12/1/22: I just found out that most of the commentaries on the Bible Study Tools website are no longer free. That's where most of the quotes that appear on the "Verse of the Day" and "Previous Verses" pages of my website are taken from, so from now on, many of the "Source:" links that I provide on those pages will not contain the quoted text.

I was disgusted to read about the organization's new "PLUS" membership, and the only thing I can say about it is that the Bible has this warning in 1 Timothy 6:10 for the owner of Bible Study Tools: "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
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8/8/21: Something is wrong with my Christian forum. Everything seems to be working normally (i.e., the articles are there, and the links work), but for some reason, the forum's format has changed slightly, and I am currently unable to post anything new.

I'm really sorry for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the problem is only temporay and will be fixed soon.

AUGUST 31
1 Timothy 4:12

Here is some helpful advice that the apostle Paul gave to Timothy, a minister of the gospel:

1 Timothy 4:12: "Let no man [or woman or child] despise thy [your] youth [or 'feel contempt for your young age'] [in other words, don't let people think you are too young to preach; act like an adult, not like a child]; but be thou [or 'you be'] an example of the believers [in Christ, referring to born-again Christians] [by showing how Christians (in this case, the members of Timothy's church) should behave:]

in word [speech],

in conversation [conduct, behavior, lifestyle],

in charity [love--of God and people],

in spirit [disposition, temperament (e.g., humble, submissive, forgiving, etc.)],

in faith [belief or trust in God],

in purity [innocence of heart and life (i.e., freedom from immorality, especially of a sexual nature)]."
Not all Christians are pastors, like Timothy, but it won't hurt us to follow Paul's advice. No matter how old we are, we should always try to "practice what we preach.."

The GotQuestions.org article for today's verse is entitled "What does 1 Timothy 4:12 mean by, 'Let no one despise your youth'?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/let-no-one-despise-your-youth.html.

AUGUST 30
Psalm 141:4

King David prayed to God:

Psalm 141:4: "Incline not my heart to [don't let me desire or be willing to do] any evil thing, [or] to practise [practice, participate in] wicked works [evil deeds] with men [people] that work iniquity [break the law]: and let me not eat of their dainties [or 'don't let me live a lifestyle like those bad people or enjoy sinful pleasures that are similar to theirs']."
If someone urges you to do drugs, join a gang, participate in illegal activities, become involved in riots, etc., follow the advice of Nancy Reagan (former first lady of the United States) and "just say no." Ask God to help you resist temptation.

Note: In an effort to bring awareness to the nationwide problem of drug abuse in America, Mrs. Reagan launched her "Just Say No" anti-drug campaign in 1982.

AUGUST 29
Psalm 37:21

Psalm 37:21: "The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again [in other words, wicked people borrow money and do not pay it back, which means that, for example, bad people don't repay their debts, either intentionally (because they refuse to do so) or because they have no money and are unable to do so]: but the righteous [people--those with high moral standards, such as born-again Christians] sheweth [show] mercy, and giveth [give] [food, money, clothing, assistance, etc.] [to others]."
About not repaying one's debts, Albert Barnes wrote:

"… It is true … that [a wicked man] will often be 'disposed' [inclined, willing] to borrow and not pay again; that he will be 'reckless' about borrowing and careless about paying [back]; and that it is a characteristic of a good or upright man that he will not borrow when he can avoid it, and that he will be punctual [prompt, on time] and conscientious [having a desire to do what's right] in paying [back, or 'repaying'] what he has borrowed …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/psalms-37.html, "Verse 21")

For people who have a hard time repaying their debts, you may have wondered, "Should a Christian declare bankruptcy?" That question is answered in the GotQuestions.org article by the same name. If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/bankruptcy.html.

AUGUST 28
Romans 8:31

To the Christians in Rome (and to all Christians in general), the apostle Paul wrote:

Romans 8:31: "What shall we then say [in response] to these things [referring to what had been discussed in preceding verses in the 8th chapter of Romans, especially concerning affliction and suffering]? If God be for us [i.e., if he is on our side--helping us, protecting us, etc.], who can be [successful in fighting] against us [and causing us harm]?"
GotQuestions.org has an article about today's verse. It's called "What does 'if God is for us, who can be against us' mean in Romans 8:31?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/if-God-is-for-us-who-can-be-against-us.html.

