2 Kings 20:1 - 21:18 Outline

Chapter 20

Hezekiah Told He Would Die (1-3)

God Grants Hezekiah Fifteen More Years (4-6)

Hezekiah Asks For A Sign (7-11)

King Of Babylon Shown Treasures Of Judah (12-13)

Isaiah Warns Of Babylon's Victory Over Judah (14-18)

Hezekiah Dies (19-21)

Chapter 21

Manasseh Reigns (1-2)

Evil Acts Of Manasseh (3-6)

Asherah Image Placed In The Temple (7-9)

The Lord Speaks Out Against Manasseh (10-16)

Death of Manasseh (17-18)

2 Kings 18:1 - 19:37 - Thoughts

And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers, and read it; and Hezekiah went up to the house of the LORD, and spread it before the LORD. (2 Kings 19:14)

Hezekiah was at the end of himself.  He had no more gold or silver to offer the king of Assyria.  He was out numbered and found no human possibility for deliverance.  God had him right where He wanted him!

Why do we seem to think of God as a "last resort" when all other options fail?  God wants to be our first option with no plan B.  Proverbs 3:5-6 say it best, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

Finally, Hezekiah takes the letter from his enemy, unfolds it before the LORD in the temple and says the most amazing and heart-felt prayer. (2 Kings 19:15-19).  It was a short prayer, but consisted of three key things:

1. He acknowledged who God is to get his perspective right.
2. He asked for special attention. Lord, please pay attention to this area in my life. He recognised the attack was on God and not personal.
3. He prayed for the outcome to be for God's glory.

May we follow in Hezekiah's footsteps in this regard.  Allow us to quickly turn to Jesus for help and may we learn to pray for the right perspective and for the right motivation.

2 Kings 18:1 - 19:37 - Outline

Chapter 18

Reign of Hezekiah (1-2)

Hezekiah Reinstates Temple Worship (3-4)

God Blesses Hezekiah (5-8)

Recap Of Assyria Capturing The Northern Kingdom (9-12)

Hezekiah Pays Tribute To King Of Assyria (13-16)

Assyrian Dignitaries Come To Jerusalem (17-18)

Rabshakeh Warns Judah Not To Trust In The LORD (19-25)

Judah Leaders Try To Quiet Rabshakeh (26-27)

Rabshakeh Tries To Scare The People (28-35)

People Follow Hezekiah's Words (36-37)

Chapter 19

Hezekiah Asks Isaiah To Pray To The LORD (1-4)

The Lord Promises To Deliver Jerusalem (5-6)

Rabshakeh Sends Another Letter To Hezekiah (8-13)

Hezekiah Prays To The LORD (14-19)

God Promises To Defend Jerusalem (20-34)

God Delivers Jerusalem (35-37)

2 Kings 17:1 - 17:41 - Thoughts

They feared the LORD, yet served their own gods (2 Kings 17:33)

Proverbs 1:7 tells us that the fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge and Proverbs 9:10 that the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.  So it is good that the people feared the LORD, right?

My "fear" (excuse the pun) is that people misunderstand what the "fear of the LORD" really is.  In 2 Kings 17, the people were fearing the LORD because He sent lions into the land and some people were being killed.  They feared for their lives and wanted to find a way to appease the LORD so He would no longer be angry.  This was a common practice for the pagan nations.  Figure out what the gods want, give it to them, then they'll return the favor with rain, good crops, protection and pleasure.

But this is not how things work with the God of the universe.  He is not impressed with our sacrifices or rituals.  He just wants us to believe Him, have faith in Him and obey His commands (Hebrews 11:6).

The fear of the LORD that is mentioned in Proverbs is a healthy reverence for who God is and His holiness.  When He gives is a mere glimpse of His holiness and our sinfulness, it should bring us to fear and trembling (Isaiah 6:1-5).  That healthy fear should drive us to want to be closer to God and to desire holiness and to be cleansed.  We will long to repent and obey the commandments of God (Romans 2:4).

Ultimately, the Assyrians failed to understand what God told the children of Israel years earlier, "To obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams." (1 Samuel 15:22).

Lord, help us to not try and do ritualistic things to please You.  May all our works be for Your glory and not because we fear You'll be angry with us otherwise.

2 Kings 17:1 - 17:41 - Outline

Chapter 17

Reign of Hoshea (1-2)

King of Assyria Takes Israel (3-6)

Reason God Allowed Israel To Fall (7-23)

Assyrians Repopulate Israel (24-26)

King of Assyria Sends a Priest Back (27-31)

Fear Of The Lord Without Service (32-41)

2 Kings 15:8 - 16:20 - Thoughts

Ahaz said, "I will not ask, nor will I test the LORD!" (Isaiah 7:12)

It may seem odd that I'd quote Isaiah while speaking on 2nd Kings, but this passage was written during this same time in history.  We get a glimpse of what was going on with Ahaz and his heart.  You see, God offered to deliver Judah from the northern kingdom and Syria, but Ahaz had another deliverer, the Assyrians.  Ahaz had made a treaty with Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria rather than turning to the true and living God.

God still delivers Judah, but Ahaz misses out on a huge blessing and Assyria begins to gain strength and will eventually cause all sorts of problems for Judah and take Israel captive.

God loves to deliver us from our troubles if we throw up our hands and turn our lives over to Him.  As long as we continue to try and make treaties with the world, God will let us try and sort things out for ourselves.  Unfortunately, all we are really doing is selling ourselves to the world and eventually becoming their captive.

