Tag: love

TODAY’S DAILY BIBLE VERSE

Job chapter 5 verses 17–18:
17 Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: 18 For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.

Verse Context

These two verses are spoken by Eliphaz (El-ih-faz), one of Job’s three friends. Although Eliphaz is later rebuked by God for falsely accusing Job (see Job chapter 42 verse 7), we must not throw away everything he says—especially when what he speaks aligns with the greater truth later confirmed in scripture. This passage about correction reflects a profound truth repeated in both the Old and New Testaments: God corrects those He loves. Even if Eliphaz misapplied it to Job’s specific suffering, the principle remains eternally valid.

“Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth:”

The word happy here doesn’t mean giddy or emotionally cheerful. It points to a deep sense of blessedness or favor, similar to the meaning of blessed in the Beatitudes of Matthew chapter 5. The Hebrew word translated “correcteth” carries the idea of instruction, reproof, and discipline—it is a shaping, not a punishment. The correction of God is aimed at producing holiness, wisdom, and restoration—not wrath. In other words, the man who is being corrected is not being abandoned by God, but noticed and shaped by Him.

“Therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:”

The word chastening here is key. It is not mere punishment, but fatherly discipline. This is the same teaching found in Proverbs chapter 3 verses 11–12: “My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” Later, the apostle Paul quotes this in Hebrews chapter 12 verses 5–6, showing that this is a cross-generational truth: correction is a sign of sonship. To despise it would be to misunderstand its purpose. To welcome it is to trust that God sees more than we do.

“For he maketh sore, and bindeth up: he woundeth, and his hands make whole.”

This verse draws from the imagery of a healer or surgeon—someone who must cut in order to cure. The wound is not the end. The hand that strikes is the same hand that heals. God does not wound like an enemy—He wounds like a physician. He brings the brokenness that leads to repentance and healing. He causes pain to prevent ruin. The phrase “maketh sore” can be understood as affliction that softens or humbles, but then He “bindeth up” with the care and precision of a divine doctor. No part of this correction is wasteful. It is all part of God’s design for sanctification.

What makes this passage especially powerful in the Book of Job is that Job himself does not yet know that his suffering came by Satan’s hand—with God’s permission. Eliphaz assumes Job is being chastened directly by God for wrongdoing. That assumption is wrong. But the broader point remains true: when God does correct His people, He always does so with purpose, compassion, and restoration in mind.

And here lies the tension that makes this passage rich with application: Job thinks God is punishing him; Eliphaz thinks Job is being rebuked for hidden sin; but we, the reader, know Job is being proven faithful by a trial he does not understand. It reminds us that not all suffering is correction—but when correction does come, it is a gift, not a curse. God never corrects to destroy—He corrects to refine.

In this, we are reminded of what John MacArthur (b. 1939, Reformed Baptist) has often said about scripture: “The Bible offends because it confronts. And it confronts because it corrects.” Just as the world recoils from being told it is wrong, so our flesh resists the rebuke of God. But for the believer, correction is not condemnation—it is evidence that we are His.

Broader Context

The Book of Job, as one of the earliest recorded books of the Bible, offers wisdom not from Mount Sinai or the Law, but from the desert of suffering. It is a poetic, theological masterpiece that teaches not only how to suffer, but how to think rightly about suffering, even when the reasons for it are hidden from human eyes.

Job is introduced in chapter 1 as “perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.” He was not being punished for wrongdoing—but he was being tested. Behind the scenes in chapter 1, Satan appears before God and challenges Job’s integrity, implying that Job is only righteous because of the blessings he has received. God permits Satan to strip Job of his wealth, his children, and eventually his health, but without cause (Job 2:3, “and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause”). Job does not know this heavenly conversation occurred. As far as he can see, God is silent, and the pain is relentless.

Enter Job’s three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad (Bil-dad), and Zophar (Zoh-far). They attempt to explain Job’s suffering through the lens of a retributive theology: you must be suffering because you sinned. While they speak many things that are true in general, they apply those truths wrongly to Job’s situation. Eliphaz, who speaks in chapters 4 and 5, is the first to speak, and chapter 5 verses 17–18 are part of his encouragement to Job to accept God’s correction, repent, and be healed. The problem? Job has nothing to repent of—his trial is not disciplinary but demonstrative.

Still, Eliphaz’s words reflect an eternal principle affirmed elsewhere in Scripture. Correction, when it does come, is a grace of God. That’s why this passage has been preserved. Even when spoken by a flawed source, the wisdom remains.

This is a major theme of the entire Bible:

Deuteronomy 8:5, “Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the Lord thy God chasteneth thee.”

Psalm 94:12: “Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O Lord, and teachest him out of thy law.”

Proverbs 3:11–12, “My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth…”

Hebrews 12:6, “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”

But there’s something more happening here in the broader arc of Job. This moment points us toward a Savior who also suffered though innocent. Like Job, Jesus was sinless. Like Job, He was misunderstood and accused of being under God’s judgment. Like Job, He endured silence from heaven. But unlike Job, Jesus chose the suffering so He might redeem those who deserve it. Job is not the Christ—but he is a shadow pointing toward Him. His faithfulness in trials sets the stage for the greater faithfulness of Christ in Gethsemane and at Calvary.

By the end of the book, God speaks. He never gives Job a direct answer to the “why,” but He gives Job something better: a vision of Himself. And after encountering God’s greatness, Job repents—not for sin that caused his suffering, but for doubting God’s wisdom. He says in 42:5, “I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.” This is the goal of all God’s correction, discipline, and even silence: that we might see Him more clearly and trust Him more deeply.

Finally, in the last chapter, Job is restored, not because he earned it, but because God is faithful. He is blessed with twice as much as he had before, surrounded by children, honored by friends, and vindicated by the Lord Himself.

