Think of some of the most joyous moments of your life. Perhaps they include your wedding day, the birth of your children, or your favorite team becoming world champions. Great moments bring us great joy! Have you ever been so filled with joy that you danced? Not just a little happy dance, but an infectious kind of dancing. Fictionally, Ren McCormack inspired a small town to dance in “Footloose,” and Ferris Bueller sang, “Twist & Shout” causing the people of Chicago to dance. But historically, King David inspired the city of Jerusalem to dance because of his great joy in the Lord.

David is known for slaying the giant. He’s known for being a simple shepherd boy that God made King of Israel. He’s known for his passion, which is documented in his Psalms. At one time, his joyous passion led to dancing! When the Israelites brought the ark of the covenant back to Israel, 2 Samuel 6:14-15 tells us, “David was dancing before the Lord with all his might, while he and all Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of trumpets.” David danced…with all his might! Have you ever been so deeply on fire for God that you danced with everything you had, not caring who saw? Divine inspiration would be needed to experience joy at that level! Joy can derail anger, destroy sadness, and obliterate anxiety. But that doesn’t mean that it’s always easy to tap into.

Saturday night fun, city wide parades, and the return of the ark of the covenant are good reasons to dance, but this world also has trouble. Sometimes joy is hard to find. 1 Thessalonians 5:16 says, “rejoice always.” The verse is simple enough to memorize, but how am I supposed to rejoice when I’ve lost my job? How can I feel joy when my parents’ health is deteriorating? Am I supposed to rejoice when my marriage is failing? How can I be abundantly happy when the decisions of my grown kids don’t align with the teachings of Christ? How am I supposed to remain joyful when death strikes my closest family? These are all deeply personal and valid questions, making “rejoice always,” much easier said than done. So, how do we rejoice when the season we’re in is not one worth celebrating?

Psalm 51:12 is a very real prayer for joy amid despair. The same man who once had joy oozing from his bones and danced in his own city streets would go on to write, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” David lost his joy. His season of dancing was over. This verse acknowledges that God’s salvation was the source of his joy. Yet, his joy was gone, not because it was just another difficult season of his life, but because his sin was great. Bathsheba happened. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation.” Is it possible David’s joy was gone because he thought his salvation was gone? Did he think that God would forever turn his face from him, revoking his joy? Of course, we don’t know everything that was going through David’s heart and mind, but we do know that David would repent and God would forgive. However, he still had to live with the consequences of his sin. It took time for his joy to return because David’s sin led him away from God, the source of his joy.

There will be seasons of darkness in this life, however, neither our sin, nor our enemy, nor the world can take away the joy that the Creator freely gives to his creation. The world cannot steal what it didn’t provide. Like David, there could be times when we need God to grant us a willing spirit because the depth of our sadness has made our spirit unwilling. There will be times when we need God to sustain us because we are overwhelmed. But we can find joy because we serve a God who can answer those prayers of desperation. We find joy when we remember that the eternity we’re destined for will always be greater than the world we’re currently in. Joy might be buried under pain or consequence, but it’s always near because our salvation is always secure.

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Emotions like anger, fear, anxiety, and shame can bog us down, making us forget the joy we have in Christ. These emotions can be physically challenging, but they’re all temporary. Joy in the Lord is not! In John 16:22, just before his arrest, Jesus told his disciples, “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” No one will take away your joy. Jesus cares about your joy! He doesn’t promise an easy life for those who follow him. You may have endured some horrible wounds, hurt, or trauma. Joy might be hard to find in certain seasons of life. But for the one who is in Christ, joy can always be found when the truths of the gospel are remembered.

An angel told the shepherds in Luke 2:10, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” That good news and great joy is Jesus Christ! Paul tells us that one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit is joy, meaning there’s a joy we receive simply because the Holy Spirit lives within us. David knew God the Father as his joy, and expressed it emphatically in his Psalms. Every part of the Holy Trinity provides joy! Romans 14:17 tells us that “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” The kingdom of God is felt and experienced in this life when we remember our joy comes from the Lord.

All of this points to one sobering truth: Those who are not following Jesus do not have access to this kind of joy. The peak of their happiness will always be planted in something fleeting, whether that’s people, wealth, or some other form of worldliness. When those things leave them or let them down, their joy is gone, because they’ve placed their own happiness in the creation, rather than letting joy be given to them by the Creator. This is one of the many reasons why we must continue to tell the world about Jesus. The moment you accepted Christ as savior, God could have called you home to heaven. He didn’t. Instead, he covered you with the Holy Spirit and gave you a purpose to bring the kingdom of heaven to earth. It’s our Spirit-led joy that God uses us to bring the light of heaven into a dark world. Proverbs 10:28 says, “The hope of the righteous brings joy,” (ESV). The world needs to see men of God living joyfully because it’s contagious! And not just to non-believers, but even to other Christians. Live joyfully so that critics become curious. Live joyfully so that struggling Christians are encouraged. Live joyfully because there may come a time when you need a brother in Christ to remind you of the joy the Spirit brings.

Earthly pleasures and provisions bring happiness, but happiness isn’t joy. Joy is not rooted in money, possessions, or comfort. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit! Therefore, the truest form of joy lies in the supernatural. It’s found in the security we get from God alone. Romans 15:13 says, “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.” The One True God is one of hope. He gives joy and peace freely and abundantly so that we have the power to model his light. And while this light is for others, it can also be for ourselves.

The emotions we’ve looked at can all have challenging and negative impacts if we don’t address them, and respond, properly. Some seasons will have anger, fear, anxiety, or shame temporarily overpower joy. But joy is always there, even if you have to dig a little to find it. We can “rejoice always” because our salvation isn’t just a season. In happiness, we’re saved. When this fallen world puts us through a season of pain, we’re saved. When we’re stuck living with the consequences of our own sins, praise God, we’re still saved. We can “rejoice always” because once we are in Christ, our salvation is not conditional. By the grace of God, joy is the most consistent emotion we can have! It’s not fleeting, it’s not erratic, and it’s not a pipe dream. It’s real! It’s a gift from our great God, one we’ll have in this world and the next.

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These chapters really highlight the depth of Jesus’ teachings, as well as his boldness. What’s interesting is that we’ll read about a miracle while the Pharisees and Sadducees ask for one and are denied.

Chapter 15:

What’s New: Jesus quotes Exodus, saying, “For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death’” (v4). Notice, Jesus acknowledged that it was God the Father who said that cursing your father or mother is a death sentence. The reverence for parental honor and obedience is huge. It’s one of the Ten Commandments, and one of the few Biblical instructions for kids, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right” (Eph. 6:1). Why would God put so much emphasis on this? Because if you can’t honor your earthly parents, you’ll struggle to honor your heavenly Father.

Who is God: The Lord God is worth our exceptional efforts, but are we giving him our best? The Canaanite woman came from another town to get to him. She begged him to heal her daughter, and he initially said no (the time of miracles for the Gentiles had not yet come). But she kept pursuing, acknowledging that even his “crumbs” (scraps fallen from the Jews) were miraculous. He was impressed by her faith and healed her daughter. Later, when the time came to feed the 4,000 people, he said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat” (v32). They hadn’t eaten in days just so that they could be in his presence!

Today, we have 24/7 access to God through prayer and Spirit. How often are you willing to do the hard thing to get close him? Are you willing to get up earlier? Are you willing to say no to something fun in order to have adequate study time? Seeing people do hard things to experience Jesus highlights how often my own comfort keeps me distracted and at a distance from him.

Psalm 142: This psalm was written by David when he was in a cave, fleeing from his oppressor. Talk about doing a hard thing for the Lord! “I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble” (v2). God wants to hear from us. Prayer doesn’t have to always be polished, praising, or thankful. It can be honest, emotionally raw, and full of complaints. Usually, it’s the desperate prayers that lead us to finally surrender. That’s when God tends to move.

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Chapter 16:

What’s New: This chapter begins with the Pharisees and Sadducees asking Jesus to perform a sign from heaven. Jesus responds, “‘You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sing, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.’ Jesus then left them and went away” (v3-4). Logically, this brings up the question, what exactly is the sign of Jonah?

My initial thought was that this was related to Jonah being in the belly of a fish for three days compared to Jesus being in the tomb for three days. It’s actually different. There’s a longer explanation of the “sign of Jonah” in Luke 11. In this telling, the crowds are wanting Jesus to perform a sign and he says essentially the same thing as Matthew 15:4. However, Luke records an extra detail from Jesus, adding, “For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so also will the Son of Man be to this generation” (Luke 11:30). He adds, “The men of Ninevah will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and now something greater than Jonah is here” (Luke 11:32).

So, the “sign of Jonah” that Jesus mentions is a prophet coming to a sinful people preaching repentance. This is the only sign that the Pharisees and Sadducees will get. They want miracles, but Jesus wants them to turn away from their pride and wickedness. He even reminds them that the men of Ninevah repented and boldly adds that they will judge this generation that refuses to do so.

Who is God: “When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’” (v13). They gave some answers but then he asked a deeper question: “Who do you say I am?” (v15). This is the most important question that every human being must answer in their lifetime. Who do you say that Jesus is? He’s either Lord, a lunatic, or a liar.

Psalm 143: “For your name’s sake, Lord, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble” (v11). Why would God use his righteousness to get David out of trouble? Why would David ask the Lord to preserve his life “for your name’s sake”? Because David’s going to openly give all the glory to God when this situation is over. David’s not going to stop talking about, and glorifying, God. How often do we ask God to bail us out of something and then fail to give him the glory?

How has God helped you, saved you, or answered a prayer in the past? Remembering how God has been there in the past can help you remember that he’s still with you now, in whatever season of life you’re in. Additionally, remembering how he’s helped you in the past is a great starting point to sharing him with someone about him now.

Scripture Memorization: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24.

• God knows your heart even when you don’t. He knows your thoughts, even the ones you want hidden. Yet, he still wants to lead your sanctification.

• If you pray this, and he reveals some kind of offensive way within you, what will you do about it?

• Read this verse 10x from the page, out loud. Then recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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Matthew 13 and 14 contain some of the most well-known parables and miracles. As you read, be open to what the Spirit might be trying to reveal to you. What stands out among the familiar? God’s Word is deep! There are always new details to discover!

Chapter 13:

What’s New: In this chapter, Jesus gives the parable of the Sower, and the explanation of the different kinds of soil that people can represent (see verse 3-9 and 18-23). When he explains the parable, he says, “The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful” (v22). There’s an implication here that you can hear the word and still lack transformation. Worry and worldliness choke the Word of God out of a man’s heart.

How can that be possible? Excessive worry reveals a lack of trust in God. Worldliness is the opposite of God and his standards. A man who is wrapped up in both is certainly chasing some kind of sin. If he’s not a believer, he’s still dead in his sin. If he is a believer, the Spirit is grieved. Both can delay the “fruit” of the Word of God from being cultivated in his heart.

Who is God: God wants genuine followers, but he’s also quite aware of our weaknesses. Praise him for sending the Helper, the Holy Spirit to aid us! Like the parable of the Sower, sometimes we’ll worry. Sometimes the heart leans toward worldliness. With the help of God, however, sometimes we’ll produce fruit! While the work of spiritual growth is God’s, we have a role to play in taking wise steps, as continued sin delays the fruit.