Lord, please deliver me from my pride, selfishness and independence.  Help me to be dependent more and more on You as I realize that without you I can do nothing. (John 15:5)

2 Kings 15:8 - 16:20 - Outline

Chapter 15

Power Struggle in Israel (8-31)

Reign of Zechariah (8-12)

Reign of Shallum (13-15)

Reign of Menahem (16-12)

Reign of Pekahiah (23-26)

Reign of Pekah (27-31)

Reign of Jotham (32-38)

Chapter 16

Reign of Ahaz (1-4)

Syria and Israel Come Against Judah (5-6)

Ahaz Seeks Help From Assyria (7-9)

Ahaz Commands Urijah To Build Assyrian Altar (10-11)

Ahaz Makes Offerings On Pagan Altar (12-16)

Ahaz Dismantals Temple Articles (17-20)

Romans 1 - Thoughts

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. (Romans 1:16)

This is an obvious key verse in this chapter.  It drove Paul to sacrifice all his time for the purpose of spreading the gospel.  Paul wanted to get to Rome because it was the economic and political epicenter of the world.  From there, the gospel could be spread everywhere because of the huge influx and outflow of people throughout the world.  Yet God did not allow Paul to go to Rome right away.  God allowed Paul to write this letter to them first and thus allow us to have access to such a wonderful book.

The purpose of the book of Romans is clear from verse 16.  Paul wants us to really understand the gospel, or good news of Jesus Christ.  This good news is powerful and available to all people.  This good news is that Jesus paid the price completely and do nothing but believe in Him and the work He did for us.

I wonder if my heart is sometimes ashamed of the gospel.  I tell myself, "People don't want to hear this."  Perhaps they don't, but this is no excuse not to share.  This is truth and people love the darkness more than the light, so I shouldn't be shocked at rejection.  Yet sometimes, people respond as the Holy Spirit leads.  Their eyes are opened and their souls are saved.  Oh what a glorious day.

Romans 1 - Outline

Chapter 1

Greetings (1-7)

Paul's Desire To Go To Rome (8-15)

Not Ashamed of the Gospel (16-17)

All Know There Is A God, No Excuse (18-23)

God Allows Self Worship (24-32)

2 Kings 13:14 - 15:7 - Thoughts

Then he said, "Take the arrows"; so he took them. And he said to the king of Israel, "Strike the ground"; so he struck three times, and stopped. And the man of God was angry with him, and said, "You should have struck five or six times; then you would have struck Syria till you had destroyed it! But now you will strike Syria only three times." (2 Kings 13:18-19)

The text indicates that Elisha was telling Joash to shoot all the arrows into the ground.  After three arrows, Joash stopped and did not completely obey the command from God.  Gods blessing and deliverance was tied to Joash's obedience.

God wants to work in our lives, but we need to be prepared to obey His commands even if they don't make any sense to us.  Often it is the simple things God tells us to do.  If we are obedient in these, God will then work mighty things in and through our lives.

How easy is it for me to focus on what I do for God, my works.  God tells us that obedience is better than sacrifice (I Samuel 15:22) and that our obedience is a sign of our love for Jesus. (John 14:21 - "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me."

God wants us to live pure and holy lives.  We can't do it without His help, but with His help we can do it.  May we worship our God through simple obedience.

2 Kings 13:14 - 15:7 - Outline

Chapter 13

Elisha Gives Prophecy of Victory Over Syria(14-20)

Last Miracle of Elisha (21)

Victory Over Syria (22-25)

Chapter 14

Reign of Amaziah (1-4)

Amaziah Shows Justice and Kindness (5-6)

Amaziah Defeats Edom (7)

Amaziah Makes War With Israel (8-)

Johoash Defeats Judah (13-)

Death of Jehoash (15-16)

Death of Amaziah (17-20)

Reign of Azariah (21-22)

Reign of Jeroboam (23-24)

God Delivers Israel (25-27)

Death of Jeroboam (28-)

Chapter 15

King Azariah/Uzziah (1-7)

Galatians 5 & 6 - Thoughts

I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16)

This verse is so important for the Christian desiring to walk in the ways of God.  Usually we get this backwards.  We want to say, "If I can simply not fulfill the lust of the flash, then I'll be able to walk in the Spirit."  This just doesn't work.  We are incapable of saying no to our flesh.  We were born with a sin nature and sinning comes natural.  Only by the power of the Holy Spirit are we able to love others more than ourselves.

Paul continues in chapter 5 to give a list of fleshly and spiritual characteristics in our lives.  The ultimate fruit of the God's Spirit living in us is our ability to love others.  This is an unselfish love which crosses ethnic and cultural boundaries and will be a sign to all that we are different.

I must continue to ask myself, "Am I walking in the Spirit?  Am I loving others more than myself?"  If not, I need to ask God for help and a refreshing of His Spirit within me.  Only then will I be able to not fulfill the lust of my flesh.

