Author: Melissa Lynne

Day 190 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 1 Chronicles 7:1–8:40; Acts 27:1-20; Psalm 7:1-17; Proverbs 18:22

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Fallen Into the Ditch Which He Made
If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready. He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors. Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood. He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made. His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.
Psalm 7:12-16

Here are the same verses fromt he Amplified translation.

If a man does not repent, God will sharpen His sword; He has strung and bent His [mighty] bow and made it ready. He has also prepared [other] deadly weapons for Himself; He makes His arrows fiery shafts [aimed at the unrepentant]. Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood. Behold, the [wicked and irreverent] man is pregnant in sin, And he conceives mischief and gives birth to lies. He has dug a pit and hollowed it out, and has fallen into the [very] pit which he made [as a trap], His mischief will return on his own head, And his violence will come down on the top of his. Head [like loose dirt.]
Psalm 7:12-16 AMP

David’s description of how deception comes into the world, and the consequences of bringing it forth is so interesting. He uses the language of the process of childbirth. 

Conception is a very intimate act—as is pregnancy and birth. In this passage, David reveals how wickedness privately and intimately schemes evil, which incubates trouble and eventually gives birth to deceit—scary stuff to fool with.

They dig a deep pit to trap others, then fall into it themselves. The trouble they make for others backfires on them. The violence they plan falls on their own heads. If we’re going to give birth to lies, then we must realize that the result will be our own entrapment. 

We should remember these verses the next time we are tempted to fabricate something in thought, word, or deed. Only the truth has the power to set us free.

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
John 8:32

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Mighty Men of Valour
And their brethren among all the families of Issachar were valiant men of might, reckoned in all by their genealogies fourscore and seven thousand.
1 Chronicles 7:5

All these the sons of Jediael, by the heads of their fathers, mighty men of valour, were seventeen thousand and two hundred soldiers, fit to go out for war and battle.
1 Chronicles 7:11

All these were the children of Asher, heads of their father’s house, choice and mighty men of valour, chief of the princes. And the number throughout the genealogy of them that were apt to the war and to battle was twenty and six thousand men.
1 Chronicles 7:40

And the sons of Ulam were mighty men of valour, archers, and had many sons, and sons’ sons, an hundred and fifty. All these are of the sons of Benjamin.
1 Chronicles 8:40

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Liberty to Go Unto His Friends to Refresh Himself
And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’ band. And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself. And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭27‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭

A Place Which is Called the Fair Havens
And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia. And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein. And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone; and, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭27‬:‭5‬-‭8‬ ‭

Paul Warns But is Not Believed
Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, and said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives. Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.
Acts 27:9-11

If By Any Means They Might Attain to Phenice
And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west. And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭27‬:‭12‬-‭14

All Hope that We Should Be Saved Was Then Taken Away
And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; and the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.
Acts 27:15-20

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Whoso Findeth a Wife
Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.
Proverbs 18:22

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Judge Me , O LORD, According to My Righteousness and Mine Integrity
The Lord Shall Judge the people: Judge me, O LORD, According to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me.
Psalm 7:8

Day 189 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 1 Chronicles 5:18–6:81 Acts 26:1-32 Psalm 6:1-10 Proverbs 18:20-21

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The Lord Hath Heard My Supplication
The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.
Psalm 6:9

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Satisfied With the Fruit of His Mouth
A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled..
Proverbs 18:20

A man’s stomach will be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; He will be satisfied with the consequence of his words.
Proverbs 18:20 AMP

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Because the War Was of God
The sons of Reuben, and the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, of valiant men, men able to bear buckler and sword, and to shoot with bow, and skilful in war, were four and forty thousand seven hundred and threescore, that went out to the war. And they made war with the Hagarites, with Jetur, and Nephish, and Nodab. And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that were with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put their trust in him. And they took away their cattle; of their camels fifty thousand, and of sheep two hundred and fifty thousand, and of asses two thousand, and of men an hundred thousand. For there fell down many slain, because the war was of God. And they dwelt in their steads until the captivity.
1 Chronicles 5:18-22

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Thou Art Permitted to Speak for Thyself
Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself: I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently. My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭26‬:‭1‬-‭7‬

