Tag: God’s Love

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE: Declare the Good News

August 18, 2025

Romans 1:16 – For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Verse Context

Paul, writing to the Christians in Rome around AD 57, makes one of the most defining statements in his entire letter. By saying “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ”, he is declaring his boldness and confidence in proclaiming Jesus despite ridicule, persecution, or opposition. The “gospel” here is the good news of salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the central message of Christianity.

The phrase “the power of God unto salvation” shows that salvation is not achieved through human wisdom, good works, or religious ritual, but through the divine power of God working in the gospel message itself. The gospel is not merely information; it is God’s active power to rescue, change, and give eternal life to those who believe.

Paul then highlights that salvation is available “to every one that believeth”, stressing that belief, or faith, is the condition. No person is excluded based on background, nationality, or history. When he says “to the Jew first, and also to the Greek”, he acknowledges God’s covenant order: the message of salvation came first through the Jews (as God’s chosen people and through whom Christ was born), but it extends equally to Gentiles (“Greeks” meaning all non-Jews). This sets the stage for one of Romans’ greatest themes: the universality of salvation in Christ.

In short, this verse shows Paul’s unshakable conviction that the gospel is powerful, sufficient, and for all people, Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. and that it alone is God’s way of salvation.

Broader Context

Romans is Paul’s most thorough letter on the doctrine of salvation, written to the believers in Rome around AD 57 while he was in Corinth. At the beginning of the letter (Romans 1), Paul introduces both himself and the central message he intends to defend: the gospel of Jesus Christ. Before he unfolds the details of human sinfulness (Romans 1:18 onward) and God’s way of justifying sinners by faith (Romans 3–5), Paul sets the tone with his personal conviction, he is not ashamed of this gospel, even though the world often scorns it. It strikes me often that persecution has never truly stopped. Paul boldly preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and paid for it with his life. Yet today, many churches dilute that same gospel until it loses its power and meaning. What they preach is no longer the gospel of Jesus, but a new message that bears little resemblance to what Paul proclaimed. The question we must face is this: are we willing to stand firm, even if it costs us friendships, family ties, or even our very lives? Or will we compromise, soften the message, or abandon the gospel altogether?

In the Roman world, shame and honor carried enormous weight. To be mocked, rejected, or persecuted could easily pressure a person into silence. The message of a crucified Savior was especially offensive to both Jews and Gentiles. For the Jews, the idea of Messiah dying on a cross was a stumbling block (they expected a conquering king). For Gentiles, the gospel appeared foolish, because crucifixion was the most humiliating form of execution reserved for the lowest criminals. Yet Paul boldly proclaims that what the world calls weak or foolish is in fact “the power of God.”

Romans 1:16 acts like a thesis statement for the whole letter. Everything Paul teaches in Romans flows out of this truth: salvation is offered freely, universally, and effectively through faith in Christ. From this point, Paul immediately transitions in verse 17 to explain how this salvation is revealed, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Together, verses 16–17 form the foundation of Romans and show why the rest of the book matters.

By anchoring his letter this way, Paul makes it clear that the gospel is not one of many religious ideas, it is God’s one way of salvation for all mankind.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness
Romans 1:16 reveals the unmatched greatness of God’s plan. The gospel is not man’s invention, but “the power of God unto salvation.” God alone can save, and He chose to do so through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Unlike human power, which fades and fails, God’s power in the gospel reaches every soul who believes, regardless of background or past sins.

For the Believer
For Christians, this verse is both encouragement and challenge. It reminds us that our faith rests in something unshakable, the power of God Himself. At the same time, it calls us to boldness. If Paul was unashamed before emperors, mobs, and eventually executioners, then we too are called to stand unashamed in our daily lives, whether before friends, coworkers, or even in hostile cultures.

Call to Action: Be intentional about sharing the gospel this week. It may be as simple as speaking a word of hope to someone, posting Scripture online, or refusing to compromise biblical truth when it would be easier to stay silent.

For the Unbeliever
For those who have not yet trusted in Christ, Romans 1:16 makes something clear: salvation is not found in religion, morality, or personal effort. It is the power of God alone, received by faith. The gospel is not an invitation to earn your way to heaven; it is God’s free gift, offered to all who believe. The same gospel Paul preached in Rome is the gospel that can save you today.

