July | August | September 2014

C O N T E N T S
Page Passage Date

4 1Chronicles 25:1-29:3 July 1-6

10 2Chronicles 1:1-21:20 July 7-31
37 Acts 13:1-19:41 August 1-15
52 INTRODUCTION TO AMOS
53 Amos 1:1-9:15 August 16-26
64 INTRODUCTION TO OBADIAH
65 Obadiah 1:1-21 August 27
66 INTRDUCTION TO JONAH
67 Jonah 1:1-4:11 August 28-31
72 2Chronicles 22:1-36:23 September 1-21
93 INTRODUCTION TO EZRA
94 Ezra 1:1-10:44 September 22-30
104 UBF Chapter Directors List

Writers: Dennis Miller, Jose P. Ahn, Darren Gruett, Kevin Jesmer, Steve Stasinos, Tony King

presented to:
 July
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5

Preach the word; be prepared in season

and out of season; correct, rebuke, and
encouragewith great patience
6 7 8 9 0 11 12
and careful instruction

2 Timothy 4:2

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

2
 Tuesday, July
GATEKEEPERS, TREASURERS, AND OFFICIALS
1 Chronicles 26:1-32
These divisions of the gatekeepers, through their leaders, had duties for
ministering in the temple of the LORD, just as their relatives had. (12)
First, the gatekeepers (26:1-19). Three families of Levites comprised the
division of gatekeepers: the families of Meshelemiah, Obed-Edom, and
Hosah. These families filled important roles in the day to day functioning
of the temple of the LORD. An important decision had to be made in
assigning these roles. By casting lots, the Levites entrusted this decision
to God and made no discrimination between the young and the old. The
lot for the East gate fell to Shelemiah, the North Gate to his son Zecha-
riah, the South Gate to Obed-Edom, and the West Gate to Shupppim and
Hosah. God raised up able men among these families who were capable
of fulfilling these duties. There are many important roles in the church
today. We can trust God to lead us to the positions of service that he has
planned and equipped us for.
Second, treasurers and other officials (20-32). Shubael, a descendant
of Moses, supervised all the treasuries. The descendants of Ladan over-
saw the treasuries of the temple while Shelosmith and his relatives were
in charge of the treasuries for dedicated things. The Izharites and the
Hebronites served as civil officials for the tribes west of the Jordan. How
has God called you to serve?
Thank you, Lord, for giving each of us a role.
ONE WORD: Perform the duty the Lord has given!
4 7/8/9
1 Wednesday, July 2
THE LEADERS OF ISRAEL
1 Chronicles 27:1-34
This is the list of the Israelites heads of families, commanders of thousands and
commanders of hundreds, and their officers, who served the king. (1a)
First, leaders of the army and tribes (1-24). To complement the previous
lists of religious leaders, the chronicler now lists King Davids military
and political leaders. First, the divisions of Israels militia are listed, each
with the name of their leader. All twelve of these leaders were among
Davids mighty warriors, including Benaiah, who received special note for
his valor and leadership. Next, the leaders of each tribe are listed. These
names emphasize the need for competent leadership in all areas of life and
the importance of having leaders who put their trust in God. Verses 23-24
remind us of the painful time when David conducted a census of the men
who were of fighting age. In doing so, he failed to trust the promise of
God to make the descendants of Abraham as numerous as the stars.
Second, overseers and advisors (25-34). The overseers were the lead-
ers responsible for the kings treasuries, agriculture, wine and oil, and
livestock. The kingdom depended on these sources of revenue to func-
tion. Finally, the kings personal advisers are listed. Their insight and
companionship were invaluable to the king.
Father, raise up competent and godly leaders in our time to be good stewards for
your kingdom.
ONE WORD: Pray for godly leaders!
5
 Thursday, July
BE STRONG AND DO THE WORK
1 Chronicles 28:1-10
Consider now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a house as the sanctuary.
Be strong and do the work. (10)
First, Gods choice of builder (1-8). David had desired to build a temple
for the LORD, but God declared that it would be one of his offspring who
would build the temple. Now, with the succession of Solomon, that time
had come. The task was formidable. More than just another architectural
wonder, the temple represented the presence of God among his people and
it was to be a place of prayer, atonement, and worship. Solomon was com-
manded to be strong and do the work. But how could he do that? First, he
had the assurance of Gods calling. Of all Davids sons, Solomon was the
one chosen by God. Second, God granted Solomon a wonderful promise,
saying I will be his father. Furthermore, Solomon had the support of
Gods people. All the officials of Israel were gathered and commissioned
to support the construction. God provides the strength we need.
Second, instructions for Solomon (9-10). Solomons part was to
acknowledge the God of his father and to serve him with wholehearted
devotion and a willing mind. This is what God desires from all his people
a heart that seeks Him. God promises to reveal himself to those with
this kind of heart. If Solomon sought God, he would find him.
Father, thank you for giving us the strength to work.
ONE WORD: Be strong and do Gods work
6 7/8/9
3 Friday, July 4
SOLOMON RECEIVES THE TEMPLE PLANS
1 Chronicles 28:11-21
Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He
will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of
the LORD is finished. (20b)
First, the plans for the temple (11-19). David passed on to Solomon
detailed plans for the layout of the temple area, the organization of temple
servants, and the temple articles and furnishings. We see a beautiful
partnership between the Lord, King David, and his son Solomon. The
Lords hand was on David as he enabled David to understand all the
details of the plan. David acquired the materials, organized the people,
and drew up the plans. Now, it was up to Solomon, representing the next
generation, to implement the plans and build the temple. Today, Gods
people are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives
by his spirit. We have received the dreams of previous generations and
have benefitted from their preparations. It is now time to be strong and
work, like Solomon, for the glory of God in our generation.
Second, courage for the task (20-21). Solomon was young and inexpe-
rienced. No doubt, he was afraid of the task at hand. However, he could
have courage because God was with him. This had been the secret of
Davids strength. Solomon could put his trust in God because God never
fails or abandons his people.
Lord, give us courage to work for your kingdom.
ONE WORD: Do not be afraid for God is with you!
7
 Saturday, July
GIFTS FOR THE TEMPLE
1 Chronicles 29:1-9
The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given
freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly. (9)
First, Davids example (1-5). David turned to the assembled leaders of
Israel and made an appeal for their support. The building of the temple
was a great task because it was for the LORD and not for man. It was a
task that belonged to the whole nation. As king, David labored to accu-
mulate vast quantities of precious materials for the temple. However,
David did not stop there but gave freely from his own personal treasures
of gold and silver as well. After setting a good example, David challenged
the leaders saying, Now, who is willing to consecrate themselves to the
LORD today? This was a key moment. Gifts from the leaders would
reflect the nations devotion to God.
Second, giving leads to joy (6-9). The leaders responded by giving
generously to the temple and their response led to a great joy among the
people. Such free and wholehearted giving pleases the LORD. Jesus said,
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken
together and running over, will be poured into your lap. Giving is an
act of worship and an expression of thanksgiving to the Lord. The Lord
blesses such heartfelt devotion to him by sharing his joy with us.
Father, help us to give freely from our hearts.
ONE WORD: Offer your gifts to the LORD
8 7/8/9
5 Sunday, July 6
DAVID PRAYS FOR THE PEOPLE AND HIS SON
1 Chronicles 29:10-30
LORD, the God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep these desires and
thoughts in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you.
(18)
First, Davids prayer (10-20). David praised the LORD as the majestic
and sovereign ruler of heaven and earth. The LORD is the owner of all
things and the abundance of materials for the temple came from the
LORDs own hand. David humbly recognized the grace of God saying,
Who am I, and who are my people that we should be able to give as
generously as this? David then prayed for his people. He prayed that
the thoughts and desires of their hearts would remain loyal to the LORD
forever. Jesus said, Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. A
pure heart before God is the most important prayer topic we can have for
ourselves and our children. This was Davids prayer for his son Solomon.
Second, Solomon becomes king (21-30). The next day, the people made
sacrifices and presented offerings to the LORD. Solomon was anointed
a second time as king over Israel and he sat on the throne of the LORD
in place of his father David. God exalted Solomon with a royal splendor.
This wondrous and joyful time was a foretaste of the kingdom of our
Lord Jesus Christ, whose righteousness and splendor eclipse all others.
Lord, give us willing hearts that are loyal to you.
ONE WORD: Pray for a heart that pleases God
9
 Monday, July
SOLOMON ASKS FOR WISDOM
2 Chronicles 1:1-17
Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to
govern this great people of yours? (10)
First, give me wisdom (1-10). As God promised, Solomon succeeded
David and became exceedingly great over his kingdom. What Solomon
did first was to acknowledge God and give thanks to him before the whole
assembly of Israel. He offered a thousand burnt offerings. That night God
appeared and said, Ask for whatever you want me to give you. Solomon
knew he was appointed by God to serve Gods people. So he humbly asked,
Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead your people.
