Author: Chad Bandy

Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 16-18; John 6

In John 6, Jesus demonstrates a powerful balance of boldness and humility. His boldness is clear as He proclaims Himself the “bread of life” (John 6:35), inviting people to believe in Him for eternal life. This was a radical claim, challenging the religious leaders and followers who expected a political Messiah, not one who addressed deeper spiritual needs. By teaching that His followers must “eat [His] flesh and drink [His] blood” (John 6:53), Jesus boldly shifts expectations, emphasizing that true life and fulfillment come only through a profound connection to Him. Many were offended or confused, yet Jesus did not alter His message to gain approval.

However, alongside this boldness, Jesus exemplifies humility. He does not boast about His divine authority but consistently points back to God the Father as the source of His mission and strength. When performing miracles, like the feeding of the 5,000, He gives thanks to God, acknowledging dependence on the Father even though He Himself possesses divine power (John 6:11). Jesus’s humility is also evident in His willingness to let people freely respond to His words. When many turn away, He lets them go without resistance, respecting their choice.

Through John 6, we see that Jesus’s humility does not contradict His boldness. Instead, it strengthens it; His confidence in His purpose comes from His deep alignment with God’s will, not personal pride. This example calls us to be both courageous and humble in our own faith, grounded in God’s truth and motivated by a sincere love for others.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today’s Readings: Lamentations, Psalm 137, 1 Peter 4

Can you find the book of Lamentations in the Bible?  An impactful book with only five chapters, nestled between Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

Lamentations, a poetic expression of grief over Jerusalem’s destruction, speaks to enduring suffering, loss, and hope in the face of despair. Written by Jeremiah, it reflects on the devastation Israel faced as a consequence of turning away from God. Today, it offers insight into dealing with personal and communal suffering. The deep expressions of pain and sorrow highlight how we, too, can honestly bring our struggles before God. Lamentations teaches that lament is a form of worship, acknowledging pain without losing faith. This book emphasizes that while suffering may feel overwhelming, it isn’t the end. Jeremiah’s words about God’s mercies being “new every morning” remind us of God’s faithfulness even in the darkest times (Lamentations 3:22-23). We are encouraged to hope and trust in God’s compassion and justice, especially when we don’t understand our circumstances.

Furthermore, Lamentations challenges us to reflect on personal and collective responsibility. It invites us to examine our actions, acknowledge when we’ve gone astray, and seek restoration. The communal grief expressed encourages us to stand in solidarity with those who suffer, reminding us of the importance of empathy and collective healing. Ultimately, Lamentations reassures us that God’s presence endures even amid despair, offering hope and a path toward restoration. In a world marked by loss and uncertainty, this message remains profoundly relevant today.

Bring your sorrows, pain, and trials to the Lord and He will see you through it.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 11-13; 2 Corinthians 12

The quote from Jesus, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9), provides profound encouragement and a new perspective on strength. It teaches us that true strength does not come from self-reliance or the absence of hardship, but from relying on God’s grace in the midst of our struggles. This truth can deeply transform how we face challenges and lead to spiritual growth.

It is only natural for us to ask questions about the presence of God during our worst hardships.  I have heard people ask emotional questions like “Why would God let this happen?”  “If there is a God, then why would I want to have faith in a God that does not fix or stop awful things.”

First, Jesus’ words remind us that grace—His unearned favor and help—is enough to sustain us, no matter the situation. We often look for strength in our abilities, resources, or circumstances, but Jesus shifts our focus away from self-sufficiency to dependence on His grace. This means that when we feel inadequate or overwhelmed, we can stop striving to do everything on our own. Instead, we can lean on God’s grace, which is available to us in every moment of weakness, doubt, or fear.

The Bible is the voice of God.  God does not promise ease in our lives.  God never indicated in any verse in the Bible that life on earth would be simple or easy because he would remove all pain and hardship.  In fact, scripture tells us quite the opposite.  I think this is a very important facet to remember when we witness to non-believers.  Non-believers simply have a different expectation of who and what God is, and candidly, He will never meet it.

