Job 1-14

The beginning of Job's suffering, and the first cycle of speeches.
(14v7) "For there is hope for a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease"
Job's companions seem to make the same comment - Job's sin is the cause of his suffering. Job hopes in God, while demanding an answer from Him.
This is a tough book to get to grips with, especially because of the hebrew poem structure. I think I'll be better prepared for it second time around...

Esther 1-10

The people of God face destruction at the hands of their enemy, Haman. Esther intercedes as a spokesperson for God's people. They will share the same fate - the people will live or die depending on whether Esther lives or dies. God works providentially in the background, between the lines of the page, as Mordecai is honoured, God's people are saved, and Haman and his cohorts receive their wages - death.

Psalm 114-117

14 May the LORD give you increase more and more, You and your children. 15 May you be blessed by the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.

Psalm 110-113

5 Who is like the LORD our God, Who dwells on high, 6 Who humbles Himself to behold The things that are in the heavens and in the earth? 7 He raises the poor out of the dust, And lifts the needy out of the ash heap, 8 That He may seat him with princes— With the princes of His people.

Nehemiah 9-13

Nehemiah gets the job done, the wall is rebuilt, but this is not the promised eternal kingdom. The book ends sadly - after coping with the problems without, Nehemiah has to sort out lots of problems within.

Back On The Blog

Hi, John, I'm back from our holiday at the Carey Christian Family Conference, a great week, now I'm exhausted! And, at last, after preaching this morning, I've now got no preaching engagements until September! It's amazing how relaxed I feel without that pressure. So, back on the blog, and I'm really aiming to catch up to you - watch this space...!

Psalm 106-109

20 He sent His word and healed them