Notes from Linda:
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."
____________________
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.
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
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"Verse of the Day"
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Previous Verses
October 2025
OCTOBER 29-31
Proverbs 29:7
Proverbs 29:7: "The righteous [people] considereth [consider, pay attention to] the cause [condition] of the poor [people]: but the wicked [people] regardeth [regard] not [or 'do not desire' or 'do not want'] to know it."
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Regarding injustice in the legal system, Pastor Delany said:
"This has always been a problem -- from [King] Solomon's [day; i.e., the time in which he was living] to our day: wealthy [people] get let off the hook for crimes they did commit and the poor go to prison for crimes they didn't commit. … That is injustice in the legal setting."
According to Pastor Delany, "The righteous man is concerned about the legal rights of the poor - that they not be oppressed by the strong and wealthy [people] in society."
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"6. 'Considering' the moral cause of the poor:
"a. Considering the 'cause' of the poor from a moral sense rather than [a] legal [sense] brings up the issue of the poverty itself.
"b. A righteous man will be aware of the issue of poverty.
"c. A righteous man will be concerned about the plight [i.e., the difficult, unfortunate, or dangerous situation] of the poor.
"d. A righteous man is sympathetic towards their needs.
"e. A righteous man will not only be aware of their cause, but will seek to DO something about it.
"f. I John 3:17 -- "But whoso [whoever] hath [has] this world's good, and seeth [sees] his brother [or friend, other relative, neighbor, etc.] have need, and shutteth [shuts] up his bowels of compassion [such as empathy and kindness] from him, how dwelleth the love of God [or 'how does the love of God dwell'] in him?"
"g. Righteous men have hearts for the poor and needy [people].
"• Sympathy towards the poor is an acknowledgement of the grace of God in our lives.
"• It acknowledges: 'there but for the grace of God go I.'
"h. We know that the poor will always be here; but when God brings a situation to our doorstep--especially a brother [or sister] in Christ [or 'another Christian]--the love of God demands that we respond.
"i. There is a special BLESSING upon those who consider the cause of the poor and [who] help:
"• Ps. 41:1 -- 'Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.' (Read vs. 2-4 [i.e., Psalm 41:2,3,4]-- God will take care of those who consider the poor.)"
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"7b But the wicked regardeth not to know it.
"1. What a contrast between the righteous and the wicked.
"a. The righteous man regards the cause of the poor… the rights of the poor legally as well as caring about their plight… poverty.
"b. The wicked man chooses not to regard it. He ignores it.
"c. He [the wicked man] chooses to look the other way -- like the priest and the Levite who saw the man beaten on the side of the road, and crossed to the other side so they wouldn't have to consider his cause… while the good Samaritan stopped to help. [Read the story of the Good Samaritan here: https://www.gotquestions.org/parable-Good-Samaritan.html.]
"2. God warns the wicked of his wicked ways in Psalm 1:6 -- 'For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.'
"3. Just as there is a blessing for considering the poor, there is also a curse for ignoring their plight.
"a. Prov. 21:13 -- 'Whoso stoppeth [stops up, shuts] his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.'
"• Stopping one's ears implies he has full knowledge, but refuses to listen… or see their plight.
"• The wicked will stop his ears to their cries.
"4. Prov. 14:31 -- 'He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker [i.e., God]: but he that honoureth him [God] hath [has] mercy on the poor.'
"a. God takes that [thing--oppressing and honoring the poor] seriously.
"b. When the rich and powerful [people] trample over the poor and the weak [ones], God notices.
"• What is His [God's] estimate? It is like reproaching Him personally…
"• He [God] is the Maker [Creator] of both the rich and the poor.
"• Note the reverse in this proverb: He who honors God will show mercy to the poor. Showing mercy to the poor is a way to honor God.
"• Compassion for others flows out of a heart that is in a right relationship to the Lord.
"5. Consider the contrast between Shallum (also known as -- Jehoahaz) and his father Josiah, king of Judah with respect to the treatment of the poor.
"a. Jer. 22:15-17 -- 'Shalt thou [shall you] reign, because thou closest thyself in cedar [probably meaning 'heat of anger' and referring to his anger and jealousy]? did not thy [your] father [King Josiah] eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, and then it was well with him? 16He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know me [God]? saith [said] the LORD. 17But thine [your] eyes and thine heart are not but for thy [your] covetousness [greed], and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it.'
"b. Josiah was a godly king… he defended the rights of the poor [people] and provided for their needs.
"c. On the other hand, his son Shallum was an ungodly (wicked) king. He did not consider the cause of the poor; he oppressed them and took advantage of them.
"• He ended up in captivity in Egypt.
"• Vs. 18-19 [i.e., Jeremiah 22:18-19]-- Jeremiah predicted that no one would mourn his [King Shallum's] death. There would be no lavish [elaborate, extravagant] burial… but it would be like the burial of a donkey!
"6. God is watching. God is still aware of the fact that 'the righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.'"
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If you want to read more of the above commentary, go to www.salembible.org/Proverbs/ and scroll down to "29:7."
-- "What is the social gospel?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/social-gospel.html)
-- "Should a Christian go on welfare?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-welfare.html)
OCTOBER 26-28
Matthew 21:22
After cursing a fig tree that had leaves but no fruit, Jesus said to his twelve disciples (apostles):
Matthew 21:22: "And all things, whatsoever ye [you] shall ask [for] in prayer, believing [that your prayer will be heard by God and will be answered according to his will], ye shall receive."
"And all things … -- He [Jesus] adds an encouragement for them [the apostles] to pray, assuring them that they should have all things which they asked.
"This promise was evidently a special one, given to them [Jesus' apostles] in regard to working miracles. To them it was true, but it is manifest [clear, obvious] that we have no right to apply this promise to ourselves. It was desired especially for the apostles; nor have we a right to turn it [the promise] from its original meaning. There are other promises in, abundance [or 'there are many other promises'] on which we 'may' rely in prayer, with confident assurance that our prayers will be heard …"
Then Mr. Barnes gives Matthew 7:7-11 as one example of the Bible's promise that our prayers will be answered. (Click here to read that passage in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%207%3A7-11&version=KJV.)
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-21.html, "Verses 12-22")
"Matthew 21:22 assumes what Jesus taught elsewhere about prayer, namely, that God will grant [or 'say yes' to] the petitions [requests] of His people when they are in harmony [agreement] with His will (Matthew 6:9-13; Matthew 7:7-11; cf. [compare] John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23-24; 1 John 5:14-15). His [Matthew's] point was that when we pray we should believe that God can do anything we request and that He will do what is consistent [or 'in agreement'] with His will and what He has promised to do …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/21-21.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")
OCTOBER 25
Proverbs 25:4, 5
How to Have Righteous (Good, Moral) Governments
King Solomon wrote this in the book of Proverbs:
Proverbs 25:4 [The illustration]: "Take away [remove] the dross [impurities] from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel [such as a cup or dish] for [from, or made by] the finer [refiner, silversmith]."
Proverbs 25:5 [The application]: "Take away the wicked [counselors, advisors, etc.--specifically, those who are dishonest and perhaps involved in criminal activity] from before the king [or other ruler (such as a prime minister, president, etc.)], and his [or her] throne [government] shall be established in righteousness [justice]."
• "… a wise king will seek [attempt, try] to remove all corruption. It must not be tolerated. It will destroy his reign and his throne--and perhaps the country!"
• "… when corruption is removed, the king's throne is established: Firmly set in place; stable; firm; unmovable!"
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Here are some excerpts from the section of the pastor's commentary entitled "And his throne shall be established in righteousness.":
"g. What a contrast to [or 'difference in'] the thinking of most politicians today.
"• We seem to have the idea that if a president wants to establish his administration, he needs to build up political power by trampling over the other party [such as, in the United States, the Republicans or Democrats], by bullying [them], and asserting himself [i.e., acting boldly or forcefully]
"• Solomon states that an administration is made strong through moral purity.
"• If evil men and their corrupt ways are removed, then the king's throne WILL be established.
"• It will have authenticated [proven] itself as valid. Thus the people will trust the king and want him to succeed. He will have the full support of his people if he has the TRUST of the people.
"• When the people see corruption, they begin to distrust their leader and he loses their support.
"• When a leader loses the support of his people, then his throne is not established. It is weakened!
"• People will not stand behind, sacrifice for, or risk their lives to protect a throne that they do not trust.
"• Nobody likes being lied to or cheated. But when the people trust their leaders, they will 'establish their [leaders'] throne.'"
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"i. A throne that has been cleansed of corruption is like a fine vessel: beautiful, practical, valuable, and highly prized! It will be strong and stable too."
"k. This principle applies to other areas of life as well.
"• This is true of a business too. If the customer base thinks the company is cheating them or being dishonest, they will not support the company or buy their products.
"• This is true of a local church too. People are very forgiving with honest mistakes, but if they detect dishonesty in the leadership, it will not be tolerated. The church will not be established and strengthened, but weakened.
