Scripture: For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:5 ESV Observation: In this second chapter, Paul first expresses his desire to see the Colossians “knit together in love” and mature in their understanding of […]
Daily Focus: Praises of Triumph
Scripture: Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me! Take hold of shield and buckler and rise for my help! Draw the spear and javelin against my pursuers! Say to my soul, “I am your salvation!” Psalm 35:1-3 ESV Observation: In this prayer of deliverance, David petitions Yahweh to […]
Daily Focus: Staying on Track
Scripture: And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the […]
Daily Focus: Seeking the Needs of Others
Scripture: 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. Philippians 2:3-4 ESV Observation: This second chapter of Paul’s letter to the Philippian church builds on his proclamation: “to live is […]
Daily Focus: Take Nothing for Granted
Scripture: And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice and had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods. But he did not keep what the LORD commanded. 1 Kings 11:9-10 ESV Observation: Young […]
Daily Focus: Rock and Refuge
Scripture: In you, O LORD, do I take refuge; let me never be put to shame; in your righteousness deliver me! Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily! Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me! Psalm 31:1-2 ESV Observation: In this psalm of David, Israel’s king laments over his […]
