NOVEMBER 30
This is a warning for worldly-minded Christians:
James 4:4: "Ye [you] [spiritual] adulterers and adulteresses [referring to Christians who are unfaithful to God], know ye not [don't you know] that the friendship of the world [i.e., loving the things of this world (unsaved people, worldly pleasures, etc.) more than we love God] is enmity with [or hostility against, or 'shows that we are actively opposed to or are unfriendly toward'] God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."
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Regarding the above verse, Matthew Henry wrote:
"… A man may have a competent portion [or 'a sufficient amount'] of the good things of this life, and yet may keep himself in the love of God; but he who sets his heart upon the world, who places his happiness in it [the world], and will conform [adapt] himself to it [the world, meaning he will do what everyone else does], and [will] do any thing rather than lose its [the world's] friendship, he is an enemy to God; it is constructive treason [or, in this case, a desire to help God's enemies] and rebellion against God to set the world upon his [God's] throne in our hearts …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/james/4.html, "Verses 1-10," "v. 4")
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In addition, Albert Barnes said:
"… This spirit [which rules in the hearts of those who avowedly (admittedly) seek this world as their portion] exists in all cases where no worldly interest is sacrificed for religion; where everything that religion peculiarly [especially] requires is sacrificed for the world. If this be so [or 'if this is true'], then there are many professing Christians [i.e., people who have stated publicly that they are Christians] who are the 'enemies of God.' … They have never known what is true friendship for him [God], and by their lives they show that they can be ranked only among his foes [enemies]. It becomes every professing Christian, therefore, to examine himself with the deepest earnestness [seriousness, sincerity] to determine whether he is characteristically a friend of the world or [a friend] of God; whether he is living for this life only, or is animated [energized] by the high and pure principles of those who are the friends of God [or 'who are true Christians']. The great Searcher of hearts [i.e., God] cannot be deceived [fooled], and soon our appropriate place will be assigned [to] us, and our final Judge [the Lord Jesus Christ] will determine to which class of the two great divisions of the human family we belong - to those who are the friends of the world, or to those who are the friends of God …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-4.html, "Verse 4")
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GotQuestions.org has an article about today's verse. It's called "What does it mean that friendship with the world is enmity with God (James 4:4)?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/friendship-world-enmity-God.html.
NOVEMBER 29
In a letter to the Christian church at Philippi, the apostle Paul wrote:
Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things [such as starting and finishing my work, bearing (enduring) all trials (problems) in life, resisting temptation, etc.] through [Jesus] Christ which strengtheneth [or 'who strengthens'] me."
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Remember that, if you're a born-again Christian, you're not alone. Jesus helped Paul face the hardships in his daily life (see note below*), and he'll help you, too.
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GotQuestions.org has an article about today's verse. It's entitled "Can I really do all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13)?"and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/I-can-do-all-things-through-Christ.html.
* * * * *
"The Apostle Paul faced many trials and tribulations, including:
"Imprisonment: Paul was imprisoned for over five years for preaching the gospel.
"Beatings: Paul was beaten with rods and scourges. Jewish leaders gave him 39 lashes five times.
"Stoning: Paul was stoned once.
"Shipwrecks: Paul was shipwrecked three times, including one time when he was adrift at sea for a night and a day.
"Dangers from robbers: Paul faced danger from robbers who would try to mug isolated travelers.
"Dangers from hostile mobs: Paul faced hostile mobs in the cities where he preached.
"Dangers from false Christians: Paul faced danger and betrayal from those who said they were his friends.
"Physical discomforts: Paul faced physical discomforts such as hunger, thirst, cold, and sleeplessness.
"Thorn in the flesh: Paul faced a 'thorn in the flesh', which was a trial that God did not remove but helped Paul find strength in his weakness.
"Paul's trials and tribulations are described in 2 Corinthians 11:23-33."
(Source for quote: "AI Overview" on Google)
NOVEMBER 28
Psalm 106:1: "Praise ye [you] the LORD [God]. O give thanks unto the LORD [always, for all things]; for [because] he is good [morally good, righteous]: for his mercy [kindness, compassion, faithfulness, forgiveness] endureth [endures, lasts] for ever."
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Today is Thanksgiving in the United States, and many people are looking forward to eating a delicious turkey dinner with all of the trimmings (e.g., stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, cornbread or dinner rolls, green bean casserole, pie, etc.), If you're one of those people, I hope that you have a wonderful day.
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Born-again Christians may also be wondering, "What should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving?" For the answer to that question, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/thanksgiving-Christian.html.
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Note: Hopefully, you're already born again, or saved. If not, and you would like to be, you'll find detailed instructions in the gospel tracts that are located in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
NOVEMBER 24-27
Deuteronomy 5:11: "Thou [you] shalt [shall] not take the name of the LORD thy [your] God in vain: for [because] the LORD will not hold him [or her] guiltless [innocent, without guilt] that taketh [takes] his name in vain."
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This is commandment number three of the Ten Commandments, which were written on two tablets of stone with the "finger of God" and then given to Moses on Mount Sinai. These commandments are known as the moral law (see note below*) and still apply not only to Jewish people (for whom they were originally intended) but also to everyone else around the world.
