Main Themes of the Book of Joshua

Main Themes of the Book of Joshua

Who wrote the Book of Joshua and who did they write it for?

The book of Joshua was primarily written by Joshua to the Israelites and future generations of Christians.


When did the events in the Book of Joshua happen?

The events of the book of Joshua took place in the Late Bronze Age, possibly around 1405 BC.


What is the setting of the Book of Joshua?

Joshua was written during the approximately 30 years the Israelites were on a conquest to claim the Promised Land. By that time it was an extremely pagan land that worshiped many false gods and goddesses and lived in much sin. This made it perfect timing for the Israelites when they finally began their conquest.


What is the purpose of the Books of Joshua?


How does the Book of Joshua apply to my life?


Grab your printable copy of this study!

Book of Joshua printable Bible Study

Summary

Joshua was the primary author of the book of Joshua. He wrote it while the Israelites were on a conquest to claim the Promised Land. He was the predecessor to Moses, sent by God at about 80 years old to be the one to take the people into the land they'd been promised so long ago.

The Israelites likely fought for around 30 years to take the land they were promised, and history and scripture indicate they found the land divided and easier to conquer. It had been a very pagan land, filled with sin and worship of idols, which was surely a test of the Israelite's faith as much as the conquest itself was.

As we read the trials and tests the Israelites faced we can be encouraged that the Lord keeps His promises and that He is working ahead of us, preparing the way for His will to be fulfilled in His way and timing. We can learn a lot about God and the journey and faith He calls each of us to through learning about the journey He took the Israelites through.


Joshua Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
How to find comfort in Psalm 23:4 in the midst of depression

How to find comfort in Psalm 23:4 in the midst of depression

When was the last time you went through a dark valley in your life?

Are you in the midst of one right now?

What does it even mean to "go through the darkest valley"?

Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me. Psalms 23:4 CSB

When I was growing up I lived through many years in the darkest valley of my life. For me, it felt like complete depression, helplessness, and hopelessness. I was in such agony I just wanted to feel anything but the all-consuming darkness.

Psalm 23:4
Pin me for later!

At that point in my life, I didn't know the Lord. I was raised going to church, but honestly the more I learn and grow in my faith the more I look back and realize how trapped and blinded I was by the enemy. Satan wants to consume and destroy us. He wants to separate us from God and convince us the Bible is false, that there is no God or that if there is He couldn't love or forgive us, that we are all alone, that life is meaningless.

Satan wants to destroy you in your dark valleys

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8 ESV

Does that sound familiar? Do you know what utter hopelessness feels like? Yeh, me too.

...[the devil] was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

John 8:44 ESV

The truth is that the devil is full of lies. All that darkness he surrounds us with is deception. All the whispers he tells us are false. For so many years I was convinced I was alone, that I was unlovable, that my life was pointless except to be used and abused by those around me. I was convinced peace didn't exist, that comfort was a lie, that love was just pain.

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

James 4:7 ESV

This was my darkest valley. I felt like I was drowning like the mountain peaks were closing in on me, and that eventually the crashing waves and closing caverns were going to devour me - until God broke through and showed me He had been with me all along.

30 Bible verses for comfort
Pin me for later!

God is the true source of comfort, and He is with you in every dark valley

One day, I felt His hand reach out to me in my dark valley and I finally reached back. It was an inch but He took me a thousand miles. At that moment I had faith the size of a mustard seed and God moved those mountains and parted the sea for me. I was free in Him, I was saved by His grace, I was given His light to show me the way through the darkness.

7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:7 ESV

The darkness didn't vanish - the devil will constantly be there waiting to pounce, desiring nothing more than your destruction - but God is with us through even the darkest valleys. His truth stands firm no matter what our hearts believe.

God has pulled me through my darkest valley and now every dark valley I must walk through I know He is there with me. I know I have nothing to fear with Him on my side. There is evil all around but I can rest in the safety and strength of my God. I am comforted, guided, protected, and corrected by the Lord. I definitely stumble and fall - we all fall short of the glory of God - but I trust in my salvation, knowing that through repentance and confession I am forgiven again and made stronger every time.

4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm23:4 ESV

Where do you need the Lord's comfort today?