Psalm 140: I recently heard pornography described in an interesting way: “A good trap is built to look like the opposite of a trap. It is built to look like something good, something desirable, something a man naturally wants. But a trap has one absolute weakness. It has no power over a man who can see it.” (“Men of Purity” by James Mercer).

In this psalm, David says, “The arrogant have hidden a snare for me; they have spread out the cords of their net and have set traps for me along my path” (v5). There’s no doubt that the enemy influences evil traps for the people of God. But like any trap, they pose no threat to the man who knows what he’s looking at. The Word of God helps us recognize spiritual evils. The closer you can get to God, whether it be through worship, obedience, prayer, Scripture, or anything else that feeds the Holy Spirit, the better you’ll be able to recognize the trap, and then simply walk around it.

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Chapter 14:

What’s New: So, you think you’re a tough guy? You’re not as tough as Jesus, and the small details in this chapter prove it. Jesus hears about the death of John the Baptist and “withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place” (v13). Jesus wants to grieve. However, “when Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick” (v14). How well do you deal with interruption? How well do you deal with the needs of your wife and children when you’re angry, upset, or even distraught? In his moment of deep sadness, Jesus was interrupted and had compassion on them. He then went to work and healed their sick.

This becomes the crowd of 5,000 that were miraculously fed. Evening approached, and Jesus sent his disciples to sail across the lake to the other side. Jesus dismissed the crowds, then “went up on a mountainside by himself to pray” (v23). Presumably, this is probably where he grieved for John. Verse 25 begins, “Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.” Jesus prayed all night! Have you ever stayed up all night praying? Have you ever stayed up all night for anything? That is physically impossible for me! Denying the flesh is one of the hardest parts of Christianity, but denying the flesh of sleep requires a strength I don’t think I’ve ever tried utilizing. As if that wasn’t enough, when Jesus and his disciples reached the other side of the lake, more people were waiting for him and his miraculous healing, so Jesus went back to work, again.

Who is God: C.S. Lewis wrote, “God is the ultimate masculine.” In this particular chapter, Jesus shows some of the depths of his toughness. But he uses it to help others. He uses it to spend valuable time with the Father. He self-sacrifices to serve others and strengthen his spirit. Jesus is modeling what it is to be a Godly man. Now, compare these things to what the world says a man should be regarding strength, toughness, and leadership. There’s a stark contrast between a man of the world and a disciple of Jesus.

Psalm 141: “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies” (v3-4). I like this passage because it reminds me that the heart and tongue are connected. Jesus said, “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” (Matt. 12:34). Both are worth guarding; both need divine help in guarding.

Scripture Memorization: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24.

-Sometimes we need God to reveal the darkness of our heart and mind to us. This honest prayer does that.

-This might not feel like a desirable thing you want from God. But it leads to sanctification. It’s also an opportunity to practice trusting that his grace is enough.

-Read this verse 10x out loud, from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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These two chapters together are great because we get both gentle Jesus and bold Jesus. Both sides reveal his meekness, as he demonstrates both soft compassion and fierce strength. The man of God has a spiritual sword, but do we always know when to swing it or sheath it?

Chapter 11:

What’s New: “When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’ Jesus replied, ‘Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor’” (v2-5). There are several new things I’m noticing in this one passage.

John sends his disciples to confirm if Jesus is the Messiah. Initially this may seem odd, but I don’t believe it’s coming from a place of faithlessness, but rather confirmation. At this point, John is in prison, meaning he’s already baptized Jesus. John 1:32 says that John the Baptist “gave this testimony: ‘I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him.’”

Something else interesting here is that Jesus doesn’t directly answer John’s disciples. Instead, he tells them to reflect and report on what they’ve seen. We now know that John’s disciples saw Jesus perform miracles. I think the reflection Jesus wants them to have forces them to examine the Scriptures about who the prophets said the Messiah would be, as well as ponder in their own hearts about Jesus’ divinity. Both would help solidify their own personal faith in the Messiah, rather than just hear him say, “Yes”.

Who is God: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (v28-30). Following God is not meant to be difficult, burdensome, or miserable. Christ has made it easy because he has done all the work! Salvation comes by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. But that’s not all!

Salvation is the end victory. Jesus also offers rest in this life. So, why do so many Christians still feel stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed? There are many reasons, but perhaps the biggest one is that they’re not seeking the presence of the Almighty. God’s peace comes when we tune out the world. The rest comes from HIM! How much time does the average Christian really spend with him? How much time do you spend in the Word and in worship and prayer? God wants it to be easy to find rest and salvation!

Remember: If Jesus’ yoke is easy and light, then no one else has authority to place burdensome yokes on you!

Psalm 138: Long before Jesus said that he was gentle and humble and that his yoke is easy and light, David understood. “Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar” (v6). The yoke of God can’t be heavy or overbearing, otherwise all of us “lowly” folk would never be able to carry it.

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Chapter 12:

What’s New: “Haven’t you read in the Law that the priests on Sabbath duty in the temple desecrate the Sabbath and yet are innocent? I tell you that something greater than the temple is here. If you had known what these words mean, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the innocent” (v5-7). What’s new today is that this is the second time Jesus has quoted the prophet Hosea to the Pharisees, saying, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice,” the first being in chapter 9:13.

They’re trying to stop Jesus from healing a man on the Sabbath because they think it breaks the Law. He points out that the priests break laws and desecrate the temple every Sabbath. He also boldly says, “If you had known what these words mean.” These are the religious leaders and experts in the Law! He’s pointing out how clueless they really are about God and his Law.

Who is God: I love bold Jesus! I love the verbal smackdown he puts on the religious leaders who need the correction. Have you noticed that he never talks to the sinners the way he talks to the “experts”? He’s always loving, compassionate, and gracious to the ones stuck in sin. He’s so bold and blunt to the leaders that numerous times they leave trying to find a way to kill him (v14). This shows the compassion he has for the sheep and the standard he has for the shepherd. The boldness only comes when the “shepherd” grows prideful and leads the sheep astray.

Psalm 139: “You have searched me Lord, and you know me” (v1). He knows us all whether we surrender to him or try and hide. In the context of Matthew 12, he knows both the Pharisees and man who wanted healing. Our own heart posture today makes us just like one or the other. Do you think you know better, or do you want healing?

Scripture Memorization: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”

-Salvation is not about what you did in his name. It’s about what he did. Works, even those done in the name of Jesus, don’t equal salvation. Only faith in him as the Savior and Son of God saves.

-This verse sparks fear in many Christians. Combat the fear by focusing on the second half, understanding the will of the Father. See John 6:40.

-Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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What would it be like to have every embarrassing moment erased from your memory? Would you feel relief? What if past mistakes no longer replayed and ruminated in your mind? Would you have peace? What if the rude, derogatory, and nasty words and actions that came out of you never did? No more secrets or regrets, no more hiding parts of yourself, no more lying to yourself or others, just completely shame free. What kind of weight would be lifted? For a time, Adam and Eve lived this way. Genesis 2:25 says, “Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.” They were in the Garden of Eden, living with God. They had everything they needed. They were carefree physically, spiritually, and emotionally. But then came the fall. Sin entered, and brought with it new, and vastly different, emotions. The very first one being shame.

After the fall, God called out for Adam, asking, “Where are you?” (Genesis 3:9). Adam and Eve heard God coming and hid. For the first time, humanity was experiencing shame. Not because God changed, but because they had. Shame was never a part of God’s design. His original plan for all of us was to live in his presence, completely unashamed. Consequently, sin disrupts good plans; sin changes things. Shame is the guilt of an unholy action, and it enters our own lives the same way it entered Adam and Eve’s, through rebellion.

The enemy pounces on man’s instinct to hide from God after he’s sinned. Satan is a master at taking shame from an emotion or feeling to a weight that is worn. He wants it to feel so heavy that we believe it’s unforgiveable. He points the finger and launches his accusations. However, he also lies. Satan knows our sin is covered, forgiven, and paid for. He also knows that the Holy wrath awaiting him, does not loom on the horizon for those who are in Christ. He hates this. He lacks the power and authority to legitimately condemn humanity himself, so he capitalizes on shame, causing us to condemn ourselves. Shame is one of the enemy’s most powerful tactics to keep Christian men down.

King David knew what it was to be a man of God and make mistakes that were completely out of character. But unlike Adam, he didn’t hide from God, he ran toward him, writing in Psalm 32:5, “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.” David wrote this after his affair with Bathsheba, when he was riddled with shame. Despite his massive misstep, his sins were forgiven. But in a testament to his goodness, God took it one step further, forgiving the guilt of his sin, and removing the weight of shame that David was wearing. Psalm 32 is one of the seven “Psalms of Repentance.” David was familiar with turning to the Lord in the midst of his shame. Because of this, he also became familiar with God’s forgiveness and restoration, proving that there are no good things to be found when we hide from the one who is full of goodness!

When I feel shame it’s because I’ve acted in a way that is not indicative of the God-honoring man I desire to be. Shame has produced seasons in my life when I was unable to simply let Jesus love me as I was. I was unwilling to accept his forgiveness because I was unwilling to forgive myself. This caused me to set limits on what I thought the blood of Jesus should, and should not, cover. The mistakes felt too big to forgive, as if I didn’t deserve to have his blood cover my sins. So, I condemned myself. I could hear the enemy’s deception, “You don’t deserve to be free of this shame, so how can you let him freely take it?” “What you did was far from how a Christian man acts. Why should Jesus take the punishment for this?” “Why should grace be extended to you?”

It took a great deal of time, but eventually, the lies I believed began to put the sacrifice of Jesus into perspective. He forgave me when I couldn’t forgive myself. I may not deserve to have his blood cover me, but Jesus let it spill anyway. The saving power of his blood is unlimited. My past, present, and even future mistakes are not greater than his holiness. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” It’s a depth of love that still bewilders me. On this side of eternity, sinful nature will forever be a staple of humanity. But because of Christ, that doesn’t mean I must always wear my shame like an unholy robe.

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Turning to God in our shame is where real healing and freedom lies. Proverbs 28:13 says, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” Concealing sin and shame has caused me to hide from God. It also made me hide from people. I’d rather carry the burdens of my shameful actions myself, than come clean and hurt someone else in the process. Admitting shame is scary. The judgments surrounding shameful acts are often perceived to be severe. Loved ones might say, “How could you do something like this?”, or “You are not the man I thought you were”. My actions might be old, from a version of myself that I no longer am, but admitting them now can create new wounds in people today. That’s why confession requires the right Godly men by your side.

Freedom from shame lies in confession, but also in a response of love. The right men can help provide this. When the time came for me to admit some shameful things, I was surrounded by men who were loving, encouraging, supportive, and non-judgmental. The enemy, however, doesn’t want you to bring these kinds of things out into the light. He doesn’t want you to experience love as a result. He will encourage you to lie to yourself and others to try and hide it. Jesus says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” If the truth of God’s Word instructs that confession leads to freedom and mercy, doesn’t that prove that attempts to conceal and hide your shame are encouraged by the thief who’s trying to kill and destroy you? Can you see that the love and support of Godly men and Christ himself will bring about the true forgiveness, freedom, and life you’re seeking? Healing is what Satan is trying to steal from you.