Galatians 5 & 6 - Outline

Chapter 5

Liberty in Christ (1)

No Profit in The Law (2-5)

Legalism Hinders and Permeates (7-9)

Paul Speaks Against Legalistic Teachers (10-12)

Balance of Liberty and the Law (13-15)

Battle Between Flesh And The Spirit (16-)

Works Of The Flesh (19-21)

Fruit Of The Spirit (22-23)

Death To The Flesh (24-25)

Chapter 6

Restoration In Love (1-2)

Service To God (3-5)

Principles of Sewing and Reaping (6-10)

Boast Only In Christ (11-17)

Salutations (18)

2 Kings 11:1 - 13:13 - Thoughts

Jehoash did what was right in the sight of the LORD all the days in which Jehoiada the priest instructed him. (Verse 12:2)

King Jehoash did what was right as long as his uncle, Jehoiada the priest, instrected him.  Once Jehoiada dies, Jehoash quickly went away from the LORD.

This is a common problem in the church today.  We can get our eyes on a leader or a teacher.  Our motivation for following Christ may be because of a family member or someone we respect in the church.  If that person falls away from Christ or dies, we can quickly turn from Jesus ourselves.  That's why it is so important for us to keep our eyes on Jesus and not on people.  Pastors, parents, spouses, friends, relatives, coworkers will all fail us.  But Jesus will never fail.

2 Kings 11:1 - 13:13 - Outline

Chapter 11

Athaliah Murders Family (1-3)

Jehoiada's Covenant (4-8)

Captains Guard Joash (9-11)

Jehoiada Anoints Joash (12-14)

Athaliah is Killed (15-16)

Jehoiada Renews Covenant (17-18)

Joash Made King (19-21)

Chapter 12

Joash Becomes King (1-3)

Joash Repairs Temple (4-5)

Offering Taken For Temple Repairs (9-10)

Money Used For Repairs (11-16)

War With Syria (17-18)

Death of Joash (19-21)

Chapter 13

Reign of Jehoahaz (1-2)

God's Judgement on Jehoahaz (3-7)

Death of Jehoahaz (8-9)

Reign of Jehoash in Israel (10-13)

Galatians 3 & 4 - Thoughts

But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for "the just shall live by faith." (Verse 3:11)

Paul quotes from Habakkuk 2:4 where we see Habakkuk struggling with God in the midst of a terrible time in Israel's history.  Sin and idolatry were prevalent, no one seemed to be seeking the LORD, Israel had been taken captive by the Assyrians and the Babylonian armies were poised to destroy Jerusalem.  Habakkuk asks God, "O LORD, how long shall I cry, and You will not hear?" (Habakkuk 1:2)

Finally, God answers Habakkuk, but not to explain the details of His plan.  He simply tells Habakkuk to have faith.  Faith that the God of the universe is still in control.  We must believe God at his word.  This belief is accounted to us for righteousness just as it was for Abraham. (Genesis 15:6)(Romans 4:3)(Galatians 3:6)(James 2:23).

When we truly grasp this idea, we can put aside our worries and begin to enjoy the freedom we have in Christ.  Legalism usually comes from a lack of trust in God's control.  We think we must do all these things to please God or work harder to help God out of a bind.  God wants to use us, but He doesn't need us.

Lord, please help me to enjoy the freedom You give to me even when I cannot understand it.  Help me to know You are in control and I can rely on Your Spirit to do the work through me and not by my own strength.

Galatians 3 & 4 - Outline

Chapter 3

Spirit Works Through Faith (1-6)

Justification Through Faith (7-14)

Jesus, Not The Law, Is The Blessing To All Nations (15-18)

Purpose Of The Law (19-25)

We Are Sons And Daughters Of God (26-29)

Chapter 4

Bondage of Sin (1-5)

Don't Turn Back (7-10)

Paul Reminds Them of Their Start (11-16)

Warnings About False Teachers (17-18)

Paul's Desire To Be With Them (19-20)

Old Testament Example of Sarah and Hagar (21-31)

2 Kings 9:14 - 10:36 - Thoughts

This is the word of the LORD (9:36)

How often do we read in the Old Testiment, "Thus says the LORD" or "The LORD said?"  It is very frequent.  I read these words, but do I stop to think about what this means?  The LORD cannot lie.  What He says will happen.  God is faithful and just.  These are comforting words when I'm struggling and need to hold onto the promises of God, but they are also convicting when I realize that God is a God of justice and He doesn't just wink at my sin and ignore it.

As a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, I know my sins have been seperated from me as far as the east is from the west.  Jesus paid the price for my sin and I am free.  However, as children of the King, He doesn't want us walking in sin or using grace as a doormat or excuse to do our own thing.  That isn't being a follower of Christ.  So God will chasen us and wants us to repent from our sins quickly and turn back to Him.

For those who don't trust in Jesus Christ as their Saviour, it is a much different story.  Unfortunately they will be required to stand in judgement of their sins someday.  I don't think anyone in this situation actually believes this to be true.  If they did, they would repent and accept Jesus Christ.  Instead, they don't believe God and His promises.  Instead, they say things like, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation." (2 Peter 3:4).  Being wise in their own eyes, they become fools.

This thought should break the heart of a Christian.  If God's word is true, and every follower of Jesus should believe it is, then people are dieing every day and going to hell.  We have the good news, why don't we share?  It makes me wonder if I actually believe it to be true.

A wise pastor once said, "The wheels of God's judgment turn slowly, yet they grind completely."  God gives us a choice of life or death and then begs us to choose life.