Let the Lord be your strength through every dark valley. Let Him guide you, provide for you, correct you, teach you, and grow you. He is our source of comfort in all that we face, and as He comforts us He strengthens us so we can strengthen others in their dark valleys.

How can we pray for you? What dark valley are you facing or even healing from? Let God surround you with His peace and His people. Seek comfort in the Lord first and above all, and let us pray over you in your struggles and pains.

Comfort in Psalm 23_4
Pin me for later!

Grab the Free Printable Reading Plan when you subscribe to our mailing list!

Main Themes of the Book of Philippians

Main Themes of the Book of Philippians

Who wrote the Book of Philippians and who did they write it for?

The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Philippians to the church in Philippi.


When did the events in the Book of Philippians happen?

This letter was written between 60-63 AD while Paul was imprisoned in Rome, approximately a decade after he was called to the region via a night vision sent from the Lord (Acts 16:6-10).


What is the setting of the Book of Philippians?

This letter’s destination was the church in Philippi, a major city in Macedonia which was a Roman colony and the first church established in Europe. Philippi had a very progressive culture where women of the time had a lot of independence.


What is the purpose of the Books of Philippians?

  1. Prayers and proclamations (Philippians 1)
  2. Light of Christ (Philippians 2)
  3. Living for Christ (Philippians 3)
  4. Commitment to Christ (Philippians 4)

How does the Book of Philippians apply to my life?


Grab your printable copy of this study!

Printable Philippians Overview Bible Study
Paul's Epistles Printable Overview Studies

Summary

The letter of Philippians was one of the four letters the Apostle Paul wrote while under house arrest in Rome. He had visited Philippi several times in the years before writing this letter, the church in Philippi being the first city Paul preached in Europe.

Philippi was a progressive place of the time. In particular, the women were very independent, vastly different from the culture in much of the rest of the world. Part of the reason for this letter was because the women were causing some strife in church.

This letter is fairly short, but it packs a vital punch for all believers of Jesus and exhorts with crucial reminders of who we are called to be and how we are called to live as Christians. Followers of Jesus will find encouragement in their faith walk, and reminders to hold tight to their relationship with and commitment to Jesus.


Philippians Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
How Proverbs 31:15 encourages the godly woman to begin her day

How Proverbs 31:15 encourages the godly woman to begin her day

As a woman, a wife, mom, and homemaker I have been really convicted by Proverbs 31:15, and this verse in particular. This passage is about a Godly Woman, and v. 15 declares that “she rises while it is still night” to take care of her household. The last time I studied Proverbs 31, and I have studied this many times over the last many years in different stages of my faith and life, this really stuck with me.

She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and portions for her female servants.

Proverbs 31:15 CSB
Proverbs 31:15
Pin me for later!

Now, the point isn’t necessarily that the godly woman must get up in the middle of the night. The point is that there is godly wisdom in rising early to tend to the needs of the household. There is wisdom in taking quiet time at the beginning of the day to prepare for the day ahead.

One thing to remember is that we are ALL, men and women alike, the Bride of Christ, and should take the example and wisdom of the Proverbs 31 woman upon ourselves. We can discern that there is wisdom in rising early to prepare ourselves and our household for the day ahead. Being intentional about how we begin our day has a great impact on an entire day.

I encourage all of us to heed this wisdom and begin each day with intention, focusing on actively preparing for the day the Lord has made for us. Pray over what this means for you today and every day, and give the day to Him and His plans for you, your home, household, whatever the dynamic and circumstances. Prayerfully begin your day set on God and His plans for you.

Godly wisdom from Proverbs 31_15
Pin me for later!

Sign up for our mailing list and Download the Free Printable Bible Reading Plan

Read through the book of Proverbs in our 31 day Bible reading plan. Learn more about who God is, and what He has to say about wisdom. Let it sink in and resonate with you every day, rekindling that fire for Him in your heart.

Main Themes of Song of Solomon

Main Themes of Song of Solomon

Who wrote Song of Solomon and who did they write it to?

King Solomon of Israel wrote the Song of Solomon to his wife-to-be.


When did the events of Song of Solomon happen?