Second, I will also give you what you did not ask (11-17). The Lord
was pleased with Solomons hearts desires. He gave him wisdom and
knowledge to lead his people to love God. He also gave him wealth and
honor as no king ever had nor would ever have. It reminds us of Jesus
promises in Matthew 6:33,Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness
and everything will be given to you as well.
Lord, help me to seek you first and to love your people.
ONE WORD: God first, others second and me last!
10
7 Tuesday, July 8
SOLOMON PREPARED FOR BUILDING THE TEMPLE
2 Chronicles 2:1-16
The temple I am going to build will be great, because our God is greater than all
other gods. (5)
First, the temple for burnt offerings (1-10). Following Gods will, Solo-
mon was ready to build the temple. He asked technical and material
support from Hiram, king of Tyre. Solomon said, No one can make
a temple for the great God, since the highest heavens cannot contain
him. Solomon only wanted to use it to burn incense (pray) and set the
consecrate bread (listen to the word of God) and to offer burnt offerings
(forgiveness of sins). Now Jesus is our true temple; through his sacrifice
we are forgiven. He is the word of God and he hears our prayers.
Second, praise be to the God of Israel (11-16). Hiram praised God of
heaven and earth for allowing a wise son to succeed David and to build
the temple. He willingly agreed to send Huram the most skillful worker
and cedar and logs. It shows that the Gentiles will join and come to the
new temple Jesus with willing heart.
Lord, who can build a temple for the great God? Only Jesus can. He is our
true temple.
ONE WORD: Great God is our Lord!
7/8/9 11
 Wednesday, July
SOLOMON BUILDS THE TEMPLE
2 Chronicles 2:17-3:17
He erected the pillars in the front of the temple, one to the south and one to
the north. The one to the south he named Jakin and the one to the north Boaz.
(3:17)
First, on Mount Moriah (2:17-3:2). Solomon involved 153,600 foreign-
ers a shadow of a large number of Gentiles who would later work for Jesus,
Gods new temple. The temple was built in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah
where Abraham offered Isaac, where God the Father offered his only Son
Jesus for our sins. The site was where David offered repentant offerings
after counting the fighting men. When we come to God, we must serve
as the foreigners did offering our Isaac with Davids repentant heart too.
Second, the most holy place and two pillars (3:3-17). The temple was
made exactly as God had shown to Moses. Pure gold and precious stones
were used to show Gods glory. The most holy place was blocked by the
curtain. But the curtain was torn in two by Jesus sacrifice allowing all to
go to the Lord. The two pillars, Jakin (He establishes) and Boaz (In him is
strength) show that it is not the temple but the Lord God who establishes
us and in God is our strength.
Lord, thank you for the true temple Jesus on him we are established and in him
is our strength.
ONE WORD: Jesus, our true temple
12
9 Thursday, July 10
THE TEMPLE FURNISHINGS
2 Chronicles 4:1-5:1
Solomon also made all the furnishings that were in Gods temple. (4:19a)
First, Bronze altar, Sea (4:1-18). The bronze altar was for the sacrifi-
cial offering for the forgiveness of sins that had to be done endlessly. But
Jesus offered himself once and for all to forgive all our sins. The sea was
to wash as cleansing our sins with the blood of Jesus. The ten lampstands
show that Jesus is the light of the world. The ten tables of bread show the
abundance of the spiritual bread, the word of God. All furnishings had
one purpose to be used for the forgiveness of sins. As Huram the best
art worker of those days worked for the temple, we must give our best
in Gods work.
Second, pure gold altar (4:19-5:1). The golden altar was for burning
incense as our prayer. The pure gold used especially for the inner doors
of the Most Holy place shows God is everlasting, never changing, full of
glory and honor. Solomon brought the gold and silver that David had
dedicated to the temple treasuries. We must honor the Lord God with
the best we have.
Lord, thank you for Jesus, the true temple who offered himself to forgive our sins.
Help us to offer our best to the Lord.
ONE WORD: Repent, be cleansed and offer the best to Jesus
7/8/9 13
 Friday, July 11
THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLED THE TEMPLE
2 Chronicles 5:2-14
And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory
of the LORD filled the temple of God. (14)
First, the Ark (2-10). Now everything was ready except the Ark to be
put in the Most Holy Place. Solomon summoned all the Israelites. The
Levites took up the Ark. There was nothing but the two tablets, the Ten
Commandments, the word of the Lord. The priests put the Ark in the
Most Holy Place.
Second, the glory of the Lord filled the temple (11-14). The Levites with
120 priests played instruments to praise and give thanks to the Lord while
the singers raised their voices, He is good; his love endures forever! Then
the temple was filled with the glory of the Lord. God is pleased when the
temple is filled with the word of God, praise and prayer.
Lord, let the Word of God be in my most inner heart, with praise and thanksgiv-
ing too.
ONE WORD: Jesus, the Word is my center!
14
Saturday, July 12
THE LORD KEPT HIS PROMISES
2 Chronicles 6:1-11
The LORD has kept the promise he made. I have succeeded David my father and
now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised, and I have built the
temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel. (10)
First, your son will build the temple for me (1-9). Now Solomon made
a magnificent temple. He wholeheartedly rendered all the glory to God.
He revealed how God chose Jerusalem to put his name and David to rule
over his people. The Lord was pleased with Davids desire but rather chose
his son to build his temple. For God had a larger plan through Jesus, the
descendant of David to build the true temple of God through his death
and resurrection.
Second, Just as the Lord promised (10-11). Solomon praised God for
keeping his promises. For God made him succeed David and build the
temple. Solomon finished the temple by placing the Ark in the temple.
However, Gods plan was far greater than Solomon could imagine. Gods
promise to build his true temple was also accomplished by Jesus, the
descendant of David.
Lord, thank you for keeping all your promises to David and build the true temple
through Jesus, the descendant of David.
ONE WORD: Jesus, the true temple, fulfilled all the promises of God!
7/8/9 15
 Sunday, July 13
SOLOMONS PRAYER (I)
2 Chronicles 6:12-21
Hear the supplications of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray
toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear,
forgive. (21)
First, let your promise come true (12-17). Solomon knelt down before
the Lord. He praised God for his greatness. He thanked God for keep-
ing his promises to make him Davids successor and to let him build
the temple. He further prayed that Gods promises to David come true,
You shall never fail to have a successor, if only your descendants walk
according to Gods law.
Second, hear from heaven (18-21). Solomon knew that God couldnt
really dwell in the man-made temple. Even the highest heavens cannot
contain the Lord. Yet Solomon prayed that: God may give attention to
those who cry in prayer in the temple. God may see and hear the sup-
plications of his people when they pray toward this place. God may hear
from heaven and forgive.
Lord, thank you for keeping all your promises. Thank you for giving the better
temple, Jesus through him we can come to you always. Hear and see our prayers
in Jesus name and forgive us.
ONE WORD: Hear our prayer and forgive
16
Monday, July 14
SOLOMONS PRAYER (II)
2 Chronicles 6:22-42
Then hear from heaven, your dwelling place. Do whatever the foreigner asks of
you, so that all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as
do your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears your
Name. (33)
First, prayer for the peoples (22-31, 34-42). Solomon prayed that the
temple might be the place to restore relationships. The temple is a house
of prayer for the nation in war, in famine and in disasters. Through the
sacrifice God may forgive all their sins that caused war, famine and disas-
ters. In 34-42 Solomon prayed to return those who sin against the Lord
and became captives in foreign land, if they repent and pray sincerely.
Solomon blessed his people to rejoice in Gods goodness.
Second, prayer for foreigners (32-33). Solomon prayed for the foreign-
ers who come from afar hearing of Gods great name. The temple is the
house of prayer for all nations. He foresaw the Gentiles returning to God
through Jesus.
Lord, thank you for the privilege to pray in Jesus name. Answer all our prayers
and let your name be known to all people.
ONE WORD: So that all people may fear you!
7/8/9 17
 Tuesday, July 15
THE TEMPLE DEDICATION
2 Chronicles 7:1-22
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and
seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and
I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (14)
First, fire from heaven (1-10). When Solomon finished prayer, God
accepted his prayers with fire from heaven that consumed the burnt
offering, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. All worshiped giv-
ing thanks to God who is good and whose love endures forever. Solomon
celebrated the temple dedication seven days more offering 22,000 bulls,
120,000 sheep and goats. After worshiping God wholeheartedly the people
returned with joy and gladness.
Second, the Lord appeared to Solomon (11-22). Then the Lord appeared
to Solomon and confirmed, if Gods people humble themselves and pray
in repentance, God would hear and heal the land. God also will keep his
promise to David not to fail his descendants to be kings if they whole-
heartedly serve the Lord and obey his command. However, if they turn
from God and forsake him, then curses will follow.
Lord, you are good and your love endures forever. Help us to love you and obey
your command wholeheartedly.