2 Kings 9:14 - 10:36 - Outline

Chapter 9

Jehu Conspires Against Joram (14-15)

Watchmen Join Jehu (16-19)

Joram Meets Jehu (20-22)

Jehu Kills Joram (23-26)

Jehu Kills Ahaziah (27-28)

Jezebel Dies (29-37)

Chapter 10

Jehu Gives Ahab's Sons A Chance To Fight (1-4)

No One Challenges Jehu (5-6)

Ahab's Sons Killed (7-10)

Jehu Kills Remaining Friends of Ahab (11)

Jehu Kills Brothers of Ahaziah (12-14)

Jehu Kills All Loyal To Ahab (15-17)

Jehu Kills Worshipers of Baal (18-28)

Jehu Continues In Calf Worship (29-31)

God Cuts Off Parts Of Israel (32-36)

Galatians 1 & 2 - Thoughts

...they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised (Verse 2:9)


It is so good to see unity in the church, when believers recognize that each of us has a different ministry and yet we are all working toward the same goal: seeing souls saved.  That is the main focus of Romans 8:28, "all things working together for good."

But it is very important that we don't simply seek unity for the sake of unity.  Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 5 that we should have nothing to do with those who call themselves Christians, yet don't follow the basic doctrines of the Bible.

May we seek unity in the church and not compromise doctrine. It is a balance that can only be achieved by the power of the Holy Spirit. That is why we should be doing all things through His power. (Zech 4:6)

Galatians 1 & 2 - Outline

Chapter 1

Greetings (1-5)

Turning Away From The Gospel (6-9)

Gospel Is From God, Not Men (10-12)

Paul Describes His Life As A Legalist (13-14)

Paul's Transformation (15-16)

Three Years in Arabia (17-19)

Paul's Radical Conversion (20-24)

Chapter 2

Paul Goes To Speak In Jerusalem (1-5)

Unity in Christ (6-10)

Paul Confronts Peter (11-14)

Jews Know Justification By Works Fails (15-21)

2 Kings 8:1 - 9:13 - Thoughts

Then he set his countenance in a stare until he was ashamed, and the man of God wept. (Verse 8:11)

Elisha saw the evil in Hazael's heart that he didn't see.  Hazael's response was denial rather than repentance (verse 13).  The truth is, we are all capable of evil.  It is only by God's grace that we can do any good.

Part of me is shocked when I read sections of scripture like this.  It is obvious God knows exactly what Hazael will do and the pain it will cause so many,  yet He does not prevent it.  God allows Hazael free will but first uses Elisha to warn him what kind of man he was.  Oh that he would have repented and asked for mercy.  God would have given him grace.

James 1:22-24 tells us that God's word is like a mirror.  It reviles what kind of man or woman we are; the evil inside each one of us.  We then choose to do something about it or go away and immediately forget.

What does God's word show me today about myself?  Am I convicted when I compare myself to the life Jesus demonstrated?  I should be.  God please protect me from the evil that is in my heart.  Show me and help me to be more like Your son.  Fill me with Your Spirit and allow me to bear the fruit of the Spirit, Love.

2 Kings 8:1 - 9:13 - Outline

Chapter 8

Elisha Warns Shunemite Woman (1-2)

Woman Asks For Her Land (3-5)

King Restores All Back To The Woman (6)

Elisha Meets With Hazael (7-9)

Elisha Prophesies About Ben-Hadad and Hazael (10-13)

Hazael Murders Ben-Hadad (14-15)

The Reign of Jehoram (16-19)

War With Edom (20-24)

The Reign of Ahaziah (25-27)

More War With Syria (28-29)

Chapter 9

Elisha Sends a Prophet To Anoint Jehu King (1-3)

Jehu Anointed King (4-11)

Jehu Announced As King (11-13)

2 Corinthians 12-13 - Thoughts

For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you. (Verse 13:4)

Do you ever feel weak?  I do.  Do others see Christianity as a crutch or a sign of weakness?  I believe they do.  People say things like, "I don't need Christ, I'm strong on my own.  I don't need church or God, thats for those weak people."

Of all the people that appeared weak, it would have been Jesus Christ on the cross.  And yet now we know that through this weakness, God was made strong and defeated the power of sin and death.  This one moment of apparent weakness gave God the power to save us from our sins. (Romans 1:16)

The truth is, all humans are weak.  All it takes is a little food poisoning or a cold to make us see the frailty of our bodies.  We all struggle emotionally and spiritually.  Everyone has points in their life when they can proclaim the same sentiment of Solomon: "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity." (Eccl 1:2)


The Bible teaches that in our weakness, God is made strong.  We must recognize our weakness and look to God for strength.  This is not an excuse for self pity or a low self esteem, because God tells us that in Christ, we are His masterpiece. (Eph 2:10)


Lord, the world may thank I'm weak and I know I'm weak.  Please take my weakness and use it for your glory.  Let people know that any good thing that comes from me is because of You.

2 Corinthians 12-13 - Outline

Chapter 12

Paul's Heavenly Vision (1-4)

God's Strength in our Weakness (5-10)

Paul Again Apologises For Boasting(11-13)

Paul's Desire To Return To Corinth (14-21)

Chapter 13

Paul Warns of Correction (1-6)

Do No Evil (7-10)

Salutations (11-14)

2 Kings 6 & 7 - Thoughts

Elisha answered, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."  And Elisha prayed, and said, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw... (Verses 6:16-17)

It is all about perspective.  The more I read and study God's word, the more I realise the sign of spiritual maturity is not in how often or how long I pray, how much I study the Bible or give of my time.  These things are good, but they all serve one purpose: to align our heart and mind with the Creator of the universe.  When I do, my perspective is correct and I see the world through Jesus' eyes.  The trials seem smaller, the battles seem easier and the enemy looks outnumbered.

