Tag: bible study

The Lineage of Jacob and His Family Tree in the Bible

Posted on 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. 

Lineage of Jacob

Contents

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. 

Jerusalem

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).

philipi, greece

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). 

Isaiah 41:10

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. 

Ancient Corinth

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).

rainbow

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)

brimstone and fire

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).

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​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).

Jesus wept

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).

greece

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). 

greece

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).

Ephesus Turkey

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.

joseph

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. 

garden of gethsemane

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. 

longsuffering

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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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.

donna snow

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What is the Biblical Meaning of Restore and Renew?

Posted on by Donna Snow

There are no two ways around it: life is hard. However, the biblical meaning of restore and renew involves God’s way of bringing about a restored soul, restoration of peace, physical restoration, and even financial restitution. 

Hope abounds in Christ! Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are filled with the process of restoration of God’s people in various ways. Let’s dive in.

What Does Restore Mean Biblically?

God’s restoration of us is a beautiful gift. God’s Word is full of Hebrew and Greek words referencing His restoration process.

The dictionary definition of restoration is the action of returning something to a former owner, place, or condition. The biblical meaning of the word “restore” is mostly literal. 

biblical meaning of restore and renew

Tangible Restoration

Land, property, health, life, and other tangibles are the subject of restoration:

  • 1 Kings 20:34 – “I will return the cities my father took from your father,” Ben-Hadad offered. “You may set up your own market areas in Damascus, as my father did in Samaria.”
  • Job 20:10 – “His children must make amends to the poor; his own hands must give back his wealth.”
  • Ezekiel 18:7 – “He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked.”
  • Mark 3:5 – “Jesus looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.”

We see such restoration throughout the Book of Job. The story of Job is sobering to read because he literally loses everything except his life and faith. Job’s friends only see the turn of Job’s fortunes due to sin. But that wasn’t the case. 

God’s desire was to prove to Satan that a believer’s faith can be stronger than any misery they endure – even the severest afflictions. God restored to Job a double portion of the blessings he had before, including Job’s former condition of health and wealth.

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Figurative Restoration

When we look at the figurative usage of restoration, there are several verses to consider covering two overarching areas. 

1. Spiritual Restoration

First and foremost (since it impacts eternal life) is spiritual restoration. This aspect holds a different value than physical restoration because only our spirit is eternal. It is a return to our proper condition before the loss of Eden — a spiritual reset, if you will.

In Psalm 51:12, David writes: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” After falling headlong into sin with Bathsheba, David turns to our God of restoration. 

In Psalm 23:3, the psalmist calls on the name of the Lord for strength during trials: “He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

In Galatians 6:1, mature believers are also encouraged to identify their spiritual gifts and strengths in order to restore the spiritual health of a wayward believer: “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” 

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2. Eschatological Restoration

The Word of God also references an eschatological restoration, which points to the Last Judgment, the reign of Christ, and times of restoration of all things:

  • Matthew 19:28 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel‘.”
  • Acts 3:20-21 – “That times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets long ago.”

Eschatological restoration is a category that garners significant theological discussion and fear fodder for prosperity preachers. But Scripture is clear that the restoration of man comes from God alone through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

sunrise sunset bible

What Does Renew Mean Biblically?

God sent Jesus into the world not only to restore us but to renew us. Biblically, renewal means that we are remade into something new and better in Christ. 

Renewal references God’s process of sanctification. Sanctification encompasses the work of the Holy Spirit, who leads us into eternal life. It includes the gift of faith, justification, our inner transformation, perseverance in faith, and complete renewal on Judgment Day.

In the process of renewal, God removes us from our former place of spiritual darkness and ushers us into His glorious light.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:16 – “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.”
  • Isaiah 40:31 – “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
  • Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

In some places the Bible conveys renewal in a primary sense of literal rather than spiritual. For instance, the kingdom renewal at Gilgal: “Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingship” (1 Samuel 11:14). 

prayers for repentance

What is Spiritual Renewal?

In addition to the points and passages above, spiritual renewal means relying on Christ through faith for inner strength and resolve in our pursuit of God. 

Spiritual renewal is not merely a theological concept. In Christ, we are given a clear sense of sin and its damage that is replaced by a fresh sense of God, His grace, and God’s plan for our lives.

  • Lamentations 5:21 – “Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return.” 
  • Ephesians 4:22-23 – “To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds.” 
  • Colossians 3:9-10 – “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.” 

Spiritual renewal is also viewed from the perspective of repentance: “…and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt” (Hebrews 6:6). Repentance is key to spiritual renewal.

Spiritual renewal includes renewed vigor and realigning our thoughts with God’s truth as the bedrock of our lives. God’s promise to renew us through Christ leads us to the green pastures of His forgiveness, grace, and mercy. Our cup overflows with His restoring, renewing love!

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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.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

What Does the Bible Say About Sunrise and Sunset?

Posted on by Donna Snow

The Bible has much to say about sunrise and sunset, the sun, and even darkness. Sun and light usually represent goodness. Sunset and darkness often signal warning or even evil. 

The first time that I watched the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee, I imagined Peter, John, and the other fishermen seeing a similar sight. It was an unforgettable moment. 

Whether we witness sunrise on a cloudless morning or sunset over the waters of the sea, the Lord of Hosts uses the heavens as His canvas.

What Sunrise Symbolizes Biblically

Sunrise in the Bible reveals profound significance. Among other things, it symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and His divine presence. 

C.S. Lewis once said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” 

From the glory of God to physical light, to new beginnings, the Bible offers a wide variety of symbolism regarding sunrises.

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1.  Sunrise as a New Beginning

The biblical meaning of sunrise usually signifies a new day or new beginning, both spiritually and physically. How many of us feel the hope of God as we start a new day with a blank sin slate?

All of life awakens with a fresh start in the morning light. It brings a sense of universal awe inspired by God’s creations. 

“Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy” (Psalm 65:8). 

The beginning of the day also signifies the cycles of life and nature. The light of dawn and the rising sun often signify a time marker or starting point for a new day or new week.

“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years‘” (Genesis 1:14).

“The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises” (Ecclesiastes 1:5).

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2. Sunrise Evokes Worship

When was the last time you intentionally set an alarm to watch a sunrise? When I visited the rim of the Grand Canyon in 2008, I did precisely that. 

Grabbing my Bible and journal, I headed to perch on a rock overlooking the Canyon at 5:00 a.m. Words simply fail to describe the sense of awe and splendor I experienced that morning.

The sheer beauty and universal awe of a sunrise inspire us to worship the God who created life. God’s glory is physically present as He finger-paints the light of the morning across the sky. The prophet Isaiah understood this well.

“Therefore in the east give glory to the Lord; exalt the name of the Lord, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea” (Isaiah 24:15, NIV).

“Therefore in the east give glory to the Lord; exalt the name of the Lord, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea” (Isaiah 24:15).

“My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul. Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples” (Psalm 108:1-3).

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3. Sunrise Invites Prayer and Guidance

Even a cursory reading of Scripture reveals that the transition from darkness to light often symbolizes spiritual enlightenment. How many times have you felt a sense of sadness or spiritual darkness, stopped to pray, and received instant relief from the Lord? 

As the new light shines each morning, it is wise to pray for God’s presence and great power to guide your day. Here are two of the best Bible verses to pray: 

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life” (Psalm 143:8).

“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly” (Psalm 5:3). 

Even if a sunrise is cloaked in thick clouds that hide the sun from view, we never doubt that the sun has risen and shines above the clouds. We can count on the bright morning star to appear just like the tender mercy of our God.