ONE WORD: Blessed in obedience, cursed in rebellion.
18
Wednesday, July 16
SOLOMONS REIGN
2 Chronicles 8:1-18
All Solomons work was carried out, from the day the foundation of the temple
of the LORD was laid until its completion. So the temple of the LORD was
finished. (16)
First, Solomons administration (1-10). Solomon rebuilt the villages and
settled people in them. He also built all the store cities, for his chariots and
for his horses. He used all Canaanites as slaves (fulfilling Noahs curse on
Hams descendants). But the Israelites were all free, becoming his officials.
Second, Solomons double life (11-22). Solomon did everything accord-
ing to the Law of Moses, making sacrificial offerings daily, on the Sabbath,
the New Moons and the three annual festivals. He followed all David had
appointed for the divisions of the priests, of the Levites and of the gate-
keepers. God blessed him with plenty of gold. But he married Pharaohs
daughter for whatever reasons perhaps political purposes. He did this
even though he knew it was against Gods command. So he compromised
by not allowing her to live in Jerusalem, because it was a holy city.
Lord, when you bless me abundantly, help me not to live a double life but whole-
heartedly follow you.
ONE WORD: Love God with an undivided heart!
7/8/9 19
 Thursday, July 17
SOLOMON AND THE QUEEN OF SHEBA
2 Chronicles 9:1-31
Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on
his throne as king to rule for the LORD your God. Because of the love of your
God for Israel and his desire to uphold them forever, he has made you king over
them, to maintain justice and righteousness. (8)
First, the queen of Sheba praised the Lord (1-12). She came to test
Solomon. But she was overwhelmed by Solomons wisdom, temple and
all far exceeding than the rumors. She praised the God of Solomon. She
offered large quantities of gold and gifts. Jesus said, The queen of the
south will rise at the judgment because someone greater than Solomon
is here but you refused to listen. (Matt 12:42)
Second, the splendor of Solomon (13-31). God blessed Solomon so
much that he made gold shields and a gold throne with 12 lions on the
steps. All his household articles were of pure gold. All the kings on earth
sought audience with him to hear his wisdom bearing him a precious
gift. He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River as far as the
border of Egypt.
Lord, you bless those who seek you wholeheartedly. Help us to come to Jesus who
gave wisdom and wealth to Solomon.
ONE WORD: Come and listen to Jesus!
20
Friday, July 18
REHOBOAM
2 Chronicles 10:1-19
So the king did not listen to the people, for this turn of events was from God, to
fulfill the word the LORD had spoken to Jeroboam son of Nebat through Ahijah
the Shilonite. (15)
First, Rehoboam rejected good advice (1-15). To the new king
Rehoboam, the Israelites with Jeroboam appealed, If you lighten the
harsh labor, then we will serve you. Rehoboam consulted both the elders
and the young men. Then he rejected the elders who said, Be kind and
give them a favorable answer. Instead, he followed the young men and
answered harshly to the Israelites. But this turn of events came from God
who foretold Jeroboam to be a king for the sin of Solomon.
Second, Israel departed from Judah (16-19). The people were so upset
with the kings harsh answer that all Israel returned home saying, Look
after your own house, David! Only Judah remained and Rehoboam
reigned over them. When Solomon sinned against God, the Lord began
to divide Israel in two.
Lord, your word comes true always both the blessed words and the curses.
ONE WORD: God is merciful but just
7/8/9 21
 Saturday, July 19
THIS IS MY DOING
2 Chronicles 11:1-23
This is what the LORD says: Do not go up to fight against your fellow Israelites.
Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing. So they obeyed the words of the
LORD and turned back from marching against Jeroboam. (4)
First, do not go to fight Israel (1-4). Rehoboam wanted to fight against
Northern Israel with 180,000 soldiers, but the Lords prophet said, Do
not go up to fight, for this is my doing. Thus they obeyed God and turned
back from marching against Jeroboam.
Second, priests and Levites came to Rehoboam (5-23). Rehoboam forti-
fied many cities for defense in Judah. He put commanders in them with
supplies, shields and spears in all the cities, and made them very strong.
So Judah and Benjamin were his. Then the priests and Levites abandoned
their properties and came to Jerusalem. They left Israel because Jeroboam
appointed his own priests to worship idols. Those who set their hearts on
seeking the Lord followed them and came to offer sacrifices in Jerusalem.
They strengthened the kingdom of Judah and supported Rehoboam fol-
lowing the ways of David.
Lord, help me to follow your will with all my heart.
ONE WORD: Follow the Sovereign Lord!
22
Sunday, July 20
SHISHAK ATTACKS JERUSALEM
2 Chronicles 12:1-16
When the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, this word of the LORD
came to Shemaiah: Since they have humbled themselves, I will not destroy
them but will soon give them deliverance. My wrath will not be poured out on
Jerusalem through Shishak. (7)
First, for Rehoboam abandoned Gods laws (1-5). When Rehoboam
became strong by Gods grace, he and Israel abandoned the law of the
Lord. Because they had been unfaithful to the Lord, Shishak king of
Egypt attacked Jerusalem. He captured the fortified cities and came near
Jerusalem. The prophet Shemaiah fearlessly went to Rehoboam and the
leaders of Judah and proclaimed, This is what the Lord says, You have
abandoned me; therefore, I now abandon you to Shishak.
Second, for Rehoboam humbled himself (6-23). Rehoboam and the
leaders of Judah humbled themselves and said, The Lord is just. So the
Lord did not destroy Judah. Instead, God let them serve Shishak to learn
how difficult it would be to serve foreign kings instead of the Lord God
the King of kings. Still Rehoboam did evil because of the bad influence
of his mother, who was an Ammonite.
Lord, thank you for forgiving all of my sins when I repent.
ONE WORD: Be humble and return to the Lord.
7/8/9 23
 Monday, July 21
AS FOR US, THE LORD IS OUR GOD
2 Chronicles 13:1-22
As for us, the LORD is our God, and we have not forsaken him. The priests who
serve the LORD are sons of Aaron, and the Levites assist them. (10)
First, God is with us (1-12). There was war between Abijah and Jeroboam.
400,000 soldiers were for Abijah and 800,000 belonged to Jeroboam. But
Abijah was not afraid of them. He rather rebuked Jeroboam for resisting
Gods kingdom given to David and his descendants by Gods covenant
and for forsaking the Lord by worshiping a gold calf and setting up false
priests. Abijah was confident that the Lord was with them for they did not
forsake God and the priests were from the Levites. He warned Israelites
not to fight against the Lord.
Second, God routed Israel (13-22). But Jeroboam attacked Judah at both
front and rear in ambush. Then the men of Judah cried out to God. The
priests blew their trumpets. Then God routed Israel before Abijah. Judah
could defeat the stronger enemies with a double number of soldiers, for
they relied on the Lord.
Lord, as for me, God is my Lord. Let me defeat all Gods enemies in Jesus name.
ONE WORD: Rely on the Lord!
24
Tuesday, July 22
GOD BLESSED ASA WHO RELIED ON THE LORD
2 Chronicles 14:1-15
Then Asa called to the LORD his God and said, LORD, there is no one like you
to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, LORD our God, for we rely on
you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. LORD, you are our
God; do not let mere mortals prevail against you. (11)
First, God gave Asa rest (1-7). Asa did what was good and right in the
eyes of the Lord. He removed even the high places. He commanded Judah
to seek the Lord and to obey his laws and commands. Then no one was
at war with Judah, for the Lord gave him rest. He built up the fortified
cities seeking the Lord who gave them rest on every side.
Second, the Lord gave victory to the powerless (8-15). Though Asa had
a large number of soldiers who were all brave fighting men, he felt pow-
erless before the Cushites who marched out with a vast army and three
hundreds chariots. But Asa relied on the Lord who helps the powerless
against the mighty. Then the Lord struck down the Cushites. So Asa
carried off a large amount of plunder.
Lord, you are mighty God who gives rest to those who seek you. You give victory
to the powerless against the mighty when they rely on you.
ONE WORD: The Mighty Lord is our God!
7/8/9 25
 Wednesday, July 23
ASAS REFORM
2 Chronicles 15:1-19
But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded. (7)
First, be strong and dont give up (1-7). In those days Israel was idol
worshiping. So God troubled them and travel was not safe. Nation crushed
each other. All the lands were in great turmoil. Then Azariah with the
Spirit of God said to Asa, Listen, the Lord is with you when you are with
him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he
will forsake you. But as for you, Be strong and do not give up, for your
work will be rewarded.
Second, the Lord gave them rest (8-19). So Asa took courage. He
removed all the detestable idols from the whole land. He repaired the
altar of the Lord. He assembled all his people and entered into a covenant
to seek the Lord with all their heart and soul. All who would not seek the
Lord were put to death. They rejoiced because they sought God whole-
heartedly. Asa even deposed his grandmother for her Asherah worship.
