At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 8/16

Day 1: 1 Samuel 19:1-17
Jonathan was brave to speak up for David when Saul was looking to kill him. Even though Jonathan was aware that Saul was capable of murderous outbursts and foolish thinking, Jonathan called his father not to sin (4). Michal, David’s wife, also helped David in the face of danger from Saul: her father. They chose not to take the easy way, but to do what was right. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to follow the easy road instead of the right road? Ask God to help you follow Him.

Day 2: 1 Samuel 19:18-24
We have already seen God’s spiritual power many times in 1 Samuel. He has sent and removed his Holy Spirit. And He has sent evil spirits to do his will. Here we see God powerfully working as the Spirit of God came powerfully on Saul’s messengers and then on Saul. This is a good reminder that God is ultimately always in control. Yes, Saul was a bad king with murderous intent, yet God was still able to make Saul into a prophet. And just like God was in control of Saul’s life, He is in control of our lives as well. Thank God for how He perfectly works and leads us. 

Day 3: 1 Samuel 20:1-23
Though the situation was bad, Jonathan and David had not lost hope. They understood that God could open the door for David to return to his old life, or that God could send him on to a new chapter. And they would trust God either way. And through this process Jonathan was willing to risk his own life to help David. Why? Because he loved David “as he loved his own soul” (17). Ask God to help you to love those He has given to you as you love your own soul. And ask Him to help you trust his plans.

Day 4: 1 Samuel 20:24-34
In these few short verses, Saul insults his son, tempts his son, and then tries to kill his son. All of these happen in his anger (30). Saul was a bad person, and his anger amplified and magnified his evils. We too, even as born-again believers, battle against our own flesh and against the devil. And we can also more easily fall into sinful words and actions when we are angry. Ask God to help you to rightly control your emotions so that you can honor Him and love those He has given to you. 

Day 5: 1 Samuel 20:35-42
Jonathan could have been intimidated by his father so that he didn’t follow through on what he had promised to David. It would have been easy for him to say that the situation had changed and that it was no longer wise for him to help David. However, he was honorable and brave. He didn’t let Saul’s angry sins lead him to sin in fear. Instead, he boldly carried out the plan and honored the promise that he had made with David. Ask God to help you to live a holy and pleasing life regardless of the challenges or dangers. 

Catechism Connection: 42
“The summary of the ten commandments is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves” (WSC 42). This is the kind of life that we see Jonathan living. Even in difficult situations, he is seeking to love the Lord and love his neighbor, even at great cost to himself. We should look to live this way too. Pray that He would help you love as He has loved you.

Monthly Memory: John 3:3
Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 8/9

Day 1: 1 Samuel 17:1-27
David experienced a great deal of change in this one day. He started out by leaving his sheep with a keeper. Then he brought food to the battlefield and ran to meet his brothers. There, he heard Goliath. It is worth noting that David heard Goliath’s evil words and focused on that. He was not focused on Goliath’s scary size like everyone else. Israel’s army thought, “Wow, this guy is big!” But David thought, who is this man “that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (26). Do you trust that God is bigger than any enemy? Do you care about his glory and his name like David did? Pray that God would give you faith in his power and zeal for his name.

Day 2: 1 Samuel 17:28-39
David’s first obstacle in facing Goliath was actually his own brother. Sometimes challenges and barriers come from within. His next barrier was Saul telling him that he was “not able” to fight his enemy. Sometimes our barriers come from above. But God had been preparing David for this day. David said, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine” (37). Ask God to help you trust Him in the face of barriers in your own life.

Day 3: 1 Samuel 17:40-58
Goliath was imposing and his words were menacing, but David knew something crucial. And he shared it with Goliath, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (45). This battle would be won by God’s power. Praise the Lord because He always wins.

Day 4: 1 Samuel 18:1-16
David had succeeded by faith where Saul had cowering in fear. But David did not let this lead to pride. He continued to serve Saul faithfully: “David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him” (5). David was succeeding for Saul, but Saul was still jealous. Twice Saul attempted to kill David (11). Why? “Saul was afraid of David because the Lord was with him but had departed from Saul” (12). In David, Saul was reminded of his own failures and the consequences of his sins. In the face of all this, David—who had been anointed king by Samuel—continued to humbly serve. Ask God to make you humble like David.

Day 5: 1 Samuel 18:17-30
David was Saul’s most faithful servant. But Saul was always plotting to try to get David killed. This didn’t work because God’s plans would not bend to Saul’s plans. So David continued to succeed in all he did. Instead of coming to love and respect David for his faith and humility, “Saul saw and knew that the Lord was with David, and… Saul was even more afraid of David. So Saul was David's enemy continually” (28-29). David’s faithfulness did not make him immune to troubles. However, faithfulness was worth it. Pray that God would help you to see that faithful obedience is always worth it.

Catechism Connection: 5
Life is full of problems. Enemies like Goliath and Saul, Satan and sin are all around. But God is here too. And He is the “only one… living and true God” (WSC 5). He has no rivals. He cannot be defeated. And He is for us.

Monthly Memory: John 3:3
Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 8/2

Day 1: 1 Samuel 15:1-12
Saul was given a clear task from God. There was no question about what he was commanded to do. But instead of doing what God commanded, Saul did what he thought was best. This is the same struggle that we experience today. There are times when God’s clear teaching and command is different from what we would decide on our own. So what do we do? Those of us who know and love the Lord must strive, by the power of the Spirit, to obey. Ask God to help you follow Him always.

Day 2: 1 Samuel 15:13-23
“The Lord sent you on a mission.” Those are Samuel’s words to Saul in verse 18, but Saul had not obeyed. He tried to disguise his sin by saying that he had kept the best animals to sacrifice to Samuel’s God. This is telling. Even in his lie, he doesn’t claim God as his own. God is clear, then and now, that “to obey is better than sacrifice” (22). How can we please God today? Hear his voice and respond by doing what He says. God has not given us riddles and hints. Instead, He has given us his clear Word for our good (see Ps 19).

Day 3: 1 Samuel 15:24-35
Sin has consequences. Samuel told Saul, “You have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you from being king over Israel” (26). As believers, we can be confident and joyful that Christ has paid the price for all of our sins. However, we must still recognize that our sins can still hurt relationships, break trust, and lead to pain. Jesus saves sinners. And the Spirit gives those He saves the power to live lives that are holy and pleasing in his sight. Ask God to help you take your sin seriously and to kill it.
Day 4: 1 Samuel 16:1-12
Samuel was hurt by Saul’s sin, but God had a plan. God sent the prophet to anoint a new king. God’s plans never fail. He is never surprised. And his plans overcome our failures and lead to hope and joy. Neither Jesse nor Samuel saw a king in young David. Saul had seemed kingly because he was tall on the outside, but “the Lord looks on the heart” (7). God had been preparing David to shepherd the people. Ask God to be working in your life to make you into a person perfectly prepared for the tasks that He will assign to you.

Day 5: 1 Samuel 16:13-23
The Spirit of God descended on David (13), but He left Saul (14). And the Holy Spirit had been working powerfully in David’s life. Look at how he is described: “Skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him”(18). Isn’t this how we want to be known? Ask God to work in your life and in those in your family to grow you into a capable, courageous person of character.

Catechism Connection: 4, 7
1 Samuel 15 ends saying, “The Lord regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel” (35). This can make people wonder if God made a mistake that He came to regret. However, this is not what is meant. Earlier in this same chapter, we see that God “will not lie or have regret, for he is not a man, that he should have regret” (29). God is “unchangeable in his being” (WSC 4) and “he has foreordained everything that ever happens” (7). He never makes a mistake. And you can be sure of that.