AUGUST 27
Psalm 101:3

King David wrote this psalm:

Psalm 101:3: "I will set no wicked thing [such as pornography] before mine [my] eyes: I hate the work [motives, plans, and deeds] of them [the people] that turn aside [from righteousness]; it ['the work,' or thoughts, words, and actions of unrighteous people] shall not cleave [stick, cling] to me."
Following King David's example, we shouldn't associate with bad people or look at, think about, read, or have anything to do with ungodly things because, if we do, they may lead us astray or affect us in a bad way (physically, mentally, spiritually, and/or emotionally).

AUGUST 26

Proverbs 26:14: "As the door turneth [turns] upon his [its] hinges, so doth [does] the slothful [lazy] [person] [turn from side to side] upon his [or her] bed [but does not get up]."
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Here are some excerpts:

"3. The sluggard is like that door on its hinges.

"a. First of all, as the hinge anchors the door to the doorjamb [an upright piece forming the side of a door opening], so too the sluggard seems anchored [firmly fixed or attached] to his bed …
"• The sluggard loves sleep; he won't listen to reason; and he is anchored to his bed… like a door on its hinges.
"• He will go back and forth on his bed, but he won't get up.

"b. Secondly, the door swings back and forth, but it never gets anywhere. There is a lot of motion but makes no progress.
"• Like a door on a hinge, the sluggard follows the same old pattern… back and forth… and never gets anywhere.
"• His laziness has him in a perpetual rut [a boring, never-ending routine]…
"• Lazy people do a lot of talking about things that need to get done, but they don't actually DO the work …
"• Nothing gets done. He has a long 'to do list' but he never makes any progress on it.

"c. Thirdly, the door swings on its hinges and squeaks and groans; so does the lazy man.
"• He makes excuses why he can't get up and go to work. He groans about this ache and that pain.
"• He groans and grumbles about all the things that he doesn't have--because he doesn't work …
"• He sees what others have and he wants all the things others enjoy… but cannot obtain them.
"• He is never happy. His life is a life of greedily coveting [or 'wanting to have things'] and never obtaining. He is unfulfilled and unhappy.
"• Thus, he complains about his situation as if he were a poor victim of circumstances. He is a victim of his own slothfulness [laziness].

"d. Fourthly, the door turns back and forth constantly. That is a picture of the lazy man on his bed.
"• That does not speak of a restful sleep.
"• The lazy man has a guilty conscience because he is lazy and does not go to work like everyone else. Thus, he cannot get a good night's rest.
"• He is awake, tossing and turning all night long… like a door on its hinges swinging back and forth …"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary on this verse (which is combined with the commentary on verse 15), click on https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "26_14-15/."

AUGUST 24-25
Luke 10:38, 39, 40, 41, 42

A Tale of Two Sisters: Martha (the Worrier) and  Mary (the Worshiper)

Luke 10:38: "Now it came to pass, as they [Jesus and his disciples] went [on their way to Jerusalem], that he [Jesus (and his disciples)] entered into a certain village [called Bethany]: and a certain woman named Martha [who was probably a widow and who had a sister, named Mary, and a brother, named Lazarus] received him [Jesus (and his disciples), kindly and hospitably (in a way that was friendly and welcoming),] into her house [as a guest]."

Luke 10:39: "And she [Martha] had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word [or 'listened to Jesus' preaching and teaching']."

Luke 10:40: "But Martha was cumbered about much serving [meaning she was very busy preparing food for her guests and making sure that they were comfortable], and [she (Martha)] came to him [Jesus], and said, Lord, dost thou not care [or 'do you not care'] that my sister [Mary] hath [has] left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me [or 'please ask her to come and help me']."

Luke 10:41-42: "And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art [you are] careful [anxious, full of care] and troubled [worried, distracted] about many things [i.e., providing 'food for the body']: But one thing is needful [needed]: and Mary hath chosen that good part [i.e., 'food for the soul,' referring to salvation, plus a love for God and his word, and an interest in his kingdom], which shall not be taken away from her."
Regarding the above verses, James Burton Coffman said:

"… Much of the failure of modern Christianity lies in the fact that Christians are busy with all kinds of things, many of them important and necessary, of course; but yet they have no time for the word of the Lord [i.e., studying the Bible]."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/10-41.html, "Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible")

In addition, Albert Barnes ended his commentary on these verses by saying:

"… From this interesting narrative [story] we learn:

"1. That the cares of this life are dangerous, even when they seem to be most lawful and commendable [deserving of praise]. Nothing of a worldly nature could have been more proper than to provide for the Lord Jesus and supply his wants. Yet even 'for this,' because it too much engrossed [occupied] her mind, the Lord Jesus gently reproved [corrected] Martha. So a care for our families may be the means of our neglecting religion and losing our souls.

