#scripture challenge

[thewordfortheday]

Nahum 1:7

'The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of distress; He cares for those who trust in Him.'

The Lord is good - never doubt or question His goodness towards you. Things may not always make sense, but He remains good and faithful. 'In the day of distress' He will not fail you, but He will be your stronghold. Trust in Him and let your whole heart rest secure in His care and love for you.

PRAYER: Lord, You are a Good, Good Father. I choose to trust You with the full knowledge that You will be my Stronghold in the midst of my challenges. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

[livinglifeagainblog]

Prayer of the Day

Heavenly Father, I come before You seeking peace in my heart and mind. Help me to embrace Your presence, to meditate on Your Word, and to cultivate gratitude daily, so that I may find tranquility in the chaos of life. Guide me in releasing my worries and trusting in Your perfect plan, for I know that true peace comes from You.

As I journey through these challenges, may Your love surround me, filling me with the strength I need to let go of burdens and embrace forgiveness. Thank You for Yours unwavering support. In Jesus' name, I pray. AMEN

[blissfulcabin7]

[ae-cha08]

God gave Joseph a dream that he was destined for greatness, but before that dream came true, he went through some very dark places. However, the Bible shows how God connected the dots. Every step was divinely orchestrated and moving Joseph toward his destiny.

As was true in Joseph's life, you have to believe that a disappointment, a betrayal, or a setback is part of God's plan. It's moving u little by little into ur destiny.

God knows what He's doing. What looks like trouble is really the hand of God. Keep doing the right thing despite the trouble, and one day, God is going to connect the dots for you.

[simplyghosting]

I’ll be honest, for as many years at I’ve seen October art/writing challenges (and art challenges the rest of the weeks/months of the year), I’ve only attempted a few and never finished any.

That being said, I think what I’m going to do for my umpteenth attempt this new October is to just.. do. Just do something every day. Any challenge, any prompt, any event, even if it’s mixed and mismatched. Doesn’t matter if it’s finished, though I will try for it. A few well-typed sentences, a sketched drawing, an unfinished study, I’ll still label them a success. I want my goal for this month to be to make improvements in my art and passions and to make an effort. Not bogged down by perfectionism or despair or lack of motivation or whatever else may stop me. I want to make the challenge of this month for me to live my life thoughtfully and love and respect what I bring into it again.

[e-devotion]

Another word about Proverbs

It has been almost thirty years since I was first encouraged to read the book of Proverbs every day.  I shared yesterday about the Proverbs challenge, the commitment to read one chapter every day.

An older pastor shared what another pastor had challenged him with many years before.  That challenge has stuck with me and been shared by me so many times since.  As Robert Frost said, “and that has made all the difference.”  It has in lots of ways.

This week I return to that truth as summer begins.  When you are resting, enjoying life, spending time with family, thinking about what’s going on with you, spend time in Proverbs, and let the wisdom of God permeate every area of home, work and play of your life.

An incredible writer I follow is Paul David Tripp.  His books and articles have given me much to think about.  In light of my commitment to read Proverbs every day and the challenge for you to join me, check out Tripp’s word on Proverbs …

Proverbs 15:1

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 

The Bible tells us that harsh words create problems rather than solve them. I know you have experienced this in your life! Maybe it’s during a difficult but necessary conversation with your spouse at the end of a stressful day. You think you’re making progress, but they throw in a nasty comment. Your chest tightens, your body temperature rises, and your mind starts racing, searching for an equally ugly retort.

Suddenly, what started as a productive, unity-building conversation has ended in anger, distance, and silence.

Or maybe your child’s selfishness has been revealed, and God, in his rescuing mercy, has given you a divine opportunity to expose the idols of their heart. But sadly, your sin gets in the way, and you use words in a manner that ignores Ephesians 6:4—“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger.”

Your harsh vocabulary selection has escalated hostility and defensiveness rather than producing an atmosphere of receptivity and confession that a gentle correction might have cultivated.

And now, since everyone has a smartphone, YouTube and social media are loaded with videos of complete strangers getting into scary altercations on the road, in supermarkets, or at sports games because of a single harsh word!

But does a soft answer turn away wrath, 100% of the time, unequivocally, without fail? The writer of Proverbs isn’t giving us a guaranteed solution that every time I speak a gentle word to an angry person, I will experience harmony. You know that to be true!

You see, God has not included the Proverbs in Scripture to be used in a mechanical, machine-like way. You can’t turn one cogwheel and expect the rest to rotate in sync. But many of us try to apply the Proverbs to our lives in this way.

