Notes from my Bible Study for January 21, 2010

Passages Read: Psalm 20, Genesis 20, 1 Chronicles 23‐24, Luke 12:49‐13:9

Psalm 20 - 7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God

One of the first retreats that I ever went on as a youth pastor was a national youth conference in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The man who had been hired to lead worship for the week was a quirky guy who loved to turn obscure Bible verses into songs. He then added his own sound effects and noises to the music he created.

Psalm 20:7 was one of the verses that he turned into song. And you know what? I'll never forget the song. I can't tell you how many hundreds of times the words to Psalm 20:7 have been replayed in my mind because of quirky dude's music. And, the words have been such a comfort.

I need to trust in God to provide for my needs. So, do you. The Lord is the source of every blessing in our life. When we are blessed, praise the Lord. When we go through trials, turn to the Lord. He is the ultimate source of strength.

Genesis 20 - Abraham sure was a slow learner. Once again he calls Sarah his sister, leading another king to take her into his household as a wife. God again intervenes and saves both Sarah's dignity and preserves his vow with Abraham. I get mad at Abraham when I read this passage, and I get reminded of how easy it is for any of us to stumble, if we are trusting in ourselves instead of God.

1 Chronicles 23-24 - It's interesting to see the detail that David went into to assure that his son, Solomon, would start strong as king. David was a man of preparation. The inclusion of so many names brings credibility to the history of these chapters.

Luke 12:49-13:9 - There have been many books published about the hard sayings of Jesus. These are sayings that are tough for us to swallow. We love to hear about the compassion and grace of Christ, but few of us get as excited about the wrath of God.

Jesus speaks hard truth in Luke 12:49-13:9. He talks about the fact that if we do not repent and turn to Him, we will face eternal punnisment. There are consequences to sin, and Jesus has no problem letting His hearers be aware of the fact they need a Savior.

How do these passages make you feel as you read them? Do they broaden your understanding of the historical Jesus?