"• This is applicable to us as individuals too. If people discover that you are dishonest, or that you cheat, or lie, or gossip behind their backs, or if your word cannot be trusted, your relationships will not be strong, firm, and established. They will be weak, fall apart, and you will lose friends daily.
"• Righteousness (honesty; purity; decency) establishes the throne--but it also has a strengthening effect in our personal lives and in our relationships with each other."
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If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "25:4-5."
OCTOBER 24
Acts 8:12: "But when they [the people in a city of Samaria] believed Philip [a deacon/evangelist (not the apostle)] [who was] preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God [which means that Philip had been preaching about heaven], and the name of Jesus Christ [i.e., how to be saved, which is through faith, not works--by believing that Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and by receiving (trusting) him as our personal Savior, not by doing good works (good deeds, good things], they were baptized [by immersion, which means their bodies were submerged in water--see note below*], both men and women."
-- "What is the proper mode of baptism?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/baptism-mode.html)
-- "What is the symbolism of water baptism?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/water-baptism.html)
-- "What is the Catholic understanding of baptism?
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-baptism.html)
OCTOBER 23
Jeremiah 32:26, 27
Jeremiah 32:26-27: "Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah [an Old Testament prophet] [which means that God spoke to Jeremiah] [while he was praying], saying, Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh [meaning he is the creator of all living things;,especially, in this case, referring to mankind, the human race, or 'all people']: is there any thing too hard for me [to do]? [The answer is: No!]"
"Jehovah [God] retorts [responds to] Jeremiah's own words [by saying]: I am, indeed, as thou sayest [or 'as you say'] …, the God and Creator of 'all flesh,' and 'nothing is too hard for Me:' thine [your] own words ought to have taught thee [you] that, though Judea and Jerusalem are given up [or 'surrendered'] to the Chaldeans now, for [or 'due to'] the sins of the Jews [i.e., worshiping idols, disobeying the commandments of God, etc.], yet it will not be hard to Me, when I please, to restore the state [of Israel], so that houses and lands therein shall be possessed in safety …."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/jfb/jeremiah-32.html, "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible," "Verse 27")
OCTOBER 21-22
Matthew 6:7
During his Sermon on the Mount (or 'mountain'), Jesus said:
Matthew 6:7: "But when ye [you] pray, use not [or 'do not use'] vain [useless] repetitions [in other words, don't keep repeating the same, memorized words over and over again, especially if you don't mean what you say], as [like] the heathen [people, which, in Bible times, referred to Gentiles, or non-Jews] do: for they think that they shall be heard [by God] for their much speaking [or 'long prayers']."
"Do not use a lot of meaningless words. It is not a torrent [or 'an emotional outpouring'] of prayer, nor long prayer which is forbidden (Jesus did both), but the making of the number of prayers said, their length, and the amount of time spent in prayer [is]--a thing of merit [i.e., something that deserves praise] … Some religious people still believe there is special merit in repeating certain prayers a set number of times."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/ice/matthew-6.html, "The Bible Study New Testament," "Verse 7")
OCTOBER 19-20
James 1:13, 14, 15
Don't Blame God When You Are Tempted to Sin
James 1:13: "Let no man [person] say when he [or she] is tempted [to sin], I am tempted of [or 'by'] God: for God cannot be tempted with [or 'to do'] evil [things], neither tempteth he [or 'neither does he tempt'] any man [or woman or child] [to do wrong]:"
James 1:14: "But every man [person] is tempted, when he [or she] is drawn away of [or 'lured by'] his [or her] own lust [intense desire for something], and [is] enticed [seduced, persuaded to do evil, led astray by promises of pleasure or profit]."
James 1:15: "Then when lust hath [has] conceived [taken over, meaning that when a desire or inclination is indulged (allowed) in an improper manner, as with adultery and fornication (sex outside of marriage), gluttony (eating too much), greed (desiring to be rich), covetousness (wanting what someone else has), etc.], it bringeth forth [brings forth, results in] sin: and sin, when it is finished [or 'committed,' especially when repeated and continued], bringeth forth death [or destruction; in other words, it will kill you or ruin your life]."
"neither tempteth he any man; … he [God] tempted Abraham [in a good way, meaning God tested Abraham], to try his faith, love, and obedience to him; he tempted the Israelites in the wilderness, to try them and humble them, and prove what was in their hearts; and he tempted Job, and tried his faith and patience; and so he tempts [in a good way] and tries all [of] his righteous ones [referring to saved people, or born-again Christians], by afflictions [such as pain, distress, or suffering], more or less: but he never tempts [in a bad way] or solicits [asks, pressures] them to sin …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/james/1-13.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")
"Every man is tempted (in an ill sense [or 'in a bad way']) when he is drawn [pulled] away [because] of his own lust, and enticed [attracted by something desirable]. In other scriptures the devil is called the tempter, and other things may sometimes concur [agree] to tempt us; but neither the devil nor any other person or thing is to be blamed so as to excuse ourselves; for the true original [origin?] of evil and temptation is in our own hearts. The combustible [flammable] matter is in us, though the flame may be blown up by some outward causes."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/james/1.html, "Verses 13-18", "(v. 14)")
"Then when lust hath conceived - … As our desires of good lie in the mind by nature, as our propensities [inclinations, natural tendencies] exist as they were created, they cannot be regarded as sin, or [be] treated as such; but when they are indulged, when plans of gratification [or 'achieving satisfaction'] are formed, when they are developed in actual life, the effect is sin. In the mere [simple] desire of good, of happiness, of food, of raiment [clothing], there is no sin; it becomes sin when indulged in an improper manner, and when it leads us to seek that which is forbidden - to invade the rights of others, or in any way to violate [break] the laws of God."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-1.html, "Verse 15")
OCTOBER 18
1 Corinthians 10:14
In a letter to the Christian church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:
1 Corinthians 10:14: "Wherefore [therefore; i.e., to avoid temptation and sin], my dearly beloved [Christians], flee [run away] from idolatry [which is the worship of, or excessive devotion to, people (such as the virgin Mary, saints, and the pope) and/or things (statues, images, false gods, etc.) instead of the one true God]."
-- "What is the definition of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-definition.html)
-- "Is religious iconography considered idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/religious-iconography.html)
-- "What are some modern forms of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html)
-- "Why is idol worship such a powerful temptation?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idol-worship.html)
-- "Is worship of saints / Mary biblical?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/worship-saints-Mary.html)
-- "Do Catholics worship idols / practice idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-idolatry.html)
OCTOBER 17
Hebrews 11:6: "But without faith [i.e., without 'confidence' in God--in his fidelity (faithfulness, loyalty), truth, wisdom, promises, etc.,] it is impossible to please him [God]: for he [or she] that cometh [comes] to God [in worship and prayer] must believe that he [God] is [real] [i.e., that he exists], and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently [earnestly, sincerely] seek him [see note below*]."
-- "What does it mean that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/without-faith-impossible-please-God.html)
-- "What is the definition of faith?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/definition-of-faith.html)
OCTOBER 16
2 Timothy 3:12
In a letter to Timothy, a minister of the gospel, the apostle Paul warned:
2 Timothy 3:12: "Yea [yes], and all [people] that will live godly in Christ Jesus [referring to born-again Christians who obey the Bible and try to please God] shall suffer persecution [or 'can expect to be treated unfairly or unkindly by others due to their religious beliefs']."
OCTOBER 15
John 13:35
To his disciples at the Last Supper (i.e., the last meal that they ate together before Jesus was arrested and crucified), Jesus said:
John 13:35: "By this shall all men [people] know that ye [you] are my disciples [followers], if ye have love [brotherly love, affection, goodwill] one to another [or 'for other Christians']."
OCTOBER 12-14
Ephesians 6:4
In a letter to the church at Ephesus, the apostle Paul wrote:
Ephesians 6:4: "And, ye [you] fathers [and mothers], provoke not your children to wrath [which means don't make your children angry by saying mean things, having unreasonable rules, punishing from anger rather than love, etc.]: but bring them up in the nurture [training and education, instruction, discipline] and admonition [counsel, warning] of the Lord."
"… Avoid all severity [harshness]; this will hurt your own souls [or 'selves'], and [will] do them [the children] no good; on the contrary [or 'on the other hand'], if punished with severity or cruelty, they will be only hardened and made desperate in their sins. Cruel parents generally have bad children. …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/6-4.html, "Clarke's Commentary")
"Provoke not your children to wrath - That is, by unreasonable commands; by needless severity; by the manifestation [expression] of anger. So govern [influence, guide, and restrain] them, and so punish them - if punishment is necessary - that they shall not lose their confidence in you, but shall love you. The apostle [Paul] here has hit on the very danger to which parents are most exposed in the government [i.e., making decisions and directing the upbringing] of their children. It is that of souring their temper [or causing them to become irritable, bad-tempered, or gloomy]; of making them feel that the parent is under the influence of anger, and that it is right for them [the children] to be so [or 'to be angry'] too. This is done:
"(1) When the commands of a parent are unreasonable and severe. The spirit of a child then becomes irritated, and he is 'discouraged;' …
"(2) When a parent is evidently 'excited' when he punishes a child. The child then feels:
"(a)That if his 'father' is angry, it is not wrong for him to be angry; and,
"(b)The very fact of anger in a parent kindles [arouses, stirs up] anger in his bosom [chest, heart] - just as it does when two men are contending [arguing, fighting].