May we seek God's eyes and God's perspective on the world today.  We do this through prayer, reading His word, praising Him and by being in fellowship with other believers.  This happens to be the model for the church in Acts chapter 2!

2 Kings 6 & 7 - Outline

Chapter 6

Floating Axe Head (1-7)

King of Syria Makes War (8-13)

King of Syria Goes To Take Elisha (14-15)

Elisha Ministers To His Servant (16-17)

Elisha Brings Syrians To Samaria (18-20)

Elisha Shows Grace To The Syrians (21-24)

Ben-Hadad Besieges Samaria (24-25)

Extreme Depravity – Cannibalism (26-30)

Joram Seeks Elisha (31-33)

Chapter 7

Elisha Prophesies Deliverance (1-2)

Lepers Enter Syrian Camp (3-9)

Lepers Tell The King (10-13)

Samaria Is Delivered (14-16)

Death Of The Officer (17-20)

2 Corinthians 10:1-11:28 - Thoughts

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.  (Verses 10:4-6)


We are in a spiritual battle; which Jesus will ultimately be the final judge.  So why doesn't Jesus punish the people that are persecuting us?  Perhaps WE are the answer to our own question.  Jesus doesn't always deal with others right away because He is trying to teach us something first.  Until we learn the lesson, Jesus may decide to allow others to continue the persecution.

If we saw trials this way, it would change our lives.  If we could see the spiritual battles being fought and understand that nothing is an accident or coincidence.  If someone is trying my patience, perhaps God is teaching me patience.  If someone makes me angry, perhaps God is dealing with my anger.  Rather than seeing others as the problem, if we could see them as an instrument God is using to solve a problem in our lives, it would be easier for us to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44).

Lord, thank You for the problem people You put in my life.  I know that ultimately You will judge them for their actions, but right now You may be using them to deal with something in my life.  May I learn the lesson quickly and easily.

2 Corinthians 10:1-11:28 - Outline

Chapter 10

The Spiritual War (1-6)

In This Together (7-13)

Paul's Authority (14-18)

Chapter 11

Warnings Against Another Jesus, Spirit and Gospel (1-10)

Paul's Lack of Physical Qualities (5-11)

Paul Warns of False Apostles (12-21)

Paul Compares Ministries (22-28)

2 Kings 4:38 & 5 - Thoughts

Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, "Look, my master has spared Naaman this Syrian, while not receiving from his hands what he brought; but as the LORD lives, I will run after him and take something from him." (Verse 5:20)

We may not like to admit it, but there is a part of Gehazi in all of us.  After accepting Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we are born again and have become a new creation, but we still hold on to the old selfish flesh of the original creation.  We see four areas in Gehazi's life that show he was into religion and not relationship with his creator.

1. Lack of compassion.  When the Shunammite mother fell at Elisha's feet, Gehazi tried to push her away (Verse 4:27).  How could he not see the deep distress on her face?
2. Lack of power.  When Elisha sent Gehazi ahead of him to place Elisha's staff on the boy's face, nothing happened (Verse 4:31).  I believe Elisha thought this would work, yet we see no miracles done at the hand of Gehazi.
3. Lack of faith.  During the famine, when the man from Baal Shalisha came with the small amount of food, Gehazi didn't believe it could feed everyone.  This is very similar to the lack of faith Jesus' disciples showed in the feeding of the four thousand and the feeding of the five thousand (Matthew chapters 14 - 15).
4. Covetousness.  It finally became obvious that Gehazi's eyes were on the things of this world and not on the kingdom of heaven.  When Elisha refused the gifts from Naaman, Gehazi must have thought he was crazy.  Why not take the gift and use it for good?  Wasn't this just another blessing from God?  Yet Elisha was wise enough to know that taking this gift would misrepresent God and His character.

Do we see these characteristics in our lives?  If we are honest, I think we'd all say yes.  May this humble us and make us realize our need for a daily walk with our Lord and a refilling of His Holy Spirit in our lives.

Jesus, please protect me from covetousness, build my faith, give me power by Your Spirit and, most of all, give me compassion for those around me.

2 Kings 4:38 & 5 - Outline

Chapter 4

God Heals the Stew (38-41)

God Feeds the Multitude (42-44)

Chapter 5

Naaman's Leprosy (1-4)

Ben-Hadad Sends Naaman to Israel (5-6)

Naaman Sent to Elisha (7-8)

Elisha's Command (9-10)

Naaman's Rage (11-13)

Naaman Obeys (14-15)

Elisha Refuses a Gift (16-19)

Gehazi's Greed (20-23)

Wages of Sin (24-27)

2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15 - Thoughts

For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has , and not according to what he does not have. (verse 8:12)

I grew up in an environment that encouraged pledging and making promises to God to give a certain amount each week or month.  I now know that this is not the heart of God.  We are not to boast for tomorrow and assume we'll have anything to give next week or next month (James 4:13-16).  This is not to say we give God our leftovers.  We are not to do what we want with our resources and give whatever is left to God.  We should give to Him and to His work first, but give from what we have and not from what we don't have.

