The Faith That Takes

Therefore I say to you, all things you pray and ask for, believe that you have received them, and you will have them.” —Mark 11:24 (ASV)

What a promise! It’s so big, so divine, that our limited hearts can hardly comprehend it. We constantly try to shrink it down to what seems safe or likely. We don’t let it enter our lives the way God gave it—full of His power and energy. If we would let that promise shape our hearts, we would be ready to receive all that God’s love and power wants to do for us.

Faith is not just intellectual agreement with God’s Word or a logical conclusion. True faith is the work of the Holy Spirit in a heart prepared by God’s Word. When that happens, the answer is inevitable—because faith is the guarantee and preview of what’s coming.

“All things whatsoever you pray and ask for, believe that you receive.” Human reasoning wants to limit this with qualifiers like “if it’s God’s will” or “if it’s appropriate.” But that weakens the promise. Jesus meant what He said. He repeats “all things” often to stretch our hearts to believe more. He wants us to know how powerful faith is. The Father gives His power to the one who completely trusts Him. Faith is nourished and strengthened by the "all things" Christ promised. And when we weaken that promise, we weaken our faith.

The “whatsoever” is unconditional, except for the condition of believing. Before we can believe, we must know God’s will. Believing is the natural result of a heart surrendered to God’s Word and Spirit. Once we truly believe, nothing is impossible. So let’s pray with hearts that don’t limit Christ’s “all things” to only what seems possible.

When we pray and ask in faith, we will find the Spirit of faith helping us—most powerfully when we kneel at the throne of grace. Jesus said, “Believe that you receive them.” That means we are to believe we already have what we are asking for—even before we see it. This faith removes mountains.

There’s a kind of prayer where we lay all our requests before God and trust Him to decide what’s best. That kind of prayer gives us peace, because we rest in His will. But the prayer Jesus talks about in Mark 11:24 is different. It is bold. It believes God will do what He promised. It stands on the Spirit’s assurance and knows that it receives exactly what it asks.

When we don’t receive what we’ve asked for, we may not need more prayer—we may just need more praise. When we know the answer is on the way, we should praise God for what we’ve received, even if we haven’t seen it yet.

Sometimes, faith needs to grow through persistent prayer. Elijah knew God would send rain, but he still had to pray seven times. Faith and patience go hand in hand. Faith says, “I’ve received it.” Patience waits until the blessing is visible.

“Believe that you receive them, and you shall have them.” The key word is believe. Between the promise in heaven and its manifestation on earth, believing is the bridge. Praise and prayer are the link. And don’t forget—Jesus Himself said this.

Faith should define what we hope for. God’s Word is a seed; if we hold onto it, it will take root and bear fruit. “All things whatsoever you pray and ask for” are meant to be brought before God. The faith that asks is fed by prayer, and even more, grows through prayer. As we pray, we test our motives, surrender our desires, and grow in confidence. The Spirit helps us discern whether we’re asking rightly. Even when our faith is weak, God invites us to keep praying. Persevering prayer strengthens faith.

“Believe that you receive them.” That’s often misunderstood. It doesn’t mean you’ll see it right away. It means you accept it in prayer just as you accept Christ—by faith. It’s a spiritual action. When you ask God for something according to His Word, you believe it’s already yours. You thank Him as if you’ve already received it.

“And you shall have them.” The gift you held by faith becomes your experience. Once you know you’ve been heard, you don’t need to keep asking. You praise instead.

When we don’t receive what we ask for in faith, we should feel ashamed that we made so little use of the privilege. Maybe our faith is too weak to grasp what’s within reach. But there is hope: Jesus, who brought us this message from the Father, also lived by it. The disciples were amazed at what He did to the fig tree, and Jesus told them they could do the same—even move mountains.

Jesus is our life. He gives us everything He taught. He is the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). The faith He gives is for every child of the Father. It’s within reach of anyone who is childlike, surrendered to the Father’s will and trusting in His Word and power.

So be encouraged! This word comes from Jesus, our Brother and God’s Son. Let’s respond by saying:

“Yes, blessed Lord, we do believe Your Word that we receive whatever we ask.”

Closing Prayer

Lord, teach us to pray.

Blessed Lord, the Father sent You to show us the depth of His love and all the treasures He wants to give. You’ve given us overwhelming promises about the freedom we have in prayer. But we confess—our hearts have accepted so little of it. It’s felt too great for us to believe.