Second, this passage teaches that God’s power is most evident when we recognize our own limitations. The world often equates strength with independence or self-reliance, but Jesus flips this concept on its head by saying that His power works best in our weakness. This doesn’t mean we should seek out suffering or challenges, but when they come, we don’t have to be defeated by them. In fact, acknowledging our need for God opens the door for His power to work more fully in our lives. When we stop trying to be self-sufficient, we experience more of God’s strength.

This truth can be incredibly freeing. It means we don’t have to be perfect, have all the answers, or live without difficulties to experience God’s power. Our weaknesses—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—can become opportunities for God to demonstrate His strength and love in our lives. By humbling ourselves and admitting that we need help, we position ourselves to receive more of God’s grace and power.

We can gain strength from Jesus’ promise by embracing our weaknesses, trusting in His grace, and depending on His power rather than our own. This shifts our perspective on difficulties, showing us that God is at work even in our most vulnerable moments. His grace is always enough, and His power is most clearly seen when we admit that we need Him. This truth brings both peace and strength, allowing us to face life’s challenges with confidence and hope.  We will never be able explain or rationalize the sins and pain we experience in this life, but God’s grace will be the profound love that carries us to our next life in Heaven, where all the pain and suffering will be worth it.  Oh, I cannot wait to see that day, but not today.

This is my second time writing on this chapter.  Here’s was my post from 2023.  Enjoy!

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

2 Corinthians 2 is a chapter in which the Apostle Paul addresses issues of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the nature of Christian ministry. The chapter reflects Paul’s heart for the Corinthian church, encouraging them to embrace forgiveness, healing, and understanding as central components of their faith. The following are key themes and how we can apply them to our Christian walk:

1. Forgiveness and Restoration (2 Corinthians 2:5-11)

In this passage, Paul addresses a case of discipline within the church. Someone had caused significant pain, likely referring to an individual previously mentioned in 1 Corinthians, who was involved in sinful behavior. Paul instructs the church to forgive and comfort the individual who repented, rather than to overwhelm him with excessive sorrow.

2. Being a Fragrance of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14-16)

Paul uses the metaphor of fragrance to describe the influence of believers. He says that through us, God spreads the “aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere.” For those being saved, this aroma is life-giving, but for those who are perishing, it is the smell of death.

3. Sincere and Faithful Ministry (2 Corinthians 2:17)

Paul concludes the chapter by contrasting his ministry with those who peddle the Word of God for profit. He emphasizes that his ministry is sincere, carried out with the authority and commission of God.

4. Dealing with Conflict and Discipline in Love (2 Corinthians 2:6-8)

Paul speaks about the need for discipline within the church but stresses that discipline should be balanced with love. He encourages the Corinthians not to be too harsh in their correction, lest the person be overwhelmed by sorrow. Instead, they should reaffirm their love for the one who has repented.

2 Corinthians 2 encourages us to live out our faith through forgiveness, sincere service, and love-driven correction. By embracing these principles, we reflect the heart of Christ in our relationships and ministries. In a world that often lacks grace and understanding, applying these teachings can create an environment of healing, unity, and spiritual growth, both within the church and in our everyday lives.

Today’s Readings:  2 Chronicles 29-31 and 1 Corinthians 8

2 Chronicles 29–31 and 1 Corinthians 8 both provide spiritual lessons that can be applied to our lives today.

2 Chronicles 29–31 (Hezekiah’s Reforms)

These chapters detail the reforms of King Hezekiah, focusing on his efforts to restore true worship in Judah after a period of spiritual decline. Hezekiah cleanses the temple, reinstates proper worship practices, and encourages the people to turn back to God with renewed devotion.

Here are some key themes and thoughts on how we can apply these verses.