Why Should It Be Thought a Thing Incredible?
Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from theI verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests, at midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: but shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: but shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance. For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: that Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.
Acts 26:8-23

I am Not Mad but Speak Forth the Words of Truth
And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness. For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner. King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭26‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭

Altogether Such as I Am, Except these Bonds
Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian. And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
Acts 26:28-29

This Man Doeth Nothing Worthy of Death or of Bonds
And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them: and when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds. Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Cæsar.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭26‬:‭30‬-‭32‬ ‭

Day 188 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 1 Chronicles 4:5–5:17; Acts 25:1-27; Psalm 5:1-12; Proverbs 18:19

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Jabez Called On the God of Israel
And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.
2 Chronicles 4:9-10

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Accuse this Man If There Be Any Wickedness in Him
Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Cæsarea to Jerusalem. Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul, and besought him, and desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him. But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Cæsarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither. Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭25‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭

Many Grievous Complaints Were Made Which They Could Not Prove
And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Cæsarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought. And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove. While he answered for himself, Neither against the law of the Jews, neither against the temple, nor yet against Cæsar, have I offended any thing at all. But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me? Then said Paul, I stand at Cæsar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Cæsar. Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Cæsar? unto Cæsar shalt thou go.
‭Acts‬ ‭25‬:‭6‬-‭12‬ ‭

Paul Appealed to Be Reserved Unto the Hearing of Augustus
And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Cæsarea to salute Festus. And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul’s cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix: about whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him. To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him. Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth. Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed: but had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters. But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Cæsar.
Acts‬ ‭25‬:‭13‬-‭21

Unreasonable to Send a Prisoner
Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. Tomorrow, said he, thou shalt hear him. And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus’ commandment Paul was brought forth. And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, ye see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer. But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him. Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write. For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.
Acts 25:22-27

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Let All Those That Put Their Trust in Thee Rejoice
But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.
Psalm 5:11-12

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A Brother Offended
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
Proverbs 18:19

Day 187 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 1 Chronicles 2:18–4:4; Acts 24:1-27; Psalm 4:1-8; Proverbs 18:16-18

A Pestilent Fellow, a Mover of Sedition, a Ringleader of the Sect of the Nazarenes
And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by thee we enjoy great quietness, and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence, we accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness. Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words. For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law. But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our hands, commanding his accusers to come unto thee: by examining of whom thyself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him. And the Jews also assented, saying that these things were so.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭

Pestilent – Producing or tending to produce infectious or contagious, often epidemic disease; destructive to life, deadly, poisonous; injuring or endangering society; injurious to peace, morals; troublesome, annoying, mischievious

Sedition – incitement of discontent or rebellion against a government; any action, especially in speech or writing, promothing such discontent or rebellion; rebellious disorder

Sect – a body of persons adhering to a particular religious faith, a religious denominaton; a group regarded as heretical or as deviating from a generally accepted religious tradition; a Christian denomination characterized by insistence on strict qualifications; any group, party, or faction united by a specifice doctrine or leader

A Conscience Void of Offence Toward God, and Toward Men
Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that thou hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself: because that thou mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship. And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city: neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me. But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: and have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.
Acts 24:10-16

Called in Question
Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings. Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult. Who ought to have been here before thee, and object, if they had ought against me. Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council, except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭17‬-‭21‬ ‭

Felix Commanded a Centurioun to Keep Paul
And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way, he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter. And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭

When I have a Convenient Season
And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee. He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him. But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix’ room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭

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Now These Were the Sons of David
Now these were the sons of David, which were born unto him in Hebron; the firstborn Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second Daniel, of Abigail the Carmelitess: the third, Absalom the son of Maachah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur: the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith: the fifth, Shephatiah of Abital: the sixth, Ithream by Eglah his wife. These six were born unto him in Hebron; and there he reigned seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years. And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four, of Bath-shua the daughter of Ammiel: Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet, and Nogah, and Nepheg, and Japhia, and Elishama, and Eliada, and Eliphelet, nine. These were all the sons of David, beside the sons of the concubines, and Tamar their sister.
2 Chronicles 3:1-9

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He that Is First In His Own Cause
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.
Proverbs 18:17

