bible study Archives - Artesian Ministries

10 Powerful Prayers of Peace After Death of Loved One

Posted on June 18, 2024June 18, 2024 by Donna Snow

When I lost my dad to cancer it felt like the world came to a stop. For a long time, sadness tinged every day. Life would never be the same again without my beloved dad in it. I needed Jesus more than ever during that time of sorrow and pain. How do you find peace after death of a loved one?

If you can relate to those feelings, you have come to the right place. Heavy hearts are hard to carry during such a difficult time. Lives change when loved ones are welcomed to everlasting life in the arms of the Lord. Thankfully, our dear Lord gives us His tender love while we walk through the valley of the shadow of death.

The ten following prayers and Bible passages are paired with action items. Action (especially doing good deeds for others) is important because sitting in a time of grief too long after the funeral service makes it harder to move forward.

My prayer is that offering a short prayer with these verses and action items helps you experience God’s mercy and fullness of peace in your time of loss.

Prayers After the Death of a Loved One
Prayers for Loved Ones of a Departed Soul
Comforting Bible Verses About Death
Scripture When Someone Dies
Prayers of Peace After Loss

Prayers After the Death of a Loved One

It flat-out hurts when we lose a loved one. Prayer makes all the difference in healing. When Dad died, words failed me. But the Holy Spirit intercedes for us when we can only groan.

1. God Hears Our Groaning

Bible Verse: “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God” (Romans 8:26-27, ESV).

Those first days after we lose a loved one are the hardest. We’re still trying to come to our own understanding of life without them by our side. Words often fail us, but God’s boundless love never fails.

Prayer: Christ Jesus, my heart is broken. I think of her a hundred times each day. This feels like the darkest valley. I’m so thankful that she is experiencing eternal joy in Your loving care. Thank you for the promise of eternal life so that this goodbye is only temporary. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Keeping a journal is a bonus. It helps us express our grief and remember the wonderful human being that our loved one was. Start by writing your favorite memories that you have with your lost loved one. Don’t be surprised if you are smiling as you write.

2. Promise of Almighty God

Bible Verse: “For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” (Romans 14:8, ESV).

The first and most important thing to know is that God’s promises never fail. Those who live for the Lord will see our Redeemer face to face upon death.

Prayer: Lord God, my heart is so sad at the loss of my loved one. I miss her presence and smile. Merciful God, thank you for the good life you gave her. Thank you for the blessing of her influence in my life. With her eternal rest, grant me the peace of mind knowing she is in a better place. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Action Item: Plants help in times of sorrow because they help keep our loved one’s memory alive. My dad loved hyacinths, so a dear friend gifted me with hyacinth bulbs at his funeral. I planted them in my garden and am reminded of Dad every time they bloom each spring. What plant or flower did your loved one like most? Plant one in a pot or your garden to keep their memory alive.

Prayers for Loved Ones of a Departed Soul

Our loved one is experiencing the peace of God firsthand. But we need prayers as we miss their presence. Here are some prayers to let God’s peace reign in your heart during this tender time.

3. Comfort for the Broken Hearted

Bible Verse: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18, ESV).

This is one of the most comforting Bible verses when it comes to grief. The unexpected death of a loved one is accompanied by hard times of sorrow. But you do not grieve alone! The Son of the living God sits with you. May Christ give you His strength and comfort.

Prayer: Dear God, I need your comfort more than ever. Sorrow weighs heavy on my heart. You have faithfully answered prayer throughout my life. Hear my prayer and let your perpetual light shine in this darkness. Surround me with Your comfort and eternal peace. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Action Item: During times of grief, it helps to spend time with those who loved the one you lost. Call a family member or friend you know who is also grieving this loss and grab a cup of coffee with them. Talk about your lost loved one with that person. It provides more comfort and healing than you can imagine.

4. God is Your Strength

Bible Verse: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26, ESV).

I felt as if my strength had dried up after Dad died. Even the most simple everyday tasks seemed overwhelming. I discovered that our gracious God provides strength when ours is gone.

Prayer: O Lord, even though You have given new life in Your heavenly kingdom to my loved one, I feel stuck in the old order of things. I miss the rhythm of my routine with them. Lord, grant me an extra measure of Your strength to endure these days of sorrow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Grief can often leave us feeling stuck. Stuck in sorrow or unable to move forward without our loved one. Even though I did not feel like doing anything, I set a goal to accomplish one thing each day. It could be as simple as doing a load of laundry or going for a walk. It helps dislodge the feeling that you’re stuck. Make a list and try to check one thing off each day.

Comforting Bible Verses About Death

Christian prayers are a source of comfort as we talk with Jesus about our feelings of loss. Along with the power of prayer, God also provides comfort through His Word. The Bible speaks comfort and peace into our lives to shine the light of God into every situation.

5. Hope of Eternity

Bible Verse: “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, ESV).

The things God has promised us number in the thousands. Many of them contain the hope of eternity as we leave former things behind on earth. As you think of the loved one you lost, they are with Jesus right now if they believed Him to be their Lord and Savior.

By the mercy of God, they have been restored, made whole, and feel no pain. Even though you miss that person here, they are inhabiting the new heaven and the new earth as we speak.

Prayer: Dear Father, the harvest of eternal life is far greater than I can comprehend. We are Your sheep and You are our true Shepherd. Thank you for welcoming my loved one home. Comfort my heart now until I can see them with You in heaven one day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Get a blank notebook. Take time to search through Scripture to write down every instance where God promises the hope of eternity with Him. Jesus has gone to prepare a place for all who love Him. You will be amazed by how He completely cares for you.

6. God Walks With You

Bible Verse: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4, ESV).

Grief over the loss of a loved one feels like walking in death. We miss them and smiles are few and far between. God knows this. The Father of our Lord Jesus Christ walks with you through the dust of the earth. He provides your daily bread and everything you need to get through this time of grieving.

Prayer: Almighty Father, I miss my loved one so much. I long to hear her voice and see her face. Thank you for walking with me in this time of grief. Remind me each day that I do not grieve without hope. The purpose of Your love is spending eternity with You and reuniting with my loved ones who have gone before me. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: It is normal to feel overwhelmed in times of grief. Even the simplest tasks may seem like Mount Everest. Give yourself a LOT of grace right now. Let your heart grieve. Take time to look through pictures of your loved one. Make a scrapbook of your favorites. Remember the good times and thank God for your time with them.

Scripture When Someone Dies

When it comes to losing a loved one, the Word of God is with you every moment of every day. The hope and comfort that God provides through it helps navigate those long nights and hard moments when loss seems overwhelming.

7. God Will Wipe Away Your Tears

Bible verse: “He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken” (Isaiah 25:8, ESV).

Even in the midst of grief, lift high the name of God because He sent His Son to swallow up death forever. God is eternal, and all who believe in Him will reign with Him into eternity — including your loved one. In the meantime, He will wipe away your tears as you look forward to your heavenly reunion.

Prayer: Eternal God, only You have opened the gates of life. Even though I am so very sad as I mourn the loss of my loved one, I know that she is with you safe and sound. Thank you for the peace that brings in the midst of my sorrow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: When we mourn, helping others can ease our pain by making the world a better place. If your loved one supported or volunteered at a favorite charity, consider donating time or treasure to that organization or helping them in some way. Your generosity may help someone else’s tears be wiped away.

8. God of All Comfort

Bible Verse: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4, ESV).

This verse does not mince words. When we mourn, God will send comfort. The ultimate comfort comes from Him because the Son of God came to give His life so that we might live with Him eternally. That is true for all who believe Jesus is Savior. God is our comfort forever.