Romans 10:11 says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” Let this truth bring you relief. Jesus will never put the weight of shame on those who have put their faith in him because he’s already endured the shame of the cross. Honest men who are trying to emulate Christ will understand and follow this verse as well. Feeling the guilt and regret of sin is proof the Holy Spirit lives within you. But the Spirit’s conviction is not shameful, it’s meant to lovingly encourage repentance. Jesus doesn’t see your mistakes and then take a step back, the Father hasn’t changed his mind about your salvation, and the Holy Spirit hasn’t left you. You are firmly in his hand, engulfed in grace and love. The confession of shame brings freedom, but it also strengthens your relationship with the Holy God who loves you.

All emotions are internal alarms trying to tell us something. Shame is the one that rings the loudest. Suppressing it prevents us from living a flourishing Christian life because it creates separation between us and our good provider. It makes us want to hide, rather than seek God to receive forgiveness. Maybe you’ve buried the memories of shameful actions so deep, that you’ve come to believe those mistakes never really happened. Psalm 32:1-2 says, “Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them.” We are blessed because Jesus already bore the punishment of our shame inducing actions. Our truest self was created to be free of shame. When Adam and Eve were hiding, God was looking for them, still searching, and desiring their presence. If shame has you hiding from God, know he still seeks you. Not to punish, but to extend love, forgiveness, and grace. The Father’s arms are still open. Let him remove the weight.

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Jesus’ ministry is now in full swing, as he and his disciples are traveling from town to town, teaching and performing miracles (v35). The division begins among the Jews of the day. Some of the hard teachings we’ll read still create division today.

Chapter 9:

What’s New: There’s an interesting underlying theme in this chapter regarding pride vs. surrender. On one hand, you’ve got the Pharisees who see Jesus eating with sinners, asking, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” (v11). He responds, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners” (v12-13). As they pridefully look down on the “sick”, Jesus points out their own self-righteousness and tells them to learn what “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” means. He’s telling the religious leaders to go back and read the scroll of Hosea (the material they claim to be experts in!) since they think they’re so righteous!

The surrender comes only a few verses later from another Jewish leader. “A synagogue leader came and knelt before him and said, ‘My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live’” (v18). There was nothing this father could do but surrender. Notice his faith, not for healing, but full resurrection. His daughter has already died. This level of surrender led to one of only three instances of Jesus raising someone from the dead (not including himself).

There are other examples of surrender in this chapter. But as we progress in this gospel, the prideful and humble hearts will continue to be evident just by the words we read.

Who is God: God has compassion for the lost, but he wants the found to work and guide them. “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he 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’” (v36-38).

Every corner of the earth is part of God’s “harvest field” and there are plenty of sheep wandering without a shepherd. We are the workers because we have been blessed to have already found the shepherd. This work is our purpose and commission, declared by the resurrected Jesus: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19).

Psalm 136: There’s a theme in this unique psalm, perhaps you picked up on it…“His love endures forever” (v1-26). Not his mighty power, even though it does. Not is mercy, even though it does. This psalm, inspired by the Spirit of God, specifically wants you to know that his love, for you, endures forever.

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Chapter 10:

What’s New: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell” (v28). While this overall verse is not new, Christ’s implication of both the body and soul being in hell is what’s new to me today. The suffering of hell is real, and here, it seems Jesus is saying that the final punishment of hell will include both body and soul.

In the Bible, hell is described both literally and metaphorically. Metaphors do not compromise the reality of hell. Rather, they declare the reality is fuller and worse than one can put into words. We must also acknowledge that it is not God who sends people to this torment. It is an individual’s own rejection of Christ’s payment that does so. God created us to be in paradise with him. Our sin rejected that. God created a way for everyone to get back to him, through the atoning payment of his Son, Jesus. To reject Jesus is to reject the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life. “Whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them” (John 3:36).

Who is God: There is a difference between saying, “God is good,” and “Jesus is Lord.” And the name of Jesus divides. “God is good” does not spark as much division because someone’s “god” can be anything or anyone. But start invoking the name of Jesus, and that’s when people begin to have a real problem because that’s the only name Satan is powerless against.

“You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved” (v22). Jesus also adds, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword” (v34). Why does Jesus spark such division? Because he’s not making peace with evil. He’s destroying it. Those that hate the name of Jesus love the darkness.

Psalm 137: A psalm written after the fall of Jerusalem to Babylon. It’s full of deep sadness, mockery, and horrors that are almost too bad to speak of (v9). Having studied Isaiah and the lesser prophets earlier this year, it’s interesting to read this psalm. While it’s hard to read, and only human to feel sorry for them, our previous studies showed that God gave them many, many chances throughout multiple generations to repent and turn back to him.

Scripture Memorization: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21

• This is not a verse to fear! Instead, let it push you to learn what the will of the Father is! Begin with John 6:40, then see what else you can find in Scripture.

• Many Christians fear this verse, which ultimately causes them to forget the security of their salvation in Christ Jesus. The enemy loves a fearful Christian.

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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Chapter seven gives us the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, which takes a deep dive into wisdom. Chapter eight begins, “When Jesus came down from the mountain side” (v1) meaning he’s immediately performing miracles after his sermon. What new details stand out to you?

Chapter 7:

What’s New: “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them” (v15-16). The Christian is called to beware of those teaching false doctrine. How do we know if the teachings we’re hearing from the pulpit are true or false? By doing exactly what we’re doing here, reading the Word for ourselves.

You’re incapable of guarding against false prophets if you don’t read the Word on your own. You will be unable to see past the “sheep’s clothing” if you can’t hold them to the Scriptures. You won’t discern the “fruit” of their words and lives if you don’t know what the fruits of following the Father, Son, and Spirit are. This chapter is full of guidelines into wisdom, and this verse reveals the dangers of bad doctrine. Weighing the Scriptures to the one who’s teaching you will either help your faith and understanding, or make you discover a pitfall.

Who is God: God wants his people to live wisely. “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundations on the rock” (v24-25). The Word of God, faith in Jesus, and the fruits of the Spirit are the foundation for your life. Storms will come. Some will “beat against” you. But practicing what he says, and then trusting in him, will ensure that your foundation will never fall.

Psalm 134: Many years ago, I had a discussion with a brother in Christ who asked me, “Why do people raise their hands in the air to worship God?” I was new in my faith, so I didn’t really have an answer. He didn’t have an answer either, but perhaps it comes from this psalm. “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord” (v2). This is worship! This is submission! This is praising the Lord!

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Chapter 8:

What’s New: “When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. ‘Lord,’ he said, ‘my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly’” (v5-6). It’s easy to overlook, but a centurion, a Roman soldier, just called Jesus “Lord” and asked for a miracle. This shows an incredible display of boldness and faith.

It makes me wonder, what did the centurion hear or see from Jesus that made him recognize his Godliness? Something made him believe. The boldness to ask seemingly came from the desperation of a sick servant, whom he cared deeply about. But to call Jesus “Lord,” as a soldier of Rome is huge. This would have led to a death sentence if the wrong Romans heard him. He’s risking his life for the life of a family servant. Knowing the historical brutality of the Romans, I’m not sure this kind of self-risking sacrifice would be a norm within the hearts of Roman soldiers. That little word, “Lord” shows not only his faith in the Son of God, but also a heart change.

Who is God: This chapter has many physical healings. The man with leprosy (v2), the centurion’s servant (v13), and the two demon possessed men (v32). These miracles show us that God cares about our physical well-being. However, he cares more for our spiritual health. After healing the man with leprosy, he tells him to “offer the gift Moses commanded” (v4) because he cares about the Law. When the centurion asks for a miracle, Jesus replies, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith” (v10). When the disciples think they’re going to drown in the storm, Jesus says, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” (v26). All of these point to his concern for people’s faith and honor toward God, thus, his concern for our spiritual health.

Psalm 135: “The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them” (v15-18). As I read this, I only had one thought: Are we still crafting idols today? Perhaps through A.I.? Seems a lot of people are trusting in it. There’s certainly something to reflect on here, as there’s nothing new under the sun.

Scripture Memorization: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 7:21.

- There is perhaps no verse that strikes as much fear in the hearts of Christians as this one. But look carefully. The one who “does the will of my Father” will enter the kingdom of heaven.

- So, what’s the will of the Father? We just memorized this verse two weeks ago! Revisit John 6:40.

- Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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These chapters contain the most famous sermon ever preached, The Sermon on the Mount. Just as Jesus used this sermon to teach his disciples and the crowds of people, it still teaches us today. An interesting fact: Ghandi read The Beatitudes in chapter five, two times a day for forty years!

Chapter 5:

What’s New: “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (v42). There’s a connection here to being “the light of the world” (v14). I also feel a conviction here because I like to go about my own business. As digital media advances, human connection decreases. I’m certainly guilty of that as much as anyone. But these verses really highlight that the Christian life is to be full of relationship and generosity.

Who is God: In this chapter you will read many times, “You have heard it said…but I tell you…” God’s ways are higher than man’s. Here, Jesus challenges the norms of the people and calls them to a higher way of living. These are the teachings of God, and they’re meant to challenge our heart and mind. These are the teachings that sanctify and bring us into a closer alignment with God, if we let them. They will make us more Christ-like if we follow them. However, they’ll also reveal the heart if we choose to ignore and disagree with them.

Psalm 132: Speaking of David, “He swore an oath to the Lord, he made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob: ‘I will not enter my house or go to bed, I will allow no sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, till I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob’” (v2-5). David vowed not to rest until he had a place set up to worship the Lord; a place that honored God. What is the thing that you can push aside until God gets the praise that’s due him? Can you make sure you don’t go to bed until Scripture has been read and prayers have been prayed? Can you push breakfast back to spend time with God first? David made a vow to God. Perhaps we don’t make too many vows to God himself because, deep down, we have no intention of keeping them.

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Chapter 6:

What’s New: Many people love verse 33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” While this verse is not new to me, it sparked a question that is: For those that love this verse, and those who may be discovering it for the first time, do they realize what “all these things will be given to you” refers to? To figure that out, we need to read this passage backward.

Jesus says, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” (v25). He adds, “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” (v31-33). “These things” are necessities like food, water, and clothing. It’s not luxuries, amenities, or riches.

In fact, if we look back further, we’ll read Jesus’ warnings about such things. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth” (v19). “You cannot serve both God and money” (v24). For those that think verse 33 is about an earthly reward for seeking first the kingdom of God are only seeking a kingdom of their own, and are neglecting the other aspect of that verse, the seeking of his righteousness.

Who is God: God wants an intimate relationship with his people. The first half of this chapter is about doing things “in secret,” between only you and the Father. It starts with your giving. “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others” (v1). “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets as the hypocrites do” (v2). “Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (v4).

It continues with prayer (v5-6) and fasting (v17-18). All of these things are initially done to honor God, but humans have a way of making giving, prayer, and bodily care prideful. When these kinds of things become “showy”, we’re no longer honoring God, but rather ourselves.

Psalm 133: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (v1). The body of believers, operating in unity, is God’s desire. Jesus even prays for the unity of all believers when he’s in the Garden of Gethsemane, saying, “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message (their = the apostles), that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:20-21). But when I think of the typical American Christian and church scene, I’m not sure “united” is the first word I’d use to describe it. When that’s the case, something isn’t lined up with the Word of God.