The broader context reminds us:

  • Not all suffering is because of sin.
  • But when correction does come, it is love in action.
  • And whether the trial is for testing or correction, God will not waste it.

APPLICATION

Appreciating God’s Greatness

These verses, “Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth… he woundeth, and his hands make whole,” draw our attention to a truth that is both humbling and exalting: God’s greatness is not only revealed in His power to bless, but also in His authority to correct. That God would take time to discipline us shows that He is not a distant deity, but a present Father. His greatness is not in pampering us with ease, but in shaping us into holiness.

We serve a God who is so sovereign that He can allow suffering without relinquishing control, so wise that He can use pain as a tool of growth, and so good that He never wounds without also preparing to heal. As Job later learned, God’s silence is not absence. And His correction is not cruelty—it is covenant care. He is the potter, we are the clay (Isaiah chapter 64 verse 8), and sometimes shaping us requires pressure, fire, and even pain.

For the Believer
If you are a believer enduring hardship, this passage should be a stabilizing anchor. It reminds you that not every trial is a punishment—but even if it is correction, that is not bad news. In fact, it’s the opposite. It is proof that you are not illegitimate. You are loved. You are being refined.

The flesh hates correction, especially spiritual correction. It hurts our pride. It exposes our weaknesses. It reminds us we are not in control. But God is not seeking to shame you—He is shaping you. As John MacArthur rightly pointed out, the Bible offends because it confronts. It does not massage egos—it pierces hearts (Hebrews chapter 4 verse 12). But that piercing leads to life.

Sometimes what feels like affliction is actually preservation. A closed door, a lost opportunity, a hard conversation, or a sermon that stings may all be tools in the hands of a faithful Father who refuses to leave you as you are.

Call to Action for Believers:
Ask yourself: “Is God correcting me in this season?”

If yes, don’t run from it. Lean into it. Learn from it. Let Him bind you up after He has humbled you.

If not, and your suffering is more like Job’s (a test, not a correction), then stay faithful. God sees the way you take (Job 23:10), and you shall come forth as gold.

For the Unbeliever

If you are not yet a follower of Christ, this verse may sound harsh at first. Why would God correct you? Why would He wound you?

The truth is: you are already wounded. Sin has already done the damage. What God offers through His correction is a chance at healing. He is not trying to hurt you—He is trying to rescue you from greater pain. That’s why Jesus came. That’s why the gospel convicts. That’s why the Bible cuts. But it cuts only so it can heal.

Correction is God’s invitation to you. He is saying, “Let me show you the truth about yourself—so I can show you the truth about My Son.”

You may feel wounded, but only Jesus can make you whole. Turn to Him—not just to escape pain, but to walk in truth. He will correct you, cleanse you, and claim you as His own.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

Job chapter 5 verses 17 and 18 are a divine reminder that painful seasons are not purposeless seasons. Whether we are being corrected for sin, refined through trials, or tested like Job for the sake of unseen heavenly purposes, God remains faithful. He never wounds without intent. He never corrects without love. And He never leaves His children to heal alone.

If you are in a season of hardship, don’t despise the chastening of the Lord. Receive it as a mark of sonship, a tool of transformation, and a reminder that God is not done with you yet. Correction may humble you—but it will never harm you beyond what grace can heal.

He maketh sore, and bindeth up. He woundeth, and His hands make whole.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being a God who does not leave us to ourselves. Thank You for loving us enough to correct us, to refine us, and even to wound us when it brings healing. Help us not to despise Your chastening, but to embrace it with faith, knowing that You are treating us as sons and daughters. When we suffer and do not understand, remind us that You still see us, that You still care, and that the fire You allow is never meant to destroy—but to purify.
For those who are hurting this morning, draw near to them. For those under correction, give them humility and trust. And for those far from You, use Your truth to bring them home.
In Jesus’ holy 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

April 15, 2025

Lamentations chapter 3 verses 22–23:
“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

VERSE CONTEXT

The book of Lamentations is attributed to the prophet Jeremiah, who also authored the prophetic book bearing his name. This poetic lament was written in the aftermath of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. The once-glorious city had been reduced to rubble, the Temple desecrated, and the people carried into exile. The tone throughout much of the book is one of mourning, sorrow, and national humiliation, as God’s chosen people grapple with the consequences of long-standing disobedience.

Lamentations chapter 3 is unique within the book because it shifts from national sorrow to intensely personal grief. It opens with the words, “I am the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of his wrath” (verse 1), identifying the speaker as someone who feels crushed under divine judgment. Many believe Jeremiah is speaking personally here, lamenting what he himself has endured while still interceding on behalf of his people. For the first twenty verses, the tone is dark: filled with despair, hopelessness, and emotional devastation. But then—starting in verse 21—a stunning turn occurs.

“This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.”

The prophet deliberately chooses to remember something that reignites hope, and that brings us into verses 22–23, our focus today.

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed…”

The word “mercies” here comes from a word that carries the idea of covenant love or steadfast, loyal kindness. It is a plural word in Hebrew, expressing repeated acts of mercy, not just one. This loyal love is not a sentimental feeling but a binding covenantal compassion that God shows toward His people, even in the midst of judgment. The fact that Israel was not consumed, despite their rebellion and the severity of their punishment, speaks to God’s restraint and mercy. He could have wiped them out completely, but He didn’t. That is grace.

“…because his compassions fail not.”

The word “compassions” implies deep emotional concern, like that of a parent toward a suffering child. The idea is that God’s mercy isn’t mechanical or cold, but full of tender affection. The phrase “fail not” indicates permanence—His compassion never ceases. It is never exhausted, no matter how exhausted we are.

“They are new every morning…”

This line turns the emotional tide even more. Each day brings fresh mercy, no matter what happened the day before. The dawn becomes a metaphor for renewal—not only of the day but of God’s compassionate commitment to His people. This isn’t a poetic exaggeration; it is a spiritual reality. Just as the manna in the wilderness was provided fresh each day (Exodus chapter 16 verse 21: “they gathered it every morning”), so too is God’s mercy, not stored, but renewed for every morning’s needs.