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In an article entitled "What does it mean to take the Lord's name in vain?" by GotQuestions.org, we are told that"[b]ecause of the greatness of the name of God, any use of God's name that brings dishonor on Him or on His character is taking His name in vain …"
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Examples from that Got Questions article include:
-- Using God's name while swearing.
-- Not treating God with reverence (admiration) and respect.
-- In the Old Testament: Failing to perform an oath or vow (i.e., keep a promise) made in God's name.
-- Professing Christians: Deliberately and continually disobeying the commands of Jesus Christ.
-- Misrepresenting Christ, either intentionally or through ignorance of the Christian faith.
(Source: https://www.gotquestions.org/Lords-name-vain.html)
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Another article entitled "What does it mean to take the Lord's name in vain?" says:
"… to take the Lord's name in vain means to use it in a manner that is not reverent [respectful]. The phrase, 'the Lord's name,' includes words such as 'God,' 'Lord,' 'Jesus,' and 'Christ.' These words are never to be used in any form of exclamation, swearing, or disrespect such as 'Oh my ***.' They are always and only supposed to be used in a manner that glorifies God.
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The article goes on to provide these specific examples of taking God's name in vain:
"Taking God's name in vain: Swearing
"The entertainment industry is full of examples of people using the Lord's name in vain. A Christian needs only to watch TV, a sitcom [situation comedy], a movie, awards banquet, etc. for a short time in order to hear the name of God invoked [referred to] by non-Christians in a casual or flippant [thoughtless] way. Of course, this is not limited to the entertainment industry. People at work, school, and even our friends and family [members] sometimes routinely use God's name and title in exclamations of amazement, ridicule [mockery], and other emotional, explosive situations. This is wrong.
"Taking God's name in vain: Humor
"Sometimes people will take God's name in vain by making a joke about God, or some situation dealing with the truth of God's word, the person of [Jesus] Christ, or God in general. Christians ought [should] not participate in any situation where a joke, or in [an?] innuendo [insinuation], or disrespectful intention about God is used in humor.
"Claim that 'God told me'
"Sometimes Christians will invoke the name of God when they say 'God told me to…' or 'God told me that…' and it turns out that what they're stating is unbiblical. In that sense, they have used the name of God in vain. Unfortunately, too many Christians get a sensation and then immediately say that God told them something. Christians of all people ought to be extremely cautious about invoking God's name to further their own status, interests, or whatever it might be in relation to themselves and to other Christians.
"Misrepresenting God
There are many instances where God is misrepresented by false religious systems, movies, radio, magazines, plays, etc. God has revealed himself in the Bible, and we should restrict our understanding and teachings about him to that which is revealed therein. We should never, for example, portray [describe] Jesus as being a homosexual or [portray] God the Father as being a female. The Lord has condemned homosexuality is [as?] a sin, and he has chosen to reveal himself and [as?] the male gender [or sex]. Of course, we know that God the Father is not biologically male. The point is that we ought to refer to God as he refers to himself.
"Saying "God bless you"
"Even the well-intended phrase 'God bless you' ought to be offered with care. That phrase should not be a casual declaration of well-meaning upon people. Though it is good to pray for others and to want them to be blessed, we should be careful when invoking God. For example, what if you are speaking with an unbeliever [a non-Christian] who is living in a sinful situation. Perhaps you've had a discussion with him or her and have gently urged repentance. But, the person has no desire to turn from sin. Should you then say to them 'God bless you' when you part? I think that, at this point, we should be careful and not urge God's blessing upon those who are living in rebellion against him. Instead, we should ask that God reveal himself to them so they might come to repentance.
"Then again, if you're talking to a Christian and in your parting, you say 'God bless you,' is that okay? I would say that it is if it was intended as a sincere request for God to bless the person. But, if it is a casual, automatic phrase offered just because it's something you do, then I would be concerned that that would be using God's name in vain."
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The above article ends with this:
"We should only use God's name, title, etc. in a manner that shows reverence, respect, and honor. We should never be casual about it, never use it in swearing, never use it in humor[,] or God is[,] or his name is[,] what is laughed at."
(Source: https://carm.org/about-god/what-does-it-mean-to-take-the-lords-name-in-vain/)
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And here is some interesting information from Dr. Thomas Constable, a Bible commentator:
"… The Jews took this command [to not take the Lord's name in vain] seriously. They did not even speak God's name 'Yahweh' to avoid abusing it. Instead they substituted the phrase 'the Name' for 'Yahweh' in conversation. They also spoke of 'heaven,' the place where God resides [lives], rather than 'God.' This, by the way, explains why [the apostle] Matthew in writing his Gospel to Jews usually spoke of the 'kingdom of heaven' whereas the other Gospel writers, who wrote primarily for Gentiles [non-Jewish people], normally used the term 'kingdom of God.' According to Jewish tradition when a Jewish scribe [a person who copied manuscripts] wrote the name of God he would first bathe [take a bath], change his clothes, and use a new quill [a pen made from a bird's feather] with which to continue writing …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/deuteronomy/5-11.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")
* * * * *
*The moral law is explained in the following article: "What is the difference between the ceremonial law, the moral law, and the judicial law in the Old Testament?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/ceremonial-law.html.