Monthly Memory: John 3:3
Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

In just a few weeks, we'll start a Confirmation Class for some of our students. This post explains what Confirmation Class is, why we do it, and what the process looks like. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions.

1. What Is Confirmation Class?

Confirmation Class is the intentional path that young people in our church take toward full membership in our local church. Confirmed members:
a) have been baptized,
b) have made a public profession of faith in Christ,
c) have had their membership confirmed by the Session, and
d) are entitled to participate in the Church by voting in meetings of the congregation.

Our class is a multi-step process through which young people are reintroduced to core biblical teaching about salvation and the church with the goal of helping them make an authentic profession of their own faith. In fact, at the end of this process, those who are followers of Christ will be able to declare their faith to the Session and the congregation.

2. Why Do We Confirmation Class?

To answer simply: we want to intentionally call our young people to know and follow Jesus. We want to give them the best opportunity to take hold of the gospel, express their allegiance to Christ, and to publicly state their desire to live with and for Him.

It is true that professing faith in front of church leaders and the congregation can be scary. It is normal and, in many ways, right to be nervous about doing this. Following Jesus is a serious commitment and we must count the cost. However, it is also wonderful to be given the chance to declare a commitment to the gospel in front of the church because it prepares us well to share the power of God with others in our lives.

And, we don’t leave students on their own to wrestle through this process. We want them to experience meaningful discipleship-relationships in the church. Therefore, each student will be connected to an elder-mentor to help them consider biblical truth and express what they believe. These intergenerational connections can be valuable in knowing the church beyond youth-group and can often become meaningful friendships.

3. What is the Process of our Confirmation Class?

• Welcome Dinner for the students (parents are also invited) on August 23 from 5-7pm.
• Classes for students will meet on August 30, September 13, 20, 27 (Sundays) at 9am.
• Mini-Retreat to polish statements of faith and to practice sharing. This is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of October 18.
• Observe how the members work together in the church during Committee Night on October 19.

Once these steps are complete, we will set up a time for students to make their profession of faith to the Session and the congregation. 

This is an exciting process. We have a great God and we have the Good News. Please let me know if your child will participate. And again, feel free to reach out to me with any questions. I am here to help.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 7/26

Day 1: Verses 1-15
Saul’s son Jonathan was a man of faith. He trusted in the Lord and believed that the same God who had delivered the people from the Egyptians and Moabites could deliver them from the Philistines. Jonathan said, “It may be that the Lord will work for us, for nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few” (6). Do you believe this? Ask God to help you live in light of the truth that nothing can hinder the Lord from saving!

Day 2: Verses 16-23
Two men trusted that God could work. And the Lord had done something amazing in giving them victory over twenty. But God was just getting started. Like a fuse being lit, Jonathan’s act of faith ignited God’s mighty victory over the enemy. Two men were faithful and it rallied the stalled, the fleeing, and the traitors. “So the Lord saved Israel that day” (23). Your faith can also be used by God to make a massive impact on those who are influenced by you. Ask God to help you live in a way that, by his power, brings about faith and hope in others. 

Day 3: Verses 24-34
Here we see Saul unwisely seeking a false kind of godliness. The Lord had not asked Saul to deny food to his army. And in the end, it led to them being less effective, to discourage his son, and to tempt the army to sin by eating meat with the blood in it. It is not wise or godly to simply do religious looking things. We must do as God commands. Ask God to give you wisdom to know how to follow Him faithfully.  

Day 4: Verses 35-46
Saul continued to try to act godly without really trusting in the Lord. He built an altar and asked God to speak. But God was silent. The Lord is not impressed when we use Him to get what we want. The Lord was not a good-luck charm for Saul. The Lord was not a genie obeying the wishes of Saul. And Saul’s foolishness led to him even saying that he would strike down Jonathan, the faithful man, in response to his unwise oath. But the people spoke up and stopped the king. Pray that God would help you to follow Him because He is worthy, not because He can serve you. And ask Him to make you brave to stand up for what is right, even if it means standing up to the king. 

Day 5: Verses 47-52
Saul was faithless, but God remained faithful. God is so good. He didn’t turn his back on his people because King Saul had turned his back on God. The Lord gave more than the people deserved. He was gracious. And He remains gracious. By grace we are saved and by grace we stand. Praise the Lord for his grace today. 

Catechism Connection: 42
Saul was missing the core of what it means to follow the Lord: love. WSC 42 says, “The summary of the ten commandments is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.” Saul’s failures should be a stern warning to each of us to build our lives around loving the Lord.

Monthly Memory: Galatians 3:7
Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 7/19

Day 1: Verses 1-4
It took a few years, but conflict was escalating and the people were called out of their homes to prepare for war. This was the beginning of a new reality. Israel had never had an earthly king commanding them to come at his command before. Just as Samuel had warned them a few chapters earlier, they were now subject to the commands of a king; that was the life they had chosen. Our choices have real consequences in our lives. Ask God to help you make wise choices so that the consequences of those choices are blessings rather than burdens. 

Day 2: Verses 5-7
The Philistines assembled a massive army and the people of Israel knew they were in trouble. In fact, many of them fled or hid in the rocks. The people wanted a king to fight for them. They thought that this king would solve their problems. However, Saul was unable. No earthly king could fill the Lord’s shoes. In our lives, we also need to be careful not to expect people to do what only God can do. Ask God to help you not seek ultimate meaning, satisfaction, joy, or hope in anyone other than Him. 

Day 3: Verses 8-14
In the previous chapter—1 Samuel 12—Saul and the people were told that their success was tied to their trust in the Lord. Samuel told them, “If both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the Lord your God, it will be well. But if you… rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then the hand of the Lord will be against you and your king” (12:14-15). And sadly, one chapter later, Saul chose to follow the people instead of following the Lord. And so God rejected him as king. Ask God to help to desire deeply to fear and follow Him alone.

Day 4: Verses 15-18
Saul’s hurried sacrifice had not made things better. Instead, the king was rebuked and the Philistines sent out raiding parties. Saul had tried to follow God in his own way. Or, said differently, Saul had tried to fit following the Lord into his own priorities. Part of having the Lord as our King means that we put his desires and priorities first. It can be difficult to wait. It can be hard to choose his ways when they don’t seem best to us. However, He is the King and, therefore, He must be obeyed. And the truth is: his ways are always best. 

Day 5: Verses 19-25
A battle was approaching, but the people of Israel had no real weapons. The Philistines had taken away the ability of Saul’s army to make swords or to sharpen their spears. The situation looked hopeless. The Philistines had a bigger, better equipped army. And the Israelites were on the run before the fighting even started. However, God’s people still had the key to victory. They still had the Lord. Would they turn to Him and act in faith For them, and for us, real victory only comes from trust in the Lord. 

Catechism Connection: 103
Obedience can be hard. Sometimes we feel pressure to go our own way. Sometimes fear calls for us to do what we think makes sense instead of pursuing obedience. That is part of why we pray the Lord’s Prayer. We ask that God’s will would be done on earth, so that He, “by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things, as the angels do in heaven” WSC 103).

Monthly Memory: Galatians 3:7
Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 7/12

Day 1: Verses 1-5
Samuel had lived a godly life. He had been fair to the people and he had done what was right. So at the end of his life, no one could accuse him of sin or evil. His character was obvious to the people of Israel. Still today, there is great value in living in a godly way. First, if pleases the Lord. Additionally, living honestly frees people up from unnecessary conflicts or disagreements. It is always right to do what is right. And it gives freedom. Ask God to help you live in a way that reflects his character.

