"So they all praised the Lord”. Did you hear the story about the man who shouted 'Praise the Lord' in a church where everyone always sat quietly? A steward tapped his arm and whispered, 'We don't do that here, Sir'! But they did it in David's day – every one of them. Of course, they ... Read more
"called in question for today's uproar”. The town clerk of Ephesus was most anxious that this assembly that got out of hand should disperse without further violence. The mob chanted vociferously, 'Great is Diana of the Ephesians' without really knowing why. We can see here a picture of a greater uproar which has more far-reaching ... Read more
"there shall be no more curse”. A great curse fell upon the human race when the serpent caused Adam to sin. Now the best of us are hindered from doing all that we want to do, while the worst are bound by sin and rebellion and live in a squalor of ungodliness. There is toil ... Read more
"sitting … dressed and in his right mind”. The touch of Jesus affects the whole of life. The demons had stripped this man of all respect, driven him mad and left him running wild. Any control or restraint was broken and he was alone in the world. The god of this world is still doing ... Read more
"the Lord, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me”. David found the blessing it is to meet someone like Abigail. Incensed at Nabal's refusal to offer hospitality after his men had protected his sheep shearers, he was about to come against him in battle when he was met by Abigail. ... Read more
"What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us”. Jesus said, 'One man sows and another reaps'. Today we may be reaping the 'sowing' of our forefathers. This applies to prayer on our behalf as well as to projects started in faith by those who went before us. Many reading these lines will know ... Read more
"Serve the Lord with gladness”. What a problem 'miserable Christians' are: there must be some doubt whether they really are Christians if they are miserable. Some people like this have gained Christians a reputation for being miserable. But the true servants of the Lord are glad to be serving Him. Grateful for the privilege, happy ... Read more
"a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand”. He rated appearance more important than durability. His house made a great impression while it was standing; but a fool of him when it collapsed. Your life may look good, but how about the foundation? Skimp on the foundation to spend on the superstructure and ... Read more
"As it turned out”. What seemed like a chance event was arranged by God Himself. Ruth's servant heart was what God needed to fulfil His divine plan. As well as sharing the sadness of widow-hood, she was willing to share in the burden that came with it. Yet little did she know what God had ... Read more
"their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors”. Was it that they did not get on with their supervisors or did they baulk at putting their shoulders to anything, these nobles of Tekoa? They were rebuilding a section of wall near the Fish Gate in the days of Nehemiah. They ... Read more