Final Encouragement

Paul’s words remind us that the gospel has never lost its power. From the first century until now, it has changed lives, healed brokenness, and brought salvation to those who believe. No matter how the world mocks or rejects it, the gospel of Jesus Christ remains God’s power to save. If we stand unashamed, we not only honor Christ but also become living testimonies of His power.

Our Prayer for You

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gospel of Jesus Christ, Your power to save. Give us courage to stand unashamed, no matter the cost. Strengthen believers to live boldly for You and soften the hearts of unbelievers to see their need for salvation in Christ. May Your Word take root in every reader today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Is Jesus Abiding With You?

June 25, 2025

John 14:23
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

Verse Context

This verse comes from Jesus’ final discourse to His disciples, the night before His crucifixion. Judas (not Iscariot) had just asked Jesus why He would reveal Himself to them and not to the world (John 14:22). Jesus responds with this powerful condition: “If a man love me, he will keep my words.”

The Greek word for “keep” is tēreō (τηρέω), meaning to guard, observe, and obey carefully. It’s not passive acknowledgment; it’s active protection and commitment to what Jesus said.

Here, Jesus links love to obedience. There is no such thing as loving Jesus while ignoring what He says. His words carry divine authority, and to honor Him is to obey Him. Notice also the promise: those who obey will experience intimate fellowship with both the Father and the Son, who will “make their abode,” their dwelling place with the obedient believer.

Commentator John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) writes, “This is not mere talk of religion; it is the life of it. The indwelling presence of God is the privilege of those who love Christ truly.”

Broader Context

John chapter 14 is one of the most comforting chapters in all of Scripture. Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure, assuring them that He is going to prepare a place for them (John 14:2), and that the Father will send the Holy Spirit to teach and comfort them (John 14:26).

This specific verse, however, cuts deep against the modern tendency to separate love from obedience. Many claim to “love Jesus” while disregarding His commands about repentance, holiness, sexual purity, church order, or doctrine. But Jesus says plainly: Only those who keep His words truly love Him. This truth is reinforced throughout Scripture:

  • Luke 6:46 – And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
  • First John 2:4 – He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

True love for Christ always results in submission to His Word. That is the mark of a true disciple.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

Jesus doesn’t just demand obedience; He promises fellowship. The Creator of the universe desires to dwell with those who love and obey Him. This is the grace of intimacy that a holy God would make His home with sinners redeemed by grace. The greatness of God is seen in both His authority and His mercy.

For the Believer

Jesus doesn’t leave room for halfhearted Christianity. Love without obedience is hypocrisy. If we say we love Him, we must keep His words, not just the ones we like, but all of them. That includes His commands about prayer, forgiving others, evangelizing the lost, denying ourselves, and standing for truth.

Call to Action

Examine your heart today. Are you truly keeping His words or just claiming His name? Let your love be proven by your obedience. Don’t compromise to please the world; cling to His Word and walk in it. He promised that if you love and obey, He and the Father will dwell with you.

For the Unbeliever

You may say you respect Jesus or even admire Him. But admiration is not enough. Jesus said that love is shown through obedience. If you’ve never surrendered your life to Christ, this verse is a personal invitation: love Him by trusting Him, obeying His words, and turning from sin. He will come into your life—not as a guest, but as Lord.

Final Encouragement

John 14:23 is not a suggestion, it’s a dividing line. Whoever loves Jesus will keep His Word. There’s no separation between faith and obedience. And for those who obey, there is a glorious promise: God Himself will come and dwell with them. That is love, mercy, and holiness all wrapped in one.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us that true love is found in obedience. Help us to take Your words seriously and to guard them with our lives. May our love not be lip service, but proven in action. Dwell with us, Lord, make our lives a temple where Your Word is cherished and obeyed. For those still far from You, open their eyes and call them by name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

Today’s Daily Bible Verse: Satan is In the Church Too

June 6, 2025

First Timothy 4:1–2
Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

VERSE CONTEXT

The apostle Paul, a seasoned preacher and church planter, is writing to his young spiritual son Timothy (Tih-muh-thee), who is now a pastor in the city of Ephesus (Eh-feh-sus)—a place known for idol worship, worldly pleasures, and deep spiritual confusion. Paul writes to encourage Timothy and to warn him—and the whole church—that false teachers and spiritual deceivers will absolutely come. And they won’t just be outside the church; they’ll come from within.