Day 2: Verses 6-13
Samuel took this opportunity near the end of his life to “plead with [the people] … about “all the righteous deeds of the Lord” (7). And God’s righteous deeds were highlighted against the backdrop of the consistent unfaithfulness of his people. God is faithful even when we are not. This is part of what makes the Good News so good: we are not saved because we did something for God, we are saved because of what He has done for us. He pursues sinful people and restores them. Praise God for the work of Jesus in pursuing and saving sinners like us.

Day 3: Verses 14-15
For those who belong to the Lord, it is crucial to know that obedience leads to joy, but disobedience leads to destruction. God’s hand is ready to bless those who are running after Him. But He is also willing to livingly discipline his children when they get off track. And this discipline is loving. God doesn’t just leave us alone to struggle in our sin. He works in our lives to make our sin unbearable and undesirable so that we will turn back to Him. This is for our good and joy.

Day 4: Verses 16-18
Here Samuel wants the people to see that their true King—the Lord Himself—is still willing and able to work mightily in the world. In response to Samuel’s prayer, God sent a mighty storm at a time when the people didn’t expect to see it. And they were afraid. They understood that they had traded their heavenly King for a limited worldly one. We all make foolish trades like this, and God can still redeem our back choices. Repent before God for your sinful trades and ask Him to help you follow Him.

Day 5: Verses 19-25
What should you do when you sin? “Do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty” (20-21). Chase after Him and give up on worthless things. Why? “The Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself” (22). If you have been saved by grace through faith, He will never forsake you. He has made you a part of a people for Himself. Praise God!

Catechism Connection: 87
God, in his kindness, makes us aware of our sin. And, by his grace, He calls us to turn back to Him. WSC 87 explains that is looks like this: “Repentance that leads to life is a saving grace by which a sinner, out of a true sense of his sin and awareness of the mercy of God in Christ, turns from it to God with grief and hatred of his sin, purposing and working constantly for a new obedience.”

Monthly Memory: Galatians 3:7
Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 7/5

Day 1: Galatians 1:1-10
Paul wrote the letter to the Galatians because he was shocked at how quickly they had turned away from the gospel (6-7). Just as Saul turned from the Lord in 1 Samuel, this New Testament church was drifting away. We live in an “evil age” (4) with people who want to distort the gospel (7), and we often struggle with seeking to please people instead of God (10). Ask God to help you clearly see the ways that you are tempted to abandon his Word and ways. And ask his Spirit to help you walk worthy of the gospel He has given. 

Day 2: Galatians 1:11-24
The gospel is God’s power to save and change us. Paul was utterly transformed by God’s power. He went from a church-destroyer to a church-planter (23). And the people praised God because of Him (24). If we are to faithfully follow Him, we need to grasp the truth that following Jesus is never an addition to our old life; it is something totally new. We have a new family, a new King, a new mission, a new power, and a new joy. This means that leaning back into who we used to be is not only foolish, but unhelpful to those around us. Ask God to help you live so that people “glorify God because of [you]” (1:24).

Day 3: Galatians 2:1-10
Part of the reason that we can’t live to please others is that the church can include “false brothers” (2:4). We always want to love our neighbor, but we must also do this in a way that aligns with loving the Lord with our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:29-31). People must never become our gods. Sometimes holiness and godliness will offend. This does not make them less holy or godly; it makes them a more costly act of worship.

Day 4: Galatians 2:11-14
Even pillars like Peter can crumble under pressure. This should be a warning to all of us: we are always capable of sin and error. We are not saved because we are wise or capable, but by grace alone. And when we sin, we must lean on grace all the more. We must ask God to forgive us, restore us, and continue to grow us into his likeness. Ask God to help you see your own sins and failures, and ask Him to help you respond with repentance and renewed dependence on Him. 

Day 5: Galatians 2:15-21
We are called to holy lives characterized by good works. But can this kind of living save us? No, “by works of the law no one will be justified” (2:16). The gospel is that God saves sinners. We must say, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (2:20). It is good to try hard, but trying can’t save us. It is good to do good things, but doing good can’t save us. We must let go of self-reliance and trust in the Lord to do his saving work. Ask Him to renew your love for Him and understanding of the gospel today.

Catechism Connection: 20
God did not save us because we are great. He saved us because He is great: “Out of his mere good pleasure, from all eternity, God chose some for everlasting life, and he entered into a covenant of grace to deliver them out of their state of sin and misery and to bring them into a state of salvation by a redeemer” (WSC 20). Praise Him for his mighty gospel-power! Praise Him for our Redeemer!

Monthly Memory: Galatians 3:7
Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 6/28

Day 1: 1 Samuel 11:12-15
In many ways, Saul started his reign as king of Israel with wisdom and obedience. In these verses, we read about Saul’s first battle after becoming king—it was a success! And, sadly, it might have been the high point of his leadership. We will continue in 1 Samuel in a few weeks, and we will see Saul struggle, fail, and fall. But before turning there, let’s pause here to consider our own lives and ask the Lord to help us press on faithfully. To help us do that, we will spend the rest of this week in 1 Timothy 4.

Day 2: 1 Timothy 4:1-5
We should be sad, but not surprised, when people turn away from the Lord. This passage lists many different ways that this can look, but I think it is worth it to look closely at two categories: a seared conscience so that we accept what is wrong (2) and an unhealthy, unwise rejection of what is good and right (3). We can all be tempted from the inside or conditioned from the outside to see the world differently than God sees it. If God calls something evil or wrong, we must agree. It is time to scrape the callouses off of our conscience and agree. And if God calls something good, we must not call it wrong or evil. In other words, we need to ask God to help us be a people who know his Word and are willing to submit ourselves to it. 

Day 3: 1 Timothy 4:6-10
Do you “train yourself for godliness” (7)? This training is the mission of your life. We grow strong through exercise. We gain knowledge through study. Likewise, we gain godliness through the training program of the Holy Spirit. Would an observer of your life say that you are actively training for godliness?

Day 4: 1 Timothy 4:11-14
We are called to “set the believers an example” of what it looks like to follow Christ. And this must touch every area of our lives, leading “in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (12). How can normal, struggling people like you and me do this? One of God’s gifts to us to succeed is his Word. In fact, we are called to “devote [ourselves] to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching” (13). God works through his Word. In our church and in our homes, with the congregation and with our families, we must be devoted to the Word. 

Day 5: 1 Timothy 4:15-16
The Christian life is not a hobby. It is an all-encompassing, fully-transformed way of living. That is why Paul can call us to “immerse” ourselves in God’s Word and ways (15). And we must keep a close watch on our lives so that we don’t drift. And this is good for us and for all who listen to us (16). Do you want to save your family members, your co-workers, your classmates, and your friends? God’s pattern for salvation is a life immersed in his Word and ways. 

Catechism Connection: 2
The Word is our weapon to defeat the enemy. The Word is the bread that fuels our lives. The Word is the powerful tool of God to train us for righteousness. “The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him” (WSC 2).

Monthly Memory: 1 John 4:11
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 6/21

Day 1: 1 Samuel 10:1-8
When Samuel anointed Saul as the future king of Israel, he shared many amazing things that would soon happen. God confirmed Saul as the new ruler through amazing signs. However, it is also important to see that God still took full ownership of his people. Samuel told Saul, “The Lord has anointed you to be prince over his heritage” (1). Israel still belonged to the Lord as his heritage. God is the owner and ruler of all things. And we should live our lives understanding that we are taking care of what belongs to Him. Ask God to help you live as his servant today. 