“…great is thy faithfulness.”

Here, the verse turns into praise. The Hebrew word behind faithfulness refers to steadfastness, dependability, reliability. It’s the same word used when describing something that is firm and unshakeable. Even though everything else had crumbled—Jerusalem’s walls, the Temple, national dignity—God’s faithfulness stood unmoved. This final line echoes what the entire section is building toward: God’s unchanging nature. He is faithful even when we are not. He is steady when we are unstable. He keeps His covenant when we have broken ours.

BROADER CONTEXT
The book of Lamentations is structured as a series of five poems, each forming its own chapter, written in acrostic form in the original Hebrew. Chapters 1, 2, and 4 contain 22 verses (following the Hebrew alphabet), while chapter 3 expands to 66 verses—three lines per letter, creating a triple-acrostic. This structure is intentional and reflects a careful, meditative approach to sorrow: grief expressed with order and reverence. The entire book gives voice to sorrow without descending into chaos or despair. God’s sovereignty remains the backdrop, even when His people don’t understand His ways.

Lamentations chapter 3 serves as the heart of the book—not only in structure but in message. It is the only chapter where the lament becomes personal: “I am the man that hath seen affliction…” (verse 1). While chapters 1 and 2 focus on Zion’s downfall and destruction, chapter 3 narrows in on the inner life of a man wrestling with the silence of God, the weight of judgment, and the hunger for hope. This chapter walks us through the darkest emotional valleys (verses 1–20) only to lead us to the climactic expression of hope in verses 21–26.

Verse 21: “This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.”
Verses 22–23: “It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed…”

These verses aren’t spoken from a mountaintop—they are whispered from a pit. Jeremiah writes not from comfort but from collapse, and that’s why his hope is so striking. This section reminds the reader that God’s mercy is not dependent on circumstances. It is grounded in His character.

Even after this turning point, the poet continues to reflect on hardship, justice, and the cries of the afflicted. But from verse 21 onward, a theological anchor has been dropped: God is merciful, God is faithful, and He is worth waiting for.

Lamentations chapter 3 verse 26: “It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.”

These truths don’t erase suffering, but they make suffering bearable with hope.

Zooming out further, these verses also resonate with Jeremiah’s broader prophetic ministry. In the book of Jeremiah, we see the prophet warning Judah again and again to turn from idolatry and injustice, but his calls go unheeded. He witnesses firsthand the fulfillment of God’s warnings through the Babylonian conquest. Yet even in Jeremiah’s most severe rebukes, there was always the promise of restoration after judgment. This theme comes full circle in Lamentations: God did discipline His people, but He had not abandoned them.

Compare this with Jeremiah chapter 29 verse 11, which was written before the fall of Jerusalem:

“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.”

Even in exile, God’s intentions remained merciful. The message of Lamentations chapter 3 is that even when we are at rock bottom—because of our sins or life’s sorrows—God’s mercy is still at work. It is not exhausted. It is renewed daily. That is the hope that holds His people steady.

APPLICATION
Appreciating God’s Greatness
These verses lift our eyes to see the unchanging, deeply personal mercy of God, even when everything around us has fallen apart. They remind us that God’s compassion is not conditional on our performance—it flows from His covenant faithfulness. He is not like man, who grows weary or gives up. His mercies do not expire. They are not recycled leftovers from yesterday; they are new, fresh, purposeful each morning, designed to meet the needs of today.

What makes this truly breathtaking is that it is written in the aftermath of judgment. Jerusalem is in ruins. Families have been torn apart. Yet the prophet dares to declare that God is faithful. Why? Because God is always acting according to His holiness—even in wrath, He remembers mercy (Habakkuk chapter 3 verse 2: “in wrath remember mercy”).

This passage magnifies God’s greatness by showing that even when He disciplines, He does not abandon. Even when He is silent, He is not absent. And even when all seems lost, He is still giving daily gifts of mercy and compassion.

For the Believer
For the believer, this passage invites spiritual realignment. It reminds us not to judge God’s faithfulness by our feelings or circumstances, but by His unchanging character. Every morning you wake up is proof of God’s mercy. You are not consumed. You still have breath. You still have hope. If you’re walking through grief, trial, or discipline, these verses offer you something solid: not a quick escape, but enduring mercy. This is not a passage that makes light of pain—it’s a passage that tells you God walks with you in it. The same God who allowed the Babylonian captivity wept over it through the voice of His prophet. And the same God who allowed discipline was already at work planning redemption.

Call to Action:
Start each day by deliberately acknowledging His mercy. Before the to-do list begins, before the demands of work or stress or regret take hold, speak this truth aloud: “Great is Thy faithfulness.” Let that confession anchor your soul. If you’re burdened by guilt or shame, come to Him in repentance—because the mercy you need has already been made new today. Don’t waste it. Run to it. Let this verse also guide how you treat others. If God’s mercy renews daily for you, then extend fresh mercy to others, even those who may not “deserve” it. Forgive quickly. Show compassion intentionally. Reflect God’s nature in how you love.

For the Unbeliever
To the unbeliever, these verses offer a sobering but hope-filled truth. The reason you are alive today—the reason you woke up this morning—is because of God’s mercy. You may not realize it, but you are already a recipient of His compassion. The question is: what will you do with it? The mercy of God is not given so we can live however we want without consequence. It is given to draw us to Him. Romans chapter 2 verse 4 says:

“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?”

