Donna Snow, Author at Artesian Ministries

Free Bible in One Year Reading Plans – Printable

Posted on April 28, 2024April 26, 2024 by Donna Snow

If you are serious about spending more time reading the entire Bible in one year you have come to the right place. Intentional, daily readings of God’s Word reveal the big picture of God’s story.

These free printable Bible reading plans take you through the whole Bible in a year. Print the one(s) you like and get started reading Scripture on a regular basis.

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Whether you are making a new year’s resolution or simply committing to read the Bible on a daily basis, this plan takes the guesswork out of it.

Each day’s reading takes you straight through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Each day’s assigned reading methodically works through the entire book in one year.

I have used this plan on and off for years. Some years I switch things up and use one of the other plans. The whole point is to spend daily time in God’s Word.

Simply work through this bible reading schedule and God will grant you a better understanding of Him and His plan for your life. Download HERE.

One Year in the Psalms

Perhaps reading through all the books of the Bible feels intimidating. I certainly understand! Reading through the Psalms provides many different topics that paint an incredible canvas of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness.

This Bible reading plan walks you through the book of Psalms in one year. Some days your reading is one powerful verse; others it’s a short psalm. The Psalms hold some of the most beautiful words that we can use to praise the Lord.

The Psalms touch on every human emotion imaginable. Over half of the Psalms were written by David. Extraordinary! Also, about one-third of the Psalms are laments that contain sorrow, questioning God, and much more.

This slower reading pace allows breathing space for God’s Word to sink deep into your soul. You can start this Bible reading chart any time of the year and devour the psalms a little bit each day. Download HERE.

Historical Overview One-Year Bible Reading Plan

This Bible reading plan offers a basic outline of the Old Testament readings and New Testament readings, then fills in readings with more detailed books. You will read the entire Bible!

The Old Testament follows a historical overview, then moves to the prophetic literature, followed by the wisdom literature, and Psalms (some twice).

If you are drawn to history, then this plan is for you. It provides the Scriptures around certain events to better understand that particular time period or event.

The New Testament readings with Christ’s birth and then moves into Acts (Luke’s sequel). Then you move into Ephesians, and pastoral epistles, followed by the rest.

It may feel different to read through the Bible using this method. However, if you are already familiar with Scripture, this will shake things up! It’s just one of the different ways Scripture can be read. Download HERE.

Read the Bible at Your Own Pace

This one-year plan will guide you through the Wor d of God at your own pace. This a great way to go if you have a super busy schedule and cannot commit to reading every day of the week.

It’s also a great choice if you are in a season of life with extra time. You can read for as long and as much as you like any day of the month.

Some days may go faster than others, but the whole point is to stay in God’s Word regularly. His wonderful truths instruct, guide, and teach us. The Bible provides the encouragement we need to shine His light in a dark world.

During this journey through His Word, ask God each day to speak directly to you from Scripture. You will be blessed whether you read a whole book of the Bible in one sitting, an entire chapter, or just a few verses.

They key is to approach your time in the Word with expectation. His story is our story and He has many things to teach us. Download HERE.

Read the Bible in 90 Days

Many people have never read the Bible cover to cover. This 90-days of reading will help you attentively read through the entire Bible.

Remember that this is not a competition with yourself just to check the “read” boxes. You will see God move in fresh ways if you commit to listening as you read. Pray each time you read to hear what God wants to you hear from His Word.

This is not a bible study method. This is reading Scripture almost like a novel. You are reading to catch the overarching story of God’s story. Absorb what you can and trust God for the rest.

Setting a daily reading goal is important because each day’s reading takes an average of 45-60 minutes. I highly recommend actually reading the Bible rather than listening to an audio version since distractions easily happen.

You’re on an important mission! So it’s crucial to grab additional reading time whenever possible. While waiting to meet friends. Waiting for the oven to pre-heat. Waiting in your child’s school car pick-up line. Perhaps arrive at church early and read in the pew before worship begins. Every ten minutes helps! Download HERE.

90-Day Chronological Bible Reading Plan

This is similar to the historical Bible reading plan above. However, it differs from other daily Bible reading plans in two ways.

First, the daily readings are in chronological order according to when each book and part of Scripture was originally penned. For instance, one day’s reading in the Old Testament includes chapters from Psalms, 2 Samuel, and 1 Chronicles to put them in the proper timeline.

Second, this plan provides a unique overview of Old Testament history by following the dates each book was written. You will be flipping back and forth in New Testament passages, as well.

In some places, one chapter of the New Testament book of Acts is “interrupted” by various chapters from 1 Corinthians and 1 Thessalonians. For instance, your first New Testament reading day includes chapters from Matthew, Luke, Mark, and John!

This plan keeps the time periods in order, which provides a wonderful new perspective of real-life events as they were recorded. This is the best option for history lovers. Download HERE.

Consider Journaling

One of the practices that I’ve incorporated over the years as I read through the Scriptures is to take notes. That may seem odd, but it has provided a significant spiritual blessing.

Each morning as I read through the day’s assignment, I jot down something that I learned for the first time. Sometimes, the words speak directly to what I’m going through in my life at the time.

I keep those notes with me throughout the day. During quiet moments throughout the day, I pull out my note and re-read it. That practice has provided extra time to meditate on the Lord’s words throughout my day.

I’ve learned that the extra meditation time allows me to recall the details and lessons in Scripture more readily. It provides time to think through the context and overarching story of those passages.

Most importantly, God has used journaling to grow my faith exponentially. It has inspired me to write and publish Bible studies, daily devotions, and much more.

Bottom Line

No matter which plan you choose, each one (except the Psalms plan) will take you through the entire Bible. The plans make your Bible everyday blessings waiting to be discovered.

These plans are for new believers and veteran Christians. Make one your own plan and get started. Simply print 2-sided, fold it over, and tuck your handy checklist in your Bible. It can serve as a bookmark for where you need to read next.

Through hard times, good times, and every time in between, include a Bible reading plan in your Bible study tools kit. You will learn just how much God and Jesus Christ love you.

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was difficult. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Powerful Bible Verses to Start Your Day With God

Posted on April 25, 2024April 25, 2024 by Donna Snow

Starting with powerful Bible verses is a great way to set up your best day. Whether or not you are a morning person, starting your day in the name of the Lord makes all the difference.

Your to-do list may be impressive today. Take a moment to pause and set your mind on the Lord and His love for you. Regardless of the time of day, God will lead your feet along the right paths.

Good Bible Verse for Morning

Good morning Bible verses start your day with our God of hope leading the way. Here are some powerful Bible verses to add to your morning routine.

Psalm 143:8 – “Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”

Psalm 90:14 – “Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Wisdom Verses to Start the Day

In this angry world, sometimes a well-instructed tongue can be a challenge. Thankfully, through the power of the Holy Spirit, our Sovereign Lord provides a better way to keep our minds on Him. The following Bible verses will help!

James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”

Ephesians 5:15-17 – “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

Colossians 3:16 – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”

Proverbs 18:15 – “An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.”

Psalm 90:12 – “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

Comfort Verses to Start the Day

God’s plan for our lives will take us out of our comfort zone. Sometimes a hard day can bring a spirit of fear. Thankfully, our God of all comfort knows such things and provides comfort.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Romans 8:26-28 – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Related: My Bible study, “The God of All Comfort“

Encouragement Bible Verses

Each day has enough trouble of its own, doesn’t it? It’s a good thing that our Heavenly Father knows that we need Him and encouragement with the morning light.

Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.”

Romans 8:31 – “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Psalm 91:11 – “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

John 16:33 – “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Morning Verses to Start the Day

Hard times can cause anxiety, stress, and worry. The Word of God provides a fresh start each day to see the good work of God in your life.

Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Psalm 51:10 – “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

Ephesians 6:10-11, 13 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”

1 Thessalonians 5:8 – “But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.”

Scripture for Strength

Times of trouble can hinder our joy and leave us feeling vulnerable. Here are perfect verses to remind you of God’s faithfulness and strength.

Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

1 Chronicles 16:11 – “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!”

Psalm 73:26 – “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.”

Joshua 1:9 – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Psalm 28:7 – “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

Psalm 46:1-3 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.”

Inspirational Bible Verse for Today

Inspirational Scriptures provide daily encouragement first thing in the morning. New beginnings and new mornings provide a reminder of God and the very present help He is every day.

2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”

Colossians 1:10 – “So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Ephesians 5:8 – “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.”

Romans 6:4 – “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.”

The Lord’s Great Love Verses

God’s love is stubborn over us. The best way to start a new day is to remember the steadfast love of the Lord.

John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Proverbs 8:17 – “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.”

1 Corinthians 13:13 – “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

John 13:34-35 – “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”

Peace of God Scriptures

Isaiah 26:3 – “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

Romans 12:18 – “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

Psalm 4:8 – “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Morning Verses for Prayer

As you begin with inspirational morning Bible verses, take some quiet time to pray God’s Word back to Him. Here are some excellent ones to start with.

Psalm 19:14 – “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

Isaiah 12:2 – “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.”

1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

I pray that you found a favorite good morning Bible verse to begin the rest of your day. As you start today in a powerful way with prayer and Bible study, I pray that God’s tender mercy guides you. May our Father of compassion lead you to good deeds today. God bless your day!

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About the Author

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Rubies in the Bible – Meaning and Precious Worth

Posted on April 24, 2024April 24, 2024 by Donna Snow

“She is more precious than rubies” (Proverbs 3:15) is one of the more familiar verses in Scripture. Rubies in the Bible are always associated with value and worth. But what is the precise meaning, history, and folklore behind rubies?

Rubies, a Precious Jewel
Folklore Around Rubies
Rubies in the Bible
Value of Rubies

Rubies, a Precious Jewel

According to the Gem Institute of America, rubies are precious gems classified as a red color variety of corundum stones. Most other colors of corundum are called sapphires. Rubies are sometimes known as a red sapphire. Some rubies are deep red, while others have a color of a reddish tinge.

Classified with a Mohs hardness value of nine, rubies are the hardest minerals known to exist (only diamonds are harder). The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, located in Washington, D.C., houses one of the greatest collections of the world’s finest rubies.

Folklore Around Rubies

The ruby has accumulated a host of legends over the centuries. According to the Gem Institute of America, early cultures treasured rubies for their similarity to the redness of the blood that flowed through their veins. They believed that rubies held the power of life.

Ancient Hindus believed that those who offered fine rubies to their god Krishna were granted rebirth as emperors. Hindus divided rubies into four categories, calling the true Oriental ruby a Brahmin. Someone in possession of a Brahmin was believed to have the advantage of perfect safety.

People in India believed that rubies enabled their owners to live in peace with their enemies. In Burma (a ruby source since at least 600 AD), warriors possessed rubies to make them invincible in battle. Like all reddish gemstones that resembled the color of blood, this gemstone was thought to make the wearer invincible to wounds.

According to “The Curious Lore of Precious Stones”, people in antiquity believed that rubies (like diamonds) were created by a bolt of lightning. They also believed that a real ruby generated light from within the red stone itself.

Rubies in the Bible

Rubies appear less than a dozen times in the Bible in three contexts: virtuous women, the value of wisdom, and as a precious stone. Interestingly, the New Testament does not reference rubies.

According to Easton’s Bible Dictionary, the exact meaning of the Hebrew word in the Old Testament is uncertain. Some render the original word as ruby, red coral, pearl, and even mother of pearl.

The Hebrew word “odem” used in Ezekiel 28 is uniquely translated as ruby: “You were in Eden, God’s garden. You were covered with gold and every precious stone: carnelian, topaz, and moonstone; beryl, onyx, and jasper stone; lapis lazuli, turquoise, and emerald” (Ezekiel 28:13).

1. A Virtuous Woman

The book of Proverbs mentions rubies twice, both in context to the value or price of a virtuous woman:

“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 3:15).
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies” (Proverbs 31:10).

The unambiguous meaning is that a capable wife and the kind of woman with strength of character and true wisdom is a worthy woman. Such a positive affirmation for godly women!

2. Value of Wisdom

Scripture also provides analogies between the value of wisdom and rubies:

“Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies” (Job 28:18).
“For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her” (Proverbs 8:11).
“Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel” (Proverbs 20:15).

Wisdom means far more than simply making good decisions. Rather, it encompasses God’s way of applying His wisdom to every area of our lives. After all, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:17, 9:10)

3. A Precious Stone

Finally, the Bible references rubies as basically a precious stone. The ruby was one of the stones mentioned in the high priest’s breastplate: “You shall mount on it four rows of stones: the first row shall be a row of ruby, topaz, and emerald” (Exodus 28:17).

Rubies are also mentioned in Isaiah 54 in verses referencing the eternal covenant of peace: “And I will make your battlements of rubies, and your gates of beryl stones, and all your walls of precious stones” (Isaiah 54:12).

Merchant traders offered rubies as part of their goods to buyers: “Syria was thy merchant by reason of the multitude of thy handiworks: they traded for thy wares with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and rubies” (Ezekiel 27:16).

Value of Rubies

Rubies are precious gemstones treasured around the world as a valuable jewel. The color of the ruby and its high value make rubies one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.

The Sunrise Ruby is the most expensive in the world. This 25.59-carat rare jewel holds two records. First, it’s the most expensive ruby in the world valued at over $30 million. Second, it’s the most expensive colored gemstone in the world.

The Sunrise Ruby is a Burmese ruby with the ideal “Pigeon’s Blood” red variety color. Currently, it is encased in a ring of fine gold surrounded by diamond settings of stones.

Bottom Line

Rubies have been classified as one of the most precious stones created by God. Time has not diminished people’s desire to own a multitude of rubies. Rubies continue to be one of the most sought-after gems in the world.

Most importantly, God’s Word remains steadfast that rubies represent the value of wisdom and virtuous women.

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About the Author

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Bible References to Ziz: Road or Mythical Monster?

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Donna Snow

Aside from being a fun word to pronounce for speakers of modern English, Ziz is an actual place that appears in the Bible. However, there is more to the story than Bible references to Ziz.

Ziz also appears as one of the mythical creatures in Jewish lore. Let’s look at Ziz as a place, high priestly breastplate, and giant griffin-like bird of Jewish mythology.

Ziz: An Ancient Road in the Bible
Ziz and the High Priest’s Breastplate
Ziz in Jewish Mythology

Ziz: An Ancient Road in the Bible

The Bible references to Ziz in the Old Testament: “Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel” (2 Chronicles 20:16).

If you love serious bible study using maps, here’s your chance! Ziz is a mountain pass used during marauding expeditions by the Ammonites, a horde of Moabites, and Meunites. They used the actual ascent of Ziz to attack Jerusalem during the reign of King Jehoshaphat.

The context suggests that the pass was a strategic link between Jerusalem and En Gedi. The cliff of Ziz rises on the western shores of the Dead Sea in the wilderness of Judea (2 Chronicles 20:2). The end of the valley (or wadi) is associated with the ascent of Ziz. It lays east of the wilderness of Judah and the wilderness of Tekoa.

In present day Israel, Ziz is specifically associated with a military road. It is located east of the wilderness of Jeruel constructed during the Israelite monarchic period. The present steep pass winds for more than a mile, covering less than half a mile “as the crow flies.”

Ziz and the High Priest’s Breastplate

The second way that the Bible references to Ziz relates to the clergy. Biblical texts go into elaborate detail regarding the high priest’s required dress as he served God. Above all it differed from an ordinary priest’s dress in both content and level of elaborate ornament.

The “ziz” was a golden plate fastened to the high priest’s “mitre.” The mitre (or headgear) was shaped like the inverted calyx of a flower. The ziz was attached by two ribbons of blue lace (symbolizing royalty). The ziz was two fingers wide and reached from temple to temple.

Interestingly, the word “ziz” also means flower. The golden plate called a “ziz” was fastened to the high priest’s headgear which was shaped like a flower.

Ziz in Jewish Mythology

Like American folklore, Jewish oral traditions provide fascinating study. Primordial beasts are common in ancient writing. They provide great stories around a nighttime campfire! Early Christians likely heard these stories of Jewish mythology.

Three great beasts are mentioned in the Bible and Jewish mythology. There are references to a beast of the sea, a beast of the land, and a beast of the air. Each primordial creature could fill fascinating bible stories.

Ziz is allegedly the beast in the animal kingdom that ruled over creatures of the air. It appears under two interchangeable names in the Bible. Ziz is also known as Bar Yochnei. It is mentioned in the original Hebrew in Psalm 80:14 (though generally lost in the English translation)

It is unclear who or what is referenced as the “Ziz” in the Hebrew biblical text However, Jewish sages understood Ziz to be a giant bird. Ziz was so big that its wingspan could block out the sun. The Talmud tells the story of an egg of Ziz so big that its contents drowned sixty cities and broke 300 cedar trees.

The most famous beast in the Old Testament is Leviathan (or twisting serpent of the water). Leviathan represents evil. It could be terrifying to a group of travelers on the sea. And it could shock a child of God with a limited understanding of the Bible, Leviathan represents evil.

Bottom Line

There is no mention of Ziz in the Apocrypha books. Ziz does not appear in any teaching of Jesus, or in the history of the patriarchs. However, a quick bible search feature reveals that Ziz is mentioned in one verse in the original King James version of the Bible.

It’s fun to take a field trip outside of traditional Bible lessons to hear stories of giant mythical birds and a fleeing serpent. Perhaps one day you will visit Israel for a quick drive along the ascent of Ziz!

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The Lineage of Jacob and His Family Tree in the Bible

Posted on April 22, 2024June 18, 2024 by Donna Snow

Who was this man who had a wrestling match with God? We love genealogy because it’s fascinating to understand who we descended from. Lineage is key in Scripture. A study of the lineage of Jacob leads us to the twelve tribes of Israel.

What is one of the most astounding facts about the lineage of Jacob? Following Jacob’s family tree through the generations eventually reveals the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the New Testament.

Who was Jacob?
Overview of Jacob’s Life
Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry
Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood
Twelve Tribes of Israel
The Lineage of Jesus
The Rest of Jacob’s Life

Who was Jacob?

Jacob’s name first appears in the Old Testament book of Genesis. Jacob was the grandson of Abraham and the son of Isaac. The lineage of Jacob is part of Israel’s illustrious line of patriarchs. Jacob was born in Canaan, which later became the nation of Israel and God’s Promised Land to His people.

Jacob was the second son of Isaac and Rebekah. The beginning of Jacob’s life is recorded in Genesis 25:26 – “Afterward his brother came out with his hand holding Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob.” Jacob was a twin, born in birth order moments after his older brother Esau.

The name Jacob means “he takes by the heel” or “he cheats.” It foreshadowed the life-altering, intense rivalry that would grow between Jacob and Esau.

Overview of Jacob’s Life

The lineage of Jacob is one of the most riveting in biblical history. Pivotal moments include rivalry, favoritism, deceit, transformation, forgiveness, and redemption. It’s an epic journey all the way to Jesus’ birth centuries later. Let’s dive in.

Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry

As siblings Jacob and Esau grew older, their differences became evident. Esau was a rugged outdoorsman and skilled hunter while Jacob was more of a quiet homebody (Genesis 25:27).

Favoritism entered the scene in one devastating sentence: “Isaac loved Esau because he ate of his game, but Rebekah loved Jacob” (Genesis 25:28). Favoritism is a deadly poison in any situation, but especially in families.

One day, Esau returned from hunting exhausted and asked Jacob for some of his stew. Jacob said he would give his brother stew only if Esau sold Jacob his birthright. (A firstborn son received a double portion of his father’s inheritance as a birthright.) Esau agreed and gave his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:29-34).

Later, when their father Isaac became old and was about to die, Rebekah conspired with Jacob to steal Isaac’s blessing from Esau. It’s easy to see why Jacob’s name means “he cheats,” right?

Fearing retaliation from Esau, Jacob fled from home to seek refuge with his maternal uncle Laban. Before Jacob’s departure, Isaac blessed Jacob with God’s promise to be fruitful and multiply. He instructed Jacob to look for a wife among Laban’s daughters rather than the Canaanite women (Genesis 28:1-4).

Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood

A significant turning point in the lineage of Jacob and his life happened during his journey to the distant land of Haran where his uncle Laban lived.

One night near Bethel, Jacob had a dream where he saw the angels of God ascending and descending a ladder to heaven. God said to him: “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring” (Genesis 28:13).

God revealed the lineage of Jacob and his offspring would be blessed and become a great nation in the land of Canaan (Genesis 28:13-17). It would be a long time before God’s plan became a reality, but God left Jacob with this beautiful promise: “Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go” (Genesis 28:15).

1. Jacob’s Marriages to Leah and Rachel

When Jacob reached his uncle Laban’s home, he fell head over heels in love with Laban’s youngest daughter Rachel. Jacob offered to work for Laban for seven years to secure a marriage with Rachel.

After seven years, the wedding took place. However, Laban switched his older daughter Leah for Rachel on their wedding night without Jacob’s knowledge. Although he was furious at Laban’s underhanded trick, Jacob’s love for Rachel had not diminished.

Jacob promised to work for Laban for another seven years to win Rachel’s hand in marriage (Genesis 29:21-30). It took perseverance to marry the only woman Jacob truly loved, but the deal was struck. After working for Laban for fourteen years, Jacob finally got to marry his beloved Rachel.

Through this period of love, betrayal, and perseverance, God significantly transformed Jacob. The lineage of Jacob is blessed with many sons (Genesis 29-30). At the proper time, Jacob finally took his family and livestock and left Laban.

2. Jacob Wrestles with God

One night along the journey, Jacob wrestled with God (Genesis 32:22-32) and then was reconciled to his twin brother Esau (Genesis 33). God continued to bless Jacob and gave him a new name: Israel (Genesis 35:9-15).

3. Jacob’s Children

God made the lineage of Jacob fruitful and blessed him with twelve sons and one daughter (Genesis 29-30). Through his wives and their maidservants, here are Jacob’s children arranged by their birth mothers:

Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin
Bilhah (Rachel’s maidservant): Dan and Naphtali
Leah: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and daughter Dinah
Zilpah (Leah’s maidservant): Gad and Asher

Each son of Jacob became their own tribe for the new nation of Israel.

Twelve Tribes of Israel

Just as God promised, the lineage of Jacob multiplied greatly to form God’s chosen people. Their lineage stretches to this very day.

Jacob’s sons each held a specific destiny from God as the twelve tribes of Israel. Before Jacob’s death, Jacob blessed each of his sons according to God’s instructions.

1: Reuben

Reuben means “behold, a son” and his symbol of blessing means reckless. Jacob’s blessing to Reuben from God:

“Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, and the firstfruits of my strength, preeminent in dignity and preeminent in power. Unstable as water, you shall not have preeminence, because you went up to your father’s bed; then you defiled it—he went up to my couch!” (Genesis 49:3-4)

2, 3: Simeon and Levi

Simeon means “hearing” and Levi means “attachment.” Simeon’s and Levi’s symbols of blessing both mean violence. Jacob’s blessings to Simeon and Levi from God:

“Simeon and Levi are brothers; weapons of violence are their swords. Let my soul come not into their council; O my glory, be not joined to their company. For in their anger they killed men, and in their willfulness they hamstrung oxen.Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce, and their wrath, for it is cruel! I will divide them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel” (Genesis 49:5-7).

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4: Judah

Judah means “praise” and his symbol of blessing is a lion. Jacob’s blessing to Judah from God:

“Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons shall bow down before you.Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?”

“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.”

“Binding his foal to the vine and his donkey’s colt to the choice vine, he has washed his garments in wine and his vesture in the blood of grapes.His eyes are darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk” (Genesis 49:8-12).

5. Zebulun

Zebulun means “abode” and his symbol of blessing is a ship. Jacob’s blessing to Zebulun from God:

“Zebulun shall dwell at the shore of the sea; he shall become a haven for ships, and his border shall be at Sidon” (Genesis 49:13).

6. Issachar

Issachar means “reward” and his symbol of blessing is a donkey. Jacob’s blessing to Issachar from God:

“Issachar is a strong donkey, crouching between the sheepfolds.He saw that a resting place was good, and that the land was pleasant, so he bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant at forced labor” (Genesis 49:14-15).

7. Dan

Dan means “judgment” and his symbol of blessing is a serpent. Jacob’s blessing to Dan from God:

“Dan shall judge his people as one of the tribes of Israel.Dan shall be a serpent in the way, a viper by the path,
that bites the horse’s heels so that his rider falls backward.I wait for your salvation, O Lord.“Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:16-18).

8. Gad

Gad means “good fortune” and his symbol of blessing is a raider. Jacob’s blessing to Gad from God: “Raiders shall raid Gad, but he shall raid at their heels” (Genesis 49:19).

9. Asher

Asher means “happy” and his symbol of blessing is rich food. Jacob’s blessing to Asher from God: “Asher’s food shall be rich, and he shall yield royal delicacies” (Genesis 49:20).

10. Naphtali

Naphtali means “wrestle” and his symbol of blessing is a doe. Jacob’s blessing to Naphtali from God: “Naphtali is a doe let loose that bears beautiful fawns” (Genesis 49:21).

11. Joseph

Joseph means “may he add” and his symbol of blessing means fruitful. He did not become a named tribe of Israel. His two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, became two half-tribes (comprising one tribe) as a double blessing to Joseph. Jacob’s blessing to Joseph from God:

“Joseph is a fruitful bough, a fruitful bough by a spring; his branches run over the wall.The archers bitterly attacked him, shot at him, and harassed him severely,yet his bow remained unmoved; his arms were made agile by the hands of the Mighty One of Jacob (from there is the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel),by the God of your father who will help you, by the Almighty who will bless you with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that crouches beneath, blessings of the breasts and of the womb.”

“The blessings of your father are mighty beyond the blessings of my parents, up to the bounties of the everlasting hills. May they be on the head of Joseph, and on the brow of him who was set apart from his brothers” (Genesis 49:22-26).

See Meant for Good, an in-depth Bible study that I wrote of the life of Joseph which contains all of this and much more.

12. Benjamin

Benjamin means “son of the right hand” and his symbol of blessing is a wolf. Jacob’s blessing to Benjamin from God: “Benjamin is a ravenous wolf, in the morning devouring the prey and at evening dividing the spoil” (Genesis 49:27).

As for these blessings, Scripture tells us: “All these are the twelve tribes of Israel. This is what their father said to them as he blessed them, blessing each with the blessing suitable to him” (Genesis 49:28).

Jacob’s blessings were prophetic over his sons’ lives, as well as those of his two grandsons Manasseh and Ephraim. God’s blessings over you and me as His children are just as powerful, personal, and prophetic.

The Lineage of Jesus

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was prophesied and came through the tribe of Judah (Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38, Genesis 49:10, and Isaiah 11:1). Jesus is called the “Son of David” on a number of occasions throughout the Gospels. King David was born from Judah’s tribe.

God had promised David, the first rightful king of Israel, that his throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-13). This caused the people to long to see David’s greater son, Jesus the Messiah, who would rule forever.

As a descendant of Jacob’s line, Jesus was also rightfully called by Pilate “the king of the Jews” even though Pilate likely did not know that fact.

The Rest of Jacob’s Life

Jacob showed favoritism to Joseph as the firstborn son of his beloved Rachel. Unfortunately, Jacob did not learn the collateral damage that favoritism can cause in a family based on his own history with his twin brother Esau.

Jacob’s ten older sons hated Joseph and sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). He ended up in Egypt. After thirteen years as a slave and prisoner, God elevated Joseph to Prime Minister of the land of Egypt. The famine brings Joseph’s brothers to Egypt to buy food and the family is eventually reconciled (Genesis 39-45).

Joseph moves his entire family from Canaan to Egypt to settle in the lush area of Goshen (Genesis 46-47). Jacob lived in Egypt for seventeen years before dying at the age of 147. Following a period of mourning, Joseph and his brothers buried Jacob’s body in the land of Canaan, according to his wishes (Genesis 48-50).

What an extraordinary man and extraordinary story! May God bless your extraordinary life in the Lord, as well.

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What is the Biblical Meaning of Restore and Renew?

Posted on April 18, 2024April 18, 2024 by Donna Snow

There are no two ways around it: life is hard. However, the biblical meaning of restore and renew involves God’s way of bringing about a restored soul, restoration of peace, physical restoration, and even financial restitution.

Hope abounds in Christ! Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are filled with the process of restoration of God’s people in various ways. Let’s dive in.

What Does Restore Mean Biblically?

God’s restoration of us is a beautiful gift. God’s Word is full of Hebrew and Greek words referencing His restoration process.

The dictionary definition of restoration is the action of returning something to a former owner, place, or condition. The biblical meaning of the word “restore” is mostly literal.

Tangible Restoration

Land, property, health, life, and other tangibles are the subject of restoration:

1 Kings 20:34 – “I will return the cities my father took from your father,” Ben-Hadad offered. “You may set up your own market areas in Damascus, as my father did in Samaria.”
Job 20:10 – “His children must make amends to the poor; his own hands must give back his wealth.”
Ezekiel 18:7 – “He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked.”
Mark 3:5 – “Jesus looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.”

We see such restoration throughout the Book of Job. The story of Job is sobering to read because he literally loses everything except his life and faith. Job’s friends only see the turn of Job’s fortunes due to sin. But that wasn’t the case.

God’s desire was to prove to Satan that a believer’s faith can be stronger than any misery they endure – even the severest afflictions. God restored to Job a double portion of the blessings he had before, including Job’s former condition of health and wealth.

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Figurative Restoration

When we look at the figurative usage of restoration, there are several verses to consider covering two overarching areas.

1. Spiritual Restoration

First and foremost (since it impacts eternal life) is spiritual restoration. This aspect holds a different value than physical restoration because only our spirit is eternal. It is a return to our proper condition before the loss of Eden — a spiritual reset, if you will.

In Psalm 51:12, David writes: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” After falling headlong into sin with Bathsheba, David turns to our God of restoration.

In Psalm 23:3, the psalmist calls on the name of the Lord for strength during trials: “He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

In Galatians 6:1, mature believers are also encouraged to identify their spiritual gifts and strengths in order to restore the spiritual health of a wayward believer: “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”

2. Eschatological Restoration

The Word of God also references an eschatological restoration, which points to the Last Judgment, the reign of Christ, and times of restoration of all things:

Matthew 19:28 – “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel‘.”
Acts 3:20-21 – “That times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets long ago.”

Eschatological restoration is a category that garners significant theological discussion and fear fodder for prosperity preachers. But Scripture is clear that the restoration of man comes from God alone through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

What Does Renew Mean Biblically?

God sent Jesus into the world not only to restore us but to renew us. Biblically, renewal means that we are remade into something new and better in Christ.

Renewal references God’s process of sanctification. Sanctification encompasses the work of the Holy Spirit, who leads us into eternal life. It includes the gift of faith, justification, our inner transformation, perseverance in faith, and complete renewal on Judgment Day.

In the process of renewal, God removes us from our former place of spiritual darkness and ushers us into His glorious light.

2 Corinthians 4:16 – “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.”
Isaiah 40:31 – “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

In some places the Bible conveys renewal in a primary sense of literal rather than spiritual. For instance, the kingdom renewal at Gilgal: “Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingship” (1 Samuel 11:14).

What is Spiritual Renewal?

In addition to the points and passages above, spiritual renewal means relying on Christ through faith for inner strength and resolve in our pursuit of God.

Spiritual renewal is not merely a theological concept. In Christ, we are given a clear sense of sin and its damage that is replaced by a fresh sense of God, His grace, and God’s plan for our lives.

Lamentations 5:21 – “Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return.”
Ephesians 4:22-23 – “To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires,and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”
Colossians 3:9-10 – “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practicesand have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”

Spiritual renewal is also viewed from the perspective of repentance: “…and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt” (Hebrews 6:6). Repentance is key to spiritual renewal.

Spiritual renewal includes renewed vigor and realigning our thoughts with God’s truth as the bedrock of our lives. God’s promise to renew us through Christ leads us to the green pastures of His forgiveness, grace, and mercy. Our cup overflows with His restoring, renewing love!

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Graduation Prayers and Congratulations Messages

Posted on April 2, 2024April 2, 2024 by Donna Snow

Graduation Day is within sight. Congratulations graduates! It is a culmination of years of work, dedication, and great hope. It’s time to celebrate the hard work of graduating seniors with graduation prayers and congratulations messages.

You may be celebrating a high school graduate, grade school completion, or obtaining a graduate school degree. Usually, greeting cards and heartfelt messages are part of the celebration.

Here are some ideas for a graduation prayer or Christian graduation card message to wish your special young adults a Happy Graduation Day.

Graduation Prayers

Whether the graduate is you, your child, or a friend, here are some prayers that you can offer for each person’s special day.

1. Graduation Prayers for Yourself

Dear Gracious God, You have brought me such a long way! My heart today is overflowing with gratitude for the good work You have done in my life. You have enabled me to make the right choices despite the lack of sleep and given me the encouragement of Jesus. I dedicate this day to You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Dear God, thank you for faithfully walking with me every step of my educational journey. Today marks a new beginning in a wider world and career path. I pray that You open new opportunities along my path that continue to honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

2. Graduation Prayers for Your Child

Dearest Lord, You gave me a precious, perfect gift in this beautiful child. You have given us the gift of family, faith, and love. It has been a long journey to reach graduation and I give You all the glory. Thank you for keeping my child safe and directing his path so beautifully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Beautiful Savior, what a joyous day! Today is one of the proudest moments in my parenting life so far. My child has accomplished so much because You never left her side. Today, we celebrate the goodness of life and bright future that You have laid out for her. In the name of your Son Jesus, Amen.

3. Graduation Prayers for a Friend

Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of this beautiful friendship! Today, I celebrate the great things You have accomplished in her life. As she receives her diploma, remind her that Your Holy Spirit continues to guide her path. It is a joy to celebrate her well-deserved success and Your faithfulness throughout. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Heavenly Father, the spirit of Your love is so strong in my amazing friend. You have given her lots of passion to push through those times of late night studies to accomplish her dreams. I pray that You provide huge success in her new adventures that fulfill her dreams and bring You glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Graduation Congratulations Messages

Extending your warmest congratulations in graduation card messages can become a treasured keepsake to the one who receives it. The right words make all the difference.

Graduation congratulations cards commemorate the monumental occasion of achieving years of hard work and dedication. And God was the biggest part! Here are some messages you can share.

1. Congratulations Messages for Your Child

Today is the beginning of the bright future God has prepared specifically for you. Your hard work and true dedication to Him have made the most positive difference in your life. Keep Jesus close as you strike out on the new journeys ahead! I love you very much. Congratulations Graduate!

I am so proud of you! Today we get to make a big deal over you and your wonderful accomplishments. God has faithfully directed your path and you have remained faithful to Him. Regardless of your next step in life, remember that God walks with you every step of the way. I love you very much!

God has made you an extraordinary person! You have worked so hard to graduate and I am so proud of you. You remained faithful to God and He has blessed you with success. God has given you so many gifts to share with the world. Remember to keep asking His guidance and He will never lead you astray. Congratulations!

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2. Congratulations Messages for a Friend

You did it! Despite a loaded schedule and lots of commitments, you relied on the Lord to see you through. You are a dear friend and an important part of our community. I pray God’s blessings over you as you step out with your diploma in hand. Congratulations!

I am so proud of you! You have wholeheartedly followed God’s direction and accomplished so much. I know that you will be a huge blessing as you step out into this great big world with God’s love and gentleness evident to all. God’s blessings and best wishes as you step out into the world with your diploma!

Congratulations! It has been a joy to keep you in prayer as you worked full-time and also attended school. I realize that must have been a heavy load to carry. God has given you success because you remained faithful to His calling over your life. God bless you as you step out with a diploma in hand!

3. Congratulations Messages for a Pastor

Dear Pastor, congratulations! You followed God’s leading to work towards your doctorate in ministry and He has blessed you with success. You have been such a blessing in my life and the life of our church. I pray that God continues to enlighten your continuum of life-long learning. God bless you!

Dear Pastor, you did it! You have worked so hard to obtain your doctorate in ministry. And along the way, you kept serving our church wholeheartedly. I realize that your load was burdensome at times. Your tenacity and grace under pressure have been an inspiration to me and many others in our church. Congratulations and to God be the glory!

I hope that these prayers and messages will give you a good start to congratulating the graduate in your life!

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Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

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What Does the Bible Say About Sunrise and Sunset?

Posted on April 1, 2024April 1, 2024 by Donna Snow

The Bible has much to say about sunrise and sunset, the sun, and even darkness. Sun and light usually represent goodness. Sunset and darkness often signal warning or even evil.

The first time that I watched the sun rise over the Sea of Galilee, I imagined Peter, John, and the other fishermen seeing a similar sight. It was an unforgettable moment.

Whether we witness sunrise on a cloudless morning or sunset over the waters of the sea, the Lord of Hosts uses the heavens as His canvas.

What Sunrise Symbolizes Biblically

Sunrise in the Bible reveals profound significance. Among other things, it symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and His divine presence.

C.S. Lewis once said, “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”

From the glory of God to physical light, to new beginnings, the Bible offers a wide variety of symbolism regarding sunrises.

1. Sunrise as a New Beginning

The biblical meaning of sunrise usually signifies a new day or new beginning, both spiritually and physically. How many of us feel the hope of God as we start a new day with a blank sin slate?

All of life awakens with a fresh start in the morning light. It brings a sense of universal awe inspired by God’s creations.

“Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in awe of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy” (Psalm 65:8).

The beginning of the day also signifies the cycles of life and nature. The light of dawn and the rising sun often signify a time marker or starting point for a new day or new week.

“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years‘” (Genesis 1:14).

“The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises” (Ecclesiastes 1:5).

2. Sunrise Evokes Worship

When was the last time you intentionally set an alarm to watch a sunrise? When I visited the rim of the Grand Canyon in 2008, I did precisely that.

Grabbing my Bible and journal, I headed to perch on a rock overlooking the Canyon at 5:00 a.m. Words simply fail to describe the sense of awe and splendor I experienced that morning.

The sheer beauty and universal awe of a sunrise inspire us to worship the God who created life. God’s glory is physically present as He finger-paints the light of the morning across the sky. The prophet Isaiah understood this well.

“Therefore in the east give glory to the Lord; exalt the name of the Lord, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea” (Isaiah 24:15, NIV).

“Therefore in the east give glory to the Lord; exalt the name of the Lord, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea” (Isaiah 24:15).

“My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul.Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples” (Psalm 108:1-3).

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3. Sunrise Invites Prayer and Guidance

Even a cursory reading of Scripture reveals that the transition from darkness to light often symbolizes spiritual enlightenment. How many times have you felt a sense of sadness or spiritual darkness, stopped to pray, and received instant relief from the Lord?

As the new light shines each morning, it is wise to pray for God’s presence and great power to guide your day. Here are two of the best Bible verses to pray:

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life” (Psalm 143:8).

“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly” (Psalm 5:3).

Even if a sunrise is cloaked in thick clouds that hide the sun from view, we never doubt that the sun has risen and shines above the clouds. We can count on the bright morning star to appear just like the tender mercy of our God.

4. Reminder of God’s Mercy and Faithfulness

Sunrises are not simply a daily free gift of God; they are hand-painted canvases of divine messages of God’s faithfulness. God did not have to give us sunrises. He wanted to delight us and provide a daily reminder of His faithfulness,

The predictable regularity of sunrise provides a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Even the lamenting prophet understood that God’s love and mercy faithfully arrive with each new day.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, therefore I will hope in him” (Lamentations 3:22-24, ESV).

“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the following morning” (Psalm 30:5).

“For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth” (Psalm 108:4-5).

“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days” (Psalm 90:14).

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5. God’s Victory in the Light of Day

Joshua understood the importance of persevering through the deep darkness of night to celebrate victory in the bright morning. He had the bold faith to even ask God to make the sun stand still!

“At that time Joshua spoke to the Lord in the day when the Lord gave the Amorites over to the sons of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel: “Sun, stand still at Gibeon, and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.”And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies” (Joshua 10:12-13).

How often have you battled an addiction or “terror” through the night? Worry and anxiety are sleep destroyers. Trusting the Lord to bring victory after we have trusted Him and persevered is an extraordinary faith builder.

David understood the need to persevere a full day and through the shadow of death at night, as well.

“David fought them from dusk until the evening of the next day, and none of them got away, except four hundred young men who rode off on camels and fled” (1 Samuel 30:17).

6. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

The most important sunrise in all of human history was when God raised Jesus from the dead so that we have the hope of eternal life with Him.

The disciples thought all was lost as the body of the Lord Jesus was laid in the tomb on Good Friday. But the Son of Man and light of the world did not stay in the grave for long.

“Early on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance” (John 20:1).

“Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?’But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away” (Mark 16:2-4).

Christ Jesus rose from the dead and shone the everlasting light of hope and the good news of eternal liberty from the wages of sin. I have never attended an outdoor Easter sunrise church service outside, but it is on my bucket list!

Are There Sunrises in Heaven?

When our hope in Christ is fulfilled by faith at our earthly death, He will instantly welcome all believers into heaven.

God is light and all light emanates from Him. Consequently, there will not be sunrises or sunsets in heaven.

“There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5, NIV).

After all, we will finally be standing in the presence of the Lord! I don’t know about you, but my eyes will be plastered on Jesus, not looking for any other source of great light.

What Sunset Symbolizes Biblically

Just as the sunrise begins each day afresh, the sunset signifies the end of a season, a life, or a day. It is also a perfect time to reflect on what the Lord has done during each day.

1. Sunsets Inspire Reflection and Worship

If you are reading this at night, what good thing (or several things) did the Lord do for you today? I once heard a friend say, “Thank you, Lord, for counting my blessings because I can’t count that high.” Sunset is a beautiful time for reflection and worship.

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat” (Psalm 19:1-2, 6).

“Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore!From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised!” (Psalm 113:2-3, ESV).

“May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice” (Psalm 141:2).

2. Sunsets Offer Reconciliation

How often have you worked all day and welcomed the setting of the sun after completing your good works that day? As the day declines, we rest from our labor.

We spend time with family or friends as we wind down. It is also a time to settle accounts, so to speak, for that day. A final opportunity to make things right before falling asleep.

“In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27).

“If you take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset” (Exodus 22:6).

“Pay them their wages each day before sunset, because they are poor and are counting on it. Otherwise they may cry to the Lord against you, and you will be guilty of sin” (Deuteronomy 24:15).

3. Evening Offers Rest

Scripture tells us that God never sleeps: “Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleep” (Psalm 121:4, NLT).

However, the Lord gives us sleep because He knows that we need it. Rest is vital! And we can sleep peacefully knowing that God is ever watchful over us.

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety” (Psalm 4:8).

“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul” (Psalm 23:1-3a).

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him” (Psalm 91:1-2).

4. Evening Offers Peace and Restoration

During Jesus’ three years of public ministry, His work never ceased. In fact, it often continued through the night until the next day.

“At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them” (Luke 4:40).

What a beautiful example for Christians to follow! Just because the sun has set does not mean our calling to share the Good News clocks out. Time is short.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field’” (Matthew 9:37-38).

5. Significant Biblical Events After Sunset

Whether your day was wonderful or heartbreaking, the Lord walked through every moment with you. He never left you alone. He watches, moves, and works after the sun sets each day.

Throughout the Bible, some of the most significant events took place after the sun had set.

Jesus and the disciples celebrated the Passover Meal in the Upper Room. (Mark 14:16-18)
Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. (John 18)
Jesus calmed the night storm that threatened to capsize the disciples’ boat. (Mark 4:35-41)
During Jesus’ ministry, he would heal people during the day and spend the night in prayer with His Father. (Luke 21:36-38)
The resurrected Jesus first appeared to the disciples at night. (John 20:19-10)

“From the rising of the sun to the place of its setting people may know there is none besides me. I am the Lord, and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:6).

Sunrises and sunsets are gifts from God. Through them, we gain a glimpse of His artistic beauty that we will one day experience for all eternity.

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About the Author

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Brimstone and Fire – What is the Biblical Meaning?

Posted on March 28, 2024March 28, 2024 by Donna Snow

Chances are you have heard the term “fire and brimstone.” However, this well-known phenomenon only appears fourteen times in the Bible.

The significance of God’s judgment in connection with brimstone and fire is worthy of a more in-depth understanding.

Definition of Brimstone

Brimstone (sulfur) is a well-known simple mineral substance, crystalline, easily melted, and very inflammable. The origin of the word brimstone comes from how sulfur was referred to in ancient times. Scientists have simply assigned it a proper scientific name.

When burning, brimstone (sulfur) emits blue flames and a peculiar suffocating odor resembling rotten eggs. It is found in great abundance near volcanoes.

The soil around the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah abounded in sulfur and bitumen. The inflammability of both substances (the quality of being easily ignited and burning rapidly) is high. In other words, you don’t want to walk around with a torch near either substance!

Where is Brimstone Found?

According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, brimstone (sulfur) existed in Palestine in early times. It was known by most of the ancient nations as a combustible substance. In the vicinity of the Dead Sea, deposits of sulphur are still being formed along its shores.

During some of the disastrous earthquakes that took place in this part of the world, hot lava likely ignited bitumen along with sulfer. Such a fireworks display added to the horrors of an earthquake’s destruction caused by burning pitch and brimstone.

In 1896, German geologist Max Blanckenhorn proposed a verifiable hypothesis. He believed that the combustible formation was due to the action of bituminous matter upon crystals of gypsum. Both substances are found in our present time associated with each other in the cities of the plain.

[Join me on my next Holy Land tour here.]

Modern Scientific Facts About Brimstone

Scientists have found that the vast majority of brimstone (sulfer) dwells deep in the Earth’s core.

Researchers estimate that the Earth’s core contains 10 times the amount of sulfur than found on its surface.

Confirming the presence of lighter elements, like sulfur, in the core, provides vital information. Temperatures, pressures, and oxygen content in the Earth’s mantle surrounds the core and separates sulfer from the crust on which we walk.

Figurative Use of Brimstone

Why are we so captivated by the term “fire and brimstone”? The figurative use of brimstone symbolizes God’s punishment, destruction, and terrible suffering of the unfaithful.

The figurative use of the word brimstone is associated with the wrath of God’s judgment. It references being cast into a lake of fire, burning wind, and great hailstones of a metaphorical “rain of fire.” That is the stuff of movies!

However, God’s divine judgments are anything but Hollywood’s visual effects. God’s wrath is a consuming fire that wiped out inhabitants of the cities of old with inextinguishable flames.

Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

Sodom and Gomorrah are two cities mentioned in the Bible that were destroyed for their wickedness and sinfulness. The Book of Genesis states: “Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground” (Genesis 19:24-25, KJV).

God sent angels to the cities that were destined for destruction. Lot invited the angels into his home but a group of people surrounded the house. They demanded that Lot release them so that the villagers could have their way with them. Lot refused and protected the men, even offering his virgin daughters in their place.

Having confirmed the iniquity and destruction of these cities, the angels told Lot and his family to flee at daybreak. They were instructed not look back during the overthrow of Sodom. Lot’s wife could not resist throwing a backward glance at her home and was turned into a pillar of salt.

Deuteronomy 29:23 reveals: “The whole land burned out with brimstone and salt, nothing sown and nothing growing, where no plant can sprout, an overthrow like that of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, which the Lord overthrew in his anger and wrath.”

Brimstone in the Old Testament

Most occurrences of brimstone (accompanied by fire and burning) appear in the Old Testament.

“For a burning place has long been prepared; indeed, for the king it is made ready, its pyre made deep and wide, with fire and wood in abundance; the breath of the Lord, like a stream of sulfur, doth kindle it” (Isaiah 30:33).

Isaiah 34:9: “And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch.” Even though that is the King James translation of the Bible, eternal punishment comes through loud and clear.

Psalm 11:6: “Let him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup.”

Looking at Isaiah 34:9 in the King James Bible, fire and brimstone are combined to depict eternal damnation. “And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch.”

Such passages like Ezekiel 38:22 contain sobering visuals of the power of God’s punishment and destruction: “With pestilence and bloodshed I will enter into judgment with him, and I will rain upon him and his hordes and the many peoples who are with him torrential rains and hailstones, fire and sulfur.”

Brimstone in the New Testament

Three times in the Book of Revelation, fire and brimstone are used to express the idea of excruciating torment.

“And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, he also will drink the wine of God’s wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb” (Revelation 14:9-10, ESV).

“And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur” (Revelation 19:20, ESV).

“And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Revelation 20:10, ESV).

The inhabitants of the land will experience the horrible tempest of burning sulfur (or rain coals). If the deposits caught fire it would melt and run in a stream of brimstone down the ravines. It would have spread suffocating fumes (such as come from the ordinary brimstone match).

Brimstone in our Modern Day

Sulfur is an element boasting a bright yellow color that is abundant in nature even today. A nonmetal, sulfur is the 10th most abundant element in the universe, according to the Jefferson National Linear Accelerator Laboratory.

Sulfur compounds called “mercaptans” give skunks their defensive odor. Rotten eggs and stink bombs get their distinctive aroma because of hydrogen sulfide.

Today, the most common use of sulfur is in the manufacture of sulfuric acid. That acid goes into fertilizers, batteries, and cleaners. It’s also used to refine oil and in processing ores.

Related post: The Mandela Effect and the Bible

Our Hope in Christ

Destruction from the breath of Jehovah is NOT the destiny of those who place their hope in Christ. The love of God provided a way out of eternal destruction by sending Jesus to die for our sins.

There is good news! Salvation is a beautiful gift of God. Salvation is given to all those who believe by faith that Jesus is the Son of God. God desires every name to be written in the Book of Life because the grace of God reigns supreme.

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About the Author

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25 Powerful Bible Verses and Prayers for Safe Travel

Posted on March 27, 2024March 27, 2024 by Donna Snow

I love to travel and see this great big world that God created. My Bible is always within reach. Over the decades, I have compiled several Bible verses and prayers for safe travel.

So whether you are loading up the travel trailer or setting off to the far side of the sea on your next trip, keeping God’s Word close reduces travel anxiety. After all, the Spirit of the Lord goes with you!

Bible Verses to Read When Traveling
A Psalm for Traveling
Scripture Prayers for Safe Travel
Short Godly Travel Quotes

Bible Verses to Read When Traveling

My favorite travel moments happen when I connect what I see with the good news in Scripture verses. Scripture references often increase my own understanding of various locations, especially in a foreign country. Bible verses and prayers for safe travel put our hearts and minds at ease.

Here are some of my favorite travel Bible verses organized by category for easy reference. Remember, the Lord keeps you close at all times.

1. God’s Protection

You are never without God’s strong right hand and faithful presence. Such a beautiful truth strengthens a man’s heart and a woman’s steps to be brave!

1) Luke 4:10 – “He will command His angels concerning you to guard you carefully.”

2) Proverbs 3:23-24 – “Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.”

3) Psalm 121:7-8 – “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

4) Psalm 91:2, 4 – “This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust him. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day.”

God's protection; Bible verses and prayers for safe travel

2. Covenant of Peace

If you are traveling to a new place that is unfamiliar to you, your peace of mind may take a hit. You may not even speak the local language. The Apostle Paul certainly understood those challenges.

Again, Bible verses and prayers for safe travel calm anxiety. Let these words of the Lord find a hiding place in your heart.

5) Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) – “Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

6) John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

7) Romans 12:18 – “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

8) Ephesians 2:14 – “For He himself is our peace.”

9) Philippians 4:7 – “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

10) Colossians 3:15 – “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.”

11) 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

Joshua 1:9; Bible verses and prayers for safe travel

3. Good Success

How we define a travel “success” varies. I deem a trip successful when three criteria are met:

I saw new destinations in God’s creation;
I met new people; and
I learned many new things that gave me a greater appreciation of God and His hand over my life.

Regardless of how you define a successful trip, here are a few words to the faith and faithful to keep close.

12) Psalm 23:3 – “He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.”

13) Proverbs 16:9 – “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”

14) Proverbs 3:3-5 – “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.”

A Psalm for Traveling

The Psalms in God’s holy Word contain extraordinary words of faith to guide believers. I keep Psalm 139 close at hand as I travel. When God is your comfort zone, the whole earth is your oyster. And that is no little thing!

15) Psalm 139:3-10 (NLT) – “You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do.You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there.If I ride the wings of the dawn, if I dwell by the farthest oceans,even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.”

16) Psalm 139:3-10 (ESV) – “You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in the depths of the earth, you are there!If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.”

Bible verses and prayers for safe travel

Scripture Prayers for Safe Travel

Praying daily keeps the Word of God and God’s love vibrant as you enjoy God’s creation where you travel. His Holy Spirit inside of you is the voice of the Lord directing you the right way.

17) Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity and joy to travel in this season of my life. You have kept me and my loved ones safe, and I am grateful. Allow me to cherish the life of every living thing on my journey and return me home safely. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

18) Lord, I am traveling where You have opened the door. Erase any second thoughts and let me trust in You. I am safe with you. I do not travel alone for your hand is upon me. Your protection is divine. In front and behind You encircle my life. For I am yours, and you are mine. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

19) O King of my heart, I travel knowing that the eyes of the Lord are upon me. Words of the faith You have given me are hidden in my heart. I pray that the glory of the Lord goes before me so that I can shine Your light wherever I go. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

travel; Bible verses and prayers for safe travel — ^{Join me on my next Holy Land tour here.}

Short Godly Travel Quotes

Reading is a huge part of traveling – especially in planes, cars, and trains. It is helpful to keep the Great Commission in mind all the days of your life as you travel.

Here are some of my favorite thought-provoking travel quotes and words of faith that I have discovered over the years.

20) “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” ― Marcel Proust

21) “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.”― Andre Gide, French explorer

22) “The safest place in the world is in the will of God.” ― Unknown

23) “Great things never came from comfort zones.” ― Neil Strauss

24) “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” ― Robert Frost

25) “It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” ― Ursula K. Le Guin

Keeping Bible verses and prayers for safe travel nearby is simply the best way to travel. God bless your journeys!

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About the Author

Donna is a sought-after speaker, multi-published author, avid traveler, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read about her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.}

Contents:

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

One Year in the Psalms

Historical Overview One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Read the Bible at Your Own Pace

Read the Bible in 90 Days

90-Day Chronological Bible Reading Plan

Consider Journaling

Bottom Line

​Contents:

Good Bible Verse for Morning

Wisdom Verses to Start the Day

Comfort Verses to Start the Day

Encouragement Bible Verses

Morning Verses to Start the Day

Scripture for Strength

Inspirational Bible Verse for Today

The Lord’s Great Love Verses

Peace of God Scriptures

Morning Verses for Prayer

Contents

Rubies, a Precious Jewel

Folklore Around Rubies

Rubies in the Bible

1. A Virtuous Woman

2. Value of Wisdom

3. A Precious Stone

Value of Rubies

Bottom Line

Contents

Ziz: An Ancient Road in the Bible

Ziz and the High Priest’s Breastplate

Ziz in Jewish Mythology

Bottom Line

Contents

Who was Jacob?

Overview of Jacob’s Life

Jacob’s Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry

Jacob’s Marriage and Fatherhood

1. Jacob’s Marriages to Leah and Rachel

2. Jacob Wrestles with God

3. Jacob’s Children

Twelve Tribes of Israel

1: Reuben

2, 3: Simeon and Levi

​4: Judah

5. Zebulun

6. Issachar

7. Dan

8. Gad

9. Asher

10. Naphtali

11. Joseph

12. Benjamin

The Lineage of Jesus

The Rest of Jacob’s Life

What Does Restore Mean Biblically?

Tangible Restoration

Figurative Restoration

1. Spiritual Restoration

2. Eschatological Restoration

What Does Renew Mean Biblically?

What is Spiritual Renewal?

Graduation Prayers

1. Graduation Prayers for Yourself

2. Graduation Prayers for Your Child

3. Graduation Prayers for a Friend

Graduation Congratulations Messages

1. Congratulations Messages for Your Child

2. Congratulations Messages for a Friend

3. Congratulations Messages for a Pastor

What Sunrise Symbolizes Biblically

1. Sunrise as a New Beginning

2. Sunrise Evokes Worship

3. Sunrise Invites Prayer and Guidance

4. Reminder of God’s Mercy and Faithfulness

5. God’s Victory in the Light of Day

6. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Are There Sunrises in Heaven?

What Sunset Symbolizes Biblically

Contents:

4: Judah