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly…”

This means the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, is making something very clear, loud and direct. This isn’t a whisper or a quiet impression. It’s not just Paul’s opinion. Paul is saying, “Pay attention, God is warning us directly!”

Word Picture for a child: Imagine a firefighter shouting through a bullhorn: “Fire is coming—get out now!” That’s what “speaks expressly” means. It’s not a suggestion; it’s an urgent warning to protect you.

“…that in the latter times…”

The phrase “latter times” refers to the time period between Jesus’ resurrection and His return, so we’re in those times right now. But Paul especially means the final chapters of this age, when truth will be harder to find, and deception will become stronger. Think of this as the last part of the race, when you’re the most tired, but the danger is the greatest. That’s the “latter times.”

“…some shall depart from the faith…”

This doesn’t just mean people leaving a church building. It means turning their hearts and beliefs away from the true gospel of Jesus Christ. A key verse that demands attention by those being told that once you are saved you are always saved. That is a lie straight from the lips of satan. They once claimed to believe the truth, but they were led away from it by something more attractive, more popular, or more comfortable, their fleshly desire for sin. This is like a kid walking off the path in a dark forest because he thinks he hears music or sees a shortcut, but he’s actually walking away from the light and toward danger. The path was good. It was not always smooth and straight. It went uphill and downhill. But it was the path that he knew would lead home. Then he allowed himself to be distracted with this noise. Then he started to think about that noise and became interested and curious in the noise. So he pursued the noise. Soon, the safety of the path could not keep him and his desire for sin cost him eternal life.

“…giving heed to seducing spirits…”

To “give heed” means to pay attention to or listen closely to something.
Seducing here means enticing, charming, or tricking someone by making something dangerous sound beautiful or exciting. These aren’t human spirits. These are evil spirits, working behind the scenes to whisper lies that sound like truth.

Word Picture: Think of a fisherman dropping shiny bait into the water. The fish thinks it’s food, but there’s a hook hidden inside. That’s what a seducing spirit does; it puts a hook in a lie and hides it in something that looks good. So when someone hears, “God wouldn’t really judge people,” or “The Bible doesn’t mean that anymore,” they’re listening to the same kind of evil seducing spirit that told Eve, “Ye shall not surely die.”

“…and doctrines of devils;”

Doctrines means teachings or beliefs. And these aren’t just bad opinions; Paul says they come from devils. The word “devils” in the Bible refers to demons, the fallen angels who followed Satan when he rebelled against God. So “doctrines of devils” are demonic teachings; things demons want people to believe so that they won’t follow God’s truth. These teachings might sound loving, inclusive, or even spiritual, but they deny what God has said. They might include: “All religions lead to the same God” or “Love is love, God just wants you to be happy” or “God won’t punish anyone, it’s all grace.” These are not just wrong, they are demon-inspired lies meant to lead people to eternal death.

Word Picture: It’s like drinking from a beautiful cup filled with poison. Just because it’s shiny doesn’t mean it’s safe.

“Speaking lies in hypocrisy…”

The false teachers Paul is warning about are not just mistaken, they’re two-faced. They preach things they know aren’t true, or that they don’t even follow themselves. This is hypocrisy, pretending to be something you’re not. Example: A man might tell others to be holy, but he’s secretly living in sin. He lies, smiles, and sounds spiritual, but God sees his heart.

“…having their conscience seared with a hot iron.”

This is a very powerful image. The conscience is the part of you that knows right from wrong. But Paul says these people’s consciences are seared, like when you burn skin so badly it becomes numb, hard, and scarred.

Word Picture: Imagine touching a hot stove and getting burned. If you kept burning your hand again and again, it would eventually lose all feeling. That’s what happens to the heart when people keep rejecting God’s truth.
They can’t feel guilt anymore. They stop caring. They defend evil and mock good.

This verse is not just a warning about other people, it’s a warning to us, too. If we ever start thinking, “Maybe that part of the Bible doesn’t apply anymore…” or “Maybe God wouldn’t actually punish someone for that…”, we need to check our hearts immediately, because we might be listening to a seducing spirit.

BROADER CONTEXT

The Book of First Timothy is one of Paul’s pastoral epistles, written around A.D. 62–64 while Paul was in Macedonia. He wrote it to Timothy, a young pastor left in charge of the church at Ephesus (Eh-feh-sus). Ephesus was a city steeped in idol worship, particularly of the goddess Diana (or Artemis), a place overflowing with false religion, sexual immorality, and spiritual confusion. Paul knew that this church, planted in a dark culture, would face attacks from within and without.