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4. Reminder of God’s Mercy and Faithfulness

Sunrises are not simply a daily free gift of God; they are hand-painted canvases of divine messages of God’s faithfulness. God did not have to give us sunrises. He wanted to delight us and provide a daily reminder of His faithfulness,

The predictable regularity of sunrise provides a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Even the lamenting prophet understood that God’s love and mercy faithfully arrive with each new day. 

“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” (Lamentations 3:22-24, ESV). 

“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the following morning” (Psalm 30:5).

“For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth” (Psalm 108:4-5).

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days” (Psalm 90:14). 

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5. God’s Victory in the Light of Day

Joshua understood the importance of persevering through the deep darkness of night to celebrate victory in the bright morning. He had the bold faith to even ask God to make the sun stand still!

“At that time Joshua spoke to the Lord in the day when the Lord gave the Amorites over to the sons of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel: “Sun, stand still at Gibeon, and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.” And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies” (Joshua 10:12-13).

How often have you battled an addiction or “terror” through the night? Worry and anxiety are sleep destroyers. Trusting the Lord to bring victory after we have trusted Him and persevered is an extraordinary faith builder.

David understood the need to persevere a full day and through the shadow of death at night, as well.

“David fought them from dusk until the evening of the next day, and none of them got away, except four hundred young men who rode off on camels and fled” (1 Samuel 30:17). 

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6. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

The most important sunrise in all of human history was when God raised Jesus from the dead so that we have the hope of eternal life with Him. 

The disciples thought all was lost as the body of the Lord Jesus was laid in the tomb on Good Friday. But the Son of Man and light of the world did not stay in the grave for long.

“Early on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance” (John 20:1). 

“Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?’ But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away” (Mark 16:2-4).

Christ Jesus rose from the dead and shone the everlasting light of hope and the good news of eternal liberty from the wages of sin. I have never attended an outdoor Easter sunrise church service outside, but it is on my bucket list!

resurrection he is risen easter

Are There Sunrises in Heaven?

When our hope in Christ is fulfilled by faith at our earthly death, He will instantly welcome all believers into heaven.  

God is light and all light emanates from Him. Consequently, there will not be sunrises or sunsets in heaven.

“There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5, NIV). 

After all, we will finally be standing in the presence of the Lord! I don’t know about you, but my eyes will be plastered on Jesus, not looking for any other source of great light.

rainbow blessings

What Sunset Symbolizes Biblically

Just as the sunrise begins each day afresh, the sunset signifies the end of a season, a life, or a day. It is also a perfect time to reflect on what the Lord has done during each day.

1. Sunsets Inspire Reflection and Worship

If you are reading this at night, what good thing (or several things) did the Lord do for you today? I once heard a friend say, “Thank you, Lord, for counting my blessings because I can’t count that high.” Sunset is a beautiful time for reflection and worship.

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat” (Psalm 19:1-2, 6). 

“Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore! From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” (Psalm 113:2-3, ESV).

“May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice” (Psalm 141:2).

sun globe

2. Sunsets Offer Reconciliation

How often have you worked all day and welcomed the setting of the sun after completing your good works that day? As the day declines, we rest from our labor. 

We spend time with family or friends as we wind down. It is also a time to settle accounts, so to speak, for that day. A final opportunity to make things right before falling asleep.

“In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27). 

“If you take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset” (Exodus 22:6).  

“Pay them their wages each day before sunset, because they are poor and are counting on it. Otherwise they may cry to the Lord against you, and you will be guilty of sin” (Deuteronomy 24:15). 

sunset greece

3. Evening Offers Rest

Scripture tells us that God never sleeps: “Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleep” (Psalm 121:4, NLT). 

However, the Lord gives us sleep because He knows that we need it. Rest is vital! And we can sleep peacefully knowing that God is ever watchful over us.

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

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul” (Psalm 23:1-3a).

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him” (Psalm 91:1-2).

sunset

4. Evening Offers Peace and Restoration

During Jesus’ three years of public ministry, His work never ceased. In fact, it often continued through the night until the next day.

“At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them” (Luke 4:40).

What a beautiful example for Christians to follow! Just because the sun has set does not mean our calling to share the Good News clocks out. Time is short.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field’” (Matthew 9:37-38).

reading space peace

5. Significant Biblical Events After Sunset

Whether your day was wonderful or heartbreaking, the Lord walked through every moment with you. He never left you alone. He watches, moves, and works after the sun sets each day.

Throughout the Bible, some of the most significant events took place after the sun had set.

  • Jesus and the disciples celebrated the Passover Meal in the Upper Room. (Mark 14:16-18)
  • Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. (John 18)
  • Jesus calmed the night storm that threatened to capsize the disciples’ boat. (Mark 4:35-41)
  • During Jesus’ ministry, he would heal people during the day and spend the night in prayer with His Father. (Luke 21:36-38)
  • The resurrected Jesus first appeared to the disciples at night. (John 20:19-10)

“From the rising of the sun to the place of its setting people may know there is none besides me. I am the Lord, and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:6).

Sunrises and sunsets are gifts from God. Through them, we gain a glimpse of His artistic beauty that we will one day experience for all eternity.

Related Posts:

About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Brimstone and Fire – What is the Biblical Meaning?

Posted on by Donna Snow

Chances are you have heard the term “fire and brimstone.” However, this well-known phenomenon only appears fourteen times in the Bible.

The significance of God’s judgment in connection with brimstone and fire is worthy of a more in-depth understanding.

brimstone and fire

Definition of Brimstone

Brimstone (sulfur) is a well-known simple mineral substance, crystalline, easily melted, and very inflammable. The origin of the word brimstone comes from how sulfur was referred to in ancient times. Scientists have simply assigned it a proper scientific name. 

When burning, brimstone (sulfur) emits blue flames and a peculiar suffocating odor resembling rotten eggs. It is found in great abundance near volcanoes. 

The soil around the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah abounded in sulfur and bitumen. The inflammability of both substances (the quality of being easily ignited and burning rapidly) is high. In other words, you don’t want to walk around with a torch near either substance!

Related post: What is Light? Biblical and Spiritual Characteristics

light

Where is Brimstone Found?

According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, brimstone (sulfur) existed in Palestine in early times. It was known by most of the ancient nations as a combustible substance. In the vicinity of the Dead Sea, deposits of sulphur are still being formed along its shores.

During some of the disastrous earthquakes that took place in this part of the world, hot lava likely ignited bitumen along with sulfer. Such a fireworks display added to the horrors of an earthquake’s destruction caused by burning pitch and brimstone.

In 1896, German geologist Max Blanckenhorn proposed a verifiable hypothesis. He believed that the combustible formation was due to the action of bituminous matter upon crystals of gypsum. Both substances are found in our present time associated with each other in the cities of the plain.

[Join me on my next Holy Land tour here.]

Qumran, Israel

Modern Scientific Facts About Brimstone

Scientists have found that the vast majority of brimstone (sulfer) dwells deep in the Earth’s core.  

Researchers estimate that the Earth’s core contains 10 times the amount of sulfur than found on its surface.

Confirming the presence of lighter elements, like sulfur, in the core, provides vital information. Temperatures, pressures, and oxygen content in the Earth’s mantle surrounds the core and separates sulfer from the crust on which we walk.

Related post: The Biblical Meaning of Rainbows and Double Rainbows

What is the Biblical meaning of rainbows?

Figurative Use of Brimstone

Why are we so captivated by the term “fire and brimstone”? The figurative use of brimstone symbolizes God’s punishment, destruction, and terrible suffering of the unfaithful. 

The figurative use of the word brimstone is associated with the wrath of God’s judgment. It references being cast into a lake of fire, burning wind, and great hailstones of a metaphorical “rain of fire.” That is the stuff of movies!

However, God’s divine judgments are anything but Hollywood’s visual effects. God’s wrath is a consuming fire that wiped out inhabitants of the cities of old with inextinguishable flames. 