Solomon wrote this song in the early years of his reign, likely around 971-931 BC.


What is the setting of Song of Solomon?

This book is written in the setting of Solomon’s royal court in the kingdom of Israel. It is a letter between a betrothed man and wife, later husband and wife.


What is the purpose of Song of Solomon?

  1. Longing and invitation (Songs 1-2)
  2. Fulfillment of marriage (Songs 3-4)
  3. Frustrations and delights (Songs 5)
  4. Celebration (Songs 6-7)
  5. Commitment (Songs 8)

How does Song of Solomon apply to my life?

  • Expresses the love and devotion of a bride and bridegroom before and during their marriage.
  • Expresses the loving relationship of a husband and wife committed to one another, while simultaneously echoing the loving relationship between God and His people, and Christ and His Church.
  • Paints a picture of a godly wife who is healthy and well-loved, counteracting the cultural stigma of female weakness.
  • Expresses the mutual respect between a husband and wife living in this natural world.

Summary

Also called Song of Songs, this book is attributed to Solomon, King of Israel, in the early years of his reign. This is a beautiful letter between a betrothed man and wife and then later on in their maturing marriage.

This song depicts the incredible imagery of the love of God for His people, and Christ and His Church, in a way that we can understand the commitment, devotion, and love of a husband and wife. It also shows the strength, wholeness, health, and love of a woman by her husband and the mutual love between them, counteracting many cultural stigmas about women and their place in their marriage and culture.

This song is often kept from children until their teen years when they learn about the sanctity of marriage. It is such a vital explanation for Christ-followers to better understand the way our God loves us and calls us to love and be devoted to Him as well, as well as an incredible example of a godly marriage.


Grab your printable copy of this study!

Song of Songs printable Bible Study

Song of Songs Overview Pin
Pin me for later!


Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
How to speak attractively according to Proverbs 15:2

How to speak attractively according to Proverbs 15:2

Have you ever found yourself with a figurative foot in your mouth? Yeh, me too. Our words have power - the power to hurt or heal, mock or teach, divide or bring together (Proverbs 18:21; Ephesians 4:29; Proverbs 12:18; Colossians 3:8; Proverbs 15:1; Proverbs 16:24; Colossians 3:8). Proverbs 15:2 encourages us that our words matter.

The tongue of the wise makes knowledge attractive, but the mouth of fools blurts out foolishness. -

Proverbs 15:2 CSB

When we choose to speak kindness, love, and truth we are wise. We speak attractively when we speak wisely.

Proverbs 15:2
Pin me for later!

What does Proverbs 15:2 teach me about what I say?

God teaches us through His Word that we should be filled with the fruit of His Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and that we will be known by our fruits (Matt 7:16).

Are you known for your kind and loving words, or for your foul mouth?

Are you easily instigated and quick to complain or lash out?

Do you bridle your tongue and speak with patience and wisdom?

By leaning into the Lord at all times and allowing His Spirit to fill us, guide us, and lead our reactions and words we can speak wisdom and not folly. Don’t be caught blurting out unattractive foolishness. Instead be found harnessing God’s Spirit that lives within you, allowing His wisdom to flow from your lips.

Godly wisdom from Proverbs 15_2
Pin me for later!

Sign up for our mailing list and Download the Free Printable Bible Reading Plan

Read through the book of Proverbs in our 31 day Bible reading plan. Learn more about who God is, and what He has to say about wisdom. Let it sink in and resonate with you every day, rekindling that fire for Him in your heart.

Main Themes of Ecclesiastes

Main Themes of Ecclesiastes

Who wrote Ecclesiastes and who did they write it to?

Solomon, King of Israel, son of King David, is traditionally credited as the author of Ecclesiastes.


When did the events of Ecclesiastes happen?

Solomon wrote this book late in his life as a reflection of his life and experiences, likely during the 10th century BC.


What was the setting of Ecclesiastes?

This is a book of wisdom literature intended for educational purposes. It is written for a parent to their children or a teacher to their students.


What is the purpose of Ecclesiastes?