In First Timothy chapter 4, Paul turns Timothy’s attention to spiritual deception, especially how false teachings will increase as the church age continues. He warns that many people, even those who once claimed to be part of the faith, will fall away because they listen to lies. These lies will sound spiritual and morally kind, but they will deny God’s truth, twist Scripture, and call evil “good.”

Paul doesn’t just warn Timothy; he charges him to stand firm, teach the truth boldly, and train others to stay grounded in sound doctrine. He reminds him to reject profane and old wives’ fables (1 Timothy 4:7) and to be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity (verse 12). The whole chapter is about guarding the truth, protecting the sheep, and recognizing deception, especially when it disguises itself as righteousness.

Common False Teachings Today (Doctrines of Devils)

Paul says these false doctrines are not just mistakes, they are from devils. The following teachings are modern examples of what Paul warned about:

  1. Women as Pastors or Preachers in Authority over Men
    • First Timothy 2:12 says: “But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”
    • Yet today, many churches openly defy this. That’s not progressive, that’s rebellion.
    • Paul warned that such teachings are departures from the faith.
  2. Universalism (Everyone Will Be Saved)
    • This teaching claims a loving God wouldn’t send anyone to hell. But Jesus said in Matthew 7:13–14 that “broad is the way that leadeth to destruction” and many are on it.
    • To deny hell is to call Jesus a liar, and that’s demonic.
  3. Prosperity Gospel (Health and Wealth)
    • This lie teaches that if you have enough faith, God will make you rich and healthy. But Second Timothy 3:12 says: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”
    • The apostles were poor and persecuted, not flying in jets.
  4. Affirming Sinful Lifestyles
    • Churches now celebrate or excuse homosexuality, fornication, adultery, transgenderism, and more, claiming “God is love.”
    • But Romans 1:32 says: “Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.”
  5. Faith Deconstruction and Redefining Scripture
    • “Did God really say that?” is the same satanic question the serpent asked Eve. Many now say the Bible is culturally outdated, or should evolve with society.
    • This undermines the authority of Scripture and teaches rebellion as virtue.
  6. Contemplative Mysticism and New Age Practices in Churches
    • Yoga, breath prayer, “Christian” tarot cards, and other pagan rituals are sneaking into worship. Paul warned of seducing spirits, and that’s exactly what these practices involve.
  7. Worship of Self (You Are Enough, Follow Your Heart)
    • These messages sound uplifting but are rooted in pride. Jeremiah 17:9 says: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”
    • Any gospel that focuses on self instead of Christ is false.

Present Day False Teachers and Movements

These names and movements often blend truth with error, but still qualify as dangerous according to Paul’s warning:

  • Joyce Meyer, Beth Moore, Paula White – women who teach men with pastoral authority, directly violating 1 Timothy 2:12.
  • Joel Osteen, T.D. Jakes – prosperity gospel, refusal to preach on sin, hell, or repentance.
  • Rob Bell – teaches there is no hell; known for “Love Wins” and universalism.
  • Carl Lentz (former Hillsong NYC) – moral compromise, celebrity worship, and lukewarm doctrine.
  • The ELCA and PCUSA – mainline denominations affirming LGBT clergy and rejecting biblical authority.

Even entire movements like Progressive Christianity are rooted in doctrines of devils. They soften the gospel, downplay sin, redefine grace, and teach that Scripture is more symbolic than true. This is the seduction Paul warned about. The Holy Spirit’s warning in 1 Timothy 4:1–2 is not just about obvious heretics, it’s about anyone who causes us to doubt or disobey the Word of God. Whether it’s Eve in the garden or a preacher in a pulpit, the method is the same: “Did God really say…?” And today, Satan is still asking that question, but he’s asking it in Christian bookstores, on social media, and even in churches.

APPLICATION

Appreciating God’s Greatness

In First Timothy 4:1–2, we see that God does not leave His people in the dark. He warns us, not vaguely or softly, but expressly, directly, and with urgency. The Holy Spirit is not quiet in these verses. He’s shouting the alarm like a watchman on a city wall. This tells us something beautiful and terrifying: God sees the storm of deception coming long before it arrives. And because He loves us, He calls it out before we’re caught in it.