NOVEMBER 22-23
Proverbs 22:8: "He [or she] that soweth [sows, plants, spreads] iniquity [injustice, unrighteousness, immoral or extremely unfair behavior] [referring to the person who plans and carries out wicked acts that are harmful to society and God] shall reap [harvest, obtain] vanity [trouble] [for himself (or herself)]: and the rod of his [or her] anger [i.e., whatever he (or she) does or uses to oppress (mistreat) others] shall fail."
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According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church:
"This is yet another proverb that deals with a recurring [repeating] theme [subject] in the book [of Proverbs]: you reap what you sow. … In this proverb the emphasis is on the fact that the one [or 'the person'] who sows evil shall not do so forever."
Pastor Delany's commentary explains why the above statement is true. Here are some excerpts:
"b. The concept [idea, thought] of 'sowing' iniquity speaks of a person who scatters injustice and unrighteousness wherever he goes… in whatever he does… and whatever he says."
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"2. The one who sows iniquity will reap TROUBLE at some point.
"a. He will reap calamity; sorrow; mischief.
"b. His works [or 'the things that he does'] will produce trouble for him--sooner or later.
"c. Those [people] who broadcast the seeds of injustice and oppression can expect to reap trouble as a direct result of their sowing.
"d. Job 4:8 -- as Eliphaz rightly [correctly] told [his friend] Job, those who sow iniquity will reap the SAME [thing; i.e., iniquity].
"e. They will eventually reap a harvest of their greed, injustice, oppression, arrogance [conceit, sense of superiority], and selfishness.
"f. They may seem to prosper [or be successful] for a time, but not forever. Eventually it [the trouble] will catch up to them.
"g. Evil actions are like seeds. Once sown, they produce a harvest--[whether we] like it or not. There are always consequences to our actions.
"h. This passage [Proverbs 22:8] teaches that the ONE WHO SOWS shall reap trouble.
"i. Others [or 'other people'] may also experience trouble from his [this person's] actions. But our proverb tells us that the man who SOWS will especially feel it--sooner or later. He himself will reap what he has sown."
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"b. [']The rod of his anger['] seems to refer to a weapon (figuratively [symbolically] speaking) used by a ruler or person of power to angrily oppress his victims… or his subjects… or employees…
"c. The rod of his anger (rage; fury; arrogance; etc) could either be:
"• A symbol of his position over people
"• A symbol of his wrath [anger] inflicted against them
"d. Either way, the man in question here IS in a position to inflict wrath against others and evidently he does just that.
"e. Perhaps [King] Solomon is implying that he [the man in question] uses his position of authority as a weapon to inflict [impose] wrath and rage against others.
"f. This seems to speak of a ruler who rules by unbridled passion [a powerful feeling that is not controlled or limited] rather than by prudence [cautiousness] and wisdom.
"3. But the point of this proverb is that he [the person referred to in paragraph f] will not be able to do so forever.
"a. The rod of his anger shall FAIL.
"b. Fail: To accomplish; cease [stop]; consume; determine; end; fail; finish; to be completed; to be spent; to wear out.
"c. Perhaps his position will come to an end.
"d. Perhaps his power will come to an end… will wear out.
"e. Perhaps his life will come to an end in judgment.
"f. One way or another, his ability to wield [hold and use] that rod of anger shall fail… shall come to an end."
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"4. The cruel wrath of oppressive, powerful men will FAIL sooner or later.
"a. Cruel kings like the Pharaoh [a ruler in ancient Egypt] in the days of the Exodus will discover that their power over others comes to an end sooner or later.
"b. You can't go on oppressing men forever. Eventually there will be a rebellion or a revolution.
"c. There might be an assassination… or a military coup [overthrow of the government].
"d. Perhaps God Himself will intervene [get involved] and smite the oppressors [or hit them hard], bringing to an end the 'rod of their anger.'"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-22-index/proverbs-22_8/.
NOVEMBER 21
Earlier in the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon "discussed" various things that people try to find fulfillment in, and he rejected each one of them as "vanity" (meaningless). He finally came to the conclusion that without God, there is no truth or meaning to life. In addition, as stated by Matthew Henry, "serious godliness is the only way to true happiness."
Solomon writes:
Ecclesiastes 12:13: "Let us hear the conclusion [end] of the whole matter [i.e., the search for true happiness and meaning to life]: Fear God [see note below*], and keep [obey] his commandments: for this is the whole duty [obligation, responsibility] of man [mankind, human beings, all people]."
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*According to Matthew Henry, the phrase Fear God in the above verse includes having "a reverence of [respect for] his [God's] majesty [greatness, dignity, excellence], a deference [humble submission] to his authority, and a dread of his wrath [anger]."
Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/ecclesiastes/12.html, "Verses 13-14"
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Here are two GotQuestions.org articles that relate to today's verse:
-- "What does it mean to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/fear-God-and-keep-His-commandments.html)
-- "What does the Bible say about how to find purpose in life?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/purpose-of-life.html)
NOVEMBER 19-20
Proverbs 19:1: "Better is the poor [person] that walketh [walks, acts, behaves] in his [or her] integrity [referring to someone who is honest and has a good moral compass (i.e., the ability to judge right and wrong and act accordingly) and consequently lives a good, wholesome, moral lifestyle], than he [or she] that is perverse [corrupt] in his [or her] lips [which means that when the person speaks, he (or she) distorts (twists, bends) the truth, or that what he (or she) says shows a lack of good sense, judgment, or discretion], and is a fool."
