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Old Testament Stories With Modern-Day Applications
“I’m not sure I’m going to make it through Leviticus,” my friend declared as we walked together through the local park. We’d both been reflectively reading through the Old Testament stories in Genesis and Exodus, but Leviticus posed a challenge. “I feel that,” I agreed. A few weeks earlier, we both started a Bible reading plan with the hope of reading through the Bible in a year. Bogged down by text we didn’t understand and rules about sacrifices and oxen, we were both having trouble applying the words to our lives. “Maybe we need a different plan. Instead of just reading the Bible, maybe we need to slow down and…
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The Old Testament Books in Order (and a New Blog Series)
Today, I’d like to welcome you to a new blog series. For the next 30 Fridays, we’ll be studying the Old Testament and learning how these narratives apply to our lives today. I’m beginning by sharing the Old Testament books in order as an overview. At the bottom of today’s post, you’ll also find my new free devotional eBook, Timeless: Apply the Old Testament to Your Life Today. This 30-day devotional explores key biblical narratives from the first six books of the Old Testament and includes practical, modern-day applications. We’ll begin today with a list of the Old Testament books in order, including brief descriptions. At the bottom of the…
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Consequences of Bitterness in the Bible: Finding Freedom
We all face the temptation to let bitter roots grow in our hearts. Today, we’ll talk about the consequences of bitterness in the Bible and explore practical ways to find freedom. In Scripture, bitterness is described as a root that grows and spreads. If left unchecked, it hardens our hearts. Hebrews 12:15 warns, “See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled” (ESV). Bitterness is frequently associated with unresolved anger, resentment, and unforgiveness. It is the bad fruit of holding onto grudges and holding offenses against others. The Consequences of…
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Be Still and Know That I Am God: 8 Tips
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10, NIV “Be still and know that I am God” My mornings by the window have changed. These days, our two cats crouch like sentinels as we marvel at the chickadees and house sparrows outside. I’ve been starting my days beside this window for at least a decade now. The cats joined our family just over a year ago, and their stillness is a daily reminder to quiet myself and be present with the dawn. Today, we’ll explore some practical ways to be still in God’s presence. What…
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10 Prayer Points for Alignment With God
A falling veil of white greets me with the dawn, folding me into itself. I watch the snowflakes flutter to the earth as I ask God to align my heart with his heart. Throughout the past year, this prayer for alignment has transformed my life. Today, we’ll look at 10 prayer points for alignment with God as we aim to stay in step with him. Also, be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you come into greater alignment with God. 10 Prayer Points for Alignment With God Praying this way has helped me shift from making lists of self-centered requests…
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10 War Room Prayers for Victory in Life’s Battles
Morning greets us soundlessly this time of year. The light has begun to push back the darkness, but winter’s arms still enfold us. I sit in the corner of our dining room each morning and pray for our kids. I pray for friends and family members, the people who are within our inner circle. This dining room has become a war room over the years, and from this corner I pray war room prayers for victory in every area of life. Today, we’ll explore 10 war room prayers for life’s battles. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help guide your…
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15 Springtime Bible Verses for Renewal and Refreshment
I walked barefoot through the snow this morning and filled the bird feeder as if it were summer, a quiet rebellion against the season. Later, after the sun was high, I pulled out my Bible in search of springtime Bible verses, never more eager to embrace a fresh start and a new season. God’s created world reminds us of his care for us. Nature also reminds us that there are cycles in life. We all face seasons of rest, darkness, and solace, as well as lush and vibrant seasons of fruit-bearing and joy. As we prepare for springtime this year, let’s take the time to dwell on these springtime Bible…
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Psalm 91 Prayer Points: Prayers for Your Family and Friends
In the gentle hours of moonlight and silence, I lift my eyes to a starlit sky. My heart is heavy, and I read Psalm 91 as I pray for protection over our family. Today, I’ll share the Psalm 91 prayer points I prayed in the hours of darkness. May these prayers bless you as you draw near to God in prayer as well. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you connect with God in prayer. Let’s dive into these Psalm 91 prayer points. Psalm 91 Prayer Points Jewish tradition attributes Psalm 91 to Moses, noting similarities between…
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5 Steps to Take When You Feel Angry With God
I recently went to lunch with a friend I hadn’t seen in several years. As we caught up on life, our conversation turned to God. Her face immediately grew cold as she expressed, “God and I aren’t on good terms right now.” It was clear she was angry with God. “Do you want to talk about it?” I gently asked. “Well, after everything that happened last year, I’m not sure I want to follow a God who would allow such terrible things,” she admitted. In the previous year, she’d endured some painful losses. I listened as she shared her story. I also told her about a time in my life…
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The Parable of the Talents: Don’t Waste Your Gifts
Today, we’ll take a closer look at a parable that teaches us the importance of using our God-given gifts for his glory. After this Parable of the Talents summary, we’ll share practical applications as well. Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you respond to God’s calling. Let’s begin with a summary of the Parable of the Talents. The Parable of the Talents Jesus shared this parable in Matthew 25:14-30. In the parable, a business owner went on a trip. He called his servants to look after his assets while he was away. One servant received five bags of silver. …