1. Spiritual Renewal and Repentance:

– Application: Hezekiah’s efforts remind us of the need for personal and communal spiritual renewal. We can apply this by regularly evaluating our own spiritual lives, confessing our sins, and seeking to realign ourselves with God’s will. Just as Hezekiah sought to cleanse the temple, we can strive to remove anything in our lives that hinders our relationship with God.

2. Restoration of Worship:

– Application: Worship was central to Hezekiah’s reforms. This encourages us to make worship—both private and corporate—an important part of our lives. We can ask ourselves if we are worshiping God in spirit and truth, or if there are distractions or idols that need to be addressed.

3. Community and Leadership:

– Application: Hezekiah led the people in turning back to God, showing how spiritual leaders play a role in guiding communities toward righteousness. If you are in a leadership position, this is a reminder to lead others with integrity and devotion. If not, it highlights the importance of supporting leaders who seek God’s will.

4. Obedience and Trust in God’s Timing:

– Application: The people of Judah responded to Hezekiah’s call with obedience. This teaches us to respond to God’s call with trust, even when it involves making changes or sacrifices in our lives.

In summary, how can we apply these scriptures to our lives?

– Examine your spiritual life regularly for areas that need renewal or reform, like Hezekiah’s reforms.

– Be mindful of your actions—whether in worship, personal decisions, or lifestyle—ensuring they are guided by love and Biblcal guidance and not just knowledge or freedom.

– Seek unity in the church by being sensitive to the spiritual needs and convictions of others, even when you have the freedom to act differently. With that said, follow scripture no matter how difficult the situation may be to influence or witness a believer or non-believer.

– Lead and serve others with a heart that is committed to helping them grow closer to God.

Today’s readings:  Isaiah 7-10; Psalm 22; Matthew 26

Isaiah 7–10, Psalm 22, and Matthew 26 are significant passages in the Bible, and they share thematic connections, especially around the themes of suffering, messianic prophecy, and deliverance. Here’s how they interrelate:

Isaiah 7–10: Prophecy of Immanuel and the Messiah

These chapters contain prophecies regarding the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah 7:14 famously predicts the birth of a child, referred to as “Immanuel” (meaning “God with us”), which is later interpreted as a prophecy of the birth of Jesus. Isaiah 9 also speaks of a future child who will establish peace and righteousness—a reference often tied to Jesus Christ in Christian tradition.

Psalm 22: The Suffering Servant

Psalm 22 is often called a “messianic psalm” because of its vivid descriptions of suffering, many of which are seen as prefiguring the crucifixion of Jesus. It opens with the line, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” which are the words Jesus speaks on the cross (as recorded in Matthew 27:46). The Psalm describes intense suffering, mockery, and physical pain, and we have traditionally seen this as a prophetic anticipation of Jesus’ passion and death.

Matthew 26: Jesus’ Suffering and Betrayal

Matthew 26 recounts key events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, including the Last Supper, His betrayal by Judas, His arrest, and the beginning of His trial. These events fulfill the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah’s suffering and rejection. The agony that Jesus experiences in the Garden of Gethsemane, and His later betrayal and arrest, reflect the suffering prophesied in both Psalm 22 and Isaiah.

How They Relate

-Messianic Prophecy: Isaiah 7–10 predicts the coming of a child who will be called Immanuel and who will bring salvation to Israel. We interpret these prophecies as referring to Jesus, whose birth, life, and mission are detailed in the Gospels, including Matthew 26.

-Suffering and Redemption: Psalm 22 paints a picture of a suffering servant who is mocked, pierced, and afflicted—images that we connect to Jesus’ crucifixion. In Matthew 26, Jesus begins the path to His ultimate suffering, fulfilling the prophetic imagery found in Isaiah and Psalm 22.

– Fulfillment in the Gospels: Matthew 26 portrays events in Jesus’ life that are often seen as direct fulfillments of these Old Testament prophecies, such as His rejection by the people, His suffering, and His eventual crucifixion.