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According to Pastor Jim Delany, of Salem Bible Church, a poor person of integrity is better than a rich person without integrity. His commentary tells why. Here's an excerpt:
"6a. … Some wealthy [rich] men are fine, moral citizens… and today some are even fine, godly Christians.
"b. However, [King] Solomon saw MANY wealthy men in his day.
"c. He noticed that wealth was not always accompanied by good manners… by a good, wholesome, moral lifestyle.
"d. Solomon noted that many wealthy men are perverse fools.
"e. Solomon saw a side of the wealthy [people] that man[y] OTHER people never saw.
"f. The poor people only saw their earthly glory and splendor.
"• Poor men were often jealous of the rich [people]… jealous of their lifestyle…
"• The poor [people] often LONGED to trade places with the rich.
"• Perhaps some of US have those same feelings. It is part of our nature.
"g. As a king, having to deal with Kings, nobility [a privileged class of people], and wealthy landowners on a daily basis, Solomon also knew all about the ugly side of wealth.
"h. Thus, Solomon writes this proverb to let the poor men in his kingdom know that things aren't always as they seem.
"i. Poor men had one snapshot of the wealthy [people]… and it seemed SO appealing and attractive.
"j. Solomon wanted to broaden their perspective [understanding] of wealth and the wealthy… so he gives them another view…
"k. He gives them [the poor people] another view of the wealthy nobles AND another view of their own humble circumstances.
"• Solomon wants his readers to know that the wealthy [people] might SEEM to be in an enviable position… looks are deceiving [which means they are very different from the truth]!
"• Solomon also wants his readers to know that the poor [people] aren't in such a bad position after all…
"• Not once they broaden their perspective [or increase their understanding] and look at the WHOLE LIFE of the man."
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Then, in the commentary, Pastor Delany shows the lives of the rich people and poor people from an earthly and heavenly perspective and comes to the following conclusions:
"• We look at the glorious [wonderful] side of wealth and envy it.
"• We ought to look at the ugly side too--hatred, bitterness, envy, trouble, pressure, etc.
"• When we widen our angle to see the whole picture--we're not so bad off after all!
"• We may not have the big fancy house… the gold and rubies… or the jet set lifestyle…
"• But Solomon wants us to know that our little [or 'our few possessions'] can actually be BETTER than their much [or 'their many possessions']…
"• A man of integrity has a clean conscience. He can sleep at night… and have peace of mind… and experience rest.
"• His friends like him because of his character--not for his money. That is priceless.
"• The true measure of a man is his character--not his outward circumstances."
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-19-index/proverbs-19_1/.
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Matthew Henry's commentary says:
"… Let [a poor man] be honest and walk in integrity, let him keep a good conscience and make it appear that he does so, let him always speak and act with sincerity [honesty] when he is under the greatest temptations to dissemble [hide his true feelings] and break his word, and then let him value himself upon that, for all wise and good men will value him. He is better, has a better character, is in a better condition, is better beloved, and lives to better purpose, than many a one [or 'many a person'] that looks great and makes a figure [or 'a large sum of money'?]. … What will be the shame of a rich man, notwithstanding all his pomp [show of magnificence]. If he have a shallow head [or is 'shallow-minded,' meaning he lacks depth of knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character] and [has] an evil tongue, if he is perverse [corrupt, contrary to what is right and good] in his lips and is a fool, if he is a wicked man and gets what he has by fraud [deceit] and oppression, he is a fool, and an honest poor man is to be preferred far before him."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/19.html, "Verse 1")
NOVEMBER 17-18
King Manasseh's Idolatry and Use of Witchcraft Angered God
2 Chronicles 33:1-2: "Manasseh [son of Hezekiah, a good king] was twelve years old when he began to reign [rule] [as king of Judah], and he reigned fifty and five [55] years in Jerusalem: But [he] did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD [God--because he committed idolatry (worshiped idols)], like unto the abominations [disgusting practices] of the heathen [nations] [i.e., non-Jewish people, especially the Canaanites], whom the LORD had cast [thrown] out [of the land] before the children of Israel [Jewish people]."
2 Chronicles 33:3: "[Manasseh did evil in the sight of the LORD] For [because] he built again [rebuilt] the high places [i.e., places of worship on high ground, or altars built in valleys and other areas of low land] which [King] Hezekiah his father had broken down, and he reared up [built] altars for Baalim [the sun-god], and made groves [clusters (groups) of trees or poles surrounding the altars where idols were placed], and worshipped all the host of heaven [i.e., the sun, moon, stars, and planets], and served them [rather than serving Almighty God].
2 Chronicles 33:4-5: "Also he [Manasseh] built altars in the house of the LORD [i.e., the temple in Jerusalem], whereof [of which] the LORD [God] had said, In Jerusalem shall my name be for ever. And he [Manasseh] built altars for [worshiping] all [of] the host of heaven in the two courts [inner and outer] of the house of the LORD [or 'the temple']."