"2. It is of more importance to attend to the instructions of the Lord Jesus than to be engaged in the affairs of the world. The one [regarding attending to the instruction of Jesus] will abide [continue] forever; the other [one, regarding the affairs of the world,] will be but for a little time.

"3. There 'are' times when it is proper to suspend [temporarily stop] worldly employments [activities], and to attend to the affairs of the soul. It 'was' proper for Mary to do it. It would have been proper for Martha to have done it. It 'is' proper for all [people] [to do it] on the Sabbath and at other occasional seasons - seasons of prayer and for searching the word of God [i.e., the Bible] - to suspend worldly concerns and to attend to religion.

"4. If attention to religion be [or 'is'] omitted [left out] at 'the proper time,' it will always be omitted. If Mary had neglected to hear Jesus 'then,' she might never have heard him.

"5. Piety [reverence for God] is the chief [most important] thing needed. Other things will perish [come to an end]. We shall soon die. All that we can gain we must leave [behind]. But the 'soul' will live. There is a judgment-seat; there is a heaven; there is a hell; and 'all' that is needful to prepare us to die, and to make us happy forever, is to be a friend of Jesus, and to listen to his teaching.

"6. Piety is the chief ornament in a female. It sweetens every other virtue; adorns every other grace; gives new loveliness to the tenderness, mildness, and grace of the female character. Nothing is more lovely than a female sitting at the feet of the meek and lowly [humble and gentle] Jesus, like Mary; nothing more unlovely than entire absorption in the affairs of the world, like Martha. The most lovely female is she who has most of the spirit of Jesus; the least amiable [or 'the least friendly and sociable'] [female is], she who neglects her soul - who is proud, frivolous [carefree], thoughtless, envious, and unlike the meek and lowly Redeemer [Jesus]. At his [Jesus'] feet are peace, purity, joy. Everywhere else an alluring [strongly attractive, seductive] and wicked world steals the affections and renders us vain [useless, unsuccessful], frivolous, wicked, proud, and unwilling to die."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-10.html, "Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible," "Verse 42")

AUGUST 23
Ecclesiastes 5:4, 5

Making Promises to God

Ecclesiastes 5:4: "When thou vowest a vow [or 'when you make a solemn (sincere) promise'] unto God [either silently or out loud], defer not to pay it [in other words, don't wait to keep that promise until a later time or indefinitely; do it right away]; for he [God] hath [has] no pleasure [or 'no delight'] in fools: pay that which thou hast [or 'you have'] vowed."

Ecclesiastes 5:5: "Better is it [or 'it is better'] that thou shouldest not vow [or 'that you should not make a promise to God at all'], than that thou shouldest vow [make a promise to God] and not pay [see note below*]."
*An example of making a vow to God and not paying it would be if you were in trouble and prayed something like this: "Lord, if you help (or save or rescue) me this one time, I'll start going to church" (or "start reading the Bible," etc.). And then, after things turned out okay, you didn't keep your promise.

Here are some articles about promises::

-- "Will God forgive me for breaking a vow I made to Him?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/breaking-a-vow.html)

-- "Should a Christian make a promise?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-promise.html)

AUGUST 22
Colossians 1:16, 17

Jesus Created Everything

Colossians 1:16: "For by him [Jesus] were all things created [out of nothing], [all things] that are in heaven [or 'in the heavens,' meaning everything in the universe], and [all things] that are in [and on the] earth, [both] visible [able to be seen] and invisible [hidden, unable to be seen], whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers [see note below*]: all things were created by him [Jesus], and for him [i.e., for his pleasure, glory, and service]:"

Colossians 1:17: "And he [Jesus] is [was in existence, or existed] before all things, and by him [by his power] all things consist [or 'are composed (made up), are preserved, are kept together, and continue in existence']."
*According to Matthew Henry's commentary, the invisible things in verse 16 (thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers) refer to several orders (classes or ranks) of angels.