Prayer: King of all kings, I need your comfort. Sorrow tears at my heart. You promise to heal the brokenhearted, so I ask for your healing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Sorrow weighs you down, so you need something to lift you up. Take some time today to do something that brings you joy. It could be going for a bike ride in your favorite park, grabbing an ice cream cone, watch ducks swimming, read a book, or anything else.

Suggested Bible Study: The God of All Comfort

Prayers of Peace After Loss

I never expected to be in the room when my Dad crossed from this life into eternity. He was at the end of his long cancer journey and had been in the hospital for eight days. The doctors said that he would not leave alive. Peace may feel foreign.

9. Give Me Light Again

Bible Verse: “Because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace” (Luke 1:78-79, ESV).

Thankfully, peace is part of the fruit of the Spirit that God has already given us. Some of the most beautiful prayers request God’s peace when our soul is sorrowful. His tender mercies never fail. His peace transcends even the hardest circumstances.

Prayer: Lord, a peace prayer is on my heart today. I feel my loved one’s loss especially today and miss them greatly. I wish I could hug them. But since I can’t, grant me an extra measure of Your peace to soothe my soul. Remind me that You are with me and never forsake me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Sometimes embracing peace looks like allowing yourself time alone with the Lord. Take a walk through nature or somewhere away from traffic and the noise of daily hustle and bustle. Peace may look like coffee with a trusted friend. Seek Him whatever you do and He will minister to your soul.

10. Even Jesus Grieved

Bible Verse: “When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. And he said, ‘Where have you laid him?’ They said to him, ‘Lord, come and see.’Jesus wept” (John 11:33-35, ESV).

When Jesus’ dear friend Lazarus died, Jesus grieved. He grieved His own loss and mourned with those who grieved with Him. Grief reveals how much God has enabled us to love someone else. Grief is a process that we move through – not a place to remain indefinitely.

Prayer: God, your Son grieved many things while walking among us on Earth. Lord, show me how to process grief and provide wise, loving people who can guide me through. I trust You and Your perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Item: Grab your Bible or your favorite Bible app and search for all instances of the word “peace.” When we mourn loss in this life, it helps to be reminded that we have a peace that passes all understanding from the Lord. His peace and the hope of eternity with Him get us through even our darkest days.

Bottom Line

I pray that the love of God gives your soul rest as you remember family members and dear friends in the loving arms of our heavenly Father.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was difficult. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, visit her here.

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Biblical Meaning of INRI on the Cross of Jesus Christ

Posted on June 3, 2024June 3, 2024 by Donna Snow

All four Gospel accounts record an inscription placed on the cross above the head of Jesus Christ on Good Friday. What is the meaning of INRI? The Gospel of John tells us:

“Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek. So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but rather, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.’” Pilate answered, “What I have written I have written” (John 19:19-22).

Pontius Pilate ordered “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” be inscribed above Jesus’ head as He hung on the cross. But what is the meaning of INRI?

What Does INRI Mean?
Who Was Pontius Pilate?
Why Were Jewish Leaders Upset by the Title?
Did Jesus Ever Call Himself King?

What Does INRI Mean?

Latin and Greek were the dominant languages of the Roman Empire. Consequently, Latin was used by the Roman government for administrative purposes wherever they ruled.

The letters “INRI” come from the first letter of each word in Latin: “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum.” The English translation and meaning of INRI is “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews.” Naturally, the abbreviation INRI was a shorter inscription for the title of the cross.

Scripture is silent as to Pilate’s reasoning for choosing that phrase. Perhaps Pilate was fed up with the Jewish priests. They complicated Pilate’s duties with their elaborate religious rituals and laws. In this instance alone, Scripture eludes to the difficult relationship between Pilate and the Jewish religious leaders:

They made Pilate come out to them in the courtyard because entering his house would defile them.
They riled up the crowd to coerce Pilate to free Barabbas and execute Jesus after he had acquitted Him.
Then they complained about the sign Pilate put at the top of Jesus’ cross.

Frustration seems to ooze from Pilate’s actions. That being said, the Jews never asked to be governed by the Romans in the first place.

Who Was Pontius Pilate?

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, Pilate was a Roman governor assigned in Judea in 26–36 AD. He served under the emperor Tiberius Caesar Augustus. Pontius Pilate presided at the final trial of Jesus and gave the order for the crucifixion of Jesus.

Pilate incurred the enmity of Jews by insulting their religious sensibilities. Pilate hung worship images of the emperor throughout Jerusalem and minted coins bearing Roman religious symbols. So he ordered the famous sign (knowing the meaning of INRI) to be placed over Jesus’ head. Talk about the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back.

Pilate was appointed prefect of Judaea through the intervention of Sejanus, a favorite of Tiberius. After Sejanus’s fall in 31 AD, Pilate was exposed to sharper criticism from certain Jews, who may have capitalized on his vulnerability to obtain a legal death sentence for Jesus.

Why Were Jewish Leaders Upset by the Title?

The New Testament tells us that Pilate instructed that the word “INRI” be inscribed on a sign above the Lord Jesus. It was customary during the time of Jesus that the criminal’s name and an inscription of the charge be placed at the top of the cross.

So Pilate ordered that Roman soldiers inscribe “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” above Jesus’ head in Hebrew (likely Aramaic), Greek, and Latin. Three languages so that Pilate got his point across.

The meaning of INRI was highly offensive to the Jewish leaders. They believed calling Jesus “King of the Jews” defiled the sacred name YHWH (the holiest name of the Lord God) by giving it to a mere mortal.

But Roman rule reigned, so that sign was placed above the crown of thorns over Jesus’ head. Little did Pilate know at the time that he got the name of the Sufferer exactly right.

Did Jesus Ever Call Himself King?

Jesus never outright called Himself a king. The closest He came to it appears in John’s Gospel:

“Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” ³⁷Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice” (John 18:36-37).

That being said, Jesus did call Himself: Christ, Lord, Master, Son of God, Son of man, Son of David, Son of Joseph, the Word (logos), Lamb of God, Shepherd, and so many more. And He is all of them!

Bottom Line

Regardless of what Pilate put on Jesus’ cross, Jesus is our Lord and Savior. He came to seek and save the lost. And that is ALL of us.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Before time began, when the heavens and earth were created, in the Garden of Eden, in the burning bush, throughout history, and into eternity, Jesus is our King of kings, Lord of lords, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father, Mighty God, and Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6).

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About the Author

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100 Promises of God in the Bible to Strengthen Faith

Posted on May 30, 2024May 30, 2024 by Donna Snow

God’s promises to His people appear throughout God’s Word from Genesis to Revelation. In these explicit declarations, God promises to you and me salvation. He promises hope, perfect peace, love, deliverance, mercy, protection, and so much more.

Over the past several weeks, I have been drawn to research God’s promises of the Bible. It has been an extraordinary journey. I culled out from literally thousands of these precious promises to only 100. But there are literally thousands.

The good news is that the more Bible study you do, the more you see His divine nature. His love and compassion are a constant presence throughout the Word of God. The promises made by our heavenly Father never fail. His covenant of love and every good thing flows into His people’s lives. I pray that you are encouraged today!

Promises About God

Malachi 3:6 – “I am the Lord, and I do not change.”

1 John 5:14 – “We have courage in God’s presence because we are sure that He hears us if we ask Him for anything that is according to His will.”

Isaiah 49:16 – “I have written your name on the palms of My hands.”

Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”

God’s Mercy

Luke 1:50 – “And His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation.”

Luke 1:78-79 – “Because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on highto give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Romans 9:15-16 – “For He says to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy. I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.’So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.”

