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Othniel: 8 Applicable Lessons From Israel’s First Judge
The book of Judges describes the events that took place after Joshua’s death. The tribes of Israel began taking possession of the land, and judges were appointed to lead them. Othniel was Israel’s first judge. Othniel was a relative of Caleb, who had given a favorable report of the Promised Land after exploring it as a spy. As Israel moved into the land and began conquering it, Othniel proved his courage by capturing the city of Kriath-sepher. As a reward, Caleb gave him his daughter Achsah in marriage (Judges 1:12-13). A pattern was set in motion as Othniel began serving Israel as a judge and leader. This pattern would continue…
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Jesus in the Old Testament: The Golden Thread of Scripture
“I’ve been studying the presence of Jesus in the Old Testament, and it’s changing the way I understand the Bible,” a friend shared as we sat in my living room on a winter afternoon. “I can’t believe you just said that. I’ve been doing the same thing!” I exclaimed. We spent the next 20 minutes talking about the remarkable symbolism of Jesus in the tabernacle and the ways various biblical accounts in the Old Testament pointed to Christ. The study of Jesus in the Old Testament is often referred to as “typology,” a foreshadowing of Jesus and other New Testament themes in the Old Testament. Today, we’ll look at 20…
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Bible Verses About Loving God With All Your Heart
Autumn writes a sun-splashed story in shades of ochre and crimson. This season of change reminds me that God is always working, and in his work, he is always loving us. I recently dug into Scripture in search of Bible verses about loving God with all your heart as I aim to embody his love. Today, I’m sharing the verses I found. I also encourage you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you draw near to God. Let’s begin with God’s Word. Bible Verses About Loving God With All Your Heart Here are God’s words about how to love him with…
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Courage-Building Bible Verses From Joshua
Several months ago, as I stepped into a new endeavor, I realized I needed an anchor. I felt anxious and fearful about stepping into the unknown. A friend suggested reading through the book of Joshua, and as I did, I compiled a list of courage-building Bible verses from Joshua and the conquest into the Promised Land. Today, we’ll explore these Scriptures. We’ll also discuss practical ways to put our trust in God as we step into uncertain situations. Bible Verses From Joshua Be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free eBook to empower you as you follow God. Let’s begin with these strengthening Bible verses…
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Seeking God’s Presence: 9 Ways to Increase Your Awareness
“God is always present, whether we feel his presence or not,” a wise older woman once taught me as we talked about seeking God’s presence. “When we speak of seeking his presence, we are talking about becoming more aware of him.” I’ve returned to these words countless times over the years. God is always with us. We cannot escape his presence, and we can’t outrun his love. Yet most of us experience times when his presence seems veiled or distant. When this happens, we remember that we walk by faith and not by sight. Our feelings are ever-changing, and they are not a reliable indication of God’s nearness or distance.…
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The Spiritual Meaning of Jericho: 8 Lessons in Spiritual Warfare
Under Joshua’s leadership, the Israelites had just crossed the Jordan River and stepped into the land of Canaan, the Promised Land. However, this was not an empty land. It was already inhabited, and Israel would have to conquer formidable adversaries before they could settle in the land. Today, we’ll explore the spiritual meaning of Jericho, the first fortified city on the journey. In many ways, the defeat of Jericho offers a blueprint for overcoming obstacles and strongholds in our lives. Let’s recap the story of Jericho’s fall. Then, we’ll apply the principles from this narrative to our lives today. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s…
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Joshua and Jesus: Spiritual Leaders, Deliverers, and Conquerors
After 40 years spent wandering in the wilderness, Moses died on Mount Nebo. He passed his leadership role onto a man named Joshua, who would lead the people to claim the land of Canaan. In many ways, Joshua’s life points to Jesus. Today, we’ll look at the connections between Joshua and Jesus as we continue exploring the ways the Old and New Testaments form one culminating story. I invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you apply the Old Testament to your everyday life. Joshua and Jesus Let’s begin with a quick summary of Joshua’s life. Then, we’ll look at…
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17 Autumn Bible Verses for Embracing the Season
September has come with shorter days and crisp, cool mornings. Hints of amber color the forest, and we anticipate the change to come. Today, we’ll spend some time soaking in a list of autumn Bible verses to celebrate the season. I invite you to use these Scriptures to help you thank God for the seasonal change, slowing down to embrace the transformation. I’ll also share some questions for reflection as we consider each verse. Also, be sure to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you connect with God in replenishing ways this autumn. Autumn Bible Verses Here are God’s Words for autumn…
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15 Bible Verses for School: Confidence, Trust, and Courage
“I’m sad summer is over. Can you read me some Bible verses for school tomorrow?” our seven-year-old asked as we opened his storybook Bible to read before bed. It was the eve of the first day of school, and first grade felt daunting. He was flooded with a mix of emotions: sadness that summer was ending, excitement about seeing his friends, and uncertainty about what the year would hold. I’d already talked with his teenage sister and pre-teen brother about their feelings, and it seemed everyone had the same apprehensions. Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is a helpful way to navigate any new situation, and this extends to school. …
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Moses’ Songs in the Bible: Portraits of God’s Character
Moses is traditionally credited with three songs in the Bible. The Song of the Sea is found in Exodus 15:1-18. The Song of Moses is in Deuteronomy 32:1-43. Psalm 90 is titled “A Prayer of Moses.” Today, we’ll begin by exploring similarities between Moses’ songs in the Bible. Then, we’ll take a closer look at Moses’ Song in Deuteronomy. I also invite you to read to the end of today’s post for a free devotional eBook to help you apply the Old Testament to your life today. Let’s begin by exploring Moses’ songs in the Bible. Moses’ Songs in the Bible All three of Moses’ songs in the Bible are…