It’s similar to what I wrote last week: we treat these verses as isolated, individual nuggets of wisdom in a pile, picking away at them in the hopes of finding something applicable for the moment.

If we study the Proverbs like this, we’ll miss the richness contained in the book. Instead, embedded in each Proverb is the plotline of the whole Biblical story: Creation, Fall, and Redemption.

Creation: The Proverbs points us to the perfect world as God designed it to be. As you read the Proverbs, you ought to marvel at the beauty of God’s original plan while mourning over the loss of that world.

Fall: The Proverbs remind us of the reality that foolishness is everywhere, that temptation exists, and that dark dangers threaten us at every turn. As you read the Proverbs, you ought to be placed on high alert.

Redemption: For the children of God, the Biblical story ends wonderfully. This terribly damaged world will be restored by grace and reconciled by God’s goodness. As you read the Proverbs, you ought to be joyful and hopeful, looking forward to the renewal of all things.

So how would you re-read Proverbs 15:1 in light of this narrative?

In the beginning, words were perfect. God and man spoke freely, and Adam and Eve never uttered a harsh word to each other.

Then the fall happened, and words were used to tempt, blame, and curse.

1 Peter 2:23

And then arrived Christ: “When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.” 

Because Christ used words perfectly, we will one day enjoy peace and harmony forever and ever! That’s the redemptive narrative embedded into Proverbs 15:1, and while we aren’t guaranteed to get a favorable reaction today, it will happen someday. And because we’re headed in that direction, we will experience blessing along the way for doing as God commands.

This is how the Proverbs are designed, exploding with more profound meaning and encouragement than any mechanical, isolated nugget could ever provide.

[no-weapons]

I'd actually like to let this video speak for itself though I strongly advise it is watched. May God give you the guidance, wisdom and understanding you're seeking for. Amen.

| S.M |

[renaissance35]

Simply Honest this scripture is, beautiful in truth 🕊️🙏

It's true, as many years go by life changes, a lot, new year, new friends, family, places, opportunities, challenges. New life. Anything could happen, rather it's good or another test. Whatever it might be for you, just remember, just because everything changes just know his understanding, his love for you will stay the same forever.

God bless you all and I hope your having a happy new year🎇✝️ 👋 🙏 😇 🕊️ ☮️✌️🎇

[sacrecoeurenjoyer]

Day 1 - Prayer Challenge!

Ten Days of Praying Challenge Day 1 A Call to Praise God FOCUS VERSE: Ephesians 5:19-20 Speaking to one another in psalms and hymn and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are many ways to praise: singing, dancing, or simply just kneeling down to pray. Isn’t prayer such a beautiful thing? To be able to go before your Creator Himself, to speak with Him… oh, glory be to God! No matter how your day has been, it is certainly a blessing you woke up today. It is a blessing that you are still here, right now, able to read and see this post. 

In fact: I praise God because of you. Praise be to God, who has woken you up today, who has strengthened you and made you so fearfully and wonderfully made, who has given you His grace, who has shown you His mercies… Sometimes, in the midst of our trials or even our blessings, it can be hard to remember to make time for the Lord. Or to even be grateful for what He has done. Nonetheless, it remains to be an important thing to do. For when we fix our eyes onto the Lord and recognize His character, His works-- what He has done, does, and will-- and who He is, we think of things above us. In times where the days our evil, this is an essential. Throughout this ten day challenge of which I am thankful to be able to have the grace to be doing, it is my prayer that we open our hearts to not only ask of the Lord, but to praise Him. PRAYER: O Lord, that we may turn our hearts, souls, minds, strength to You! Our glorious Father in Heaven, You sent your Son to die on the cross for us, and we praise You for it! Thank You, for You O God above, are with us in every trial and every circumstance! May you open our eyes and ears and all of our senses to bring praise to Your holy name not only in what we say, but in what we do! May we worship in Spirit and truth, and go forth as a renewed and holy people preaching the Gospel of Christ --and may it be the true Gospel-- around the world, remembering and sharing what Christ has done for us! In Jesus’ name, Amen!!!

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory be… DEEPER STUDY: Psalm 103:1-3 1 Praise the Lord, my soul;

    all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

2 

Praise the Lord, my soul,

    and forget not all his benefits—

3 

who forgives all your sins

    and heals all your diseases, Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. Psalm 63:3-4DAILY QUESTION:What is something you are grateful for that you didn’t have in the past?Want some more? Check out these songs!Give Thanks - Various Christian Artists/Don Moen

Psalm 124 Song “Our Help is in the Name of the LORD” (Esther Mui)

How Great Thou Art - Carrie Underwood

Holy God, We Praise Thy Name - Benedictines of Mary, Queen of the Apostles

I Sing The Mighty Power of God - Rebecca Hincke

[blissfulcabin7]

From the devotional - Standing firm in unsettling times by Skip Heitzig - from the Youversion Bible app.