God is patiently giving you another day—not because He ignores sin, but because He desires your repentance and salvation. His mercy is real, but so is His judgment. If you delay, the day may come when mercy is no longer offered. But today? Today it is still new, available, and personal.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
Lamentations chapter 3 verses 22–23 is not just a poetic moment in the midst of sorrow—it is a theological anchor. It tells us that mercy is not just an occasional act of God, but a daily provision. Whether you feel victorious or defeated, hopeful or heavy, righteous or repentant—His mercy meets you at sunrise.

You are not consumed today. That means something. It means God is not finished with you. It means His hand is still on you. It means He still desires your trust, your worship, and your return to Him. Whatever yesterday held—failures, fears, or even faithfulness—today is a fresh canvas painted with God’s compassion.

Let these verses speak louder than your inner critic, louder than the enemy’s accusations, and louder than your fears. Say it to yourself, with confidence:
“His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness.”

PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the mercy that greets us each day—not because we deserve it, but because You are faithful. Thank You that Your compassions do not fail, even when we fail. Lord, help us to receive Your grace humbly and to reflect Your mercy boldly. Teach us to rest in Your faithfulness, not in our performance. Let our lives today testify that You are good, patient, loving, and true. For those who are broken, restore. For those who are wandering, draw near. And for every heart, may Your renewed mercy be our hope.
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

Zephaniah chapter 3 verse 17:

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.”

Verse Context

The prophet Zephaniah, whose name means “Yahweh has hidden” or “Yahweh protects”, ministered during the reign of King Josiah of Judah (approximately 640–609 BC). This was a time of religious reform and national uncertainty, as Judah stood in the shadow of both Assyrian decline and Babylonian rise. Zephaniah’s prophecy focuses heavily on the Day of the Lord, judgment upon the nations, and a purified remnant.

In this third chapter, Zephaniah sharply rebukes Jerusalem’s corruption and rebellion, yet shifts in the latter half to a message of restoration and hope. This verse sits within a glorious promise of redemption, where God describes not only what He will do for His faithful remnant—but how He feels about them.

Key Word Study:

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty” – This is not distant sovereignty. God places Himself among His people. The word mighty carries the sense of a victorious warrior, not just a passive presence.

“He will rejoice over thee with joy” – This word rejoice signifies great gladness, like a groom delighting in his bride (compare with Isaiah chapter 62 verse 5: “as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee”).

“He will rest in his love” – This phrase is theologically rich. Some scholars interpret this as God being so satisfied in His love for His people that He ceases from wrath, entering a calm and contented affection. Others see it as God quieting our fears through His love.

“He will joy over thee with singing” – This is profound: God not only forgives and restores—He sings over His people. It reflects a celebratory and tender delight, something rarely attributed to God in Scripture.

Commentators’ Insights:

Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Nonconformist) writes: “This is the highest expression of joy imaginable—that the great God should be so well pleased with his people, as to express it by singing.”

  • Albert Barnes (1798–1870, Presbyterian) adds, “The image is of a father who clasps his child in his arms and quiets it with his love.”
  • Cyril of Alexandria (c. 376–444 AD, early Church Father) wrote that this verse shows the Messiah dwelling among His people, and transforming sorrow into divine peace.
  • John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) points out that this language is covenantal, pointing to God’s faithfulness even when His people fall. The “singing” is proof of restoration, not merely survival.

This one verse carries a weight of divine affection rarely found in such poetic and concentrated form. It assures us that God is not just present or powerful—He is joyful in His love for His own.

Broader Context

The book of Zephaniah is short—just three chapters—but it delivers a message both sobering and stunning. It begins with a strong proclamation of judgment and ends with comforting promises of love and restoration. Zephaniah prophesied in Judah, likely in the early years of Josiah’s reign (before the full reformation took hold), during a time of deep moral decay. This was the generation following Manasseh’s reign, one of the most idolatrous and violent kings in Judah’s history (Second Kings chapter 21). Zephaniah’s voice helped lay the groundwork for the national repentance Josiah would later lead.

Chapter 3 Overview:

Chapter 3 begins with a stinging condemnation of Jerusalem:

  • Verse 1 calls it “filthy and polluted.”
  • Verse 2 accuses it of disobedience, a lack of trust in God, and refusal to draw near to Him.
  • Verses 3–4 expose corruption among princes, judges, prophets, and priests.
  • Verse 5 reminds the people that God is still righteous, even when they are not.

Then, from verse 8 onward, the tone shifts. After judgment falls, a remnant will be saved—not only from Judah, but from all nations. God promises to purify the people, take away their pride, remove their shame, and dwell in their midst. Verses 14–20 are a chorus of divine comfort, encouraging Zion to rejoice because God has turned His anger away.

Verse 17 sits right in the heart of this redemptive promise: God is not only present—He is rejoicing. This verse is not just about deliverance from physical enemies—it’s about spiritual transformation and relational restoration. The God who was angry (Zephaniah chapter 3 verse 8: “my determination is to gather the nations… for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy”) is now singing over His people with joy.

Book Overview:

The broader theme of Zephaniah is “The Day of the Lord.” This phrase appears throughout the prophets, but in Zephaniah it is especially central. The Day of the Lord involves:

  • Judgment of sin (chapters 1–2)
  • Call to repentance (chapter 2 verses 1–3)
  • Purging of pride (chapter 3 verses 11–13)
  • Restoration and rejoicing (chapter 3 verses 14–20)

What makes Zephaniah unique is how severe judgment and tender love exist side by side. The same God who brings justice also brings joy. His desire is not destruction, but purity and intimacy with His people.

Why This Verse Matters:

Zephaniah chapter 3 verse 17 doesn’t come from an easy time. It comes after judgment, after humbling, and after refining. This makes the promise even sweeter: those who survive the fire find the embrace of the Father.

This truth echoes throughout the Bible:

  • Psalm 30 verse 5: “weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
  • Lamentations chapter 3 verse 22–23: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed… they are new every morning.”
  • Revelation chapter 21 verse 4: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes…”

God’s ultimate purpose in judgment is not vengeance—it is restoration. This is the heartbeat of the gospel: God with us, not merely dwelling, but rejoicing.