He doesn’t just warn us about evil; He describes how it will sound, how it will spread, and how it will be disguised. That kind of detailed love is the mark of a faithful Shepherd. Our God is great not only in power, but in wisdom, protection, and truth. We serve a God who doesn’t just give us comfort, He gives us clarity.

For the Believer

Christian, this verse is for us. It’s not just about “those bad people out there.” Paul says “some shall depart from the faith.” That means some who claimed to walk with Christ will fall into the trap of false teaching because they listened too long, questioned too much, and refused to hold fast to truth.

This passage calls us to three things:

  1. Guard your ears. What are you listening to? Podcasts, preachers, influencers, are they speaking truth, or are they mixing truth with error? Remember: seducing spirits don’t sound dangerous. They sound inspiring.
  2. Examine your heart. Do you feel uneasy when the Bible says something hard? When Scripture speaks of judgment, holiness, or submission, do you feel tempted to soften it, explain it away, or ignore it? That discomfort may be the first whisper of the same serpent who asked, “Yea, hath God said?”
  3. Stand firm in the Word. We must be like the Bereans (Acts 17:11) who searched the Scriptures daily to see whether what they were told was true. You are not called to be “open-minded”; you are called to be biblically grounded.

Call to Action

  • Turn off the voices that contradict God’s Word, even if they call themselves Christian.
  • Test every teaching against the full counsel of Scripture.
  • Teach your children and others to recognize truth from lies. Help them understand that not all “Christian” messages are of Christ.
  • Warn others in love. If you see someone being led astray, speak up. The most loving thing you can do is point them back to truth, even if it costs you popularity or comfort.

For the Unbeliever

If you’re not a follower of Christ, this passage is not just a warning, it’s a mirror. It shows what the enemy of your soul is doing behind the scenes. Every time you hear, “God is too loving to punish sin,” or “The Bible is outdated,” or “Everyone goes to heaven,” you are being lied to by devils, according to Scripture.

Satan doesn’t need you to become a witch or a criminal. He just needs you to believe a false version of Christianity that keeps you feeling spiritual while you reject the truth. His goal is not to terrify you, it’s to soothe you to sleep… right into Hell.

But the same God who speaks this warning also speaks an invitation: Come to Jesus. Now. Before your conscience is seared, before the lies feel like truth. Confess that you are a sinner. Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose from the grave. And trust Him, not your heart, not your favorite preacher, not your feelings.

John 14:6 – Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

He is the Truth, and He is calling you out of deception and into everlasting life.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

First Timothy 4:1–2 is more than a warning, it’s a wake-up call. We are living in the very days Paul described. False teachers are multiplying. Doctrines of devils are paraded as truth. Seducing spirits are whispering in churches, classrooms, TV shows, podcasts, and pulpits. Feminism disguises itself as empowerment and strength, and allures women with beautiful independence which seems great to the flesh but is totally anti-scripture. And worst of all, many hearts have become so numb to conviction that they can no longer feel the sting of sin.

But you, brother, sister—you are not called to slumber. You are called to discernment, to faithfulness, to unwavering obedience. You are called to test the spirits, love the truth, and warn others with the courage of Christ. If the Word of God feels harsh, it’s because the lies of the world have dulled your ears. If the truth of Scripture feels offensive, ask yourself, “who taught you to feel that way?” If your conscience is still tender, praise God. But if it’s been seared, plead with the Lord to renew your mind and restore your fear of Him. Don’t be deceived. Don’t be led astray. Stay awake. Stay armored. Stay faithful.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for speaking so clearly through Your Word. Thank You for warning us, not to shame us, but to save us. Lord, open our ears to Your voice and close them to the lies of the enemy. Give us hearts that love truth, even when it is hard, and the courage to reject what is false, even when it is popular. We pray for those who have wandered into deception. Open their eyes. Soften their hearts. Bring them back to the faith. Protect our families, our children, and our churches from doctrines of devils. Raise up bold preachers who will not bend, and give us humble hearts that will obey. Keep us alert. Keep us holy. Keep us walking in the truth of Jesus Christ, the only Way, the only Truth, and the only Life.
In Jesus name we pray,
Amen.

CLOSING

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved—so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

Daily Bible Verse: Is God Still There?

May 29, 2025

Deuteronomy 2:7
For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.

Verse Context

The Book of Deuteronomy is a series of final sermons given by Moses to the people of Israel before they entered the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, Moses is recounting their journey through the wilderness—a 40-year period of wandering brought on by their unbelief and disobedience in Numbers 13–14. Yet despite their failure and delay, God’s faithfulness remained unbroken.