Together, these passages contribute to the overarching narrative that Jesus is the promised Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection were foretold in the Old Testament.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today’s Reading: Hosea 1-3; Mathew 16

Matthew 16:24-28 contains profound teachings from Jesus about the cost of discipleship and the true nature of following Him. These verses provide the ultimate guidance for our lives on earth. Here’s the passage:

“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.'”

1. Self-Denial as a Path to True Fulfillment:

– Meaning: Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves, which means setting aside selfish ambitions, desires, and the pursuit of personal gain that is contrary to God’s will. It involves a willingness to put God’s priorities above our own.

– Thoughts: In our lives, self-denial might look like choosing integrity over profit, humility over pride, and service over self-interest. It’s about aligning our desires with God’s purpose, even when it costs us comfort or status. True fulfillment comes not from accumulating wealth, power, or worldly success, but from living a life that honors God and serves others.

2. Taking Up Our Cross:

– Meaning: Taking up the cross symbolizes a willingness to endure suffering, rejection, or sacrifice for the sake of Christ. In the Roman context, the cross was a brutal instrument of execution, so Jesus’ command is a call to embrace whatever challenges come with following Him.

– Thoughts: In daily life, “taking up our cross” can mean standing up for our faith in a world that may not always be receptive, making sacrifices in our personal lives to follow Christ, or enduring hardships with faith. It’s a call to live courageously and faithfully, even when it’s difficult or costly.

3. The Paradox of Losing and Finding Life:

– Meaning: Jesus teaches that in trying to save our lives by clinging to worldly things, we lose what truly matters—our spiritual well-being and eternal life. Conversely, when we give up our lives (our will, our desires) for Christ’s sake, we find true life in Him.

– Thoughts: Consider what you are holding onto in your life that might be hindering your relationship with God. Are there areas where you need to let go, trust God, and prioritize your spiritual health over temporary gains? Real life is found in surrendering to God’s will and living according to His purpose.

4. The Value of the Soul:

– Meaning: Jesus emphasizes that nothing in this world is worth more than your soul. Worldly achievements, wealth, and success are fleeting, but the state of your soul has eternal significance.

– Thoughts: Reflect on what you are investing your time, energy, and resources in. Are you more focused on accumulating worldly possessions or on nurturing your spiritual life? We should evaluate our priorities to ensure that we are not sacrificing our soul for things that ultimately do not satisfy.

5. The Reality of Judgment and Reward:

– Meaning: Jesus speaks of a future time when He will return in glory and judge each person according to their deeds. This reminds us that our actions have eternal consequences, and we will be accountable for how we lived our lives.

– Thoughts: Live with an eternal perspective. Make decisions not just based on immediate outcomes but with the awareness that you will one day stand before God. Seek to live a life that reflects His love, righteousness, and truth, knowing that your faithfulness will be rewarded.

Matthew 16:24-28 challenges us to embrace a life of discipleship marked by self-denial, sacrifice, and a focus on eternal values rather than temporary worldly gains. It calls us to evaluate what we are truly living for and to make the conscious choice to follow Christ, even when it’s difficult. By doing so, we discover the true meaning of life and the eternal rewards that come from faithfully following Him.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

What a great chapter, Mathew 6!  The entire chapter is the words of Jesus, providing guidance with such great clarity!

Matthew 6:23-24 (NIV):

“But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

In these verses, Jesus emphasizes the importance of having a clear and singular focus on what is spiritually beneficial. He uses the metaphor of the eye as the lamp of the body, indicating that what we focus on influences our entire being. If our focus is unhealthy or misguided, our whole life becomes filled with darkness. Conversely, if our focus is healthy and rightly directed, our entire life is illuminated.

The subsequent verse underscores the impossibility of serving two masters, specifically God and money. Jesus highlights a fundamental truth about human nature and priorities: we can only truly be devoted to one ultimate pursuit. If we attempt to split our loyalties between God and material wealth, we will inevitably end up favoring one over the other.