Application

There’s something deeply personal about knowing that God doesn’t just tolerate us—He rejoices over us. It’s easy to imagine God being strong. It’s easy to see Him as holy. But what this verse helps us grasp is something far more intimate: God takes delight in His people. He isn’t distant. He isn’t cold. He’s not just watching from above. No—He is right here, “in the midst of thee,” and He’s not standing still… He’s singing.

Appreciating God’s Greatness

What kind of God does this? What kind of King sings over His people? Zephaniah chapter 3 verse 17 gives us the answer: “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy…” He is mighty—not only in strength, but in mercy. Mighty enough to conquer sin, yes—but also mighty enough to love without wavering. That’s greatness. Not just power, but presence. Not just sovereignty, but sacrifice.

And then we read this phrase: “he will rest in his love.” God isn’t frantic in His love. He’s not pacing with anxiety over how to deal with our failures. His love is settled, secure, and sufficient. It isn’t based on our goodness—it’s based on His character. That’s the greatness of our God. He rests in His love because He has completed the work of redemption. His Son fulfilled it. Now the Father rests in that perfect work—and delights in us.

For the Believer

If you’ve already given your life to Christ, then this verse is meant to anchor your soul. You are not a disappointment to God. You are a delight. Yes, He may discipline. Yes, He purifies. But when all is said and done, the heart of God toward His people is joyful affection.

There may be days when you feel unwanted. Days when sin whispers, “You’re too far gone.” But this verse says otherwise. You are carried by a God who rejoices over you. You are known by a God who sings.

This ought to change the way we pray, the way we worship, and the way we serve. We’re not trying to earn God’s attention. We already have it. We’re not fighting for His approval. We’re singing with the One who already approves of us because of His Son.

Call to Action

So what do we do with that kind of love? We return it. Not to earn His favor—but to reflect it. Let today be a day of returning joy to God. If He sings over you, will you not lift your voice in return? Not just in music—but in obedience, in thanksgiving, in reverence. Let His song ignite yours.

Take a moment to whisper thanks. To lift your eyes. To smile, not because life is perfect, but because God is present, and He is pleased to call you His.

For the Unbeliever

Maybe you’ve never seen God this way before. Maybe you’ve only known Him as a distant power, a distant judge, or a name people say in church. But today, you’ve caught a glimpse of something more—a God who wants to be near you. A God who doesn’t want to destroy you, but to restore you. A God who offers not just forgiveness, but fellowship.

You don’t have to clean yourself up first. You don’t have to “be better” before you come. The same God who judged Judah also offered to purify them and dwell with them. And He offers the same to you.

If you will turn from your sin and believe in the One who bore your judgment—Jesus Christ—you will not only be saved, you will be sung over. You will be part of the people God delights in. Don’t wait. Come home.

Final Encouragement

You may not hear it with your ears, but if you belong to Him, God is singing over you right now. Not because of how perfect you’ve been. Not because you earned His attention. But because He loves you with a settled, rejoicing, rescuing love—the kind that surrounds you, quiets your fears, and lifts your soul.

So if today feels heavy… if your past tries to define you… if doubts creep in… remember this:

“The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.”(Zephaniah chapter 3 verse 17)

Let that be your song today.

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

March 26, 2025

John chapter 14 verses 16 through 17:
“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”

Verse Context:

These words were spoken by Jesus during the Last Supper, recorded only in John’s Gospel. The apostle John—writing decades later under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost—preserves this intimate teaching between the Lord and His disciples. Jesus has just told them that He is going away, and the disciples are troubled and confused. But instead of simply calming their fears, He offers them something far greater than a temporary solution: the promise of a divine Person who will come to take His place among them—the Holy Ghost.

The title “Comforter” in this verse is worth exploring. While often used today in a soft emotional sense, in its original context, it means advocate, helper, intercessor, and one who stands beside. Jesus calls Him “another Comforter”—not meaning different, but another of the same kind. This is a direct claim to the divinity and equality of the Holy Ghost with Jesus Himself. He is not a lesser presence—He is God abiding with them just as Christ had been.

The phrase “abide with you for ever” demolishes any idea that the Spirit’s work is temporary or partial. This is not a seasonal empowerment, nor is it limited to emotional highs or religious rituals. It is a permanent indwelling, a constant companion, a divine residence in the believer’s life.

Jesus then refers to Him as the Spirit of truth, a title that shows us the Spirit’s character and role: He does not lie, cannot be deceived, and will always align with God’s Word. This title also draws a sharp line between the Church and the world: “whom the world cannot receive”—because the world operates by sight and flesh, not by faith and Spirit. Only those born again can truly receive and recognize the Holy Ghost.

Christ then comforts the disciples with these words: “ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” The Holy Ghost had already been with them in Christ’s ministry—empowering, guiding, and filling Jesus without measure (see John chapter 3 verse 34). But soon, at Pentecost, He would be in them, not just present, but indwelling. That marks the shift from the old covenant to the new—the Spirit no longer just came upon people; He came to live inside them permanently.

John Calvin (1509–1564, Reformed) notes that Christ “bids the disciples fix their eyes, not upon His absence, but upon the invisible presence of the Spirit, which would be more profitable to them.” Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Presbyterian) explains that the Holy Ghost would be the same kind of Comforter as Christ: a teacher, guide, strengthener, and intercessor, except now not limited by space or bodily presence.

Broader Context:

John chapter 14 is part of what’s often called the Farewell Discourse—chapters 13 through 17—where Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure. He gives them doctrine, comfort, warning, and future promises. The central promise in chapter 14 is the coming of the Holy Ghost.

