In today’s Bible reading* we come across Jesus’ parable of the sower and the seeds (Mark 4:3-9). It’s a familiar story for those of us who grew up going to church. We’ve heard it at least a million times, right? According to the parable, as the sower scattered the seed, some of the seed fell…
In today’s Bible reading* Jesus warns His listeners to beware of practicing their righteousness before people. In three sections, Jesus says that His followers should seek God’s approval for their good works, rather than the approval of people here and now. He says when you give… when you pray… and when you fast… don’t do…
In today’s Bible reading* we read about Jesus getting up first thing in the morning, to withdraw to a deserted place and prayed. (Mark 1:35) But it wasn’t just that He prayed. The Christian Standard Bible rightly translates the verb as, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went…
Today’s Bible reading* gives us an example of someone who was deeply committed to studying, obeying, and teaching God’s Word, Ezra the Priest and Scribe. Ezra traveled for four months to return home from his captivity in Babylon. (Ezra 7:9) The Christian Standard Study Bible gives us a little insight into Ezra’s journey: “Ezra’s journey…
Today’s Bible reading* gives us a peek into the issue of Spiritual Warfare. Daniel prayed and waited for an answer, trusting that God was hearing his prayers and would answer. He said to me, “Daniel, you are a man treasured by God. Understand the words that I’m saying to you. Stand on your feet, for…