This verse, Deuteronomy 2:7, is spoken in a moment of reflection. The people are now standing near the border of the land God had promised, and Moses reminds them that through every year, every hardship, and every mile of wandering, God never left them. Even when they were disciplined, they were still sustained. Even when they walked through desolate lands, their shoes didn’t wear out (Deuteronomy 29:5), they received manna from heaven (Exodus 16:35), and their needs were met.

Let’s look again at the verse itself:

“For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand:” — This is a sweeping statement. Even in the wilderness, even in hardship, God was blessing the daily labor of His people. The Hebrew word for “blessed” (not included here but behind the English text) suggests an ongoing, active favor. It wasn’t random. It was deliberate.

“He knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness:” — This isn’t merely geographical. The word “walking” here conveys the idea of a long, personal journey. God didn’t just chart the map from above—He observed, understood, and walked with them. The “great wilderness” wasn’t an accident; it was a season with divine purpose.

“These forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee;” — The number forty in Scripture often symbolizes a period of testing, proving, or preparation. These were not wasted years. They were years where God’s presence never departed.

“Thou hast lacked nothing.” — This is a powerful declaration. Though they didn’t have luxury, they had sufficiency. Though they didn’t have cities, they had shelter. Though they didn’t feast, they were fed. What the world may call lack, God calls preparation. And His provision was perfect for what they needed in that season.

What’s especially moving about this verse is that it wasn’t spoken at the end of Israel’s entire story—but at the end of a long, difficult chapter. It was a reminder that even in discipline, even in delay, God was faithful. And if He was faithful then, He will be faithful now.

This is the tone the Holy Spirit wants us to carry as we move into the broader context and application: a pastoral encouragement to those who might still feel like they’re wandering. Because the same God who walked with them through the wilderness, walks with us still.

Broader Context

Deuteronomy is the fifth and final book of the Torah (the Pentateuch), traditionally attributed to Moses as its author. The name “Deuteronomy” means “second law,” not because it contains new commandments, but because it repeats, expounds, and reinforces the law given at Mount Sinai to a new generation of Israelites. The people who stand on the edge of the Promised Land in this book are not the same ones who stood there nearly forty years earlier in the Book of Numbers. The previous generation died in the wilderness due to their unbelief and rebellion (Numbers 14:29–35). Now, this new generation needs to hear the covenant again—fresh, personal, and binding.

Deuteronomy chapter 2 specifically covers a portion of Israel’s wilderness journey, highlighting the sovereign guidance of God as the people traveled through the territories of Edom, Moab, and Ammon. These lands belonged to distant relatives of Israel—descendants of Esau and Lot—and God commanded Israel not to provoke them or take their lands. Instead, He instructed them to buy food and water, as a demonstration of respect for boundaries and obedience to His leadership (Deuteronomy 2:4–6).

It is in this context that verse 7 appears like a quiet oasis of reflection in the middle of a historical retelling. Moses pauses to acknowledge that despite the years of wandering, despite being denied entry into these regions, and despite all the trials they endured, God was present and faithful every step of the way. This isn’t a random verse—it’s a pivot point in the chapter. From here, the narrative shifts from traveling in circles to approaching conquest. It is a reminder that their survival wasn’t accidental—it was sustained by God.

More broadly, within the entire book of Deuteronomy, chapter 2 serves to highlight one of the book’s main themes: God’s covenant faithfulness, even when His people fail. The structure of Deuteronomy is deeply covenantal. Moses, under divine inspiration, is acting like a covenant mediator, reminding the people of the stipulations of God’s law, the historical evidence of God’s faithfulness, and the blessings and curses that will come depending on their obedience (see chapters 27–30).

Deuteronomy emphasizes the importance of memory—remembering what God has done (like sustaining them through the wilderness), so that they won’t forget Him when they enter into prosperity. Moses says in Deuteronomy 8:2:
“And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness…”

In this way, Deuteronomy 2:7 is not just about God’s provision. It is a testimony of continuity: the God who was with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; who delivered them from Egypt with a mighty hand; who sustained them in the desert—He is the same God preparing to lead them into promise.

