Psalm 119:97-112

What are the inclinations of my heart? What desires do I seek to fulfill. I can tell you that fasting is not something that my stomach desires, but God has led me to see the way it can fill my life. I have a hunger to be outside among creation where I can take the beauty of the sights and sounds. Like the psalmist I have a passion to read and ponder God's word. I was given this appetite early in my Christian walk and I have found it has grown through the years. I hope that I am as comitted to living the scriptural precepts that I have read as the psalmist was;"forever, to the end."
It took me almost 2 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Esther 4-7

What do we do when we feel God lead us down a path that is illegal?  That is the dilemma that Esther faced.(4:11)  Mordecai told Esther that she needed to speak to the king but the such an act of civil disobedience could prove fatal.  Esther’s reaction of fasting presents a few attitudes that Christians need to adopt when we face similar choices. 

First is to evaluate the seriousness of the situation.  In 7:4 Esther points out that she would not have violated the law if there were only comfort on the line.  But there were lives being threatened.  So she would not suffer alone.  Her intervention would potentially impact the lives of millions.

Esther would not, as Mordecai pointed out, be able to hide within the walls of the kings palace.  There was no option for inaction.  Esther had been providentially placed as queen so that she could be an example for all people.  She was going to be a light to the world based upon her faith in God.

Esther’s next step was to humble herself before God.  She may have been prevented from putting on sackcloth, but she could fast.  For three days she went without food and depended upon the LORD to deliver her from the consequences of her civil disobedience.  If she was going to rebel against the government she needed to be sure that she was fully in line with God’s will.  Breaking the law not only needed to be an intentional choice it had to be a God-directed choice.

Finally, when she chose to break the law her disobedience only jeopardized herself.  She took no one else with her as she entered the king’s throne room.  No one else would bear any earthly consequence because of her choice to disobey.  It was Esther and God walking into the valley of the shadow of death.  I believe, even though scriptures don’t reveal this, that she approached the doorway with a godly confidence; not that she would survive but that God poured into her life. 

I believe it was because of these 4 attitudes that God moved the king to extend the scepter.

It took me about 9 minutes to read this passage today.  I read chapters 1-3 yesterday but forgot to post any thoughts on my reading.

Stuart

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Paul of Tarsus

Psalm 119:81-96

God's words bring us life. They sustain us and animate us. They bring us to the throneroom of God and they show us all that he has revealed about himself to the world. His words as we have them in the pages of the Bible are more than historical refereneces to God's handiwork they are fountains of knowldege. We can join with the psalmist as he proclaims; "...for by them you have given me life." (Verse 93)
It took a little less than 2 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 119:65-80

There I was, reading psalm 119 which focuses on the greatness of God's word. And then I came to verse 67; "Before I was aflicted I went astray..." Since I am reading the ESV (English Standard Version) I wondered if other translations use a different word. I had the NIV handy; "aflicted". I was thinking that maybe this was not the best translation. So I looked it up in my theological dictonary of the Old Testament; "aflicted". The editor commented that God permitted the psalmist to endure afliction that would drive him back to God's word. That brought to mind the thought; God would prefer his beloved children to receive pain and hardship for a little while in this life so that they could enjoy his eternal rest. That's not a pleasant thought but it make sense to me. And it led the psalmist to write this poem of the greatness of God's word. I guess he appreciated God's expression of tough love.
It took me almost 2 minutes to read this portion of this psalm.
Stuart

1 Timothy 4-6

Six times in this letter Paul mentions the word godliness. 2:2 he mentions that by submitting to rulers we may live godly lives. 3:16 he explains that godliness is a pillar for life in the fellowship. 4:8 Paul points our that physical training has benefit in this life but that godliness benefits ou now and through eternity. 6:5 Paul explains that some have mistakenly assiciated godliness with personal profit. 6:6 he makes it clear that contentment must be combined with godliness. And in his last mention in 6:11 Paul calls Timothy to pursue godliness. A challenge that modern believers should take up as well.
It took me about 10 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 119:49-64