Asas heart was fully committed to the Lord all his life. So the Lord gave
them rest on every side.
Lord, give us courage to remove all idols from our hearts.
ONE WORD: Be strong and dont give up!
26
Thursday, July 24
THE EYES OF THE LORD
2 Chronicles 16:1-14
For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose
hearts are fully committed to him. (9a)
First, Asa relied on Aram (1-9). In the 36th year of Asas reign, the
king of Israel prevented anyone from leaving or entering Asas territory.
Instead of praying or relying on the Lord, Asa asked Ben-Hadad, the king
of Aram to save him by giving him silver and gold from the temple. It
worked. But it was a spiritual disaster. God sent Hanani to rebuke Asas
reliance on the king of Aram. The eyes of the Lord range throughout
the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.
Second, Asa did not repent (10-19). Asa was furious and put Hanani
into prison. Later, when he got sick with a severe disease, he did not seek
help from the Lord. So Asa died in the 41st year of his reign.
Lord, have mercy on me to keep on living by faith from the beginning to the end!
ONE WORD: Repent and rely on the Lord to the end!
7/8/9 27
 Friday, July 25
JEHOSHAPHAT BECAME MORE POWERFUL
2 Chronicles 17:1-19
His heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord; furthermore, he removed the high
places and the Asherah poles from Judah (6)
First, Jehoshaphat sought God (1-9). When Jehoshaphat followed
Davids ways, God was with him. He did not consult the Baals but sought
God and followed his commands. His heart was devoted to Gods ways.
He removed the high places and cut down the Asherah poles. He sent
many Bible teachers to teach Gods words around all the towns of Judah.
So the Lord established his kingdom under his control and he became
wealthy with great honor.
Second, Jehoshaphat became more powerful (10-19). When the king
feared God and his people had the word of God, the fear of the Lord fell
on all the kingdoms. So they did not go up against Jehoshaphat. Some
Philistines and some Arabs brought gifts and silver and innumerous rams
and goats as tribute. So Jehoshaphat became more and more powerful
with many store cities. He had experienced fighting men around him in
Jerusalem and in many stored cities too.
Lord, raise God-fearing leaders and many bible teachers to teach the word to all
people. Help me to seek you with all my heart and teach your word to all those
around me.
ONE WORD: Devote your heart to God
28
Saturday, July 26
JEHOSHAPHAT AND AHAB
2 Chronicles 18:1-11
But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, First seek the counsel of the
LORD. (4)
First, seek first the counsel of the Lord (1-6).\ Jehoshaphat had great
wealth and honor by seeking God first. But he allied himself with Ahab
king of Israel by giving his son to Ahabs daughter with no prayer. It
looked good for national security. But this caused his sons ruin and
Judahs idol worship. When Ahab urged Jehoshaphat to go to war against
Ramoth Gilead, Jehoshaphat had to pray first but he did not. Instead, he
just went to war because of his in-law relationship. Later he asked, First
seek the counsel of the Lord. Then 400 prophets altogether said, Go and
God will give it into the kings hand. But Jehoshaphat was still uncon-
vinced and asked another prophet to be fully convinced.
Second, Micaiah and Zedekiah (7-11). Ahab had a bad habit to listen to
only those who spoke to him favorably. He hated Micaiah for he always
prophesied against him. While Micaiah was called, Zedekiah flattered
the king with iron horns declaring, This is what the Lord says, With
these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed.
Lord, help me to inquire of the Lord always not just occasionally.
ONE WORD: First and always inquire of the Lord!
7/8/9 29
 Sunday, July 27
MICAIAH AND AHAB
2 Chronicles 18:12-34
But Micaiah said, As surely as the LORD lives, I can tell him only what my God
says. (13)
First, Micaiah the truthful prophet (12-27). The messenger advised
Micaiah to agree with others who predicted success for the king. But he
answered, I can tell only what my God says. He fearlessly told the sol-
emn truth about the kings death. He also explained very well about the
deceiving spirits released to convince the king. But the king would not
listen to him. He rather followed Zedekiah with an order, Put Micaiah
into prison until I return. But Micaiah knew he would not return. He
asked all people to mark Gods word that would come true.
Second, Ahabs death (28-34). Ahab then went to war. But he disguised
himself to escape Gods prophecy. Arameans wanted to kill only Ahab. So
they let Jehoshaphat go when he cried out, because God allowed him to
escape. But someone drew a bow and shot at random piercing Ahab that
led him to die. Ahab could not escape Gods word with his own smartness.
Lord, your words are absolutely and accurately fulfilled. Let me listen to your
word and repent and live. Let me speak only what God says.
ONE WORD: Listen to Gods word and live!
30
Monday, July 28
JEHOSHAPHAT
2 Chronicles 19:1-11
He gave them these orders: You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the
fear of the LORD. (9)
First, should you help the wicked? (1-3). Jehoshaphat barely escaped
the sword of Aram and returned safely only by Gods grace. But God
rebuked him for his unholy alliance through the prophet Jehu, Should
you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Because of this,
the wrath of the Lord is on you. But God recognized some good in him
such as destroying the Asherah poles. Gods rebuke was out of his love.
Second, Jehoshaphat appointed judges (4-11). Jehoshaphat repented
and sought God. He appointed some of the Levites, priests, and heads of
Israelite families to administer the law of the Lord and to settle disputes.
He gave them strict orders to serve the people faithfully and wholeheart-
edly in the fear of the Lord, for they were not judging for mere mortals
but for the Lord. They should warn the people not to sin against the Lord.
Lord, let me not help the wicked or God haters. Let me repent and live for Gods
glory.
ONE WORD: Administer justice before the Lord!
7/8/9 31
 Tuesday, July 29
JEHOSHAPHAT BEGGED FOR HELP FROM THE LORD
2 Chronicles 20:1-13
Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army
that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you. (12)
First, a vast army against Jehoshaphat (1-2). Later on, the Moabites and
Ammonites with some of the Meunites declared war against Judah. Word
reached Jehoshaphat, a vast army is already in Hazezon-Tamar, a days
travel time! It was Gods punishment against Jehoshaphats sin to make
an alliance with Ahab (19:2) What should he do?
Second, Jehoshaphat fasted and prayed (3-13). Alarmed, yet Jehoshaphat
resolved to inquire of the Lord through fasting with all the people: men,
women and children. Jehoshaphat stood up and prayed praising the Lord
as the Ruler over all the kingdoms. He remembered the history of Gods
giving the land to the descendants of Abraham forever. He prayed believ-
ing Gods promises that he would hear and save when they pray in time
of calamities before the temple. Now he admitted his powerlessness and
helplessness not knowing what to do. But his eyes were fixed on the Lord
for his salvation.
Lord, calamities come always. Help me to use the disastrous moments to come to
you and totally trust in you.
ONE WORD: Fix your eyes on the Lord in time of calamity
32
Wednesday, July 30
THE BATTLE IS GODS
2 Chronicles 20:14-37
Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not
yours, but Gods. (15b)
First, do not be afraid (14-19). Then the Spirit of the Lord spoke through
Jahaziel, Dont be discouraged because of this vast army. The battle is
not yours, but Gods. Tomorrow march down against them. You need not
fight. Stand firm and see the deliverance of the Lord. Jehoshaphat with
the people bowed down in worship before the Lord. Some Levites praised
the Lord with a loud voice, a shout of victory before fighting.
Second, they sang to the Lord in the battle (20-37). When Judah
marched against the enemies, Jehoshaphat encouraged all to have faith
in the Lord. He appointed men to sing to the Lord in front of the army.
Then the Lord confused them. The enemies began to fight each other
until all were destroyed. No one escaped. The men of Judah gathered the
plunder for four days and returned joyfully to Jerusalem. The fear of God
came on all the surrounding nations. God gave Judah rest on every side.
Lord, the battles belong to you. Help me to stand firm trusting in you whole-
heartedly.
ONE WORD: See the deliverance of the Lord!
7/8/9 33
 Thursday, July 31 August
JEHORAM AN EVIL KING Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

2 Chronicles 21:1-20 1 2
Nevertheless, because of the covenant the LORD had made with David, the
LORD was not willing to destroy the house of David. He had promised to
maintain a lamp for him and his descendants forever. (7)
First, for he married a daughter of Ahab (1-7). Jehoram, the first among
many sons of Jehoshaphat, became king. Jehoshaphat tried to care for
his children but he had his first son marry the daughter of Ahab and
Jezebel. Because of the bad influence of one woman, Jehoram killed all 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
his brothers. He followed the ways of the kings of Israel doing evil in the
eyes of the Lord. Nevertheless, God kept his promise to maintain a lamp
for David, especially Jesus among his descendants.
Second, Elijahs letter to Jehoram (8-20). Elijah sent a letter but Jehoram
did not repent. So all what God warned through Elijah was fulfilled: The
Philistines and Arabs invaded and carried off all the goods together with
his sons and wives except his youngest. His bowels came out and finally 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
he died. He was not buried in the tombs of the kings.
