For a description of the (Y2) reading plan, see the “About” page.
John 4
I noticed another one of those small but interesting little details in this passage this morning. After meeting the woman at Jacob’s well, Jesus stayed and taught the Samaritans in her town for two days. John notes, “And because of His words many more became believers.” (John 4:41). A few days later Jesus was back in Galilee. He told them, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe.” (John 4:48). A few verses prior to that, John made the comment, “Now Jesus Himself had pointed out that a prophet has no honor in His own country.” (John 4:44).
All it took for the Samaritans was Jesus’ words. Yet even with signs and wonders, His own people were reluctant to believe. What does it take for me to have faith? Do I doubt Jesus’ words when I don’t get the answers to prayer and the blessings I desire? God give me faith to take you at your Word, even when things don’t go the way I think they should!
1 Chron. 10-11
The chronicler likes to tell us not only what happened, but why. What is his explanation for Saul’s demise and death? What is your take away? I see the makings of a pattern here. The Chronicler traced the genealogical history of Israel and Judah up to the point of their exile. He then wrote, “They were taken captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness.” (1 Chron. 9:1b). He then repeated Saul’s genealogical history, leading into the explanation of the death of Saul and three of his four sons. Again he wrote, “Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD” (1 Chron. 10:13a).
Ps 74
Have you ever felt abandoned or forgotten by God? How does the psalmist resolve this? The Psalmist starts this Psalm by expressing how he feels due to the circumstances around him. Things were bleak, for sure. If a person didn’t know any better, they might think God had been defeated. And if a person knew better, they still might think God had abandoned His people completely. But then the Psalmist turns to what he knows. “But God is my King from long ago; He brings salvation on the earth.” (Ps. 74:12). He remembers God’s power, he remembers God’s promise, and he remembers that God will not be mocked. These are the kinds of truths about God that help us to look past what we see, think, and feel and cling to what is real.