Related post: What Does Longsuffering Mean in the Bible?

longsuffering

Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

Sodom and Gomorrah are two cities mentioned in the Bible that were destroyed for their wickedness and sinfulness. The Book of Genesis states: “Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground” (Genesis 19:24-25, KJV). 

God sent angels to the cities that were destined for destruction. Lot invited the angels into his home but a group of people surrounded the house. They demanded that Lot release them so that the villagers could have their way with them. Lot refused and protected the men, even offering his virgin daughters in their place. 

Having confirmed the iniquity and destruction of these cities, the angels told Lot and his family to flee at daybreak. They were instructed not look back during the overthrow of Sodom. Lot’s wife could not resist throwing a backward glance at her home and was turned into a pillar of salt.

Deuteronomy 29:23 reveals: “The whole land burned out with brimstone and salt, nothing sown and nothing growing, where no plant can sprout, an overthrow like that of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, which the Lord overthrew in his anger and wrath.”

Related post: 10 Powerful Prayers for Repentance and Restoration

prayers for repentance

Brimstone in the Old Testament

Most occurrences of brimstone (accompanied by fire and burning) appear in the Old Testament.

“For a burning place has long been prepared; indeed, for the king it is made ready, its pyre made deep and wide, with fire and wood in abundance; the breath of the Lord, like a stream of sulfur, doth kindle it” (Isaiah 30:33). 

Isaiah 34:9: “And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch.” Even though that is the King James translation of the Bible, eternal punishment comes through loud and clear.

Psalm 11:6: “Let him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup.”

Looking at Isaiah 34:9 in the King James Bible, fire and brimstone are combined to depict eternal damnation. “And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch.”

Such passages like Ezekiel 38:22 contain sobering visuals of the power of God’s punishment and destruction: “With pestilence and bloodshed I will enter into judgment with him, and I will rain upon him and his hordes and the many peoples who are with him torrential rains and hailstones, fire and sulfur.”

Related post: Powerful Prayer for God’s Protection from Psalm 91

God's protection

Brimstone in the New Testament

Three times in the Book of Revelation, fire and brimstone are used to express the idea of excruciating torment.

“And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, ​he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb” (Revelation 14:9-10, ESV). 

“And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur” (Revelation 19:20, ESV). 

“And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Revelation 20:10, ESV). 

The inhabitants of the land will experience the horrible tempest of burning sulfur (or rain coals). If the deposits caught fire it would melt and run in a stream of brimstone down the ravines. It would have spread suffocating fumes (such as come from the ordinary brimstone match). 

Related post: What Does Rain Symbolize in the Bible?

What Does Rain Symbolize in the Bible?

Brimstone in our Modern Day

Sulfur is an element boasting a bright yellow color that is abundant in nature even today. A nonmetal, sulfur is the 10th most abundant element in the universe, according to the Jefferson National Linear Accelerator Laboratory.

Sulfur compounds called “mercaptans” give skunks their defensive odor. Rotten eggs and stink bombs get their distinctive aroma because of hydrogen sulfide.

Today, the most common use of sulfur is in the manufacture of sulfuric acid. That acid goes into fertilizers, batteries, and cleaners. It’s also used to refine oil and in processing ores.

Related post: The Mandela Effect and the Bible

The Mandela Effect and the Bible

Our Hope in Christ

Destruction from the breath of Jehovah is NOT the destiny of those who place their hope in Christ. The love of God provided a way out of eternal destruction by sending Jesus to die for our sins.

There is good news! Salvation is a beautiful gift of God. Salvation is given to all those who believe by faith that Jesus is the Son of God. God desires every name to be written in the Book of Life because the grace of God reigns supreme.

Related Posts:

About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

What Does the Number 8 Mean and Signify in the Bible?

Posted on by Donna Snow

If you have spent any time in Bible study, chances are you have come across the number 8 several times. So what does the number 8 mean and signify in the Bible?

Both the Old Testament and New Testament contain several references to the number 8. There are many theories surrounding the numerology of prophecy, but we will stick to what we see in the text of Scripture.

Contents

Biblical Meaning of the Number 8

Scholars have spent significant time understanding the meaning of numbers in the Word of God. 

The number 8 usually represents a new beginning. It is often linked to a brighter future, new horizons, and a new life in general. In the historic Christian Church, the number 8 also represents Jesus’ resurrection.

I also discovered something that I didn’t know before: many church baptismal fonts are eight-sided to signify a fresh start and spiritual life. Now I will be counting font sides in every church I visit!

I clearly remember my baptism at 23 years old on Palm Sunday, one week before Easter Sunday. It was the beginning of a new era and work of the Lord in my life.

bible

What Does the 8th Day Represent in the Bible?

The eighth day is the day associated with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and His ascension. It is also the number of a new beginning and the dawn of the new creation that appears for the first time in the Book of Genesis. 

The eighth day has long been associated with the number of new beginnings, namely the eternal life that God alone provides.

The eighth day also held a special meaning for the children of Israel as the day that every male child was circumcised. Jewish traditions of circumcision continue today, alongside Christians across the globe: 

“This is my covenant, which you shall keep, between me and you and your offspring after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised. You shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and you. He who is eight days old among you shall be circumcised. Every male throughout your generations, whether born in your house or bought with your money from any foreigner who is not of your offspring” (Genesis 17:10-12).

Circumcision on the eighth day is also mentioned by the Apostle Paul: “For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God” (Romans 2:28-29).  

The shape of the baptismal font then reflects this “circumcision of the heart” and the new birth of water and the Holy Spirit that takes place in baptism.

rainbow

Where Does the Number 8 Appear in the Bible?

The biblical meaning of number 8 begins in Genesis and goes into the New Testament. Here are the most significant and familiar occurrences of the number 8.

1. The Great Flood

The number eight recalls Noah’s ark and how eight people were saved from the Great Flood. “When God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water” (1 Peter 3:20).

Genesis chapter 6 tells us, “Now the earth was corrupt in God’s sight, and the earth was filled with violence. And God saw the earth, and behold, it was corrupt, for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth. And God said to Noah, “I have determined to make an end of all flesh, for the earth is filled with violence through them. Behold, I will destroy them with the earth” (Genesis 6:11-13). 

The story of Noah reveals our Lord God tearing down the corruption of the world and starting over with only eight faithful people. A new covenant, a new order, and a bright future.

rain, weep

2. Jesus’ Resurrection

Sunday is the first day of the week. It was the eighth day after Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. After Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection on Easter Sunday, He appeared to Mary Magdalene and His disciples a total of eight times before His ascension.

  • Mark 16:9 – “Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons.” 
  • Matthew 28:9-10 – “And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”
  • Luke 24:13-15 – “That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them.”
  • John 20:19 – “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.'” 
  • Mark 16:14 – “Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen.”
  • John 21:1 – “After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias.”
  • Matthew 28:16-17 – “Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted.”
  • Acts 1:3 – “He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.”
Jesus wept

3. Feast of Tabernacles

The Feast of Tabernacles celebrated by the Israelites (and is still celebrated to this day) takes place over the course of seven days. 

On the day after, another feast is celebrated, known as the Last Great Day, so all in all, this makes for an eight-day celebration.

Jesus spoke on this Last Great Day: “On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink” (John 7:37).

delphi greece

4. The Beatitudes

The number 8 is also associated with the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes are a set of eight statements attributed to Jesus. Each of these statements contains a blessing for a particular group of people. 

The eight Beatitudes appear in chapter 5 of the Gospel of Matthew. Four of the Beatitudes are also listed in the Gospel of Luke 6:22.