Scripture Memorization: “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Matthew 3:8.

• Like giving, prayer, and fasting, repentance is another thing we do to honor God. It just also happens to have great benefits for us physically, mentally, and spiritually.

• Repentance is often difficult. Our hearts make it a grind and a challenge. But keeping with it gives space for the Holy Spirit to work, producing the fruit in our lives.

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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“It starts as a series of intrusive thoughts that just circle and spiral down till my heart is pounding and my chest hurts, sometimes I think I’m having a heart attack. I’m my own worst critic, my mind is usually replaying an event where I’ve done something wrong or made a mistake. As I’m starting to understand the anxiety, it seems to come from a fear that I’ll be found incompetent or unworthy.”

– Man of God, Anxiety Sufferer

“Anxiety feels like being in the middle of a flat field with nothing around watching a strong storm approaching. I don’t know when the storm will come, or even if it will because it might shift. But I expect it to come. It’s just a matter of time and I have nowhere to take shelter.”

– Man of God, Anxiety Sufferer

“A tire stuck in the mud spins faster and faster without getting any traction. Anxiety is like that for me. My brain feels like it’s spinning in circles as I try to process work, deadlines, home life, and the needs of my wife and children. Sometimes I can shut it down, but other times I ‘crash’ into a full-blown panic.”

– Man of God, Anxiety Sufferer

“Therefore I am all the more eager to send him (Epaphroditus), so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety,” Philippians 2:28, parenthesis and italics added.

– Paul, Apostle of Jesus Christ, Anxiety Sufferer

“‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’ An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground,” Luke 22:42-44, italics added.

– Jesus Christ, God-Man, Sufferer of Emotional Anguish.

The first three quotes are from real Christian men who experience anxiety. The Apostle Paul, who wrote 13 books of the New Testament, also admits to feeling anxiety. Jesus, while praying to the Father in the Garden of Gethsemane for the final time before his arrest and crucifixion, was…in anguish. Knowing his purpose for leaving his throne in heaven, and being fully aware of every Old Testament prophecy he had already fulfilled, Jesus still asked the Father to make another way. Yet, scripture doesn’t use the term “anxiety” to describe him in this moment. Initially, this may feel disheartening or puzzling, as if there’s an element of humanity that Jesus doesn’t relate to. If ever there was a time we could understand Jesus feeling anxious, certainly this is it! We’re left wrestling with the question, did Jesus experience anxiety? Are we alone with our anxious thoughts and feelings? To better grasp this, we need to understand what anxiety is, and what it’s not.

King David wrote in Psalm 139:23, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” It’s another example of a man of God who admittedly experiences anxiety. The Hebrew word David uses for anxiety is “Charada.” It’s also used to describe a trembling fear. The Greek word for anxiety that Paul uses in the New Testament is “Merimnao”. It refers to being troubled or worried. Therefore, from a biblical standpoint, we can conclude that there are connections between anxiety and fear and worry. While this is good information, and it may bring some peace, we’re still left with the question of did Jesus experience anxiety? If he didn’t, how is that possible and why would that be important? Before we can fully get our answer, we also need the worldly understanding of what anxiety is.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) says that all anxiety stems from underlying negative thinking patterns. This means anxiety can be overly focused on the negative, discrediting the positives, involves jumping to worst case scenarios, and “Yeah, but” statements. Anxiety also consists of dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about potential futures. Any of this sound familiar? Do you ever turn on the news and see something negative? Do you know someone who always has an excuse for everything? Do you worry how past mistakes might be preventing you from current success, or impacting your families future? It’s no wonder humanity has an anxiety epidemic. Negativity is everywhere. But that’s not Jesus. No one could read the gospels and realistically think that he focused on negatives, jumped to worst case scenarios, or worried about things he’d done in the past. While it is accurate concerning what we see and experience today, this worldly definition of anxiety doesn’t line up with the qualities and characteristics of the Jesus we read about in scripture.

Moments before his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, did an internal struggle create a physiological change in Jesus? Yes, Luke tells us in his anguish he was sweating profusely. But that’s not anxiety. Did he dread his future? Yes, he asked the Father to make another way and take this cup from him. But that’s not quite anxiety either. Anxiety is not just perspiration or the distress of what’s to come. While the Greek word for anxiety, “Merimnao” refers to fear and worry, it focuses on worldly matters like food, money, and future provisions or situations. It comes from worldly concerns, not the concerns of God. Anxiety is of the world, and Jesus overcame the world. He was not fixated on finances, what people thought of him, or even his own personal safety. Jesus’ only motivation was accomplishing the will of the Father. That didn’t change in Gethsemane. So, did Jesus experience anxiety? Because it’s so deeply connected in the worries of the world, it’s my personal opinion that no, Jesus did not suffer from anxiety. But that’s great news!

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Jesus not experiencing anxiety shouldn’t leave you feeling defeated, depressed, or disheartened. It’s the greatest answer we could come to. Anxiety could not overtake him, which means he can fully take on all of yours. Yet, that doesn’t mean you’re alone in what you’re feeling while wrestling with anxiety. Jesus experienced the human condition. Luke says he felt “anguish”. The Greek word being “Agonia,” meaning a deep struggle, contest, or intense striving. He felt the anguish, but still said, “yet, not my will, but yours be done.” When sweat poured off of him like blood, he still trusted the Father. He asked for another way, but he had a greater desire to carry out the Father’s plan. More often than not, anxiety grows from our view of the world or ourselves. “How will I..” “What if they…” “I can’t believe I…” In his anguish, Jesus kept his focus on the Father. Jesus modeled the most underrated antidote to anxiety. It’s not looking outwardly at the world or within ourselves, but remembering to look up.

The Bible includes numerous references to anxiety because humans have been battling with it for thousands of years. It’s just one aspect of the internal war between the flesh and the spirit. It’s similar to lust, greed, or unforgiveness. Anxiety is a fleshly response that can separate us from God, but it doesn’t have to. Men of the bible experienced anxiety and the Holy Spirit used it in divinely inspired scriptures. Therefore, God wants us to learn from those men and lean on him and his word to overcome anxious moments.

1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” This requires prayer, open conversation with him about what your anxiousness entails, and then inviting Jesus into it. You get to cast it all on Christ simply because you are his beloved son. If your anxiety comes from consistent negativity, Philippians 4:6 tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Science has actually proven this verse. It’s impossible to experience anxiety and thankfulness at the same time because anxiety and gratitude come from the same part of the brain. Calm the negativity by remembering what you’re thankful for. Maybe your anxiety originates from worrying about the future. Jesus said in Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Focus on today. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. You can give him your anxiety because he already knows your future and it’s securely in his hand. He knows exactly what future challenges and situations you may be anxious about, and he already knows how to work them out for your good.

Psalm 94:18-19 offers comfort: “When I said, ‘My foot is slipping’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When my anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” When anxiety is overwhelming, the Lord comforts and consoles. He doesn’t shame, judge, or condemn. The author of Psalm 94 is unknown. However, we know he felt anxiety, and that he experienced the comfort of The Lord when he ran toward God in his own internal storm. When David wrote, “Know my anxious thoughts,” he also said, “Search me, God, and know me”. He invited God into his heart and mind during the anxiety. When Jesus was full of anguish, he continued to pray for the Father’s will to be done. Anxiety isn’t the reason to run away from the Lord, it’s precisely the reason to draw close to him.

A.W. Tozer said, “When I understand that everything happening to me is to make me more Christlike, it resolves a great deal of anxiety.” (Another man of God experiencing anxiety.) Anxiety doesn’t make you broken and it doesn’t mean that something is wrong with you. It doesn’t mean you’re a bad Christian or that you’re all alone. It means you’re human and need a savior. Anxiety is a battle that can cripple, derail, and overwhelm if you try and fight it alone. Or it can be the storm that pushes you closer to Christ. Like anger and fear, finding peace among the anxiety lies in seeking Christ when it feels overwhelming. Jesus conquered anxiety, that’s exactly how you can trust that he’ll take all of yours.

Anxiety can be severe. The ADAA has many additional recommendations for fighting anxiety, (therapy, medication, certain lifestyle changes, etc.) and can help you get connected with professionals in your area. If the anxiety you feel is severe or paralyzing, professional help is available. Please visit www.adaa.org.

*For those men who were vulnerable and shared how they experience anxiety, you know who you are, and I thank you immensely! Your openness is showing other men with the same battle that they are not alone. You are not alone either. You are seen. You are loved.

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These chapters give us the earliest looks into Jesus’ ministry. Luke is the only other gospel that has early details like these, so I encourage you, don’t skim or skip through these chapters too quickly. Sit with them, learn about Jesus, as these details are not found in every gospel.

Chapter 3:

What’s New: I’ve read this gospel many times, and this is the first time I’ve really noticed John the Baptist’s holy fruits of the Spirit. “People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River” (v5-6). John was learning the sins of all the people of the region. That has a weight to it. Yet, instead of judgment and condemnation, he baptized them “with water for repentance” (v11). Through his teachings of repentance, as he’s preparing the way for the Lord, he’s helping the people repent and turn away from their sin.

“But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?’” (v7). This is the same language Jesus would use when rebuking the Pharisees. So, in this short passage, we’re seeing both the compassion of John for the sinner and the boldness to rebuke the prideful religious leaders leading the people astray.

Who is God: God is a trinity, and at the end of this chapter, we get a moment where all three of them are together. “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased,’” (v16-17).

At Jesus’ baptism, is of course, the Son. Visible (at least to Jesus) is the Spirit of God descending upon him. Audibly, the voice of the Father, proclaiming Jesus as his Son. Father, Son, and Spirit, all different, all present, yet all equally God.

Psalm 130: “If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you” (v3-4). Where would any of us be without God’s forgiveness? Well, we wouldn’t be able to serve. We wouldn’t be able to find the peace that lies in the shadow of the Almighty. What a blessing it is to have no record of sins through the name and blood of Jesus!

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Chapter 4:

What’s New: Jesus is tempted by Satan when he’s physically at his weakest, having fasted for 40 days. Satan encourages him to turn stones to bread, offers him all the worldly kingdoms, and even tries to use Scripture (without deceitfully twisting it) to tempt Jesus into using his divinity for selfish purposes. Satan, of course, fails as Jesus combats his temptations with Scripture. What’s new today is that the Scriptures Jesus uses to counter Satan’s lies are not that difficult to learn and memorize. None of them require extensive practice to write on the heart.

“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word the comes from the mouth of God” (v4, quoting Deut. 8:3). “Do not put the Lord your God to the test” (v7, quoting Deut. 6:16). “Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only” (v10, quoting Deut. 6:13). Length wise, these verses are right on par with what we learn weekly in our Scripture Memorization. And we have the blessing of tapping into the New Testament as well! Memorizing and reflecting on Scripture is a spiritual practice and discipline. And in Matthew 4, we see that even simple verses have truth that counter the enemy’s lies.

Who is God: God has good things for those who are willing to step out in faith and follow him boldly. Walking beside the Sea of Galilee, Jesus find Simon and Andrew. He simply says, “Come, follow me” (v19). “At once they left their nets and followed him” (v20). Later he finds James and John, “Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him” (v21-22). These men left their careers. They left what would have been an inherited family business. They left their identities.

