In his excellent book Unlocking the Scriptures, Hans Finszel explains that there are three essential questions we should be asking each time we open the Word of God and study it for ourselves. Finzel’s questions are built around three key words: observation, interpretation, and application. His three questions are: What do I see? What does it mean?  How should I … Read More
The book of Esther in the Bible is fascinating reading. Although the story took place thousands of years ago, and in a geographical setting far from here, its intrigue and espionage could have been ripped from yesterdayâs headlines. To understand the story one simply needs to know a few characters. Ahasuerus is the Persian King, Esther is his queen, and … Read More
The calling of Moses in Exodus 3 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. Because the conversation between God and Moses is so lengthy it gives us a look into the Lord’s heart, and itâs easy for us to see our own insecurities in the life of Moses. As you read this chapter remember that Moses, like each … Read More
As you continue reading in the book of Genesis you leave the four events (creation, fall, flood, and nations) of the first 11 chapters behind. The remainder of Genesis comprises the stories of four people (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph). We call them the Patriarchs. The word patriarch means father. We attach this word to the second part of Genesis (chapters 12-50) … Read More
Perhaps you’ve heard it said, “I can’t see the forest for the trees.” Simply put it means that it is easy to get lost in the details of a project and not see the big picture. When it comes to reading a book, that goes back in history some 3,500 years, it is beneficial to keep the big picture in … Read More
Imagine that you sensed your physical health was failing. You lacked the stamina that you once had. Your energy level was way down, and you found yourself susceptible to nearly every sickness that crossed your path. Concerned, you visited your family doctor, and he began his exam with some questions. âAre you sleeping well?â âYes,â you reply, âIâm sleeping nearly … Read More
When having an effective quiet time, itâs important to have the right heart, time, place and plan. If your time with the Lord is lacking, consider which of these four elements could stand a little improvement. Several years ago now I came upon an excellent article by pastor Zach Schlegel on the importance of all four elements. He granted me permission … Read More
As you prepare for the new year I’ve included several Bible reading plans to encourage your time in the Word. They are in PDF format so that you can print them and tuck them in the flyleaf of your Bible for a reminder as you develop the habit of reading the Bible daily. The six-day format will take you through the Bible cover … Read More