  1. Vanity of life (Ecclesiastes 1-2)
    1. Vanity of human wisdom (Ecclesiastes 1)
    2. Vanity of pleasure, labor, and wealth (Ecclesiastes 2)
  2. Limitations of life (Ecclesiastes 3-12)
    1. God’s sovereignty versus human wisdom (Ecclesiastes 3-4)
    2. Wisdom for worship and wealth (Ecclesiastes 5)
    3. Limitations of human wisdom (Ecclesiastes 6-10)
    4. Superiority of godly wisdom (Ecclesiastes 11-12)

How does Ecclesiastes apply to my life?

  • Answers the very human questions about the meaning of life and if life is worth living.
  • Teaches that the meaning of life is not found in work, wealth, desires, leisure, learning, or anything of the world, but is found only in a relationship with God.
  • Teaches that a life not focused on the Lord is futile and empty.
  • Declares our ultimate purpose is to obey and glorify God in all things, at all times, no matter the season or circumstances we find ourselves in.

Summary

Ecclesiastes is said to have been written by Solomon, King of Israel, in the later years of his life as a reflection of the godly wisdom he has gained during his lifetime and a reflection of his own life. It is an educational style book intended for the edification of a child or student.

The book focuses on declaring the meaning of human life, the vanity of human efforts without and against God, and the purpose for all of existence - to honor and glorify God within a personal relationship with Him. This book is filled with vital wisdom for all Christians to live by.


Grab your printable copy of this study!

Book of Ecclesiastes printable Bible Study

Ecclesiastes Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
Godly Wisdom from Proverbs 9:10

Godly Wisdom from Proverbs 9:10

The pivotal truth reinforced in Proverbs 9:10 is that true wisdom is from God and begins with the fear of the Lord. Our world is filled with opinions and what culture likes to call “objective truth”, which basically means that what one person believes to be true can be true for them, and what another person believes to be true can be true for them. This is completely counter to God’s Word that declares His is the only Truth there is.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 9:10 CSB

Half-truths, partial truths, objective truths, human truths are not truth but falsehoods the enemy likes us to believe so that we will be deceived against the only real truth that only comes from God.

Proverbs 9:10
Pin me for later!

If we are not seeking God’s wisdom, truth and knowledge then we are living in falsehoods and believing lies.

Seek God and His truth above all else and you will find it and be blessed with the knowledge it brings. God will reveal understanding to those who trust in His truth. Those who lean on human and worldly “truth” will find deception and destruction.

Godly wisdom from Proverbs 9_10
Pin me for later!

Sign up for our mailing list and Download the Free Printable Bible Reading Plan

Read through the book of Proverbs in our 31 day Bible reading plan. Learn more about who God is, and what He has to say about wisdom. Let it sink in and resonate with you every day, rekindling that fire for Him in your heart.

Main Themes of Book of Proverbs

Main Themes of Book of Proverbs

Who wrote Proverbs and who did they write it to?

Solomon, son of King David and Bathsheba, King of Israel wrote most of the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 30 is attributed to Agur, and Proverbs 31 to King Lemuel’s mother.


When did the events of the Book of Proverbs happen?

Most of this book is said to have been written during the 10th century BC and was completed between 729-696 BC.


What is the setting of the Book of Proverbs?

It was written mostly during Solomon’s middle-aged years while he was at the height of his power as King of Israel, leaving behind a book of practical wisdom for godly living.


What is the purpose of the Book of Proverbs?

  1. Proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs 1-29)
    1. Wisdom and godly living (Proverbs 1-4)
    2. Folly and unrighteous living (Proverbs 5-7)
    3. Tribute to wisdom (Proverbs 8-9)
    4. Foolish vs wise living (Proverbs 10-22)
    5. Saying of the wise (Proverbs 23-24)
    6. Relationship wisdom (Proverbs 25-26)
    7. The Wisdom of Godly actions (Proverbs 27-29)
  2. Wisdom of Agur (Proverbs 30)
  3. Wisdom for the godly woman (Proverbs 31)

How does the Book of Proverbs apply to my life?