Teach us to take, keep, and use Your powerful Word: “All things whatsoever you pray and ask for, believe that you receive them.” Jesus, our faith must be rooted in You. Your work has freed us from sin and opened the way to the Father. Your love draws us into full fellowship with the Father’s glory and power.

Your Spirit keeps pulling us into deeper faith. We believe that through Your teaching, we will learn to pray in faith. You’ll train us to pray so that we will truly believe we have received what we ask. Teach us to trust, love, and live in You. Through You, may all our prayers rise before the Father. May our souls rest in the assurance that we are heard.

Amen.

Attribution: Adapted from With Christ in the School of Prayer by Andrew Murray. Public Domain. Modernized and formatted.

August 28, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Ezekiel 5–8

Common Theme

God declares judgment against Jerusalem for its rebellion, idolatry, and defilement of His sanctuary. His glory departs from the temple as a sign that His holiness cannot coexist with their corruption.

Questions

  • What does the departure of God’s glory from the temple reveal about His response to persistent sin?
  • How does Ezekiel’s vision challenge us to consider what competes with God’s rightful place in worship?

God Shot

God is holy and will not tolerate the defilement of His name or His dwelling place. His glory is weighty and pure, and when people abandon Him for idols, He withdraws to show that He alone is worthy of worship.

Deeper✝

Ezekiel 5

In this passage, the Lord commands the prophet to use a sharp sword to symbolize the impending destruction of Jerusalem. The hair is divided into three parts: one-third is burned, one-third struck with a sword, and one-third scattered to the wind, representing the fate of the city’s inhabitants. Jerusalem is described as having rebelled against God’s laws, leading to severe judgments. The Lord declares that He will execute unprecedented judgments, resulting in extreme suffering, including famine and violence among families. The city will become a desolation and a reproach among nations, facing divine wrath through famine, wild beasts, and pestilence. Ultimately, the passage emphasizes God’s anger and the consequences of Jerusalem’s disobedience.

Ezekiel 6

The LORD commands the prophet to prophesy against the mountains of Israel, declaring destruction upon them. High places and altars will be desolate, and the slain will be laid before idols. The cities will become waste, and the people will recognize the LORD through their suffering. Some will survive and remember their transgressions against God. The LORD expresses sorrow over their idolatry and announces that calamities such as sword, famine, and pestilence will befall them. Ultimately, the people will know that He is the LORD when they see the devastation around their idols and altars.

Ezekiel 7

The passage conveys a dire message from the LORD regarding impending judgment on the land of Israel. It announces the end has come, with disasters approaching and divine wrath set to be unleashed. The inhabitants are warned that their abominations will lead to punishment, and they will recognize the LORD’s authority through their suffering. The text describes a day of turmoil, where pride and violence have taken root, leading to the downfall of the people. Economic activities will be futile, as the wrath of the LORD overshadows all. Those who survive will be filled with despair and shame, unable to find solace or redemption. The passage emphasizes the futility of wealth in the face of divine judgment, as it becomes a source of iniquity. The LORD will allow foreign nations to invade and profane the land, leading to widespread violence and anguish. Ultimately, the people will experience terror and despair, realizing that their actions have led to their downfall, and they will know that the LORD is in control.

Ezekiel 8

In the sixth year, the Lord’s hand came upon the speaker, revealing a vision of a man-like figure with fire and brightness. The Spirit lifted him to Jerusalem, showing him the "image of jealousy" at the inner court’s gateway, provoking God’s anger. He was instructed to observe the abominations committed by Israel, which drove God away from His sanctuary. Upon digging through a wall, he discovered vile images and idols, with seventy elders worshiping in secret, believing God had forsaken them. He witnessed women mourning for Tammuz and men worshiping the sun, turning their backs to the temple. God expressed His anger at these actions, declaring that He would not spare or show pity despite their cries for help.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

August 27, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Ezekiel 1–4

Common Theme

God reveals His glory and holiness through visions and symbolic acts, commissioning Ezekiel as His prophet to a rebellious people. The opening chapters establish both God’s overwhelming majesty and the weight of judgment coming on Israel.