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/colossians/1.html, "Verses 12-29," "v. 16")

Here are some GotQuestions.org articles that relate to today's verses:

-- "What does it mean that Jesus created all things visible and invisible (Colossians 1:16)?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/all-things-visible-and-invisible.html)

-- "What does it mean that all things were created through Him and for Him (Colossians 1:16)?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/all-things-created-through-Him-for-Him.html)

-- "What does it mean that in Him all things consist (Colossians 1:17)?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/in-Him-all-things-consist.html)

AUGUST 21
1 Peter 1:18, 19

Only the Lord Jesus Christ Can Save Us From Hell

In a letter to Christians in Asia Minor, the apostle Peter wrote these verses to explain why believers should try to live lives that are pleasing to God (see 1 Peter 1:15):

1 Peter 1:18: "Forasmuch as [or 'because'] ye [you] know that ye were not redeemed [ransomed (rescued) from sin and death, meaning the gift of eternal life was not obtained, paid for, bought] with corruptible things [i.e., those that are capable of being corrupted or are subject to decay and destruction], as [like] silver and gold [or 'money'], [or] from [by] your vain conversation [i.e., your fruitless (useless) behavior] received by tradition from your fathers [or 'your ancestors,' referring to customs and beliefs (especially religious ones, like the worshiping of idols) that have been passed down from generation to generation];"

1 Peter 1:19: "But [you were redeemed] with the precious blood of Christ [Jesus,] [who died once on the cross to pay for the sins of all people (per Hebrews 9:25,26 and 1 John 2:2)], as of a lamb without blemish and without spot [meaning just like the innocent lambs and other animals (having no imperfections or defects) that were sacrificed on a daily basis to pay for the sins of the Jewish people in Old Testament times--see note below*]:"
In other words, eternal life is FREE and can't be bought. It's a gift from God, paid for with the blood that Jesus shed on the cross on the day that he was crucified. It's offered to all people but can only be received by faith, not works, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9.
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If you want to be saved God's way but don't know how, visit the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website. You'll find it here: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

*For information on animal sacrifices, read "Why did God require animal sacrifices in the Old Testament?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/animal-sacrifices.html.

This is the GotQuestions.org article that relates to today's verse: "What does it mean that we were not redeemed with corruptible things (1 Peter 1:18)?" If you want to read it, click on this link: https://www.gotquestions.org/not-redeemed-with-corruptible-things.html.

AUGUST 20

Romans 12:17: "Recompense [repay, return] to no man [or 'person'] evil [words or deeds] for evil [words or deeds]. Provide things honest [honorable] in the sight of all men [or 'people']."
We shouldn't "recompense … evil for evil" because, according to the Bible (i.e., Romans 12:19, Deuteronomy 32:35, and other verses),  revenge is up to God, not us. Instead of retaliating or seeking revenge, we should treat everyone with kindness, patience, and respect and always try to do what is right.

The GotQuestions.org article that relates to today's verse is entitled "What does it mean that we are to repay no one evil for evil (Romans 12:17)?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/repay-no-one-evil-for-evil.html.

AUGUST 19
Proverbs 19:18

This is a warning to parents from King Solomon:

Proverbs 19:18: "Chasten [correct, punish, discipline] thy [your] son [or daughter] [the Bible way--see note below*] while there is hope [that your child's behavior will change and that his (or her) future life will be good], and let not thy soul spare for [or 'don't withhold spankings due to, or because of,'] his [or her] crying."
The Bible tells us to discipline our children the proper way (as explained in Pastor Jim Delany's commentary--see note below*) when they are young, before they become adults, develop bad habits, make friends with bad people, and get into trouble. As the saying goes," You can't teach an old dog new tricks."

Regarding disciplining children while they are young, one Bible commentator wrote:

"'Better [that] the child is corrected by a parent than by a law enforcement officer [such as a policeman] in a correctional institution [e.g., prison, jail, etc.] …'"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/19-18.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")

In his commentary on today's verse, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church says that spanking (using "a switch [a flexible branch] from a tree, etc. NOT a baseball bat or anything that would harm him physically" so as "to make the spanking STING") is the biblical way of disciplining our children.
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If you want to read the above commentary, click on https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/, then scroll down to "19:18."

*For detailed information about the biblical form of spanking, including why, how, and when it should be done, see Pastor Delany's excellent commentary entitled "The Benefits of Corporal Punishment," which can be found by going to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and then scrolling down to "23:13B-14."

Here are two GotQuestions.org articles about correcting children's behavior:

-- "What does the Bible say about disobedient children?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/disobedient-children.html)

-- "How should Christians discipline their children?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/disciplining-children.html)

AUGUST 17-18
2 Thessalonians 3:10

In a letter to the church of the Thessalonians, the apostle Paul wrote:

2 Thessalonians 3:10: "For even when we [Paul, Silas, and Timothy] were with you [in person], this we commanded you, that if any[one] would not work [or 'refuses to work for a living, if he (or she) is able to do so'], neither should he [or she] eat [at public expense]."
In other words, laziness should not be excused or rewarded.

