Month: February 2026

Daily Scripture Reading – Week 7

February 12, 2026 — Exodus 37:1–38:31; Matthew 27:11–44; Psalm 21:1–7

Exodus 37:1–38:31
The craftsmen carefully build the furnishings of the tabernacle exactly as the Lord commanded. Every detail reflects obedience and reverence, showing that worship is shaped by God’s design, not human creativity. God is worthy of careful, wholehearted devotion.

Matthew 27:11–44
Jesus stands silent before false accusations and brutal mockery. Though rejected and humiliated, He remains the true King, fulfilling God’s saving purposes through suffering. God’s plan of redemption moves forward even when it appears defeated.

Psalm 21:1–7
The psalm celebrates the king’s strength and joy in the Lord’s salvation. Victory and blessing flow from trusting God’s steadfast love. Confidence rests in the Lord’s faithful power.

Together
God is the true King who deserves reverent worship and unwavering trust. His purposes stand firm even through suffering and opposition. Joy and victory are found in relying on His steadfast love.

February 13, 2026 — Exodus 39:1–40:38; Matthew 27:45–66; Proverbs 4:20–27

Exodus 39:1–40:38
Israel completes the tabernacle just as the Lord instructed, and His glory fills it. God’s presence among His people is the ultimate sign of covenant faithfulness. He leads them visibly, guiding every step.

Matthew 27:45–66
Darkness covers the land as Jesus dies, and the temple curtain is torn in two. His death opens the way into God’s presence, even as His body is laid in a guarded tomb. God’s redemptive work is accomplished through sacrifice.

Proverbs 4:20–27
Wisdom calls for focused attention and guarded hearts. The path of life requires intentional direction and steady obedience. God’s ways lead to life and stability.

Together
God makes His presence known and opens the way for relationship through sacrifice. He calls His people to walk carefully in the life He provides. His glory guides those who stay on His path.

February 14, 2026 — Leviticus 1:1–3:17; Matthew 28:1–20; Psalm 21:8–13

Leviticus 1:1–3:17
God outlines offerings that express devotion, atonement, and fellowship. Worship involves surrender, gratitude, and restored relationship. God provides a way for His people to draw near.

Matthew 28:1–20
The risen Jesus defeats death and sends His followers with authority and promise. His resurrection confirms that He reigns as Lord over all. God’s saving plan now moves outward to the nations.

Psalm 21:8–13
The psalm praises God’s strength and ultimate victory over enemies. The Lord’s power secures the future of His anointed king. Praise rises because God reigns.

Together
God provides access to Himself and proves His power through resurrection. He reigns victorious and invites His people into His global purpose. Worship and mission flow from His triumph.

February 15, 2026 — Leviticus 4:1–5:13; Mark 1:1–28; Psalm 22:1–11

Leviticus 4:1–5:13
God addresses unintentional sin with clear instructions for atonement. Even hidden or unaware failures matter before Him. God makes provision so guilt can be removed and fellowship restored.

Mark 1:1–28
Jesus begins His ministry with authority over demons and power in teaching. His words carry divine weight, and people are amazed. God’s kingdom breaks in with unmistakable authority.

Psalm 22:1–11
The psalm expresses deep anguish yet clings to God’s past faithfulness. Trust is remembered even when feelings waver. God remains the faithful refuge from the beginning of life.

Together
God is holy and provides atonement for sin. His authority and saving power appear in Jesus, bringing hope into human need. Even in distress, His faithfulness anchors trust.

February 16, 2026 — Leviticus 5:14–7:10; Mark 1:29–2:17; Psalm 22:12–21

Leviticus 5:14–7:10
The guilt offering highlights restitution and responsibility alongside sacrifice. God cares about both worship and making things right with others. Forgiveness and restoration go hand in hand.

Mark 1:29–2:17
Jesus heals the sick, forgives sins, and calls unlikely people to follow Him. His authority reaches both body and soul. God’s grace welcomes the needy and the outcast.

Psalm 22:12–21
The psalm vividly portrays suffering and desperate need for rescue. Surrounded by enemies, the writer cries for deliverance. God is sought as the only hope.

Together
God provides restoration that reaches guilt, suffering, and broken lives. His mercy moves toward those in need and calls them into new life. Hope rises because He is willing and able to save.

February 17, 2026 — Leviticus 7:11–8:36; Mark 2:18–3:30; Proverbs 5:1–14

Leviticus 7:11–8:36
The fellowship offering and priestly ordination emphasize shared meals and set apart service. God establishes leaders who serve in His presence on behalf of the people. Worship involves both joy and consecration.

