Author: Dave Dishman (Page 29 of 390)

Years ago my wife and I experienced a home break-in. The thieves stole several items, including cash, my DayTimer organizer, and a new pair of running shoes. I guess they wore them to sprint away.

Along with carting off stuff, the thieves killed my outlook on living in a safe neighborhood, and destroyed my peace of mind. I slept by the door with a baseball bat for weeks. But that’s what thieves do—they steal, kill and destroy.

Jesus contrasted his way versus that of the brigand: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Notice the progression. The false shepherd employs our flesh and the ways of the world to lead us down a toilet of theft, murder and destruction. Contrast that with Jesus, through whom I experience overflowing goodness. Truly, an abundant life trails the good shepherd.

Seems easy when Jesus lays it out, but I must take an active role. Passive indifference gets me no closer to the life Jesus promised. I need to get off the couch and follow the good shepherd, or remain forever at the mercy of the thief.

John 10 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Bermix Studio

Several letters in the New Testament end with a doxology—which literally means “a speaking of glory.” We refer to a doxology as a hymn or reading used in Christian worship to glorify God. One of my favorites is found at the end of Jude:

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

This short letter from Jude warned the churches in his audience about grave error and false teachers perverting the grace of God. It’s a letter to ponder, to push us to give thought to our own churches and teachings today. But Jude closes his disturbing letter with a beautiful doxology—with a hope found only in God our Savior and Jesus Christ our Lord.

Jude’s doxology, worth looking upon again and again, reminds us that as our world grows darker, the Lord shines brighter than ever.

Jude in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Jordan Wozniak

In search of a strategic alliance against a rival, King Asa of Judah proposed a treaty with a former enemy. While the negotiations proved fruitful, Asa neglected to consult the Lord regarding his plans. Unfortunately, his decision led to a removal of the Lord’s favor and constant warfare during his reign.

The prophet Hanani confronted Asa, bringing this word: The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.

Perhaps out of pride or falling away, Asa purposely ignored the ways of God. In doing so, he removed himself from the curated ranks of those fully committed to the Lord. His decision (or more likely series of small decisions) harmed him and his entire nation.

While the Lord strengthens those with fully committed hearts, he does not promise to solve every problem, or make pain disappear, or cause others to love the wholehearted. Life may bring the opposite. However, in a stunning flourish God promises the toughness and durability to face whatever life dishes out.

Rest assured. If we stick with Him, He will stick with us.

2 Chronicles 16 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Aaron Burden

I read my Bible most every day. I read for insight, understanding and guidance. I also read because the text interests me. I believe the Bible carries words communicated by God through his people specifically for my good. With such a view, doesn’t it make sense to open the book regularly?

My first step is to pray this prayer found in Psalm 119: Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.

If I want to gain insight, I need the illumination of the Holy Spirit as I read (or listen to) the Holy Scriptures. Only God opens my spiritual eyes. Then, fitting hand in glove, the Holy Spirit gives life to what may at first seem a dry book of ancient thoughts.

It works. Over and over I start with a cup of coffee and a sleepy brain, then wonderful things emerge. This is a necessary prayer for anyone interested in the truth of the Scriptures, because the Lord helps those who want to find him.

Psalm 119 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by D A V I D S O N L U N A