The idea of giving back to God from the very things He gives to us is a cheerful thought.  Giving is the heart of God, and the desire to give is also a gift from the Holy Spirit.  We love because He first loved us and we give because He first gave to us. (1 John 4:19)  Giving is a demonstration of love. (Romans 5:8)

Oh God, please give me a heart like Yours.  Help me to give of myself daily to Your service, the service of my wife and to those You have placed around me.  Only by Your power am I able to put away the selfishness of the flesh and live as You would have me live.

2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15 - Outline

Chapter 8

Macedonia Church as an Example (1-4)

Give First of Ourselves (5)

Giving is a Gift of the Holy Spirit (6-7)

Jesus Was Our Example (8-9)

Give from What God Has Given (10-15)

Be Careful In the Administration of Gifts (16-22)

Love is an Action (23-24)

Chapter 9

Be People of our Word (1-4)

Give Generously and Cheerfully (5-8)

God is the One Who Really Gives Everything (10-15)

2 Kings 3:1 & 4:37 - Thoughts

He returned and walked back and forth in the house, and again went up and stretched himself out on him; then the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes. (verse 4:35)

It's so difficult to imagine a man like Elisha pacing back and forth not knowing what to do next.  This is one of the few times we see Elisha struggle with his faith and not being confident in the will of God.  I'm grateful this event was documented for us because I experience moments like this too.  I walk back and forth wondering what God would have me do in this particular situation.  God is faithful to finish the work even if we don't know what to do next. (Phil 1:6)

If God had not chosen to raise the boy from death, would it have changed the character of God?  Certainly not!  This boy's healing was only temporary; he still died, but later in life.  God is ultimately interested in our eternal life and will deal with us in such a way as described in Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."  The "good" spoken of here is the salvation of souls, not our immediate pleasures or comforts.

I believe God was doing a work in Elisha's life that required him to see God's power over life and death.  We see Elisha continue his ministry in a dramatically new way after this occurrence.

May the work God does in my life have an impact on me for the "good" of reaching others for Christ.

2 Kings 3:1 & 4:37 - Outline

Chapter 3

Reign of Jehoram (AKA Joram) (1-3)

Moab's Revolt (4-5)

Joram Goes to War (6-10)

Calling for Elisha (11-14)

Elisha Gives Prophecy and Instruction (15-19)

Battle with Moab (20-24)

The Destruction of Moab (25-26)

Chapter 4

The Woman and the Oil (1-7)

Shunem Woman (8-37)

2 Corinthians 5:16-7:16 - Thoughts

Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. (16:14)

The Christian life is a team effort. Not only does God want to work through us individually, He wants to work through us corporately. God WILL bring people together and have them work as a team to accomplish His will. Paul, in this section of 2 Corinthians, is explaining our obligation to give our lives daily to the service of our King. He then reminds us that we are not in it alone and can take comfort in each other and support one another.

Too often I try to do things on my own. I take the worldly attitude, "If you want something done right, do it yourself." Since our obedience is more important to God than the results, isn't it better to work with others even if things are not done perfectly?

Certainly Jesus' disciples did a poor job at God's work, yet Jesus insisted on using them and not doing it all Himself. May we all take a lesson from Jesus' playbook and find someone to be equally yoked with in ministry.

2 Corinthians 5:16-7:16 - Outline

Chapter 5

New Creation (16-17)

Reconciled Back to God (18-21)

Chapter 6

Saved to Serve (1-2)

Service Can Be Difficult (4-10)

The 10 INs (what)

The 11 BYs (how)

The 7 AS/YETs (why)

Live an Open Life Free of Guilt (11-13)

Work Together for Righteousness (14-18)

Chapter 7

Be Clean and Open (1-3)

Comfort from Each Other (4-7)

Purpose of Correction (8-)

2 Kings 1 & 2 - Thoughts

And the angel of the LORD said to Elijah, "Go down with him; do not be afraid of him." (2 Kings 1:15)

What a shocking verse to be found in the midst of this chapter.  We know that Elijah must have been afraid or else God would not have given him these words of comfort.  Why was he afraid?  He saw the power of God through fire from heaven on multiple occasions.  This points out once again that faith does not come from signs and wonders, but from the Word of God (Romans 10:17).

Fear is a powerful emotion, but is it bad?  The Bible tells us that fear is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).  The problem is not with fear, but in the object of our fear.  Fear comes from our understanding that we are not in control.  When we are surrounded by 50 military men, like Elijah, we are not in control.  When the bank account is empty and the stack of bills is full, we are not in control.  When our spouse stops loving us or when we lose a job, we are not in control.

God tells us to not be afraid of the things of this world.  Cast our fears on Him and give Him control of our lives.  He loves us and wants to direct our path.  Peter says it best in 1 Peter 5:6-7, "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."

We can only do this by the power of the Holy Spirit, so we should pray for help.

God, please give me the correct perspective on this world and fear ONLY You.  Let me be afraid of walking outside Your will and outside of Your commandments.

2 Kings 1 & 2 - Outline

Chapter 1
- Ahaziah Seeks Wrong God (1-8)
- - Elijah meets the messangers
- - Message given to the king
- Ahaziah Sends for Elijah (9-14)
- - First fifty-one
- - Second fifty-one
- - Third fifty-one
- Elijah Confronts Ahaziah (15-18)
Chapter 2
- Elisha Begins Preparation for Ministry (1-7)
- - Gilgal - Purification
- - Bethel – God's Presence
- - Jericho – God's Victory and Power
- - Jordan – Separation and New Beginnings
- Elisha Desires the Holy Spirit (8-10)
- Elijah Taken to Heaven (11)
- Elisha Morns and Begins Ministry (12-15)
- Men Persuade Elisha to Search for Elijah (16-18)
- Power of the Spirit (19-22)
- Responsibility of the Prophet (23-25)

2 Corinthians 4:7-5:17 - Thoughts

Jars of clay.  Cracked pots.