Praise the Lord who kept the lamp of David, Jesus in spite of mens wickedness.
Raise many godly women among us.
ONE WORD: Jesus, the lamp of David

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

34
 Friday, August 1
BARNABAS AND SAUL ARE SENT OUT
Acts 13:1-12
While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, Set apart
for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them. (2)
First, the Holy Spirit calls Barnabas and Saul (1-3). Chapter 13 marks
a turning point in the book of Acts, focusing on the spread of the gospel
to Gentiles more than Jews. Not surprising then, this work began at the
church in Antioch, the first Gentile church. It was there that the Holy
Spirit called Barnabas and Saul for this important task. Notably, this call
came while they were worshiping the Lord. With their hearts right before
him, they were ready when he spoke. It also teaches us an important les-
son relevant even today, that is, Gods best workers are first worshipers
of him.
Second, preaching on Cyprus (4-12). Not far from Antioch was the
island of Cyprus, which is where Saul and Barnabas began their mis-
sionary journey. Although they started preaching first in the synagogues,
there is no recorded fruit of this endeavor (5). However, despite opposition
(8), they were successful in preaching the gospel to the Roman proconsul
in Paphos (12). This was no small matter, since he was in a position of
great influence. With this one act, the ministry to the Gentiles began to
grow and move forward.
Lord, give us hearts to worship and serve you that we may hear your voice and
answer your call.
ONE WORD: Worship the Lord and listen to him

36 7/8/9 37
 Saturday, August 2 Sunday, August
IN PISIDIAN ANTIOCH
Acts 13:13-41
Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of
sins is proclaimed to you. (38)
First, teaching concerning Israels history (13-25). In Pisidian Antioch,
Paul and Barnabas again started their ministry by going to the synagogue.
This time, they were invited to speak. Beginning with Israels slavery in
Egypt, Paul recounted up to the present how God had chosen Israel and
promised to send the Messiah through her. He wanted to establish that
Jesus was the one chosen by God to save the world from sin.
Second, teaching concerning the death and resurrection of Christ (26-
41). As Paul began focusing on Jesus, he emphasized two things: his death
and resurrection. Although Jesus healing and teaching are important,
it is his death and resurrection which constitute the heart of the gospel
message (32), for it is by this that forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to
everyone who believes (38,39). Paul also did not try to prove these things
using cleverly devised human arguments. Instead, he appealed only to
the authority of Scripture, the same authority by which you and I believe.
Lord, thank you for sending Jesus, for his death and resurrection, through which
we have forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
ONE WORD: Believe in Jesus; receive forgiveness
38
3
BLESSING AND CONFLICT AT ANTIOCH
Acts 13:42-52
When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord;
and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. (48)
First, the Jews reject the gospel (42-47). Pauls sermon (16-41) had made
a big impression on the people in the synagogue in Antioch, so much so,
that they asked him to come back the following week. In fact, nearly the
whole city gathered the next Sabbath to listen to him. Because of this, the
Jews were filled with jealousy, and they began to slander Paul and contra-
dict his message. Despite this rejection, Paul saw it from Gods point of
view and understood from Scripture what the Lord was doing through
this. Keeping a biblical perspective is vital to doing the work of God.
Second, the Gentiles accept the gospel (48-52). What Paul rightly
understood from Scripture was that the rejection of the gospel by the
Jews meant that it would go to the Gentiles. In fact, that message had
never been intended to be exclusively for the Jews. This is evidenced by
the statement that they had been appointed for eternal life (48). God had
elected people from among the Gentiles to be saved just as he had among
the Jews. We too are included among those whom God has appointed
to eternal life.
Lord, thank you for appointing us to eternal life according to the kind intention
of your will.
ONE WORD: God is sovereign in salvation
7/8/9 39
 Monday, August 4 Tuesday, August
IN ICONIUM AND LYSTRA
Acts 14:1-18
We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things
to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.
(15b)
First, in Iconium (1-7). Having left Pisidian Antioch, Paul and Barn-
abas went on to Iconium about 80 miles south east of there. As was his
custom, he entered the synagogue of the Jews, and his preaching was so
effective that many people believed. God even confirmed their message
through the miracles they performed. Yet despite all this, the people of
the city were still divided. And to make matters worse, the Jews stirred
up the Gentiles against them, forcing them to move on.
Second, in Lystra (8-18). The problems that the apostles faced in Lystra
were different than in Iconium. In Iconium the problem was disbelief.
In Lystra, it was idolatry. The miracle that Paul performed there should
have helped the people to believe his message. Instead, they thought that
the gods had come down in their midst. Rather than bask in this glory,
in great anguish, Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel, telling them
to turn from their idolatry to the one, true, living God. Until a person
repents and turns to the Lord, his life will be spent on worthless things
that cannot save.
Lord, help us to turn from whatever worthless things are hindering our relation-
ship with you.
ONE WORD: Turn to the living God
40
5
PAUL STRENGTHENS THE CHURCHES
Acts 14:19-28
Then they returnedstrengthening the disciples and encouraging them to
remain true to the faith. We must go through many hardships to enter the
kingdom of God, they said. (21-22)
First, Pauls hardship in Lystra (19-20). While Paul and Barnabas were
in Lystra, preaching the gospel to the idolatrous people there, some of
the Jews came over from Antioch and Iconium, places where they had
previously encountered Jewish resistance. These Jews managed to turn
the hearts of the crowd against Paul, and then they dragged him out of
the city and stoned him. Miraculously he did not die. Perhaps just as
miraculous, he went back into the city after this. He refused to leave until
he had completed his work there.
Second, Paul encourages the churches (21-28). After leaving Lystra,
they went on to Derbe. Then they retraced their steps and revisited the
churches they had planted in Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch. They
encouraged all of the believers to remain faithful, despite the persecution
they faced. We must all be reminded from time to time that the path to
the kingdom of God is not a broad and easy way. It is filled with many
kinds of trouble and affliction. We should not be surprised at this (1Pe
4:12), but continue in the faith to the end.
Lord, help us to remain faithful to you no matter what happens. May your king-
dom come.
ONE WORD: The kingdom of God at any cost
7/8/9 41
 Wednesday, August
THE JERUSALEM COUNCIL
Acts 15:1-21
No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just
as they are. (11)
First, the conflict over circumcision (1-5). While Paul and Barnabas
were back in Antioch, having returned from their missionary journey, a
conflict arose in the church over circumcision. There were some people
who were saying that it was necessary for salvation. To a modern Gentile
reader this issue may be hard to understand; but to the Jews, it was very
important. Thus, the most important church council in history was held
to decide the matter.
Second, the Jerusalem council (6-21). The apostles and elders looked
into the issue and debated it for a long time. But it was the words of
Peter, Paul, Barnabas and James that were most important. Peter declared
that salvation is only by Gods gracenot Gods grace plus circumcision
(10-11). Paul and Barnabas related the work God had done through the
Gentiles (12). And James laid out practical guidelines for the Gentile
believers so that they would not offend their Jewish counterparts (19-21).
It was a great moment of triumph for the church. We ought to strive for
this kind of unity as well, holding on to the grace of Jesus and living out
our faith practically and sensibly.
Lord, thank you for saving us by your grace. Help us now to live out our faith
according to your word.
ONE WORD: Saved by grace, not grace plus...
42
6 Thursday, August 7
BACK TO ANTIOCH
Acts 15:22-41
The men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the
church together and delivered the letter. The people read it and were glad for its
encouraging message. (30-31)
First, the Jerusalem letter is delivered (1-35). The Jerusalem council
put together a letter outlining four basic things that the Gentile believ-
ers should avoid. It was practical advice for holy living, and it would
help ensure that the Gentiles did not do anything to offend their Jewish
brethren. Paul and Barnabas delivered it to the church at Antioch, and
the people were joyfully encouraged by it, indicating that they agreed
with it. It was important for this matter to be resolved first in Antioch,
since it was the first Gentile church. It would set a strong precedent for
other Gentile churches.
Second, Paul and Barnabas part ways (36-41). After spending a while
in Antioch, Paul wanted to go back to visit some of the places where
they had been previously. Barnabas wanted to take John Mark, who had
first accompanied them right after they were sent out. However, Paul
disagreed with this, since Mark had abandoned them. He believed that
Mark was not reliable and could not be trusted to stay with them. In the
end, since they could not come to an agreement, they parted ways.
Lord, help us to receive your word joyfully. And in differences of opinion, give
us grace.
ONE WORD: An encouraging message.
7/8/9 43
 Friday, August
THE MACEDONIAN CALL
Acts 16:1-15
During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging
him, Come over to Macedonia and help us. (9)
First, Timothy joins Paul and Silas (1-5). Paul arrived back in Lystra
and Derbe where he had been previously. Lystra was the place where the
people had tried to worship him as a god, and then later stoned him (14:12-
13,19). This time it was much different. He found a disciple there, Timothy,
whom he decided to take with him and would eventually become like a
son to him (1Ti 1:2). Most likely, Timothy had become a believer through
Pauls original missionary journey. He was a tangible fruit of the apostles
efforts there.