Day 2: 1 Samuel 10:9-16
Saul had an amazing experience through the power of God. He was given a new heart and God’s Spirit rushed upon Him. However, he did not come home boasting about his experiences. He waited for Samuel to tell about what God had done. When God works in our lives, it is good to share. But we must be careful not to boast or act pridefully about God’s grace toward us. Ask God to help you to act humbly, rather than pridefully, as a result of his kindness toward you. 

Day 3: 1 Samuel 10:17-27
While yesterday’s reading shows that Saul could act humbly and wisely at times, today’s reading shows the first hint of his lifelong struggle with fear. God again supernaturally affirmed Saul through the casting of lots, but when it was his time to step forward, he hid in the baggage. We can also struggle to take on the responsibilities that God gives to us. But God will give us strength to obey his call. Ask Him to strengthen your obedience today. 

Day 4: 1 Samuel 11:1-11
God gave Saul victory against Israel’s enemies. Saul responded rightly to the situation, but it was “the dread of the Lord” that fell on the people so that they fought. God gave the victory. Still today, we must respond obediently to God’s command and call. And we must remember that He is the One who wins the battle. He gets the credit. He gets the praise. Pray of a prayer of praise today. List many of God’s great works in your life.

Day 5: 1 Samuel 11:12-15
Saul was installed as king of Israel. This caused Saul and all the men of Israel to rejoice greatly. But the people still were acknowledging their true King. Note that Saul was giving God credit: “today the Lord has worked salvation in Israel” (13). And notice that the people sacrificed to worship the Lord. While God has many great servants in this world, He is the only true Hero. While there are many good examples to follow, there is only one Lord. Ask God to help you honor Him more fully with a life lived for his glory. 

Catechism Connection: 103
When we ask God, “May your will be done in earth as it
is in heaven,” we are asking Him to work in the world and in us. We ask “that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things, as the angels do in heaven” (WSC 103). We must know Him better to follow Him more closely. And we need his help to submit to Him as our true Lord and King.

Monthly Memory: 1 John 4:11
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 6/14

Day 1: 1-4
Saul is handsome and tall. He is obedient to his father. And he continues on his task even when there are obstacles. It seems that Saul had qualities that made him a good candidate for a leader. However, as we continue to read, we will see that he does not make the most of the gifts God had given to him. We can learn from this. We may have opportunities and potential, but in order to be successful, we must live lives of obedience and faithfulness. Ask God to help you use your gifts to honor Him.

Day 2: Verses 5-10
Here we see the beginning of Saul’s decline. His servant rightly thinks it would be wise to seek the man of God. But instead of seeing God’s prophet—Samuel—as someone speaking for the Almighty, they understood him as someone who might have a supernatural insight on where to find the donkeys. And they both thought that they must pay to hear God’s voice. In our lives, we must be careful of thinking too little of God’s majesty and power. Yes, He cares about the in’s-and-out’s of our daily life, but we must never approach Him as someone who works for us. Ask God to help you remember that He is your Lord.

Day 3: Verses 11-17
Samuel was listening to God’s voice. And he was willing to obey. Remember that Samuel had been upset about the idea of a king, but he still obeyed when God called him to help install the king. Do you trust God enough to follow after Him even when He works in ways that don’t line up with your plan? Ask God to help you obey Him even when it is difficult or when you don’t understand.

Day 4: Verses 18-25
Saul is confused by how Samuel is speaking to him. And he must have been even more perplexed when he found out that food had been specifically set aside for him ahead of time. You see, Saul had been focused on finding the donkeys, but God was working out all the details to bring Israel its first king. We can be thankful that God sees and knows all. In his sovereignty, He is working out all the details of life. Jesus said that not even a bird falls to the ground apart from the Father’s permission (Matt 10:29). And, in Saul’s life, not one donkey ran away outside of God’s plan. And, for those who belong to Christ, not one day passes without God working out all things for our good (Rom 8:28). 

Day 5: Verses 26-27
Samuel asked Saul to stop his journey to hear the Word of God. God still speaks today, and He has given us his Scriptures so that we can hear his voice. He calls us to slow down our journey and listen. We all have places to go and things to do, but when God calls us to pause because He has something to say, we must stop to listen.

Catechism Connection: 4
Saul and his servant had let their view of God bend too low. They needed to believe, “God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth” (WSC 4). God loves to help us with our everyday issues. He can help us find our “lost donkeys.” But we must never treat Him like a wish-granter or lucky-charm. He is the Lord.

Monthly Memory: 1 John 4:11
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 6/7

Day 1: 1-3
Samuel was a godly man, but his sons did not follow in his footsteps. Certainly, they had been raised to know God’s Word and to honor Him. However, they had turned away. This must have grieved Samuel. And when kids grow up and live ungodly lives, it still grieves parents today. But God can bring home the wanderers. God can rescue the lost sheep. Pray today that God would keep you following Him. And pray that your family would pursue Him as well.

Day 2: Verses 4-6
Since the lives of Samuel’s sons weren’t characterized by the faithfulness that is required of God’s leaders, the people were calling out for a king. The sin of Samuel’s sons led to the sins of the people. While we are all responsible for our own sin, we need to see that our sins don’t operate in a vacuum; they affect others around us. When Samuel experienced disappointment because of the people and because of his sons, he turned to God. Where do you go with your discouragement? Bring how you really feel to the Lord. He hears. He cares.

Day 3: Verses 7-9
God doesn’t give up on his people. But He does allow us to experience the consequences of our choices. The punishment for our sins fell on Christ, but there are still consequences—broken relationships, loss, pain—that we experience as forgiven sinners. Israel had been continually rejecting God’s kingship, and now God was giving them what they asked for. Ask God to help you and your family not to reject Him as your ruler today. His ways are the way to joy.

Day 4: Verses 10-18
The people thought that an earthly king would make their lives better. But Samuel explained the high cost that would accompany a king. The king would take a portion of the people’s family, land, time, wealth, and more. Today, God’s people can still think that it will be worth it to pursue life their own way rather than God’s way. There is a price tag for everything we do: it will cost us to follow Christ or to follow our own way. Pray that God would give you and your family the wisdom to choose his ways.

Day 5: Verses 19-22
In today’s passage, the people underline their real desire: to be “like all the nations” (20). They had bought into the lie that they should be like everyone else. We all want “a king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles,” but they were missing the fact that God was doing that for them. Who had rescued them from Egyptians, Midianites, and Philistines? The Lord. Will you trust the Lord to lead you and your family? He can do it better than any counterfeit king. Ask Him to help you trust Him and his ways.

Catechism Connection: 36
As we grow in godliness, we grow in joy, assurance, and peace. However, when we choose sin, the consequences can include a loss of “peace of conscience” and “joy in the Holy Ghost” (WSC 36). God may, for a season, turn us over to the consequences of our sins, so that those consequences will drive us to our knees and press us toward Him (WCF 5.5).

Monthly Memory: 1 John 4:11
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/31

Day 1: 1-4
For twenty years the people mourned as a result of their sin. But this wasn’t all bad. God used their brokenness to bring them back to Himself. They decided to destroy their idols and serve the Lord only (4). All of us have the sinful inclination to worship idols. These might include self, comfort, wealth, reputation, pleasure, and more. However, if we are to find our ultimate comfort, our eternal wealth, a righteous reputation, and perfect pleasure, we must seek after the Lord alone.