Isn't it amazing that God chooses to place His greatest treasure in such imperfect vessels?  Yet I tend to focus on the pot and not the treasure.  I tell myself, "If I can only get this container to look better or act better, then I'll deserve God's love."  The truth is God only needs two things from me:

1. Be clean on the INSIDE
2. Be empty

God, please cleanse me and empty me of myself.  Make me a vessel that You can use for Your glory.

2 Corinthians 4:7-5:17 - Outline

Chapter 4      
- We are Clay Pots With Treasure (7-12)
- We are in This Together (13-15)
- Paul Encourages the Corinthians (16-17)
Chapter 5      
- Old Tent Verses New Body (1-5)
- Absent From the Body is to be Present With the Lord (6-11)   
- Boast in Life not Death (12-13)
- Our Life is Not Our Own (14-15)
- New Creation (16-17)

2 Corinthians 2:12-4:6 - Thoughts

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves... our sufficiency is from God (3:4)

I am so happy to see this verse amongst this section of scripture. Paul points out that we are a fragrance, letter and light to the world.  How reassuring to know that it is not by my power but by the power of God.

Zech 4:6 - "Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit," Says the LORD of hosts.

If I simply focus on my relationship with Jesus and feed the Spirit inside me, then I will be the fragrance God wants me to be. God will be able to speak through me to others and shine His light into other's lives. It is an awesome responsibility, but God never expects us to do it in our strength.

Fill me with your Spirit oh God of Jacob!!!

2 Corinthians 2:12-4:6 - Outline

Chapter 2
Paul Seeking God's Direction (12-13)
We are the fragrance of Christ (14-17)
Chapter 3
We are the epistle of Christ (1-3)
God's Sufficiency (4-6)
Glory of the New Covenant (7-18)
- Reflective glory vs direct glory – e.g. sun vs moon (9)
- So we can be bold (12)
Chapter 4
Ministry with Integrity (1-2)
We are Christ's light (3-6)

1 Kings 22 - Thoughts

So the king of Israel ... went... (v29)

In blatant defiance of God, Ahab went to take the city of Ramoth Gilead. God had shown grace to Ahab repeatedly and then warned him about his impending death if he pursued the city, yet Ahab went. There was nothing wrong with Ahab's desire to take the city. It belonged to Israel and was a city of refuge, but it was not God's way or His timing.

How many times in my life do I desire something? Perhaps it's a good thing and something God would be pleased for me to have, but not right now, not this way. When we get our eyes off of God and His ways and onto the object of our obsession, it will lead to disaster.

Lord help me to seek first the kingdom of God and Your righteousness knowing that all these other things will be added to me in Your way and in Your time.

1 Kings 22 - Outline

North and South Unite Against Syria (1-5)
Kings Seek God's Blessing (not permission) (6-9)
Zedekiah Speaks Lies (10-12)
Micaiah is Coached to Say Good Things (13-14)
Micaiah Prophesies (15-18)
Micaiah Explains False Prophets (19-23)
Zedekiah Reacts (24-25)
Micaiah Punished for Truth (26-28)
Ahab and Jehoshaphat Go To Battle (29-40)
- Ahab's Disguise
- Syria's Plan
- God's Providence
- Ahab's Death
Genealogy (41-53)

2 Corinthians 1:1-2:11 - Thoughts

"...lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices" (2:11)

How often do I miss the big picture? Satan will take advantage of us when we error one way or the other. It's like driving down a muddy road with deep ruts on either side. Satan doesn't care which rut we get into, he just wants us off the road and in the mud. In this case, we see the Corinthian church going from one error into another. They were refusing to address blatant, unrepentant sin in the church and Paul warned them about it in 1 Corinthians chapter 5. Now they addressed the sin but when the same man was broken and repentant the church refused to show grace. Satan taking advantage of pushing them from one rut right into another.

No accountability will allow sin to grow until it causes death (James 1:14-15).
No grace or forgiveness will lead to bitterness and often pride.

God will prompt us to deal with things in our lives and to get us out of our current rut. May we be careful not to simply fall into the one on the other side of the road. Only the Holy Spirit can guide us safely down the road and keep us out of the mud.

2 Corinthians 1:1-2:11 - Outline

Greetings (1-2)
God is Our Comfort (3-5)
Purpose of Suffering (6-7)
Paul's Example of Suffering (8-11)
Paul's Sincerity in Ministry (12-14)
Paul Explains Why He Didn't Come See Them (15-22)
- Paul was not lying
- Don't let anything question God's faithfulness
Paul's Desire to See Them and Bring Joy (1:23-2:4)
Extend Grace to Those Who Repent (2:5-11)

1 Kings 20 & 21 - Thoughts

Last week we saw Elijah's disappointment because there was no change in Israel after the event at Mount Carmel. I believe Elijah was tired of Ahab and Jezebel ruling over the nation, but God was not finished with them yet.

In chapters 20 and 21, we see God continue to help this evil duo through two battles with Syria. Why would God do this? Isn't God just? Doesn't God care? I believe the answer is found in 2 Peter 3:9:
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."