For a psalm that focuses on the reverence and power of God's word it is not a surprise that this stanza ends with a plea to be taught God's statutes. What caught my attention is the phrase that preceeds it; "The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love." I just don't see the connection. Maybe it is because of the wonder displayed in the things God created. Perhaps the psalmist looked upon the earth and noticing the goodness that is visible he also understood that only a good God could create such a good creation.
It took me less than 2 minutes to read through this portion of the 119th psalm.
Stuart

Psalm 119:33-48

In verses 44 and 45 the poet speaks of walking in the wide place because of his obedience to God's word. How does this jive with Jesus' well know proclamation of the narrow road of obediencea(Matthew 7:13-14)? Can we harmonize the psalmist wide place with the saviors narrow way? I think we can. I haven't looked at the Greek and Hebrew for these two passages, but I think my conflict arises because I tend to focus on the adjective rather than the noun. The noun in verse 45 of the psalm is a place. That gives me the idea of a destination. I think back to Abram as he travelled west from his homeland. God said he would lead him to a land but it wasn't until Abram was there that he knew he had arrived. And what did God show him when he came to the place of God's promise? A wide place (Genesis 13:14-17). It was a place of rest. But how did he get there? It was by traveling the narrow road of obedience that he arrived where God wanted him. I think we can harmonize this part of the psalm and Jesus' words in Matthew this way; Jesus focused on the journey while the psalmist focused on the destination. At least that makes sense to me.
It took me just a couple of minutes to read this portion of Psalm 119.
Stuart

1 Timothy 1-3

Speculation verses stewardship is the battle of focus that Paul warned Timothy was being wages in Ephesus.  The believers on each side of the battle may not have even understood that they were fighting.  I can see that battle in the church today.  Pick a topic that concerns a local congregation and ask if it is one that promotes unity among the believers or division.  Do the “Left Behind” books promote unity or division? (I’ve never read them so I have no opinion)  How much time do I spend pondering the mysteries that God has revealed as  opposed to those he has left hidden.  All through the church history there has been a constant tension between those who speculate on the unknowns and those who pursue stewardship regarding what it known.  I have often asked questions about scripture reference that aren’t explained in God’s Word.  I hope that I never make my questions, and speculations of their answers, anything more than just an expression of my opinion of what God might be doing to bring about his glory.

It took me about 7 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 119:17-32

In the NIV rendering of psalm 119 the word meditate is used 8 times(vss 15, 23, 27, 48, 78, 97, 99, & 148). The variety of objects that are the focus of the meditation include God's: precepts(2), decrees(2), wonders, Law, statutes, and promises. The psalmist points out that in order to ponder these revelations of God eternal nature and divine power we don't have to travel the globe. Because of God's providence to produce the Bible in a readable language we need to go no further than the pages of that sacred writing. All these attributes, and more, are recorded by eye witnesses who experienced his wonder from the ages. Once we take them into our hearts we have ready access to meditate on the traits as God led men to record.
It took just over a minute to read these two stanzas.
Stuart

Nehemiah 11-13

After the wall around Jerusalem was completed Nehemiah orchastrated a parade of praise. They had seen the opposition against their work from outside and inside the community. Then they saw God dispell all opposition. This was a parade to celebrate the victory that God had prepared. I would think that everybody was in the parade; singing and dancing. And the guest of honor watched the show from his heavely throne. I would think that he was completely thrilled and honored that they remembered how he had helped them.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 119:1-16

The intent of God's word is to introduce us to the delight that God had intended for Eden. That delightfully abundant existence does not have to wait for eternity; by grace it can begin now. There is a "process" proposed in verses 11-15 that brings us to the delight mentioned in verse 16. It begins with taking in the word of God and securing it in our inner being(vs 11). Once there God begins the process of teaching how to apply those truthes (vs 12). Then we need to share what we've learned with others (vs 13). In speaking them we will see the blessings of a godly life (vs 14). Finally we spend time meditating on the words, the truthes fully taught, and the truthes spoken (vs 15). This will open out eyes to God's truthes and allow the joy to flow into us (vs 16).  At least that flow makes sense to me.
It took just over 1 minute to read this portion of psalm 119.
Stuart