Now, Jesus is not calling every man to quit his job and leave his family behind. But he is calling you to leave something behind to follow him. Maybe it’s your past. Maybe it’s an addiction. Maybe it’s distractions, bad habits, or poor mentalities. He’s calling everyone to follow him. What can you leave behind to boldly follow him into new depths?

Psalm 131: A short psalm, but one line stands out: “I have calmed and quieted myself” (v2). Like our Scripture memorization, meditating on God, seeking the peace that comes from his presence is also a spiritual practice. Do you ever calm and quiet yourself to find his peace? God tells us, “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). His timing is often far longer than what we want. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. Our busyness and chaotic schedules are not from God. He wants us to slow down; to seek calm and quiet yourself. This is something you have to do yourself. He cannot do this for you. However, he will certainly meet you in the quiet.

Scripture Memorization: “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Matthew 3:8.

• As we study these gospels, if you’re someone who likes to highlight or make notes in your Bible, I encourage you to underline or highlight every time you read the word repent/repentance.

• Do you think today’s Christian focuses more on grace or repentance? Why would undermining the importance of repentance be a bad thing?

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

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Today we begin a study of the most famous books of the Bible, the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. If you’ve been following our studies for a while, you probably remember a previous study on the gospels early in 2025. It’s important to continue to dive into books of the Bible that you’ve already read. God’s Word is constantly revealing new things due to its own divine depths, but also according to the seasons you may be going through. The Holy Spirit’s work is never done and there’s always more we can learn about the God-man, Christ Jesus.

Chapter 1:

What’s New: Since we just spent the last few months reading through the minor prophets, several names are standing out to me in Jesus’ genealogy surrounding the time of the Babylonian exile: Amon and his son, Josiah, as well as Zerubbabel.

When we read the book of Zephaniah it says that the word of the Lord came to the prophet Zephaniah during the reign of Josiah, son of Amon. Josiah was only 8 years old when he became king of Judah and was known for reintroducing the law of Moses back to the Israelites when his father and grandfather had massively led the people away from God. Now we see that Jesus was a descendant of these former kings. However, at the time of the Babylonian exile, Josiah is no longer a boy, but a father to “Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon” (v11). As a father myself, I can’t imagine the grief Josiah must have felt watching his children become Babylonian captives.

The name Zerubbabel also stands out, as the prophets Haggai and Zechariah gave him instructions from the Lord to rebuild the temple. While there are certainly names in Jesus’ lineage that stand out like Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon, names like Josiah and Zerubbabel are less known, perhaps only because of a lack of Biblical study. It was solely our study of the minor prophets that highlighted these names this time around in my reading of Matthew. New things can be discovered in the Bible all the time. Not because the Scriptures have changed, but because we have.

Who is God: Sometimes God’s timing is so perfect that it’s hard to believe. The genealogy ends saying, “Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah. In Jewish numerology, the number seven shows a perfect completeness. Because God created the physical universe in six days and rested on the seventh (Shabbat), seven represents the ultimate culmination, sanctification, and peace of a complete cycle. Therefore, there were two perfect genealogical cycles from Abraham to David, two from David to exile, and two more perfect sevens from the exile to Christ’s arrival.

Psalm 128: “Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours” (v1-2). Obedience leads to blessing, but there’s also an acknowledgment that obedience can feel like labor. It’s not easy, but the Father knows that, which is why he sent his son to forgive our sinful shortcomings, as well as his Spirit to guide, strengthen, and help us.

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Chapter 2:

What’s New: In this telling of the Magi (which is the only telling we get, it’s not in any other gospel), there is nothing that leads us to believe they met Jesus when he was a newborn in the manger. In fact, some of the smallest details point us in another direction, despite the typical holiday nativity depictions. When the Magi arrived in Jerusalem, they asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?” (v2). “Has been born,” past tense. Verse 11 adds, “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.” They came to a house, not an inn or stable. Also, they saw a “child,” not a baby. Luke 2:6 says, “the time came for the baby to be born.” So, we’re seeing a difference in his age description, “baby” in Luke, and “child” here in Matthew.

The final and biggest detail pointing to the fact that Jesus was not a newborn when the Magi saw him comes in verse 16: “When Herod had realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.” Herod’s order was attempting to cover the time he first spoke with the Magi, two years prior. These kinds of details are so interesting, but they beg the question, if these kinds of well-known details are wrong, what else do we trust that’s a misconception? This is why we get into the Word ourselves!

Who is God: God orchestrates things that far exceed Satan’s abilities. Herod’s decree is rooted in pure evil. That kind of influence can only come from the evil one himself. Satan influenced Herod to kill the boys of Bethlehem, however, he couldn’t foresee which child was the Messiah, or that he had left the region, otherwise he could have influenced a specific hit on a certain target. Our enemy has influence; Our God has power. There’s a massive difference.

Psalm 29: “‘They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,’ let Israel say; ‘they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me,’” (v1-2). God never promises us an easy life. That is certainly evident in Matthew 2:18. But because our God has the final say, the victory is his! The waiting, patience, and faithfulness we must exhibit in between can’t overtake us if we truly trust and seek him.

Scripture Memorization: “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Matthew 3:8.

-The “fruit” of our obedient labor doesn’t come when we give in and excuse our sinful behavior. Fruit comes in keeping with repentance.

-Notice, this verse doesn’t say, “fruit comes from an abundance of grace.” Your sanctification is what God cares about. Personal repentance allows the Holy Spirit to do the work he’s always been trying to do.

-Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - This is what I have noticed in this familiar book of Matthew. What’s new to you? How do you see God’s character in these Scriptures? Leave a comment!

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We’ve spent the last two months reading and studying the books of the minor prophets, learning the history of the Jews and how these books all point to God. We just finished the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi. We’ll begin a study of the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, on Monday, but without pausing for a moment, it’s extremely easy to miss what God was doing during the 400 years between Malachi and Matthew.

The life of Malachi ended approximately 397 BC. For at least 10 generations, there were no signs from God, no prophets hearing from the Lord, and no divinely inspired writings. That silence is missed when we simply turn one page in our Bibles. God gave his warnings and directions through his prophets, then the faith of the people was tested as the Lord watched.

God’s silence does not mean he has stopped. He is always sovereignly holding together millions upon millions of delicate details. Let’s look at what God silently orchestrated during those four centuries.

Persia was the dominating world power that released the Jews from Babylonian captivity. They ruled for nearly 200 years before the Greeks toppled them around 333 BC, led by Alexander the Great, which Daniel prophesied about. Why is this significant? The Greek language exploded in popularity. This led to the creation of the Septuagint in Alexandria, Egypt, the translation of the Bible from Hebrew into Greek. This allowed many to read his divinely inspired Scriptures.

God may have been silent, but he used the power of the Greeks to begin telling the world, not just the Jews, about his coming Son, the Messiah.

If you want to know more about the Septuagint and how its translations are still critically important to today, I highly recommend following on Substack!

From about 204 BC to 63 BC various nations like the Egyptians and Syrians had small glimpses of power. It was during this time that many religions were banned. Thousands were murdered and the Jews were treated horribly. The Jews fought back, leading to the rise of the Maccabees. This, in turn, created Jewish religious sects like the Pharisees and Sadducees.

Then the Romans came into power in approximately 63 AD. While they too severely oppressed the Lord’s people, God used their advanced craftsmanship for his glory. The Romans built elaborate road systems. These roads provided easier travel, and along with the popularity of the Greek language, they were used by God for the explosive expansion of his Word, and the spread of the gospel message of Christ! Without either, we may not have the New Testament Scriptures that we trust today!

God allowed these world powers to rise. He then used their language and road systems to bring about his plans and glory. This is missed when we just turn one page in our Bibles. God’s silence does not equal God’s lack of involvement.

We must remember this because sometimes he can seem silent in our own personal lives. God is patient, but he’s never absent. If it feels like he’s gone quiet in your life, I encourage you to seek him. Harder and more thoroughly than you ever have before, if needed. Read his Word, pray more often. Perhaps he’s using the silence to draw you closer to him.

As you do so, remember there is nothing you can do to step out of his hand. He held the minute details of worldly powers for 400 years. He holds the intricacies of your life as well. Sometimes the plans he has for you suddenly become clear. Sometimes the break in silence comes unexpectedly. God was silent for 400 years. The silence ended when a baby cried from a Middle Eastern animal trough.

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If someone asked you what your worst fear is, what would you say? Spiders? Heights? Death? My worst fear is snakes in water. I realize that’s oddly specific, but the snakes that hang out in water tend to be deadly and massive. I love swimming, and the last thing I want is to be coiled up and pulled under. Truthfully, I saw the movie Anaconda when I was younger, and it just never really left me.

Now, what are you really afraid of? What are the fears you don’t tell people? I’m afraid my daughters will end up with men who abuse them. I’m afraid my children will deny Christ in their adulthood. I’m afraid my wife will believe she doesn’t need me. Fear is one of our primary emotions, however, studies show that we only have two fears when we’re born, the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. They’re survival instincts. So where do these deeper fears come from? They’re developed and learned through what we see, believe, and experience. A fear of failure comes from the belief that falling short is an insurmountable setback. It can grow deeper from the personal experience of being mocked after mistakes were made. A fear of insecurity can come from an unsafe or volatile upbringing, or having witnessed or experienced a lack of control in desperate, challenging, or unpredictable situations. Fears can come from the wounds of relationships. A friendship gone sour, church hurt, or a bad divorce can create a fear of rejection. Harsh criticisms from peers or mentors can produce a fear of judgment. Growing up without friends or family can spark the fear of isolation. These are valid fears, stemming from real wounds, that run deep.

So, what are my real fears rooted in? The fear of my daughters ending up in abusive relationships is rooted in the fear that I’ll fail to protect my children. The fear that my children will turn away from Christ is rooted in the belief that I can’t live up to who I’m called to be as a man of God, and that I’ll be unable to adequately teach my kids about Jesus. The fear that my wife will leave me comes from thinking I’m not good enough, worrying that she’ll see the personal inadequacies I feel and think about myself, and they’ll be deal breakers for her. Every man has fears similar to these, but their depths and origins are often unrealized.

When we begin to reflect on the roots of our fears, an important question to remember is, “What role is God playing in these fears?” What role is God playing in my fear of failing as a protector, father, and disciple of Jesus? None. Those fears are rooted in my own abilities, which will sometimes fall short. They come from a lack of trust in the Father’s purpose and protection over my loved ones. What role does God play in my fear of rejection? None. That fear ignores the truth that I am a child of God, and because of my faith in Jesus, I am secure. My fears are all about me and what I think are my own short-comings. They’re based around an absence of God. He’s never left me or given me a reason to distrust him, yet I’ve kept him out of the darkest corners of my heart. These kinds of worries push God to the background, making the fear feel bigger and more powerful than The Almighty.

Reverend Billy Graham famously said, “The devil loves a fearful Christian.” Why would he love a fearful Christian? Because fear keeps people paralyzed and stationary. A fearful Christian doesn’t like to step out in faith. A fearful Christian doesn’t fully trust in God. A fearful Christian cares more about what people say and think than what God does. Proverbs 29:25 says, “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Satan loves using fear to stop Christians from doing the work that God has prepared for them, as it stops God’s people from living the abundant life that he’s promised. Someone once told me, “If you’re afraid, well, fine, do it while you’re afraid. But know that God is with you.” Fear is a God given emotion, but when it’s left unchecked, it easily leads us to believe the enemy’s lies. Fear is crippling, controlling, and makes us forget the power of the Holy Spirit living inside us. When the Christian man lives in fear, he’s only a shell of his true self.

