Deuteronomy 1-- The Lord Hates Us

Scripture: Deuteronomy 1 (especially verses 22-33)

Last summer, I took a seminary class on the Old Testament. I recommend doing this if you get a chance, as it opened my eyes to many fascinating and enriching facts about God and the Bible. And while I mean that encouragement, there's one specific reason I'm sharing this fact. My teacher (Dr. Mark Futato of RTS, who wrote the excellent study material for the book of Jonah in the ESV Study Bible!) said something that stuck with me:

"If you learn only one book of the Old Testament, make it Deuteronomy. It was Jesus' favorite book."

Hebrews 12:4-11-- What Children Are Not Disciplined?

Scripture: Hebrews 12:4-11

To review the recent parts of Hebrews: in the face of suffering and hardships, our faith ought to carry us forward as we keep our eyes on eternal truths, just as the Old Testament heroes did and just as Jesus did.

But if you're like me, this isn't easy. In fact, it's super hard. When I'm in the middle of suffering and hardship, I want to keep my eyes on... my suffering and hardship. 

And all the while, amid my pain, complaints, and grumpiness, one question permeates my thoughts and words-- "Why, God? Why?"

Hebrews 11:32-40-- The World Was Not Worthy of Them

Scripture: Hebrews 11:32-40

We want to trust in generalities. Will eating an apple a day generally keep the doctor away? Will a stitch generally, in time, save nine [more stitches from being required]? Is the worm generally eaten by the early bird?