underscores the power of prayer and trust in God. Despite overwhelming odds, Hezekiah did not rely on his strength but sought the Lord’s intervention. His prayer mattered, and God’s response demonstrated His sovereignty and faithfulness.

Application #1: Defending God vs. Trusting God to Defend Us

In today’s world, we might feel the need to defend God against skeptics and critics. However, Hezekiah’s example shows that God is fully capable of defending Himself. Instead of responding with anger, we can:

• Engage in respectful dialogue.
• Educate ourselves in God’s Word to provide thoughtful answers.
• Love others, including those who doubt or mock our faith.
• Live out our faith, demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit.
• Pray for those who oppose or misunderstand us.

Application #2: God’s Defense and Our Assurance

God’s promise to defend His people is unchanging. Just as He defended Jerusalem, He will defend and support us in our times of trouble. Psalm 46:1-5 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble…”

Conclusion

The story of Hezekiah and Sennacherib is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of prayer, the importance of trusting God, and the assurance that God will act on behalf of His people. Let us be encouraged to follow Hezekiah’s example by turning to God in our moments of need, confident that He will defend us and uphold His name.

Word of the Day: Defend
To resist an attack made on (someone or something); to protect from harm or danger.

Reflection Questions:

1. How can you apply Hezekiah’s example of prayer and trust in your own life?
2. In what ways can you engage in respectful dialogue about your faith with others?
3. How can you show the fruits of the Spirit in your daily interactions?

By focusing on these principles, we can grow in our faith and witness to others the mighty power and love of our God.

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