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God didn’t create us to live in fear, but he also knew we would need reminders to be bold, courageous, and fearless. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” There is so much to pull from this one passage. “So do not fear, for I am with you,” is a God-given directive: stop focusing on the fear! Instead, remember who he is and where he is. “Do not be dismayed, for I am your God,” reminds us not to be troubled, discouraged, fed up, distressed, intimidated, or demoralized, for God is the remedy to our own insecurity. We are safe, protected, and covered by him. “I will strengthen you and help you,” is the Lord telling us that we don’t have to worry about not being good enough. We are good enough, not by our own account, but because he generously gives us his power through his Holy Spirit. He is our firm foundation, so we don’t have to rely on our own strength. Finally, “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” We are standing in his righteousness. The judgments of people can’t stick to us when we remember that we have been redeemed and made new by his holiness. Deeply rooted fears are a human thing, not a God thing. We can trust that he knows when we need his help, and that he will provide it.

Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This is a command to not let fear cripple you. It’s also a command, from God, to trust him! The Christian man demonstrates courage by remaining faithful to Christ even if the whole world is against him. Certain fears may have deep roots, or have been a part of your story for as long as you can remember, but none of them are ever bigger than God. There are times when the Christian needs to push through fear. There are times when a disciple has to be bold. Too often fear stops men from sharing the gospel, taking steps of faith, or living with the renewed mindset that comes from being redeemed by Christ.

Like anger, fear can originate from grief, painful experiences and personal wounds. Fears, however, come with an additive: a doubt in God. When fear prevents a man from taking a step of faith, he’s not trusting Christ’s secure hand on his life. When wounds of past rejections stop a man from creating new relationships, there’s no trust in Christ’s acceptance of him. When I fear that my daughters will end up with men who abuse them, I’m skeptic of the future the Lord has planned for them. 1 John 4:18 tells us, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear.” If Jesus was the embodiment of perfect love, then in him are the remedies to all of our deepest fears. Jesus faithfully provides everything we’re afraid to lose.

Fear is a self-defense mechanism. When it overtakes the mind or heart, man goes into self-preservation mode, and the fear creates a barrier of safety. The problem becomes that we trust the safety of remaining fearful over the promise, instructions, and plans of the God we’re discipling. Psalm 27:1 proclaims, “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?” When we remember who is on our side, there really is nothing to fear.

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Chapter 3 begins with a very recognizable prophecy: “I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me” (v1). This points to John the Baptist, who “prepared the way” for Jesus by preaching baptism and repentance. Notice the language: John will “prepare the way before me.” It’s always wild to get the confirmation that the prophets are hearing from Jesus before he’s lived on earth!

Chapter 3:

What’s New: “‘So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers, perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,’ says the Lord Almighty” (v5). Those who don’t honor and respect God and his ways will quickly find themselves in a chair they don’t want to be sitting in.

First, we must remember the truth of Romans 8:1, “Therefore, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” The Lord Almighty will not put anyone on “trial” if they’ve genuinely put their faith in him. Secondly, a lifetime of walking with Christ helps us turn away from things like sorcery, adultery, lying, cheating, greed, and so much more. The goodness that comes from Christ, and the salvation that’s found in him, are the reasons we don’t have to literally be afraid of him or that day.

Who is God: “‘Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it,’” (v10). God wants his people to trust him and his ability to provide.

The Jews were “robbing God” because they weren’t bringing him the full tithe and offering. This may have been done out of greed, but it also may have been done out of fear. Tithing is important because it helps the church, but it has an effect on us as well. It teaches us to trust him and gives us the opportunity to see him work miracles and blessings in our lives and the lives of others. Whether it’s through your time, resources, or finances, there’s an opportunity for you to test the Lord with your giving, in order to see the abundance of heaven’s supply.

Psalm 126: “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them,’ (v1-2). This psalm was written after the Jews release from Babylonian captivity. It remembers what the Lord did and reveals how happy they were! Our studies of the lesser prophets have revealed the complexities of the Jews’ relationship and status with God. But here we see that God wants good things for his people! However, the question we must recognize is “Will we keep our heart pointed toward Him?”

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Chapter 4:

What’s New: “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves,” (v2). Evidently, well-fed calves like to frolic in the fields! So much so, that their happiness is noticeable and known. Remember, the first three chapters of this book have been pointing out their dishonor of God in their sacrifices, the breaking of their covenants through divorce and adultery, and withholding tithes while saying, “It is futile to serve God,” (3:14). But for those who remain faithful, there is reward!

Have you ever stopped to feel the warmth of the sun on your face? Maybe while on vacation, at the beach, or during a peaceful morning sunrise? That pause can actually bring mental, emotional, and spiritual healing. How much more healing will the rays of the Lord, the “sun of righteousness” bring?! After a whole book of warning and conviction, God reminds us that there is still an unimaginable joy for those who trust in him.

Who is God: “See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes…I will come and strike the land with total destruction” (v5-6). Did you notice the words that God himself uses to describe the day of his return? “Dreadful” and “total destruction.” This is a small description of his power and authority. If this seems wrong or unfair to you, might I offer this:

The real wrong was flogging a man so badly that “his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness,” (Isaiah 52:14). The ultimate unfairness was nailing the most innocent man in human history to a tree.

Psalm 127: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain,” (v1). Anything built outside of God’s help and glory is a wasted effort. Yet, this is exactly what God is watching some of his people do in the book of Malachi, attempting to rebuild the nation of Judah without the Lord’s statutes as its foundation.

Scripture Memorization: “For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:40.

• God’s will is for everyone to be saved.

• This puts a great emphasis on your role to share the gospel message of the Son, Jesus Christ.

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - This is what I have noticed in these final two chapters of Malachi. What stood out to you? What was new? How did you see God’s character on display? Leave a comment!

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Malachi takes place around 450 BC, about 100 years after the release from Babylon. While it’s the final book of the Old Testament, it marks something new: A time of silence from God. After he gives these words to Malachi, God goes silent for more than 400 years. Imagine that. After always having a prophet that heard from the Lord, albeit some were false and misleading the people, no one hears anything from God. 10 generations of silence, until the appearance of John the Baptist and Jesus the Messiah.

Chapter 1:

What’s New: “A son honors his father, and a slave a master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me?” says the Lord Almighty (v6). Adding, “When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor!” (v8). Without wanting to undermine this, because God is angry here, I do enjoy getting glimpses of God’s sarcasm.

Something similar happened all the way back in Genesis 4, with Cain and Abel. Cain tried to offer fruits of the soil that weren’t his finest. Today, humanity continues to short-change God, pridefully hanging onto what we think is ours, in order to only give up “chump-change.” This is all in direct contrast to what David said in 1 Chronicles 21:24, “I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” Does your worship of Him cost you anything? Does your tithing? Does your life? What we give to God has direct correlation to what we think of God.

Who is God: “‘I am not pleased with you,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and I will accept no offering from your hands’” (v10). God is worthy to be given that which has a significant cost. But in his goodness, he always gives us more than what we could ever give him. We give him our earthly lives, and in exchange he gives us eternal life. “‘For I am a great king,’ says the Lord Almighty, ‘and my name is to be feared among the nations’” (v14).

When we forget his holy and kingly status, the notion of our own status grows too large. Conceding humility always increases pride. In this first chapter of Malachi, the Jews are only a couple of generations beyond their Babylonian release. They’re acting like their ancestors because that’s exactly what the human heart does when it doesn’t keep God in his rightful, high place: it reverts and becomes self-seeking. But God made a promise to this “remnant”, and God has always been a promise keeper.

Psalm 124: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth” (v8). This verse is in reference to escaping enemies. However, it still rings true in regard to the troubles, struggles, and temptations of this life. He is our help in everything! And if he can create the heavens and earth, surely, he can walk with us through the storm.

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Chapter 2:

What’s New: “You have wearied the Lord with your words. ‘How have we wearied him?’ you ask. By saying, ‘All who do evil are good in the eyes of the Lord, and he is pleased with them’” (v17). God does not think our sin is okay, and here in this passage, the Lord has grown tired with his people who have attempted to justify their sins. Essentially, the priests and people of Judah are doing what God calls evil, yet saying, “God still loves me,” without actually making any attempt to turn away from their sin.

Now, we’ve all done this. It’s a part of our fallen nature. God has far more grace and patience than we do. As we’ve studied these lesser prophets, we’ve seen many examples of God waiting for decades or even centuries before dealing with the sins of his people. Today, our sin has been paid for because Jesus took on a physical and spiritual payment that should have been ours. However, any man, church, or nation that sees their sin listed in Scripture, and continues to seek it and excuse it away, is not denying themselves to honor and live for God.

Who is God: God takes covenants seriously. Not just the covenants that he hands down between him and his people, but also the covenants that we make with our spouse before him. The men of Judah have been breaking their spousal covenant. It seems that some of these men have been divorcing their wives to marry other women “who worship a foreign god” (v11). “The Lord is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant” (v14).

Notice God didn’t say “she was your partner.” He said, “she is your partner.” These men may have legally divorced, but in God’s eyes, the covenant still stands. God’s words are true and unbreakable. If we’re trying to live Christ-like, our words should be the same.

Psalm 125: “Lord, do good to those who are good, to those who are upright in heart” (v5). I think this is both a great prayer and a scary one! There is comfort in knowing that the Lord will help his people. However, it also makes me reflect on my own heart. I know it has a tendency to veer away from good and fail to be upright. But that is my heart on its own. That is my heart when I give in to the flesh or feed it with worldliness. My heart in the hands of the Lord is good and upright because he’s changing it to be more like his.

Scripture Memorization: “For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” John 6:40.

-Jesus’ words. Jesus’ power to raise. The Father’s desire for all.

-What does the reveal about the Father’s plan to bring humanity back to him? How can this help you share the gospel to those who have yet to put their faith in Jesus?

-Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite it 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - What have you noticed in these first two chapters of Malachi? What’s new? How do you see God’s character in these Scriptures? Leave a comment!

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The final section of Zechariah tells of the Messiah’s coming kingdom, the New Jerusalem. Knowing that many of Zechariah’s specific prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus, we can trust that these end times prophecies will be seen one day as well, perhaps in our lifetime.

Chapter 13:

What’s New: “‘Awake, sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is close to me!’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered,’ (v7). You may recognize the line, “Strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered.” Jesus quoted it to his disciples on the night of his arrest (Matt. 26:31) to prepare them for what was about to happen. Scripture confirms that the disciples did in fact scatter, as John was the only disciple at Jesus’ crucifixion.

What’s really interesting is the line before it: “Awake, sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is close to me!” Isaiah 53:10 says something similar, “Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; He has put him to grief.” The death and crucifixion of Jesus, the striking of the shepherd, the man close to God, was always the work of the Father. From the very beginning, it was planned, orchestrated, and executed for the salvation of that which was created in His image, the humans he loved, yet rebelled against Him. A shredded, bloodied, and crucified Jesus was not Satan’s victorious moment, but God’s.