Second, the Macedonian call (6-15). As Paul and his companions con-
tinued on their way, they had hoped to go into Asia to spread the gospel
to places they had not been previously. After all, that seemed to be what
God would have wanted. However, the passage says that the Holy Spirit
did not allow them to speak the word there. But then right after this Paul
received a vision from God of a man from Macedonia pleading for help.
God had closed one door and opened another. Paul listened to God and
abandoned his own plan. God providentially led them to Philippi, to
Lydia, their first convert there.
Lord, give us ears to hear you and a willing heart to obey you. Lead us where
you will.
ONE WORD: Listen to God; follow his leading
44
8 Saturday, August 9
GODS WORK IN PHILIPPI
Acts 16:16-40
They replied, Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be savedyou and your
household. (31)
First, Paul and Silas are imprisoned (16-24). After Lydias conversion,
Paul and his companions remained on in Philippi. But where God was
working, so was the devil. For each day, whenever Paul was on his way
to pray, he was followed by a demon-possessed slave girl who would
loudly shout out after them. Not wanting the gospel to be associated with
someone like that, Paul cast out the demon. This disturbed her masters,
who made a lot of money by her fortune-telling. So, they had Paul and
Silas arrested, beaten, and thrown in jail.
Second, the Philippian jailer is saved (25-40). What happened to Paul
and Silas was humiliating and painful. Yet, their spirits were not down,
and they continued to worship God even in jail. Whether God delivered
them or not was irrelevant; what mattered was that they remained faith-
ful. It was then that they experienced deliverance. It was then too that
the jailer experienced salvation. The jailer knew in that moment that his
own life was at risk if he lost any of the prisoners. Faced with his own
death, he suddenly realized he was about to enter eternity unprepared,
and fear of men who could take his life gave way to fear of God who
could take his soul.
Lord, help us to remain faithful regardless of our situation. Use us as witnesses
wherever we are.
ONE WORD: Remain faithful no matter what
7/8/9 45
 Sunday, August 10
IN THESSALONICA AND BEREA
Acts 17:1-15
He reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the
Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. This Jesus I am proclaiming to you
is the Christ, he said. (2b-3)
First, in Thessalonica (1-9). Pauls work here began as it did elsewhere:
in the synagogue. There he met with the Jews to persuade them that Jesus
was the Christ. The basis for his arguments was Scripture, and his main
point was that the Christ had to suffer, die, and rise againthe heart of
the gospel. This was contrary to Jewish concepts of the Messiah which
spoke only of an earthly king who would overthrow their enemies. That
is one of the reasons they could not believe that Jesus was the Christ. Not
surprisingly then Paul faced more opposition and was forced to move
on once again.
Second, in Berea (10-15). Because of the problems in Thessalonica,
Paul and Silas went on to Berea. Again, Paul went to the synagogue and
began reasoning with the Jews. The people there were quite different than
in Thessalonica, for rather than just hold on to their own beliefs about
Jesus they examined the Scriptures for themselves, and the result was
quite different, for many of them believed. Those who are noble-minded
when it comes to Gods Word are ripe for harvest.
Lord, let us use Scripture to preach the gospel, and may you open their hearts to
receive the message.
ONE WORD: Reason from the Scriptures
46
Monday, August 11
AT THE AREOPAGUS IN ATHENS
Acts 17:16-34
In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people
everywhere to repent. (30)
First, tell them who God is (16-29). In Athens Paul faced a vastly diverse
crowd than he had previously. There were Jews and Gentiles, and many
philosophers. And they had many different gods, so Pauls teaching about
Jesus sounded strange to them. So he started from a point they could
understand, using creation as proof of Gods existence. From there he
could elaborate more fully on truths found in Scripture, even though he
did not quote any Scripture directly. The unknown God they worshiped
is the ruler of everything, and he wants to be known and can be known.
Second, tell them what God says (30-34). The message that the Athe-
nians needed to hear is the same message people need today. God wants
people to repentto turn from their sins and turn to Jesus. To sophis-
ticated-thinking people this may sound simple, and yet they refuse to
do it. Furthermore, Gods grace will not last forever. He has fixed a day
in which he will judge the world. And God has given us proof of this by
Jesus resurrection. Some people will sneer at this. Others will hesitate.
But some will believe.
Lord, give us wisdom to preach the gospel to unbelieving people in our generation.
ONE WORD: Turn from sin and turn to God.
7/8/9 47
 Tuesday, August 12
PAUL MEETS AQUILA AND PRISCILLA
Acts 18:1-11
When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself
exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. (5)
First, Paul the tent-maker (1-4). In Corinth, Paul met Aquila and Pris-
cilla. They were tent-makers like himself, so he stayed with them while
he was in Corinth. During this time, he continued to go to the syna-
gogue every Sabbath to reason with both the Jews and the Greeks from
the Scriptures.
Second, Paul the teacher (5-11). After Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul
began devoting himself completely to the word of God. With them being
there he was able to focus more on teaching that Jesus was the Christ and
less on making tents. Yet, despite his whole-hearted devotion, the Jews
rejected the message and opposed him. So he turned to the Gentiles. All
his hard work may have seemed for nothing, and he could have felt like
a failure. But God showed him his power when Crispus, the synagogue
ruler, became a believer. As a result of this, many of the Corinthians
also became believers. Pauls devotion to Gods word had not been for
nothing. Furthermore, God himself assured him that he was with him
and would protect him.
Lord, may we too be devoted to your word and to telling others about Jesus. Help
us to trust in you even when it seems that we have failed.
ONE WORD: Devote yourself to Gods word
48
Wednesday, August 13
THE MINISTRY IN CORINTH AND EPHESUS
Acts 18:12-28
Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He
was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. (24)
First, Paul goes back to Antioch (12-23). Paul stayed in Corinth for
about a year and a half. Sometime during that stay the Jews that were
there rose up against him and brought him before the proconsul, accus-
ing him of leading the people astray. But the proconsul saw through this
and dismissed the case. Thus the vision Paul had seen was true (9-10).
After this, Paul left Corinth, sailed through Ephesusleaving behind
Pricilla and Aquilaand arrived back at Antioch, concluding his second
missionary journey.
Second, Apollos in Ephesus (24-28). In Ephesus Priscilla and Aquila
met Apollos, an eloquent man who was knowledgeable in the Scriptures.
But despite all that he already knew, he still had room to grow. Seeing his
great potential, Priscilla and Aquila instructed him in the way of God
more accurately, teaching him about Christian doctrine, not just the
ministry of repentance that came from John the Baptist. As a result, he
became a great help to other believers in Achaia, and a powerful witness
for Jesus Christ.
Lord, let us always grow in our knowledge of you, no matter how much we
already know.
ONE WORD: Grow in Gods word constantly
7/8/9 49
 Thursday, August 14
PAULS WORK IN EPHESUS
Acts 19:1-20
When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were
all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor. (17)
First, the baptism of the Holy Spirit (1-10). Apollos had gone to Corinth
to help the believers there. In the meantime, Paul had set out on his
third missionary journey and arrived at Ephesus. There he ministered
to some disciples who, similar to Apollos, had only received Johns bap-
tism. They did not yet have faith in Jesus, and thus had not yet received
the Holy Spirit. So Paul proclaimed the gospel to them by explaining
that Johns baptism was to prepare them for Jesusit was in him they
needed to believe.
Second, the power of the Holy Spirit (11-20). During Pauls stay in
Ephesus he discipled the men whom he had first met when he arrived
there. Additionally, God used Paul to perform many extraordinary mir-
acles. There were also charlatans who attempted to do the same. In the
case of the sons of Sceva, God used it not only to expose them as false
teachers, but also to instill fear and faith in God among the people. Many
of the magicians believed in Jesus and turned from their sin, even burn-
ing their expensive books.
Holy Spirit, work mightily among us through word, and may you be glorified in it.
ONE WORD: The presence and power of the Spirit
50
Friday, August 15
THE RIOT IN EPHESUS
Acts 19:21-41
There is danger not only that our trade will lose its good name, but also that the
temple of the great goddess Artemis will be discredited; and the goddess herself,
who is worshiped throughout the province of Asia and the world, will be robbed
of her divine majesty. (27)
First, the precursor to the riot (21-27). As the word of God was grow-
ing and prevailing (20), the people in Asia began turning away from
false gods to worship Jesus. Economically, this caused a problem for the
craftsmen who made their livelihood off of making idols of the goddess
Artemis. They were concerned that if this trend continued, their business
would fall into contempt. Regardless of the reasons they gave, it shows
that the devil will use anything to take peoples hearts away from God.