2 Chronicles 33:6: "And he [Manasseh] caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom [meaning he offered his children to Moloch as human sacrifices (see note below*) or dedicated them to the idol gods]: also he observed times [predicted the future based on the position of the stars, as is done in astrology--see note below**], and used enchantments [or 'cast spells'], and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit [a demon 'servant'], and with wizards [sorcerers, people who practiced witchcraft]: he wrought [did] much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger [or 'to make him angry']."
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In his commentary, Matthew Henry summarized the above verses as follows:
"… This foolish young prince [Manasseh], in contradiction [or 'opposite'] to the good example and good education his father gave him, abandoned himself to all impiety [meaning he had a complete lack of respect for God], transcribed [recorded?] the abominations of the heathen (v. 2 [2 Chronicles 33:2]), ruined the established religion, unravelled [undid] his father's glorious reformation (v. 3 [2 Chronicles 33:3]), profaned [disrespected] the house of God with his idolatry (v. 4, 5 [2 Chronicles 33:4,5]), dedicated his children to Moloch, and made the devil's lying oracles [or 'Satan's servants'] his guides and his counsellors [counselors, advisers], v. 6 [2 Chronicles 33:6]. …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/2-chronicles/33.html, "Verses 1-10")
* * * * *
Charles Spurgeon's comments on the same verses show just how bad Manasseh really was:
2 Chronicles 33:2: "It often happens that, when the sons of good men become bad, they are among the worst of men. They who pervert [distort, corrupt] a good example generally run headlong [or move quickly] to destruction."
2 Chronicles 33:3: "One form of idolatry was not enough for him [Manasseh]; he must have all forms of it [idolatry], even rearing altars to Baal, and making the stars also to be his gods."
2 Chronicles 33:4: "Manasseh was worse than an ordinary idolater, for he polluted [contaminated] the very place which was dedicated to the service of the only living and true God."
2 Chronicles 33:5-6: "Perhaps he [Manasseh] gave some of them [his children] actually to be burned in honour [honor] of his false gods; or if not [for that reason,] some of his children were made to pass through the fire and were thus dedicated to the idol deities [false gods]."
2 Chronicles 33:6: "You cannot imagine, I think, a worse character than this Manasseh was. He seems to have raked [gathered, collected, scraped up] the foulest [most disgusting] kennels [storage places] of superstition to find all manner of abominations. Like false-hearted [deceitful] [King] Saul, he had dealings with a familiar spirit, he had entered into a covenant [or 'an agreement'] with Satan himself, and made a league [or 'formed an association'] with hell …"
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And if you're wondering how a godly father like Hezekiah could have such a wicked son, Spurgeon wrote that, unfortunately:
"… grace does not run in the blood; and the best of parents may have the worst of children."
(Source: https://www.truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/spe/2-chronicles-33.php, "Spurgeon's Verse Expositions of the Bible," "Verses 1-19")
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*GotQuestions.org has a good article about idol worship and human sacrifices. It's entitled "Who was Moloch?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/who-Molech.html.
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**The subject of astrology is covered in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "What does the Bible say about astrology and the zodiac?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/astrology-Bible.html.
NOVEMBER 15-16
Proverbs 15:25: "The LORD [God] will destroy the house [household (family) and/or house] of the proud [person]: but he will establish the border [or 'protect the property'] of the widow [and of others who are unable to defend, or protect, themselves]."
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Regarding the above verse, Albert Barnes said:
"The widow - Here, … the widow, as the most extreme type of desolation [unhappiness and hopelessness], stands as the representative of a class [of people who are] safer in their poverty under the protection of the Lord, than [under the protection of] the proud [people who are] in the haughtiness [arrogance, attitude of superiority] of their strength."
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-15.html, Verse 25")
* * * * *
Matthew Henry added:
"Note, 1. Those [people] that are elevated [raised to a higher position, given very important jobs] God delights to abase [or bring down, either in their jobs or their self-esteem], and commonly does it in the course of his providence [or according to his will]: The proud, [people] that magnify [glorify] themselves, bid defiance [offer resistance] to the God above them and trample on [or treat with cruelty and contempt] all [people] about [around] them, are such as God resists and will destroy, not them only, but their houses, which they are proud of and are confident of the continuance and perpetuity of [meaning they believe those things will last forever]. Pride is the ruin of multitudes [i.e., large numbers of people]. 2. Those [people] that are dejected [sad and depressed] God delights [is pleased] to support, and often does it remarkably [or in a remarkable manner]: He will establish the border of the poor widow, which proud injurious [abusive] men break in upon, and which the poor widow is not herself able to defend and make good. It is the honour [honor] of God to protect the weak [people] and appear for those that are oppressed [burdened by someone's abuse of power and authority, or subject to cruel or unjust treatment by others]."
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/15.html, "Verse 25")
* * * * *
There is no commentary for this verse on the Salem Bible Church website.