"If he [the child] submits in the case, it is only because the parent is the 'strongest,' not because he is 'right,' and the child cherishes [holds onto] 'anger,' while he yields [submits, surrenders] to power. There is no principle of parental government more important than that a father should command [control] his own temper when he inflicts punishment. He should punish a child not because he is 'angry,' but because it is 'right;' not because it has become a matter of 'personal contest,' but because God requires that he should do it, and the welfare [well-being] of the child demands it. The moment when a child seem that a parent punishes him under the influence of anger, that moment the child will be likely to be angry too - and his anger will be as proper as that of the parent. And yet, how often is punishment inflicted in this manner! And how often does the child feel that the parent punished him simply because he was the 'strongest,' not because it was 'right;' and how often is the mind of a child left with a strong conviction [belief] that wrong has been done him by the punishment which he has received, rather than with repentance [sincere regret or remorse] for the wrong that he has himself done."
"And admonition - … The sense here is, that they were to put them in mind of the Lord - of his existence, perfections, law, and claims on their hearts and lives. This command is positive, and is in accordance with all the requirements of the Bible on the subject. No one can doubt that the Bible enjoins [instructs, urges] on parents the duty of endeavoring [attempting] to train up their children in the ways of religion, and of making it the grand purpose of this life to prepare them for heaven. It has been often objected that children should be left on religious subjects to form their own opinions when they are able to judge for themselves. Infidels [unbelievers] and irreligious [non-religious] people always oppose or neglect the duty here enjoined [referring to a mandatory (required) obligation to do something]; and the plea [response] commonly is, that to teach religion to children is to make them prejudiced; to destroy their independence of mind; and to prevent their judging as impartially on so important a subject as they ought to. In reply to this, and in defense of the requirements of the Bible on the subject, we may remark:
"(1) That to suffer [allow] a child to grow up without any instruction in religion, is about the same as to suffer a garden to lie without any culture [or 'maintenance']. Such a garden would soon be overrun with weeds, and briars [prickly plants or shrubs], and thorns - but not sooner, or more certainly, than the mind of a child would.
"(2) People do instruct their children in a great many things, and why should they not [also do so] in religion? They teach them how to behave in [or 'around'] company; the art of farming; the way to make or use tools; how to make money; how to avoid the arts of the cunning seducer [or 'how to protect themselves from manipulation (influence or control), deceit (deception), and charm used by someone with an ulterior motive (a secret reason for doing something)']. But why should it not be said that all [of] this tends to destroy their independence, and to make them prejudiced? Why not leave their minds open and free, and suffer [permit] them to form their own judgments about farming and the mechanic arts [practical skills involving manual work] when their minds are matured [i.e., when they are grown up]?
"(3) People do inculcate [teach by frequent repetition] their own sentiments [attitudes, opinions] in religion. An infidel [unbeliever] is not usually 'very' anxious to conceal [hide] his views from his children. People teach by example; by incidental remarks [or 'comments made in passing']; by the 'neglect' of that which they regard as of no value. A man who does not pray, is teaching his children not to pray; he who neglects the public worship of God, is teaching his children to neglect it; he who does not read the Bible, is teaching his children not to read it. Such is the constitution [composition] of things, that it is impossible for a parent not to inculcate [instill] his own religious views on his children. Since this is so, all that the Bible requires is, that his instructions should be right.
"(4) To inculcate the truths of religion is not to make the mind narrow, prejudiced, and indisposed [unwilling] to perceive [recognize] the truth. Religion makes the mind candid [truthful and straightforward], conscientious [wishing to do what's right], open to conviction [or 'open-minded'], ready to follow the truth. Superstition, bigotry [prejudice], infidelity [or, in this case, 'unbelief'], and 'all' error and falsehood, make the mind narrow and prejudiced.
"(5) If a man does not teach his children truth, others will teach them 'error.' The young sceptic [doubter] that the child meets in the street; the artful infidel [or 'clever unbeliever']; the hater of God; the unprincipled [immoral, unethical] stranger; 'will' teach the child. But is it not better for a parent to teach his child the 'truth' than for a stranger to teach him error?
"(6) Religion is the most important of all subjects, and 'therefore' it is of most importance that children on that subject should he taught truth. Of whom can God so properly require this as of a parent? If it be asked 'in what way' a parent is to bring up his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord [referring to raising children with both loving care and instruction in God's ways], I answer:
"I. By directly inculcating the doctrines [beliefs] and duties of religion - just as he [the parent] does anything else that he regards as of value.
"II. By placing them [the children] in the Sunday school, where he [the parent] may have a guarantee that they will be taught the truth.
"III. By 'conducting' them [the children] - not merely 'sending' them - to the sanctuary [of the church], that they may be taught in the house of God.
"IV. By example - all teaching being valueless [worthless] without that.
"V. By prayer for the divine aid [or 'help from God'] in his [the parent's] efforts, and for the salvation of their [the children's] souls. These duties are plain, simple, easy to be performed, and are such as a man 'knows' he ought to perform. If neglected, and the soul of the child be lost, a parent has a most fearful account [or 'answer for his actions'] to render [give] to God."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/ephesians-6.html, "Verse 4")
OCTOBER 11
Matthew 5:14, 15, 16
Christians: Let Your Spiritual Lights Shine
During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said to his disciples:
Matthew 5:14-15: "Ye [you born-again Christians] are the [spiritual] light of the world. [That's because by spreading the gospel, we enlighten people's minds (i.e., provide spiritual knowledge or insight), just as the sun illuminates (brightens) the earth by shining on it.] A city that is set [situated] on an hill [or mountain] cannot be hid [hidden]. Neither do men [or women or children] light a candle [or turn on a lamp], and put it under a bushel [a large container (about two gallons), like those used for measuring dry goods, such as grains and peas], but on a candlestick; and it [the candle or lamp] giveth [gives] light unto all [people and things] that are in the house."
Matthew 5:16: "Let your [spiritual] light [meaning your Christian conduct] so shine before men [people], that they may see your good works [good deeds], and glorify [honor, praise, worship, and obey] your Father which is in heaven [i.e., God]."
"… We learn here:
"1.That religion, if it exists, cannot be concealed [hidden].
"2.That where it [religion] is not manifest [clear, obvious] in the [person's] life, it does not exist.
"3.That 'professors' of religion, who live like other people, give evidence that they have never been truly converted [or 'born again,' or 'saved'].
"4.That to attempt to conceal or hide our Christian knowledge or experience is to betray our trust [i.e., do something bad or hurtful to someone that causes a loss of respect], injure the cause of piety [religion], and to render our lives useless. And,
"5.That good actions will be seen, and will lead people to honor God. If we have no other way of doing good - if we are poor, and unlearned [uneducated], and unknown yet we may do good by our lives. No sincere and humble Christian lives in vain [uselessness, ineffectiveness]. The feeblest [weakest, faintest] light at midnight is of use.
"'How far the little candle throws his beams [of light]!
"So shines a good deed in a naughty world [i.e., one made up of badly behaving people]!'"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 16")
-- "What does it mean that a city on a hill cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/city-on-a-hill.html)
-- "What does it look like to 'let your light shine before others' (Matthew 5:16)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/let-your-light-shine.html)
OCTOBER 10
1 John 5:7: "For there are three [persons] that bear record [bear witness, testify] in heaven [to the fact that Jesus Christ is the Son of God], [and they include] the Father [i.e., God the Father], the Word [i.e., Jesus Christ], and the Holy Ghost [i.e., the Holy Spirit]: and these three are one [God, which means that the Godhead (or Trinity) consists of three separate and equal persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) with distinct (different) personalities--see note below*]."
-- "What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.html
-- "What does it mean that the Trinity is God in three Persons?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/God-in-three-persons.html
-- "How can there be subordination / hierarchy in the Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/subordination-Trinity.html
-- "What is the origin of the doctrine of the Trinity?
(https://www.gotquestions.org/origin-doctrine-Trinity.html)
-- "What are some popular illustrations of the Holy Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Holy-Trinity.html)
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And GotQuestions.org also has an article that addresses the following question: "Will we be able to see all three members of the Trinity in heaven?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/see-Trinity-heaven.html.
OCTOBER 9
Romans 6:6
In a letter to the saints (born-again Christians) in Rome, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 6:6: "Knowing this, that [when we get saved,] our old man [i.e., our sinful and corrupt nature, likened to a 'body of sin'] is crucified [put to death, as if on the cross] with him [Jesus], [so] that the body of sin might be destroyed [or 'become inoperative and powerless'], [and so] that henceforth [or 'from now on, after salvation'] we should not serve [or 'be a slave to' or 'be controlled by'] sin [personified (likened to a person)--as a master]."