In the grand scheme of Scripture, Deuteronomy reminds us that God’s covenant is not based on convenience or comfort—it is based on commitment and character. He keeps His word, not because His people are flawless, but because He is faithful. This makes Deuteronomy 2:7 a timeless reminder to every generation: even when we walk through barren places, we are never abandoned. God is working, watching, providing, and shaping us for what comes next.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

Deuteronomy 2:7 is not a verse that glorifies prosperity—it glorifies presence. “The LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.” What an astonishing testimony—not because they had abundance, but because they had Him. God is not great simply because He gives; He is great because He stays. When the sandals did not wear out and the manna came down day by day, it wasn’t a display of luxury—it was the quiet miracle of sustenance. And it was enough.

God’s greatness is shown not by removing the wilderness, but by walking with us through it. Just as He led Israel by a cloud by day and fire by night, He leads His people still—with gentleness, faithfulness, and purpose—even when we can’t see the path clearly. There is no night too dark for His presence, and no desert too dry for His provision.

For the Believer

Every believer will go through their own wilderness. It may not be sand and stone, but it will be marked by pain, sorrow, loss, or confusion. And in those seasons, it’s natural to ask, “Is God still with me?” The wilderness tests more than your strength—it tests your faith.

The Israelites who wandered for forty years were not all alike. Many, tragically, chose to give up their faith. They believed the giants in the land were bigger than the God who delivered them. And because of that unbelief, they died in the wilderness. But to the ones who held fast—to Joshua, to Caleb, to the faithful remnant—God was everything He promised to be. He was enough. Their feet kept walking. Their needs were met. They lived to see the Promised Land.

The lesson is painfully clear: unbelief leads to death, but faith leads to fulfillment. It does not mean the journey will be without tears. It means that God is not a liar—and when He says He will never leave us, He means it.

So when the pain is so deep that words cannot form…
When cancer steals what medicine cannot restore…
When a child is taken and there are no answers…
When you lose someone you love, and you didn’t get to say what you needed to say…

God has not abandoned you.

The cross is our proof that He never looks away from suffering. Jesus wept at death, groaned at injustice, and carried every grief to Calvary—not so we would never suffer, but so we would never suffer alone.

Hold on, beloved. Hold on when it hurts. Hold on when you don’t understand. Your wilderness is not proof of God’s absence—it is the place where He draws you into deeper dependence and closer intimacy. And like Israel, you will look back one day and say, “He was with me. I lacked nothing.”

Call to Action

If you are a believer walking through that wilderness right now, don’t stop walking. Don’t curse God in the desert. Don’t let the dryness make you forget the Deliverer. Cry if you must. Grieve if you must. But do not let go of your faith. Even if all you can do is whisper, “I believe—help my unbelief,” you are still moving forward.

Surround yourself with those who will remind you of His faithfulness. Stay rooted in the Word. Recall your own Ebenezer stones—moments when you know God provided. And know this: the Promised Land isn’t always found here on earth. For some, the promise is fulfilled in eternity. But it is fulfilled. It is never forgotten.

For the Unbeliever

If you do not yet know Jesus Christ—if faith is something you’ve never embraced, or perhaps something you walked away from—you need to hear this clearly:

You were never meant to walk through this life alone. Your pain, your losses, your guilt—they are not ignored by God. He sees them. But more than that, He sent His Son to walk into your brokenness and offer redemption.

The same God who walked with Israel through their wilderness wants to walk with you. But unlike them, your journey begins at the cross—the place where Jesus bore your sin, your shame, and your sorrow. It is there that the curse is lifted, and the covenant begins.

Will you surrender to Him today? Not because He promises to remove every hardship, but because He promises never to leave you in it alone. Because only through Jesus can you say, even in the desert, “I have lacked nothing.”

Final Encouragement

God never promised that following Him would mean a life without sorrow, but He did promise His presence in every step. Deuteronomy 2:7 reminds us that even after forty years of wandering, struggle, and waiting, God had never let His people go. He walked with them. He provided for them. He blessed the works of their hands. And He never let them lack what they needed to finish the journey.

If you are in a season of pain, confusion, grief, or uncertainty, let this verse be your anchor: “These forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.” That same God walks with you today.

Your sorrow is seen. Your waiting is known. And your wilderness is not the end of the story.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for being a God who does not abandon Your children in the wilderness. You are faithful in every season—when the way is clear, and when the way is hard. Thank You for the testimony of Israel, who walked for forty years yet lacked nothing, because You were with them.