Who is God: “‘On that day, I will banish the names of the idols from the land, and they will be remembered no more,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘I will remove both the prophets and the spirit of impurity from the land,’” (v2). I love the words used here, banished and removed. Idols, false prophets, and impurities of any kind cannot exist in the presence of Christ! The very second that the sky opens up and Jesus stands on the Mount of Olives again, any unholy thing is toast! There’s no war because there’s no competition. Evil is simply banished and removed because Christ is just that Holy.

Psalm 122: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (v6). Jerusalem needed prayers back in the time of King David, that still rings true today. That whole region seems to experience the worst spiritual and physical attacks. As we finish Zechariah and read about the Lord’s coming kingdom, we can know that there will be a final peace, but only after a final destruction of the evil that surrounds and flows within it.

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Chapter 14:

What’s New: On the day of the Lord, there will be horrific chaos and confusion. “On that day there will be neither sunlight nor cold, frosty darkness. It will be a unique day - a day known only to the Lord - with no distinction between night and day. When evening comes, there will be light” (v6-7). Additionally, verse 12 says, “This is the plague with which the Lord will strike all the nations that fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh will rot while they are still standing on their feet, their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouths.”

Today’s culture very much has a “Science vs. Christianity” mentality. But it’s not intended to be this way. Science is meant to be the discovery of God’s creation. Therefore, I wonder if these divinely wrathful events, unique daylight and flesh-eating plagues, will attempt to be explained away by the science of celestial anomalies or new vaccines and medicines needed? Will there even be time to recognize science in the immediate wake of God’s wrath?

We already see this with certain events in nature. Earthquakes are explained away by plate-tectonics. Severe droughts or rains are the results of El Nino. Those explanations may not be inherently wrong, but they neglect the truth that God’ is sovereignly behind it all. When Jesus is standing on the Mount of Olives, will there will still be those who doubt, attempting to explain it all away through their own false understanding?

Who is God: “The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name” (v9). He already is king over the whole earth, he’s just waiting for the right time to reveal it. However, we must also pay attention to verse 13: “On that day people will be stricken by the Lord with great panic.” It will be a day of terror for anyone who has not aligned themselves with Jesus, which at the time of his coming, could very well be the majority of humanity. Is Christ’s church really ready for the events and persecution that leads up to his return? Are you?

Psalm 123: This psalm is only four verses, but it’s so interesting. Each verse feels like one step further down into despair, beginning with the glory of God in heaven, down to “we have endured no end of ridicule” (v4). Read this multiple times. Feel the downward descent. Then read it backward: verse 4, 3, 2, then 1. Desperation often causes us to hang our head, when the solution is to remember to look up.

Scripture Memorization: “The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.” Psalm 115:16.

• This verse reveals that mankind is supposed to shepherd the earth. But it also reveals God as its creator. “He has given” it to mankind, meaning it was his to give.

• This also teaches us that God gives good gifts and trusts us with important things. What good things has God given you personally? What important things has he entrusted you to shepherd?

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - Zechariah has been a wild study! “Aha!” moments, familiar prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus, and a lot of imagery that made me say, “What the heck?!” But the push outside the comfort zone has been good! What stood out to you in this book? What was new? How did you see the character of God on display? Leave a comment! We’ll begin the final book of the Old Testament, Malachi, on Monday!

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“Feelings are indicators, not dictators. They can indicate where your heart is in the moment, but that doesn’t mean they have the right to dictate your behavior and boss you around.”

Lysa TerKeurst.

OK Men,

Before our game of cul-de-sac baseball could even get started, my friend yelled, “You better not use my bat!” To which I said, “Okay,” and flung his bat as high as I could into the air, letting it clang off the concrete. Understandably ticked, my friend came sprinting toward me and a full-scale fight ensued. Punches were thrown, kicks were landed, I think I even wound up hitting him in the head with a base. Our pickup baseball game was over before the first pitch was thrown. Obviously, this was an immature way of dealing with our anger, but we were kids. As grown men, anger needs to be processed and dealt with differently. When it’s not, the immature child within can quickly come back, wounding others in the process.

Anger is one of the most difficult emotions for a Christian man to navigate. Scripture tells us in Ephesians 4:26, “In your anger, do not sin.” This might top the list of verses that are easier said than done. Notice it doesn’t say, “In your fear do not sin,” or “In your sadness do not sin.” It specifically warns against anger. There is a clear connection between anger and a lack of self-control. A man’s uncontrolled anger is a frightening experience. When you’re on the receiving end, that’s often when deep wounds are formed. When you’re the one dishing it out, someone else has been hurt, and trust has been broken.

When anger isn’t processed properly, it leads to bitterness, unforgiveness, or even full-blown hatred. I’ve let anger out through screaming, emotional explosions, even verbally tearing others down. I also know what it is to silently sit in my anger, stewing, allowing mental rumination, and then bottling it all up. A full release hurts those we love most, stuffing it down and trying to ignore it only hurts ourselves. When it’s denied, anger can still come out in other ways like sarcasm, withdrawing from relationships, or resentment. Moments of uncontrolled anger, even brief ones, have broken marriages, cost jobs, and led to jail cells. Anger doesn’t feel good, and when men don’t feel good, we’ll seek something out to change that. Pornography, substance abuse, or hours of mindless scrolling being the typical outlets for self-medication. However, we’re certainly not the only generation that has struggled to process anger in a God-honoring way.

When the Israelites were in the desert complaining about having no water (which is a valid complaint), God told Moses to speak to the rock and water will pour out. Instead, Moses called the Israelites, “Rebels,” and struck the rock twice with his staff (Numbers 20:10-11). When a Samaritan village rejected Jesus and his disciples, James and John asked in Luke 9:54, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” David wrote psalms in his anger, saying things like, “May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever,” in Psalm 69:23. Also, “May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership. May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow,” in Psalm 109:8-9. Moses lashed out with physicality, the disciples wanted to see a village burn, and David wanted his enemies to be stricken blind, lose their leadership status, and then die. There are plenty of Biblical men who had moments when they failed to handle their anger in Godly ways. Jonah was another.

After he had been swallowed by the whale, Jonah finally submits to God and agrees to his mission of going to Ninevah to preach repentance of their sins. 120,000 people turned from their evil ways and were spared from the wrath of God. That’s a good thing! “But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry” (Jonah 4:1). There’s a final chapter in this well-known story that’s often forgotten. After doing exactly what God instructed him to do, Jonah didn’t think Ninevah deserved God’s compassion. “But the Lord replied, ‘Is it right for you to be angry?’” (Jonah 4:4). This question from God is a neighborhood that disciples of Christ need to live in. When we’re angry, how often is it right? When is it warranted, and when is it just rooted in pride? For this answer, we look to when Jesus got angry.

Matthew 21:12-13 says, “Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. ‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers.’” Jesus’ anger caused him to flip tables and drive everyone out of the temple courts using a whip. Jesus got angry! Therefore, we know it’s an emotion that we’re valid in feeling. It’s the expression of it that causes problems. On the surface, Jesus’ anger can look sinful. The temple was meant to be a place of holy worship and reverence, and Jesus comes in and creates a scene. This holy place, however, had been turned into a shopping center. He was restoring holiness to the temple of God, a holiness that the Jews had lost sight of. Jesus got angry, and then used his anger to fuel a righteous action.

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There are some instances when it is right to be angry. It is a God given and created emotion. We’re meant to feel it. The healthy, Christian response to anger is holy action, not reaction. Let the anger drive you to protect, defend, and set boundaries. When you see injustice, let anger drive you to create change. Accomplish things in a God-honoring way. Have something good come from your anger. Use your anger to strengthen your relationship with God. If you don’t know how to process the anger you’re feeling, remember Jacob. He wrestled with God, all night long in Genesis 32, and God allowed it. In our own anger, God allows us to wrestle with him without losing our status as righteous. If you need to blow up, blow up in the direction of the Father. Pour it out to him, he can take it.

Anger, when not released properly, becomes a poison. I was once part of an exercise where men lined up face to face, and simply screamed. It was a way of releasing anger we may have been holding on to. Some men laughed, some didn’t really care for it, but for others, like myself, it was exactly the release that was needed. I pictured a man I worked with, one who made my job harder than it was supposed to be, and brought me frustration day after day. I screamed, and screamed, and screamed…and then I wept. I had no idea how much anger I had been holding onto and bottling up for so long. I had been carrying it around for years and didn’t even realize it. I thought I was an easy-going Christian man, yet I had just discovered an outpouring of rage that had been building up in my heart. Was it right for me to be angry with my coworker? Perhaps after the first or second instance. But after that, I should have taken the holy action of engaging in respectful conversations with him about the problem. In that season of my life, unfortunately, I was not a wise or mature enough Christian to do so. So, the anger built up and festered into frustration, annoyance, and a massive lack of love until I was given the opportunity to literally explode.

Jesus’ anger wasn’t reactive like mine has been. He didn’t bottle it up and let it affect his mind like I still sometimes do. He didn’t see an egregious wrong and take the easy route by ignoring it. He got angry, but still used wisdom. He was intentional in his anger and it produced an action that honored the Father. God can get angry. But what’s truly amazing is how he’s slow to anger with us. Psalm 103:8 says, “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” If the Lord is this way, then his disciples are called to be as well. When I think of the times that I’ve sinned, God would have had every right to release his full anger on me. But he hasn’t. Not once, ever. He’s pushed his anger aside and instead offered me unending compassion, grace, and love. Something all Christian men have experienced and are expected to pay forward.

C.S. Lewis once said, “I sat with my anger long enough until she told me her real name was grief.” Men have been known to give full vent to their rage when anger is not actually the root emotion. Anger is often a cover that’s hiding pain like fear, sadness, or shame. The key to successfully processing anger, or any emotion, is to allow God into it. When David vented his anger to God it became divinely inspired psalms. When Jonah stopped running, and instead turned to God, even in his anger, God spoke to him. When Jesus got angry, he defended the Father’s house and holiness. Anger was never intended to control you, despite how controlling it may feel. Anger was not designed to build emotional walls or be bottled up. It’s certainly not an excuse to hurt the innocent. It’s meant to fuel a holy action and direct us toward God. When it’s expressed in unhealthy ways, the enemy capitalizes, using it as a gateway for all varieties of sin.

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If you enjoyed the confusion from the earlier chapters of Zechariah, you’re in luck! These final chapters (9-14) have clear moments that point to the coming Messiah and kingdom of God, as well as some odd and challenging sections. Before you begin reading Zechariah 11, know that it connects to the previous chapter, as God previously said, “My anger burns against the shepherds, I will punish the leaders” (10:3). (If you need to read the study on Zechariah 9-10 first, click HERE) The “Two Shepherds” in this upcoming chapter represent the leaders of Israel who have led the people astray.

Chapter 11:

What’s New: “I told them, ‘If you think it best, give me my pay; but if not, keep it.’ So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter’ - the handsome price at which they valued me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them to the potter at the house of the Lord” (v12-13). Thirty pieces of silver…that’s familiar!

This foreshadows the thirty pieces of silver Judas received for betraying Jesus. In his guilt, Judas would try to return the silver, but it could not be used as a tithe because it was what they called “blood money” (Matthew 27:3-10). The above passage from Zechariah drips with sarcasm, as he writes about the thirty pieces of silver, “the handsome price at which they valued me!” Thirty pieces of silver was the Old Testament value of a slave (Exodus 21:32), which shows what the corrupt shepherds of Israel thought of Zechariah, as well as what the high priest and Pharisees thought of Jesus.