Mark 2:18–3:30
Jesus challenges rigid traditions and reveals Himself as Lord of the Sabbath. His authority brings restoration, yet opposition grows. God’s work exposes hardened hearts while offering healing.

Proverbs 5:1–14
Wisdom warns against the path of unfaithfulness and its bitter consequences. God’s instruction protects from regret and ruin. Listening to wisdom guards life.

Together
God calls His people to joyful worship, faithful service, and wise obedience. He brings healing but confronts hardened hearts. Life flourishes when His instruction is taken seriously.

February 18, 2026 — Leviticus 9:1–10:20; Mark 3:31–4:29; Psalm 22:22–31

Leviticus 9:1–10:20
God’s glory appears as sacrifices are offered, but disobedience brings swift judgment on Nadab and Abihu. His holiness is not to be treated lightly. Worship must honor Him on His terms.

Mark 3:31–4:29
Jesus teaches that true family consists of those who do God’s will. Through parables, He describes the kingdom growing quietly yet powerfully. God’s work advances in ways often unseen.

Psalm 22:22–31
The psalm turns from suffering to praise, declaring God’s deliverance to future generations. Hope expands from personal rescue to global worship. God’s faithfulness fuels lasting praise.

Together
God is holy, worthy of reverent worship, and faithful to bring deliverance. His kingdom grows beyond what we see, drawing people into lasting praise. Awe and hope belong together in His presence.