  • Teaches that godly wisdom and living are more valuable than wealth and earthly things.
  • Reinforces that true wisdom is from God alone.
  • Teaches that wisdom is available to all, but all must choose the path of wisdom for themselves.
  • Explains that the wise and godly are rewarded for their righteousness. Alternatively, the foolish reap the consequences of their folly.
  • Provides practical guidelines for godly living and helps Christians to understand the difference between wisdom and foolishness, good and evil, truth and falsehood, and so much more.
  • Reinforces that godly wisdom is a choice all people must choose to accept and live in.
  • Explains that there are consequences for rejecting God’s truth.

Summary

Solomon was 20 years old when he ascended to the throne of Israel and he reigned for 40 years, from 971-931 BC. He wrote approximately 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs. Proverbs is written primarily by Solomon, who is esteemed as the wisest person of all time (1 Kings 4:29-32). His strengths were not in battle but in matters of the mind such as planning, organization, meditation, and negotiation.

Solomon wrote more of the Old Testament than any other man except Moses. He wrote Song of Solomon in his youth while writing Proverbs in his more mature years at the height of his power. Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes in his later years as a reflection of his life and experiences. Agur authored Proverbs 30 while Proverbs 31 was from King Lemuel’s mother, neither of whom is much known.


What is a Proverb?

A proverb is a brief saying as a statement of comparison. The book of Proverbs is a collection of statements about everyday life and practical guidelines for successful living as a godly person. They often speak of a “path” or “way, indicating conduct and lifestyles as a means to wise and godly living.

The primary contrasts throughout Proverbs are the differences between wisdom and foolishness, good and evil, life versus death, truth versus falsehood. Throughout the Book of Proverbs, we can all learn the Biblical wisdom of having the right relationship to God and living godly, prudent lives for Him.


Grab your printable copy of this study!

Book of Proverbs printable Bible Study
Proverbs Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
How listening to God’s instructions help you live wisely according to Proverbs 1:23

How listening to God’s instructions help you live wisely according to Proverbs 1:23

Proverbs 1:23 instructs us in the ways of wise and godly living. King Solomon, the wisest man in his time, imparts on us the call of wisdom and encourages us that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (v. 7). We are called out of “simplicity” and told that “fools hate knowledge” (v. 22).

If you respond to my warning, then I will pour out my spirit on you and teach you my words.

Proverbs 1:23 CSB
Proverbs 1:23
Pin me for later!

What does Proverbs 1:23 teach about wisdom?

Wisdom comes from God. To live a wise and godly life is to live in the ways of the Lord. If we choose to abide in the wisdom of God, striving to live a righteous life, we will seek God’s true wisdom. The consequences of rejecting God’s wisdom are grave and clear, but there is great reward in fearing the Lord and His holy righteousness.

We should never be wise in our own eyes or lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5), but lean into and trust the instruction of the Lord in all things. His is the only truth and the only trustworthy Word to live by and abide in. Heed His warning and let Him teach you His ways so that you, too, may live a wise and godly life.

Godly wisdom from Proverbs 1_23

Sign up for our mailing list and Download the Free Printable Bible Reading Plan

Read through the book of Proverbs in our 31 day Bible reading plan. Learn more about who God is, and what He has to say about wisdom. Let it sink in and resonate with you every day, rekindling that fire for Him in your heart.

Main Themes of the Book of Ephesians

Main Themes of the Book of Ephesians

Who wrote the Book of Ephesians and who did they write it for?

The book of Ephesians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the churches in Ephesus.


When did the events in the Book of Ephesians happen?

This letter was written around 61 AD during Paul's house arrest in Rome.


What is the setting of the Book of Ephesians?

Ephesus was one of the major cities within the Roman province of Asia. It was located at the intersection of many trade routes as well as the most direct route to the eastern Roman provinces, by both land and sea. Because of this, it was the most famous and populous city in Asia at the time. On one of Paul’s visits to Ephesus prior to this letter, his preaching led to so many converts that the silver trade, which supported the worship of Diana (Artemis), suffered. This caused riots that led Paul to flee to Macedonia.


What is the purpose of the Book of Ephesians?

  1. Doctrines for the body of Christ (Ephesians 1-3)
    1. Believer’s position in Christ (Ephesians 1)
    2. Believer’s past, present, and future (Ephesians 2-3)
  2. Responsibilities of the body of Christ (Ephesians 4-6)
    1. Believer’s call to responsibility and purity (Ephesians 4)
    2. Believer’s call to Spirit-filled living and spiritual warfare (Ephesians 5-6)

How does the Book of Ephesians apply to my life?

