In life, there are many things that we are told to be and not to be. After reading Jeremiah 17 recently, I submit that being a shrub should be high on the list of things not to be in life.
God’s Sovereignty is Better
Life is busy. There are so many distractions in our daily lives, that we can be easily be influenced by the realities they create for us. Instead of seeing a loving God sovereignly in control, we see the fallen state of our circumstances, and are driven to worry, doubt, fear, and anxiety. The truth however, is that God is good, and His sovereignty is too.
Our Sin Blinds Us
Recently, I was reading in the Book of JUDGES about the story Samson is probably most remembered by – losing his hair, his strength, and ultimately, his life (Judges 16). There were a few things I noticed about this story that struck me differently this time around, specifically, the blinding nature and effects of Sampson’s sin.
Daniel’s Faith Changes His Name
Throughout the Book of DANIEL, we see Daniel’s name change from Daniel, to Belteshazzar, and then back to Daniel. It’s important to note the change, so that we can then go back and uncover the reason for the change – Daniel’s faith in God.
Contending for The Name
The name Jacob means ‘Deceiver’ and eventually he has his name changed by God to Israel, which means ‘God Contended’. Until recently, I had not realized how important Jacob’s name, and the transformation of his name, are to the story. After teaching the story of Jacob wrestling with the angel of the LORD to our 3-4 year old class at church, here are some things I learned along the way.
Awakening Oaks 