Psalm 145:9 – “The Lord is good to all, and His mercy is over all that He has made.”

Romans 11:32 – “For God has consigned all to disobedience, that He may have mercy on all.”

James 2:13 – “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”

Psalm 103:8 – “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in compassion and lovingkindness.”

Psalm 23:6 – “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Isaiah 30:18 – “Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you. Therefore He exalts Himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him.”

Psalm 116:5 – “Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful.”

Love of God

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (This is God’s greatest promise!)

1 Corinthians 13:7-8 – “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.Love never ends.”

1 John 4:16 – “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in Him.”

1 John 4:7-9 – “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God. Whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him.”

Romans 8:35-39 – “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

John 15:9-10 – “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love.”

Faithful God

2 Thessalonians 3:3 – “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.”

Romans 3:3-4 – “What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God?By no means! Let God be true though everyone was a liar.”

Exodus 34:6-7 – “The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.”

1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability. But with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

1 Corinthians 1:9 – “God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”

2 Timothy 2:13 – “If we are faithless, He remains faithful—for He cannot deny himself.”

Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”

1 Peter 4:19 – “Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.”

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 – “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely. May your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.”

God’s Compassion

Micah 7:18-19 – “Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of His inheritance? God does not retain his anger forever, because He delights in steadfast love. He will again have compassion on us. He will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.”

Deuteronomy 32:26 – “For the Lord will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants, when he sees that their power is gone and there is none remaining, bond or free.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Psalm 147:13 – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Psalm 78:38 – “Yet He, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them. He restrained his anger often and did not stir up all His wrath.”

Matthew 6:34 – “When Jesus went ashore He saw a great crowd, and He had compassion on them. They were like sheep without a shepherd.”

God’s Grace

Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

2 Corinthians 4:15 – “All of this is for your benefit. And as God’s grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving. God will receive more and more glory.”

John 1:16 – “For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.”

Acts 15:11 – “But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.”

Romans 3:23-24 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”

Lamentations 3:22-24 – “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end;they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him.”

Eternal Life

John 17:3 – “And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”

Matthew 19:29 – “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my Name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life.”

John 3:36 – “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”

John 4:14 – “Whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Jeremiah 31:3 – “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.”

John 5:24 – “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my Word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.”

John 6:27 – “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.”

Christ Jesus

2 Corinthians 1:20 – “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.”

Hebrews 13:8 – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Romans 5:8 – “God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

2 Timothy 2:11-13 – “The saying is trustworthy, for if we have died with Him, we will also live with Him. If we endure, we will also reign with Him; if we deny Him, He also will deny us;if we are faithless, He remains faithful.”

Psalm 36:5 – “Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds.”

John 1:17 – “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”

John 20:31 – “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.”

Promise of Salvation

Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?”

Ephesians 2:4-5 – “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.”

Acts 4:11-12 – “This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other Name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

Peace of God

Colossians 3:15 – “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.”

Isaiah 54:10 – “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but My steadfast love shall not depart from you. My covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

Philippians 4:7 – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

1 Chronicles 22:18 – “Is not the Lord your God with you? And has He not given you peace on every side?”

Romans 16:20 – “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”

John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Matthew 25:21 – “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.'”

A New Heart

Ezekiel 36:26 – “And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”

Mark 12:30 – “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”

John 7:38 – “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”

Acts 15:8-9 – “And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as He did to us. He made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith.”

Romans 10:10 – “For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”

2 Corinthians 4:6 – “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

Forgiveness of Sins

1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

Psalm 103:2-4 – “Bless the Lord…who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”

Bible Study: Forgiveness: Received From God; Extended to Others

God’s Good Gifts

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”

Psalm 31:19 – “How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You.”

Psalm 46:1-2 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the Earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything. In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

Psalm 28:7 – “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him.”

Acts 20:32 – “And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.”

Genesis 1:28-30 – “And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens. And to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.’ And it was so.”

Power of the Holy Spirit

Romans 8:11 – “And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you. He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you.”

Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”

Romans 14:17 – “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

2 Peter 1:3 – “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.”

Chosen by God

1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

Deuteronomy 7:6 – “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for His treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.”

1 Peter 2:4 – “As you come to Him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious.”

Deuteronomy 31:8 – “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

1 Thessalonians 1:4 – “For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you.”

Psalm 37:4 – “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Colossians 3:3 – “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”

Bible Study: “Chosen: A Study of Esther”

Kingdom of God

Psalm 45:6 – “Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.”

Hebrews 12:28-29 – “Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.”

Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Psalm 36:5-7 – “Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds.Your righteousness is like the mountains of God. Your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O Lord.How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.”

Bottom Line

Throughout the Old Testament and New Testament, we see the scope of God and His sovereignty over our daily lives. The Word of the Lord reminds you that every aspect of your life is seen by God. God’s love over you is pure, true, and right.

Our living God watches over us in difficult times. His great promises, sealed with Jesus’ blood of the covenant, never fail. Praise be to God!

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What Does the Bible Teach About Having a Pure Heart?

Posted on May 23, 2024May 23, 2024 by Donna Snow

During his epic Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). In other words, Jesus is concerned with our hearts, not our outward appearance.

A pure heart is a heart that has nothing to do with falsehood. It desires to be with God, honor His Word, and walk in His ways. It’s not about religion, it’s about a relationship with Him. Let’s walk through some key passages in God’s Word to gain insight.

What Does it Mean to be Pure in Heart?
Heart Identity
Guard Your Heart
Why Does a Clean Heart Matter?
Wise Prayers for Our Hearts

What Does it Mean to be Pure in Heart?

Jesus came into this world to change and cleanse the hearts of sinners like you and me. He did not come to ensure that we conform to society’s manners or wear an outward mask of righteousness.

Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and the plate, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. You blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and the plate, that the outside also may be clean” (Matthew 23:25-26).

A pure heart focuses on Jesus. With full assurance of faith, one of the wisest prayers you can ever utter is: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Only God can do the good work to give you purity of heart and a sincere faith.

Heart Identity

The human heart is who you are in those secret thoughts and feelings that no one knows about but God. He sees the invisible roots of your true heart. And they matter as much to God as the fruit they produce.

“For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). For those who diligently seek the Lord, that verse is comforting. Those who don’t find it terrifying.

Our heart condition matters. “But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander” (Matthew 15:18-19).

The condition of our heart is key: “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad. You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:33-34).

Our whole heart matters to Christ Jesus. It can be the source of defilement of the body or a holy place of pure words and a new spirit. He desires that we put away youthful lusts and youthful passions to live a new life in Him. He did not come here to simply break our bad habits. Jesus Christ came to cleanse and purify our hearts.

Heart of Flesh

Scripture uses the word “heart” in the context of both emotions and intellect. In other words, our heart houses our innermost being and holder of our deepest desires. God did not give us a heart of stone, but a moldable one. Who we allow to mold our hearts is critical.

Regarding the heart’s emotions, Jesus said: “Let not your hearts be troubled” (John 14:1). Walking in this world flat out hurts us sometimes – whether because of our sinful desires or someone else’s. But when we rely on Him, we are freed from constant fret and worry.

The will of God is for us to walk by faith in peace, trusting Him with the new heart He provides. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can surrender our will to God. Daniel 1:8 says, “But Daniel was determined not to defile himself…”. We can live with such determination as well!

If you’re like me, your mind constantly races like a hamster wheel. One of the most powerful Bible verses about surrender says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2). Such wonderful comfort.