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Note: If you want to be saved God's way and don't know what to do, visit the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website. Here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
OCTOBER 7-8
1 Samuel 2:7
A Story About Infertility, Answered Prayer, and Keeping Promises to God
In the Old Testament, a man named Elkanah had two wives: Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah had children; Hannah did not. For a long time, Peninnah mocked (made fun of) Hannah because she was barren (unable to become pregnant). However, Hannah kept praying for a child, and when God finally answered her prayer and gave her a son (whom she named Samuel), she said this:
1 Samuel 2:7: "The LORD [God] maketh [makes] [some people] poor, and [he also] maketh [makes] [some people] rich: he bringeth low [brings down, or humbles] [those who are full of pride] [i.e., he allows them to be humiliated (feel ashamed or stupid)], and [he] lifteth [lifts] up [or gives grace and honor to] [people who are humble (meaning they are not arrogant, not conceited, and not full of pride)]."
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Another article that relates to today's verse is entitled "What is the significance of Hannah's prayer?" To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Hannahs-prayer.html
OCTOBER 5-6
Matthew 6:25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33
Try not to worry about things that you can't control. If you are truly born again, God will supply your basic needs.
During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told his disciples (and--via the Bible--all Christians):
Matthew 6:25: "Therefore I [Jesus] say unto you [disciples and Christians] [regarding anxiety], Take no thought for your life [or 'don't worry about how you'll obtain the necessities of life, including'], what ye [you] shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on [or 'wear']. Is not the life more [valuable] than meat [or 'food'], and [is not] the body [more valuable] than raiment [clothing]?"
Matthew 6:26: "Behold [look at, observe, consider] the fowls of the air [i.e., the birds]: for they sow not [which means they don't plant or scatter seeds], neither do they reap [harvest crops], nor [do they] gather [the crops] into barns; yet your heavenly Father [God] feedeth [feeds] them [or 'makes sure they are fed']. Are ye not much better [more important] than they [are]?"
Matthew 6:27: "Which of you by taking thought [or 'by worrying'] can add one cubit [the length of a forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, which is about 18 inches] unto his [or her] stature [height--see note below*]?"
Matthew 6:28-29: "And why take ye thought for [or 'why do you worry about'] raiment [clothing]? Consider the lilies of the field [i.e., the wildflowers], how they grow; they toil not [they don't work], neither do they spin [make yarn or thread by twisting fibers of wool, cotton, etc.]: And yet I [Jesus] say unto you [disciples and Christians], That even [King] Solomon in all his glory [splendor (i.e., while wearing his finest royal robes)] was not arrayed [clothed, dressed] like one of these [beautiful flowers]."
Matthew 6:30: "Wherefore, if God so clothe [or 'dress'] the grass of the field [i.e., cereal plants, like wheat], which to day is [alive and growing], and to morrow [(after the grain has been harvested)] is [dead and dry and] cast [thrown, placed, inserted] into the oven [and used as fuel for baking, as was done in Bible times], shall he [God] not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?"
Matthew 6:31-32: "Therefore take no thought [don't worry] [about the things that you need], saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal [with what] shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles [non-Jewish people] seek:) for your heavenly Father [God] knoweth [knows] that ye have need of all these things."
Matthew 6:33: "But seek ye first [or 'first seek'] the kingdom of God [heaven], and his [God's] righteousness [in other words, make sure that you are saved, or 'born again']; and all these things [i.e., your basic necessities, such as food and clothing] shall be added unto [or 'given to'] you."
-- "Why are we told, 'Do not worry about your life' in Matthew 6:25?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/do-not-worry-about-your-life.html)
-- "Why should we consider the lilies of the field (Matthew 6:28)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/consider-the-lillies.html)
-- "If Matthew 6:31 is true, why do millions of people have nothing to eat, drink, or wear?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/what-shall-we-eat-drink-wear.html)
-- "What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/seek-first-kingdom-God.html)
OCTOBER 4
Psalm 51:10
Seeking forgiveness from God after he committed adultery with Bathsheba and tried to cover up that sin by having her husband murdered in battle, King David prayed:
Psalm 51:10: "Create in me a clean heart [which meant 'make my heart clean again; forgive my sins'], O God; and renew [restore, bring back] a right spirit [i.e., an obedient attitude] within me."
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This story also appears, along with explanations from well-known Bible commentators, in the June 2025 "Previous Verses" section of my website. To read it, go to https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PreviousVerses0625.html and scroll down to "JUNE 7-14."
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In addition, there is a summary of this story in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "Why did David ask God to 'create in me a clean heart' in Psalm 51:10?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/create-in-me-a-clean-heart.html.
OCTOBER 3
Psalm 140:12
This was written by David when he was suffering persecution (cruel or unfair treatment) during the reign of King Saul:
Psalm 140:12: "I know that the LORD [God] will maintain the cause of the afflicted [meaning he will help his people who are suffering, physically and/or mentally], and [that he will defend] the right [the rights, justice, judgment] of the poor [people, or those who are poor]."
OCTOBER 1-2
Romans 8:1
Referring mostly to what he said in the preceding (previous) chapter of Romans, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 8:1: "There is therefore now no condemnation [by God, referring to punishment in hell for sin] to them which are in Christ Jesus [meaning those who are saved, or born again], who walk [or 'live their lives'] not after the flesh [by doing worldly things], but after the Spirit [of God] [i.e., as the Holy Spirit leads or prompts] [see examples of 'works of the flesh' and 'fruit of the spirit' in the note below*]."
WORKS OF THE FLESH
Galatians 5:19-20,21: "Now the works of the flesh are manifest [obvious, evident], which are these;
"Adultery [sex between a married person and someone other than his or her spouse],
"fornication [sex between two unmarried people],
"uncleanness [immorality, sinfulness],
"lasciviousness [lustfulness],
"Idolatry [worshiping idols],
"witchcraft,
"hatred,
"variance [disagreements, controversy],
"emulations [rivalry],
"wrath [extreme anger],
"strife [conflict],
"seditions [uprisings],
"heresies [beliefs or opinions contrary to established religious doctrines],
"Envyings,
"murders,
"drunkenness,
"revellings [celebrations with out-of-control behavior],
"and such like:
"of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God [which means they will not go to heaven when they die]."
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is
"love,
"joy,
"peace,
"longsuffering [or 'patiently enduring hardship'],
"gentleness,
"goodness,
"faith,
"Meekness [humility, submissiveness],
"temperance [moderation in eating and drinking]:
"against such [things] there is no law."
AN INDICATION OF SALVATION
Galatians 5:24: "And they that are [Jesus] Christ's [i.e., born-again Christians] have crucified the flesh [or 'turned their backs on sin'] with the [or 'its'] affections [loves] and lusts [desires]."
-- "What does it mean that there is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/no-condemnation.html)
-- "What are the works of the flesh?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/works-of-the-flesh.html)
-- "What is the fruit of the Holy Spirit?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/fruit-of-the-Holy-Spirit.html)
Proverbs 29:7
Proverbs 29:7: "The righteous [people] considereth [consider, pay attention to] the cause [condition] of the poor [people]: but the wicked [people] regardeth [regard] not [or 'do not desire' or 'do not want'] to know it."
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Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on Proverbs 29:7. In it, he said that the word cause can have two meanings--a legal one and a moral one.____________________
Regarding injustice in the legal system, Pastor Delany said:
"This has always been a problem -- from [King] Solomon's [day; i.e., the time in which he was living] to our day: wealthy [people] get let off the hook for crimes they did commit and the poor go to prison for crimes they didn't commit. … That is injustice in the legal setting."
According to Pastor Delany, "The righteous man is concerned about the legal rights of the poor - that they not be oppressed by the strong and wealthy [people] in society."
____________________
"6. 'Considering' the moral cause of the poor:
"a. Considering the 'cause' of the poor from a moral sense rather than [a] legal [sense] brings up the issue of the poverty itself.
"b. A righteous man will be aware of the issue of poverty.
"c. A righteous man will be concerned about the plight [i.e., the difficult, unfortunate, or dangerous situation] of the poor.
"d. A righteous man is sympathetic towards their needs.
"e. A righteous man will not only be aware of their cause, but will seek to DO something about it.
"f. I John 3:17 -- "But whoso [whoever] hath [has] this world's good, and seeth [sees] his brother [or friend, other relative, neighbor, etc.] have need, and shutteth [shuts] up his bowels of compassion [such as empathy and kindness] from him, how dwelleth the love of God [or 'how does the love of God dwell'] in him?"
"g. Righteous men have hearts for the poor and needy [people].
"• Sympathy towards the poor is an acknowledgement of the grace of God in our lives.
"• It acknowledges: 'there but for the grace of God go I.'
"h. We know that the poor will always be here; but when God brings a situation to our doorstep--especially a brother [or sister] in Christ [or 'another Christian]--the love of God demands that we respond.
"i. There is a special BLESSING upon those who consider the cause of the poor and [who] help:
"• Ps. 41:1 -- 'Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.' (Read vs. 2-4 [i.e., Psalm 41:2,3,4]-- God will take care of those who consider the poor.)"