According to Donald C. Flemming:

 "… If people refuse to work, others should not support them, because this only encourages them to remain idle [lazy, inactive, not working] … These people are not only an unnecessary financial burden, but because they have nothing to do, they become nuisances and busybodies …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/2-thessalonians/3-10.html, "Bridgeway Bible Commentary")

Regarding 2 Thessalonians 3:10, Albert Barnes wrote:

"… That if any would not work, neither should he eat - … The law here laid down by the apostle [Paul] extends to all who are able to work for a living, and who will not do it, and [it] binds us not to contribute to their support if they will not labor [work] for it [the support, or money]. It should be regarded as extending:

"(1)To the members of a church - who, though poor, should not be supported by their brethren [fellow Christians], unless they are willing to work in any way they can for their own maintenance.

"(2)To those who beg from door to door, who should never be assisted unless they are willing to do all they can do for their own support. No one can be justified in assisting a lazy man [or woman]. In no possible circumstances are we to contribute to foster indolence [or 'encourage laziness']. A man [or woman] might as properly [or 'may just as well'] help to maintain open vice [immoral or wicked behavior]."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/2-thessalonians-3.html, "Verse 10")

Applying today's verse to Christians, in "The Biblical Illustrator," another Bible commentator told the following story:

"Here is a large vineyard. Many men and maidens [young women] are busy on the hillside. They are coming and going, and singing the vintage songs [perhaps referring to songs from the year that the wine was being produced or before that]. Here is the master. He sees that the rules are kept. There must be no disorder, no profanity [swearing]. Each [worker] must keep his [or her] place. The baskets must be clean. The master is counting the baskets that are brought to the vats. After each name he writes the number of baskets brought.

"At last the week is ended, and the men and maidens come to receive their pay. Here among them is a man whom the master has been watching day by day [or 'each day']. He kept his basket clean; he kept his place; he used no profane language; he enjoyed the companionship of the others; he joined merrily in the vintage songs. But in all this time he gathered no grapes. 'What is your name?' says the master. 'Menalque,' says the man. 'I find your name upon [or 'in'] the book,' replies the master, 'but I do not find that you gathered a single cluster [of grapes]; there is therefore no pay for you.' 'No pay?' says the man. 'What have I done wrong? I have kept my place, used no improper language, kept my basket clean, and joined heartily [wholeheartedly, enthusiastically] in the songs.' 'You did no wrong,' says the master, 'but you did no work. There is nothing for you.' 'No pay for me!' exclaimed the man. 'Why, that is the one thing I came in the vineyard for. The pay constituted [formed the basis of] my chief interest in it.'

"Is not this the history of thousands [of born-again Christians] in the Lord's [or 'God's'] vineyard? They [the Christians] come [to the 'vineyard'], their names are upon [or 'written in'] the book [of life]. They do no special wrong; they do not swear, or steal, or commit adultery. They break no rule. They sing the vintage songs [probably, in this case, Christian hymns]. They hear sermons, if they are entertaining [or interesting]. They attend church, if it is quite convenient. But are they in any true sense labourers [laborers, workers] in God's vineyard? Have they done any honest work for [Jesus] Christ and His Church? Have they performed one hard task, done one unpleasant duty, spoken one brave word, lifted [or 'extended compassion, support, and guidance to'] one fallen sinner, lightened one heavy burden, crucified one loved comfort [or 'stopped doing something they loved to do'], or done any one thing or series of things that would justly entitle them to the name of labourer, or the hope of reward when the great day of reckoning [in heaven, at the Judgment Seat of Christ, when Christians receive their eternal rewards--see note below*] comes? …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/tbi/2-thessalonians-3.html, "Verse 10," "No work, no pay")

The GotQuestions.org article relating to today's verse is entitled "What does it mean that the one who is unwilling to work shall not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10)?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/2-Thessalonians-3-10-no-work-eat.html.

*GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What is the judgment seat of Christ?" If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/judgment-seat-Christ.html.

AUGUST 16
1 Chronicles 29:11, 12, 13

King David Praises God

1 Chronicles 29:11: "Thine [yours, or 'belonging to you'], O LORD, is the greatness, and the power [strength], and the glory [beauty], and the victory, and the majesty [splendor]: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art [you are] exalted [honored, lifted up, held in high regard] as head [or 'in a leadership position'] above all [people and things]."

1 Chronicles 29:12: "Both riches and honour [honor] come of thee [or 'from you'], and thou reignest [you reign, or 'you are the ruler'] over all [people and things, both on earth and in heaven]; and in thine [your] hand is power and might [strength]; and in thine hand [or 'with your hand'] it is [or 'you are able'] to make great, and to give strength unto all [people]."