The first one to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and cross-examines him.
Proverbs 18:17 AMP

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Stand in Awe, and Sin Not
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
Psalm 4:4

Thou Only Makest Me Dwell in Safety
I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: For thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8

Day 186 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 1 Chronicles 1:1–2:17; Acts 23:11-35; Psalm 3:1-8; Proverbs 18:14-15

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What’s in a Name?
Abram; the same is Abraham. The sons of Abraham; Isaac, and Ishmael. These are their generations: The firstborn of Ishmael, Nebaioth; then Kedar, and Adbeel, and Mibsam, 30 Mishma, and Dumah, Massa, Hadad, and Tema, Jetur, Naphish, and Kedemah. These are the sons of Ishmael. Now the sons of Keturah, Abraham’s concubine: she bare Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah. And the sons of Jokshan; Sheba, and Dedan. And the sons of Midian; Ephah, and Epher, and Henoch, and Abida, and Eldaah. All these are the sons of Keturah. And Abraham begat Isaac. The sons of Isaac; Esau and Israel.
2 Chronicles 1:27-34

In today’s reading, we started 1 Chronicles. No one knows who wrote the books of Chronicles, but some believe the scribe and priest Ezra wrote at least some of it. First and 2 Chronicles tells much of the same history as the books of Samuel and Kings, but Chronicles looks at the history through the priests’ eyes.

We ended Kings yesterday with the conquest of Judah and the exile to Babylon, which ended the time of the Promised Land. Chronicles were written from this exile. Exile was a tool used to build empires, and it forced the mixing of people groups. Personal histories were forgotten over time. The Chronicles were written to remind the children of Israel who they were, where they came from, and who God is.

The first nine chapters are genealogy. When we read these lists of hard to pronounce names, we might wonder what the purpose is of including them. But once we understand why the names are there, it will make a difference in the posture of our heart as we read them.

When families were taken into exile, those families were split apart; community groups and relationships were destroyed; and parents, siblings, and even spouses would never see each other again as they were carried away to unknown lands. These names—these genealogies—were written so the people could remember where they came from and who they were. Each name represents a person that lived and went through great sorrow, grief, and much loss.

On September 11, 2006, at the fifth anniversary of what our country knows as 9/11, there was a reading of the names of every single person killed in the events of that tragic day. Someone read each name, paused, and then moved to the next name.

It was during that reading that the conviction of God fell on me, and I cried out to Him – repenting of my sins and confessing Jesus as my Lord and Savior. What was it about those names? For me, I listened and remembered these people. I didn’t know them, but I did know that not one of those listed deserved to die on that day the way they did. It caused me to look at my own life, and to be honest, I wanted to die that day, but I knew that I deserved to die, for my heart was full of sin and anger and bitterness. I also knew that if I did, I would split hell wide open and live eternity there. What do you do when you are at the end but there is nothing? You go back to what you know to be true. Even if you have denied truth and walked away from truth. 

So I did. I cried out to God, and He heard me “out of His holy hill,” and He reached down and His glory filled the room I was in. LITERALLY!!!! In that room that day He saved me, delivered me, and filled me with His Holy Ghost. My life has never been the same. 

What brought me to my knees was the reality of the life and death behind each name that was remembered. I have never looked at a genealogy the same. Since the Bible says our names are written in a book – we are a part of a great genealogy too. When you hear my name read someday – remember this testimony. When I hear yours, I will remember you and all you have shared with me about your own life in Jesus Christ. 

What is in a name? For some of us, everything. Please don’t skip the reading of the genealogies. 

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Bound Under a Curse
And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy. And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul. Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭11‬-‭15‬ ‭

When Paul’s Sister’s Son Heard of They Lying in Wait
And when Paul’s sister’s son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul. Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him. So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee, who hath something to say unto thee. Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him, What is that thou hast to tell me? And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more perfectly. But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee. So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him, See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭16‬-‭22‬ ‭

Centurions, Soldiers, Horsemen, Spearmen
And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Cæsarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night; and provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭23‬-‭24‬

Nothing Laid to His Charge Worthy of Death or of Bonds
And he wrote a letter after this manner: Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting. This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman. And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council: whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds. And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before thee what they had against him. Farewell.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭25‬-‭30‬ ‭

Commanded to Be Kept in Herod’s Judgment Hall
Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris. On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle: who, when they came to Cæsarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him. And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia; I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod’s judgment hall.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭31‬-‭35‬ ‭

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For the LORD Sustained Me
LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me.
Psalms 3:1-5

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Heart of the Prudent, Ear of the Wise
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
Proverbs 18:15

Prudent – marked by wisdom or judicious in practical affairs; discreet; sober; careful in providing for the future.