Jesus presents the Spirit not as an impersonal force, but as a divine Person who will take up residence in believers. This stands in contrast to many modern teachings that reduce the Spirit to an influence or emotional experience. In this chapter, He is the Comforter who teaches (verse 26), reminds (verse 26), and abides (verse 17). He is personal, knowable, and holy.

This promise is later fulfilled in Acts chapter 2, when the Holy Ghost descends upon the believers in the upper room and fills them with power, boldness, and unity. But the theology of John chapter 14 provides the foundation: the Holy Ghost is not just God’s power—He is God’s presence.

Application:

Appreciating God’s Greatness:

God the Father sent God the Son, and God the Son sent God the Holy Ghost. Each Person of the Trinity works in perfect unity. The Holy Ghost is the eternal presence of God in us, never fading, never forsaking. His greatness is seen in His willingness to dwell in fragile, sinful human vessels and transform them into holy instruments of God’s glory. He is the Spirit of truth, meaning everything He does is righteous, and everything He leads us to is aligned with God’s Word.

For the Believer:

If you are in Christ, the Holy Ghost already lives in you. He is not far. He is not silent. He is speaking, guiding, correcting, strengthening—even in the quiet. He does not come and go like a guest. He abides. He is the Spirit of comfort in your grief, the Spirit of truth in your confusion, the Spirit of holiness in your temptation, and the Spirit of boldness in your witness.

Call to Action:
Acknowledge Him. Speak to Him. Thank Him. Yield to Him. We grieve Him when we live by the flesh, and we quench Him when we ignore His promptings. But when we walk in step with the Spirit, we experience peace, power, and purpose. Today, honor the Holy Ghost. Let Him fill your thoughts, guide your actions, and glorify Christ through you.

For the Unbeliever:

You may have heard about God the Father and God the Son, but until the Holy Ghost opens your heart, you cannot truly understand or receive them. Jesus said the world cannot receive the Spirit because it doesn’t know Him. But you can. Right now. If you will believe in Jesus Christ, confess your sin, and surrender your life to Him, the Spirit of truth will enter you—not temporarily, but forever. He will make you new, seal you as God’s child, and begin a lifelong work of transforming your heart.

Final Encouragement:

Jesus didn’t leave His disciples comfortless—and He hasn’t left you that way either. The Holy Ghost is the greatest gift Christ could send after His ascension. He is God, with us and within us. If you’re saved, you’re not alone. The Comforter is here. Honor Him today with your heart, your praise, and your obedience.

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

Deuteronomy chapter 10 verses 12–13

12And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, 13To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?

VERSE CONTEXT

The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Torah—the first five books of Moses—written as a final address to the children of Israel before they entered the Promised Land. Moses, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, is reminding this new generation of God’s covenant, God’s mercy, and God’s expectations. The name “Deuteronomy” means “second law,” not because the Law changed, but because Moses is repeating and re-teaching it for those who were born during the wilderness journey.

In this chapter, Moses is recounting how Israel had sinned by making the golden calf, how he interceded for them, and how God graciously renewed His covenant and gave them a second set of tablets. Verses 12–13 serve as a kind of spiritual summary. After all that disobedience, all that mercy, and all that deliverance, Moses asks: “Now, what does the Lord require of you?”

This is not a burdensome list of religious rules—it’s a call to relationship. Let’s break it down with key definitions and commentary.

“And now, Israel…”

Here Moses is transitioning. After retelling God’s past works and mercy, he turns to the present responsibility of Israel. “Now” implies an immediate response to what God has already done. The people are not being commanded blindly; they are being asked to respond in love to a God who saved and sustained them.

“…what doth the Lord thy God require of thee…”

This word “require” means to seek out, to desire, to ask for. It’s not cold legalism—it’s like a father saying, “This is what I want from you as my child.” It emphasizes God’s relational expectations, not just legal obligations.

“…but to fear the Lord thy God…”

The word “fear” here does not mean terror or dread, but reverent awe. It involves recognizing God’s holiness, power, justice, and mercy—and responding with humility and submission. It’s not a fear that drives us away, but one that draws us into obedience.

Commentator Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Nonconformist) wrote: “Fear is the root of all true religion. A reverence of God’s majesty, and a dread of His wrath, are essential to the beginning of wisdom.”

“…to walk in all his ways…”

“Walk” means to live or conduct yourself. This shows that worship is not confined to ritual or temple—it’s about daily life. “All his ways” includes His justice, mercy, faithfulness, holiness. We are to imitate God’s character in how we live.

“…and to love him…”

This is the heart of it all. Not cold obedience. Not empty ritual. God wants love. Real love leads to real obedience. As Jesus said in John chapter 14 verse 15: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”

This is also a major theme throughout Deuteronomy. Love was not a new idea in the New Testament—it’s been part of God’s covenant expectations from the beginning.

“…and to serve the Lord thy God…”

“Serve” means to work for, to labor for, or to worship. It’s the Hebrew equivalent of someone devoting their life to a king. God is not asking for part-time devotion—He wants all of us.

“…with all thy heart and with all thy soul…”

In Hebrew thought, the “heart” is the center of thought and will, and the “soul” is the seat of emotion and life. In modern terms: love and serve God with everything you are—your mind, your emotions, your choices, your life.

Commentator John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) said: “This is not a mere bodily service, nor a constrained one, but that which springs from a heart truly affected with the love and fear of God.”

In Scripture, the word “heart” does not mean the physical organ pumping blood, nor does it refer to emotional love as in modern Valentine’s culture. Biblically, the heart is the center of one’s intellect, will, emotions, desires, intentions, and conscience.

It is the deepest part of a person’s being, the core of who they are. It includes:

  • Your thoughts – what you dwell on, entertain, and plan.
  • Your desires – what you long for, pursue, or fantasize about.
  • Your motivations – why you do what you do.
  • Your moral compass – how you determine right and wrong.
  • Your decisions – what you ultimately choose.