Lesson 18 – Mark Jensen

  1. Introduction: The Power of Prayer and Preparation
    1. Personal testimony of presenting to Microsoft’s Chief Operating Officer Kevin Turner
      1. Prepared for two weeks with numbers, project plans, risks, and objectives
      2. Prayed for God’s peace, favor, and wisdom
      3. God provided grace and the meeting went beyond expectations
    2. Nehemiah had a much larger concern and went to prayer first, a repeating theme throughout the book
    3. God blessed Nehemiah with approval from the king of Persia
  2. Overview of the Book of Nehemiah
    1. Nehemiah and Daniel are examples of practical Christianity in the world
      1. Both books show how to live and work as a Christian in a secular environment
      2. Excellent models for being Christian at home, church, and work
    2. Nehemiah’s name means “Jehovah Consoles” or “Comforts”
    3. Background and context
      1. Born in Persia
      2. Third great leader in the Jewish Restoration (second Exodus) after Zerubbabel and Ezra
      3. Worked at the highest levels of Persian government as cupbearer to the king
      4. Little known about his personal background
    4. Nehemiah’s mission compared to Ezra’s mission
      1. Ezra dealt with spiritual needs: spiritual rebuilding and growth of the people
      2. Nehemiah dealt with physical needs: rebuilding the walls, protection of the people, and development of the nation
      3. Both missions were very important and complementary
    5. Connection to the story of Esther
      1. Nehemiah probably does not rise to high government levels if Esther had not stood up
      2. God’s providential protection of the Jews through Esther enabled Nehemiah’s mission
      3. Again demonstrates the theme of God’s providence
  3. Key Themes in Nehemiah Chapters 1-2
    1. Balance between confidence in God’s sovereignty through prayer and human responsibility through thoughtful planning
    2. The beauty of Nehemiah’s prayer in chapter one (Nehemiah 1)
      1. Similar to prayers of Ezra (Ezra 9) and Daniel (Daniel 9)
      2. A beautiful prayer in the Bible demonstrating deep spiritual character
    3. Nehemiah’s reaction to discouraging news about Jerusalem
      1. Showed he was a man of deep spiritual character
      2. Identified with hardships he had not personally experienced
      3. Denied himself palace luxuries to fast, mourn, and pray
    4. Nehemiah knew he could not solve the situation by himself, but with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26)
  4. Theological Principles from Chapters 1-2
    1. Prayerfulness: Making prayer the first action
    2. True spirituality: Acknowledging that God answers prayers as he sees fit
    3. Confession of sin and intercession for others
    4. Drawing on God’s promises: God is always working for his glory and the good of his people, even when it doesn’t seem like it
      1. Includes personal suffering and hardship
      2. God uses the messiness in our lives for our ultimate good
    5. Presence of faith does not mean absence of organization
      1. Planning, project management, and leadership all have their place
      2. God honors prayer along with order and organization
  5. Exposition of Nehemiah Chapter 2:1-10 – Nehemiah’s Petition to the King
    1. The setting: Artaxerxes notices Nehemiah’s sadness (Nehemiah 2:1-2)
      1. In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes
      2. Nehemiah was very much afraid because cupbearers were expected to be cheerful
      3. Sadness in the king’s presence could be interpreted as disrespect or ill-will toward the king
      4. Could have resulted in execution
    2. Nehemiah’s response to the king’s question (Nehemiah 2:3)
      1. “Let the king live forever. Why should my face not be sad when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies desolate and its gates have been consumed by fire?”
      2. Wisely does not mention Jerusalem by name to avoid reminding the king of past rebellion
      3. Appeals to ancestral honor and family tombs, concepts the king would understand and respect
    3. The king’s favorable response (Nehemiah 2:4)
      1. “What would you request?”
      2. Before answering, Nehemiah prayed to the God of heaven
      3. Demonstrates the principle of arrow prayers – quick, urgent prayers in critical moments
    4. Nehemiah’s detailed, prepared request (Nehemiah 2:5-8)
      1. Asked to be sent to Judah to rebuild the city
      2. Requested letters of safe passage to governors in the region
      3. Asked for a letter to Asaph, keeper of the king’s forest, for timber
      4. Needed timber for gates of the fortress, city wall, and his own house
      5. The king granted all his requests because the good hand of God was on him
    5. Journey to Jerusalem with royal support (Nehemiah 2:9-10)
      1. King sent army officers and horsemen with Nehemiah
      2. Delivered letters to governors beyond the River
      3. Sanballat and Tobiah were displeased that someone came to seek the welfare of Israel
      4. First mention of opposition that will persist throughout the book
  6. Leadership Principles from Nehemiah’s Petition
    1. Prayer and planning work together
      1. Nehemiah prayed for months (Kislev to Nisan, approximately 4 months)
      2. He also planned carefully what he would request
      3. When opportunity came, he was ready with specific, detailed requests
    2. Wisdom in communication
      1. Carefully chose words to avoid negative associations
      2. Appealed to values the king would understand
      3. Was truthful but tactful
    3. Dependence on God’s providence
      1. Acknowledged “the good hand of my God was on me” (Nehemiah 2:8)
      2. Recognized success came from God, not his own cleverness
    4. Thorough preparation demonstrates stewardship
      1. Thought through all necessary resources
      2. Anticipated obstacles and needs
      3. Made specific, reasonable requests
  7. Exposition of Nehemiah Chapter 2:11-20 – Initial Assessment and Vision Casting
    1. Arrival and waiting period (Nehemiah 2:11)
      1. Came to Jerusalem and was there three days
      2. Took time to rest and observe before acting
    2. Nighttime inspection of the walls (Nehemiah 2:12-16)
      1. Arose at night with a few men, telling no one what God had put in his heart
      2. Went out by night to inspect the walls and gates
      3. The Valley Gate, Dragon’s Well, Refuse Gate were examined
      4. Some areas so damaged he could not pass with his animal