Guard Your Heart

As the storehouse for our deepest desires, a heart not surrendered to Jesus can lead to a world of hurt. The Book of Proverbs cautions: “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (Proverbs 4:23).

Holy hearts need the words of the Lord to plunge deep and take root. The Old Testament reminds us that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). Guarding our hearts is an essential part of that godly wisdom.

“The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5). The works of the flesh (murder, adultery, theft, slander, etc.) derail the way of a man into sin. We act shocked at the sins of others, but we are not blameless widows of sin. Thankfully, our Heavenly Father relentlessly extends His forgiveness and steadfast love. The children of God experience the peace of God as we guard our hearts with His strength.

Guarding your heart ensures that you keep your own eyes on your own husband to remain faithful and maintain sexual purity in your marriage bed. King David failed to guard his heart and maintain a steadfast spirit for the Living God when he violated the commandment of the Lord and slept with Bathsheba. Even though David knew better (he was not a young man), he ignored the precepts of the Lord.

Why Does a Clean Heart Matter?

We live in an era where we are very conscious about the purity of our drinking water. But a pure heart is more important than pure water. Dirty water can cause defilement of body with diseases and even death. But a dirty heart can derail a whole life and steal the joy of your salvation.

What awaits those with a clean heart? The King James Version of the Bible says: “He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation” (Psalm 24:4-5).

Dear friends, our God is worthy of praise! He could have left us wallowing in sin without hope. Yet from Him flows the springs of life–His wellspring of living water. Only His clean water given through the blood of Christ purifies our hearts.

A clean heart removes unnecessary barriers for us to call on God: “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22). God desires a relationship with us. So in His divine jealousy, He faithfully removes barriers so that we bear good fruits and good things for the kingdom of God.

Wise Prayers For Our Hearts

Diligent prayer is the key to keeping our hearts pure before the Lord. And we can use Scripture to pray those words back to the Lord. For instance, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14, English Standard Version).

By faith, you can pray with determination: “My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding (Psalm 49:3).

Another wise prayer: “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart (Psalm 51:3-6).

Prayer is key and God is always available 24/7/365.

Bottom Line

God loves you more than you can possibly fathom. God cleanses your heart as you diligently seek Him and pray in Jesus’ name. And as you study His Word and increase your own understanding of God’s steadfast love and forgiveness, He faithfully cleanses your heart and walks beside you. Joy!

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How Tall Were Adam and Eve? (Giants in the Bible)

Posted on May 2, 2024April 27, 2024 by Donna Snow

Adam was the first man that God created. He lived in the Garden of Eden with Eve, who was the first woman God created. But how tall were Adam and Eve?

The Bible does not specify their exact height, but we can put our sleuthing skills to work and dig deeper. We know from biblical accounts that giants lived in certain ancient civilizations. Let’s dive in.

What is Adam’s Height?
What was the Tallest Man in the Bible?
Biblical Accounts of Giants

What is Adam’s Height?

The average height of humans today around the globe is 5.8′ for men and 5.2′ for women. Naturally, the average human today varies by height depending on their country, nutritional habits, and more. Since no fossil record exists from the time of creation, what about the first humans God created?

First of all, the book of Genesis tells us that all mankind is made in the image of God: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27). However, since God is spirit (John 4:24), how did He calculate how tall Adam would be?

After all, Adam was never a baby. God created Adam as a fully developed man. Adam’s genes, Adam’s age, and Adam’s stature were all brand-new creations. Adam was the prototype for the entire human race and all future sons of God.

Although the exact height of Adam is not lined out in Scripture, we can consider other biblical factors.

1. Age in the Old Testament

Specific details about age in the Bible are readily available. In ancient times, the life span of human beings was counted by centuries rather than decades.

For instance, Adam lived to be over 900 years old: “Thus all the days that Adam lived were 930 years, and he died” (Genesis 5:5). Today, we get taller as we age and shrink as we get older. Physical appearance and stature change over time. Was the same true for Adam? We simply don’t know.

Adam had his first son at the age of 130 (Genesis 5:3)! We do not know how many children Adam and Eve had because Scripture only says: “The days of Adam after he fathered Seth were 800 years; and he had other sons and daughters” (Genesis 5:4).

2. God Created Eve

The story of Adam is incomplete without mention of his wife Eve. Although marriage likely did not affect Adam’s height, it certainly enhanced his life.

So one day a woman was created in God’s image: “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him” (Genesis 2:18).

God put Adam into a deep sleep and took one of Adam’s ribs to create Eve: “And the rib that the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man” (Genesis 2:22).

And like Adam, Eve’s height and exact measurements are not mentioned in Scripture. Interestingly, we do not know how long Eve lived.

In today’s world, women usually outlive men, but Scripture is silent regarding Eve’s age or year of death. After eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve spent the rest of their days banished from the Garden of Eden.

What was the Tallest Man in the Bible?

The tallest man named in the Bible is Goliath. He is the tallest simply because the Bible gives specific information regarding his height: “And there came out from the camp of the Philistines a champion named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span” (1 Samuel 17:4).

Goliath’s height was a staggering nine feet, nine inches tall. Wow! Various interpretations put him at around nine feet, four inches tall. However, all religious texts place Goliath at over nine feet tall.

Significantly, Goliath was from Gath. Scripture confirms the existence of giants and that they descended from Gath:

“These were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants” (1 Chronicles 20:8).
“These four were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants” (2 Samuel 21:22).
“After this there was again war with the Philistines at Gob. Then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck down Saph, who was one of the descendants of the giants” (2 Samuel 21:18).

The tallest person who ever lived in modern times was Robert Wadlow. He was a staggering 8 ft. 11.1 in. tall. He died in 1940 at the age of 22 due to a foot infection. His feet were 18.5 in. long and he wore size 37 shoes. His great height necessitated custom clothes and shoes since nothing on the store racks would fit him.

Biblical Accounts of Giants

The presence of giants appears in Scripture. Their physical characteristics differed from mentions of the mighty men like those who served King David.

1. The Nephilim

The Nephilim were mysterious beings or people in the Hebrew Bible described as large and strong. The Hebrew word Nephilim means “giants” and were known to be of great size.

Scripture says: “The Nephilim were on the earth in those days and also later. That was when the sons of God had physical relations with the daughters of men. These women gave birth to children, who became famous. They were the mighty warriors of long ago” (Genesis 6:4).

Joshua and Caleb encountered these giants of Nephilim among the people of Canaan in Moses’ time when Moses sent them as spies: “And there we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak, who come from the Nephilim), and we seemed to ourselves like grasshoppers, and so we seemed to them” (Numbers 13:33).

2. Biblical Giants in Gath

There is historical record and biblical evidence of giants descending from Gath. Gath was one of the five chief cities of the Philistines (Joshua 13:3; 1 Samuel 6:17; Amos 6:2; Micah 1:10).

The Anakim was a race of giants who inhabited Gath (Joshua 11:22). As mentioned above, Goliath came from Gath. Giants struck fear in the hearts of men:

“Our brothers have made our hearts melt, saying, ‘The people are greater and taller than we. The cities are great and fortified up to heaven. And besides, we have seen the sons of the Anakim there'” (Deuteronomy 1:28).
“The Emim formerly lived there, a people great and many, and tall as the Anakim” (Deuteronomy 2:10).

The term “giant” was a symbolism of height, not spiritual discernment. These were the Old Testament bullies. Remember how Goliath taunted the Israelites before David took him down? These giants leveraged their size to intimidate and conquer. These giants of old are not mentioned in any of the New Testaments.