1 Chronicles 29:13: "Now therefore, our God, we thank thee [you] [for your blessings], and [we] praise thy [your] glorious [wonderful] name."
That is so true! Following King David's example, we should remember to thank and praise God, not only for who he is but also for all that he has done in the past, is doing in the present, and will do in the future.

AUGUST 15
Matthew 22:36, 37, 38, 39, 40

The Most Important Commandments, According to Jesus

While Jesus was preaching to his followers, one of the Pharisees (a lawyer, or interpreter and teacher of the Mosaic law) asked him:

Matthew 22:36: "Master [a title commonly used for Jesus], which is the great [greatest] commandment in the law [of Moses, including the Ten Commandments]?"

Matthew 22:37-38: "Jesus said unto him [the Pharisee], Thou shalt [you shall] love the Lord thy [your] God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind [which Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy 6:5 and which means that we should love God supremely--above everything else]. This is the first and great [most important] commandment [of God]."

Matthew 22:39: "And the second [commandment of God, as quoted from Leviticus 19:18,] is like unto it [the first commandment (stated above), and it says], Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself [i.e., you should love everyone else as much as you love yourself]."

Matthew 22:40: "On these two commandments [regarding loving God and loving others] hang all the law and the prophets [in other words, love is the basis of all of the teachings, in the Old Testament, of Moses and the prophets]."
"What is the greatest commandment?" is the GotQuestions.org article that relates to today's verses. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/greatest-commandment.html.

AUGUST 10-14
Luke 10:17, 18, 19, 20

Jesus Sends His Disciples to Preach the Gospel and Heal the Sick

The following event occurred after Jesus sent seventy of his disciples (followers), in pairs (groups of two), into every city where he was planning to go, and they found that, in addition to healing sick people, they were able to cast out demons.

Luke 10:17: "And the seventy [disciples] returned again [to Jesus] with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto [or 'are in subjection to'] us through thy [your] name [meaning the demons had obeyed when the disciples commanded them, in Jesus' name (and by his authority), to come out of people who were demonically possessed]."

Luke 10:18: "And he [Jesus] said unto them [the disciples], I beheld [saw] Satan as [quickly as a flash of] lightning fall from heaven [which could have meant that: (1) in his mind, Jesus saw the devils leave immediately when they were cast out by his disciples; (2) he was remembering the time when Satan and his followers (the wicked angels) were thrown out of heaven for rebelling against God (see Note 1 below); (3) he was referring to the power of the gospel to defeat (overthrow) Satan's kingdom on earth]."

Luke 10:19: "Behold, I [Jesus] [also] give unto you [disciples] power to tread [step, trample] on serpents [snakes] and scorpions [described in Note 2 below] [in other words, Jesus promised that none of the seventy disciples would be harmed if they were bitten or stung by these types of poisonous creatures], and [I (Jesus) give you power to tread] over all [of] the power of the enemy [meaning they would be victorious over Satan and his servants (demons, false teachers, etc.)]: and nothing [and no one] shall by any means hurt you."

Luke 10:20: "Notwithstanding [nevertheless] in this [thing, or for this reason] rejoice not [don't rejoice or be overly glad or happy], [i.e.,] that the [evil] spirits are subject unto you [or 'obey you']; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven [in the Lamb's book of life--see Note 3 below]."
Not all Christians are able to tread on serpents and scorpions without harm, as the seventy disciples in Luke 10:19 did, but, with God's help, we should be able to tread over all the power of the enemy.

Regarding Luke 10:19, John Gill said:

"and nothing shall by any means, hurt you; not the most hurtful and poisonous animals, nor the most malicious persecutors on earth [referring to people who intend to harm others], nor all the devils in hell: as the former venomous creatures [i.e., serpents and scorpions], when took up in their hands [referring to the hands of the seventy disciples], should not hurt, their bodies; so the other [things--malicious persecutors and devils], whatever they might be permitted to do with respect to their [the disciples'] lives, and outward estate [i.e., material possessions, such as property and money], should never hurt their souls [see Note 4 below], and the eternal welfare of them; nor even hinder [prevent] the work of God [from] prospering [flourishing, thriving, being successful] in their hands."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/10-19.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

The names of the seventy disciples in Luke 10:20 were "written in heaven" because all of these men were born again, or saved from hell, according to the Bible.
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Has your name been written in the Lamb's book of life? If you're saved, the answer is yes. If not, this is what you must do:

1. Believe that Jesus (the Son of God and Messiah) died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

2. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.