Nehemiah 8-10

When God gave Moses the Law he included three special feasts to be held throughout the year.  The Passover and Ingathering in the spring time and the tabernacles in the fall.  The exiles had forgotten about the feast of tabernacles while they were in captivity.  They did not keep the feast, nor did they pass on the truth of God’s deliverance and provision to their children.  As Ezra read to them the Law in the seventh month the people realized that they were not keeping the feast.  They were overwhelmed with sorrow because of the neglect of God’s Law that had been handed down to them.  But Nehemiah and Ezra encouraged them not to dwell on their past failures but to rejoice in the deliverance and provisions that God was raining down on them in the present and the promises that he had laid out for the future.  The message is equally true for Christians today.  There is a time for godly sorrow and repentance.  But after that we are to live in the celebration of the freedom that God has poured into us through Jesus Christ.

It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage; ten minutes for 8-9 and five minutes for chapter 10.

Stuart

Nehemiah 4-7

Nehemiah’s description of the work on the city wall in 4:15-20 provides a good picture of the spiritual work in which each Christian is to partake.  They are to be about the work of building up the church; through the evangelism of the lost and encouragement of the saved, while carrying the sword of the spirit always at their side.  The best way to take the “sword” with us (the Bible) is through memory.  And when we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us in our walk we will find that neither the building or the fighting is more than we can bear.

This took me more than 20 minutes to read.  However, I’m not sure exactly how long because I kept being interrupted.

Stuart

Psalm 118

From the begining and ending of this psalm we are reminded to thank God because his unchanging love endures forever. It holds us close to his way and loves us into obedience to his word. 
It took me about 4 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Nehemiah 1-3

Sometimes it only takes one God motivated person to inspire a whole generation.  For a period when the exiles began trickeling back to Jerusalem Nehemiah was that man. God had given him a message that Jerusalem was in disarray. But what could a lowly servant of the king do? There is no indication that Nehemiah had trained in leadership skills.  All I can figure is that Nehemiah picked up his leadership skills from observing the king of Persia.  When God connected those observations with the humility of a servant of his the results were amazing.
It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 117

The short psalm reminds us of two eternal characteristics of God that he has revealed to us that are worthy of our praise. The first one mentioned is God's love. It is steadfast in that it never changes and does not wax and wane with our obedience. It is a permant fixture in the landscape of the lives of faith. The psalmist points out that God's love is directed on us. The other trait that God wants us to see in his heart is his faithfulness. He will keep his promises. He will not change. He cannot be defeated. If he ever offered us hope he will always offer us hope. Since he promised to deliver those who follow him we can be confident that deliverance is our and it will come by his hand.
The question is not how long did it take for me to read this psalm but rather how many time could I read it in one minute.
Stuart

Ezra 8-10

Chapter 9 begins with Ezra receiving the terrible news that many of the returning exiles had married women of the nations around them. They had abandoned God's standard of holiness chasing after their own choices. Verse 3 describes Ezra's reaction; rending his garment and cloak and pulling out his hair in sorrow. In verse 6 he begins a prayer of confession. As a leader he speaks about the sins of the assembly as if they were his own. In a picture of Christ's mission Ezra assigns himself with the sinfulness of the people, not by partaking of the infidelity but because he is a part of the nation. Because of Ezra's willingness to associate himself with the sin of Israel the people were led into repentance and corrective action was taken.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 116

What does it mean to have God choose us to live for him while we are in this world? It means we can face death with confidence that God is not through with us. God hears our pleas. He watches over those who are humbled and raises them up. To provide stability and joy. But it is also the confidence that when we face the end of this life we will receive one more blessing. God looks upon his holy ones and they die and he proclaims their life precious. That is wonderful news to know.
It took me about 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Ezra 5-7

Ezra doesn't record the events that led up to the restart of the rebuilding of the temple. We know that Zerubbable challenged to people to depend upon God for provisions and that Cyrus had issued the initial decree to rebuild the temple. But some local rulers had stopped the work because the Jews refused to let them help. Now we see the returned exiles restarting the work, not waiting on a new order from the king. And God rewards their obedience to him over the king. He does this by bringing the king to side with those who sought to build the temple. Amazing how God does things like that.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 115