Who is God: “Then I took my staff called Favor and broke it, revoking the covenant I had made with all the nations” (v10). “Then I broke my second staff called Union, breaking the family bond between Judah and Israel” (v14). There is a lot of literal and Messianic imagery in these two verses. Zechariah breaks these staffs because a time is coming when the Jews will no longer have favor from the Lord simply because they’re his chosen people. He breaks Union because soon the unity of God’s people will no longer be by the bloodline of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

For us, the Messiah has come and the new covenant has been established. “Favor and Union” are found in Christ, not in a bloodline or national borders. We receive the grace of God by accepting the Son’s sacrifice and atoning payment for our sins. The wrath of God is no longer upon us because Jesus took it all. Union now comes from being adopted in as a child of God. Favor and Union are for all who have put their faith in Christ.

Psalm 120: “Save me, Lord, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues. What will he do to you, and what more besides, you deceitful tongue?” (v2-3). Jesus said that he is “the truth” (John 14:6). He also called Satan, “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Deceitful tongues come from the evil one. A man who seeks truth, will speak truth. When you’re on the receiving end of lies, deceit, and half-truths, remember where they’re actually coming from.

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Chapter 12:

What’s New: “On that day the weeping in Jerusalem will be as great as the weeping of Hadad Rimmon in the plain of Megiddo” (v11). Naturally, this brings up the question, “What happened in the plain of Megiddo?” This reference is regarding the death of one Judah’s previous kings, Josiah, who helped the nation of Judah turn back to the Lord after his father and grandfather had led them astray. Josiah was a righteous king, taking the thrown at only 8 years old.

Josiah reigned from approximately 640-609 BC, and just a couple weeks ago we studied the book of Zephaniah, who was the prophet during that time. What led to the “great weeping” was Josiah being killed in battle against the Egyptian Pharaoh Necho at Megiddo. He was a king, war hero, and man of God who reintroduced the law of the Lord to the Israelites. He was young, wise, and beloved. Judah grieved and wept for him deeply. And now, approximately 100 years later, Zechariah’s reference from God would have been widely understood.

Who is God: “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son” (v10). “They will look on me, the one they have pierced.” God speaks to Zephaniah then says the house of David has pierced me. An amazing prophetical piece, knowing that Zechariah is speaking to the Lord Jesus, hundreds of years before his birth, hundreds of years before the invention of the “piercing” of Roman crucifixion. Who is God? Clearly, it’s Jesus Christ, the one pierced for our transgressions (Isaiah 53:5).

Psalm 121: “The Lord will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (v7-8). The Lord God is El Roi, the God who sees. He watches over you, knows the season you’re in, and has intention and will for your life. This life may not always be easy, but there is great reward for faithfulness and following his ways. Dark seasons are a reality of a fallen world. But 100 trillion, trillion, trillion+ years in his presence is also a reality.

Scripture Memorization: “The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.” Psalm 115:16.

• Why does God allow suffering and evil in this world? The better question is why do we? Mankind was entrusted to shepherd the earth.

• What can the church do to better care for the earth? What can you do?

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - There are some really interesting prophecies and details in these chapters of Zechariah! What is standing out to you? What’s new? How are you seeing God’s character in these scriptures? Leave a comment! We’ll finish this book on Friday!

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This week we’ll read the final six chapters of Zechariah. In chapters 9-14, we get more prophecies, but without the odd dream-like interpretations. These are more straight forward and to the point. Don’t skip these. There are incredible things that God revealed to his people through these chapters! Including one of the most well-known prophecies about the Messiah.

Chapter 9:

What’s New: “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (v9). Fulfilled by Jesus as he rode into Jerusalem on a borrowed donkey, as the people shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matt. 21:9). It wasn’t just the Messiah riding into town that was prophesied, his reception, the rejoicing of the people, “Shout, Daughter Jerusalem” was also foretold.

Who is God: “See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey” (v9). Our King came to us already righteous and victorious. He made himself low so that he could empathize with our weakness (Hebrews 4:15) and so that his sacrifice would mean salvation for those who shared in his humanity. Our God loves us so much that he left his thrown in heaven to fully understand the human experience. Hebrews 2:9 adds, “But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.”

Psalm 118: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (v22). The fact that we got Zechariah 9:9 and now Psalm 118:22 in the same day just points to God’s awesome timing! “Cornerstone” is a crucially important word in Scripture as it always points to Christ. It’s not the first time we’ve read it either, as it’s also mentioned in Isaiah 28:16 saying, “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.” Christ, the precious cornerstone, is our sure foundation.

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Chapter 10:

What’s New: “Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone” (v1). This is shocking to me because I’ve heard and used the expression, “If you ask God for flowers, he’ll bring the rain.” Meaning, whatever it is that you ask God for, he’ll bring that challenges that produce that harvest, rather than just give you what you ask for. He does this because he cares for your growth and sanctification. Until this chapter, I had no idea that expression actually stems from biblical scripture!

Who is God: “From Judah will come the cornerstone” (v4). We’re not done with “cornerstone” yet! This “remnant of Judah” that has been freed from captivity and is beginning anew will have the hand of the Lord upon them. “I will strengthen Judah and save the tribes of Joseph. I will restore them because I have compassion on them. They will be as though I had not rejected them, for I am the Lord their God and I will answer them” (v6). The sins of their ancestors have been forgotten. Like the Israelites who wandered in the desert with Moses, the new generation now inherits the land and the blessings of God. And from this new Judah comes the “cornerstone”, the fulfillment of God’s original saving promise.

If you’ve got the time, I encourage you to look up these other verses and reflect on the mentions of “cornerstone”: Job 38:1-7, Acts 4:11-12, Ephesians 2:20, Mark 12:10-12, and 1 Peter 2:4-8.

Psalm 119: We’ve reached the longest Psalm, 176 verses. 22 stanzas perfectly align with the Hebrew alphabet (Aleph, Beth, Gimal, Daleth, etc). Take some time to read this one. There are great verses for so many seasons of life. What speaks to you now? I’m currently building a program to help men find freedom from the chains of pornography. Because of that, verse 9 stands out to me: “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” All men need to hear this one, not just the young ones.

Scripture Memorization: “The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind.” Psalm 115:16.

-If God has given earth to mankind, and the earth appears to be in shambles, who’s fault is it?

-People will argue, “Why does God allow suffering?” Maybe it’s because earth is ours to shepherd, and we’re supposed to stand against suffering.

-Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - This is what I have noticed in Zechariah 9-10. What have you noticed? What’s new? How are you seeing God’s character? Leave a comment!

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Zechariah 7 begins with, “In the fourth year of King Darius” (v1), meaning two years have passed since Zechariah received his unique dreams and visions. Presumably, he’s been getting some better sleep! It’s a short chapter, but a welcome one, as we’ve moved past the visions and imagery (for now) and into real conversation with God.

Chapter 7:

What’s New: “Ask all the people of the land and the priests, ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months for the past seventy years, was it really for me that you fasted? And when you were eating and drinking, were you not just feasting for yourselves?’” (v5-6). It’s amazing the things we humans can do that appear to be for God, but are really rooted in pride and done for ourselves.

The Israelites fasted and mourned for two months of the year, consistently for 70 years. While this seems like Godly dedication, the Lord knows the heart. They mourned for themselves being in Babylonian captivity. Fasting was done in hopes that something would come of it. God saw that it wasn’t really done for him. Jesus brings up something similar in Matthew 6:16 saying, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” When fasting is done for prideful reasons that don’t honor God, the stomachache is the only reward.

Who is God: “They made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the Lord Almighty had sent by his Spirit through the earlier prophets. So the Lord Almighty was very angry. ‘When I called, they did not listen; so when they called, I would not listen,’ says the Lord Almighty” (v12-13). Before the ancestors of “the remnant of Judah” were overtaken by Babylon, God saw their evil and disregard for his law. Yet, he still called to them. They ignored those words as well.

God’s return to “not listen” is not a sign of prideful ignorance or quid-pro-quo retaliation. That is not God’s character. Rather, his refusal to answer their call comes from knowing their heart. They didn’t call out to him to have more of him. They called out to save their own skin from the consequences of their own sin. There’s a loving purification process of the heart that happens when God lets us experience the consequences of our sins, without actually leaving us.

Psalm 116: “Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you” (v7). I feel like this was all God was ever offering to the Israelites; rest and goodness for the soul. But they forgot that “The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion” (v5). All these good things God still offers his people today. How often do we pause to remember his gracious and righteous compassion to feel the rest in our souls?

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Chapter 8:

What’s New: “‘But now I will not deal with the remnant of this people as I did in the past,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit, the ground will produce its crops, and the heavens will drop their dew. I will give all these things as an inheritance to the remnant of this people’” (v11-12). The Lord is declaring that the land will be prosperous for his people. Why is this new? Look how the previous chapter ends:

Speaking of the ancestors who were taken captive by Babylon, “The land they left behind them was so desolate that no one traveled through it” (7:14). When people genuinely seek God, he provides for them in ways that often go unnoticed. The fruitfulness of the land being one of them. Does our sin have direct impact on the earth itself? Possibly. Does God work all things together for the good of his people, including earthly provisions and necessities? Definitely!

Who is God: The Lord turns graves into gardens, as the song goes; He trades beauty for ashes. Here we see how he makes desolate lands become prosperous. He also turns mourning to joy and celebration. The previous chapter mentioned the fasting of the people in Babylon, and how it was done with prideful intent, therefore nothing came of it. Fasting will be different now that his people are honoring him again. “This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘The fasts of the fourth, fifth, seventh, and tenth months will become joyful and glad occasions and happy festivals for Judah’” (v19). That’s a lot of fasting! But because the hearts of these people have changed, so has the fasting experience. It’s no longer prideful and miserable. Now it’s God-honoring, and therefore, has become a joyous happy occasion!

Psalm 117: Um…only two verses?! That’s all it takes to remember, “great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever”! (v2).

Scripture Memorization: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

• Paul writes more about the new self/creation in Ephesians 4:22-24.

• The “remnant of Judah” has very much become a new creation! How have you changed because of God? How has he made you a new creation? Recognizing that personally makes it so much easier to talk about what God has done in your life.

• Read this verse 10x out loud from the page. Then, recite this verse 10x out loud, only looking at the page as needed.

OK Men - This is what I have noticed in these two chapters of Zechariah. What is standing out to you? What’s new? How do you see the character of God in these chapters? Leave a comment!

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*If The Lord puts it on your heart to help support this mission, community, and ministry, there are a few ways you can do that:

Upgrading to a Paid Subscriber on Substack will give you access to the “Personal Reflection”, “Group Discussion”, and “Call to Action” sections of our weekly devotionals, tools that will help you dive deeper into each topic! You’ll also be supporting a network that provides Biblical material for Christian men.

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Make a one-time donation at our website okmen.net or through “Buy Me a Coffee”.

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Purchase an OKMen Network T-shirt or hat! T-shirts have our three core pillars: John 3:30, Proverbs 17:17, and 2 Samuel 5:10.

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