  • Paul wrote this letter to the many churches that had been planted along the routes of his missionary journeys to encourage them in faith and explain their position and responsibilities as the body of Christ.
  • Teaches about the riches believers have in Christ.
  • Lays out foundational beliefs, principles, and practical applications for all believers.
  • Encourages unity within the body of Christ.
  • Teaches about the weapons and armor of Spiritual warfare.

Grab your printable copy of this study!

Printable Ephesians Overview Bible Study
Paul's Epistles Printable Overview Studies

Summary

This letter from Paul is filled with valuable foundational truths that help believers understand our total position in our Savior. It also includes many practical life applications for these truths and our faith. Paul, being guided by the Holy Spirit, stresses the importance and goal of unity within the body of Christ, and also teaches vital tools at our disposal for combatting the very real spiritual warfare we're all facing. The main theme of Ephesians is that the Body of Christ makes up the Glorious Church, in which all believers are called to live united, and to live as though we are saved.


Ephesians Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
How to know the difference between opinion and fact according to Proverbs 2:6

How to know the difference between opinion and fact according to Proverbs 2:6

Our world that prides in having endless information at its fingertips. We boast about the things we know, the education we have received, the experiences that have taught us, and strive to put our own wisdom forward to launch ourselves up the totem poles of the social structures of culture. We think we can lean on what we know and our own opinions, gain more wisdom, and somehow make a prosperous life for ourselves on this basis. Proverbs 2:6 cuts to the truth of this dangerous way of living.

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 CSB

As Christians, we learn that the only true wisdom comes from God. It is a gift from our Heavenly Father, who speaks His knowledge to us and gives us the understanding He wants us to have. All that we have, all that we know, all that we have experienced and learned and been through... all of it is from Him, and so that we can use it to serve Him.

Proverbs 2:6
Pin me for later!

Do you use what God has blessed you with to bring Him glory, or to bring glory to yourself?

Are you striving to launch yourself into the world, or launch the gospel?

Do you strive to be a vessel or in the spotlight?

Today, remember where all wisdom comes from. Remember where all that knowledge you have stockpiled came from. Remember who gives you an understanding about any and all of it. Don't forget who gave you all you have, including the very information at your fingertips, in your memories, used in your workplace or at home. You name it, He gave it.

Use it all to serve and honor the one who gives it all for us.

Godly wisdom from Proverbs 2_6

Sign up for our mailing list and Download the Free Printable Bible Reading Plan

Read through the book of Proverbs in our 31 day Bible reading plan. Learn more about who God is, and what He has to say about wisdom. Let it sink in and resonate with you every day, rekindling that fire for Him in your heart.

What Luke 24:46-47 teaches about renewal

What Luke 24:46-47 teaches about renewal

Growing up I don't remember being taught about Jesus' sacrifice. As I read the Bible more, I remember little blips I learned in Sunday school about Jesus dying on the cross, but I don't ever recall learning why. As I grew up I suffered a lot. Tragedy after tragedy, and I cried out to God only partly believing He was there, and I remember asking Him time and again why He would make me suffer so much. I didn't understand why anyone would want to love let alone believe in a God who could leave me like that. Luke 24:46-47 was an eye-opening passage that has been a huge encouragement and has brought immense renewal to my life.

and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.

Luke 24:46-47 ESV

This post may contain affiliate links. You can find the full disclaimer here.


When I learned why Jesus died I'd not only been hurt, but I'd hurt a lot of people by that time and begun living life as if there was no God. I was fighting an inward turmoil of knowing what I was doing was not right but not really knowing why.

How did Luke 24:46-47 encourage me?

Everyone in my life at the time encouraged me to live in the way I knew in my soul was wrong, but I couldn't understand the feeling. I remember being drawn to the Bible after several years of being forcibly kept from it. I went to the local bookstore and several times I went through the Christian section. I'd literally walked through it like I was just passing through.

