A Resourceful Wife
Read: 1 Samuel 19:4-18 Michal, David’s wife, told him, “If you do not escape with your life tonight, tomorrow you will be killed.” (v. 11) The ancient Chinese general Sun Tzu is credited with saying, “Keep your friends close; keep your enemies closer.” Unfortunately for David, both his friends and his enemy were from the same […]
What is Martyrs’ Day in Uganda?
In the country of Uganda, June 3 is celebrated as Martyrs’ Day. You may not have heard of this day, but it will help you pray for the church in Uganda, and for the persecuted church around the world. What is Martyrs’ Day in Uganda? At Namugongo, just outside of Kampala, stands a memorial to […]
A Secret Enemy
Read: 1 Samuel 18:22-30 Saul was even more afraid of David. So Saul was David’s enemy continually. (v. 29) To pretend to be someone’s friend even as you plan to betray them seems like the worst form of deception and treachery. Jesus knew this kind of betrayal himself. Judas Iscariot—his friend and disciple—kissed Jesus while revealing […]
June 2024 Prayer Guide
BHUTAN — A young mother from an indigenous tribe began sending one of her children to Words of Hope’s after school tutoring center in the area. She was delighted with the progress her child made academically and behaviorally as a result of attending the center. Staff at the center had the opportunity to share the […]
A Jealous King
Read: 1 Samuel 18:12-21 Saul was afraid of David because the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul. (v. 12) In the classic children’s tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, we see an evil queen plotting against her stepdaughter—an innocent girl who has never harmed her in any way. The reason for the […]
As Examples for Us
Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction. (v. 11) The Bible is one book, but it is made up of many books, with many different genres of writing. These books include the language and literature of the law, poetry, prophecy, the letters, […]
Contentment
Read: Philippians 4:5-13 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. (v. 11) In the world of the Greek Stoic philosopher, the world Paul traveled in, the term “content” was used to describe independence, self-sufficiency, and the ability to go it alone. The […]
Anxiety or Peace?
Read: Philippians 4:5-13 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything. . . . And the peace of God . . . will guard your hearts. (vv. 5-7) Reasonableness. What a great word. Are you known to others as a reasonable person? The word describes a “gentle agreeableness.” The opposite […]
Standing Firm
Read: Philippians 3:17-4:2 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. (4:1) Standing firm. What is that about? It’s a command. This is not presented as optional territory or with a “take it or leave it” mentality. It is presented not for […]