Day 2: Verses 5-6
The people confessed their sins and turned away from them. In 1 John 1:9, we read, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” But confession can be hard. We don’t want to bring our sins into the light. However, hiding sins or pretending to be righteous only brings pain and fear. God knows who we really are. And He can handle our sins. As you pray, begin to confess your sins to Him. It is the way to be made clean.

Day 3: Verses 7-11
When the people began to pursue God, their enemies began to pursue them. Like the Philistines, Satan often responds to harm us when we seek God’s face. The devil is a real enemy who hates you because you belong to God. However, God is stronger and He is with us. Samuel prayed and the Lord protected. Likewise, we can trust that God hears our prayers, and He is able to defend us from our enemies. So ask Him to fight for you today.

Day 4: Verses 12-14
God brought Israel out of their troubles with the Philistines. And this peace came when they turned back to Him. To remember God’s work in saving them, Samuel set up a stone to mark the way that God had powerfully rescued them. We need these reminders of God’s good work. Why? Because hard times will come again. And we need to be reminded that God is strong for us, that God loves us, and that He is able to save.

Day 5: Verses 15-17
In the good times, God’s people had a good leader: Samuel. He moved through the land to judge the people. He pointed them to the Lord. He reminded them of God’s Word. He called them to continue to kill sin. Thank God today for the spiritual leaders that He has given to you for your good. Perhaps parents, mentors, friends, teachers, pastors, elders, or peers. 

Catechism Connection: 98
“Prayer is offering up our desires to God for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and with thankful acknowledgment of his mercies” (WSC 98). Today, when many of us pray, we do a lot of asking. However, the catechism helpfully points us back to the reality that in the Lord’s Prayer confession is an essential, central part of praying. And though it can be hard, confession leads to joy because we can better acknowledge God’s mercies.

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/24

Day 1: 1 Samuel 5:1-8
The Philistines had captured the Ark in battle. They assumed that this meant that their God, Dagon, was powerful over Israel’s God, Yahweh. But they were wrong! It wasn’t long until Dagon was bowing before the Ark and breaking apart. Beyond this, God was making the Philistines sick and sore with horrible growths on their bodies. But instead of seeing that the God of Israel was worthy of worship and bowing like Dagon, the Philistines sent the Ark away. It is tragic when we respond wrongly to God’s glory. Pray that God would help you and your family respond to his greatness with praise.

Day 2: 1 Samuel 5:9-12
The Philistines passed the Ark from city to city. Everywhere it went, God humiliated the Philistines. He humbled them. Eventually, they decided that they had to send the Ark back “to its own place, that it may not kill [them] and [their] people” (11). The Philistines had made God their enemy and now they wanted to escape from his power. Thank God that though we were once his enemies, He has reconciled us by his Son (Rom 5:10). Praise Him that He has overcome our sin and brought us close to Him in love.

Day 3: 1 Samuel 6:1-9
The Philistines realized that they had sinned. So instead of simply sending the Ark back to Israel, they decided to send a “guilt offering” of gold with it (3). Just like in chapter 4, they remembered what God had done to the Egyptians and that memory still haunted them. However, instead of bowing to the Lord, they sent his Ark away. They wanted to keep their own gods (5). Ask God to show you his glory and to help you kill your idols.

Day 4: 1 Samuel 6:10-16
God brought the Ark back to Israel and the people rejoiced when they saw it. However, they didn’t just rejoice; they also worshiped. When God does something great, we should be glad. But, more importantly, we should be glad in Him. What are the good things that God has done in your life? How has He blessed you? List some of these and worship Him for his joy-giving kindness.

Day 5: 1 Samuel 6:17-21
Sadly, the Israelites worshiped God, but not in the way that He wanted. Instead of following his clear instructions about how to treat the Ark, they looked in it. And they were killed. They asked, “Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?” (20). They had worshiped in a way that pleased them rather than in the way God required, and there were consequences. Consider your worship: Do you come to worship thinking about what will work best for you? Or do you come asking what the King commands from you?

Catechism Connection: 50-52
“The second commandment requires receiving, observing, and keeping pure and whole all the religious worship and ordinances that God has appointed in his Word” (WSC 50). This means that we must not worship Him in any way other than what is appointed in his Word (WSC 51) because of “God’s sovereignty over us, his ownership of us, and the zeal he has for his own worship” (WSC 52).

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/17

Day 1: Verses 1-4
The Israelites faced a terrible defeat in battle, and this caused them to ask an important question: Why has God defeated us? Their elders understood that God was in control, but they didn’t understand what God would make clear later in 1 Samuel 15:22—that God is not pleased by empty actions of “worship.” He desires obedient love. So when the people brought the Ark to battle with the belief that this would put them on God’s “good side,” they missed the point. We make this mistake today by believing that our religious acts can put us in God’s good graces. Pray that God would give you a heart for obedient love rather than empty religious activities.

Day 2: Verses 5-9
The Hebrew people became confident when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to the battle. And the Philistines remembered what had happened to the Egyptians. The Israelites should have remembered their journey out of Egypt too. Had they forgotten how God had destroyed the Israelites who had rebelled against God in the wilderness (Num 16)? God is great and powerful. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Prov 1:7). Does your life reflect that you fear God today? 

Day 3: Verses 10-11
The Israelites trusted in the Ark, but apparently did not trust in the laws that were kept within the Ark. The people appear to have been missing a vital faith of their own. They had evidence that Moses and Aaron had walked with God, but where was the evidence of their own faith? James said, “I will show you my faith by my works” (2:18). Can your family and friends see your faith by how you live?

Day 4: Verses 12-18
This passage shows the sad end of Eli’s ministry. He had done some things well, but he had allowed his sons to defile God’s holiness. He had failed to stand for God’s character at the tabernacle in his life, and he had seen the Ark of God lost at his death. At that point, his chapter in the story was complete. But until that day, Eli could have repented. Many in Scripture from Manasseh to Paul turned back to God. We can repent too. Consider your life and pray a prayer of repentance asking God to turn your heart and life to Him more and more. 

Day 5: Verses 19-22
Phineas’s wife is crushed by the loss of her family, and devastated at the loss of “the glory.” She seemed to understand that the Ark was not simply a mascot, but a real marker of God’s real glory in her world. Israel apart from the glory of God was a sad and empty place. And that emptiness could not be filled even by a good gift, like a son. What makes your life “full”? Are you living to “to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord” (Ps 27:4)? Do you ask, with Moses, “Show me your glory” (Ex 33:18)?

Catechism Connection: 47, 87
Let Eli be an example to all of us: today is the day to turn away from our sin. There is no reason to wait. And this repentance will press us into greater “awareness of the mercy of God in Christ,” and change us so that we are now “purposing and working constantly for a new obedience” (WSC 87). This is the way to joy.

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/10

Day 1: Verses 1-3
During Eli’s day, the Word of the Lord was exceedingly rare. Today, especially in our culture, God’s Word is more available than ever. Hebrews 1 tells us that in the past God spoke in many ways, but now he has spoken to us through his Son. And 2 Timothy 3 explains that all Scripture is breathed out by God—it is his voice, his Words. Take some time to thank God that his Word is not rare today. And ask Him to help you and your family to feast on his Book because we don’t live on bread alone, but on every word from God’s mouth (Matt 4:4). 