      5. Went up by the valley at night, inspecting the wall
      6. Officials did not yet know where he went or what he was doing
    3. Leaders gather information before casting vision
      1. Assessed the situation personally and thoroughly
      2. Did not rely on second-hand reports
      3. Kept plans private until the right time to share
    4. Nehemiah’s vision casting to the people (Nehemiah 2:17-18)
      1. “You see the bad situation we are in, that Jerusalem is desolate and its gates burned by fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem so that we will no longer be a reproach.”
      2. Identified with the people (“we are in”)
      3. Clearly stated the problem
      4. Proposed a solution
      5. Explained the benefit (no longer be a reproach)
      6. Shared his testimony of God’s goodness and the king’s support
    5. The people’s response (Nehemiah 2:18)
      1. “Let us arise and build”
      2. United response to join the work
      3. Motivated by truthful assessment and encouraging testimony
    6. Immediate opposition from enemies (Nehemiah 2:19-20)
      1. Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem mocked and despised them
      2. Accused them of rebelling against the king
      3. Nehemiah’s confident response: “The God of heaven will give us success. Therefore we his servants will arise and build. But you have no portion, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”
      4. Did not argue or become discouraged
      5. Courageously used his authority as servant of the king and of God
  8. Leadership Principles from Vision Casting and Opposition
    1. Effective leaders understand needs before proposing solutions
      1. Personal inspection and assessment
      2. Took time to fully understand the situation
    2. Vision casting motivates people to action
      1. Be truthful about the problem
      2. Identify with the people (“we”)
      3. Share testimony of God’s work
      4. Encourage through examples of God’s faithfulness
    3. Godly leaders trust in God’s strength, not their own
      1. “The God of heaven will give us success”
      2. Self-confidence rooted in God’s wisdom and strength
    4. Opposition is normal when walking by faith
      1. Criticism and opposition don’t necessarily mean you’re outside God’s will
      2. May actually reinforce that you are in the center of God’s plan
      3. Don’t be discouraged or argue with opponents
  9. Key Truths and Theological Lessons from Nehemiah 1-2
    1. God’s providence is trustworthy
      1. God knew the condition of the walls and was not surprised
      2. God has a plan and moves people according to that plan
      3. Sent Nehemiah because organizing projects and leading rebuilding were not Ezra’s skills
    2. Nehemiah as a type of Christ
      1. Just as Nehemiah was distressed over the condition of the Jews and Jerusalem, Jesus was distressed for us
      2. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45)
      3. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10)
      4. Nehemiah’s name “Jehovah Consoles or Comforts” is fitting – God consoles his people by sending Nehemiah to them
    3. The power and priority of prayer
      1. Prayer was Nehemiah’s first and best course of action
      2. Humanly speaking, only King Artaxerxes could make Nehemiah’s mission possible
      3. The king had issued a decree stopping construction, and only he could reverse it
      4. Nehemiah prayed specifically: “Give your servant success today by granting him favor (compassion) in the presence of this man”
    4. Nehemiah demonstrates balance between faith and action
      1. Presence of faith does not mean absence of organization
      2. God honors prayer along with order and organization
      3. Prayer and planning work together, not against each other
  10. Application and Reflection
    1. Trusting God’s providence in your life
      1. Can you trust God for direction and guidance in your life?
      2. If God can work for Nehemiah, can he work in your life?
      3. Can you trust God’s plan for you?
    2. Looking for God at work and joining him
      1. Are you like Nehemiah, attuned to what God is doing?
      2. Are you ready to join God in his work?
      3. Nehemiah was very aware of how God was working and responded accordingly
    3. Applying leadership principles
      1. Principles of leadership, prayer, and trust found in Nehemiah apply to personal life, family, jobs, and church service
      2. Where and how can you apply these principles to make an impact on people in your life?
      3. Nehemiah took time to understand people’s needs and motivated them through truth and encouragement
    4. Using your testimony to motivate others
      1. Nehemiah told his testimony of what God had done when he stood before King Artaxerxes
      2. How can your testimony of God’s work in you be used to motivate people to trust in God?
      3. You have a testimony just like Nehemiah had a testimony
    5. Prayer as the first and best response
      1. No matter what emotions you may be feeling, the first and best response is to pray
      2. Prayer is how Nehemiah dealt with his emotions
      3. He didn’t allow himself to be driven by emotion, but rather to be driven by God through prayer
    6. Responding with God’s grace and wisdom in trying times
      1. Our city, nation, and world are being driven by emotion
      2. How are you bringing your emotions to God and submitting them to him through prayer?
      3. Instead of responding with emotion, respond with the grace and wisdom of God
      4. Be like Nehemiah: bring emotions to God, submit them to him, and spend time in prayer to know how to respond and what direction to take
    7. Leadership starts with personal life
      1. Be men of prayer
      2. Be leaders over ourselves
      3. Walk in holiness
      4. Encourage one another: “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you also are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
      5. “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called today, so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13)
    8. Practical steps for daily living
      1. Take time each day to pray, worship God, and listen for his leading
      2. Learn the needs of people around us, not just Christians but all people
      3. Pray, plan, listen for God’s voice, and organize around his leading
      4. Be realistic: when you walk by faith and seek to lead, you will encounter hostility from people who walk by sight