A half dozen times later I finally built up the courage to look at the many Bibles available. Eventually, I picked out an ESV Thinline Bible with a brown and blue cover, small and discreet, I thought. ESV was basic and easy to ready. I then spent every night secretly reading it when I was alone. I don't think I told anyone I had it for quite a while.

Luke 24:46-47
Pin me for later!

When I started reading the Bible, though, something immediately sparked in me. I began to understand what Luke was talking about. I began to learn that my suffering wasn't pointless, that the pull I felt to discover what I was missing was real, and I learned the most incredible truth - that Jesus died for me.

"What?" I remember being dumbfounded and enthralled by scripture. It humbled me so much that I cried. I finally understood that I wasn't crazy, I wasn't alone, and I wasn't the only one who felt this way. I finally understood that the way I was encouraged to live was wrong. Finally, I learned that I had a choice and an ally to do what was right.

What did Luke 24:46-47 teach me about renewal?

I learned that I could be forgiven because Jesus died for me. Jesus died so I could escape the consuming darkness. He died and rose to set me free. And not just me, ALL people, all nations, all of creation.

Jesus died and rose again three days later. Christ did this to defeat the darkness we are trapped and enslaved to before we come to know, believe and accept Him. Before I learned the truth I was in darkness. When I picked up scripture and sought out the Truth I found more than I could have ever imagined. I found freedom, forgiveness, love, and light. I found my Savior, and you can too.

Luke 24_46-47 Renewal
Pin me for later!

Will I suffer once I'm saved?

Choosing Christ is a daily, moment-by-moment choice. Allowing Him to be our strength, our light, our guide - allowing Him to be our Savior every single day, living as though we've been saved, is really challenging.

The suffering didn't all just fade away, but ever since I accepted Christ He has flooded me with light from the inside, He chased away the darkness of depression, anxiety, and healed me from the many years of abuse. He forgave me and released me from the power of sin and darkness over me, and as I continue to choose Him He continues to strengthen me against it. Life goes on, and I am stronger through it with my Savior.

Choose Christ today. Let His light fill up all the dark spaces. Accept the salvation He died and rose to give you, and let Him be your strength through the ups and downs of life ahead. Believe in Christ, His works on the cross, and resurrection from the dead for your sake and enter into His family today, forgiven and redeemed.


Dear Lord, I pray that you enter my heart today and forgive me of all my sins against You. Against You alone have I sinned, and I pray you will wash me clean of all unrighteousness. Forgive me, heal me, and strengthen me against the darkness I face every day. Today I choose to believe in Jesus Christ and accept Him as my Savior. I believe He died on the cross and rose again three days later to defeat the power of sin so that I may be forgiven and come into a relationship with You, God. I pray, Jesus, that You save me from the penalty of my sins, forgive me, and redeem me. Help me to live in a way that brings You honor and glory, giving praises to Your name always. Thank you, Lord for this incredible gift. Amen.

Grab the free Easter reading plan when you subscribe to the mailing list!

Main Themes of the Book of Colossians

Main Themes of the Book of Colossians

Who wrote the Book of Colossians and who did they write it for?

The book of Colossians is a letter from the Apostle Paul to the Colossian church.


When did the events in the Book of Colossians happen?

This letter was written while Paul was under house arrest in Rome around 60-63 AD, likely around the same time as the letter to Philemon.


What is the setting of the Book of Colossians?

Colossae was about 100 miles from Ephesus and was a predominantly Gentile church with some Jewish people. There were some false teachings infiltrating the church, one of which was heretical teachings about Jesus not being fully man and fully God, as well as legalism.


What is the purpose of the Books of Colossians?

  1. Introduction (Colossians 1)
  2. Christ’s Supremacy Displayed (Colossians 1)
  3. Christ’s Supremacy Defended (Colossians 2)
  4. Christ’s Supremacy Demanded in Christian living (Colossians 3)
  5. Conclusion (Colossians 4)

How does the Book of Colossians apply to my life?

  • Paul urges the Colossians to abide by true doctrine about the supremacy of Christ.
  • Instructs about Christ’s supremacy over all of creation for all time.
  • Explains that Christ is preeminent in the Church as its Creator and Savior, and is its Life and Leader.
  • Explains that Christ is the only way of salvation. There are no special qualifications or requirements for experiencing God’s favor - we are all equal in Christ.
  • Christ is fully man and fully God.
  • Shows how Christ’s Lordship is revealed in a personal relationship to Him, local church, family, work, and society.