____________________
"7b But the wicked regardeth not to know it.
"1. What a contrast between the righteous and the wicked.
"a. The righteous man regards the cause of the poor… the rights of the poor legally as well as caring about their plight… poverty.
"b. The wicked man chooses not to regard it. He ignores it.
"c. He [the wicked man] chooses to look the other way -- like the priest and the Levite who saw the man beaten on the side of the road, and crossed to the other side so they wouldn't have to consider his cause… while the good Samaritan stopped to help. [Read the story of the Good Samaritan here: https://www.gotquestions.org/parable-Good-Samaritan.html.]
"2. God warns the wicked of his wicked ways in Psalm 1:6 -- 'For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.'
"3. Just as there is a blessing for considering the poor, there is also a curse for ignoring their plight.
"a. Prov. 21:13 -- 'Whoso stoppeth [stops up, shuts] his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.'
"• Stopping one's ears implies he has full knowledge, but refuses to listen… or see their plight.
"• The wicked will stop his ears to their cries.
"4. Prov. 14:31 -- 'He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker [i.e., God]: but he that honoureth him [God] hath [has] mercy on the poor.'
"a. God takes that [thing--oppressing and honoring the poor] seriously.
"b. When the rich and powerful [people] trample over the poor and the weak [ones], God notices.
"• What is His [God's] estimate? It is like reproaching Him personally…
"• He [God] is the Maker [Creator] of both the rich and the poor.
"• Note the reverse in this proverb: He who honors God will show mercy to the poor. Showing mercy to the poor is a way to honor God.
"• Compassion for others flows out of a heart that is in a right relationship to the Lord.
"5. Consider the contrast between Shallum (also known as -- Jehoahaz) and his father Josiah, king of Judah with respect to the treatment of the poor.
"a. Jer. 22:15-17 -- 'Shalt thou [shall you] reign, because thou closest thyself in cedar [probably meaning 'heat of anger' and referring to his anger and jealousy]? did not thy [your] father [King Josiah] eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, and then it was well with him? 16He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know me [God]? saith [said] the LORD. 17But thine [your] eyes and thine heart are not but for thy [your] covetousness [greed], and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it.'
"b. Josiah was a godly king… he defended the rights of the poor [people] and provided for their needs.
"c. On the other hand, his son Shallum was an ungodly (wicked) king. He did not consider the cause of the poor; he oppressed them and took advantage of them.
"• He ended up in captivity in Egypt.
"• Vs. 18-19 [i.e., Jeremiah 22:18-19]-- Jeremiah predicted that no one would mourn his [King Shallum's] death. There would be no lavish [elaborate, extravagant] burial… but it would be like the burial of a donkey!
"6. God is watching. God is still aware of the fact that 'the righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.'"
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If you want to read more of the above commentary, go to www.salembible.org/Proverbs/ and scroll down to "29:7."
* * * * *
Here are two GotQuestions.org articles related to Proverbs 29:7:-- "What is the social gospel?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/social-gospel.html)
-- "Should a Christian go on welfare?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-welfare.html)
OCTOBER 26-28
Matthew 21:22
After cursing a fig tree that had leaves but no fruit, Jesus said to his twelve disciples (apostles):
Matthew 21:22: "And all things, whatsoever ye [you] shall ask [for] in prayer, believing [that your prayer will be heard by God and will be answered according to his will], ye shall receive."
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According to Albert Barnes, in his commentary on Matthew 21:22:"And all things … -- He [Jesus] adds an encouragement for them [the apostles] to pray, assuring them that they should have all things which they asked.
"This promise was evidently a special one, given to them [Jesus' apostles] in regard to working miracles. To them it was true, but it is manifest [clear, obvious] that we have no right to apply this promise to ourselves. It was desired especially for the apostles; nor have we a right to turn it [the promise] from its original meaning. There are other promises in, abundance [or 'there are many other promises'] on which we 'may' rely in prayer, with confident assurance that our prayers will be heard …"
Then Mr. Barnes gives Matthew 7:7-11 as one example of the Bible's promise that our prayers will be answered. (Click here to read that passage in full: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%207%3A7-11&version=KJV.)
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-21.html, "Verses 12-22")
* * * * *
Also regarding today's verse, another Bible commentator wrote:"Matthew 21:22 assumes what Jesus taught elsewhere about prayer, namely, that God will grant [or 'say yes' to] the petitions [requests] of His people when they are in harmony [agreement] with His will (Matthew 6:9-13; Matthew 7:7-11; cf. [compare] John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23-24; 1 John 5:14-15). His [Matthew's] point was that when we pray we should believe that God can do anything we request and that He will do what is consistent [or 'in agreement'] with His will and what He has promised to do …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/21-21.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has a helpful article about prayer. It's called "Are there any conditions to answered prayer?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/prayer-conditions.html.OCTOBER 25
Proverbs 25:4, 5
How to Have Righteous (Good, Moral) Governments
King Solomon wrote this in the book of Proverbs:
Proverbs 25:4 [The illustration]: "Take away [remove] the dross [impurities] from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel [such as a cup or dish] for [from, or made by] the finer [refiner, silversmith]."
Proverbs 25:5 [The application]: "Take away the wicked [counselors, advisors, etc.--specifically, those who are dishonest and perhaps involved in criminal activity] from before the king [or other ruler (such as a prime minister, president, etc.)], and his [or her] throne [government] shall be established in righteousness [justice]."
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Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church says Solomon's point is that:• "… a wise king will seek [attempt, try] to remove all corruption. It must not be tolerated. It will destroy his reign and his throne--and perhaps the country!"
• "… when corruption is removed, the king's throne is established: Firmly set in place; stable; firm; unmovable!"
____________________
Here are some excerpts from the section of the pastor's commentary entitled "And his throne shall be established in righteousness.":
"g. What a contrast to [or 'difference in'] the thinking of most politicians today.
"• We seem to have the idea that if a president wants to establish his administration, he needs to build up political power by trampling over the other party [such as, in the United States, the Republicans or Democrats], by bullying [them], and asserting himself [i.e., acting boldly or forcefully]
"• Solomon states that an administration is made strong through moral purity.
"• If evil men and their corrupt ways are removed, then the king's throne WILL be established.
"• It will have authenticated [proven] itself as valid. Thus the people will trust the king and want him to succeed. He will have the full support of his people if he has the TRUST of the people.
"• When the people see corruption, they begin to distrust their leader and he loses their support.
"• When a leader loses the support of his people, then his throne is not established. It is weakened!
"• People will not stand behind, sacrifice for, or risk their lives to protect a throne that they do not trust.
"• Nobody likes being lied to or cheated. But when the people trust their leaders, they will 'establish their [leaders'] throne.'"
____________________
"i. A throne that has been cleansed of corruption is like a fine vessel: beautiful, practical, valuable, and highly prized! It will be strong and stable too."
"k. This principle applies to other areas of life as well.
"• This is true of a business too. If the customer base thinks the company is cheating them or being dishonest, they will not support the company or buy their products.
"• This is true of a local church too. People are very forgiving with honest mistakes, but if they detect dishonesty in the leadership, it will not be tolerated. The church will not be established and strengthened, but weakened.
"• This is applicable to us as individuals too. If people discover that you are dishonest, or that you cheat, or lie, or gossip behind their backs, or if your word cannot be trusted, your relationships will not be strong, firm, and established. They will be weak, fall apart, and you will lose friends daily.
"• Righteousness (honesty; purity; decency) establishes the throne--but it also has a strengthening effect in our personal lives and in our relationships with each other."
____________________
If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "25:4-5."
OCTOBER 24
Acts 8:12: "But when they [the people in a city of Samaria] believed Philip [a deacon/evangelist (not the apostle)] [who was] preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God [which means that Philip had been preaching about heaven], and the name of Jesus Christ [i.e., how to be saved, which is through faith, not works--by believing that Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and by receiving (trusting) him as our personal Savior, not by doing good works (good deeds, good things], they were baptized [by immersion, which means their bodies were submerged in water--see note below*], both men and women."
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In Acts 8:12, the people believed the gospel first and then were baptized. That's why only adults are mentioned, not babies or young children.* * * * *
*Baptism by immersion (i.e., going down into the water and coming up again) is a picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. You can learn more about it by reading the following articles:-- "What is the proper mode of baptism?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/baptism-mode.html)
-- "What is the symbolism of water baptism?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/water-baptism.html)
-- "What is the Catholic understanding of baptism?
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-baptism.html)
OCTOBER 23
Jeremiah 32:26, 27
Jeremiah 32:26-27: "Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah [an Old Testament prophet] [which means that God spoke to Jeremiah] [while he was praying], saying, Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh [meaning he is the creator of all living things;,especially, in this case, referring to mankind, the human race, or 'all people']: is there any thing too hard for me [to do]? [The answer is: No!]"