Daily Scripture Reading – Week 6

February 5, 2026 — Exodus 23:1–24:18; Matthew 24:1–31; Proverbs 4:1–9

Exodus 23:1–24:18
God’s laws emphasize justice, mercy, and integrity in everyday life. He promises His presence to guide Israel and calls them into covenant relationship sealed with sacrifice and worship. His holiness and nearness define what it means to belong to Him.

Matthew 24:1–31
Jesus speaks of coming upheaval, warning of deception and calling for endurance. History moves toward His visible return in power and glory. God remains sovereign even when the world feels unstable.

Proverbs 4:1–9
A father urges his son to prize wisdom above all else. Wisdom protects, honors, and guides those who embrace her. God’s instruction is a life giving treasure.

Together
God calls His people to faithful obedience rooted in covenant relationship. He gives wisdom for daily living and hope for the future when everything else shakes. Security comes from walking closely with Him in trust and reverence.

February 6, 2026 — Exodus 25:1–26:37; Matthew 24:32–25:13; Psalm 18:37–42

Exodus 25:1–26:37
God provides detailed instructions for the tabernacle, showing His desire to dwell among His people. Every element reflects His holiness and intentional design. Worship is shaped by His revealed pattern rather than human preference.

Matthew 24:32–25:13
Jesus urges watchfulness through parables about readiness. His return will be certain but unexpected, calling for steady faithfulness. God values hearts prepared and alert.

Psalm 18:37–42
David describes God granting victory over enemies. Strength and triumph come from the Lord’s enabling power. God fights for those who trust Him.

Together
God draws near to dwell with His people and calls them to live ready for His purposes. He equips, strengthens, and expects faithful attentiveness. Hope and preparedness grow from confidence in His presence.

February 7, 2026 — Exodus 27:1–28:43; Matthew 25:14–46; Psalm 18:43–50

Exodus 27:1–28:43
The altar, courtyard, and priestly garments reveal that access to God requires mediation and holiness. The priests are set apart to serve in beauty and dignity before Him. God establishes a way for sinful people to approach Him.

Matthew 25:14–46
Jesus teaches accountability through parables of stewardship and final judgment. Faithfulness is measured by action, especially toward those in need. God’s kingdom values responsible trust and compassionate obedience.

Psalm 18:43–50
David praises God for deliverance and enduring love. The Lord exalts and preserves His servant. God’s steadfast love extends beyond one generation.

Together
God provides access to Himself and calls His people to faithful, compassionate service. He is worthy of reverent worship and active obedience. Gratitude flows from recognizing His saving love.

February 8, 2026 — Exodus 29:1–30:38; Matthew 26:1–30; Psalm 19:1–6

Exodus 29:1–30:38
The consecration of priests and instructions for worship highlight the seriousness of approaching God. Regular sacrifice, prayer, and atonement maintain fellowship with Him. God makes a way for ongoing relationship through holy provision.

Matthew 26:1–30
Jesus prepares for the cross while a woman honors Him with costly devotion. At the Passover meal, He identifies the bread and cup with His coming sacrifice. God’s redemptive plan moves forward through willing surrender.

Psalm 19:1–6
Creation declares God’s glory without words. The heavens testify daily to His power and majesty. God’s greatness is evident to all.

Together
God reveals His holiness and glory while providing a path for redemption. Worship, sacrifice, and creation itself point to His majesty. Hearts are drawn to awe and gratitude before Him.

February 9, 2026 — Exodus 31:1–33:6; Matthew 26:31–46; Proverbs 4:10–19

Exodus 31:1–33:6
God fills Bezalel with skill for sacred work, showing that craftsmanship can serve holy purposes. Yet Israel’s impatience leads to the golden calf, exposing how quickly hearts turn. God disciplines but continues guiding His people.

Matthew 26:31–46
Jesus predicts failure among His disciples and then prays in deep anguish. He submits fully to the Father’s will despite the coming suffering. God’s plan advances through obedient surrender.

Proverbs 4:10–19
Wisdom leads on a brightening path, while wickedness walks in darkness. Choices shape direction and destiny. God calls His people to stay on the path of life.

Together
God desires faithful obedience in both work and worship. Even in human weakness, His purposes move forward through willing submission. The path of life is found in trusting and following Him.

February 10, 2026 — Exodus 33:7–34:35; Matthew 26:47–68; Psalm 19:7–14

Exodus 33:7–34:35
Moses meets with God face to face, pleading for His presence to remain with Israel. The Lord reveals His name and character as compassionate, gracious, and faithful. God’s glory shapes those who spend time with Him.

Matthew 26:47–68
Jesus is betrayed, arrested, and falsely accused, yet remains steadfast. Even under injustice, He fulfills God’s redemptive plan. God’s purposes stand firm despite human schemes.

Psalm 19:7–14
God’s law is perfect, reviving and guiding the soul. His words are sweeter than honey and bring light to the eyes. God’s truth shapes hearts and guards lives.

Together
God reveals His character through His presence, His Word, and His saving work. He remains faithful while calling His people to treasure His truth. Transformation comes from knowing Him more deeply.

February 11, 2026 — Exodus 35:1–36:38; Matthew 26:69–27:10; Psalm 20:1–9

Exodus 35:1–36:38
The people respond to God’s call with willing hearts and generous giving. Skilled workers build according to His design, and the work overflows with provision. God delights in wholehearted participation in His purposes.

Matthew 26:69–27:10
Peter’s denial and Judas’s despair reveal different responses to failure. Human weakness is exposed, yet God’s plan moves forward toward redemption. Sin cannot overturn His saving purpose.

Psalm 20:1–9
The psalm expresses confidence in the Lord’s saving power. Trust is placed not in human strength but in God’s name. Victory belongs to Him.

Together
God accomplishes His purposes through willing hearts and despite human failure. He invites trust in His power rather than our own. Hope rests securely in His faithful saving work.