If you ask Jesus to save you, and your prayer is sincere (i.e., you really mean what you say), your name will be written in the Lamb's  book of life.
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For a more detailed explanation of the plan of salvation, please read one or more of the gospel tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

NOTE 1:

GotQuestions.org's answer ro the question "What did Jesus mean when He said, 'I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven' in Luke 10:18?" can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Satan-fall-like-lightning.html.

NOTE 2:

Definition of scorpion, according to Albert Barnes:

"The scorpion is an animal with eight feet, eight eyes and a long jointed tail, ending in a pointed weapon or sting. It is found in tropical climates, and seldom [not often, rarely] exceeds 4 inches in length. Its sting is extremely poisonous, and it is sometimes fatal [deadly] to life. It is in Scripture [or 'In the Bible, it is'] the emblem [symbol] of malicious and crafty [deceitful] men. When rolled up it [the scorpion] has some resemblance to an egg …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-10.html, "Verse 19")
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Since some churches currently practice snake handling, you may be wondering, "What does the Bible say about snake handling?" Click here to find out: https://www.gotquestions.org/snake-handling.html.

NOTE 3:

Jesus is called the "Lamb of God" because he was the "perfect and ultimate sacrifice for sin." This is explained in detail in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "What does it mean that Jesus is the Lamb of God?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-Lamb-of-God.html.

NOTE 4:

"What is the human soul?" is answered in the GotQuestions.org article by the same name. To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/human-soul.html.

AUGUST 8-9
Ecclesiastes 7:8

Patience Pays Off

Ecclesiastes 7:8: "Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof [i.e., sometimes bad things that happen turn into good]: and the [person who is] patient in spirit is better than the [person who is] proud in spirit [which means that it's better to be patient than proud]."
One Bible commentator told the following story to illustrate (explain, help people understand) the above verse:

"The lion was caught in the toils [nets, traps] of the hunter. The more he tugged, the more his feet got entangled; when a little mouse heard his roaring, and said that if his majesty [the lion] would not hurt him, he thought he could release him. At first the king of beasts [the lion] took no notice of such a contemptible ally [or 'strongly disliked helper,' referring to the mouse]; but at last, like other proud spirits in trouble, he allowed his tiny friend to do as he pleased. So one by one the mouse nibbled through the cords till he had set free first one foot and then another, and then all the four [feet of the lion], and with a growl of hearty gratitude [or 'a deep sense of thankfulness'] the king of the forest [i.e., the lion] acknowledged that the patient in spirit [or 'someone who is patient,' like the mouse] is sometimes stronger than the proud in spirit [or 'someone who is proud,,' like the lion] …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/tbi/ecclesiastes-7.html, "The Biblical Illustrator," "Verse 8," "The power of patience")

AUGUST 7
Psalm 33:20

This was written by an unknown author, perhaps King David, to the people of God (i.e., the nation of Israel in the Old Testament, and born-again Christians in the New Testament--see note below*).

Psalm 33:20: "Our soul waiteth [waits] for [or 'we wait for, or depend on,'] the LORD [God]: he is our help [or 'helper,' because he provides aid and assistance when necessary] and [he is also] our shield [because he defends us from our enemies and protects us from harm]."
*Some interesting articles, especially the third:

-- "What does it mean that the Jews are God's chosen people?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Gods-chosen-people.html)

-- "Are Jews saved because they are God's chosen people?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Jews-saved.html)

-- "Is Israel still God's chosen people?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Israel-still-chosen-people.html)

AUGUST 6
Titus 2:11, 12

How God Wants Christians to Live

Titus 2:11: "For the grace [kindness, unmerited (undeserved) favor] of God that bringeth [brings] [the plan of] salvation hath [has] appeared [been revealed] to all men [and women and children, which means all people or classes of people--Jews/gentiles, males/females, masters/servants, old/young, rich/poor, wise/foolish, etc.],"

Titus 2:12: "Teaching us [or 'the grace of God teaches us'] [born-again Christians] that, denying [renouncing, rejecting, giving up, refusing to be associated with] ungodliness [i.e., all things contrary (or in opposition) to God, including atheism, idolatry, and false religions] and worldly lusts [such as ambition, pride, and/or a desire for riches, pleasure, honor, etc.], we should live soberly [calmly, seriously--by exercising self-control], [and] righteously [justly, fairly--by treating people in a way that is considered morally right)], and godly [by honoring and obeying God], in this present world;"

AUGUST 3-5
Luke 14:12, 13, 14, 15

While Attending a Dinner Party, Jesus Teaches a Lesson on Charity

Luke 14:12: "Then said he [Jesus] also to him [one of the chief Pharisees, a member of the Sanhedrin,] that bade him [or 'who had invited him' (Jesus)] [to his house to eat], When thou makest [or 'when you make, or plan to have'] a dinner or a supper [party], call not thy [or 'don't just invite your'] friends, nor thy brethren [brothers, family members], neither thy kinsmen [relatives], nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again [or 'because they'll probably do the same thing back to you' (i.e., invite you to their 'party')], and a recompence [a return favor] [will] be made [to] thee [you]."