  • “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).
  • “Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land” (Matthew 5:4).
  • “Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:5).
  • “Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill” (Matthew 5:6).
  • “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).
  • “Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8).
  • “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
  • “Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10).
bible study

Bottom Line

Numbers can contain significant meaning in the Bible. However, nothing is more significant than the perfect life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ to redeem us from our sins. God bless your study time.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Top 10 Longest and Hardest Names in the Bible

Posted on by Donna Snow

If you have ever studied the Old Testament, you have probably noticed that some of the longest and hardest names in the Bible reside there. 

Yes, the New Testament contains some unique biblical names, but the Old Testament takes the cake! Here are the top ten longest and hardest names, along with Bible verses reference.

longest hardest names in Bible

1. Maher-shalal-hash-baz

Did you try to pronounce it? Wow! The name Mahershalalhashbaz is found twice in the book of Isaiah:

Then the Lord said to me, “Take a large tablet and write on it in common characters, ‘Belonging to Maher-shalal-hash-baz.’ And I will get reliable witnesses, Uriah the priest and Zechariah the son of Jeberechiah, to attest for me.” And I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and bore a son. Then the Lord said to me, “Call his name Maher-shalal-hash-baz” (Isaiah 8:1-3, ESV).

Out of all Isaiah’s sons, I think I would have preferred Isaac. But here, God instructs Isaiah to give his second son this unique name containing eighteen letters and six syllables. That is a long name!

Before Maher-shalal-hash-baz was even conceived, God told Isaiah the boy’s name which means “Swift to the spoil, quick to the plunder.” Born during the Syro-Ephraimite War involving Syria, Israel, and the Assyrian Empire, it prophesied Israel’s fall to the king of Assyria, Tiglath-Pileser III, in 732 BC.

longest names in the bible

2. Cushan-rishathaim

Is it wrong that I keep pronouncing it like the flower chrysanthemum? This proper name is the second-longest name in the Bible and appears in Judges:

“Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia. And the people of Israel served Cushan-rishathaim eight years. But when the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the people of Israel, who saved them, Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. The Spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the Lord gave Cushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand. And his hand prevailed over Cushan-rishathaim” (Judges 3:8-10, ESV).  

This king of northwest Mesopotamia was the first oppressor of the Israelites after they settled in the Promised Land (Canaan). God allowed the children of Israel to fall under the punishment of this king for eight years for idol worship until their hearts turned back toward God.

Greece and Turkey longest names in the bible

3. Zaphenath-paneah 

In the number three spot of long names and long words appears a well-known character. I learned this name when I studied the story of Joseph in Genesis, where it appears in only one Bible verse:

“And Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-paneah. And he gave him in marriage Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On. So Joseph went out over the land of Egypt” (Genesis 41:45, ESV). 

When Pharaoh elevated Joseph to the prime minister of Egypt ahead of the seven-year famine, Pharaoh replaced the Hebrew name “Joseph” with this whopper.

Given by Pharaoh, the name seems to be Egyptian, but the exact meaning is unclear. Most scholars agree that it generally means, “the man to whom mysteries are revealed.” Since God gave Joseph the gift of interpreting dreams, that meaning certainly makes sense.

Find my Bible study on Joseph, “Meant for Good,” here.

joseph

4. Merodach-baladan

This man was a king of Babylon and is mentioned in the book of Isaiah:

“At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered” (Isaiah 39:1, ESV).

Merodach-Baladan II was king of Babylonia from 721-710 BC. One of the interesting facts about him is that he also served as king for only nine months in 703 BC. He is best known for maintaining Babylonian independence against the Assyrian military supremacy for more than a decade. 

Greece and Turkey

5. Tiglath-pileser

Another tongue twister, this name is found in the book of 1 Chronicles:

“Beerah his son, whom Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria carried away into exile; he was a chief of the Reubenites. … And when they prevailed over them, the Hagrites and all who were with them were given into their hands, for they cried out to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him” (1 Chronicles 5:6, 20, ESV).

Tiglath-pileser was the king of Assyria during 745-727 BC. He inaugurated the last and greatest phase of Assyrian Expansion as he merged the kingdoms of Assyria and Babylonia. He amassed vast wealth as he conquered neighboring lands.

Greece Athens

6. Nebuchadnezzar

Finally, a name that we are familiar with probably because it appears over 90 times in the Old Testament. This name occurs 39 times in Jeremiah and 30 times in Daniel, along with seven other books.

“At that time the servants of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up to Jerusalem, and the city was besieged. And Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to the city while his servants were besieging it…and carried off all the treasures of the house of the Lord and the treasures of the king’s house, and cut in pieces all the vessels of gold in the temple of the Lord, which Solomon king of Israel had made, as the Lord had foretold. He carried away all Jerusalem and all the officials and all the mighty men of valor, 10,000 captives, and all the craftsmen and the smiths. None remained, except the poorest people of the land” (2 Kings 24:10-11, 13-14, ESV).

He was the most famous Babylonian king, as well as one of the most powerful rulers to ever appear on the world stage. He carried off Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, among thousands of others. Yet like all kings, Nebuchadenzzar’s might was nothing compared to Israel’s Mighty God.

Alexander the Great

7. Mephibosheth

This also may be a familiar name if you know King David’s story. Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan, grandson of King Saul, who was crippled in his feet. He appears fourteen times in Scripture:

“And David said, “Is there still anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Samuel 9:1, ESV). 

Though not brothers, David loved Jonathan like a brother. After David became king of Israel, he wanted to honor Jonathan’s memory by honoring any surviving family members. David promised Mephibosheth:

“I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan, and I will restore to you all the land of Saul your father, and you shall eat at my table always” (2 Samuel 9:7, ESV).

Ancient Corinth

8. Chedorlaomer

Appearing five times in the book of Genesis, Chedorlaomer was a king of Elam:

“In the days of Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of Goiim, these kings made war with Bera king of Sodom, Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (that is, Zoar). And all these joined forces in the Valley of Siddim (that is, the Salt Sea). Twelve years they had served Chedorlaomer, but in the thirteenth year they rebelled” (Genesis 14:1-4, ESV).

In the 14th year, Chedorlaomer and three allies, Amraphel of Shinar, Arioch from Ellasar, and Tidal of Goiim, put down the rebellion. Among Chedorlaomer’s captives was Abraham’s nephew Lot, who had been living nearby. 

Ephesus Turkey

9. Hazarmaveth

The thirteenth son of Joktan (son of Eber, son of Shem, son of Noah), Hazarmaveth appears twice. Both times his appearance is in the context of Noah’s lineage:

“Joktan fathered Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, Obal, Abimael, Sheba, Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab; all these were the sons of Joktan” (1 Chronicles 1:20-23, ESV).

A very interesting fact about Hazarmaveth is that his name means “court of death.” However, Scripture does not reveal why he was given this name.

Ephesus Turkey

10. Ammishaddai

Appearing five times in the book of Numbers, our number ten spot of long Biblical names comes from the Tribe of Dan:

“On the north side shall be the standard of the camp of Dan by their companies, the chief of the people of Dan being Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai” (Numbers 2:25, ESV). 

Ammishaddai was the father of Ahiezer, who was chief of the Danites at the time of the Exodus. This is one of the few names compounded with the name of God, Shaddai, “Almighty.” 

Bottom line, there are some long names in the Bible. These are just the top 10! I hope you have fun exploring the Bible for even more.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Inspiring Bible Verses to Encourage New Christians

Posted on by Donna Snow

I did not know Jesus until I was twenty-three years old. I fully understand the learning and relationship curves of a new life in Christ! Inspiring Bible verses served as cornerstones.

If this is your first time learning about God and studying the Bible, I am cheering you on! Your faith is a free gift of God. You are a new creation because of the love of God.

God will faithfully lead you on the right path. The key? Go slow and be consistent. Here are some inspiring Bible verses and the best Bible verses to memorize for your new beginning. 