Bottom Line

Neither the Bible nor ancient texts tell us how tall Adam was. There have also been no ancient skeletal remains discovered to date of giants. The tallest human skeleton ever known or found was Robert Wadlow, the Guinness record-holder mentioned above.

However, consider this: Adam and Eve had the entire world to themselves for a while. Conserving space was not even a concept. Could God have created them really tall? Only He knows.

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Free Bible in One Year Reading Plans – Printable

Posted on April 28, 2024April 26, 2024 by Donna Snow

If you are serious about spending more time reading the entire Bible in one year you have come to the right place. Intentional, daily readings of God’s Word reveal the big picture of God’s story.

These free printable Bible reading plans take you through the whole Bible in a year. Print the one(s) you like and get started reading Scripture on a regular basis.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Whether you are making a new year’s resolution or simply committing to read the Bible on a daily basis, this plan takes the guesswork out of it.

Each day’s reading takes you straight through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Each day’s assigned reading methodically works through the entire book in one year.

I have used this plan on and off for years. Some years I switch things up and use one of the other plans. The whole point is to spend daily time in God’s Word.

Simply work through this bible reading schedule and God will grant you a better understanding of Him and His plan for your life. Download HERE.

One Year in the Psalms

Perhaps reading through all the books of the Bible feels intimidating. I certainly understand! Reading through the Psalms provides many different topics that paint an incredible canvas of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness.

This Bible reading plan walks you through the book of Psalms in one year. Some days your reading is one powerful verse; others it’s a short psalm. The Psalms hold some of the most beautiful words that we can use to praise the Lord.

The Psalms touch on every human emotion imaginable. Over half of the Psalms were written by David. Extraordinary! Also, about one-third of the Psalms are laments that contain sorrow, questioning God, and much more.

This slower reading pace allows breathing space for God’s Word to sink deep into your soul. You can start this Bible reading chart any time of the year and devour the psalms a little bit each day. Download HERE.

Historical Overview One-Year Bible Reading Plan

This Bible reading plan offers a basic outline of the Old Testament readings and New Testament readings, then fills in readings with more detailed books. You will read the entire Bible!

The Old Testament follows a historical overview, then moves to the prophetic literature, followed by the wisdom literature, and Psalms (some twice).

If you are drawn to history, then this plan is for you. It provides the Scriptures around certain events to better understand that particular time period or event.

The New Testament readings with Christ’s birth and then moves into Acts (Luke’s sequel). Then you move into Ephesians, and pastoral epistles, followed by the rest.

It may feel different to read through the Bible using this method. However, if you are already familiar with Scripture, this will shake things up! It’s just one of the different ways Scripture can be read. Download HERE.

Read the Bible at Your Own Pace

This one-year plan will guide you through the Wor d of God at your own pace. This a great way to go if you have a super busy schedule and cannot commit to reading every day of the week.

It’s also a great choice if you are in a season of life with extra time. You can read for as long and as much as you like any day of the month.

Some days may go faster than others, but the whole point is to stay in God’s Word regularly. His wonderful truths instruct, guide, and teach us. The Bible provides the encouragement we need to shine His light in a dark world.

During this journey through His Word, ask God each day to speak directly to you from Scripture. You will be blessed whether you read a whole book of the Bible in one sitting, an entire chapter, or just a few verses.

They key is to approach your time in the Word with expectation. His story is our story and He has many things to teach us. Download HERE.

Read the Bible in 90 Days

Many people have never read the Bible cover to cover. This 90-days of reading will help you attentively read through the entire Bible.

Remember that this is not a competition with yourself just to check the “read” boxes. You will see God move in fresh ways if you commit to listening as you read. Pray each time you read to hear what God wants to you hear from His Word.

This is not a bible study method. This is reading Scripture almost like a novel. You are reading to catch the overarching story of God’s story. Absorb what you can and trust God for the rest.

Setting a daily reading goal is important because each day’s reading takes an average of 45-60 minutes. I highly recommend actually reading the Bible rather than listening to an audio version since distractions easily happen.

You’re on an important mission! So it’s crucial to grab additional reading time whenever possible. While waiting to meet friends. Waiting for the oven to pre-heat. Waiting in your child’s school car pick-up line. Perhaps arrive at church early and read in the pew before worship begins. Every ten minutes helps! Download HERE.

90-Day Chronological Bible Reading Plan

This is similar to the historical Bible reading plan above. However, it differs from other daily Bible reading plans in two ways.

First, the daily readings are in chronological order according to when each book and part of Scripture was originally penned. For instance, one day’s reading in the Old Testament includes chapters from Psalms, 2 Samuel, and 1 Chronicles to put them in the proper timeline.

Second, this plan provides a unique overview of Old Testament history by following the dates each book was written. You will be flipping back and forth in New Testament passages, as well.

In some places, one chapter of the New Testament book of Acts is “interrupted” by various chapters from 1 Corinthians and 1 Thessalonians. For instance, your first New Testament reading day includes chapters from Matthew, Luke, Mark, and John!

This plan keeps the time periods in order, which provides a wonderful new perspective of real-life events as they were recorded. This is the best option for history lovers. Download HERE.

Consider Journaling

One of the practices that I’ve incorporated over the years as I read through the Scriptures is to take notes. That may seem odd, but it has provided a significant spiritual blessing.

Each morning as I read through the day’s assignment, I jot down something that I learned for the first time. Sometimes, the words speak directly to what I’m going through in my life at the time.

I keep those notes with me throughout the day. During quiet moments throughout the day, I pull out my note and re-read it. That practice has provided extra time to meditate on the Lord’s words throughout my day.

I’ve learned that the extra meditation time allows me to recall the details and lessons in Scripture more readily. It provides time to think through the context and overarching story of those passages.

Most importantly, God has used journaling to grow my faith exponentially. It has inspired me to write and publish Bible studies, daily devotions, and much more.

Bottom Line

No matter which plan you choose, each one (except the Psalms plan) will take you through the entire Bible. The plans make your Bible everyday blessings waiting to be discovered.

These plans are for new believers and veteran Christians. Make one your own plan and get started. Simply print 2-sided, fold it over, and tuck your handy checklist in your Bible. It can serve as a bookmark for where you need to read next.

Through hard times, good times, and every time in between, include a Bible reading plan in your Bible study tools kit. You will learn just how much God and Jesus Christ love you.

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Powerful Bible Verses to Start Your Day With God

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Donna Snow

Starting with powerful Bible verses is a great way to set up your best day. Whether or not you are a morning person, starting your day in the name of the Lord makes all the difference.

Your to-do list may be impressive today. Take a moment to pause and set your mind on the Lord and His love for you. Regardless of the time of day, God will lead your feet along the right paths.

Good Bible Verse for Morning

Good morning Bible verses start your day with our God of hope leading the way. Here are some powerful Bible verses to add to your morning routine.

Psalm 143:8 – “Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”

Psalm 90:14 – “Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Wisdom Verses to Start the Day

In this angry world, sometimes a well-instructed tongue can be a challenge. Thankfully, through the power of the Holy Spirit, our Sovereign Lord provides a better way to keep our minds on Him. The following Bible verses will help!

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Ephesians 5:15-17 – “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Proverbs 18:15 – “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.”

Psalm 90:12 – “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

Comfort Verses to Start the Day

God’s plan for our lives will take us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes a hard day can bring a spirit of fear. Thankfully, our God of all comfort knows such things and provides comfort.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Romans 8:26-28 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Related: My Bible study, “The God of All Comfort“

Encouragement Bible Verses

Each day has enough trouble of its own, doesn’t it? It’s a good thing that our Heavenly Father knows that we need Him and encouragement with the morning light.

Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.”

Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Psalm 91:11 – “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

John 16:33 – “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

52 powerful Tuesday morning blessings and Bible verses

Morning Verses to Start the Day

Hard times can cause anxiety, stress, and worry. The Word of God provides a fresh start each day to see the good work of God in your life.

Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Psalm 51:10 – “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

Ephesians 6:10-11, 13 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”

1 Thessalonians 5:8 – “But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.”

Scripture for Strength

Times of trouble can hinder our joy and leave us feeling vulnerable. Here are perfect verses to remind you of God’s faithfulness and strength.

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Chronicles 16:11 – “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.”

Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Psalm 28:7 – “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

Psalm 46:1-3 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.”

Inspirational Bible Verse for Today

Inspirational Scriptures provide daily encouragement first thing in the morning. New beginnings and new mornings provide a reminder of God and the very present help He is every day.

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

Colossians 1:10 – “So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Ephesians 5:8 – “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.”

Romans 6:4 – “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.”

The Lord’s Great Love Verses

God’s love is stubborn over us. The best way to start a new day is to remember the steadfast love of the Lord.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Proverbs 8:17 – “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.”

1 Corinthians 13:13 – “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

John 13:34-35 – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”

Peace of God Scriptures

Isaiah 26:3 – “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

Romans 12:18 – “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

Psalm 4:8 – “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Morning Verses for Prayer

As you begin with inspirational morning Bible verses, take some quiet time to pray God’s Word back to Him. Here are some excellent ones to start with.

Psalm 19:14 – “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

Isaiah 12:2 – “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.”

1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

I pray that you found a favorite good morning Bible verse to begin the rest of your day. As you start today in a powerful way with prayer and Bible study, I pray that God’s tender mercy guides you. May our Father of compassion lead you to good deeds today. God bless your day!

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Rubies in the Bible – Meaning and Precious Worth

Posted on April 24, 2024April 24, 2024 by Donna Snow

“She is more precious than rubies” (Proverbs 3:15) is one of the more familiar verses in Scripture. Rubies in the Bible are always associated with value and worth. But what is the precise meaning, history, and folklore behind rubies?

Rubies, a Precious Jewel
Folklore Around Rubies
Rubies in the Bible
Value of Rubies

Rubies, a Precious Jewel

According to the Gem Institute of America, rubies are precious gems classified as a red color variety of corundum stones. Most other colors of corundum are called sapphires. Rubies are sometimes known as a red sapphire. Some rubies are deep red, while others have a color of a reddish tinge.

Classified with a Mohs hardness value of nine, rubies are the hardest minerals known to exist (only diamonds are harder). The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, located in Washington, D.C., houses one of the greatest collections of the world’s finest rubies.

Folklore Around Rubies

The ruby has accumulated a host of legends over the centuries. According to the Gem Institute of America, early cultures treasured rubies for their similarity to the redness of the blood that flowed through their veins. They believed that rubies held the power of life.

Ancient Hindus believed that those who offered fine rubies to their god Krishna were granted rebirth as emperors. Hindus divided rubies into four categories, calling the true Oriental ruby a Brahmin. Someone in possession of a Brahmin was believed to have the advantage of perfect safety.

People in India believed that rubies enabled their owners to live in peace with their enemies. In Burma (a ruby source since at least 600 AD), warriors possessed rubies to make them invincible in battle. Like all reddish gemstones that resembled the color of blood, this gemstone was thought to make the wearer invincible to wounds.

According to “The Curious Lore of Precious Stones”, people in antiquity believed that rubies (like diamonds) were created by a bolt of lightning. They also believed that a real ruby generated light from within the red stone itself.

Rubies in the Bible

Rubies appear less than a dozen times in the Bible in three contexts: virtuous women, the value of wisdom, and as a precious stone. Interestingly, the New Testament does not reference rubies.

According to Easton’s Bible Dictionary, the exact meaning of the Hebrew word in the Old Testament is uncertain. Some render the original word as ruby, red coral, pearl, and even mother of pearl.

The Hebrew word “odem” used in Ezekiel 28 is uniquely translated as ruby: “You were in Eden, God’s garden. You were covered with gold and every precious stone: carnelian, topaz, and moonstone; beryl, onyx, and jasper stone; lapis lazuli, turquoise, and emerald” (Ezekiel 28:13).

1. A Virtuous Woman

The book of Proverbs mentions rubies twice, both in context to the value or price of a virtuous woman:

“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 3:15).
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31:10).

The unambiguous meaning is that a capable wife and the kind of woman with strength of character and true wisdom is a worthy woman. Such a positive affirmation for godly women!

2. Value of Wisdom

Scripture also provides analogies between the value of wisdom and rubies:

“Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies” (Job 28:18).
“For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 8:11).
“Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel” (Proverbs 20:15).

Wisdom means far more than simply making good decisions. Rather, it encompasses God’s way of applying His wisdom to every area of our lives. After all, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:17, 9:10)

3. A Precious Stone

Finally, the Bible references rubies as basically a precious stone. The ruby was one of the stones mentioned in the high priest’s breastplate: “You shall mount on it four rows of stones: the first row shall be a row of ruby, topaz, and emerald” (Exodus 28:17).

Rubies are also mentioned in Isaiah 54 in verses referencing the eternal covenant of peace: “And I will make your battlements of rubies, and your gates of beryl stones, and all your walls of precious stones” (Isaiah 54:12).

Merchant traders offered rubies as part of their goods to buyers: “Syria was thy merchant by reason of the multitude of thy handiworks: they traded for thy wares with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and rubies” (Ezekiel 27:16).

Value of Rubies

Rubies are precious gemstones treasured around the world as a valuable jewel. The color of the ruby and its high value make rubies one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.

The Sunrise Ruby is the most expensive in the world. This 25.59-carat rare jewel holds two records. First, it’s the most expensive ruby in the world valued at over $30 million. Second, it’s the most expensive colored gemstone in the world.

The Sunrise Ruby is a Burmese ruby with the ideal “Pigeon’s Blood” red variety color. Currently, it is encased in a ring of fine gold surrounded by diamond settings of stones.

Bottom Line

Rubies have been classified as one of the most precious stones created by God. Time has not diminished people’s desire to own a multitude of rubies. Rubies continue to be one of the most sought-after gems in the world.

Most importantly, God’s Word remains steadfast that rubies represent the value of wisdom and virtuous women.

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Bible References to Ziz: Road or Mythical Monster?

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Donna Snow

Aside from being a fun word to pronounce for speakers of modern English, Ziz is an actual place that appears in the Bible. However, there is more to the story than Bible references to Ziz.

Ziz also appears as one of the mythical creatures in Jewish lore. Let’s look at Ziz as a place, high priestly breastplate, and giant griffin-like bird of Jewish mythology.

Ziz: An Ancient Road in the Bible
Ziz and the High Priest’s Breastplate
Ziz in Jewish Mythology

Ziz: An Ancient Road in the Bible

The Bible references to Ziz in the Old Testament: “Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel” (2 Chronicles 20:16).

If you love serious bible study using maps, here’s your chance! Ziz is a mountain pass used during marauding expeditions by the Ammonites, a horde of Moabites, and Meunites. They used the actual ascent of Ziz to attack Jerusalem during the reign of King Jehoshaphat.

The context suggests that the pass was a strategic link between Jerusalem and En Gedi. The cliff of Ziz rises on the western shores of the Dead Sea in the wilderness of Judea (2 Chronicles 20:2). The end of the valley (or wadi) is associated with the ascent of Ziz. It lays east of the wilderness of Judah and the wilderness of Tekoa.