There are some psalms with which I struggle to find a message. Not so with this psalm. The words of praise for the living God contrasts with the lifelessness of the works of men's hands that are often the objects of our worship. The faith that we must add to our respect of God. But verse 17 caught my eye. Who are these "dead" to which the psalmist refers? Is it the physically dead because they have no physical voice? Or is it the spiritually dead because they are mute in regard to spiritual things? It could also be both of them. In contrast verse 18 overflows with the words of life which end and begin with the praise of who God is.
It took me a little less than 2 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Psalm 114

Verses 5 and 6 present a question to the realm of nature that encountered the God of Israel as he led them through the wilderness. The question is the same to the waters of the Jordan and Red Sea as well as the hills and mountains: why did you flee from the presence of the LORD? Why indeed. If creation had a voice it would continually speak of God greatness and power. Paul told the Roman Christian the creation is a silent witness to the divine power and invisible nature of God. (Romans 1:20) Why did nature move when God drew near? Not out of fear but out of loving respect and obedience. They reacted in the very way God commanded them to act. Nature is still a witness to us today.
It took me less than 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

Ezra 1-4

My imagination wanders to the chief cities in Babylon during the time when Persia takes control of the empire.  What were the Jewish exiles thinking?  Did any of them realize that it had been 70 years since Jerusalem was broken down and the temple burnt?  Or did they look at this new tyrant with fear over what new atrocities will be delivered onto God’s people for their stubborn rebellion.  And when the dust had settled and Cyrus had established his rule over the expanded empire how did the Jews react.  There were no attacks.  No new decrees demanding that they compromise their faith.  Did Daniel call for patient trust in God’s faithfulness?  How many were surprised when they read Cyrus’ decree?  How many Jews realized that God always keeps his promises?  How many old men shouted with joy that they could be buried with their fathers?  I know that God was not surprised.  He had been planning that day of the decree since before creation.  But I also can’t help but think that God smiled when the Jews, his chosen people, realized what he was doing and gave his thanks.

It took about 20 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 113

Positions of authority are normally seated higher than those of subordinates. That is why a judges bench is above the floor. God's bench is described as higher than the heavens. Nothing and no one on earth is as high as God's authority; let alone higher. And God provides a wonderful contrast in his authority when compared to the rulers of this world in that he never corrupts justice. If the vulnerable are guilty he proclaims that, but he grants no favor to the wealthy and connected. God shows no favoritism. When he views the masses the ruler of the people is just as lowly as the street person. And equally as true both ends of the social structure are valued in God's sight. That is why the psalmist offers praise to God and the same reason we should pour out praise from our lives as well.
It took me about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Corinthians 10-13

In chapter 12 Paul mentions the thorn that God sent to his life.  I wonder if the thorn came before, during, or after all of the abuse that Paul mentioned in 11:23-27?  I’m thinking that the thorn was God’s preparation for all that Paul endured.  When he learned contentment regarding the thorn God wouldn’t remove he was able to live in contentment while facing all of the struggles mentioned in chapter 11.  I think there is a lesson there for me well.  The difficulties that God allows into my life are intended to strengthen and prepare me for the battles that are to come.  His difficulties will teach me to focus on him so that when the attacks come I can stand strong.  Paul was victorious over the 39 lashes not because he didn’t receive them but because he received them in Jesus’ name.  God displayed his power in Paul’s life not by stopping three ships from wrecking but by delivering Paul from the sea after each one.  God didn’t keep Paul out of prison, but enabled him to testify of God’s provisions to Roman guards while setting in chains.  If God hadn’t sent Paul to prison then Caesar’s household may not have heard the Gospel of Christ.  That teaching goes directly contrary to our American attitudes, but I believe it is right in-line with the passions that God seeks to develop in his people.

It took me about 18 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

2 Corinthians 7-9

There are times in my life when I think I know to what Paul was referring in 7:5; being afflicted on every side.  Paul was facing oppression in front of him, behind him, above him, below him, and each side of his work.  But he was also facing persecution on the inside; the flesh at war with his spirit as he strived to walk with God’s Holy Spirit.  There are times in life when I can’t escape the pressures of this world.  But isn’t that part of what Jesus focused on in his prayer in John 17:15?  Jesus prayed, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.”  It is not that God will eliminate the opposition that we face but rather that he will enable us to endure and shine like the lights as he has made us.  That we will be a reflection of the pillar of fire at night and the cloud of God’s presence by day.  Our comfort in contentment will enable us to offer comfort over fear of the darkness and cooling of emotions under the heat of the day.  Such victories will not be easy on our part, but because of God’s indwelling Spirit at work in our lives they will be possible.