Luke 14:13-14: "But when thou makest a feast [or banquet, or when you have a dinner party], call [invite] the poor [people], the maimed [people--those with severe injuries or missing limbs (arms, legs)], the lame [people--who limp or walk with difficulty], the blind [people]: And thou shalt [you shall] be blessed [both by God in heaven on judgment day and in the happiness you receive here on earth by doing good]; for they [those who are poor, maimed, lame, and blind] cannot recompense [repay] thee: for thou shalt be recompensed [rewarded] at the resurrection [rising up from the dead] of the just [or 'righteous people'-- in this case, referring to born-again Christians who have died]."

Luke 14:15: "And when one of them [i.e., one of the other guests] that sat at meat [or 'who sat at the table to eat'] with him [Jesus] heard these things [that were said], he said unto him [Jesus], Blessed is he [or she] that shall eat bread [or 'enjoy a good meal'] in the kingdom of God [i.e., in heaven]."
Regarding the above verse, Peter Pett, a Bible commentator, wrote:

"The [Bible] passage begins with Jesus suggesting to His host … that when next time he makes a supper or dinner he should not invite those who will return his invitation and thus recompense [repay] him for what he has done. For there is no goodness in that. It is simply a part of the social round. It may earn him a reputation as being a good host, but it will earn no plaudits [applause] from God.

"Jesus is not, of course, discouraging family gatherings. He is rather using them to get over [or 'get across'] His point that the poor and needy [people] should not be overlooked, and that what we do for them counts even more than what we do in this way for our families …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/pet/luke-14.html, "Pett's Commentary on the Bible," "Verse 12")

In addition, John Gill wrote that the phrase call the poor, the maimed, the lame, and the blind in Luke 14:13 means:

 "… the poor maimed, the poor lame, and the poor blind; otherwise it is possible that rich men may be maimed, lame, and blind; whereas these are not intended, but such who are in indigent circumstances [meaning they are unable to afford the necessities of life], that stand in need of a meal, and to whom it [the food] is welcome."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/14-13.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

Although not actually related to today's verses, here are two GotQuestions.org articles about giving to homeless people:

-- "What does the Bible say about being homeless / homelessness?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-homeless.html)

-- "How should a Christian respond to beggars?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-beggars.html)

AUGUST 2

Isaiah 40:8: "The grass withereth [withers, dries up], the flower fadeth [fades, loses its color and dies]: but the word of our God [as recorded in the Bible] shall stand [strong, reliable, and true … and its wisdom, promises, etc.,  may be counted on and trusted in] for ever."
Earthly things are just temporary, but spiritual things are eternal, which means they last forever.

Commenting on the flowers from her daughter's wedding, which had begun to wither and fade, Karol Ladd wrote on her blog:

"… Certainly flowers are wonderful to enjoy, but they are also a reminder of how temporary most things are in life. We need to build our lives on what is lasting. The principles in God's word will never fade away, and when we walk according to His ways we experience beauty in life. In our current culture some of God's principles are frowned upon, yet their truth stands the test of time …"

(Source: https://positivewomanconnection.com/2010/06/14/flowers-fade-but/)

GotQuestions.org has an article relating to today's verse. It's called "What does it mean that the grass withers and the flowers fade, but the Word of the Lord endures forever (Isaiah 40:8)?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/grass-withers-flowers-fade.html.

AUGUST 1

Genesis 2:7: "And the LORD God formed [created] man [Adam, the first man] of the dust of the ground [i.e., from the soil … or clay, since the dust (dirt) was probably moistened (made slightly wet) by the mist that went up from the earth in the Garden of Eden], and breathed into his nostrils [his nose] the breath of life; and man [Adam] became a living soul [or person]."
Here are two GotQuestions.org articles relating to today's verse:

-- "Why did God make man out of the dust of the earth (Genesis 2:7)?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/dust-of-the-earth.html)

-- "What is the breath of life?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/breath-of-life.html)