God isn’t looking for hollow ritual or shallow praise—He is asking for the full surrender of your internal world. Not just your behavior, but the invisible engine room of your life.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Nonconformist) emphasizes this: “He must have the innermost and uppermost place in the affections; they must love him above all rival loves, and their hearts must be carried out towards him with the utmost sincerity and fervency.”

Henry is saying: God doesn’t want a portion of your loyalty or some kind of Sunday morning affection. He wants the whole operating system—not a temporary Valentine’s Day commitment, but a total life takeover from the inside out.

John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist) goes further: “With all thy heart — with sincerity and integrity of soul, and not in a formal and hypocritical way; and with all thy soul — with the utmost fervency of spirit, and readiness to suffer everything, even death itself, for his sake.”

Notice Gill brings in sincerity, integrity, and sacrifice—showing that this heart-service means you don’t serve God as an act of convenience, but with total surrender, even to the point of laying down your life.

Jesus said in Mark chapter 7 verse 21–23: “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”

Notice the first thing mentioned: evil thoughts. That’s the spark that lights the fire. So when God commands us to serve Him with all our heart, He is commanding that our thoughts be governed by truth.

That’s why Paul urges believers in Romans chapter 12 verse 2: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind…”

Heart transformation begins with mind transformation. If the heart is your inner sanctuary, the mind is the altar. If Christ sits there, sin is cast out.

Verse 13: “To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?”

“To keep the commandments of the Lord…”

The word “keep” in this context means to guard, observe, preserve, or give careful attention to. This is not casual or forgetful obedience. God is asking His people to intentionally guard His commandments—treat them like something precious, not optional.

The “commandments” refer to the direct moral laws of God, such as those found in the Ten Commandments (Exodus chapter 20). These reflect God’s holy character—truthfulness, purity, justice, reverence, and faithfulness.

In other words, worship isn’t just expressed through songs or sacrifices, but by how seriously we handle what God has already said. True worship includes honoring His Word with care and commitment.

“…and his statutes…”

“Statutes” means appointed laws or ordinances—rules that God set in place for the benefit and order of His people. These were often specific instructions for worship, justice, purity, and social ethics. Together, “commandments and statutes” cover both the moral and ceremonial laws of the Old Testament.

In New Testament terms, while ceremonial laws were fulfilled in Christ, the moral law still stands as a reflection of God’s holy standards. Jesus didn’t abolish righteousness—He fulfilled the law and gave us power through the Spirit to live it out (see Romans chapter 8 verse 4: “That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

What the argument that these are all old testament scriptures that no longer exist because of Jesus? You would not be wrong to recognize that Jesus changed everything—but the idea that He abolished the law or canceled the Old Testament is a misunderstanding of Scripture and the nature of God’s covenant continuity.

Matthew chapter 5 verse 17: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.”

Jesus didn’t come to erase the law—He came to embody it, complete it, and show what it always pointed toward. He lived it perfectly, and through Him, the ceremonial aspects (like animal sacrifice and temple rituals) were fulfilled once and for all. But He never said, “Ignore God’s moral and righteous expectations.” In fact, in the same passage, He says in Matthew chapter 5 verse 19: “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven…”

That means we must rightly distinguish between what was fulfilled and closed (like sacrifices, priestly garments, temple architecture) and what remains morally binding (like holiness, sexuality, justice, humility, and love).

The apostles consistently teach God’s moral expectations, even after the resurrection of Christ.

  • Galatians chapter 5 verses 19–21 lists works of the flesh like fornication, hatred, drunkenness, and heresies—all things governed by Old Testament statutes.
  • First Peter chapter 1 verse 16: “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” — direct quote from Leviticus.
  • Second Timothy chapter 3 verse 16: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…” — and when Paul said this, the Old Testament was the Scripture he meant.

Grace Doesn’t Cancel Obedience—It Empowers It

Titus chapter 2 verses 11–12: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly…”

Grace doesn’t remove God’s standards—it teaches us how to live them. Statutes don’t disappear under grace; they get written on the heart (see Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 10:16). Yes, they are Old Testament statutes—but no, that does not mean they are irrelevant. You must ask, Did Jesus fulfill this statute in a way that sets it aside (like animal sacrifice)? Or does this statute still reflect God’s holy expectations for how His people live (like justice, sexual purity, and care for others)?

“…which I command thee this day…”

This reminds us that God’s expectations are present, not theoretical or future only. Moses speaks urgently and presently: “this day” means now. God wasn’t just giving Israel a philosophy or national identity—He was calling them to immediate obedience.

It’s also a reminder of Moses’ prophetic authority. He doesn’t speak from himself, but under God’s command. His words aren’t optional suggestions—they are binding truth.

“…for thy good?”

This final phrase is tender and profound. God’s commands are not burdens designed to oppress His people. They are gifts meant to protect, guide, and bless.

This directly refutes the lie that God’s laws are restrictive or joy-stealing. In fact, the opposite is true. God’s laws are a fence around freedom—they preserve joy, life, family, justice, and worship.

Charles Spurgeon (1834–1892, Baptist) wrote: “The Lord’s commands are like rails on a high mountain path—they do not restrict us but keep us from plunging to destruction.”

So when God says, “Fear Me, love Me, obey Me,” it’s not selfishness—it’s fatherly love. Just as a parent says, “Don’t play in the street” or “Eat your vegetables,” God commands what is for our good, even when we don’t immediately understand it.

BROADER CONTEXT

The book of Deuteronomy is the final book of the Torah, written by Moses under divine inspiration. Its name comes from the Greek Deutero-nomos, meaning “second law,” not because a new law was given, but because Moses is repeating and re-teaching God’s law to a new generation of Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. The first generation had died in the wilderness due to unbelief and rebellion (Numbers 14:29–30), so now Moses is preparing their children to live as God’s covenant people in Canaan.