1. Clarity of Vision: Our spiritual and moral clarity is crucial. What we focus on and prioritize will shape our values, actions, and ultimately, our character. Ensuring that our focus aligns with God’s will brings light and purpose to our lives.
2. Single-Minded Devotion: Divided loyalties lead to conflict and inconsistency. Jesus calls us to a single-minded devotion to God, as this is the only path to true fulfillment and peace. Serving God wholeheartedly means placing His values and commandments above all else.
3. The Danger of Temptation: What we allow our eyes to see is what we eventually tolerate and allow.  The more normalized we become to coveting, pornography, or temptation (adultery, deceit, gluttony, etc.), the more we accept these things as normal and do not recognize their negative impact on our relationship with God.
4. Trust in God’s Provision: Trusting God to meet our needs frees us from the anxiety and preoccupation with material wealth. This trust allows us to live generously, serve others, and focus on spiritual growth, knowing that God will provide for us.

In essence, these verses teach us that our life’s direction and quality are determined by where we place our focus, devotion, and what we allow ourselves to “see.” By choosing to serve God wholeheartedly, we invite His light into our lives, guiding us toward a fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT.

Today’s Readings: 1 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 10-11, Titus 1

1 Kings 12 describes the events leading to the division of the united kingdom of Israel into two separate kingdoms: Israel in the north and Judah in the south. The chapter primarily focuses on Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, and his actions as he ascends to the throne.

The People’s Request and Rehoboam’s Response:

1. Rehoboam’s Accession:

– After Solomon’s death, Rehoboam goes to Shechem where all Israel gathers to make him king.

2. The People’s Request:

– The Israelites, led by Jeroboam, ask Rehoboam to lighten the harsh labor and heavy yoke imposed by Solomon.

3. Counsel from the Elders:

– Rehoboam seeks advice from the elders who served his father. They suggest he should be kind to the people and serve them, which would secure their loyalty.

4. Counsel from the Young Men:

– Rehoboam also consults his peers, who advise him to respond harshly, asserting his authority even more than his father did.

5. Rehoboam’s Decision:

– Ignoring the elders’ advice, Rehoboam follows the counsel of the young men, telling the people he will increase their burdens.

The Division of the Kingdom:

1. Rebellion of the Northern Tribes:

– The people of Israel, feeling oppressed, reject Rehoboam’s rule and crown Jeroboam as their king, resulting in the division of the kingdom.

2. Rehoboam’s Attempt to Quell the Rebellion:

– Rehoboam gathers an army to fight against the northern tribes, but God sends a message through the prophet Shemaiah, instructing them not to fight their brothers. Rehoboam obeys and calls off the attack. The positive aspect of this story is that Rehoboam listened to God’s Word, and did not attach is Jewish brethren.

3. Jeroboam’s Actions in the North:

– Jeroboam, now king of Israel, sets up golden calves in Bethel and Dan to prevent the people from going to Jerusalem to worship, leading Israel into idolatry.  Ultimately Rehoboam’s decision to treat the Jewish people harshly, led to their move to worship false idols.

What is your approach when you need to make big decisions?  Whose counsel do you seek?  What do you pray for when need wisdom?

1. Seek and Heed Wise Counsel:

– Rehoboam’s mistake of ignoring the elders’ wise advice in favor of his peers’ harsh counsel teaches the importance of seeking and listening to experienced, wise, and godly advice when making decisions.

2. Leadership and Service:

– Good leadership involves serving and being compassionate toward those you lead. Rehoboam’s failure highlights the importance of humility and understanding in leadership roles.

3. Consider Consequences:

– Decisions have far-reaching consequences. Rehoboam’s harsh response led to the division of the kingdom. It’s crucial to consider the potential outcomes and impacts of our decisions on others.

