His Light
By Abby Phinney, 13, Indiana He was standing in a lighted room, a closed closet door beside him. He opened the door, and light streamed into the once-dark closet. What was the point of this little exhibition? The man demonstrating explained, “Darkness does not take over light. Light takes over darkness. When I opened that [...]
ODB: silence, please!
September 2, 2010
READ: Psalm 46
Be still, and know that I am God. —Psalm 46:10
Our world has become increasingly noisy. But according to a news report, science has found a way to achieve absolute silence: “Scientists have shown off the blueprint for an ‘acoustic cloak,’ which could make objects impervious to sound waves. The technology, outlined in the New Journal of Physics, could be used to build sound-proof homes, advanced concert halls, or stealth warships.”
When we seek out a quiet place for devotional time with God, we may wish we had an “acoustic cloak.” But even if we could silence all external sound, the internal noises of worry would still reverberate in our minds. We are told: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10). But how do we calm our hearts in practical terms?
God understands our dilemma and has provided His own “acoustic cloak” to quiet our hearts. It involves exchanging our cares for His peace. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7).
As we place our concerns in God’s capable hands, we find a quietness that only He can provide. —Dennis Fisher
God gives peace to those who are quiet before Him.
Source: Our Daily Bread
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Loading ...ODJ: discover the book
Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the court secretary, “I have found the Book of the Law in the Lord’s temple!” (v.8).
READ: 2 Kings 22:8-23:3
While preaching one Sunday morning, I invited three children to search our church sanctuary for several scrolls with Bible verses written on them. Whenever they found a scroll, I would have them read the words aloud, and then I would give them a prize. You should have seen those kids. They ran, moved chairs, and looked under plants and in purses (they had permission). Their quest for the Scriptures was extremely intense, but exciting. In a similar way, we are to search diligently to discover the importance of the Word of God in our lives.
In 2 Kings 22, King Josiah and the people of Judah also discovered the importance of the Word of God in their lives. When Josiah began taking action against idol worship in Judah, Hilkiah found the Book of the Law (probably referring to the book of Deuteronomy—28:61; 29:21) in the temple. It must have been lost or concealed during the reign of King Manasseh. Josiah did several things after uncovering God’s Word. He had it read to him as he listened intently (v.10). In so doing, he became aware of God’s commands. He responded by tearing his clothes in grief (v.11). Then he refined his knowledge by submitting to others who could help him understand it (vv.12-20). Finally, he and the people renewed their commitment to its prominence in their lives by pledging themselves to the covenant written in the Book (23:1-4).
Today, God’s Word is not concealed or lost; it’s at our fingertips. Yet there’s still a need to rediscover its power and prominence in our lives. Let’s spend our time reading, responding, refining our understanding, and renewing our commitment to be changed by its message. —Marvin Williams
How often do you read the Bible? What part of your life needs to be brought in line with its message? What can you do to renew your commitment to its prominence in your life?
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