Day 2: Verses 4-7
Samuel was hearing the audible voice of God, but did not grasp that. And we are no more perceptive than he was. We would never know or recognize God without his work to reveal Himself to us. God speaking to us in a way that we can grasp is grace: an unearned gift. Pray that God would, by his Holy Spirit, open your ears more and more to what He has to say. Ask Him to reveal Himself to your family and to help you know Him. 

Day 3: Verses 8-9
It took a little while, but eventually Eli understood what was happening. As an older and more experienced believer, he pointed Samuel toward the Lord. And he developed Samuel’s understanding. We all need people to point us to the Lord and encourage us to respond to God’s voice. Who are the people who have pointed you to God’s Word? Thank God for them. Who are the people that God has called you to point toward Him? Pray that God would help you faithfully lead them toward Him today.

Day 4: Verses 10-18
When Samuel hears the Lord this time, he responds with the wise words Eli had given to him. Samuel understands that he is a servant. God is the Lord—the Ruler—and Samuel must listen and obey. When God tells Samuel the tragic news about Eli’s family, Samuel conveys that message to Eli even though he is afraid. And then we see what might be Eli’s best moment when he says, “It is the Lord. Let him do what seems good to him” (18). Eli also understood that he too was a servant of God and lived that out as an example to Samuel. Pray that God would help you follow Him as his faithful servant today.

Day 5: Verses 19-21
Look at the amazing ways in which God made Samuel a successful prophet. First, God was with Samuel. And the Lord empowered what Samuel spoke by not letting any of “his words fall to the ground” (19). God “established” Samuel as someone who worked for Him (20). And, finally, God appeared again. Was it in a pillar of fire? No. Was it on a mountain-top accompanied by lightning? No. This time God “revealed himself… by the word of the Lord” (21). Pray that God would work in your life and make you successful for Him by the power of his Word.

Catechism Connection: 35, 2
This chapter shows Samuel growing, being sanctified. Sanctification is God’s work “by which we are renewed… in the image of God and by which we are enabled more and more to die to sin and live to righteousness” (WSC 35). And God does this through “the Word of God… to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him” (WSC 2).

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/3

Day 1: Verses 1-11
In chapter one, Hannah prayed out of her distress. And here in chapter two, we see her praying out of her joy. The time is always right for prayer. As Paul taught, “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17). The Bible talks in different places about our inclination to forget about God when things are going well. However, we must see that God is the great giver of every gift. And it is good and right for us to pray praise back to Him. What will you praise Him for today? 

Day 2: Verses 12-17
Eli’s sons were employed as priests. They had the tasks of helping people worship and seek the Lord. However, their actions did not line up with their assignment. Rather than serving the Lord, they used the gifts of the people to serve themselves. They pressured the people to do wrong and “treated the offering of the Lord with contempt” (17). Though they worked in the Lord’s house, they were far from the Lord’s heart. We must all be careful not to mistake coming to church with loving the Lord. Take a moment to examine your own heart. Pray with David: “ Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Ps 139:24). 

Day 3: Verses 18-21
Samuel stands as a stark contrast to Eli’s sons. They didn’t honor the Lord, but Samuel “grew in the presence of the Lord” (21). And he was encouraged in this growth by his family. His mother supported him every year by making him a special robe to be used as he served the Lord. In what ways can you support your family in seeking and serving the Lord?

Day 4: Verses 22-26
I am haunted by the words in verse 22: Eli “kept hearing” about the evil constantly committed by his sons. He became aware of the pattern of their lives and he continued to hear about it. Finally, he confronted them, but “they would not listen to the voice of their father” (25). We must not wait to lovingly, but firmly confront our own sin or sin in the lives of those whom God has given to us. Galatians 6:1 says, if anyone is caught in sin, “you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.” Pray that God would give you wisdom to fight sin in your life and in your family. 

Day 5: Verses 27-36
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). Here we see the consequences of sin in Eli’s family. However, in this judgement, there is also the promise of a coming Messiah. These corrupt priests will one day be replaced with Jesus—the Great High Priest. God promised, “I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind. And I will build him a sure house, and he shall go in and out before my anointed forever” (35). Thank God for Jesus.

Catechism Connection: 100-107
God has given us the Lord’s prayer to help us pray with praise, dependence, and confession, asking for guidance and God’s will to be done. Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly and consider what each part means for your life. 

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/26

Day 1: Verses 1-8
Choosing not to follow God’s design leads to pain and heartache. In this passage, we see a man with two wives. And we see weeping, rivalry, conflict, and disappointment. After all, in Genesis 2:24, God said, “A man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” From the start, God had always intended that families would be built from one husband and one wife. It is crucial for us to seek to follow God’s plan; it is the way to joy! And at the same time, it is important to know that God continues to work in the lives of imperfect people. Ask God to give you the strength to follow his commands and principles even when it is hard.

Day 2: Verses 9-11
Hannah took her disappointment to the Lord. She brought Him her honest emotions and longings. Hannah did not come pretending to have her life organized perfectly. She did not come with perfect words and counterfeit contentment. She came with her real pain. And this kind of truth-telling prayer pleases God. We don’t need to pretend when we come before Him. He is ready to hear what is really on our hearts. What is on your heart that you need to bring before the Lord today? 

Day 3: Verses 12-18
At first, Eli didn’t understand Hannah’s prayer. However, when he took time to understand, he was able to encourage her and pray for her. This was a clear encouragement to Hannah in her distress. Eli couldn’t answer Hannah’s prayer, but he could pray with her. And when she went away, “her face was no longer sad” (18). Who can you serve today through encouragement and prayer?

Day 4: Verses 19-20
Hannah’s worship did not require God to give her what she wanted. She went and worshiped the Lord before He had answered her prayer. This is an important lesson for us today: God is worthy of our praise regardless of our situation. We may be distressed and disappointed, but He is still good. As you pray today, list some things that give you reason to praise and thank God. He is worthy of worship every day, no matter what. 

Day 5: Verses 21-28
Hannah brought her son back to the tabernacle when the time was right. She gave back to God what He had given to her. And her worship was pleasing in the sight of God. And, it was also a gift to her son. Did you notice the last verse of the chapter? “And he worshiped the Lord there” (28). The son saw his mom’s worship and it taught him about the Lord and how to respond rightly to the King of kings. 

Catechism Connection: 98-99
The Westminster Shorter Catechism gives a beautiful definition of prayer: “Prayer is offering up our desires to God for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and with thankful acknowledgment of his mercies” (WSC 98). We offer our desires to God—pouring out our hearts to Him—in trust, with confession, out of thanksgiving. And we trust Him no matter what.

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/19

*We just finished Acts and next week we’ll start 1 Samuel. But this week, I wanted to offer encouragement from Scripture to be in the Word as a family at home. - Kelly

Day 1: 2 Timothy 3:12-17
Paul wrote to Timothy and told him to “continue in what [he had] learned and [had] firmly believed, knowing from whom [he] learned it and how from childhood [he had] been acquainted with the sacred writings” (14-15). Every family should have the goal to know the sacred writings (the Bible) from childhood. And this learning should be tied to the character of the parents or grandparents teaching the Bible in the home. This way their lives show the power of Scripture. Pray that God would help your family grow to be more and more committed to the Word.

Day 2: 2 Timothy 3:12-17 (again)
It’s good to look at this passage again because it not only shows the importance of learning the Bible in the family, it describes the power of the Bible. Scripture is “breathed out by God” and is useful to make us godly (16). Beyond that, God uses the Bible to equip us for every good work. If the Bible is God’s tool to form us, we must make a habit of being shaped by the Bible. Ask God to give you a love for the Word and a passion to share it with your family.