NOVEMBER 14
We Need the Holy Spirit's Help to Understand the Bible
1 Corinthians 2:14: "But the natural man [or woman or child--someone who is not born again] receiveth not [does not receive] the things of the [Holy] Spirit of God [meaning he (or she) has no interest in spiritual matters]: for they are foolishness unto him [or her--because he (or she) thinks they're stupid]: neither can he [or she, referring to the 'natural man,' or unsaved person] know [comprehend, understand] them ['the things of the Spirit of God'], because they are spiritually discerned [which means they are only revealed (made known) by the Holy Spirit, who, according to Jesus in John 14:16,17, lives in the hearts of born-again Christians]."
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According to the above verse, unsaved people don't understand God's word (as recorded in the Bible) because the Holy Spirit does not live in their hearts. That explains why most unsaved people do not like to go to church and/or read the Bible.
NOVEMBER 13
One Reason People Don't Get Saved
In a letter to the church at Corinth, the apostle Paul explained why some people don't get saved:
2 Corinthians 4:3: "But if our gospel [i.e., the good news that Jesus died to pay for our sins so we could have eternal life] be hid [hidden], it is hid to them that are lost [unsaved, not born again]:"
2 Corinthians 4:4: "In whom [referring to 'them that are lost'] the god of this world [i.e., Satan, the devil] hath blinded the minds [or 'has blocked the understanding'] of them which believe not [referring to 'those who don't believe'] [the gospel], lest [otherwise,] the light [excellence, beauty, splendor] of the glorious gospel of [Jesus] Christ, who is the image of God [or who 'resembles' the invisible God in all ways, having the same glory and perfection, moral attributes, etc.], should shine unto them [and make them want to be saved]."
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Since people can only be saved (from hell) if they hear, understand, and believe the gospel (Romans 10:14), Satan tries very hard to prevent that from happening.
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Note: If you're interested in learning about God's simple plan of salvation, please visit the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page on my website. Here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
NOVEMBER 12
Which God Will You Serve?
Speaking to the nation of Israel, Joshua said:
Joshua 24:14: "Now therefore fear the LORD [God; in other words, because of his supreme power and authority, you should love, honor, and respect Almighty God], and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods [images, idols, false gods (i.e., statues, pictures, etc.)--see note below*] which your fathers [forefathers, ancestors] served [worshiped] on the other side of the flood [in this case, referring to the Euphrates River], and in Egypt [when they were sojourners (temporary residents) there]; and serve ye [you] the LORD."
Joshua 24:15: "And if it seem evil [hard, unreasonable, disagreeable] unto you to serve the LORD [the living God], choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether [it be] the [false] gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood [the Euphrates River], or the [false] gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye [currently] dwell [live]: but as for me and my house [household, family] [as far as I can influence them], we will serve the LORD."
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Joshua's challenge in verse 15 (i.e., 'choose you this day whom ye will serve') applies not only to Israel but also to everyone in the world today.
* * * * *
*There is only one true God. All other so-called "gods" (i.e., people and things that are worshiped, either intentionally or unintentionally) are idols.
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Here are some articles about idolatry:
-- "What is the definition of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-definition.html)
-- "What are some modern forms of idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html)
-- "Is religious iconography considered idolatry?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/religious-iconography.html)
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article related to today's verses. It's entitled "What does 'as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord' mean in Joshua 24:15?" If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/as-for-me-and-my-house.html.
NOVEMBER 11
Advice for Christian "Soldiers"
2 Timothy 2:3: "Thou [you] therefore [should] endure hardness [hardship, trouble, afflictions], as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."
2 Timothy 2:4: "No man [or 'no person'] that warreth [or 'who goes to war'] entangleth himself [or herself] [or 'becomes entangled, involved, ensnared'] with the affairs [daily events] of this life; [a minister and/or Christian should endure hardness as described in the note below*] [so] that he [or she] may please him [referring to Jesus] who hath [has] chosen him [or her--the Christian] to be a soldier [in the Lord's army]."
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Although the apostle Paul's advice (above) is mainly for ministers of the gospel (like Timothy, to whom his letter was written), it also applies to all Christians.
* * * * *
*In his commentary on 2 Timothy 2:4, Albert Barnes says:
"… Neither the minister nor the soldier is to be encumbered [burdened] with the affairs [private matters] of this life, and the one [person--the minister] should not be more [encumbered] than the other [person--the soldier]. This is always a condition in becoming a soldier. He gives up his own business during the time for which he is enlisted, and devotes himself to the service of his country. The farmer leaves his plow, and the mechanic [leaves] his shop, and the merchant [or seller] [leaves] his store, and the student [leaves] his books, and the lawyer [leaves] his brief [a type of legal document]; and neither of them expect to pursue [do] these things while engaged [involved] in the service of their country …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-timothy-2.html, "Verse 4")
* * * * *
In light of the above quote from Albert Barnes, you may be wondering if it's okay for a pastor to have an outside job to help support his family and pay the bills. That question is answered in the article entitled "Should pastors be paid a salary?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/pastors-paid-salary.html.
* * * * *
TODAY IS VETERANS DAY
If you're a veteran, thank you so much for
defending our country in times of peace and/or war.
We greatly appreciate your service and the sacrifices
that you and your family members have been
willing to make in order to keep us free.
Note: Veterans Day and Memorial Day are not the same, as is explained in the article entitled "5 Facts to Know About Veterans Day." If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Features/story/Article/1675470/5-facts-to-know-about-veterans-day/.
NOVEMBER 8-10
The Lord's Prayer (a "Model" Prayer) (see Note 1 below)
During his Sermon on the Mount (see Note 2 below), while teaching his listeners the proper way to pray, Jesus said:
Matthew 6:9: "After this manner therefore pray ye [you] [meaning they should follow this example, or pray like this]: Our Father which art [are] in heaven [referring to Almighty God, whose throne is in heaven], Hallowed [honored as holy, treated with respect and awe (wonder, amazement, admiration)] be thy [your] name [i.e., YHWH, or Jehovah]."
Matthew 6:10: "[Let] Thy kingdom [God's kingdom, which is also called the kingdom of God, or kingdom of heaven--see Note 3 below] come. [Let] Thy will [what you (God) want; i.e., that everyone obey your word, as set forth in the Bible] be done in earth [by humans], as it is [done] in heaven [by the angels]."
Matthew 6:11: "[Father (God),] Give us this day [today] our daily bread [meaning 'food'--everything necessary to sustain (support) life]."
Matthew 6:12: "And forgive us our debts [sins], as we forgive our debtors [referring to people who have sinned against us--those who have said and/or done things to cause us harm]."
Matthew 6:13: "And lead us not into temptation [do not allow us to be tempted to sin and/or to experience overwhelming (very intense and hard to deal with) trials and afflictions], but deliver us from evil [including the evil one (Satan, the devil), evil people, and evil things (sin); i.e., protect us from Satan and sin and prevent us from being corrupted or destroyed by Satan's attacks]: For thine [yours, or belonging to you (God)] is the kingdom [meaning God has control over everything and everyone in his kingdom (i.e., the universe)], and the power [meaning God has the power to do everything that we ask], and the glory [meaning God deserves honor and praise], for ever. Amen."
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The above instructions were for Jesus' disciples and all born-again Christians, who, at salvation, have become 'children of God,' according to John 1:12:
* * * * *
NOTE 1:
"What is the Lord's prayer and should we pray it?" is answered in the GotQuestions.org article by the same name. To read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/Lords-prayer.html.
* * * * *
NOTE 2:
"What is the Sermon on the Mount?" gives the reason behind that name and contains a summary of the various topics (subjects) that Jesus covered during that sermon. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/sermon-on-the-mount.html.
* * * * *
NOTE 3:
GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What is the difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/kingdom-heaven-God.html.
* * * * *
Here are some additional GotQuestions.org articles about the Lord's prayer:
--"Why should our prayers be addressed to 'our Father which art in heaven' (Matthew 6:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/our-Father-which-art-in-heaven.html)
-- "What does hallowed be thy name in the Lord's Prayer mean?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/hallowed-be-thy-name.html)
-- "What does it mean to pray, 'Thy kingdom come'?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/thy-kingdom-come.html)
-- "What does it mean to pray, 'Thy will be done'?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/thy-will-be-done.html)
-- "What does it mean to pray for our daily bread?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/daily-bread.html)
-- "Why should we ask God to forgive us our debts (Matthew 6:12)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/forgive-us-our-debts.html)
-- "Why did Jesus instruct us to pray 'lead us not into temptation'?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/lead-us-not-into-temptation.html)
-- "Why do we need to ask God to deliver us from evil?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/deliver-us-from-evil.html)
NOVEMBER 7
Christians: Do Things for God on Earth, and You'll Receive Rewards in Heaven
While preaching his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:
Matthew 6:19: "Lay not up [don't hoard, store up, accumulate] for yourselves treasures [riches] upon earth, where moth [bites, as on fine clothing,] and rust [as on metal and some types of food, including corn and grain] doth [do] corrupt [things, or cause them to decay, spoil, rot, or be destroyed], and where thieves break through [the wall or door of a house] and steal [valuable items, like money and jewelry]:"
Matthew 6:20: "But lay up for yourselves treasures [in this case, rewards] in heaven [by serving God with your time, talents, money, and influence--see note below*], where [referring to heaven] neither moth nor rust doth [does] corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:"
Matthew 6:21: "For where your treasure [the thing that you value most] is, there will your heart [and, consequently, your love and desire] be also."
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*GotQuestions.org has an article entitled "How can we store up treasures in heaven?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/treasures-in-heaven.html.
NOVEMBER 5-6
Ezekiel 18:20: "The soul [of a person] that sinneth [sins], it shall die. The son [or daughter] shall not bear the iniquity [shall not be punished for the sins] of the father [or mother], neither shall the father [or mother] bear the iniquity [be punished for the sins] of the son [or daughter]: the righteousness [see note below*] of the righteous [person, or 'the things that a righteous person (one who obeys God) does'] shall be [placed] upon him [or her--the righteous person], and the wickedness of the wicked [person, or 'the things that a wicked person does'] shall be [placed] upon him [or her--the wicked person]."
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In other words, in God's sight, we are all responsible for our own sins. No other human being can be punished for them.
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Fortunately, Jesus Christ (the sinless Son of God, or God the Son, in human form) willingly died on the cross to pay for the sins of everyone in the world. How he did this is explained in the following article: "What does it mean that Jesus took our place?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-took-our-place.html.