Chapter 10 is part of a larger section (chapters 9–11) where Moses reminds Israel of their repeated rebellion—especially the golden calf incident (Exodus 32)—and the mercy God extended despite their failures. Early in chapter 10, Moses retells how God restored the covenant by giving a second set of tablets (Deuteronomy 10:1–5), placed in the Ark of the Covenant (verse 5), and how he again interceded on their behalf.

By the time we reach verses 12–13, Moses is pivoting from history to heart. After recounting their sin and God’s mercy, he asks: “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee?”

This is not just a rhetorical question. It’s a theological turning point—a summary of what true covenant relationship looks like. God doesn’t merely want rituals, temples, or sacrifices. He wants fear (reverence), love, obedience, and whole-hearted service. These verses are a blueprint for biblical worship and a clear articulation of how God wants to be worshipped, not only under the Old Covenant but in spirit throughout redemptive history.

Deuteronomy is structured around a series of sermons by Moses, and these verses sit near the center of the first major sermon (chapters 5–11). That sermon includes:

  • A repeat of the Ten Commandments (chapter 5)
  • The Shema—“Hear, O Israel…” (chapter 6)
  • Warnings against forgetting God (chapters 6–8)
  • Lessons from past failure (chapters 9–10)
  • A call to wholehearted obedience and blessing (chapters 10–11)

These chapters emphasize that obedience is the fruit of love, not just law-keeping. God is not asking for a checklist; He’s asking for covenant loyalty.

Now, as discussed earlier, some may object: “But aren’t statutes and commandments for Old Testament Israel only?” That’s where understanding biblical continuity is critical. Moses is not laying down temporary rules for an ancient people—he’s revealing the character of a holy God who desires a set-apart people.

The commandments reflect God’s moral will. The statutes demonstrate how that will is lived out in daily life—governing everything from worship to justice, relationships to honesty. As has been the case for thousands of years, people try to discard these as “Old Covenant stuff,” but the New Testament reaffirms these truths. Jesus quoted Deuteronomy repeatedly (see Matthew 4:4, 4:7, 4:10) and summarized the whole Law with: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” (Matthew chapter 22 verse 37) That’s a direct echo of Deuteronomy 10:12 and Deuteronomy 6:5.

Furthermore, as we already examined, statutes are not abolished in Christ—they are fulfilled, clarified, and written on the heart (Hebrews 10:16). God still wants a people who:

  • Love Him from the heart
  • Obey His revealed will
  • Serve Him in truth
  • Walk in righteousness
  • Reject idolatry, immorality, and injustice

APPLICATION

Appreciating God’s Greatness

When God asks, “What does the Lord thy God require of thee?”, we are not hearing from a cold lawgiver—we are hearing from a loving Redeemer. He has delivered, forgiven, sustained, and carried His people. In return, He asks not for lifeless rituals, but for love, loyalty, and a life given back to Him.

What makes God so great here is His fatherly heart. He gives commands not to burden us, but to bless us: “…which I command thee this day for thy good?” (Deuteronomy 10:13)

No human ruler gives laws purely for the good of the people. But God does. He is majestic and merciful, holy and near, commanding and compassionate—all at the same time. He doesn’t want half of us—He wants all of us. That is greatness not just in power, but in personal love.

For the Believer

These verses call every believer back to the core of discipleship. Not routine. Not appearance. Not selective obedience. But full devotion—from the inside out.

God wants our heart (our thoughts, desires, emotions, intentions), and our soul (our life, passion, and purpose). When we give Him those, our actions—our obedience—naturally follow. Why? Because Obedience is the fruit of love.

If we love God, we will want to live like Him. If our minds are fixed on Him, sinful thoughts cannot take root. And when we serve Him with joy, even hard obedience becomes a pleasure.

Call to Action for Believers:

  • Examine your heart today. Is your love for God whole, or divided?
  • Surrender your thoughts—every private imagination, fear, and fantasy—into obedience to Christ.
  • Serve with your soul—not out of duty, but devotion. Don’t let church activity become a checklist. Let it be love in motion.
  • Trust that His commands are for your good. He is not trying to take anything from you—but to protect, purify, and prosper your life.

For the Unbeliever

If you’ve ever thought that God is just a rule-maker in the sky waiting to punish people, this verse shatters that lie. He’s not trying to make you religious. He’s trying to bring you into relationship—real, eternal, loving relationship.

Deuteronomy chapter 10 verses 12–13 show that God wants your heart, not just your habits. He wants your trust, not just your time. He’s not calling you to clean yourself up first—He’s calling you to surrender yourself to Him and let Him do the cleaning.

He is not harsh. He is holy. He is not distant. He is drawing near. And He is not waiting for you to earn His love—He already proved His love by sending His Son to die for you.

Call to Action for the Unbeliever:

  • Lay down your resistance.
  • Let God have all of you—your past, your wounds, your doubts.
  • Call on the name of Jesus, the fulfillment of this covenant, who makes it possible for you to love and serve God with all your heart and soul.

FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT

In a world that tells us to follow our hearts, God tells us to give Him our hearts. Not because He wants control, but because He wants closeness. These verses are not a list of rules to fear, but a call to relationship—rooted in reverence, built on love, lived out in service.

God is not asking for something you don’t have—He’s asking for what He gave you in the first place: your heart, your soul, your life. And He doesn’t ask for it to make your life harder. He asks because He knows that obedience is the only way to true freedom, lasting joy, and eternal life.

So if you love Him—let it show in your obedience. Let love lead the way. Let surrender be your worship. And remember, every statute, every commandment, and every calling He gives is not to tear you down, but to build you up for your good.

If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider sharing them with your Facebook friends and family. Help us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by sharing the mission of Believers of Biblical Truth (BBT) with others who may need it 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.