Grab your printable copy of this study!

Printable Colossians Overview Bible Study
Paul's Epistles Printable Overview Studies

Summary

This letter from the Apostle Paul to the Colossian church was likely written in the same year as Philemon and Ephesians while he was under house arrest in Rome. He never visited Colossae’s predominantly Gentile church, but he wrote this letter to the new converts there to encourage them to persevere in the truth of the gospel and the supremacy of Jesus Christ.

There had been some heretical teachings that denied the supremacy and humanity of Christ, as well as other dangerous deviations from the true doctrine. This letter tackles these deviations and provides practical theology for Christian living and faith development.


Colossians Overview Pin
Pin me for later!

Have you accepted the grace of God?

If you have not accepted the grace of God and chosen to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to pray to God now and invite Him in, accept Jesus as the sacrifice for your sins, and repent of your sins. Submit it all to God, lay it at His feet, seek the forgiveness of God, welcome Him into your life, and believe that Jesus died and rose again to save you from your sins.


If you would like to learn more about salvation, you can find a couple of studies that may help here:

  1. Names of Jesus: Savior
  2. Don't Neglect Your Salvation
  3. Prayer of Salvation
  4. What is grace and why do we need it?
  5. What does it mean to be justified by grace?
  6. Don't Reject God's Grace
  7. Don't Reject Christ
  8. Godly Women - what it means to live a godly life
  9. Redeemed Women - what it means to be redeemed
  10. What is Biblical Love?
  11. What are Spiritual Gifts?
  12. How to live in Spirit and Truth
  13. How to test what is pleasing to God
  14. Names of Jesus as the Son of God
  15. Names of Jesus as the Son of Man
  16. Names of Jesus as the Truth
What John 16:33 teaches about renewal

What John 16:33 teaches about renewal

Have you ever wondered why you have gone through the difficulties, pains, and tragedies you have or are going through? Ever fought temptation, discontentment, and struggled to remain focused on God? John 16:33 provides both insight and encouragement in times of suffering.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 ESV

For over 20 years I cried out to God not knowing if He was there, if He was real, or if He cared. I struggled to believe there could be a God who could let me go through the pain I was in. Now I can look back and see what He was doing all along.

John 16:33
Pin me for later!

Jesus says "in me you may have peace". He also tells us throughout scripture to not fear, that He is with us, that He loves us - not only did He say it, but He also showed it in sacrificing Himself for all our sake's.

Jesus knew the world was a sinful broken place full of sinful broken people, just like you, me, and those who have hurt you. Yet, Jesus went to the cross and died for all of us anyway. He overcame the world, He took on the penalty - He defeated sin.

How does John 16:33 renew our spirits in times of suffering?

We are sinful people. Even so, we are called into the family of an Almighty God who loves us so much He gave His only Son to die on the cross. He did this so that we may accept Him in faith and be reconciled to our Heavenly Father. Now we may be saved through Him and have peace with God, who will guide us through this darkness.

The tribulations, difficulties, pain, and suffering doesn't end when we enter into our relationship with our Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ, BUT we are made new in Him. He lifts us by His strength, filled up with His love. We are given a mission and purpose to serve Him with the time, resources, and circumstances we are blessed with.

John 16_33 renewal
Pin me for later!

All that we have is a gift from God and should be used in service for His great commission, out of love and gratitude to Him who redeemed us through the blood of His Son. Today, choose to be content with whatever you are facing.

Choose to rest in the peace that only the Lord can provide. See all that you have (or don't have) as a blessed gift. Turn a grateful heart to Heaven and focus your attention and devotion on Him and away from the unsatisfying things of this world that will soon pass away. Give your heart to the Eternal One, who is love, who is all-powerful - who is the One True God of all creation who has overcome the world through His great sacrifice for our sakes.

Choose the peace offered to you in Christ.


Grab the free Easter reading plan when you subscribe to the mailing list!

Pin It on Pinterest