Questions

  • How does Ezekiel’s vision of God’s glory in chapter 1 shape our understanding of His holiness and transcendence?
  • Why does God use symbolic actions through Ezekiel to communicate His message instead of only words?

God Shot

In these chapters, God reveals Himself as the glorious, sovereign King whose presence is not confined to the temple but fills the heavens. He is the One who speaks with authority and commissions His servants, ensuring that His word will be proclaimed even to a hardened people.

Deeper✝

Ezekiel 1

In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, Ezekiel, a priest among the exiles by the Chebar canal, experienced a divine vision. It was the fifth year of King Jehoiachin’s exile when the word of the LORD came to him. He witnessed a stormy wind from the north, accompanied by a great cloud and brightness, with fire flashing within it. From this fire emerged four living creatures resembling humans, each with four faces and four wings. Their legs were straight, and their feet resembled those of a calf, shining like burnished bronze. Each creature had human hands under their wings, and they moved in unison without turning. Their faces included a human face, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. Ezekiel also saw wheels beside the creatures, appearing like beryl, with a design of a wheel within a wheel, full of eyes. The creatures and wheels moved together, guided by the spirit within them. Above the creatures was an expanse resembling crystal, and above it, a throne with a figure resembling a human. The brightness around this figure was awe-inspiring, representing the glory of the LORD, which caused Ezekiel to fall on his face.

Ezekiel 2

Ezekiel is called by God to deliver a message to the rebellious people of Israel. He is instructed to stand and listen as the Spirit empowers him. Despite their stubbornness, he must proclaim God’s words, regardless of whether they listen. Ezekiel is warned not to be afraid of their hostility and is shown a scroll containing lamentations and woes, symbolizing the gravity of his mission.

Ezekiel 3

In this passage, the speaker, referred to as "Son of man," is instructed to consume a scroll, symbolizing the words of God, which he finds sweet. He is then commanded to deliver God’s message to the house of Israel, emphasizing that they are not a foreign people but rather his own. Despite this, God warns that the Israelites will be unwilling to listen due to their stubbornness. The speaker is fortified with a hard forehead to match the people’s resistance and is told to receive God’s words in his heart and share them with the exiles, regardless of their response.

After seven days of overwhelming silence among the exiles, God appoints the speaker as a watchman for Israel, responsible for warning the wicked and the righteous. Failure to warn them will result in dire consequences for both the speaker and the individuals. The speaker is then instructed to isolate himself, bound and mute, until God chooses to speak through him again, reiterating the rebellious nature of the people he is sent to address.

Ezekiel 4

In this passage, the prophet is instructed to symbolize the siege of Jerusalem by creating a model of the city and enacting a siege. He is to lie on his left side for 390 days, representing Israel’s punishment, and then on his right side for 40 days for Judah’s punishment. During this time, he must eat a specific diet of grains, prepared in a way that signifies the unclean conditions the Israelites will face. God declares that the people will experience scarcity and anxiety regarding food and water, leading to despair and deterioration due to their punishment. The prophet expresses concern about the unclean food, but God allows a substitute.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

August 26, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Lamentations 3-5

Common Theme
These chapters move from deep despair to renewed hope in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Even amid judgment and devastation, the writer confesses that God’s mercies never end and that restoration can only come through Him.

Questions

  • How does remembering God’s faithfulness change the way we process suffering and loss?
  • What role does repentance play in turning from despair to hope in God’s mercy?

God Shot
In the middle of destruction, God is revealed as unfailing in love and faithful in mercy. His justice brings discipline, but His compassion ensures that His people are never fully consumed.

Deeper✝

Lamentations 3

The text expresses deep anguish and suffering experienced by the speaker, who feels abandoned and tormented by God. The speaker describes being besieged by darkness, bitterness, and physical affliction, feeling trapped and unable to escape. Despite calling for help, their prayers seem unheard, leading to a sense of desolation and hopelessness. The speaker reflects on their afflictions and the relentless pain, feeling mocked and filled with bitterness. However, amidst this despair, they find a glimmer of hope in the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Lord, affirming that His mercies are renewed every morning. The speaker emphasizes the importance of waiting for the Lord and bearing burdens quietly, trusting in His eventual compassion. They acknowledge the need for self-examination and repentance, recognizing their transgressions. The text culminates in a plea for divine justice against their enemies, expressing a desire for God to see their suffering and to judge their cause. Ultimately, it conveys a struggle between despair and hope, highlighting the enduring faithfulness of God even in times of great distress.