Contents

Where Do I Start?

Studying the Bible can be intimidating. I understand! There are sixty-six books in the Bible. The Old Testament contains 39, and the New Testament contains 27 books. And the vast majority of those books contain several chapters.

God’s Word is a large book providing the roadmap for your Christian faith. Take your time. Understanding the content is the goal, not how fast you get through it. 

Pick one book in the Word of God and get started. I suggest starting with the Gospel of John because it is a comprehensive story of Jesus’ life. God’s love is on full display in this beautiful book.

It may still seem overwhelming, but the good news is that the power of the Holy Spirit inside of you will guide the way. Your heavenly Father provides wisdom and understanding as you need it.

Related Post​: 13 Best Bible Study Methods

reading space

Inspiring Bible Verses for New Christians

One of the ways to learn more about God is by reading the Bible. As Christians, we read the Bible to know God, God’s will, and God’s promises (among other things). 

Start by picking one of these Bible verses and read it a few times. Then pause to think about what that verse means. What is God communicating to you in that verse? 

  • John 3:16-17 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
  • Romans 10:9 – “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” 
  • Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  • Ephesians 2:8-10 – “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. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

Related post: What Does the Bible Say About Forgive and Forget?

bible study

Top Bible Verses to Memorize for New Christians

God desires to communicate with you through His Word and prayer. A relationship with God means that you know Him and how He feels about you. 

The following verses are important to reflect on as a new believer. They will help you understand more about God and the kingdom of God to which you now belong.

  • Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 – “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Related post: Best Bible Verses to Memorize (plus free download)

books

Bible Verses for New Believers

The more Bible verses you read, the more God reminds you of the hope that all Christians have in Christ. You will face difficult times, but our God of hope walks right beside you.

Some verses are more difficult than others. Many Bibles have notes at the bottom of each page to help your own understanding of Scripture. I have found the Thompson Chain Reference Bible and the Lutheran Study Bible most helpful. 

  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Related post​: Seven Powerful Truths About Biblical Discipline

reading and journaling

Scriptures to Pray for New Believers

If you are just starting your prayer journey with God, again I am cheering you on! God, Creator of the universe, hears every single word. 

One of the most effective ways to pray is simply to use Scripture. Simply say the words back to God from you like you’re talking with Him face-to-face. Your journey of faith will be blessed. 

  • Psalm 94:18-19 – “When I thought, ‘My foot slips,’ Your steadfast love, O LORD, helped me up. When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul.”
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7​ – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”
  • Psalm 51:10 – “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

Related post​: 7 Essential Elements of Prayer (Plus Free Download)

prayer bible

Words of Encouragement for New Believers

Through faith, you have become a new person (creation). The Word of Christ dwells in you through the power of the Holy Spirit and enables you to live differently. 

You will be a better person as your life begins producing the good fruit of good deeds. By the grace of God, you see others as children of God and treat them with greater love.

Your spiritual journey will carve rich, new paths in your life to share the Gospel message with others. That may sound intimidating! It simply means you are open to sharing with others the fresh start and new life God has given you.

In the beginning, you will stumble and fall back into old ways every now and then. I certainly did. But God who is in you is greater than your struggle. He is faithful! God promises:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

rainbow waterfall

Bible Topics for New Believers

Life with God is a relationship. Christ Jesus knit you together in your mother’s womb and knows you better than you know yourself.

This collection of Bible verses is organized by topic. They are important Bible verses to understand God’s plan, God’s strength, and God’s handiwork for everyday life.

1. Bible Passages on Peace

The hurt and chaos of our world reveal times of trouble. However, followers of Jesus can look to these inspiring Bible verses as a good reminder that Jesus is our Prince of Peace.

  • Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
  • Revelation 21:4​ – “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And He who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.”

Related post​: 13 Best Ways to Live Out Gentleness in the Bible

bible study

2. Conquering Fear

Life’s challenges can certainly cause fear. However, the more you devour the solid food of God’s Word, the more you can understand that the power of God can conquer each and every fear.

Here are some inspiring Bible verses to keep your eyes on Jesus rather than your fears.

  • Psalm 34:4-5, 8 – “I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!”
  • 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.”
  • Isaiah 41:13 – “For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.”

Related post: Warriors in the Bible: 13 Essential Life Lessons to Learn

fear prayer

3. Battling Worry

Some of the best advice I ever heard went something like this: “Make a list of everything you are worried about. Cross off the ones that you can’t control. Focus on the ones you can.” 

More than 85% of what we worry about will never come to pass. So instead of wasting time worrying, increase your spiritual growth by focusing on God. He can handle and take care of ALL of your worries.

  • Matthew 6:31-34 – “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or “What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
  • Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God.”
  • Romans 12:12​ – “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
bible study

4. The Steadfast Love of Christ

God loved you so much that He sent His one and only Son to die for your sin. There is no greater love! On those days when you have a hard time feeling loved, keep these inspiring Bible verses close.

  • Romans 8:38-39​ – “ 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.”
  • 1 John 4:10-11​ – “ In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. ​Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”
  • Romans 5:7-8 – “For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die—but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
  • Isaiah 54:10 – “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”

Related post: 50 Bible Verses About Loving Yourself as Christ Loves You

love of Christ

5. Trusting God

People are sinful and we fail. Period. Even those we hold most dear can falter and disappoint us. But when you put your trust in God, He will never fail you. He will never disappoint you. He will always keep His promises.

  • 1 John 5:18 – “We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him.”
  • Hebrews 11:1 ​- “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
  • Romans 8:24-25​ – “For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.”
  • 1 Chronicles 16:11​ – “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”
  • Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

These inspiring Bible verses are just the tip of the iceberg! As you read through Scripture, God will bless you and draw you to verses that you can cling to in every stage of your journey.

prayer sunrise trust

Bottom Line

Now that you’ve started your Christian faith, life isn’t going to be perfect. Life still happens! Your debt won’t magically disappear, your relationships and job stresses won’t necessarily change overnight.

But hold on to God’s promise that He will work for your good. He loves you and wants the very best for you. We may not understand it in our limited view of life and short-sighted perspective of this world, but we can trust that God will work on our behalf as we live out our purpose.

I have tons of free resources on my website that you can download and tuck into your Bible. God bless your journey!

Related Posts:

About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

How Many Times Jesus Wept in the Bible (Jesus Weeps)

Posted on by Donna Snow

In this broken world, you and I understand weeping. So it is powerful to know that Jesus wept. His compassion and sorrow to weep demonstrate just how much He loves each one of us. 

So how many times did Jesus weep in the Bible? Only twice. And each occasion where He wept is eye-opening and instructive. Let’s look at Jesus’ tears more closely.

Contents

How Many Times Did Jesus Weep?
Jesus Weeps at the Death of Lazarus
Jesus Wept Over Jerusalem
Did Jesus Weep in the Garden of Gethsemane?
Does Jesus Weep With Us?
Why Should We Weep Over Our Sin?

How Many Times Did Jesus Weep?

During my research, I ran across various sources that counted Jesus weeping three times or more. Some attributed the “loud cries” of Christ Jesus as actual tears. The original language does not support that interpretation. 

Other references, like the book of Hebrews, count Jesus as weeping when it only refers to the actual times Jesus wept (Hebrews 5:7).

There is a common misconception that Jesus wept in the Garden of Gethsemane. However, on the pages of Scripture Jesus wept only twice. One time for the present suffering of friends, and the other time for the future suffering of His people.

1. Jesus Weeps at the Death of Lazarus 

One of the most well-known instances of Jesus weeping is over the death of his friend Lazarus. 

“Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. It was Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was ill. So the sisters sent to him, saying, ‘Lord, he whom you love is ill‘” (John 11:1-3).