This section took me about 11 minutes to read.

Stuart

Psalm 112

Verse 6 makes a statement about the person who is righteous; he will not be moved. There will be no shifting of his stance. It is like the description Jesus gave of the wise man's house (Matthew 7:24-25). The psalmist says that bad news does not bring fear to the righteous. This calmness is based upon faith in the LORD to deliver through any difficulty. God does not write off the horror of the bad news. Nor does he relegate fears to trivial situations. God enables the righteous to hang on to his ability to deliver us from the difficult times.
It only took 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Corinthians 4-6

How can I focus on the things that are not seen? How can I realize that the house that I tend is temporary? That is what Paul was challenging the first century believers to do. And he wants us to take up the same challenge. Our hope must be soley based on our faith in the invisible power of the Lord.
It took me right at 10 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 111

Verse 4 of this psalm proclaims that God has caused his wonderous works to be remembered. Then I see the next 5 vereses listing examples of those wonders. The food that he has provided. I wonder if he is refering to the daily bread he brings and not the manna in the wildreness. The inheritance of the promised land was a display of his power over other nations. Teachings that are trustworthy and apply to the lives of all beilievers through out history. And finally that God provides redemption for his people. These are wonderful displays of power which we can all appreciate.
It took me about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Corinthians 1-3

Toward the end of chapter 3 Paul encourages those first readers of this letter that the Spirit of God is working in them to transform them into a glorious image of God's glory. Christians today have that same promise. As recipients of the promise that is greater and longer lasting than the Law we have a hope that is able to carry us through the struggles of life caused by the pain of suffering. I don't think it matters if the suffering is through persecution of ailment so long as we seek to depend upon God to bring us through the hardship. All of the glory we will behold in our life come to us through God's Spirit. And for that we can have joy.
It took me about 10 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 110

I wonder if David had a vision of the devine conversation that is recorded in this psalm? Did he see some form of the Almighty speaking to a man crowned with many crowns as he received God's promises to rule over all the earth and the appointment to the Melchizedek priesthood? Was David as perplexed about the opening statement in Psalm 110 as the Pharisees where when Jesus quoted them the same phrase? (Matt. 22:41-46) I can only begin to imagine what David experienced that led him to pen this song of royal adoration. It must have made a wonderous impression on the son of Jesse because he recognized two who are greater than he; the LORD of Israel and the other ruler, the one we know to be Jesus.
It only took about 1 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Obadiah

One message that Obadiah delivers to the 21st century world is that Gosd is very much aware of all that is happening in the world. The genocide in Congo has not esacped God's notice. The pirates of Solmolia do not sail freely away from God. I think Obadiah also explains God's reason for delaying his intervention: "on that day". Twice Obadiah mention the day of God's judgement and he relates that Edoms actions form another day will be accounteds on that day. We live in a time where many believe that God either does not exist or care or even notice. But another possibility is that God is strengthening his people to share his message and allow the world to respond to his truth.
It took me about 6 minutes to read Obadiah's vision.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 34-36

The biggest problem with this passage is that we are only given the narrowest picture of life in Judah. Manasseh wicked premissiveness had so permeated the land that even the whole-hearted righteousness of Josiah for 31 years was not enough to turn the hearts of the people back to God. Though Josiah outlived the generation from the end of his evil father's rule he was unable to lead the revival that Judah needed to restore their relationship with God. Only an exile would bring about God's purpose. I wonder how Josiah felt when the words of the prophetess were brought back. Did he wonder if he could persuade God to relent? Did he bargin like Abram did over Sodom? Did he plead with his sons like Lot did with his daughter's betrothed? I can't see him taking comfort in know that he would not live to see God's punishment.
It took me two different settings today to read this passage. I kept being interrupted.  It probabaly took me a total of 20 minutes to read it.
Stuart