Lamentations 4

The text reflects on the devastation and suffering experienced by the people of Zion, lamenting the loss of their former glory and the dire state of their society. Gold has lost its luster, and the once-cherished sons of Zion are now seen as worthless. The community faces extreme hunger, with children begging for food and mothers resorting to cannibalism. The wrath of the Lord is evident, as Jerusalem faces destruction due to the sins of its leaders. The people are scattered and shunned, unable to find help or refuge. Their pursuers are relentless, and hope is fading. The text concludes with a warning to Edom, indicating that while Zion’s punishment is ending, Edom will face its own reckoning for its iniquities.

Lamentations 5

The text expresses a deep lament to the LORD, highlighting the suffering and disgrace faced by the people. They describe their loss of inheritance, becoming orphans, and the burdens of oppression. The community is weary, struggling for basic needs, and suffering from violence and humiliation. The joy has vanished, and they acknowledge their sins. Despite their despair, they call for restoration and renewal, pleading for the LORD to remember them and not forsake them forever.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

Freedom Starts Today – Study Guide Week 7

Study Guide: Week 7 (Days 43–49)

Day 43 — Sinner Who Saints or Saint Who Sins?

"There are only two kinds of men: the righteous, who believe themselves sinners; the rest, sinners, who believe themselves righteous." — Blaise Pascal

Summary:
In this devotional, the author vulnerably shares a list of past sins and brokenness to make a point about identity in Christ. The central truth is that believers are saints who still sin, not sinners who occasionally act like saints. Scripture overwhelmingly refers to Christians as “saints” (holy ones) rather than “sinners.” This distinction in identity changes how we see ourselves and live our lives. Paul, despite calling himself a sinner once in 1 Timothy 1:15, most often addresses believers as saints, even those in the morally messy Corinthian church. Identity in Christ precedes behavior, and when God looks at His children, He calls them saints.

Prayer:
Father, I thank You that in Christ I am called a saint, holy and set apart for You. Though I still stumble, my identity is secure in Your grace. Help me to walk by the Spirit today and not by the flesh, remembering that You see me as Your beloved, not as my failures. Keep me humble and dependent on You in every struggle. Amen.

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 2

The passage emphasizes the importance of proclaiming Jesus Christ and his crucifixion without relying on human wisdom or eloquence. The speaker expresses that their message was delivered in weakness, relying on the Spirit’s power to strengthen faith. It contrasts worldly wisdom with the hidden wisdom of God, which is revealed through the Spirit. The text highlights that only those with the Spirit can understand divine truths, while the natural person finds them foolish. Ultimately, believers possess the mind of Christ, enabling them to discern spiritual matters.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does seeing yourself as a saint rather than a sinner change your daily perspective?
  2. Why is it dangerous for a believer to primarily identify as a sinner?
  3. What does this teaching reveal about God’s perspective toward His children?

Day 44 — Head Stuck in a Bed

"It is impossible for that man to despair who remembers that his Helper is omnipotent." — Jeremy Taylor

Summary:
A personal story about a toddler getting his head stuck between a mattress and bed frame illustrates the trap of sin. Sin often begins with curiosity and short-term pleasure but leads to entrapment and pain. Human efforts to free ourselves fail, but God—our loving Father—is both willing and able to set us free. Just as the father in the story wasn’t angry with his son, God is not angry with His children who cry out for rescue. He delights to deliver the righteous from all their troubles.

Prayer:
Father, I cry out to You, my Deliverer. So often I find myself stuck in traps of my own choosing, powerless to free myself. Thank You that You do not turn away in anger but come near with compassion to rescue me. Today I place my weakness in Your hands—be my strength, my freedom, and my joy. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Psalm 34

In this passage, David expresses his unwavering praise for the LORD, encouraging others to join him in exalting God’s name. He recounts how he sought the LORD and was delivered from fears and troubles, emphasizing that those who look to God will not be ashamed. David invites listeners to experience the goodness of the LORD, assuring that those who fear Him lack nothing. He teaches the importance of avoiding evil, seeking peace, and highlights that the LORD is attentive to the righteous, delivering them from afflictions and redeeming His servants.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think people often try to free themselves from sin before turning to God?
  2. How does this story change your perspective on God’s response when you feel trapped?
  3. What does Psalm 34:17–19 reveal about God’s heart toward the brokenhearted?

Day 45 — Premium Carpet Pads

"A broken heart would sit for ever to hear of the righteousness without works." — Robert Murray M’Cheyne

Summary:
The author uses a sales conversation about carpet pads to illustrate the need for a new heart from God. Stains on carpet often come from deep within the pad—just as sin comes from deep within the human heart. External clean-up efforts may hide sin temporarily, but pressure brings it to the surface. Through Christ, God replaces our old, sin-stained heart with a new one that is impervious to sin’s permanent stain. While we may still sin outwardly, our identity and heart remain cleansed through Jesus’ sacrifice.

Prayer:
Father, I praise You for giving me a new heart through Jesus, one that is washed clean and sealed by Your Spirit. Forgive me for the sins I confess before You now, and wash me again in the cleansing power of Christ’s blood. Thank You that my identity is no longer stained by guilt but made righteous in Your sight. Keep me tender and quick to repent, resting in Your grace. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10

The text discusses the significance of Christ’s sacrifice, emphasizing that the law and its sacrifices were merely shadows of the true reality found in Christ. It states that the repeated sacrifices of animals could not truly cleanse sins, as they only served as reminders of sin. In contrast, Christ’s single offering of His body has perfected those who are being sanctified. The passage highlights that through Christ, believers can confidently enter the holy places, having their hearts cleansed and bodies washed. It encourages believers to hold fast to their hope and to support one another in love and good works, while warning against deliberate sin after knowing the truth, which leads to judgment. The text recalls the endurance of early believers through suffering and encourages them not to lose their confidence, which carries great reward. It concludes with a reminder that the righteous live by faith and that true believers will not shrink back but will preserve their souls.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How does the carpet pad analogy help you understand the difference between behavior modification and heart transformation?
  2. In what ways do we try to “clean” ourselves without relying on God’s work?
  3. How does Hebrews 10:22 assure you of your standing before God?

Day 46 — Cold Spaghetti Noodles

"We must draw upon God’s store of grace from day to day, as we need it." — D. L. Moody

Summary:
A summer in Haiti taught the author that something doesn’t have to be amazing to be sustaining. The daily intake of God’s Word may not always feel emotionally powerful, but it is necessary spiritual nourishment. Just as physical bread sustains life, daily engagement with Scripture and prayer keeps the believer spiritually strong. Jesus’ prayer in John 17 shows that God’s Word sanctifies His people, even when we don’t “feel” it.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your Word that sustains me daily, even when it feels ordinary. Teach me not to rely on feelings but on the truth that You sanctify me through Your Word. Feed me with the living bread of Scripture today so that I might be strengthened to walk in holiness. Let me trust that what You give me is always enough. Amen.

Scripture Reading: John 17

In the High Priestly Prayer, Jesus addresses God, acknowledging that the time has come for Him to be glorified so that He can glorify the Father. He emphasizes that eternal life is knowing the true God and Jesus Christ. Jesus reflects on His mission, stating He has revealed God’s name to those given to Him and that they have kept His word. He prays specifically for His followers, asking God to protect them and unify them as He and the Father are one. Jesus expresses His desire for all believers to be united and to share in His glory. He concludes by affirming His knowledge of God and His commitment to making God’s name known, so that God’s love may dwell in His followers.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Why do you think God provides daily bread rather than weekly or yearly bread?
  2. How do you handle spiritual “cold spaghetti noodle” days when you don’t feel emotionally connected?
  3. What habits help you maintain consistent intake of God’s Word?

Day 47 — Stay by Dad

"Cover, Lord, what has been: govern what shall be." — Theodore Beza

Summary:
The command “Stay by Dad” in busy parking lots is a picture of walking closely with God. Staying near the Father keeps us safe from spiritual harm, even though trials will still come. Galatians 5:16 promises that walking by the Spirit will keep us from gratifying the desires of the flesh. This daily choice to walk with God provides both protection and guidance.

Prayer:
Father, keep me close to You today. I know that wandering from Your side leaves me vulnerable to sin and destruction. Thank You for the promise that when I walk by the Spirit, I will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Guide my steps, guard my heart, and help me to cling to You as my refuge and strength. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Galatians 4

In Galatians 4, Paul explains that an heir, while a child, is akin to a slave, under guardians until maturity. He emphasizes that God sent His Son to redeem those under the law, allowing them to become adopted sons and heirs through God. Paul expresses concern for the Galatians, who, having known God, are reverting to old, worthless practices. He recalls their initial acceptance of him despite his ailments and questions why they have turned against him. Paul uses the allegory of Hagar and Sarah to illustrate two covenants: one leading to slavery and the other to freedom. He asserts that believers are children of promise, like Isaac, and should not be enslaved but embrace their identity as free children of God.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What does it practically look like to “stay by Dad” in your daily life?
  2. How does Galatians 5:16 connect to resisting temptation?
  3. In what ways has walking closely with God helped you avoid spiritual danger?

Day 48 — One Word for Life

"My God will lavish it upon me." — Amy Carmichael

Summary:
The story of a child whose primary word is “Momma” illustrates the simplicity of dependence on God. Just as the child calls out for a person rather than a thing, we are invited to call out to “Father” in every situation. God already knows our needs before we ask, and He delights to provide. This dependence is marked by humility, trust, and relationship, not a lengthy list of requests.

Prayer:
Father, I come to You simply, like a child calling out to his parent. You know my needs before I speak them, and You delight to provide for me. Where I am weak, be my strength; where I am restless, be my peace. Teach me to depend on You with the trust of a child, resting in Your perfect love. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Matthew 5

The Sermon on the Mount begins with Jesus teaching the crowds from a mountain, delivering the Beatitudes, which bless the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, and others who embody virtues like mercy and purity. He emphasizes that those who are persecuted for righteousness will inherit the kingdom of heaven. Jesus calls his followers the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world," urging them to let their good works shine to glorify God.

He clarifies that he has come to fulfill the Law, not abolish it, and stresses the importance of adhering to commandments. Jesus expands on the Law, stating that anger and lust are equivalent to murder and adultery, respectively, and advises reconciliation and self-discipline. He addresses divorce, stating that it should only occur for reasons of sexual immorality.

Jesus teaches against swearing oaths, advocating for simple honesty. He challenges the principle of retaliation, encouraging non-resistance to evil and promoting generosity. Finally, he instructs his followers to love their enemies and pray for persecutors, highlighting that true love extends beyond reciprocal relationships. The sermon concludes with the call to strive for perfection, mirroring the nature of God.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How might your prayer life change if you focused more on calling out to “Father” instead of listing needs?
  2. What does it mean that God knows what you need before you ask?
  3. How does dependence on God reflect childlike faith?

Day 49 — The Ten C’s of Seeking God’s Will

"Love God and do as you please." — Augustine

Summary:
In recovery from alcoholism, the author sought God’s will with desperation. The Ten C’s—Communication with God, Conviction, Counselor, Church, Community, Canon, Circumstances, Capabilities, Cost, and Calling—serve as biblical filters for discerning God’s direction. Using multiple principles together provides greater clarity and protection from self-deception. The process may take time, but God promises to guide those who trust Him and acknowledge Him in all their ways.

Prayer:
Father, I surrender my plans, my desires, and my decisions to You. Teach me to seek not my own comfort or glory but Your will and Your kingdom. Give me wisdom, discernment, and courage to follow where You lead, even when the path is unclear. Above all, may my life echo the prayer of Jesus: “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Amen.

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 3
Chapter 3

In the last days, difficult times will arise as people become self-centered, greedy, proud, and abusive, lacking self-control and love for good. They will appear godly but deny its power, and should be avoided. Some will mislead others, particularly vulnerable individuals. Despite opposition to the truth, their folly will be evident. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and teachings, knowing that all Scripture is divinely inspired and beneficial for teaching, correction, and equipping for good works.
Discussion Questions:

  1. Which of the Ten C’s do you naturally lean on most when making decisions?
  2. How can using all ten help prevent making decisions based on personal desires alone?
  3. What role does trust in God play in decision-making according to Proverbs 3:5–6?

✝
Excerpted from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

August 25, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Lamentations 1-2

Common Theme

Lamentations 1-2 depicts Jerusalem’s devastation under God’s judgment, highlighting the city’s deep grief, isolation, and suffering because of sin. These chapters emphasize both the severity of divine justice and the sorrow of God’s people under His discipline.

Questions

  • How does recognizing the consequences of sin in Lamentations help us better understand the seriousness of turning away from God?
  • What does the grief expressed in these chapters reveal about the depth of relationship between God and His people?

God Shot

In these chapters, God is revealed as holy and just, unwilling to overlook rebellion against Him. At the same time, His grief over His people’s suffering shows that His judgments are not detached or cold, but flow from His covenantal love and righteousness.

Deeper✝

Lamentations 1

Lamentations 1:1–22 is an acrostic poem featuring two voices: the poet and personified Jerusalem. The chapter highlights Jerusalem’s tragic state, portraying her as a mourning widow who was once noble but is now enslaved. The poet’s voice expresses sorrow over Jerusalem’s sinfulness, which has led to her suffering and exile. The imagery emphasizes her grief, as she weeps and groans, reflecting on her affliction. The chapter underscores the connection between sin and suffering, with the Lord’s judgment resulting in Jerusalem’s anguish. The poet captures Jerusalem’s longing for vindication against her enemies, a sentiment echoed in other biblical texts. The application draws a parallel to the tragic death of John F. Kennedy Jr., likening the loss of ideals associated with him to the loss felt by God’s people regarding Zion and Judah. The poetry of Lamentations serves as a powerful expression of confession and lament, reminding readers of the consequences of failure and the importance of seeking divine response.

Lamentations 2

Lamentations 2:1–22 presents a poignant exploration of Jerusalem’s suffering and God’s judgment. The chapter begins with a third-person description of the city’s anguish, highlighting God’s anger and the destruction of its walls and palaces. The poet shifts to a first-person perspective in verse 11, expressing personal grief for "my people," suggesting a connection between the poet and personified Jerusalem. This alternation between description and lament deepens the emotional impact of the text.

The chapter is structured into distinct voices: the poet’s descriptions of Jerusalem’s plight (2:1–10, 14–17), his personal lament (2:11–13), a call to the city’s walls to cry out (2:18–19), and Jerusalem’s address to God (2:20–22). The imagery emphasizes Jerusalem’s former glory, referred to as the "splendor" of Israel, now reduced to desolation. The metaphor of cutting off the "horns" of Israel symbolizes the loss of strength and honor.

God’s rejection of the temple and the leaders’ failures underscore the severity of judgment. The poet questions whether God has ever treated anyone else so harshly, portraying God as an adversary. The application emphasizes the importance of expressing genuine feelings in the face of tragedy, affirming that God understands human despair. Ultimately, it conveys hope that all experiences work toward a greater good in God’s purpose, aligning believers with Christ’s image.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

August 24, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Jeremiah 51-52

Common Theme

God declares the certainty of Babylon’s downfall because of its pride, idolatry, and violence against His people. At the same time, He confirms the inevitability of Judah’s judgment and exile, yet His justice ensures that no oppressor escapes His hand.

Questions

  • How does God’s judgment on Babylon reassure us that He holds even the strongest nations accountable to His righteousness?
  • What can Judah’s fall and exile teach us about trusting in human power versus trusting in God?

God Shot

God is the sovereign Judge who humbles empires and brings justice against every proud oppressor. He is also faithful to His word, ensuring both the discipline of His people and the ultimate vindication of His name among the nations.

Deeper✝

Jeremiah 51

The narrative continues with a focus on God’s creative power and wisdom, contrasting Him with the foolishness of idol-makers. Babylon’s neighbors, particularly the Medes, are identified as threats, and Jerusalem personifies the suffering inflicted by Babylon. The judgment extends to Babylon’s gods, including Bel, and alludes to the Tower of Babel. The chapter concludes with Seraiah’s symbolic act of throwing a scroll into the river, signifying Babylon’s inevitable downfall.

The application reflects on the ongoing strife in the Middle East, particularly the exodus of Arab Christians, suggesting it may be a means of divine protection. The text encourages Christians to recognize the universal need for grace, as no group is free from moral failure. Ultimately, God’s promise of rescue is rooted in His grace, reminding believers of the necessity of grace for salvation across generations.

Jeremiah 52

Jeremiah 52 recounts the fall of Jerusalem and the capture of King Zedekiah, detailing events from the last year of his reign. It compares the accounts of Zedekiah’s capture and the city’s destruction with those in Jeremiah 39 and 2 Kings 25, highlighting differences in details, such as the burning of the temple and the looting of sacred items. The chapter concludes with references to two waves of exiles and the fate of Jehoiachin, emphasizing the continuity of the Davidic line despite exile. The text reflects on God’s faithfulness and the mystery of grace, suggesting that even in despair, hope remains through God’s redemptive work, culminating in the arrival of Christ. The ending serves as an encouragement for faithful living and discipleship.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

Reflection: Alone With God

Scripture

  • “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:6)
  • “We know that we have the requests we asked of Him.” (1 John 5:15)
  • “He who comes to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Teaching

Prayer is not about trying to convince God with many words or urgent pleading. He already knows what you need before you ask. Instead, prayer is about childlike trust in a Father who loves, sees, and cares.

When you pray, shut out distractions and enter the secret place with God. There the Father is waiting for you. Jesus Himself will teach you to pray in that quiet space. Being alone with God should be your greatest joy and strength.

God is not concerned with how little you bring Him, but with how much He longs to give to you. His heart is full of tender, caring love. Even when your heart feels cold, sinful, or dark, His presence brings light and warmth.

Encouragement

  • Prayer in secret cannot be wasted. God promises to reward it openly.
  • The blessing of prayer doesn’t depend on strong feelings, but on God’s power and love.
  • Faith grows as we trust that our Father sees, hears, and knows our needs.
  • Prayer is not forcing an unwilling God, but resting in a willing and faithful Father.

Application

  • Go often into your “inner chamber” — a place where you can be still with God.
  • Close the door, silence distractions, and simply look to the Father.
  • Trust Him to answer in His way and His time.
  • Let your prayer be less about many words and more about faith, quietness, and confidence.

Prayer

Father, You see me, You hear me, and You know what I need even before I ask. Teach me to treasure time with You in the secret place. Give me faith to trust that You will answer and reward what is done in secret. Let my greatest joy be to be alone with You and to know that You supply every need according to Your riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Attribution

Excerpt adapted from Andrew Murray, With Christ in the School of Prayer (1885).

August 23, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Jeremiah 49-50

Common Theme

These chapters declare God’s judgment against the nations surrounding Israel, culminating with Babylon itself. The Lord reveals His sovereignty over all kingdoms and His power to bring down even the mightiest oppressors.

Questions

  • What does God’s judgment on the nations teach us about His authority over world powers?
  • How does God’s eventual judgment of Babylon give hope to His people in exile?

God Shot

God is revealed as the righteous Judge who cannot overlook pride, idolatry, and oppression. At the same time, He is the Deliverer who rises to defend His people and overthrow their enemies.

Deeper✝

Jeremiah 49

This chapter contains a series of oracles against foreign nations: Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Kedar, Hazor, and Elam. Each prophecy highlights God’s judgment against nations that opposed or mistreated His people, showing that His sovereignty extends beyond Israel. While judgment is certain, the prophecy concerning Elam also includes a promise of restoration, underscoring God’s justice and mercy operating together.

Jeremiah 50

This chapter proclaims the fall of Babylon, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and the impending restoration of Israel and Judah. The text highlights the joy of nations previously subjugated by Babylon, as they anticipate its downfall. The prophet encourages the exiled Israelites to flee Babylon, signaling a return to their homeland. Babylon’s shame is depicted through poetic imagery, portraying it as a mother figure that will face judgment for its actions against God’s people. The text draws parallels between Babylon and Assyria, asserting that God will judge oppressors.


✝Deeper excerpt from NIV Application Commentary, One-Volume Edition.

God Has Not Forgotten You

Reflection

You may fear that the Lord has passed you by, but it is not so. He who counts the stars and calls them by their names is in no danger of forgetting His own children. He knows your situation as thoroughly as if you were the only creature He ever made, or the only saint He ever loved. Rest in His compassion and draw near to Him in peace.

Prayer

Lord, You make a way out of no way.
You have already planned a pathway through the valley of impossibility. Help me to operate with faith, not just facts.

Amen.

Attribution: Reflection adapted from Morning and Evening by Charles Spurgeon. Prayer from 100 Days of Believing Bigger by Marshawn Evans Daniels.