Now Jesus loved Lazarus and his two sisters, Mary and Martha (John 11:5). He visited them often and enjoyed their friendship.

rain, weep

Jesus Arrives in Bethany

Lazarus had been dead for four days by the time Jesus arrived at their house in Bethany. The book of John tells us what happened next. 

Mary remained in the house, but Martha ran to meet Jesus. “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you” (John 11:21-22). Ouch.

Despite her grief and harsh accusation, Martha still believes that Jesus can perform a miracle. Martha’s grief was not a lack of faith. Like us, Martha understood that Jesus could take hurt-filled questions without writing us off. She clung to the faith that He had given her and believed in a miracle. What a testimony!

“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. So the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” (John 11:33-36)

The Purpose of Jesus’ Delay

Jesus intentionally delayed going to Bethany and the tomb of His friend Lazarus despite Mary and Martha’s message. Why? “This illness does not lead to death. It is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it” (John 11:4). 

Jesus knew that his close friend Lazarus’ earthly death was not eternal. And He wanted everyone there to understand that truth, as well.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world‘” (John 11:25-27).

Again, what faith! Now the stage was set and the audience was present for Jesus to perform a miracle regarding Lazarus’ death.

prayers

Lazarus Raised From the Dead

Only Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. And the entire village had the privilege of seeing firsthand that truth come to life as they went to Lazarus’ tomb:

“Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that you sent me.’ When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out.’ The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, and let him go‘” (John 11:38, 41-44).

What a scene to behold! Jesus spoke three power-packed simple words, “Lazarus, come out.” And many of the Jews present at the tomb of Lazarus believed in Jesus. 

Despite our worst moments of pain and suffering, Jesus is our hope and refuge. The Name of the Lord is a strong tower (Proverbs 18:10) and we can run to Him. 

When we believe by faith that Jesus suffered, died, rose from the grave, and sits on heaven’s throne, our earthy death is a precursor to spending eternity with Him. 

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2. Jesus Wept Over Jerusalem

The second occasion in the holy Bible where we see tears of sorrow from Jesus is on the day of His triumphal entry. 

“And when He drew near and saw the city, He wept over it, saying, ‘Would that you, even you, had known on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes'” (Luke 19:41-42).

It would be easy to see that Palm Sunday parade as Jesus’ victory dance into Jerusalem. In reality, it was the beginning of His last days on earth. 

As what we call “Holy Week” began, the people spread their cloaks in front of Jesus’ donkey and cheered as He rode into Jerusalem. But Jesus’s tears reveal that He knew what was coming for the people of Jerusalem:

“For the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up a barricade around you and surround you and hem you in on every side and tear you down to the ground, you and your children within you. And they will not leave one stone upon another in you, because you did not know the time of your visitation” (Luke 19:43-44).

The Lutheran Study Bible sums up that moment beautifully: “Jesus weeps over Jerusalem’s present blindness and future fate. His heart still breaks for those who have not yet received His Word” (p.1757).

Jerusalem

Did Jesus Weep in the Garden of Gethsemane?

The New Testament reveals that on the night that Jesus was betrayed, Jesus first spent time with His disciples in the Upper Room. 

As they finished with Jesus instituting the Lord’s Supper, they walked outside the city of Jerusalem toward the Mount of Olives.

The Garden of Gethsemane was a walled garden full of olive trees used for extracting oil. Just east of Jerusalem, Jesus and His disciples often met in the Garden. A portion of that Garden remains today which is a truly special stop on my regular trips to the Holy Land.

A. Jesus in the Garden

Jesus spent time in deep, sorrowful prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. Here we see this Man of Sorrows in emotional turmoil as He understands the task ahead of Him. 

“Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, ‘Sit here, while I go over there and pray.’ And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me‘” (Matthew 26:36-38, ESV). 

Jesus was sorrowful, yet Scripture does not say that He wept. The Gospel of Luke reveals what happened:

“And there appeared to Him an angel from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony He prayed more earnestly; and His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:43-44, ESV). 

Jesus’ sorrow produced sweat like great blood drops, not tears. The heart of Jesus was broken on our behalf that night because of His deep love for us. 

Saying a simple “thank you” for Jesus’ sacrifice does not even begin to express our gratitude for such a life-changing gift.

B. What Jesus Accomplished in the Garden

The Son of God understood that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). So He took our sin to the cross to offer us the certain hope of eternity with Him (John 3:16).

Upon Jesus that night was laid the entire weight of the world’s sin–past, present, and future. I do not believe we can fully imagine the gargantuan weight of our sin load. Instead of weeping, Jesus prayed.

“And going a little farther He fell on His face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will'” (Matthew 26:39, ESV).

In the Garden, our Lord Jesus Christ surrendered His will to God so that we might have everlasting life. Talk about Good News of great joy! 

Our sinful human nature relegated us to hell, but Jesus could not bear the thought. So He offered His perfect life in genuine love to every human being who believes by faith that He died and rose victoriously for their salvation.

Does Jesus Weep With Us?

Jesus is known as the Suffering Servant. Isaiah 53:3 tells us: “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” Jesus knew suffering throughout His earthly life. He was maligned by religious leaders and suffered unimaginable physical pain. 

“Jesus wept” is the shortest verse of the Bible (John 11:35, ESV). It is also one of the most profound statements of Christ’s humanity.

Sometimes the comfort we need amid heartbreaking trouble is to reflect upon a weeping Savior who still weeps for us. But if Christ continues to weep, He continues to suffer. And if He continues to suffer, He cannot say about his atoning work “It is finished” (John 19:30).

However, Scripture confirms that our Lord God grieves: “How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved him in the desert!” (Psalm 78:40, also Ephesians 4:30) 

Jesus wept on earth. Literal weeping is never attributed to Christ in heaven. But it is certainly accurate and comforting to understand that God’s heart is moved, grieved, and broken by our sin (Genesis 6:6).

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Why Should We Weep Over Our Sin?

Let’s start with the simple truth. We are all sinners who fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). And the truth about sinners is that we sin.

Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2), and it has since sin entered into the world and removed Adam and Eve from paradise (Genesis 3).

The very last thing we want is to be separated from the One who provides eternal life. So we weep over our sin. We confess to our Holy God and receive divine forgiveness.

God sent Jesus to justify and redeem us as a free gift of grace (Romans 3:24-25). Jesus gave His life so that we might have the righteousness of God. When we fall into willful sin (or any other sin), those actions and thoughts spit on Jesus’ sacrifice. 

​Our loving Father sacrificed His only Son for us. The very least we can do is to rely on His strength to live good, godly lives that point people to Jesus.

Related Posts:

About the Author

Donna Snow 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

The Biblical Meaning of Rainbows and Double Rainbows

Posted on by Donna Snow

We are all familiar with rainbows and probably have seen many in our lifetime. But what is the biblical meaning of rainbows?

Sometimes, if we are fortunate, we can spot a double rainbow if we look closely. So what is the biblical meaning and significance of a rainbow and a secondary rainbow?

Contents

What is a Rainbow?
What Does the Bible Say About Rainbows?
When Does a Double Rainbow Occur?
Does the Bible Mention Double Rainbows?
Cultural Beliefs About Double Rainbows

What is a Rainbow?

The scientific explanation of a rainbow is simple. Rainbows are caused by reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light in water droplets resulting in a spectrum of light appearing in the sky. It takes the form of a multicolored circular arc. 

Rainbows caused by sunlight always appear in the section of the sky directly opposite the sun. Two elements are required for a single rainbow to appear: light and water. 

​The most common time for the appearance of a rainbow is right after a rainstorm. When the sun comes out after the storm is the best chance of spotting a primary rainbow.

What Does the Bible Say About Rainbows?

