A Messianic Prophecy in Isaiah

Today’s Bible reading* includes a familiar prophecy concerning the coming Messiah. It is often quoted around Christmastime. For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.Isaiah 9:6 (CSB)…

Elijah: A Man Like Us

In today’s Bible reading* we see Elijah do some pretty awesome things. But James tells us that Elijah was a man like we are. (James 5:17) Those are comforting words. But I’ve never seen anyone call down fire from heaven to consume a sacrifice. I’ve never seen anyone call down fire to destroy people. (2…

First, Ask What God’s Will Is

In today’s Bible reading* Ahab (evil king) and Jehoshaphat (good king) form an alliance. Ahab wants to go to war against Ramoth-gilead. Jehoshaphat agrees to join him in fighting, but he tells Ahab to first ask what God’s will is. All of the prophets told Ahab to go to war. But there was one hold-out…