Read John 14:1-6. In the midst of our own restlessness, what can we do that our hearts will not feel troubled? What is the key to overcoming division, selfishness, ambition, hypocrisy, and truly finding rest? Overcoming restlessness always begins with Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He knows the right direction when we wander aimlessly in the wilderness … Continue reading –>
A hypocrite is somebody who play-acts, who wants to appear to be somebody who he or she is not. The term is used seven times in Matthew chapter 23 in a discourse in which Jesus publicly shames the scribes and Pharisees, the very center of Jewish religious leadership ( Matthew 23.13-14, Matthew 23:15, Matthew 23:23, Matthew 23:25, Matthew 23:27, Matthew 23:29). … Continue reading –>
Studying the last week of Jesus’ ministry on earth prior to His crucifixion is always a source of encouragement and inspiration. It also offers a snapshot of how restlessness and ambition drive people to do and say ill-advised things. Read Luke 22:14-30 and think about Jesus’ emotions as He hears His disciples argue during this solemn meal … Continue reading –>
As in the case of the aspen and its larger underground system, selfishness is part of the huge underground system called “sin,” which keeps us from finding true rest in Jesus. Of all the expressions of sin in our lives, selfishness seems to be the easiest to manifest, doesn’t it? For most of us, selfishness … Continue reading –>
Very few people enjoy conflict. We crave harmony and peace. We even teach seminars on peacemaking and conflict resolution in our churches or institutions. Read Matthew 10:34-39. What does Jesus mean when He says that He did not come to bring peace but to bring a sword? What does this mean, considering that Jesus is “the … Continue reading –>
Sabbath Afternoon Read for This Week’s Study: Matthew 10:34-39, Luke 12:13-21, Philippians 2:5-8, Luke 22:14-30, Matthew 23:1-13. Memory Text: “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice” (James 3:16). Aspens are beautiful trees, reaching 45-90 feet (15-30 meters) in height. They thrive in cold climates with cool summers. Their wood is used in furniture and … Continue reading –>
Impact of a Mission School By Diana Fish What kind of impact can a mission school have on a family? Shima, which means “mother” in the Navajo language, heard about Holbrook Seventh-day Adventist Indian School about 40 years ago. An elderly friend spoke very highly of Holbrook Seventh-day Adventist Indian School, located on the Navajo … Continue reading –>
Further Thought: “Now they seemed sincerely to repent of their sinful conduct; but they sorrowed because of the result of their evil course rather than from a sense of their ingratitude and disobedience. When they found that the Lord did not relent in His decree, their self-will again arose, and they declared that they would … Continue reading –>
What similarities do you see in Israel’s wanderings in the wilderness and God’s people living just prior to the Second Coming of Jesus? (See 1 Corinthians 10:1-11.) Throughout history, God’s people have been roaming in the wilderness as they seek the Promised Land. This wilderness has many faces. Right now, it looks like an endless media barrage, the … Continue reading –>
What opportunity is God offering Moses in the face of this rebellion? Read Numbers 14.11-12. God is offering to destroy the Israelites and make a whole new nation with Moses as the father of them all. How does Moses respond to this outright rebellion, not simply against him but against God? (Numbers 14:13-19). This is the moment that … Continue reading –>