For those among us who are hurting—those grieving deep losses, enduring illness, or wandering through confusion—we ask for Your comforting presence to meet them right where they are. Help us to cling to You, even when we cannot see the Promised Land ahead. Strengthen our faith to endure, our hearts to trust, and our eyes to see Your hand in every provision.

Remind us, Lord, that Your presence is our portion, and Your promises are true. Carry us when we cannot walk, and feed us daily with the Bread of Heaven. We trust You. We need You. And we love You.

In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.

Closing

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

You are loved—so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE: Suffering Lasts for only a Season

May 20, 2025

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

Verse Context

This verse was written by the prophet Jeremiah to the exiled Jews in Babylon. Though they were suffering in captivity, far from their homeland and grieving the loss of everything familiar, God sent them this message to remind them that their exile was not the end of the story. The Lord declared, “I know the thoughts that I think toward you.” The word “thoughts” here can also mean plans, intentions, or purposes. God was revealing that even while they were in punishment for sin, He had not abandoned them.

The phrase “to give you an expected end” literally means a future and a hope. This wasn’t a shallow motivational slogan, it was a promise from the covenant-keeping God who disciplines with purpose and restores with power. The broader message of Jeremiah 29 includes a warning not to listen to false prophets who offered false hope. Instead, God called His people to seek Him, pray, and wait on His timing (see Jeremiah 29:12–14).

Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Presbyterian) commented that God’s thoughts toward His people are “thoughts of peace, not of evil.” Even when affliction seems harsh, God’s plan is peace, not destruction. He waits to be gracious, and every hard season has an appointed end in His sovereign design.

Albert Barnes (1798–1870, Presbyterian) adds that “an expected end” means more than just deliverance, it means a hoped-for outcome, the very thing we dare not dream of until God says it aloud. He intends good, even when the way seems long.

Broader Context

Jeremiah 29 is a letter to the captives, those who had been taken from Judah to Babylon after the first waves of conquest. Many were discouraged, unsure if they would ever return to Jerusalem. False prophets were rising up, giving empty words that their time in Babylon would be short. But the true word from God was different: they would be there for seventy years (Jeremiah 29:10), and then, only then, would God bring them back.

The entire book of Jeremiah balances warning and hope. Jeremiah himself was hated for his honesty because he didn’t sugarcoat God’s message. But here, in the middle of hard truth, comes one of the most comforting verses in Scripture. Not because it promises instant rescue, but because it promises real hope, rooted in God’s sovereignty. The book of Jeremiah assures us that even in judgment, God’s mercy is present, and His purpose is always redemptive.

Application

Appreciating God’s Greatness

This verse shows us that God is not a passive observer of our lives. He is actively thinking, planning, and working for our future, even when we can’t see the path ahead. It reveals a God who is not reactive, but sovereign and intentional. He doesn’t just respond to what happens, He ordains what happens for a holy and hopeful end.

For the Believer

Life doesn’t always make sense in the short term. Sometimes it feels like God is silent, or like we’re stuck in a season that doesn’t match the promises we’ve read. But this verse reminds us that even in the long seasons, God is still faithful. He’s not waiting to decide what to do with us, He already knows the end He’s bringing us to.

Call to Action:
If you’re feeling confused about your purpose, overwhelmed by waiting, or frustrated by slow progress, go to the Lord in prayer. Like the captives in Babylon, pray honestly, seek Him diligently, and trust that God has not forgotten you. Even His delays are part of your development. Trust the end He has planned.

For the Unbeliever

You may wonder if God has any plan for someone like you. This verse answers with a resounding yes. Even though Israel was in exile because of sin, God still pursued them. If you feel like you’ve wandered too far, this verse invites you back. God’s plan for you starts with repentance and leads to hope, not because you’re worthy, but because He is merciful.

Final Encouragement

When it feels like your life is stalled or sidetracked, remember this: God knows exactly where you are, and exactly where He’s taking you. His plans are not vague or reactionary, they are filled with peace, not destruction. And even if the road takes longer than you expected, He is leading you toward an end that is worth waiting for.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for knowing the plans You have for us, even when we do not. In our moments of doubt, fear, or discouragement, remind us that we are not forgotten. Help us to trust that Your timing is perfect, Your discipline is loving, and Your promises are sure. Strengthen us to wait with hope and walk with faith, believing that You are always working for our good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

You are loved—so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

Shalom Shalom.