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In Jeremiah 32:27, according to a Bible commentary by Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown:"Jehovah [God] retorts [responds to] Jeremiah's own words [by saying]: I am, indeed, as thou sayest [or 'as you say'] …, the God and Creator of 'all flesh,' and 'nothing is too hard for Me:' thine [your] own words ought to have taught thee [you] that, though Judea and Jerusalem are given up [or 'surrendered'] to the Chaldeans now, for [or 'due to'] the sins of the Jews [i.e., worshiping idols, disobeying the commandments of God, etc.], yet it will not be hard to Me, when I please, to restore the state [of Israel], so that houses and lands therein shall be possessed in safety …."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/jfb/jeremiah-32.html, "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible," "Verse 27")
* * * * *
The GotQuestions.org article that relates to these verses is entitled "What does God mean when He says, 'I am the God of all flesh' (Jeremiah 32:26)?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/God-of-all-flesh.html.OCTOBER 21-22
Matthew 6:7
During his Sermon on the Mount (or 'mountain'), Jesus said:
Matthew 6:7: "But when ye [you] pray, use not [or 'do not use'] vain [useless] repetitions [in other words, don't keep repeating the same, memorized words over and over again, especially if you don't mean what you say], as [like] the heathen [people, which, in Bible times, referred to Gentiles, or non-Jews] do: for they think that they shall be heard [by God] for their much speaking [or 'long prayers']."
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"Pray from the heart" is good advice for everyone, not just Jewish people. Most prayers should be short and simple, and all of them should be sincere.* * * * *
Regarding the above verse, one Bible commentator (Rhoderick Ice) said:"Do not use a lot of meaningless words. It is not a torrent [or 'an emotional outpouring'] of prayer, nor long prayer which is forbidden (Jesus did both), but the making of the number of prayers said, their length, and the amount of time spent in prayer [is]--a thing of merit [i.e., something that deserves praise] … Some religious people still believe there is special merit in repeating certain prayers a set number of times."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/ice/matthew-6.html, "The Bible Study New Testament," "Verse 7")
* * * * *
The GotQuestions.org article about Matthew 6:7 is entitled "What does it mean to use vain repetitions in prayer?" To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/vain-repetitions.html.OCTOBER 19-20
James 1:13, 14, 15
Don't Blame God When You Are Tempted to Sin
James 1:13: "Let no man [person] say when he [or she] is tempted [to sin], I am tempted of [or 'by'] God: for God cannot be tempted with [or 'to do'] evil [things], neither tempteth he [or 'neither does he tempt'] any man [or woman or child] [to do wrong]:"
James 1:14: "But every man [person] is tempted, when he [or she] is drawn away of [or 'lured by'] his [or her] own lust [intense desire for something], and [is] enticed [seduced, persuaded to do evil, led astray by promises of pleasure or profit]."
James 1:15: "Then when lust hath [has] conceived [taken over, meaning that when a desire or inclination is indulged (allowed) in an improper manner, as with adultery and fornication (sex outside of marriage), gluttony (eating too much), greed (desiring to be rich), covetousness (wanting what someone else has), etc.], it bringeth forth [brings forth, results in] sin: and sin, when it is finished [or 'committed,' especially when repeated and continued], bringeth forth death [or destruction; in other words, it will kill you or ruin your life]."
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According to John Gill, a Bible commentator, in reference to James 1:13:"neither tempteth he any man; … he [God] tempted Abraham [in a good way, meaning God tested Abraham], to try his faith, love, and obedience to him; he tempted the Israelites in the wilderness, to try them and humble them, and prove what was in their hearts; and he tempted Job, and tried his faith and patience; and so he tempts [in a good way] and tries all [of] his righteous ones [referring to saved people, or born-again Christians], by afflictions [such as pain, distress, or suffering], more or less: but he never tempts [in a bad way] or solicits [asks, pressures] them to sin …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/james/1-13.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")
* * * * *
Regarding James 1:14, Matthew Henry wrote:"Every man is tempted (in an ill sense [or 'in a bad way']) when he is drawn [pulled] away [because] of his own lust, and enticed [attracted by something desirable]. In other scriptures the devil is called the tempter, and other things may sometimes concur [agree] to tempt us; but neither the devil nor any other person or thing is to be blamed so as to excuse ourselves; for the true original [origin?] of evil and temptation is in our own hearts. The combustible [flammable] matter is in us, though the flame may be blown up by some outward causes."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/james/1.html, "Verses 13-18", "(v. 14)")
* * * * *
Commenting on James 1:15, Albert Barnes wrote:"Then when lust hath conceived - … As our desires of good lie in the mind by nature, as our propensities [inclinations, natural tendencies] exist as they were created, they cannot be regarded as sin, or [be] treated as such; but when they are indulged, when plans of gratification [or 'achieving satisfaction'] are formed, when they are developed in actual life, the effect is sin. In the mere [simple] desire of good, of happiness, of food, of raiment [clothing], there is no sin; it becomes sin when indulged in an improper manner, and when it leads us to seek that which is forbidden - to invade the rights of others, or in any way to violate [break] the laws of God."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-1.html, "Verse 15")
OCTOBER 18
1 Corinthians 10:14
In a letter to the Christian church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:
1 Corinthians 10:14: "Wherefore [therefore; i.e., to avoid temptation and sin], my dearly beloved [Christians], flee [run away] from idolatry [which is the worship of, or excessive devotion to, people (such as the virgin Mary, saints, and the pope) and/or things (statues, images, false gods, etc.) instead of the one true God]."
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God hates idoatry, so to avoid offending him, all Christians should heed Paul's warning in the above verse. Basically, what he said was this: Don't join in or encourage the worship of idols, don't participate in sacrifices or feasts celebrated in their honor, and avoid going to places where they are worshiped.* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has some good articles about idolatry. Here are their titles and links:-- "What is the definition of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-definition.html)
-- "Is religious iconography considered idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/religious-iconography.html)
-- "What are some modern forms of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html)
-- "Why is idol worship such a powerful temptation?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idol-worship.html)
-- "Is worship of saints / Mary biblical?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/worship-saints-Mary.html)
-- "Do Catholics worship idols / practice idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-idolatry.html)
OCTOBER 17
Hebrews 11:6: "But without faith [i.e., without 'confidence' in God--in his fidelity (faithfulness, loyalty), truth, wisdom, promises, etc.,] it is impossible to please him [God]: for he [or she] that cometh [comes] to God [in worship and prayer] must believe that he [God] is [real] [i.e., that he exists], and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently [earnestly, sincerely] seek him [see note below*]."
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*Examples of rewards that people receive for diligently seeking God include salvation and answers to prayer.* * * * *
Here are two articles related to today's verse:-- "What does it mean that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/without-faith-impossible-please-God.html)
-- "What is the definition of faith?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/definition-of-faith.html)
OCTOBER 16
2 Timothy 3:12
In a letter to Timothy, a minister of the gospel, the apostle Paul warned:
2 Timothy 3:12: "Yea [yes], and all [people] that will live godly in Christ Jesus [referring to born-again Christians who obey the Bible and try to please God] shall suffer persecution [or 'can expect to be treated unfairly or unkindly by others due to their religious beliefs']."
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GotQuestions.org has a good article that answers the question "Is suffering for Christ always going to be a part of being a follower of Christ?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/suffering-for-Christ.html.OCTOBER 15
John 13:35
To his disciples at the Last Supper (i.e., the last meal that they ate together before Jesus was arrested and crucified), Jesus said:
John 13:35: "By this shall all men [people] know that ye [you] are my disciples [followers], if ye have love [brotherly love, affection, goodwill] one to another [or 'for other Christians']."
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"What does it mean to have love for one another (John 13:35)?" is the GotQuestions.org article that relates to today's verse. To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/love-for-one-another.html.OCTOBER 12-14
Ephesians 6:4
In a letter to the church at Ephesus, the apostle Paul wrote:
Ephesians 6:4: "And, ye [you] fathers [and mothers], provoke not your children to wrath [which means don't make your children angry by saying mean things, having unreasonable rules, punishing from anger rather than love, etc.]: but bring them up in the nurture [training and education, instruction, discipline] and admonition [counsel, warning] of the Lord."
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This is good advice for all parents, not just Christians.* * * * *
Adam Clarke said that when disciplining children, parents should:"… Avoid all severity [harshness]; this will hurt your own souls [or 'selves'], and [will] do them [the children] no good; on the contrary [or 'on the other hand'], if punished with severity or cruelty, they will be only hardened and made desperate in their sins. Cruel parents generally have bad children. …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/6-4.html, "Clarke's Commentary")
* * * * *
Albert Barnes makes some very good points in his excellent commentary on Ephesians 6:4. Here are excerpts from the sections on wrath and admonition:"Provoke not your children to wrath - That is, by unreasonable commands; by needless severity; by the manifestation [expression] of anger. So govern [influence, guide, and restrain] them, and so punish them - if punishment is necessary - that they shall not lose their confidence in you, but shall love you. The apostle [Paul] here has hit on the very danger to which parents are most exposed in the government [i.e., making decisions and directing the upbringing] of their children. It is that of souring their temper [or causing them to become irritable, bad-tempered, or gloomy]; of making them feel that the parent is under the influence of anger, and that it is right for them [the children] to be so [or 'to be angry'] too. This is done:
"(1) When the commands of a parent are unreasonable and severe. The spirit of a child then becomes irritated, and he is 'discouraged;' …
"(2) When a parent is evidently 'excited' when he punishes a child. The child then feels:
"(a)That if his 'father' is angry, it is not wrong for him to be angry; and,
"(b)The very fact of anger in a parent kindles [arouses, stirs up] anger in his bosom [chest, heart] - just as it does when two men are contending [arguing, fighting].