Psalm 109

Today I read about the persecution that the church in Vietnam is facing. Both Catholics and prodistents are under severe oppression because they are no longer willing to live under the repressive rules set down by the govenment. The people are moving their prayer vigils out into the streets where they are facing abuse and beatings. But they are holding fast to their faith. Maybe they are heeding the words of this psalm of David; turning over the attacks of those who oppress us and allow God to mediate and direct the paths of their lives in other areas.
It took me about 5 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 31-33

The lives of Hezekiah and Manasseh seem to be total opposites of each other. The father served God fervently throughout his life and the son rejected God consistently during his. But both men gave in to their pride, were confronted by God os their rebellion, repented and returned to God, and ended their lives with a time of sincere devotion to the LORD.  When I look at the comments of both these kings one message speaks the clearest; God will receive a repentant heart no matter what history is recorded. When Hezekiah sinned all of his good works and dependance on the LORD were meaningless. It was in his repentance and subseqent submission to God that granted him favor before God.  In the same way Manasseh's rebellion and lifetime of refusal to follow the Law of the LORD were meaningless after he surrendered in that jail cell. In his repentance and submission to God he recived the favor from God that had been lacking for most of his life.
It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 108

David was, among many other things, a man who expressed himself in song. So when he gave thanks to God it came out in a song. When he praise God there was another song. When David expressed his thanksgivings for God's provision and wisdom it came out as another song. David poured his heart out to God in song after song. Even his prayers became songs and psalms. I wonder if David spend more time singing than he did talking? But does that mean that singing is the only form of expressing the same responses to God by all people? I believe it is not. Some people may use words. Other will use pictures. People gifted to sculpt will share stone for the adoration of God's majesty. It may be in athletic expression, or dance, or service. With 6 billion people alive today there is surely a great vastness in the breadth of expression of how God has impacted each believer's life. I believe that any method can be an acceptable expression of one person's heart to God. 
It took about 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 28-30

In the days of Ahaz king of Judah the people of God rejected the Law.  They were unfaithful to the LORD placing their faith and hope in what their hands could make and their minds could reason. So God sent armies against Judah. In 28:6 it is reported that 120,000 valient men died in battle. I see a powerful lesson it that statistic; it is not bravery that wins any battle but God's provision. A million brave but rebellios fighters can face a dozen frightened but faithful believers in battle and God is able to bring about a victory by the dozen. I should be confident in what I have been able to do but keep my focus on what I allow God to work through me.
It took me about 16 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 107

How long can I dwell on the thought that ends this psalm; "...let them consider the steadfast love of the LORD." I know that his love for me, for every person in history, moved him to send Jesus to the cross. I know that his love sought out Adam and Eve in the garden, and clothed them rather than slay them. I know that his love led him to notice Noah's righteousness when the rest of the world was imploding from selfish excesses. I know that love built a friendship between God and Abram, and gave him a new name; Abraham. I know it was the love for all people in history that move God to make that promise to Abraham that all people would be blessed through him. I know that I could look at every godly person in the Bible and throughout history and see the power of God's love displayed in every frame of their lives. That would be the extent of my consideration of the steadfast love of God. But I also know that would be the smallest of fractions of the whole story of his love.
It took me about 5 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 25-18

King Uzziah began his reign by seeking after God. Unfortunately, he claimed the accumulation of wealth and influence as his own making and grew proud of himself. The last part of chapter 26 tells the story of Uzziah's rebellion against God.  At the height of his power I picture him strolling about the roof of his palace reviewing the expanse of Jerusalem, enjoying the work of his hands.  Then his eyes fell upon the temple building, and a thought like this sprung up in his proud mind. "I rule over every building in this city excapt that one."  Maybe he questioned; "Why can't I make a sacrifice to God myself? After all I am the King of Judah." Something in his pride filled him with the appetite of burning inscence before God within the Holy place. Maybe he even considered entering before the ark itself. I assume that Uzziah marched down the stairs of his palace and heade to the temple. He might have ignored the greetings of the gatekeepers and the songs of the singers. The king had one selfish goal in his heart so he marched forward toward the altar. He picked up a censor somewhere but the priests on duty took notice of the stranger in their midst. "What is the king doing?" Must have rushed through the descendants of Aaron. When they saw him gather some coals from the altar they understood his intent. Eighty priest rushed into the Holy place and block his way to the altar of incense. There they rebuked the king for his evil intentions. Uzziah became angry with them but God stood with the priests by inflicting Uzziah with leporacy right there. The king fled the temple and was humiliated the rest of his life. What a sad ending for such a promising king.
It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 106