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Here's an interesting article about sin: "How is eternity in hell a fair punishment for sin?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/eternal-hell-fair.html.
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If you want to have Jesus' righteousness applied to your account so you don't end up in hell, you must be born again, or saved, the Bible way. Most of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website will tell you what to do. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
* * * * *
*Righteousness is discussed in the following articles:
-- "What is righteousness?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/righteousness.html)
-- "Why does Christ's righteousness need to be imputed to us?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/imputed-righteousness.html)
NOVEMBER 3-4
The Lord's Supper: Remembering Jesus' Death
Christians routinely (regularly, frequently) celebrate the Lord's supper in church. Regarding that subject, in a letter to the Corinthian church, the apostle Paul wrote:
1 Corinthians 11:23,24: "For I [Paul] have received of [or directly from] the Lord [Jesus Christ] that [information] which also I delivered [communicated] unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed [by Judas Iscariot in the garden of Gethsemane] took bread [in his hands]: And when he [Jesus] had given thanks [to God], he brake [broke] it [the bread], and said [to his disciples], Take [it], [and] eat: this [bread] is [a symbol of] my body, which is [to be] broken for you [on the cross--one time, as a sacrifice--to pay for your sins, per Hebrews 10:10 and 1 Peter 3:18]: this do [or 'do this,' meaning eat the bread] in remembrance of me [Jesus, referring to his impending (soon-to-happen) suffering and death]."
1 Corinthians 11:25,26: "After the same [or 'in a similar'] manner also he [Jesus] took the cup [of wine], when he had supped [or 'after he had eaten the Passover meal'], saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood [which means that the cup of wine represented a new covenant, agreement, or dispensation, confirmed or sealed by his (Jesus') blood']: this do ye [or 'do this,' meaning take the cup and drink from it, like Jesus did], as oft [often] as ye [you] drink it ['the wine'], in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink [from] this cup [of wine (or grape juice, as is used in some Christian churches today during the Lord's supper)], ye do shew [show, proclaim, remember] the Lord's death till he [Jesus] come [or 'until he (Jesus) returns to judge the world']."
1 Corinthians 11:27: "Wherefore whosoever [whoever] shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily [i.e., in a thoughtless, careless, improper manner or for the wrong reason, such as lacking proper respect or seriousness for the Lord's supper, treating it like a common meal rather than the observation of an ordinance (established rite or ceremony), etc.], shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord [or of putting Jesus to death; in other words, it implies that the person who eats and drinks unworthily will share the guilt of Jesus' death with those who stood in the crowd in front of the Roman governor Pilate, in Jerusalem, and cried out (regarding Jesus), 'Crucify him, crucify him']."
1 Corinthians 11:28,29: "But let a man [or woman or child, referring to every born-again Christian] examine himself [or herself, meaning his (or her) thoughts, words, and actions--to make sure that he (or she) is partaking of (or participating in) the Lord's supper for the right reasons and that all known sins have been confessed to, and forgiven by, God], and so [then] let him [or her] eat of that bread, and drink of that cup [both of which are referred to above]. For he [or she--the Christian] that eateth [eats] [the bread] and drinketh [drinks] [from the cup] unworthily [improperly, irreverently] [during the Lord's supper], eateth and drinketh damnation [condemnation, judgment, punishment] to himself [or herself], not discerning the Lord's body [i.e., by not understanding the true meaning of the Lord's supper and/or by treating it as a common meal rather than something that is very special to God]."
1 Corinthians 11:30: "For this cause [or 'reason,' referring to eating and drinking unworthily during the Lord's supper] many are weak and sickly [sick] among you [Christians], and many sleep [have died].
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For in-depth information about the Lord's supper, read one or both of the following articles:
-- "What is the importance of the Lord's supper / Christian Communion?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/communion-Christian.html.)
-- "What did Jesus mean when He said, 'This is my body, broken for you'?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/this-is-my-body-broken-for-you.html)
NOVEMBER 2
1 Thessalonians 5:17: "Pray [to Almighty God] without ceasing [or 'without stopping']."
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Christians should pray often, or frequently.
In other words, God can read your thoughts, so try to develop a habit of talking silently to him throughout each day. For example, comment on interesting things that you see and hear, tell him your problems and ask for his help, seek his advice and guidance, ask for forgiveness whenever you sin, etc.
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has good explanations of today's verse in the following articles:
-- "What does it mean to pray without ceasing?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/pray-without-ceasing.html)
-- "Silent prayer - is it biblical?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/silent-prayer.html)
NOVEMBER 1
The Bible is the Word of God
In these verses, the apostle Peter tells us why we should read and trust the Bible:
2 Peter 1:20: "Knowing this first [as a very important truth], that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation [that's because the Bible contains the 'mind of God,' so its words are God's actual words, not the writers' interpretation (explanation) of what God said]."
2 Peter 1:21: "For the prophecy [everything that the prophets taught, including prediction of future events] came not [didn't come] in old time [in the Old Testament] by the will [suggestion] of man [mankind, human beings]: but holy men of God [prophets, etc.] spake [spoke and wrote] as they were moved [inspired, influenced, guided] by the Holy Ghost [Holy Spirit]."