[ae-cha08]

Whatever I am going through, I only need to keep my focus on my God and not my circumstances. Jesus will personally hold me up when I can’t go on another moment. He doesn’t do it because He has an obligation to me. He gives me His strength because He loves me. Always and forever. ✨️

[trberman]

Standing Firm in Faith: A Latter-day Saint Perspective on Pride Month, Spiritual Rebellion, and the Call to Humility and Repentance

Disclaimer: The thoughts, ideas, and teachings are of the contributing writer’s own perspective and does not constitute any official doctrinal position or teaching that is representative of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. however, these ideas and teachings are based on official sources and scriptural authority. OverviewIntroduction: Pride Month Through a Scriptural LenseSection…

[e-devotion]

Proverbs challenge

Back to something I have shared many times, and I challenge you once again to take the proverbs challenge.  Read one chapter every day!

Proverbs has 31 chapters and most months have 31 days.  That means reading one chapter per day is a great addition for any of us that make that choice.  I have experienced this truth and seen examples of how God’s truth impacts my life in this way. 

It is June 3rd, and you can read Proverbs 3.  This chapter and some of those verses bring us so much wisdom. Check it out.  Proverbs 3 (from the New Living Translation) or at least part to it:

1-2  My child, never forget the things I have taught you.  Store my commands in your heart.  If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying.

Awesome and a great plan for children to follow great parents.

3-4 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder.  Write them deep within your heart.  Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.

Two of the things that should be deep in each of us.  It is good to have this kind of favor.

5-6   Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

The most recognizable part of this chapter are these.  Might even be the most important ones too.

7-8  Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.  Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.  Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.

I’ll just leave those right there.

9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.  Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.

Honor God above everything even with your money and possessions. 

11-12  My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you.  For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

More about home, parents and children with promises.

13-18  Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.  For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold.  Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.  She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left.  She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying.  Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly.

Wisdom is an important part of our lives.  Another reason to add Proverbs to each and every day. 

21-26  My child, don’t lose sight of common sense and discernment.  Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul.  They are like jewels on a necklace.  They keep you safe on your way, and your feet will not stumble. You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly.  You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security.  He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.

I want that kind of peace and perspective when things are falling apart.

27-31  Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them.  If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.”  Don’t plot harm against your neighbor, for those who live nearby trust you.  Don’t pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm.  Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways.

32-35  Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers his friendship to the godly.  The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright.  The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble.  The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame!

Take the challenge.  Make Proverbs a part of each day of your life.

[annmariemo]

Final Thoughts

This book was a bit more intensive than I was expecting. It is a true study on the ways Jesus and the disciples tackled their faith and how we as modern day christians have shifted away from the old ways. It gives the readers steps the author believes will strengthen your faith and bond with Jesus and God. This book really pushed me to really dive deeper into scripture and my understanding of what’s in the Bible. It also had me looking at what Jesus really intended with all the messages he had for us all in the New Testament. This book has changed the way I approach my Bible study and my understanding of what I am reading. 

I found this book to be very dry and really hard to read. Many of the sections I felt were over my head and I had to read certain paragraphs more than once before I understood what was trying to be conveyed. I had to take multiple breaks while reading this just so I didn’t DNF. This book really pushed me as a reader and I definitely wasn’t prepared for that. It took me two and a half months to finish and for me that was much longer than I was used to. 

I loved that this book pushed me not only as a reader but as a christian to look deeper into my bible and scripture. This book references many different verses and chapters of the bible that I hadn’t read yet. I can confidently say that I have more knowledge of scripture than I had when I started this book. It has really stoked a fire in me to continue to study and learn more and search for other works that can help further what I know. 

This book was definitely a push to get through; however now that I am done I am so glad that I finished. That is why I am giving this book a 3 out of 5. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to dive deeper into the disciples and the ways they approached faith. Also anyone that is interested in Theology might enjoy this book as well.

[wendymerritt-blog]

How did last week’s verse go? Was it a breeze or a bit of a brain twister like it was for me?

[chiclovesyou]

here’s a thread I write about Male Christian Influencers vs actual Bibical Christlike Masculinity. for funsies.