How quick am I to forget? I forget names of people quickly unless I repeat them often. I forget appointments frequently and need to make reminders days in advance. But I haven't forgot my first view of the Grand Canyon, or Old Faithful, or Mount Rushmore, or even Half Dome. I remember the first time I picked up my oldest niece when she was 3 days old. I recall the details of the neo-natal ICU where one of my twin nephews struggle to overcome an infection and premature birth. I remember the day I came up out of the waters of baptism. The greatest moments in life are etched in my memory. Which is why I struggle with forgetting what God has done in my life. I don't want to forget. I want to learn from the mistakes that Israel made. I want to continually recognize God's presence with me. Because it is in those memories and the realization that his loving kindness does endure forever that I will see God at work in my life. 
It took me about 4 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 22-24

Joash was born in the first year that his father, Ahaziah, began his reign as king.  His aunt spirited the baby to safety when the dead king’s mother began killing all of the heirs to the throne.  Joash was hidden him for 7 years in the temple; protected from his grandmother’s fury.  For that time he was probably assumed to be the high priest’s son.  But then his true identity was revealed; King of Judah.  God’s merciful rescue from death and the upbringing of a righteous priest did not keep Joash from turning to the false idols that the people desired.  And the king allowed the culture to change him and lead his away from God.  In his self-righteousness he refused correction by the son of his surrogate father and responded with the same fury from which God had rescued him; murdering Zechariah much like his grandmother intended to murder him.  Joash chose the way of the world over the Law of God with which he had grown up.  All of his early work to cleanse the land of idolatry and restore the temple was forgotten because he wouldn’t remain true to the LORD of Israel.  The life a Joash is a sad commentary on the way we people quickly forget all the good that God has done for us.

It took me about 16 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 105

It took me about 4 minutes to read this psalm. A psalm that focused on God's wonderful work of preparing Egypt for Jacob's arrival and then the nations departure. All of it planned to fulfill the promise made to Abraham. It is good to look back and remind ourselves of all that God has done. How he turned evil actions into the means to honor his plan. Of the times when God stepped in and delivered our needs in miraclous ways. How he gave us a shelter from the scorching sun and a night light to calm our fears. The character of God described in psalm 105 is still at work in the life of the church today. And that is something we needs to remember.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 19-21

In chapter 18 it is recorded how Jehoshaphat realized the 400 prophets whom Ahab assembled were not speaking for the LORD. In chapter 20 Jehoshaphat gathered a multitude to plead with their God. When he had finished praying and was waiting before the LORD one man spoke up. Scripture doesn't indicate that Jahaziel was recognized as a phrophet. But Jahaziel felt led to speak a message of confidence before the crowd and the king. When he had finished speaking the king accepted Jahaziel's words as being inspired and acted on them. But what was it about the words and the speaker that legitimized the message in the king's heart? He spoke in the name of the LORD. He was very specific in his instructions. But maybe the point that convinced Jehoshaphat was that the message called for faith as well as action. Deliverance was promised to come from the LORD not the army of Judah. I don't know if those were the words that convinced the King but when he acted accordingly God did provide. 
It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 16-18

There are two thronerooms depicted in this chapter. The first one mentioned is in Samaria. Two kings are seated on their thrones; Ahab king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah. Ahab sought to include Jehoshaphat in a battle he wished to wage, but Judah's king steadfastly sought God's approval before he embarked on this joint battle. So Ahab called together his 400 prophets asking for guidence from the divine. The 400 spoke in unison to attack, but there was something that caught righteous Jehoshaphat's attention. What was it? The only clue I catch is in the words of the prophets in verse 5; the formal name of the God of Israel (Yahweh) is not mentioned. Maybe it was the sacrifices they made; not according to the LORD's directive. Maybe Jehoshaphat knew God didn't send such large numbers of prophets. Whatever it was the king of Judah was waiting for the one voice that spoke clearly for the LORD. And he would not move until he heard it.
Micaiah was that lone voice of the God of Israel in that throneroom. Before he spoke he had a vision from God of the second throneroom mentioned in chapter 18. In front of God's throne was a large collection of the angelic assembly. Out of that huge gathering God was waiting for the one voice that would answer the LORD's request. In verse 21 the spirit offers a lie for Ahab's ears. The scripture doesn't say if this was a demon or angel. But a lie from the mouths of Ahab's prophets was the answer to God's directive of leading Ahab to his death.  This is a situation where the physical realm matched the spiritual realm perfectly.
 It took me about 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 104