God loved Ahab and wanted to see him repent. We finally see him do so after the warning of his death and the death of his family (20:27). Was this repentance genuine? Did he become a follower of YHWH? I can't be sure, but I know this: Ahab believed God when he was told what would happen in the future. In Genesis 15:6 we are told that Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

Does Ahab deserve to be in heaven? Of course not. None of us do, but God's grace is so big he can save people like you and me and a man like Ahab if we just believe. God tells us that Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven. Do we believe Him?

Oh how longsuffering the Lord is towards us.

1 Kings 20 & 21 - Outline

Chapter 20
----------
Syria Makes War With Israel (1-9)
Biblical 'Trash Talk' (10-11)
Perperation for Battle (12-16)
First Battle (17-21)
Warning for Future War (22)
Syrians Make War With Israel Again (23-25)
Second Battle (26-30)
Ahab's Greed: Treaty with Syria (31-34)
Prophesy of Ahab's Death (35-43)

Chapter 21
----------
Ahab's Greed (1-4)
- Naboth fears God more than Ahab
- Ahab pouts
Jezebel's Murder Plot (5-14)
- Jezebel uses Jewish law to murder Naboth
- Elder's fear Ahab and Jezebel more than God
Ahab Accepts Evil Gift (15-16)
The LORD Sends Elijah to Pronounce Judgment (17-26)
Ahab Repents (27)
God's Mercy (28-29)

1 Corinthians 16 - Thoughts

For a closing chapter, this is surprisingly jam-packed with valuable insights into Paul's character and ministry, giving and helping one another. The verses that jumped out at me were 12-18.

Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brethren, but he was quite unwilling to come at this time; however, he will come when he has a convenient time. Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. Let other's help. I urge you, brethren -- you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us. I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied. For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.

The letter started out by Paul scolding them for being divisive over different ministries and teachers. Here he is explaining that the people teaching and ministering didn't have a problem. Paul's heart is for God to use whatever vessel He desires to do the work. We should welcome help from others as long as we see fruit (aka love) in their lives. I'm excited when I have the opportunity to teach at other fellowships or am able to give others a chance to teach at CFoE. We are blessed with very talented people in the fellowship and I look forward to seeing them bless others too. When we help one another, we are "refreshed in the spirit!"

1 Corinthians 16 - Outline

Chapter 16

• Paul Deals with Gift Offering (1-4)
  
• Paul's Plans (5-8)
  
• Ministry of Timothy and Apollos (10-12)
  
• Paul's Exhortation (13-18)
• Let other's help
• Salutations (19-22)
  

1 Kings 19 - Thoughts

This chapter deals with the depression, disappointment and discouragement that can come from our missed expectations. Does God want us to have expectations? I believe the answer is yes and no...

What should we be expecting?
- Jesus' return
- God's faithfulness
- Principles such as reaping and sowing being true

Basically, anything in God's word that is a promise or principle we can EXPECT to be true and count on it. Anything outside may be dangerous. I believe God wants us to dream and desire to see "big" things happen for the kingdom, but we cannot allow these to be expectations because God may not work the way we think He should. As a matter of fact, He usually doesn't.

If I trace back all the times I've been discouraged, depressed and disappointed, I can always find a point in my life where I've set up my own expectations of how things should be or how things should go.

May we be men and women who dream of God's work impacting our world in a mighty way, but allow Him to do what He wants to do with us and find contentment in knowing how much He loves us and wants good for us.

1 Kings 18:44 - 19:21

Basic Outline for the end of chapter 18 and chapter 19

• Elijah's Expectations (18:46-19:3)
  
• Beginnings of Depression (4-)
  
• God Provides Rest and Nourishment (5-7)
  
• God Provides Direction (9)
  
• God Provides Instruction (10-12)
  
• God Commands Him to Now Minister to Others (13-17)
  
• God Reminds us He is Still In Control (18)
  
• God Calls Elisha (19-21)
  

1 Corinthians 15 - Thoughts

If the LORD is God, follow Him; but if Baal (worldly pursuits), follow him. (I Kings 18:21)

I'm always amazed how the Saturday night and Tuesday night studies go hand-in-hand. Elijah gets to a point in his life where he tells others, "Look... if God is real... then do something about it. Act like you believe His Word." In 1 Corinthians, Paul goes through the logical progression of reason dealing with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. If He is risen, follow Him. If not, we are of all men the most pitiable.

One of the best things I've done as a Christian was to really question and research the claims of Christianity, the Bible and of Jesus Christ. I didn't doubt my beliefs, but I needed to logically sort things out in my mind. Now I can say, "I am certain this is true, therefore I need to allow Him to change my life and live for Him."

1 Corinthians 15 - Outline

Basic outline of chapter 15:

• Paul reminds them of the simplicity of the gospel (1-2)
• Our faith is a reasonable faith (3-11)
• Paul uses stoic logic to explain the necessity of believing in the resurrection (12-19)
• The result of the resurrection. (20-28)
• The result of not believing in the resurrection using epicurean reason. (29-34)
• Paul deals with possible objections. (35-49)
• Victory over death equals victory over sin. (50-58)

A new blog

I originally setup a blog to capture our adventures here in Sydney Australia, but soon this blog was managed by my lovely wife and I find myself never posting there. So, I wanted a "wall" to jot down my thoughts as I study God's Word and prepare for different studies during the week. This will allow me to go back and review them on occasion.