Skillet has a new song called “Scream.” It’s pretty good, which is not surprising because they are a great band. And they are CHRISTIANS (obviously, they are a Christian rock band.)
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ODB reading today: Genesis 50:22-26
This passage is the very end of Genesis. In particular 50:25. “Then Joseph made the sons of Israel swear, saying, “God will surely take care of you, and you shall carry my bones up from here.” My footnote in my old Ryrie says: “Joseph believed that eventually his descendants would move back to Canaan and he wanted them to take his body with them, which they did.”
Basically, as the reading for today says, even if people disown us for our faith, we should not despair. We must trustingly act on God’s promises.
A couple other verses to look at: Hebrews 11:22 and Romans 8:28
Interestingly there was a random slip of paper in 1 John chapter 2. And my eyes went right to the first verses on the page, 1 John 2:4-6. And I think I know why I stuck this piece of paper in there at some point.
4 “The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5 “but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him.” [I love this idea of truly perfected love]
6 “the one who says he absides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.”
Basically, calling out hypocrites and posers. Just like I love to do! John was all over this in the year 90 Anno Domini
While flipping to the Romans verse I mentioned, my eyes fell on 8:18 – “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” No kidding! Great reminder that these hardships are temporary as long as we believe in Him!
Oh look I underlined Romans 8:28 as a kid. Smart me. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Notably not the WORLD’s purpose, corrupted by Mr. Satan.
It took me five-ever to find Hebrews lol. My Bible book order knowledge is rusty, sorry God.
Hebrews 11:22
“By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the exodus of the sons of Israel, and gave orders concerning his bones.” Direct call back to that passage in Genesis, a nice little way to close the circle here.
I pray, Lord Jesus, help me take all these words to heart. I know what You are telling me at least in a way that makes sense, but I feel there is something deeper to this particular devotion today as it is Your Day today. Thank you for giving me some joy and restfulness in my insomnia through Your guidance through the Word that, while corrupted in many ways, still serves Your purposes. Amen.