Day 3: Deut 6:5-9
Here we read the Greatest Commandment and God’s call to put this commandment on our hearts. And how can we tell if we have taken God’s command to heart? We teach God’s truths “diligently to [our] children” (7). Those who love God are called to teach his ways in the home. Ask the Lord to help you diligently teach his Word at home.

Day 4: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 (again)
What does it look like to diligently teach God’s Word and ways to our families? Talk about them at home, on the road, at night, and in the morning (7). Place reminders all around—wherever you spend time. This way you will never forget to be in the Word together. Put a Bible at your kitchen table to use at meals. Put memory verses on your mirror or in the car. Put Scripture songs in your playlists. Make it impossible to avoid the call to share who the Lord is with your family.

Day 5: Psalm 19:7-14
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that doing family worship or Bible-time is a chore. Remember what God’s Word accomplishes: it revives the soul (7), enlightens the eyes (8), is sweeter than honey and more valuable than gold (10). Family-time in the Scriptures is a gift to all involved. Ask God to deepen your love for his Word.

Catechism Connection: 1-2
We were given life to glorify God (WSC 1), but without Scripture we are not fully equipped to do that. “The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him” (WSC 2). Let’s be in the Word together in our homes! God desires to speak to us and to shape our families through his Word. Will we listen?

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/12

Day 1: Verses 1-10
God rescued Paul from a shipwreck and then from the bite of a venomous snake. Those sound like very unpleasant experiences, but those experiences opened doors for Paul to share the rescuing God with others. He wanted everyone to experience the goodness of God. And, in this case, the people responded kindly. This doesn’t always happen, but it does make sense that showing kindness in the name of our Lord can open doors. And we all know people need to be encouraged, helped, and served. Who can you show kindness to today?

Day 2: Verses 11-16
Finally! After a long journey through jail cells, assasination attempts, shipwrecks, and snakebites, Paul made it to Rome. God had orchestrated Paul’s journey so that he had numerous opportunities to share the Good News, but it certainly felt slow. And in our lives, it can often feel like God is moving slowly. However, we can trust Him to work in the right ways at the right time. Ask God to help you have patience to trust Him as He leads.

Day 3: Verses 17-22
Why did the Jewish people in Rome want to hear Paul share about Jesus? Because they knew that the Way was spoken against everywhere (28:22). This is an example of how Satan may want to work against the Lord, but what the enemy intends for evil, God intends for good (Gen 50:20). So many people had been speaking against Christianity that it created interest. Now many were interested in the source of the scandal. Can you think of anyone who might think following Jesus is so strange or out of date that they might love to hear you talk about it?

Day 4: Verses 23-28
When Paul got the chance, he shared about Jesus all day from all the Scripture he had available. He was making the most of this opportunity. And some of the Jewish people were convinced, while others disbelieved. This should encourage us: Paul did his best, but the results of his evangelism were up to God. Pray that God would help you to share your faith as best as you can, as much as you can, with all the scriptural support that you can. Ask his Holy Spirit to help you trust Him with the response.

Day 5: Verses 30-31
Paul lived in Rome for two years, paid his own bills, and welcomed any who came to visit. As he did this, he declared the Good News. I love this passage because, unlike much of Acts, this part is so… normal. Paul is in his house. Paul is paying bills. And Paul is sharing Christ. This is the kind of life that we should aspire to live when life is “normal.” The normal life that God gives can be every bit as missional as a life of jails, ships, riots, and all the rest that Paul experienced. Ask God to help you to live the life He has given you for his glory.

Catechism Connection: 39
As we wrap up Acts, let us press on to live in response to what He has taught us here. WSC 39 says, “The duty which God requires of mankind is obedience to his revealed will.” By his grace, let’s live for Him.

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/5

Day 1: Verses 1-8
The beginning of Paul’s journey to Rome was slow and difficult. The “winds were against” them (27:4). They sailed “slowly” (27:7) with “difficulty” (27:8). In life, there are elements, like the weather, that are beyond our control. And these things can make life difficult for us. However, these difficulties and slow-downs can help us remember how great our God is. Nothing is outside of his control. Nothing is difficult for Him. Ask God to help you to rely on his strength when challenges arise.

Day 2: Verses 9-12
The journey transitioned from slow and difficult to “dangerous” (27:9). Paul advised the centurion not to press on, but to stay put. This would be safer. However, the centurion did not listen to Paul, and took the advice of the pilot. And here we see a glimpse of Paul’s humility. We read nothing of Paul arguing or being upset. When he didn’t get his way, he reflected the patient, humble character of Christ. Pray that God would help you to show Christ’s character when you don’t get your way. 

Day 3: Verses 13-26
The situation worsened: “neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned” (27:20). But God sent his messenger to instruct Paul, and this time the leaders listened when Paul spoke to them. He now had a track-record of being correct. The men knew that they should have listened before, and they would certainly listen now. In other words, God used Paul’s painful rejection to prepare the men to listen at this point. Even when He works in ways we don’t expect, He is in control.

Day 4: Verses 27-38
When the stakes were highest and the sailors were trying to escape on their own, the centurion and soldiers listened to Paul again. His credibility had been established and it held firm even in a life-and-death situation. And as the stressful situation unfolded, Paul used his credibility not for power or control, but to encourage and point to Jesus (27:35-36). Pray that God would give us a trustworthy track-record so that we too can point to Him in all situations. 

Day 5: Verses 39-44
The soldiers had a plan to kill the prisoners (27:42), and that was bad news for Paul. But God had worked in such a way, that the centurion—Julius—wanted to save Paul. Previously, he had been kind to Paul (27:3) and here he actively worked to save his life. God not only controls weather and opportunities, He also connects us to exactly the right relationships. He guides the “who” of our lives along with the “what,” “where,” and “why.” Thank God for the relationships in your life, and ask Him to use you to point those people toward Christ.  

Catechism Connection: 26
Acts 27 is a testimony of God ruling the world. And WSC 26 explains how Jesus carries out his kingly office, saying, “Christ carries out the office of a king in subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies.”

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/29

Day 1: Verses 1-3
Paul had been treated unjustly and had been in danger for a long time. However, he remained kind and patient in how he dealt with others. It would have been easy for him to lash out and complain, but he didn’t. And it is likely that those who heard his message were more open to what he said because of how he said it. He married charity with clarity. Would people describe you as a patient and kind person even in the face of adversity or frustration? Who we are has a lot to do with how people hear what we say.

Day 2: Verses 4-8
In Paul’s time and place, the supernatural was an assumed part of life. Everyone believed in God or gods. Therefore, Paul could ask, “Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead?” (26:8). Every culture has certain shared beliefs, and Christians are wise to be aware of what those beliefs are. This allows us to find real common-ground as we share the truth about Jesus. What areas of common ground do we share with non-Christians in our culture?

Day 3: Verses 9-11
Though Paul knew the sinfulness of his past, he was not shy about sharing his story. He was open about his past sins because he wanted to make clear how God had changed him. In the modern church, there can be pressure to pretend to be perfect. However, the gospel is that Christ came into the world to save sinners. And Paul knew that it glorified God to be able to share that he was the worst of sinners (1 Tim 1:15), but God had changed him. Pray that God would make you appropriately transparent about how He has changed your life.

Day 4: Verses 12-23
Again, Paul shared the story of his conversion. And he openly shared the reason for his life now: to share the hope of Jesus with others. The purpose of his life was “to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in [Christ]” (26:18). That is the purpose of each of our lives. Pray that God would help us to live according to our mission.  