Oh Lord, please help me to be one marked by wisdom and a seeker of knowledge all the days of my life.

Day 185 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 2 Kings 23:31–25:30; Acts 22:17–23:10; Psalm 2:1-12; Proverbs 18:13

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Four Instructions
Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
Psalm 2:10-11

• Be wise
• Be Instructed
• Serve the LORD with Fear
• Rejoice with Trembling

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Freedom
And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the seven and twentieth day of the month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon in the year that he began to reign did lift up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of prison; and he spake kindly to him, and set his throne above the throne of the kings that were with him in Babylon; and changed his prison garments: and he did eat bread continually before him all the days of his life. And his allowance was a continual allowance given him of the king, a daily rate for every day, all the days of his life.
2 Kings 25:27-30

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Depart: For I Will Send Thee Far Hence Unto the Gentiles
And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; and saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: and when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him. And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭22‬:‭17‬-‭21‬ ‭

Born Free
And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air, the chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him. And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned? When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman. Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a Roman? He said, Yea. And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.
Acts 22:22-28

They Departed from Him Which Should Have Examined Him
Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him. On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬-‭30‬ ‭

I Have Lived in All Good Conscience Before God
And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day. And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest? Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭5‬

Pharisees and Sadducees
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question. And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both. 
Acts 23:6-8

Let Us Not Fight Against God
And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees’ part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God. And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭23‬:‭9-10

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He that Answereth Before He Heareth
He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
Proverbs 18:13

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Heavenly Father, I come before You today with a grateful heart. Thank You, my God, for the freedom I have in this country but even more so, Lord, the freedom I have in Jesus Christ, Your holy and precious Son. Please help me today and every day to cherish this gift that I did nothing to earn but was freely given. Be with us this day and let Your will be done in the USA. Draw us, as a nation, back to YOU and set a blazing REVIVAL FIRE in every home and heart across this great nation and every nation of this world. I ask this in Jesus’ Name. Amen! Amen!

Day 184 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 2 Kings 22:3–23:30; Acts 21:37–22:16; Psalm 1:1-6; Proverbs 18:11-12

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Before Destruction, Before Honour
Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 18:12

Haughty – disdainfully proud; snobbish; scornfully arrogant;

Humility – the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one’s own importance, rank.

Oh God, please show me the areas that I have allowed haughtiness to grow like weeds in my life!!!

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No King Before Him, Neither After Him Arose Any Like Him
And Shaphan the scribe shewed the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath delivered me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king. And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king’s, saying, Go ye, inquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is written concerning us.
2 Kings 22:10-13

So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her. And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me. Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched. But to the king ofJudah which sent you to inquire of the LORD, thus shall ye say to him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, As touching the words which thou hast heard; because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the LORD. Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.
2 Kings 22:14-20

And the king stood by a pillar, and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD, and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all their heart and all their soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people stood to the covenant.
2 Kings 23:3

And like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him.
2 Kings 23:25

So far this year, we have read about several evil kings—some so corrupt that they were known to sacrifice children. Today we read about King Josiah. Hilkiah, a priest, found a scroll in the temple that recorded the covenant between God and the children of Israel. When Josiah was made aware of how they had strayed, he turned to the LORD with all of his heart, sound, and might…and cleansed the land of idolatry.

Oh, how I want it to be said of me that I turned to the LORD with all of my heart, and with all of my soul, and with all my might! Please help me, Lord, because I know I can’t do anything apart from YOU living through me. I ask this in the Name above ALL names…JESUS!