4. Promote Unity:

– The division of the kingdom demonstrates how poor leadership and unwise decisions can lead to significant divisions. Strive for unity and reconciliation in relationships, communities, and organizations. We could certainly use more of this in our political environment today.

5. Obedience to God:

– Rehoboam’s obedience to God’s command not to fight against his fellow Israelites prevented further conflict. Being attentive and obedient to God’s guidance can lead to peace and prevent unnecessary strife. It’s too bad Rehoboam did not listen to wise counsel earlier.

By reflecting on these lessons, we can strive to make better decisions, lead with compassion, seek wise counsel, promote unity, and remain faithful to God in our own lives.  When we turn the world for wisdom and not scripture, we will fail.  There is story after story, and example after example in the Bible demonstrating the good and back path for decisions.  May we turn to our Lord and ask His strength and wisdom.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today’s Readings:  1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3, and 1 Timothy 1

The construction of Solomon’s Temple, as described in 1 Kings 6 and 2 Chronicles 3, can be correlated to today’s world in several ways, drawing parallels between the physical building of a sacred space and various contemporary themes:

1. Reverence and Dedication to God:

– Temple Construction: Solomon’s Temple was built with great reverence and dedication, using the best materials and skilled labor to create a space worthy of God’s presence.

– Modern Worship Spaces: Today, churches, temples, and other places of worship are constructed with similar dedication, aiming to create environments that honor God and facilitate worship. The emphasis on design, beauty, and craftsmanship reflects a desire to offer the best to God.

2. Spiritual Building and Inner Purity:

– Temple as a Symbol: The physical Temple symbolized God’s dwelling among His people and was a place for offering sacrifices and seeking God’s presence.

– Spiritual Temple: In the New Testament, believers are often described as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19). This emphasizes inner purity, holiness, and living lives that honor God. The construction of Solomon’s Temple can inspire individuals to focus on building their spiritual lives with care and dedication.

3. Community and Unity:

– Community Effort: The construction of the Temple was a community effort, involving many people working together towards a common goal.

– Modern Community: In today’s world, building and maintaining places of worship can bring communities together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Community service projects, charitable works, and collective worship all reflect the collaborative spirit seen in the Temple’s construction.

4. Symbol of Faith and Heritage:

– Heritage and Legacy: Solomon’s Temple represented the heritage and faith of the Israelites, connecting them to their history and God’s promises.

– Preservation of Faith Traditions: Modern religious buildings often serve as symbols of faith and heritage, preserving religious traditions and history. They remind communities of their spiritual roots and God’s ongoing work among them.

5. Sacred Spaces and Their Role:

– Sacred Space: The Temple was a designated sacred space where God’s presence dwelled, and where people could come to worship, pray, and seek forgiveness.

– Contemporary Sacred Spaces: In today’s world, designated sacred spaces continue to play a crucial role in spiritual life. They provide a place for reflection, meditation, and connection with the divine. The reverence shown in the construction of Solomon’s Temple encourages the continued respect and care for these spaces.

6. Leadership and Obedience to God’s Command:

– Solomon’s Leadership: Solomon’s obedience to God’s command in building the Temple underscores the importance of following divine guidance.

– Modern Leadership: Religious and community leaders today can draw inspiration from Solomon’s example, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God’s will, integrity, and dedication in their leadership roles.

7. Symbolism of Excellence:

– Excellence in Construction: The meticulous detail and excellence in the Temple’s construction symbolize the importance of offering our best to God.

– Pursuit of Excellence: In today’s world, this can translate to pursuing excellence in all areas of life, whether in our work, relationships, or spiritual practices, as a form of worship and dedication to God.

The construction of Solomon’s Temple offers rich symbolism and lessons for today’s world, emphasizing themes of reverence, spiritual building, community, heritage, sacred spaces, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence. These themes encourage believers to reflect on their relationship with God, their role within their community, and their commitment to living a life that honors the divine.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT