Not in itself Wealth can be the source of great blessing when used properly. But money is indeed the world’s preeminent symbol of success and, as such, a constant threat to the soul’s primary loyalty. As evidence of this, we no longer question these “givens” about modern life.
Continue reading IS WEALTH IMMORAL?
Jacob entered the world grasping-literally. The secondborn of twin boys, Jacob started his life journey by grasping his brother Esau’s heel. The symbolism is difficult to ignore. Jacob wanted what was his-and then some.
Continue reading MEN OF THE BIBLE (JACOB “THE QUEST FOR RECONCILIATION”)
The mark of Cain wasn’t a curse: it was a blessing. God used it to protect Cain: “The LORD put a mark on Cain to warn anyone who might try to kill him” (Genesis 4:15).
Continue reading THE MARK OF CAIN
The gracious and free act of God by which He calls those who become part of His kingdom and special beneficiaries of His love and blessings (2 Pet 1:10). The Bible describes the concept of election in three distinct ways. Election sometimes refers to the choice of Israel and the
Continue reading DEFINITION OF THE DAY (ELECTION)
Garments are used as biblical symbols in almost as many ways as there are styles of clothing. Clothes are used as expression of socioeconomics status, spiritual well-being, and emotional state. They can protect, conceal, or display an inner reality of the wearer. They can last for a long time or wear out quickly (Neh 9:21; Matt 6:19). They can consist of leaves (Gen 3:7), animal skin (Gen 3:21; Matt 3:4), rags (Isa 64:6), pure white linen (Dan 7:9; Rev 19:14), or anything in between. They can be literal or figurative. Yet despite al this variety, the use of clothing as a symbol falls into a few set patterns that yield a wealth of insight. Continue reading SIGNS AND SYMBOLS OF THE BIBLE (CLOTHING)
Elizabeth, mentioned only in Luke’s Gospel, was married to a priest named Zechariah. “Both were righteous in God’s sight, living without blame according to all the commands and requirements of the Lord” (Luke 1:6).
Yet in a culture where children were viewed as a primary evidence of God’s blessing, they were also childless. Elizabeth was unable to conceive. This barrenness was a source of deep disgrace to her (Luke 1:25). Only those who’ve suffered through fertility issues can fully appreciate the sting of all those unanswered prayers, the piercing pain of an empty nursery. Since Elizabeth and Zechariah “were well along in year” (Luke 1:7), it’s not unreasonable to assume that they had given up the hope of ever becoming parents. Continue reading WOMAN OF THE DAY (ELIXABETH: THE MOTHER OF JOHN THE BAPTIST)
The Bible depicts Barak, a military leader during the time of the judges in Israel, as a great man of faith-so great that he is mentioned by name in the Faith Hall of Fame in Hebrews 11 (v32). Continue reading MEN OF THE BIBLE (BARAK: CLAIMING THE FULL BLESSING)
Light was the first thing created and among the first words spoken by God that were written in Scripture: “Let there be light!” (Gen 1:3). As the first created thing and something necessary for life, light holds primary significance in the Bible. Throughout Scripture, light imagery is consistently used to symbolize life itself, particularly life lived in a way that pleases God. The psalm writer praises God, saying, “You have rescued me from death. You have kept my feet from stumbling so that I could walk in your presence,