In present day Israel, Ziz is specifically associated with a military road. It is located east of the wilderness of Jeruel constructed during the Israelite monarchic period. The present steep pass winds for more than a mile, covering less than half a mile “as the crow flies.”

Ziz and the High Priest’s Breastplate

The second way that the Bible references to Ziz relates to the clergy. Biblical texts go into elaborate detail regarding the high priest’s required dress as he served God. Above all it differed from an ordinary priest’s dress in both content and level of elaborate ornament.

The “ziz” was a golden plate fastened to the high priest’s “mitre.” The mitre (or headgear) was shaped like the inverted calyx of a flower. The ziz was attached by two ribbons of blue lace (symbolizing royalty). The ziz was two fingers wide and reached from temple to temple.

Interestingly, the word “ziz” also means flower. The golden plate called a “ziz” was fastened to the high priest’s headgear which was shaped like a flower.

Ziz in Jewish Mythology

Like American folklore, Jewish oral traditions provide fascinating study. Primordial beasts are common in ancient writing. They provide great stories around a nighttime campfire! Early Christians likely heard these stories of Jewish mythology.

Three great beasts are mentioned in the Bible and Jewish mythology. There are references to a beast of the sea, a beast of the land, and a beast of the air. Each primordial creature could fill fascinating bible stories.

Ziz is allegedly the beast in the animal kingdom that ruled over creatures of the air. It appears under two interchangeable names in the Bible. Ziz is also known as Bar Yochnei. It is mentioned in the original Hebrew in Psalm 80:14 (though generally lost in the English translation)

It is unclear who or what is referenced as the “Ziz” in the Hebrew biblical text However, Jewish sages understood Ziz to be a giant bird. Ziz was so big that its wingspan could block out the sun. The Talmud tells the story of an egg of Ziz so big that its contents drowned sixty cities and broke 300 cedar trees.

The most famous beast in the Old Testament is Leviathan (or twisting serpent of the water). Leviathan represents evil. It could be terrifying to a group of travelers on the sea. And it could shock a child of God with a limited understanding of the Bible, Leviathan represents evil.

Bottom Line

There is no mention of Ziz in the Apocrypha books. Ziz does not appear in any teaching of Jesus, or in the history of the patriarchs. However, a quick bible search feature reveals that Ziz is mentioned in one verse in the original King James version of the Bible.

It’s fun to take a field trip outside of traditional Bible lessons to hear stories of giant mythical birds and a fleeing serpent. Perhaps one day you will visit Israel for a quick drive along the ascent of Ziz!

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The Lineage of Jacob and His Family Tree in the Bible

Posted on April 22, 2024June 18, 2024 by Donna Snow

Who was this man who had a wrestling match with God? We love genealogy because it’s fascinating to understand who we descended from. Lineage is key in Scripture. A study of the lineage of Jacob leads us to the twelve tribes of Israel.

What is one of the most astounding facts about the lineage of Jacob? Following Jacob’s family tree through the generations eventually reveals the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the New Testament.

Who was Jacob?
Overview of Jacob’s Life
Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry
Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood
Twelve Tribes of Israel
The Lineage of Jesus
The Rest of Jacob’s Life

Who was Jacob?

Jacob’s name first appears in the Old Testament book of Genesis. Jacob was the grandson of Abraham and the son of Isaac. The lineage of Jacob is part of Israel’s illustrious line of patriarchs. Jacob was born in Canaan, which later became the nation of Israel and God’s Promised Land to His people.

Jacob was the second son of Isaac and Rebekah. The beginning of Jacob’s life is recorded in Genesis 25:26 – “Afterward his brother came out with his hand holding Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob.” Jacob was a twin, born in birth order moments after his older brother Esau.

The name Jacob means “he takes by the heel” or “he cheats.” It foreshadowed the life-altering, intense rivalry that would grow between Jacob and Esau.

Overview of Jacob’s Life

The lineage of Jacob is one of the most riveting in biblical history. Pivotal moments include rivalry, favoritism, deceit, transformation, forgiveness, and redemption. It’s an epic journey all the way to Jesus’ birth centuries later. Let’s dive in.

Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry

As siblings Jacob and Esau grew older, their differences became evident. Esau was a rugged outdoorsman and skilled hunter while Jacob was more of a quiet homebody (Genesis 25:27).

Favoritism entered the scene in one devastating sentence: “Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob” (Genesis 25:28). Favoritism is a deadly poison in any situation, but especially in families.

One day, Esau returned from hunting exhausted and asked Jacob for some of his stew. Jacob said he would give his brother stew only if Esau sold Jacob his birthright. (A firstborn son received a double portion of his father’s inheritance as a birthright.) Esau agreed and gave his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:29-34).

Later, when their father Isaac became old and was about to die, Rebekah conspired with Jacob to steal Isaac’s blessing from Esau. It’s easy to see why Jacob’s name means “he cheats,” right?

Fearing retaliation from Esau, Jacob fled from home to seek refuge with his maternal uncle Laban. Before Jacob’s departure, Isaac blessed Jacob with God’s promise to be fruitful and multiply. He instructed Jacob to look for a wife among Laban’s daughters rather than the Canaanite women (Genesis 28:1-4).

Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood

A significant turning point in the lineage of Jacob and his life happened during his journey to the distant land of Haran where his uncle Laban lived.

One night near Bethel, Jacob had a dream where he saw the angels of God ascending and descending a ladder to heaven. God said to him: “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring” (Genesis 28:13).

God revealed the lineage of Jacob and his offspring would be blessed and become a great nation in the land of Canaan (Genesis 28:13-17). It would be a long time before God’s plan became a reality, but God left Jacob with this beautiful promise: “Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go” (Genesis 28:15).

1. Jacob’s Marriages to Leah and Rachel

When Jacob reached his uncle Laban’s home, he fell head over heels in love with Laban’s youngest daughter Rachel. Jacob offered to work for Laban for seven years to secure a marriage with Rachel.

After seven years, the wedding took place. However, Laban switched his older daughter Leah for Rachel on their wedding night without Jacob’s knowledge. Although he was furious at Laban’s underhanded trick, Jacob’s love for Rachel had not diminished.

Jacob promised to work for Laban for another seven years to win Rachel’s hand in marriage (Genesis 29:21-30). It took perseverance to marry the only woman Jacob truly loved, but the deal was struck. After working for Laban for fourteen years, Jacob finally got to marry his beloved Rachel.

Through this period of love, betrayal, and perseverance, God significantly transformed Jacob. The lineage of Jacob is blessed with many sons (Genesis 29-30). At the proper time, Jacob finally took his family and livestock and left Laban.

2. Jacob Wrestles with God

One night along the journey, Jacob wrestled with God (Genesis 32:22-32) and then was reconciled to his twin brother Esau (Genesis 33). God continued to bless Jacob and gave him a new name: Israel (Genesis 35:9-15).

3. Jacob’s Children

God made the lineage of Jacob fruitful and blessed him with twelve sons and one daughter (Genesis 29-30). Through his wives and their maidservants, here are Jacob’s children arranged by their birth mothers:

Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin
Bilhah (Rachel’s maidservant): Dan and Naphtali
Leah: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and daughter Dinah
Zilpah (Leah’s maidservant): Gad and Asher

Each son of Jacob became their own tribe for the new nation of Israel.

Twelve Tribes of Israel

Just as God promised, the lineage of Jacob multiplied greatly to form God’s chosen people. Their lineage stretches to this very day.

Jacob’s sons each held a specific destiny from God as the twelve tribes of Israel. Before Jacob’s death, Jacob blessed each of his sons according to God’s instructions.