Second, the riot (28-42). The craftsmen became enraged when they
heard these things, and soon the entire city was in an uproar. Although
most of the people did not know what was going on, they still joined in
the throng anyway. Finally, cooler heads prevailed and the town clerk
was able to dismiss the crowd. Once again, Gods divine hand protected
Paul and his companions.
Lord, help us to stand for truth in an idolatrous world, and protect all those who
risk their lives for the gospel.
ONE WORD: Stand for the truth
7/8/9 51
INTRODUCTION TO AMOS
A
mos was one of the twelve Minor Prophets. This book was writ-
ten to Northern Israel during the reigns of Jeroboam ll of Israel
and Uzziah (Azariah) of Judah (760 to 750 BC.) Its purpose was
to pronounce judgment upon Israel for their complacency, idol worship
and oppression of the poor. Soon Israel would be conquered by Assyria
and the rich oppressors would themselves become slaves. Their destruc-
tion would come forty years later after Gods prophecy through Amos.
But God tried to reach out to the people of Israel one more time,
through a servant of God like Amos. Amos came from humble begin-
nings, for he tended sheep and fig trees. But he was called to speak Gods
word to the people who were living extravagant lives. He preached repen-
tance, calling for justice and righteousness. He is an inspiration for all
who came from humble beginnings and are called by God to speak truth
to their generation. His message rings true for every generation tempted
by materialism and idols.
The following is a short summary of the book of Amos.
i. Judgment on the Gentiles (1:1-2:3)
ii. Judgment on Israel (2:4-16)
iii. Israels guilt (3:1-6:14)
iv. Five visions: Locusts, Fire, Plumb Line, Basket of Ripe Fruit, The Lord by
the Altar (7:1-9:10)
v. Israels restoration and Gods hope (9:11-15)
52
Saturday, August 16
WORDS OF WARNING THROUGH A SHEPHERD
Amos 1:1-15
He said: The LORD roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem; the pastures
of the shepherds dry up, and the top of Carmel withers. (2)
First, Amos was called from humble beginnings (1-2). He was not
a professional but a shepherd and a fig grower. He was a lay minister,
called to give Gods word to the people. God uses people from ordinary
backgrounds and rural settings in his work. We may not feel that our
position is important, but it is of utmost importance to God if you are
where God wants you to be. God can work through you in many unique
and wonderful ways.
Second, God reveals his plans (8-10). Amos told of what God would do,
to whom and why. The first nations harassed Israel from ancient times.
The other nations were related to Israel. But they, too, were enemies. God
would call them to task for their inhumanity and lack of regard towards
those with whom they had a special relationship. God would judge their
crimes, roaring like a lion. Nobody can get away with wickedness. God
sees and cares. He looks from heaven on the weak and the downtrodden.
He is mighty to save and deliver.
Lord God Almighty, thank you for working through lay ministers. Help us to
deliver your word faithfully.
ONE WORD: The Lord roars because he cares
7/8/9 53
 Sunday, August 17
STAND BY FAITH; NOT BY SPECIAL PRIVILEGE
Amos 2:1-16
.Because they have rejected the law of the LORD and have not kept
his decrees, because they have been led astray by false gods, the gods their
ancestors followed. (4b)
First, God judged his people by a different standard (1-5). The Gentiles
were guilty of their unique set of sins (like atrocities in war) while the
sins of Gods people took a more religious tone. Judah was Gods chosen
people, but they did not live by the word of God. Their status did not free
them from the consequences of their sins. They too would stand before
the throne of judgment and be judged according to their relationship
with God, as brought to light through the word of God.
Second, Israel forgot the grace of God (6-16). Israel had received the
grace of God. They were also called to be Gods people and yet they walked
all over that grace. They ignored the prophets challenge to remember
Gods grace and return. They ignored their identity and turned their
back on God, preferring idols. When they became hardened, injustice
and blatant immorality filled their land.
Lord, I am called to be one of your people. Help me to remember your grace, to be
true to your word and to live as your child and servant.
ONE WORD: Walk humbly in Gods grace
54
Monday, August 18
GODS JUDGMENT COMPELS US TO SPEAK
Amos 3:1-15
The lion has roaredwho will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken who
can but prophesy? (8)
First, Gods people will have to answer (1-8). Soon the city would be
laid waste. It would happen for a reason. Whatever happens has a cause.
In this case, the Lord allowed judgment to happen because of unrepentant
sins. In light of this upcoming judgment, Amos was called to speak the
difficult message of repentance. He was compelled. For when the Lord
speaks, who can but prophesy?
Second, Samaria faced Gods judgment (9-15). God proclaimed judg-
ment on Samaria. Jeroboam I introduced idol worship that led the hearts
of the people astray. The lifestyles of the rich oppressed the poor. Unless
Samaria repented they would face judgment. The King of Assyria would
empty the palaces in Israel of their ill-gotten riches. The few people left
would be like a piece of an ear from a sheep taken from the mouth of
ravaging lion. We must take heed, repent of our sins and draw near to
the Lord right now, for today is the day of salvation. He is waiting to
restore our hearts.
Lord, help us to hear your clear warnings and draw near to you for salvation.
Help us to listen to your words of life and chart a new course.
ONE WORD: The Lord has spoken; we must speak
7/8/9 55
 Tuesday, August
BE PREPARED TO MEET YOUR GOD
Amos 4:1-13
prepare to meet your God (12b)
First, the women needed to open their ears to hear Gods word (1-5).
Bashan was the rich pasture land east of Jordan, where cattle were fed and
became strong. Its women were also sleek and well fed. In their selfishness
they pushed their husbands to oppress the helpless in order to support
lavish lifestyles, contributing to Israels corruption. Unless they repented
of their idolatry, they would be taken as captives in a most painful and
humiliating way.
Second, be prepared to meet God (6-13). The Lord is the Creator who
knows the thoughts of people. He allows things to happen with hopes
that they might repent and turn to him. God, in his mercy, halted the
destruction so that the people would return. But they still ignored him.
There was no recourse, so Amos declared: Prepare to meet your God.
They would have to meet the one they have rejected and meet him in
judgment. One day each person will meet God face to face to give account
for what they have done and failed to do. Are you prepared to meet your
God? There is only one way. It is through repentance unto faith!
Lord, help all people of our land not to contribute to its corruption, but to build
the nation up spiritually, showing the way to return to you.
ONE WORD: Prepare To Meet Your God
56
19 Wednesday, August 20
GODS REMEDY: SEEK THE LORD AND LIVE
Amos 5:1-13
Seek the LORD and live (6a)
First, God offers his people a remedy (1-6). Amos sang a lament as
though judgment had already taken place. On the Day of Judgment, they
could not hide from God. Carnage would be everywhere. Only one tenth
of the military would survive, but the destruction of the 90% meant
nothing to them; they remained unrepentant. The fact that God laments
shows that God cares. God wanted to draw them to himself. He provided
a remedy. In love, God implored them to seek him and live. Hope is found
in seeking God. In times of difficulty and struggles, we must seek God.
Second, God upholds holy things (7-13). The courts became lined with
greed and injustice. The rich milked the poor to build mansions, while
good people kept silent. The judges oppressed those who spoke up for
justice like Amos. God does not appreciate it when the pure and holy
things of God like seeking justice, caring for the poor, and upholding
the righteous are trampled on. May we uphold the things that God
holds dear.
Lord, we are always seeking solutions to our problems. We wonder why things
are the way they are. We want to accept your remedy, that is, to seek you and live.
ONE WORD: Seek Gods remedy
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 Thursday, August 21
JUSTICE IS NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD
Amos 5:14-27
But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream! (24)
First, God shows his people the way (14-17). God calls his people to seek
and love the good and to hate evil. An expression of this was to maintain
justice in the courts. In order to receive the Lords mercy, Israels leaders
would have to repent, confess and practically reform their ways. This
would not be easy, but it was Gods way to save them. God would surely
help them if they would only humble themselves. Our God is powerful,
faithful and dependable. He is more than able to save those who seek to
know Gods heart.
Second, God desires justice to cover the land (18-27). He desires justice
to roll on like a river, whose water permeates the entire land. God wants
justice to spread across our land through his people until everything is
drenched with justice. This means that outside of our worship services
and devotions, we must care about others plight by praying and working
for justice until it permeates our lives and communities. Justice is near
the heart of God. True justice is born of God and his word.
Lord, so often I am concerned only about my own devotion to you. Help me to
concern about things outside my personal space, like spreading justice.
ONE WORD: Seek the Lord and live
58
Friday, August 22
BEWARE OF COMPLACENCY AND PRIDE
Amos 6:1-14
Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount
Samaria, (1a)
First, their feasting and lounging had gone too far (1-7). People were
prosperous, complacent, self indulgent and unrepentant. No one was
concerned about the spiritual condition of their nation. In the end, they
would go into exile. The party will be over for all those who ignore God,
justice and live for self indulgence. We need to care about others who suf-
fer around us, who are in need and who cannot find justice or salvation.