"If he [the child] submits in the case, it is only because the parent is the 'strongest,' not because he is 'right,' and the child cherishes [holds onto] 'anger,' while he yields [submits, surrenders] to power. There is no principle of parental government more important than that a father should command [control] his own temper when he inflicts punishment. He should punish a child not because he is 'angry,' but because it is 'right;' not because it has become a matter of 'personal contest,' but because God requires that he should do it, and the welfare [well-being] of the child demands it. The moment when a child seem that a parent punishes him under the influence of anger, that moment the child will be likely to be angry too - and his anger will be as proper as that of the parent. And yet, how often is punishment inflicted in this manner! And how often does the child feel that the parent punished him simply because he was the 'strongest,' not because it was 'right;' and how often is the mind of a child left with a strong conviction [belief] that wrong has been done him by the punishment which he has received, rather than with repentance [sincere regret or remorse] for the wrong that he has himself done."
"And admonition - … The sense here is, that they were to put them in mind of the Lord - of his existence, perfections, law, and claims on their hearts and lives. This command is positive, and is in accordance with all the requirements of the Bible on the subject. No one can doubt that the Bible enjoins [instructs, urges] on parents the duty of endeavoring [attempting] to train up their children in the ways of religion, and of making it the grand purpose of this life to prepare them for heaven. It has been often objected that children should be left on religious subjects to form their own opinions when they are able to judge for themselves. Infidels [unbelievers] and irreligious [non-religious] people always oppose or neglect the duty here enjoined [referring to a mandatory (required) obligation to do something]; and the plea [response] commonly is, that to teach religion to children is to make them prejudiced; to destroy their independence of mind; and to prevent their judging as impartially on so important a subject as they ought to. In reply to this, and in defense of the requirements of the Bible on the subject, we may remark:
"(1) That to suffer [allow] a child to grow up without any instruction in religion, is about the same as to suffer a garden to lie without any culture [or 'maintenance']. Such a garden would soon be overrun with weeds, and briars [prickly plants or shrubs], and thorns - but not sooner, or more certainly, than the mind of a child would.
"(2) People do instruct their children in a great many things, and why should they not [also do so] in religion? They teach them how to behave in [or 'around'] company; the art of farming; the way to make or use tools; how to make money; how to avoid the arts of the cunning seducer [or 'how to protect themselves from manipulation (influence or control), deceit (deception), and charm used by someone with an ulterior motive (a secret reason for doing something)']. But why should it not be said that all [of] this tends to destroy their independence, and to make them prejudiced? Why not leave their minds open and free, and suffer [permit] them to form their own judgments about farming and the mechanic arts [practical skills involving manual work] when their minds are matured [i.e., when they are grown up]?
"(3) People do inculcate [teach by frequent repetition] their own sentiments [attitudes, opinions] in religion. An infidel [unbeliever] is not usually 'very' anxious to conceal [hide] his views from his children. People teach by example; by incidental remarks [or 'comments made in passing']; by the 'neglect' of that which they regard as of no value. A man who does not pray, is teaching his children not to pray; he who neglects the public worship of God, is teaching his children to neglect it; he who does not read the Bible, is teaching his children not to read it. Such is the constitution [composition] of things, that it is impossible for a parent not to inculcate [instill] his own religious views on his children. Since this is so, all that the Bible requires is, that his instructions should be right.
"(4) To inculcate the truths of religion is not to make the mind narrow, prejudiced, and indisposed [unwilling] to perceive [recognize] the truth. Religion makes the mind candid [truthful and straightforward], conscientious [wishing to do what's right], open to conviction [or 'open-minded'], ready to follow the truth. Superstition, bigotry [prejudice], infidelity [or, in this case, 'unbelief'], and 'all' error and falsehood, make the mind narrow and prejudiced.
"(5) If a man does not teach his children truth, others will teach them 'error.' The young sceptic [doubter] that the child meets in the street; the artful infidel [or 'clever unbeliever']; the hater of God; the unprincipled [immoral, unethical] stranger; 'will' teach the child. But is it not better for a parent to teach his child the 'truth' than for a stranger to teach him error?
"(6) Religion is the most important of all subjects, and 'therefore' it is of most importance that children on that subject should he taught truth. Of whom can God so properly require this as of a parent? If it be asked 'in what way' a parent is to bring up his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord [referring to raising children with both loving care and instruction in God's ways], I answer:
"I. By directly inculcating the doctrines [beliefs] and duties of religion - just as he [the parent] does anything else that he regards as of value.
"II. By placing them [the children] in the Sunday school, where he [the parent] may have a guarantee that they will be taught the truth.
"III. By 'conducting' them [the children] - not merely 'sending' them - to the sanctuary [of the church], that they may be taught in the house of God.
"IV. By example - all teaching being valueless [worthless] without that.
"V. By prayer for the divine aid [or 'help from God'] in his [the parent's] efforts, and for the salvation of their [the children's] souls. These duties are plain, simple, easy to be performed, and are such as a man 'knows' he ought to perform. If neglected, and the soul of the child be lost, a parent has a most fearful account [or 'answer for his actions'] to render [give] to God."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/ephesians-6.html, "Verse 4")
* * * * *
The GotQuestions.org article that relates to Ephesians 6:4 is entitled "What does the Bible say about Christian fathers?" Click here if you want to read it: https://www.gotquestions.org/fathers-Christian.html.OCTOBER 11
Matthew 5:14, 15, 16
Christians: Let Your Spiritual Lights Shine
During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said to his disciples:
Matthew 5:14-15: "Ye [you born-again Christians] are the [spiritual] light of the world. [That's because by spreading the gospel, we enlighten people's minds (i.e., provide spiritual knowledge or insight), just as the sun illuminates (brightens) the earth by shining on it.] A city that is set [situated] on an hill [or mountain] cannot be hid [hidden]. Neither do men [or women or children] light a candle [or turn on a lamp], and put it under a bushel [a large container (about two gallons), like those used for measuring dry goods, such as grains and peas], but on a candlestick; and it [the candle or lamp] giveth [gives] light unto all [people and things] that are in the house."
Matthew 5:16: "Let your [spiritual] light [meaning your Christian conduct] so shine before men [people], that they may see your good works [good deeds], and glorify [honor, praise, worship, and obey] your Father which is in heaven [i.e., God]."
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In his commentary on Matthew 5:16, Albert Barnes wrote, in part:"… We learn here:
"1.That religion, if it exists, cannot be concealed [hidden].
"2.That where it [religion] is not manifest [clear, obvious] in the [person's] life, it does not exist.
"3.That 'professors' of religion, who live like other people, give evidence that they have never been truly converted [or 'born again,' or 'saved'].
"4.That to attempt to conceal or hide our Christian knowledge or experience is to betray our trust [i.e., do something bad or hurtful to someone that causes a loss of respect], injure the cause of piety [religion], and to render our lives useless. And,
"5.That good actions will be seen, and will lead people to honor God. If we have no other way of doing good - if we are poor, and unlearned [uneducated], and unknown yet we may do good by our lives. No sincere and humble Christian lives in vain [uselessness, ineffectiveness]. The feeblest [weakest, faintest] light at midnight is of use.
"'How far the little candle throws his beams [of light]!
"So shines a good deed in a naughty world [i.e., one made up of badly behaving people]!'"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 16")
* * * * *
Here are two GotQuestions.org articles that relate to today's verses:-- "What does it mean that a city on a hill cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/city-on-a-hill.html)
-- "What does it look like to 'let your light shine before others' (Matthew 5:16)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/let-your-light-shine.html)
OCTOBER 10
1 John 5:7: "For there are three [persons] that bear record [bear witness, testify] in heaven [to the fact that Jesus Christ is the Son of God], [and they include] the Father [i.e., God the Father], the Word [i.e., Jesus Christ], and the Holy Ghost [i.e., the Holy Spirit]: and these three are one [God, which means that the Godhead (or Trinity) consists of three separate and equal persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) with distinct (different) personalities--see note below*]."
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*For many people, how one God could be made up of three persons is a difficult concept (idea, thing) to grasp (understand). The following articles were written in an attempt to explain the Trinity:-- "What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Trinity-Bible.html
-- "What does it mean that the Trinity is God in three Persons?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/God-in-three-persons.html
-- "How can there be subordination / hierarchy in the Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/subordination-Trinity.html
-- "What is the origin of the doctrine of the Trinity?
(https://www.gotquestions.org/origin-doctrine-Trinity.html)
-- "What are some popular illustrations of the Holy Trinity?"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Holy-Trinity.html)
____________________
And GotQuestions.org also has an article that addresses the following question: "Will we be able to see all three members of the Trinity in heaven?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/see-Trinity-heaven.html.