1: Reuben

Reuben means “behold, a son” and his symbol of blessing means reckless. Jacob’s blessing to Reuben from God:

“Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the firstfruits of my strength, preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power. Unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence, because you went up to your father’s bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch!” (Genesis 49:3-4)

2, 3: Simeon and Levi

Simeon means “hearing” and Levi means “attachment.” Simeon’s and Levi’s symbols of blessing both mean violence. Jacob’s blessings to Simeon and Levi from God:

“Simeon and Levi are brothers; weapons of violence are their swords. Let my soul come not into their council; O my glory, be not joined to their company. For in their anger they killed men, and in their willfulness they hamstrung oxen.Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce, and their wrath, for it is cruel! I will divide them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel” (Genesis 49:5-7).

Warriors in the Bible: 13 Essential Life Lessons to Learn

4: Judah

Judah means “praise” and his symbol of blessing is a lion. Jacob’s blessing to Judah from God:

“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you.Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?”

“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”

“Binding his foal to the vine and his donkey’s colt to the choice vine, he has washed his garments in wine and his vesture in the blood of grapes.His eyes are darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk” (Genesis 49:8-12).

5. Zebulun

Zebulun means “abode” and his symbol of blessing is a ship. Jacob’s blessing to Zebulun from God:

“Zebulun shall dwell at the shore of the sea; he shall become a haven for ships, and his border shall be at Sidon” (Genesis 49:13).

6. Issachar

Issachar means “reward” and his symbol of blessing is a donkey. Jacob’s blessing to Issachar from God:

“Issachar is a strong donkey, crouching between the sheepfolds.He saw that a resting place was good, and that the land was pleasant, so he bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant at forced labor” (Genesis 49:14-15).

7. Dan

Dan means “judgment” and his symbol of blessing is a serpent. Jacob’s blessing to Dan from God:

“Dan shall judge his people as one of the tribes of Israel.Dan shall be a serpent in the way, a viper by the path,
that bites the horse’s heels so that his rider falls backward.I wait for your salvation, O Lord.“Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:16-18).

8. Gad

Gad means “good fortune” and his symbol of blessing is a raider. Jacob’s blessing to Gad from God: “Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:19).

9. Asher

Asher means “happy” and his symbol of blessing is rich food. Jacob’s blessing to Asher from God: “Asher’s food shall be rich, and he shall yield royal delicacies” (Genesis 49:20).

10. Naphtali

Naphtali means “wrestle” and his symbol of blessing is a doe. Jacob’s blessing to Naphtali from God: “Naphtali is a doe let loose that bears beautiful fawns” (Genesis 49:21).

11. Joseph

Joseph means “may he add” and his symbol of blessing means fruitful. He did not become a named tribe of Israel. His two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, became two half-tribes (comprising one tribe) as a double blessing to Joseph. Jacob’s blessing to Joseph from God:

“Joseph is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough by a spring; his branches run over the wall.The archers bitterly attacked him, shot at him, and harassed him severely,yet his bow remained unmoved; his arms were made agile by the hands of the Mighty One of Jacob (from there is the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel),by the God of your father who will help you, by the Almighty who will bless you with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that crouches beneath, blessings of the breasts and of the womb.”

“The blessings of your father are mighty beyond the blessings of my parents, up to the bounties of the everlasting hills. May they be on the head of Joseph, and on the brow of him who was set apart from his brothers” (Genesis 49:22-26).

See Meant for Good, an in-depth Bible study that I wrote of the life of Joseph which contains all of this and much more.

12. Benjamin

Benjamin means “son of the right hand” and his symbol of blessing is a wolf. Jacob’s blessing to Benjamin from God: “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, in the morning devouring the prey and at evening dividing the spoil” (Genesis 49:27).

As for these blessings, Scripture tells us: “All these are the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each with the blessing suitable to him” (Genesis 49:28).

Jacob’s blessings were prophetic over his sons’ lives, as well as those of his two grandsons Manasseh and Ephraim. God’s blessings over you and me as His children are just as powerful, personal, and prophetic.

The Lineage of Jesus

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was prophesied and came through the tribe of Judah (Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38, Genesis 49:10, and Isaiah 11:1). Jesus is called the “Son of David” on a number of occasions throughout the Gospels. King David was born from Judah’s tribe.

God had promised David, the first rightful king of Israel, that his throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-13). This caused the people to long to see David’s greater son, Jesus the Messiah, who would rule forever.

As a descendant of Jacob’s line, Jesus was also rightfully called by Pilate “the king of the Jews” even though Pilate likely did not know that fact.

The Rest of Jacob’s Life

Jacob showed favoritism to Joseph as the firstborn son of his beloved Rachel. Unfortunately, Jacob did not learn the collateral damage that favoritism can cause in a family based on his own history with his twin brother Esau.

Jacob’s ten older sons hated Joseph and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). He ended up in Egypt. After thirteen years as a slave and prisoner, God elevated Joseph to Prime Minister of the land of Egypt. The famine brings Joseph’s brothers to Egypt to buy food and the family is eventually reconciled (Genesis 39-45).

Joseph moves his entire family from Canaan to Egypt to settle in the lush area of Goshen (Genesis 46-47). Jacob lived in Egypt for seventeen years before dying at the age of 147. Following a period of mourning, Joseph and his brothers buried Jacob’s body in the land of Canaan, according to his wishes (Genesis 48-50).

What an extraordinary man and extraordinary story! May God bless your extraordinary life in the Lord, as well.

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Contents

Prayers After the Death of a Loved One

1. God Hears Our Groaning

2. Promise of Almighty God

Prayers for Loved Ones of a Departed Soul

3. Comfort for the Broken Hearted

4. God is Your Strength

Comforting Bible Verses About Death

5. Hope of Eternity

6. God Walks With You

Scripture When Someone Dies

7. God Will Wipe Away Your Tears

8. God of All Comfort

Prayers of Peace After Loss

9. Give Me Light Again

10. Even Jesus Grieved

Bottom Line

Contents

What Does INRI Mean?

Who Was Pontius Pilate?

Why Were Jewish Leaders Upset by the Title?

Did Jesus Ever Call Himself King?

Bottom Line

Promises About God

God’s Mercy

Love of God

Faithful God

God’s Compassion

God’s Grace

Eternal Life

Christ Jesus

Promise of Salvation

Peace of God

A New Heart

Forgiveness of Sins

God’s Good Gifts

Power of the Holy Spirit

Chosen by God

Kingdom of God

Bottom Line

Contents

What Does it Mean to be Pure in Heart?

Heart Identity

Heart of Flesh

Guard Your Heart

Why Does a Clean Heart Matter?

Wise Prayers For Our Hearts

Bottom Line

Contents

What is Adam’s Height?

1. Age in the Old Testament

2. God Created Eve

What was the Tallest Man in the Bible?

Biblical Accounts of Giants

1. The Nephilim

2. Biblical Giants in Gath

Bottom Line

Contents:

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

One Year in the Psalms

Historical Overview One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Read the Bible at Your Own Pace

Read the Bible in 90 Days

90-Day Chronological Bible Reading Plan

Consider Journaling

Bottom Line

​Contents:

Good Bible Verse for Morning

Wisdom Verses to Start the Day

Comfort Verses to Start the Day

Encouragement Bible Verses

Morning Verses to Start the Day

Scripture for Strength

Inspirational Bible Verse for Today

The Lord’s Great Love Verses

Peace of God Scriptures

Morning Verses for Prayer

Contents

Rubies, a Precious Jewel

Folklore Around Rubies

Contents:

4: Judah