The first time a rainbow appears in Scripture is in the story of Noah.

God had caused a great flood to wipe out every living creature on the face of the Earth except for those safe aboard the ark. 

The biblical meaning of rainbows is precisely set forth in Genesis 9.

1. When the First Rainbow Appeared in the Bible

After spending approximately one year on the ark, God caused the waters to subside. Noah and his sons and their wives were finally able to disembark on dry land. That’s when God made a covenant with Noah.

“And God said, ‘This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.‘” (Genesis 9:12-13). 

God’s bow in the clouds is the visible reminder of God’s covenant with mankind. It is a symbol of hope to all living things that God’s promise is trustworthy.

2. Rainbows are God’s Holy Reminder

God does not have a faulty memory. However, mankind does. So rainbows are a sign of hope that the flooding we endure after a storm will never bring about an end to the physical world. 

“When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant that is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh. And the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh” (Genesis 9:14-15). 

God’s covenant does not mean that storms will never come. He simply sets a rainbow in the clouds as a powerful symbol and good omen of His unfailing love. And God has kept His covenant promise to us to this day.

3. Spiritual Significance of Rainbows

Different cultures around the world talk about various meanings of rainbows. Some believe a pot of gold waits at the end of the rainbow. Some believe that it is merely a natural phenomenon of mixing refracted light and water droplets.

However, Christians believe that a rainbow contains more than symbolic meanings. The biblical meaning of rainbows represents God’s covenant that the earth will never again be utterly destroyed by a flood. 

Rainbows represent better days ahead beyond the storms of life. It is not merely a symbol of God, but a message of God to His people for new beginnings despite our failures.

​The Book of Genesis, chapter 9, contains numerous Bible verses about rainbows and their meaning in the spiritual realm.

“When the bow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant that I have established between me and all flesh that is on the earth” (Genesis 9:16-17). 

When Does a Double Rainbow Occur?

According to the University of Wisconsin, the classic rainbow is a single, bright, colored arc. Red is the outermost color of this arc, and violet is always the innermost color.

On occasion, you may have seen two rainbows at once. The lower rainbow is the primary rainbow and the higher, fainter, colored arc is the secondary rainbow. The color sequence of the secondary rainbow is opposite to the primary; red is on the inside of the arc and violet on the outside.

The separation of colors is referred to as dispersion. Not only prisms but also water drops and ice crystals can cause dispersion. To form a rainbow you need large drops of water, the sun at your back and at the correct angle.

Raindrops act as prisms, bending and reflecting the sunlight that falls on them, just like a crystal hung in a sunny window.

Sometimes the light reflects twice off the back of the raindrop which leads to a secondary rainbow. The second reflection causes the order of the colors in the bow to reverse.

Does the Bible Mention Double Rainbows?

Though many theories exist about the spiritual meaning of the appearance of a double rainbow, a double rainbow is not mentioned in Scripture. 

Other than Genesis 9, the only other place where the Bible mentions rainbows is in the Book of Revelation.

“And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald” (Revelation 4:3). 

In Revelation 4:3, the rainbow is emblematic of the fact that, in the exercise of God’s absolute sovereignty and perfect counsels, He will remember His covenant concerning the earth. (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary, p. 505)

One other place in Revelation mentions a rainbow: “Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, wrapped in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head, and his face was like the sun, and his legs like pillars of fire” (Revelation 10:1). 

Here the rainbow rests upon the head of an angel who declares that “there shall be delay no longer” (Revelation 10:6) and suggests a connection with the scene in Revelation 4:3 that the mercy to be shown to the earth must be preceded by the execution of divine judgments upon the nations who defy God and His Christ. (Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary, p. 505)

Cultural Beliefs About Double Rainbows

Through the millennia, various cultures have connected rainbows to the spirit world. Ranging from symbols of hope to a sign of good fortune, a double rainbow served as a time to pause and notice the divine. 

1. Native American Cultures

Various Native American tribes ascribe different meanings to the natural phenomena of rainbows and double rainbows. 

The Navajo believe that the rainbow is a pathway between the physical and spiritual worlds, and is a sign of the Creator’s presence. This belief is perhaps the closest to the actual biblical meaning of rainbows.

In Lakota tradition, rainbows are considered to be the path of the spirit world, and they’re associated with the Thunder Beings, who they believe are powerful and benevolent beings. 

The Cherokee believe that the rainbow forms the hem of the sun’s coat. Isn’t that a beautiful imagery? The next time I see a rainbow, I will have to see if it looks like the sun’s hem.

“Warriors of the rainbow” is a prophecy told by many cultures including Cree, Navajo, Hopi, Salish, Zuni and the Cherokee. “There will come a day when people of all races, colors, and creeds will put aside their differences. They will come together in love, joining hands in unification, to heal the Earth and all her children. They will move over the Earth like a great Whirling Rainbow, bringing peace, understanding and healing everywhere they go.”

2. Mythology About Rainbows

The Irish tradition of a pot of gold at the end of every rainbow is certainly not the oldest rainbow myth, but it may be the most pervasive in Western culture. You’re almost certainly familiar with the particulars: a wealth of riches is stored at the end of every rainbow, which is carefully guarded by a leprechaun. 

In ancient Greek mythology, rainbows were the personification of the goddess Iris. She was a messenger in ancient Greece between Heaven and Earth, hence the representation of how the rainbow hangs between the two. In Homer’s epic the Iliad, Iris was a winged creature who specifically served as the messenger of Zeus. Her presence was always looked upon as a sign of hope.

In the Chinese culture, the dragon is synonymous with the rainbow as both dwell in the sky between heaven and earth. The word “hong” in Chinese means “rainbow,” and its character is drawn as a two-headed dragon with an arch in the middle that’s very reminiscent of a rainbow.

In Norse myth, Eddic Bifröst is a rainbow bridge built by gods, leading to their home in Asgard. Heimdallr, with his Gjallarhorn (“yelling horn”) stands guard at the place where the flaming rainbow bridge meets the clouds. 

Bottom Line

Despite mankind’s mythology and cultural lenses, a rainbow is not a sign of good luck or a directional signal about our love life. 

The Bible is clear. The biblical meaning of rainbows is that God alone creates them as an everlasting reminder of His covenant promise. They are a sign of God’s faithfulness to His people to never again destroy all living things with a devastating flood. 

There is not any spiritual meaning of a double or second rainbow, other than perhaps God simply wants to delight us.

So every time you see a rainbow, it is a beautiful reminder that God is still on His throne and His covenant promises stand firm for all eternity. And that is real life good news every single day.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. 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, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no cost to you.}

Best Pens and Supplies for Ultimate Bible Journaling

Posted on by Donna Snow

If you are new to Bible journaling, figuring out which are the best pens and markers to use can be a real challenge. You want the proper supplies to avoid tearing the thin pages and ink bleeding through. 

As a bona fide Bible nerd, I have searched over the years to find the best type of pens to use in my Bible. Bible study is my passion. There is rarely a day when I am not in the Word of God, whether for a short time or longer.

I love scribbling notes in my study Bible, writing on the side of the page, and highlighting relevant passages. It’s always instructive to read previous notes and decipher various art scribbles.

Contents

Quick History of Bible Journaling
What Pen is Best for Writing in the Bible?
What Pen is Best for Bible Underlining?
Will Gel Pens Bleed Through Bible Pages?
What Highlighters Will Not Bleed Through Bible Pages?
The Benefits of Bible Journaling

After years of trying different colors, gel highlighters, ballpoint pens (fine point, hard tip, gel ink, etc.), I embarked on a quest to find the best Bible pens to use on those thin Bible pages. Here we go!

Quick History of Bible Journaling

Even though Bible journaling may seem like the latest new craze, Bible historians started it centuries ago.

