These are a few of our SOAP notes from today’s reading. We encourage you to read and journal on your own first, then join us in conversation about what God revealed to YOU today. Click HERE to go directly to the daily reading if you wish.
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From Desperation to New Life | Kelley Deases
S~ Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; you have put all my sins behind your back. Isaiah 38:17 (NIV)
O~ In the earlier portion of today’s reading, 2 Kings 20, the account of King Hezekiah’s illness and recovery is also told. But in the Book of Isaiah we find this rich, poetic language where King Hezekiah describes his emotions after the Lord heard his deathbed prayer and granted him fifteen more years to live. His heartfelt prayer of praise to his God is not only eloquent, but really encapsulates the Christian walk — I was all but dead and God gave me new life!
A~ Hezekiah echoes the very same revelation, just using different words, as was made by Job, Joseph, Paul, and countless others in their own encounters with God. And I, likewise, have found this to be true: “Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish.” It is not during the “everything is going as planned” or “I got this!” periods of life that I realize my need for God and cling closer to Him, but in those gut-wrenching trials and times marked by confusion and pain where He comes to my aid.
P~ On our recent trip to Dallas, we met an amazing woman who, through the leading of God (and only in His strength!) had taken in multiple boys from the foster care system into her home to offer them love and a sense of stability. As I read this passage, I thought of these kids. It is my prayer that some of their horrific stories of loss and pain and hurt and desperation can be transformed through the love of this sweet servant and from God Himself to draw each heart to Him. I pray for this mom and each one of the boys who have been, are currently, or will be entrusted to her care. Bless her obedience, that it would have multiplied impact on young hearts in need of Your healing and love.
The Book of Life | Joni Tyner
S~ I will never erase their names from the Book of Life, but I will announce before my Father and his angels that they are mine. Revelation 3:5 (NLT)
O~ Jesus is talking about believers- who is given entrance to heaven. Their names are registered in the Book of Life. God knows His children!!!
A~ I find that so reassuring that my name is in the Book of Life. It’s in permanent marker. God has it memorized too, He will be waiting for Joni—Jesus is planning a personal introduction—just for me!!!—to my Father and his angels. Wow. I’ll be treated like royalty—but I am, I am His chosen daughter, He has planned a beautiful celebration for me. I will be welcomed in this way because I believe and trust in Him. He is my Lord.
I want to point out what happens if a person dies and they name IS NOT in the book of life. They receive judgment from God. Every single thought that wasn’t from God will be judged. Everything. That’s a lot of stuff over a person’s lifetime. I’ve had thousands of mean thoughts, bad words, selfish attitudes, rude actions, and _____ in my life. I simply can’t imagine the shame as God reviewed every sin I have ever committed—and then saw the consequence of separation from Him. (eternity in Hell.) (see Revelation 20: 12-15 for the final judgment of unbelievers) I am so grateful I will be spared this judgment and be in the Book of Life.
P~ Dear Lord, I’m so grateful for the gift of eternal life. What a beautiful celebration it will be!
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