OCTOBER 9
Romans 6:6
In a letter to the saints (born-again Christians) in Rome, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 6:6: "Knowing this, that [when we get saved,] our old man [i.e., our sinful and corrupt nature, likened to a 'body of sin'] is crucified [put to death, as if on the cross] with him [Jesus], [so] that the body of sin might be destroyed [or 'become inoperative and powerless'], [and so] that henceforth [or 'from now on, after salvation'] we should not serve [or 'be a slave to' or 'be controlled by'] sin [personified (likened to a person)--as a master]."
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According to Paul, everyone who is born again, or saved, can--and should be able to--have victory over sin.____________________
Note: If you want to be saved God's way and don't know what to do, visit the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website. Here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What does it mean to be a slave to sin?" If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/slave-to-sin.html.OCTOBER 7-8
1 Samuel 2:7
A Story About Infertility, Answered Prayer, and Keeping Promises to God
In the Old Testament, a man named Elkanah had two wives: Hannah and Peninnah. Peninnah had children; Hannah did not. For a long time, Peninnah mocked (made fun of) Hannah because she was barren (unable to become pregnant). However, Hannah kept praying for a child, and when God finally answered her prayer and gave her a son (whom she named Samuel), she said this:
1 Samuel 2:7: "The LORD [God] maketh [makes] [some people] poor, and [he also] maketh [makes] [some people] rich: he bringeth low [brings down, or humbles] [those who are full of pride] [i.e., he allows them to be humiliated (feel ashamed or stupid)], and [he] lifteth [lifts] up [or gives grace and honor to] [people who are humble (meaning they are not arrogant, not conceited, and not full of pride)]."
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For more detailed background information on the above verse, read the GotQuestions.org article entitled "What is the story of Hannah and Samuel?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Hannah-and-Samuel.html.____________________
Another article that relates to today's verse is entitled "What is the significance of Hannah's prayer?" To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Hannahs-prayer.html
OCTOBER 5-6
Matthew 6:25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33
Try not to worry about things that you can't control. If you are truly born again, God will supply your basic needs.
During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told his disciples (and--via the Bible--all Christians):
Matthew 6:25: "Therefore I [Jesus] say unto you [disciples and Christians] [regarding anxiety], Take no thought for your life [or 'don't worry about how you'll obtain the necessities of life, including'], what ye [you] shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on [or 'wear']. Is not the life more [valuable] than meat [or 'food'], and [is not] the body [more valuable] than raiment [clothing]?"
Matthew 6:26: "Behold [look at, observe, consider] the fowls of the air [i.e., the birds]: for they sow not [which means they don't plant or scatter seeds], neither do they reap [harvest crops], nor [do they] gather [the crops] into barns; yet your heavenly Father [God] feedeth [feeds] them [or 'makes sure they are fed']. Are ye not much better [more important] than they [are]?"
Matthew 6:27: "Which of you by taking thought [or 'by worrying'] can add one cubit [the length of a forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, which is about 18 inches] unto his [or her] stature [height--see note below*]?"
Matthew 6:28-29: "And why take ye thought for [or 'why do you worry about'] raiment [clothing]? Consider the lilies of the field [i.e., the wildflowers], how they grow; they toil not [they don't work], neither do they spin [make yarn or thread by twisting fibers of wool, cotton, etc.]: And yet I [Jesus] say unto you [disciples and Christians], That even [King] Solomon in all his glory [splendor (i.e., while wearing his finest royal robes)] was not arrayed [clothed, dressed] like one of these [beautiful flowers]."
Matthew 6:30: "Wherefore, if God so clothe [or 'dress'] the grass of the field [i.e., cereal plants, like wheat], which to day is [alive and growing], and to morrow [(after the grain has been harvested)] is [dead and dry and] cast [thrown, placed, inserted] into the oven [and used as fuel for baking, as was done in Bible times], shall he [God] not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?"
Matthew 6:31-32: "Therefore take no thought [don't worry] [about the things that you need], saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal [with what] shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles [non-Jewish people] seek:) for your heavenly Father [God] knoweth [knows] that ye have need of all these things."
Matthew 6:33: "But seek ye first [or 'first seek'] the kingdom of God [heaven], and his [God's] righteousness [in other words, make sure that you are saved, or 'born again']; and all these things [i.e., your basic necessities, such as food and clothing] shall be added unto [or 'given to'] you."
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This doesn't mean that we shouldn't work to buy the things that we need and to pay our bills. It simply means that we must not worry needlessly, because God promises to take care of us.* * * * *
*According to some commentaries, stature can also mean age in the Bible, so if that definition applies to this verse (Matthew 6:27), it means there is nothing that a person can do to increase the length of his or her life.* * * * *
Here are some GotQuestions.org articles that relate to today's verses:-- "Why are we told, 'Do not worry about your life' in Matthew 6:25?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/do-not-worry-about-your-life.html)
-- "Why should we consider the lilies of the field (Matthew 6:28)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/consider-the-lillies.html)
-- "If Matthew 6:31 is true, why do millions of people have nothing to eat, drink, or wear?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/what-shall-we-eat-drink-wear.html)
-- "What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/seek-first-kingdom-God.html)
OCTOBER 4
Psalm 51:10
Seeking forgiveness from God after he committed adultery with Bathsheba and tried to cover up that sin by having her husband murdered in battle, King David prayed:
Psalm 51:10: "Create in me a clean heart [which meant 'make my heart clean again; forgive my sins'], O God; and renew [restore, bring back] a right spirit [i.e., an obedient attitude] within me."
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Sin always breaks our fellowship with God, so whenever we sin, we should seek God's forgiveness, like David did in the above verse, and try to do better.* * * * *
You can read about David and Bathsheba in your Bible (2 Samuel, Chapters 11 and 12) or online (https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2011:1-12:24;&version=kjv).____________________
This story also appears, along with explanations from well-known Bible commentators, in the June 2025 "Previous Verses" section of my website. To read it, go to https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PreviousVerses0625.html and scroll down to "JUNE 7-14."
____________________
In addition, there is a summary of this story in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "Why did David ask God to 'create in me a clean heart' in Psalm 51:10?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/create-in-me-a-clean-heart.html.
OCTOBER 3
Psalm 140:12
This was written by David when he was suffering persecution (cruel or unfair treatment) during the reign of King Saul:
Psalm 140:12: "I know that the LORD [God] will maintain the cause of the afflicted [meaning he will help his people who are suffering, physically and/or mentally], and [that he will defend] the right [the rights, justice, judgment] of the poor [people, or those who are poor]."
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The above statement is true for all Christians, not only those who lived in Bible times.* * * * *
Although not specifically related to today's verse, there is a GotQuestions.org article about how Christians can help poor people. It's called "How should Christians respond to global poverty and hunger?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/global-poverty-hunger.html.OCTOBER 1-2
Romans 8:1
Referring mostly to what he said in the preceding (previous) chapter of Romans, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 8:1: "There is therefore now no condemnation [by God, referring to punishment in hell for sin] to them which are in Christ Jesus [meaning those who are saved, or born again], who walk [or 'live their lives'] not after the flesh [by doing worldly things], but after the Spirit [of God] [i.e., as the Holy Spirit leads or prompts] [see examples of 'works of the flesh' and 'fruit of the spirit' in the note below*]."
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*Paul lists the following as:WORKS OF THE FLESH
Galatians 5:19-20,21: "Now the works of the flesh are manifest [obvious, evident], which are these;
"Adultery [sex between a married person and someone other than his or her spouse],
"fornication [sex between two unmarried people],
"uncleanness [immorality, sinfulness],
"lasciviousness [lustfulness],
"Idolatry [worshiping idols],
"witchcraft,
"hatred,
"variance [disagreements, controversy],
"emulations [rivalry],
"wrath [extreme anger],
"strife [conflict],
"seditions [uprisings],
"heresies [beliefs or opinions contrary to established religious doctrines],
"Envyings,
"murders,
"drunkenness,
"revellings [celebrations with out-of-control behavior],
"and such like:
"of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God [which means they will not go to heaven when they die]."
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is
"love,
"joy,
"peace,
"longsuffering [or 'patiently enduring hardship'],
"gentleness,
"goodness,
"faith,
"Meekness [humility, submissiveness],
"temperance [moderation in eating and drinking]:
"against such [things] there is no law."
AN INDICATION OF SALVATION
Galatians 5:24: "And they that are [Jesus] Christ's [i.e., born-again Christians] have crucified the flesh [or 'turned their backs on sin'] with the [or 'its'] affections [loves] and lusts [desires]."
* * * * *
These GotQuestions.org articles relate to today's verse:-- "What does it mean that there is no condemnation in Christ (Romans 8:1)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/no-condemnation.html)
-- "What are the works of the flesh?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/works-of-the-flesh.html)
-- "What is the fruit of the Holy Spirit?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/fruit-of-the-Holy-Spirit.html)