Before the invention of the printing press during the Middle Ages, Bibles were painstakingly replicated by hand starting with a blank page. 

Artists would often add hand-drawn illustrations. Not only were they beautiful, but the illustrations served to tell Bible stories to those who could not read Latin.

Bible journaling resurfaced in 1980 but took off like a rocket in 2014. A papercraft artist named Shanna Noel wrote a blog post showcasing her bright, colorful, artistic illustrations in her journaling Bible. 

Her example of using the wide margins for note-taking caught. In fact, she wrote a very helpful book called A Workbook Guide to Bible Journaling.

Bible journaling began with fervor. Every craft store began carrying every kind of pen and pen point size to choose from. It was the best thing since sliced bread.

What Pen is Best for Writing in the Bible?

My favorite pens to mark and underline Bible passages on those delicate Bible pages contain pigment inks. Pigment ink pens possess archival quality traits. Those are by far the best pens for Bible journaling.

For a long time now I have used the Pigma micron pens. It has the finest point and is fade-resistant, waterproof, quick drying, and results in minimal bleed-through on our thin Bible paper. 

Trust me, the type of pen you use matters to avoid obscuring the words. Here are the most readily available and common pigment-based pens:

They do not come in vibrant colors, yet these types of pens offer a variety of colors. They are more for actually writing notes in the margins and underlining than actual drawing or artwork. 

What Pen is Best for Bible Underlining?

My favorite supplies for underlining a Bible verse contain an extra fine tip so that words are not covered up. The best pens for Bible journaling using notes and underline are usually the same kind.

Soft tip pens with thicker lines only work in Bibles with wide margins. Bible markers found in a typical Bible study kit have a hard time providing the best use.

The Prismacolor Premier Illustration Markers (also containing pigment ink) have withstood the test of time in my Bibles.

I usually use black ink for underlining, but use a lot of pens in different colors to make notes or for coloring. That’s simply my personal preference. 

Will Gel Pens Bleed Through Bible Pages?

I am a huge gel pen fan. Tul pens are pretty much all I use when writing. However, after lots of trial and error, I have not found a gel ink pen that will not bleed through. 

Pigment ink pens are simply the best for hand lettering, thinner lines, or detailed drawings (visual faith). See list above.

I found a great display of Pigma Microns at my local arts and crafts store. They carried different ink colors and paint pens with various nib sizes (line width). 

For Bible journaling on those blank pages in the back of your Bible where you are not worried about obscuring words, I use the Tombow Dual Brush pens. They are brush tip water color pens that blend beautifully.

What is the Best NIB size?

The width of the writing or line you want to make is gauged by NIB sizes (head tip width). Here is a handy chart:

Nib Size    Width
0050.2 mm
010.25 mm
020.30 mm
030.35 mm
050.45 mm
080.50 mm

I have pens in all sizes, but discovered that the best nib pen size for note writing or underlining are 005, 01, and 02. The 03 can be used for underlining, but the tip is generally too wide for writing notes.

To save time, I prefer to write and underline using one size. Efficiency, baby! The vast majority of my black pigment pens are nib 005.

The bottom line is the best pens for Bible journaling are the ones that works best for you!

What Highlighters Will Not Bleed Through Bible Pages?

There is one amazing set of Bible highlighters that I recently discovered. As soon as I tried them I blurted aloud, “Where have you been all my life?” Hahaha.

A gift from a friend, I use the Mr. Pen Sleek highlighters in my Bible. They are perfect as they do not show through on the other side. They also don’t rub off onto the facing page. 

When first applied, the highlight does feel a little waxy, but the waxy feeling doesn’t stay. It took me a bit to realize that the pen bottoms twist to push more “crayon” up (like a mechanical pencil). 

At first, I didn’t think this was a feature of these pens because the bottoms were pretty resistant to twisting as the pens are slightly made. But I love this feature and I love these pens!

What are the Best Bible Pencils?

As a writer, I love school and office supplies. For full disclosure, I love the smell of freshly sharpened pencils! Most standard color pencils work in your Bible since it takes a lot for the color to seep through.

When I first started undertaking journaling for my Bible studies, I found that the best part was the new Bible journaling supplies. Simply put, I can color code various themes throughout Scripture, such as “love” throughout 1 John. 

You can find a fun supply store locally and peruse the aisles. Also, a great way to find the best Bible journaling supplies is to head online. Many stores ship nowadays.

The best colored pencils that I have found so far are Veritas and Arrtx. Be careful when ordering Arrtx to ensure you order pencils and not acrylic markers.

The Benefits of Bible Journaling

At this point, you may be wondering why you should even consider journaling or marking up your Bible. That’s a fair question! 

I used to believe that it was sacrilegious to write in a Bible. Some people still do. So regardless of identifying the best pens are for Bible journaling, why is it beneficial?

Over time, God has made it clear through His Word that knowing what the Bible says is paramount. That requires daily and intense study of its contents. And I do that best through copious notes, color-coding, and marking special passages. 

If you are new to studying the Bible, here are some helpful tips when it comes to marking your Bible.

reading and journaling

1. Identify Themes

It is very helpful to identify themes throughout different books of the Bible. A perfect example is contained in the epistle of 1 John, chapter 5. 

When you take the time to mark all of the instances where the word “love” appears, it is clear what that portion of Scripture emphasizes. 

Also, since I am not an artist, I chose an ESV Bible from my publisher that contains drawings that are ready to color. This particular verse emphasizes love, once again.

2. Notice Patterns

Throughout the Book of Esther, there is a literary device used called “chiastic structure.” 

A chiasm simply means a reversal of fortune. For instance, Esther grew up as an orphaned Jewish girl who became the Queen of Persia. Haman was the evil, prosperous second-in-command to King Ahasuerus who was killed for treason. 

By marking each instance of a reversal of fortune, it is clear that the hand of God was upon each circumstance. Even though God’s name is never mentioned in the Book of Esther, He is everywhere!

I wrote an entire Bible study on the Book of Esther called “Chosen” that you may find helpful. 

Bible study on Esther

3. Slow Down

I don’t know about you, but life flies by at a lightning pace. When I sit down to read Scripture, I want to retain what I read. 

When I take the time to identify and mark overarching themes it brings to mind similar themes throughout Scripture. 

When I mark, underline, or highlight patterns in my Bible, it helps me see the consistent, loving hand of God in every story.

​Bible journaling and noting significant insights in the margins is one of the best ways of remembering and applying what we read in those holy pages.

4. See How God is Moving

When I read that God enjoyed walking with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden in the cool of the day, it makes sense that Jesus loved walking with His disciples for three years.

God created us for community. When I notice and mark those places in my Bible where God fosters community it shows how He provides others to love with whom we walk life’s roads.

God is a God of rescue. When I see in Exodus how He rescued His people from slavery, then I see in the Gospels how Jesus rescued us from our sin on Calvary, I see a God who loves us more than we can possibly imagine. 

Taking time to mark significant events in your Bible brings to mind how God is consistently moving from the beginning of time to the end.  

5. Memorize Scripture

God clearly instructs in the Bible that we are to hide His Word in our hearts. That comes down to memorization which takes time.

When I want to commit a particular verse or passage to memory, I first highlight it in my Bible. Then I write in the margin why I am memorizing it.

Then I write that verse or passage on several index cards that I carry around with me. 

For instance, I went through a season where I needed to persevere through a certain circumstance. I bought a spiral of index cards and wrote “Perseverance” on the outside with a sharpie. Then I went through the entire Bible marking passages that encouraged me to persevere.

Where is God calling you to memorize from His Word today? Marking your Bible is a great way to get started. 

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About the Author
Although Donna is a sought-after Bible teacher and author, her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Go here to read 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, then visit her contact page here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}