For a description of the (Y2) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Matt. 24
When Jesus’ disciples pointed out the magnificence of the temple buildings, Jesus gave what for them was no doubt an unexpected response. “’Do you see all these things?’ He asked. ‘Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.’” (Matt. 24:2). That made me think how insignificant even the most prized achievements of this world are. The eight wonders of the world? Nothing. The world’s tallest buildings and greatest works of architecture? Nada. Everything in Guinness’ Book of World Records? Meaningless. No matter how mighty, magnificent, and trustworthy these things seem, they will all someday be reduced to dust. Only God is God. As Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matt. 24:35)
Jer. 15-16
What is Jeremiah’s complaint to the Lord (15:15-18)? How does God respond? God made a promise to Jeremiah. “I will save you from the hands of the wicked and deliver you from the grasp of the cruel.” (Jer. 15:21). Great, right? Who doesn’t love a good rescue? Except for one thing. In order to be rescued from their hands, he first had to be in their hands. Maybe not so great after all. God also assured Jeremiah that the people would fight him at every turn. God wasn’t promising to make Jeremiah untouchable, only non-overcomable.
The Bible makes it clear to me that we cannot expect a life free from trouble, especially as God’s faithful children. Quite the opposite, really. I believe the Bible promises that we will have trouble because of our faith. It’s what we do with that truth that matters. Do we, like Jeremiah here, focus on the pain and thus utter worthless words? “You are to me like a deceptive brook, like a spring that fails.” (Jer. 15:18b). Or do we focus on God, who is not the cause of our pain, and rejoice in the sure hope of His eternal promises?
Ps. 119:89-176
Read the second half of this psalm on God’s word and pick out one or two ideas that are meaningful. Share them with someone today.
- Case in point – “Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law.” (Ps. 119:109). In this world, in this life, to our human selves – faith in God is dangerous and hard. But it is always worth the cost. This life is a cheap imitation of what will be and I am wise to let it go.
- “…you established the earth, and it endures. Your laws endure to this day, for all things serve you.” (Ps. 119:90b-91). Note to self – whatever serves God endures.
- “Accept, LORD, the willing praise of my mouth” (Ps. 119:108a). Is my praise of God ever forced or empty? Or does it flow freely and willingly from my lips? I pray it is the latter. How can I have any understanding of God at all and it not be?