The message of this psalm I virtually the same as Romans 1:20. The difference is not in the length of the words but in the adoration poured out. Paul's one verse declaration of the witness of creation for God's greatness carries equal impact as the 35 verses of Psalm 104. Both authors were moved by the fingerprint of God that is evident in creation, but each authored expressed their praise through different medium. I believe that God accepts and honors all types of praise regardless of their presentation. So long as he is the object of praise the words are aimed correctly.
It took me about 3 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 12-15

The message of this passage of 2 Chronicles is very similar to the message of the book of Judges; be faithful to God and he will protect and bless, but rejecting him leads to his rejection.  Rehoboam was born in the first year of Solomon’s reign.  So he grew up knowing only his father as king.  He must have neglected the study of David’s words because he lived ignorant of God’s Law.  And his rule was scared because of that neglect.  Only when faced with calamity did he turn from his evil ways.  So maybe Rehoboam passed on his life lessons to his son and grandson, for they sought out God much like David had.  Because of the faithfulness of the generations that followed Rehoboam God granted his people rest in the land of rest.  A picture of the abundance that God offers those who are committed to him.

It took me about 13 minutes to read this passage.

Stuart

Psalm 103

What has God done for you? That seems to be the unspoken question that surfaces while David calls the people into worship of God. Have we forgotten the provisions of his hand? Have we given him thanks for the salvation that he has given us? Though we are all insignificant in comparison to God's greatness he showers his love on us. He does not demand that we rise to his level, which is higher than the sky. Instead he comes down to our level. Here he can show us the abundance of his love. When we recognize all of these attributes about God, which is only a glimpse of his full nature, then we can see the reason for his praise. Bless the LORD, O my soul.
It took me just a couple of minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

Psalm 102

Affliction and pain carry people away from the joys of life. When we are in the depths of anguish and we feel like we have no where else to turn we Christians have the hope of Israel on our side. He may not remove the pain from our lives, but he can. He may not strike down our enemies, but such authority is rightfully his. What we have is complete access to our Heavenly father. He not only comprehends our pain, but he will listen to all of our hurts and adopt our grief as his own. That is the indication of the full expression of God's love for us.
It took me almost 3 minutes to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 8-11

The peoplw of Israel came to Rehoboam to make him king over Israel. But the burdens paced upon them by Solomon had overwhelmed them. So they sought reflief. But Rehoboam displayed an attitude opposite of what Jesus later declared in Matthew 11:28-30. Because Rehoboam began to follow the leadership pattern of this world God's people rejected him as king.
It took me 12 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart

Psalm 101

David looked at the people around him and saw that there were some who were living outside of God's covenant while he dwelt in the covenant land. This psalm is over flowing with anger. But it is not an anger directed towards people who do not know God. David's sternest judgment is focused on the people of Israel who dishonor their LORD through their lawless deeds and selfish attitudes. The unrepentent people of Jerusalem will receive the king's wrath. 
It took just over 1 minute to read this psalm.
Stuart

2 Chronicles 5-7

Chapter 7 details the sacrifices that Solomon and the people made to the LORD when the temple was dedicated. Verse 10 details the day of the year when the dedication was completed. It seems that the Day of Atonement was chosen as the day to move the ark of the covenant into the newly completed temple building. On that day the articles of the temple were cleansed to be acceptable for their use before the LORD. What a wonderful way to present to God and his people the new place of worship. This is a different timing from the first time that the tabernacle was erected. It was set up in time to hold the Passover feast (Exodus 40:2-8). I'm sure there is a lesson to be taught in the differences of timing.
It took me about 15 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart