Jacob Blesses His Sons
There are a few important realities we cannot ignore: the certain eventual death of every man, the definite consequences of sins and the uniqueness of every person. How can the story of a dying Jacob blessing his different sons according to what was appropriate to them also present a noteworthy lesson for all of us? How does the grace of God play out in the death of his saints, in giving blessings to those who repent from sins, and in uniting people with different gifts and inheritance?
Testifying God’s Faithfulness
Our typical human nature tends to complain when we meet misfortunes in life, but have God proven your despair and unbelief wrong in the end? Have He surprised you with grace you didn’t imagine? Through the many testimonies of biblical characters, we are reminded that though they also had their share of adversities and despairing moments, God kept His promises to them ultimately. How about your own testimony? Are you able to confirm God’s faithfulness in your life and share those testimonies with people around you?
From Bitter To Better
We know God is good, yet sometimes we can’t help but feel that what He has allowed to happen to us taste bitter. It could be an illness, a difficult marriage, a toxic family environment, an unfair boss, the death of someone dear, even the current pandemic, and the list goes on. Can God have better plans in our bitter encounters? Instead of feeling bitter, can we grow better?
Wobbly Idols, Steady God
What is the most dangerous sin that we need to guard ourselves against, which the Bible repeatedly warn us about? Is God’s presence a blessing or trouble for you? What if you sometimes secretly feel in your heart that God seems to have lost – lost to sin, suffering, the world’s culture, people who do not fear Him?
Blessed To Bless
It is simplistic to think that God’s people will be exempted from troubles in life. Christians are also hit by global crisis, such as the current pandemic, but are you able to confirm how God is showing you special care despite the difficult situation you are in? As you taste more of God’s blessings, are you also more willing to be a channel of blessing to others, showing them God’s kindness and glory?
Combating Boredom
Are you someone who is easily bored? Do you feel increasingly listless and isolated especially with the Covid restrictions? Though it may sound petty to be complaining about boredom, can you identify some real dangers of boredom? What if you also find God a bore and prayers unexciting? How then can we combat boredom so that our lives can be joyful and meaningful again?
Worried About Livelihood?
Finances and livelihood are critical to our survival and people are naturally concerned about whether they have enough to live on. Especially when the pandemic lingers for so long, people, including Christians, may increasingly worry about their livelihood. Our Lord Jesus is also concerned about our survival, but He does not want His people to be bound by worries, as He is with us. In fact, man’s utmost concern should not be earthly needs but the relationship with God.
Uncertain Move With God’s Assurance
What does it mean to have a God who is always with us and who is for us? One assurance is that whenever we seek Him with our heart, especially in times of uncertainty, He will be found by us to provide us with timely answer and help. Importantly, since we belong to this one true and faithful God, we should not be influenced by the religions and cultures of the world, but be set apart for Him.
Guard Against “Distancing” From God
COVID social distancing may have taken a toll on some people, as they cannot enjoy the same amount of human touch like before. Thankfully, though human closeness can be insecure due to human or situational factors, nothing can separate us from the love of God. Yet, we see some people drift from God intentionally or unintentionally. The truth is, we are not safe being apart from God. If we are only following God at a distance, we will not enjoy the best of His presence. Especially during a pandemic crisis when we need God more, pray that we guard against distancing ourselves from Him.
Finding Assurance In Uncertainties
Most people view ‘uncertainty’ as a bad thing, because people in general do not like ambiguity, but we like to know what to expect, and be in control. When we cannot have control over our lives, we feel frustrated. But instead of giving us control and clarity, God wants to give us a better gift — God Himself. Are you feeling worried and fearful because of uncertainties? How can you find assurance in the face of uncertainties?