Day 5: Verses 24-32
The defense that Paul was giving was actually a defense of the gospel. Instead of looking to free himself, he was seeking to free the souls of those who imprisoned him. And Agrippa could see that Paul was evangelizing. He asked Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” (26:28). And Paul wasn’t shy in answering that he wanted all those who heard his message to become followers of Christ (26:29). There is no better time than now for each of us to live like this ourselves. Who can you share the Good News with today?

Catechism Connection: 35
One of the most compelling kinds of evidence of God’s work in the world is how He changes us. We are not who we used to be. “Sanctification is the work of God’s free grace by which we are renewed in our whole person in the image of God and by which we are enabled more and more to die to sin and live to righteousness” (WSC 35). When others see you being changed by Christ, they have good reason to believe in Him.

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/22

Day 1: Verses 1-7
After a long period of waiting, Paul’s case was going to be heard again. And again the Jewish leaders came with charges against him that they could not prove (25:8). After two years in prison, the untruths kept on coming. Sometimes in life, God steers us through long periods of difficulty, disappointment, and pain. One day, God will make all things new and there will be no more heartache, but—until then—we can expect to experience hardships as we follow Christ. After all, Jesus’ life was full of pain too. Ask the Lord to help you endure with honor as you follow Him. 

Day 2: Verses 8-12
Again Paul was bold in his defense because truth was on his side. He made it clear that he didn’t fear death (25:11). There is an unbreakable freedom that comes from knowing and faithfully following the Lord. He ordains the number of our days (Ps 139:16). He is the giver of life (Acts 17:25). And those who believe in Him will live even though they die (John 11:25). Even in prison or in death, God’s people are safe. No one can pluck God’s people out of his hand (John 10:29). Ask God to build up your faith in Him today.

Day 3: Verses 13-19
Festus explained Paul’s case to Agrippa, and he understood that it was all about one thing: Jesus. The dispute was about the fact that Paul claimed that Jesus was alive (25:20). Over several years and through all of his challenges in prison, Paul had kept the gospel message at the center. In our busy lives, we too must strive to keep the message of Christ, his cross, and his resurrection at the center.

Day 4: Verses 20-22
As Festus explained Paul’s situation, Agrippa became curious. You never know how a life lived for Christ will spark the curiosity of others. Paul had been sitting in prison, but now governors and rulers were coming to hear him speak about Christ. Like Paul, we can trust God’s timing. He will bring the right people at the right time to hear the Good News. Our job is to always be ready to give an answer for the hope in us (1 Pet 3:15).    

Day 5: Verses 23-27
Paul had essentially been vindicated at this point, but because he had appealed to Caesar, he would be sent to Rome. However, his judges were confused on what their judgement should be because they didn’t even have any charges against him. In one of his letters, Paul wrote to live life above reproach so that your opponents will be ashamed (Titus 2:8). It certainly looks like that was what he experienced here. Pray that God would help you to live purely so that none of the enemy’s charges can stick.

Catechism Connection: 76-78
Paul was a man of truth, and that is a great example for all of us. The Ninth Commandment “requires maintaining and promoting truth between one person and another, as well as maintaining and promoting our neighbor’s good name as well as our own” (WSC 77). And it forbids “anything that puts the truth at risk or is injurious to our own or our neighbor’s good name” (WSC 78). Most importantly, being people of honesty allows us to live without putting Christ’s name at risk.

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

This summer our out-of-town youth trip is to Panther, WV for Son Servants from July 20-25. I am so excited! Our church has been connected to this trip for a long time, but here is some helpful info about it.

What kind of trip is it?
Son Servants is a missions trip and a youth camp all in one.
It's a missions trip where there is meaningful work to be done like painting, repairs, and more. And it's a camp where students from different churches stay together, eat together, worship together, and play together.

The Son Servants website says the trip “has been described as an international trip in our own backyard!  While the location and culture are very unique, the people that we meet and serve are as authentic and welcoming as can be found.”

Who can go?
Students in middle school (rising 7th) and high school are encouraged to come!

St. Matthew’s Church is also sending a group on this trip, and we will get to partner with them as well. We are hoping to do an informational meeting together to help us all prepare for the trip.

What is the cost and process for registering?
As with most of our events, our generous church has made it possible for us to offer a discounted rate to all students. Beyond that, there are some ways to lower the cost even further. The simplest is to register early. Students can also lower the cost by bringing a friend from outside of our church. There is a reduced-rate for families with multiple kids participating as well. And, of course, if your family is in need of additional financial assistance with this trip, we can help.

Register by April 15 for the early price of $200.
Register by May 15 for the price of $250.

Reduced Costs: 

• Family: If two or more students from the same family register by April 15, the cost will be $175 per student. 
• Outreach: If a student and a friend (who does not attend DPC Youth or St. Matthew’s, but lives locally) register by April 15, the cost will be $175 per student. The idea here is to use this trip to help someone make a connection with the church. 

I am praying that God will assemble just the right team! Please let me know if you have any questions. And check out the pictures below!

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/15

Day 1: Verses 1-4
Here we see the Jewish high priest and his spokesman being more open to changes in Jewish culture from Rome than from Jesus. This is sad. Christianity is the historic continuation of the faith of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus is the snake-crusher promised to Adam, the Suffering Servant spoken of by Isaiah, and the Messiah that the people had waited to see. However, the gospel is foolishness to those who are perished (1 Cor 1:18), and it takes a work of God to give new life (Eph 2). Though the faith is reasonable, we cannot be reasoned into new life. Pray that God would give new life to the lost in your life.

Day 2: Verses 5-9
Paul’s crime was being a ringleader of Christians: he followed the Way. Jesus Himself had said this would happen: “Be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations” (Mark 13:9-10). Ask God to help you to be on your guard so that you are able to stand for his name and his kingdom.

Day 3: Verses 10-16
Paul is unashamed of the gospel (Rom 1:16). He declares that he worships God “according to the Way” (24:14). He was clearly associating himself with those who were saying Jesus is Lord. This offended the Jewish leaders because Paul was clear that Jesus is the God of the Bible. And it ran the risk of offending the Romans because they referred to Caesar as Lord. However, Paul was bold because he feared God more than man. Pray that God would help you unashamedly trust Him too.

Day 4: Verses 17-21
Paul’s defense was simple: he told the truth. Those who live righteously are as bold as a lion (Prov 28:1), and Paul had the truth on his side. He had not incited riots. He had not tried to cause problems for the Jewish people. Instead, he had been standing up for the resurrection of Christ and the hope of the gospel. There is great power in having nothing to hide. Pray that God would make you a person of integrity so that you can stand for Him in all circumstances.

Day 5: Verses 22-27
Paul continued his missionary mission for two years in prison. He was able to share with Felix and Drusilla. However, they didn’t respond at that time with faith. In fact, Felix heard the truth and was alarmed. To many this might seem like a disheartening failure. Paul was stuck in prison and no one we know of was coming to Christ. However, God’s plan was never in jeopardy. We don’t know how God will lead. And He might take us in a direction that we wouldn’t choose on our own. But his plans are good. They are good for us and for the world.

Catechism Connection: 23-26
We can’t save ourselves or others, but Christ can. And He does this as prophet, priest, and king (WSC 23). As prophet, He reveals to us “by his Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation” (WSC 24). As priest, he satisfied  “divine justice and [reconciled] us to God” (WSC 25). And He rules as our king by “subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies” (WSC 26).

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.