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Suffer Me to Speak Unto the People
And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek? Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers? But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people. And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭37‬-‭40‬ ‭

Why Tarriest Thou? Arise, and Be Baptized, and Wash Away Thy Sins
Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you. (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,) I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
Acts 22:1-16

Paul was allowed to address the mob that wanted him dead. He preached the Gospel. Please help me, Heavenly Father, make Your good use of every word I am allowed to speak into others’ lives.

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He Shall Be Like a Tree Planted by the Rivers of Water
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Psalm 1:1-3

These are great verses when you feel like you are in one of those dry seasons; well, it is for me anyway. I usually can look at my life and ask myself – Have I delighted in the law of the LORD in these last days? Have I spent my time thinking about the things of this world or meditating on the Word day and night? The honest answers to those questions and then taking actions based on those answers will help me to flourish or cause me to continue to wither. Getting into the Word always works – because these Words that begin the book of Psalms are Promises we can count on every single moment. 

Here’s another promise…

The LORD Knoweth the Way of the Righteous
The ungodly are not so: But are like the chaff which the wind drive to away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Psalm 1:4-6

Day 183 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 2 Kings 20:1–22:2; Acts 21:18-36; Psalm 150:1-6; Proverbs 18:9-10

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Let Every Thing that Hath Breath Praise the LORD!
Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.
Psalm 150:1-6

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Behold, I Will Heal Thee
In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake. And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered.
2 Kings 20:1-7

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A Strong Tower
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Proverbs 18:10

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Paul Declared What Things God Had Wrought Among the Gentiles
And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present. And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭

When They Heard It, They Glorified the Lord
And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law: and they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs. What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that thou art come. Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a vow on them; them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law. As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭20‬-‭25‬

The Accomplishment of the Days of Purification
Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭26‬ ‭

The People Followed After, Crying, Away With Him
And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him, crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place. (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.) And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut. And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar. Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul. Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done. And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle. And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people. For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.
Acts 21:27-36

Paul returned to Jerusalem and met with some of the leaders of the church. They discussed issues involving Gentile believers and the observance of Jewish law. Paul preached the Gospel and that it was available for anyone and everyone who believed on Jesus to enter into relationship with God. So, in the eyes of the devout Jews, Paul had abandoned his faith and deserved to die. When Paul went into the temple, a mob formed. (Doesn’t that sound like today?) The soldiers arrested Paul and carried him out as the people cried, “Away with him.” The Holy Ghost had led Paul back to Jerusalem and Paul would never be a free man again.

There is a lesson for us as we read about Paul’s life and ministry. He shows what becoming Christlike looks like. Paul knew his life was nothing without his relationship with God and he chose to live his life as a living sacrifice to God. If he was to live or if he was to die had no bearing on his obedience or his sacrifice.

Heavenly Father, I come before you today, and I praise You!!! I praise You in this sanctuary this morning. I praise You for Your mighty acts in my life and the lives of those in my world. I praise You according to Your excellent greatness. I praise You with my mouth, my hands, my feet, my dance. May every movement I make and every step I take be an instrument of praise to You. May every word of my mouth line up and be as pure as Your holy Word. May my life be as a pleasing aroma. Please help me, Father, to walk in obedience to You and Your Word – a living sacrifice. I love You, my God – Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. I love You! I am nothing without You, and I want nothing today but that You would work in and through me today! Use me for Your purposes and Your Glory! In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen! Amen!

Day 182 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 2 Kings 18:13–19:37; Acts 21:1-17; Psalm 149:1-9; Proverbs 18:8

Praises in Their Mouth, and a Sword in Their Hand
Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand;
Psalm 149:1-6

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That All the Kingdoms of the Earth May Know
And Hezekiah received the letter of the hand of the messengers, and read it: and Hezekiah went up into the house of the LORD, and spread it before the LORD. And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which dwellest between the cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth. LORD, bow down thine ear, and hear: open, LORD, thine eyes, and see: and hear the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent him to reproach the living God. Of a truth, LORD, the kings of Assyria have destroyed the nations and their lands, and have cast their gods into the fire: for they were no gods, but the work of men’s hands, wood and stone: therefore they have destroyed them. Now therefore, O LORD our God, I beseech thee, save thou us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou art the LORD God, even thou only.
2 Kings 19:14-19

In yesterday’s reading, the Assyrians conquered the northern kingdom of Israel and sent ten of the ancient tribes into exile. In today’s reading, the Assyrians attempt to overthrow the kingdom of Judah. Assyria’s king Sennacherib sent officials to intimidate them into surrender. The officials taunted Jerusalem saying: “Who are they among all the gods of the countries, that have delivered their country out of mine hand, that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of mine hand? – 2 Kings 18:35.

King Hezekiah took off his robes and put on a sackcloth. He went to God’s Temple and dispatched messengers to find the prophet, Isaiah. Isaiah’s message was that the Assyrians would withdraw because they would hear a rumor of threats from another army. Sennacherib sent a threatening letter to Hezekiah, recounting all of his conquests and telling Hezekiah that Jerusalem would fall next.

Here was Hezekiah, with the enemy there threatening and taunting. Finally, Hezekiah took Sennacherib’s letter into the temple, laid it before the Lord, and confessed his powerlessness. Then – God wiped out the Assyrian army. Sennacherib withdrew to Nineveh, the capital city of his kingdom. There he was killed by two of his sons, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah that we also read in these passages today.  

There is a lesson here for times that we feel intimidated and backed against a wall. Sennacherib’s letter was meant to scare Hezekiah into defeat, but the intimidation was nothing more than idle words next to God’s mighty power. When we find ourselves in these situations, we have a choice—we can believe the threats of the enemy, or we can believe and act on God’s holy Word –  casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. – 1 Peter 5:7

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Coos, Rhodes, Patara, Penicia, Cyprus, Syria, Tyre
And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara: and finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth. Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden. 
Acts 21:1-3

And Finding Disciples
And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem. And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again. And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭4-‭7‬

We Entered Into the House of Philip the Evangelist
And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Cæsarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him. And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭

For I Am Ready Not to Be Bound Only
And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles. And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
Acts 21:10-14

In Jerusalem, the Brethren Received Us Gladly
And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem. There went with us also certain of the disciples of Cæsarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge. And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭21‬:‭15‬-‭17

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The Words of a Talebearer are as Wounds
The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
Proverbs 18:8

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Day 181 One-Year Daily Bible Reading – 2 Kings 17:1–18:12; Acts 20:1-38; Psalm 148:1-14; Proverbs 18:6-7

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After the Uproar was Ceased
And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia. And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece, and there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia. And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. These going before tarried for us at Troas.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭1‬-‭5‬

There Were Many Lights in the Upper Chamber
And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭6‬-‭8

They Brought the Young Man Alive
And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him. When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed. And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭

He Hasted If It Were Possible for Him
And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot. And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus. For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭20‬:‭13‬-‭16‬ ‭

Ye Know…After What Manner I Have Been with You
And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
Acts 20:17-21

And Now, Behold, I Go Bound
And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 20:22-24

And Now, Behold, I Know Ye Shall See My Face No More
And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Acts 20:25-28

For I Know This…Shall Grievous Wolves Enter
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
Acts 20:29-31

And Now, Brethren, I Commend You to God
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
Acts 20:32-33

Ye Yourselves Know, That These Hands Have Ministere
Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Acts 20:34-35

And When He Had Thus Spoken, He Kneeled Down, and Prayed
And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
Acts 20:36-38

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Hezekiah Did that Which Was Right in the Sight of the Lord
Now it came to pass in the third year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah began to reign. Twenty and five years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name also was Abi, the daughter of Zachariah. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did. He removed the high places, and brake the images, and cut down the groves, and brake in pieces the brasen serpent that Moses had made: for unto those days the children of Israel did burn incense to it: and he called it Nehushtan. He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him. For he clave to the LORD, and departed not from following him, but kept his commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses. And the LORD was with him; and he prospered whithersoever he went forth: and he rebelled against the king of Assyria, and served him not. He smote the Philistines, even unto Gaza, and the borders thereof, from the tower of the watchmen to the fenced city.
2 Kings 18:1-8

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Praise Ye the LORD
Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights. Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts. Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the LORD: for he commanded, and they were created.
Psalm 148:1-5

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A Fool’s Mouth is His Destruction
A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.
Proverbs 18:6-7