Second, Israels pride would be her downfall (8-14). People were so far
from God that they didnt know how to respond when facing the Lords
judgment. If all but ten men in one family died, even the survivors would
not utter the name of God for fear of getting judged. They were on the
cusp of having their pride broken with the rod of Assyria, but these
people were so lost. They kept silent. Keeping silent is not an acceptable
response when standing on the cusp of destruction. We must return to
the Lord with humility and repentance.
Lord, our complacency and false pride have clouded the way back to you. Help us
to return to you. Show us the way.
ONE WORD: Open our eyes and respond to God
7/8/9 59
 Saturday, August 23
THREE VISIONS FROM THE LORD
Amos 7:1-9
And the LORD asked me, What do you see, Amos? A plumb line, I replied.
Then the Lord said, Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I
will spare them no longer. (8)
First, the two initial visions revealed complete destruction (1-6). When
locusts and fire ravaged the land, the destruction was so thorough that
nothing and no one could stand. All things of worth were laid bare. Amos
prayed that God would have mercy and in response, God relented. God
has opened our eyes to see his wrath and mercy. Believers today can be
proactive and pray.
Second, the third vision of the plumb line (7-9). A plumb line is a
builders tool. A wall constructed along a plumb line is straight and strong.
The spiritual plumb line is Gods word. Israel should have built the nation
according to Gods plumb line. But they chose differently. Their plumb
line was of this world. The nation was crooked and about to topple. Unless
they repented, they would be met with destruction. God forgives us of our
crookedness and recreates straight walls when we repent and believe.
Lord, I fail to measure up to the plumb line of your word. But I come to you to be
made straight.
ONE WORD: Crooked, but straightened by the Lord
60
Sunday, August 24
AMOS WOULD NOT, GO HOME.
Amos 7:10-17
Amos answered Amaziah, I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but
I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the LORD took
me from tending the flock and said to me, Go, prophesy to my people Israel.
Now then, hear the word of the LORD. (14-16a)
First, Amos was told to get out (10-13)! The priest of Bethel felt threat-
ened by Amos. He did not want to accept the word of God. Instead of
recognizing the truth and interpreting the times, he told Amos to Get
out! When people cant interpret the times, God will send missionaries
or people from outside their system. We need them. Who discovered
water? I am sure it was not a fish. We must be humble enough to always
consider the words spoken to us through the Lords sent ones.
Second, Amos held onto his personal calling (14-17). Amos was from
Judah, but God sent him to preach in Israel. This was his personal calling
in life. When he found this calling, threats could not silence him. We all
need our personal calling in life while at the same time, discerning our
season of life. God wants to do a marvelous work in and among us, but
we must follow Gods leading.
Lord, help me to discern your calling in this season of my life and to serve it well
with conviction.
ONE WORD: Listen to the one whom God sends
7/8/9 61
 Monday, August 25
SPIRITUAL CONSEQUENCES FOR SIN
Amos 8:1-14
The days are coming, declares the Sovereign LORD, when I will send a famine
through the landnot a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of
hearing the words of the LORD. (11)
First, the time was ripe for judgment (1-6). Ripe here means ripe for
the harvest of judgment. The people were so ripe they were rotten and
falling from the tree. They had become so materialistic that they were
impatient for worship to end so they could oppress the poor. Money had
become their god. Gods judgment would come in the form of an earth-
quake, confirmed by an eclipse.
Second, the judgment was more than physical (7-14). The people would
suffer on a spiritual level because of their sin. Their attempts at worship
will become times of weeping. They will be in perpetual mourning. They
will not be able to hear the word of the Lord and thus grow faith. They
will spiritually thirst and stagger in life. Those who should be lovely will
appear gaunt and on deaths door. Such is the fate of any who ignore Gods
grace and mercy. We need the Lord. He is our life and our all.
Lord, I repent of my sins that cut me off from you. Without you I would surely
stagger and fall. Help us to hold onto you and share your word with a people stag-
gering in a spiritual famine.
ONE WORD: The Lord saves from spiritual famine
62
Tuesday, August 26
GOD IS THE GOD OF JUSTICE AND HOPE
Amos 9:1-15
In that day I will restore Davids fallen shelterI will repair its broken walls
and restore its ruinsand will rebuild it as it used to be. (11)
First, the Lords eyes were focused on his people (1-10). The Lord stood
near announcing a judgment which no one could escape. Yet people,
instead of repenting, were deceived into thinking they could escape Gods
wrath. People cannot hide behind anything. It was time to willingly sur-
render their hearts to the Lord. But they did not. How true it is that
sometimes we can be our own worst enemies.
Second, Gods heart was still hoping (11-15). It was Gods plan all along
to call a people who were not his people and work through the rejected
people of this world (12). He wanted to call the Gentiles to be his people
and his servants. There is an image of peace, security, happiness, and con-
tentment here. This is our great hopethe glorious hope of the kingdom
of God! It has been Gods plan all along that the kingdom may come on
earth as it is in heaven. We can experience the kingdom of God even now.
Lord, thank you for the security of the Kingdom of God. You are my rock and my
salvation. I can have peace and joy living in you, for you are my God.
ONE WORD: God judges but he also hopes
7/8/9 63
INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF OBADIAH
O
badiah means servant of the Lord or worshipper of the Lord.
He was from Judah, and was called to tell of Gods judgment
against the nation of Edom. Two accepted dates for this prophecy
are between 853 BC and 941 BC when King Jehoram and Jerusalem were
attacked by the Philistine/Arab coalition (2 Chron 21:16) or 586 BC when
Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians (2 Kings 25:2; 2 Chron 25:36).
Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. Obadiah is written
the form of a poetic dirge. Because of their treachery and pride, Edom
stood condemned and would be destroyed. The prophecy shows that God
judges those who have harmed his people and responds towards anyone
who harms his children. It also tells of Gods desire for his kingdom to
spread throughout the land. God wants his people to experience deliver-
ance and the peace of the Kingdom of God. There are two mega themes
in the book: justice and pride.
The book can be divided into three parts:
i. An announcement that disaster was coming to Edom (1-9).
ii. The reasons for their destruction (10-14)
iii. Judgment will fall on all who harm the people of God, but there will be
deliverance for those who belong to God. (15-21)
64
Wednesday, August 27
DELIVERANCE ON MOUNT ZION
Obadiah 1:1-21
Deliverers will go up on Mount Zion to govern the mountains of Esau. And the
kingdom will be the Lords. (21)
First, Edoms pride deceived her to her reality (1-9). The Edomites
were confident that their capital was safe from invasion while their army
raided at will. They gloated over Jerusalems suffering, helping themselves
to spoils. They returned fugitives. All this occurred even though Israel
and Edom had common ancestors. They would be destroyed. When we
take refuge in our own strength, holding onto false pride, there will be
consequences.
Second, God would deliver and restore his people (17-21). When God
dwells in the midst of his people, they are a burning fire. The Edomites
would be stubble that fire consumes. Deliverers will govern the moun-
tains of Esau. In God, they would experience complete victory, taste
freedom, peace and justice. Anyone can dwell in this kingdom, even
Edomites who repented of their sins and put their faith and trust in God.
Yes, even those.
Lord, thank you for delivering me. I long to dwell in your presence in your king-
dom, face to face. May the kingdom of God grow in peoples hearts across our
nation.
ONE WORD: God will bring victory to his people
7/8/9 65
INTRODUCTION TO JONAH
J
onah is the fifth book of the Minor Prophets, written around 780 B.C.
It is an historical narrative containing spiritual truths and a record
of supernatural acts of God. Jonah lived before the Assyrian inva-
sion and destruction of Samaria. (2 Kings 14:25) Jonah preceded Amos
and ministered in the northern kingdom under Jeroboam ll. Nineveh,
where Jonah was called to minister to, was the capital of Assyria. Jonah
probably preached before the Assyrians rise to power. It was the main
city in a relatively weak kingdom,; within 50 years it would become the
capital of the huge, wicked and cruel Assyrian Empire. The city was a
grave threat to the security of Israel.
Jonah foresaw what was to come and his hesitation is understandable.
But God wanted to widen the prophets heart. Jonahs story is an illustra-
tion of Gods mercy and grace to the Ninevites and also to Jonah.
As you read Jonah, we will see Gods love and compassion, realizing
that no one is beyond redemption. The gospel is for any who will repent
and believe. May we grow in the wideness and the mercy of God and
deliver the message of salvation to a world lost in darkness.
The book can be divided as follows:
i. The reluctance and the flight of Jonah. (1:1-11)
ii. Jonahs discipline and transformation (1:12-2:10)
iii. The salvation of a city full of gentiles (3:1-10)
iv. Learning the wideness of Gods mercy. (4:1-11)
66
Thursday, August 28
JONAH FLED FROM GODS PERSONAL CALL
Jonah 1:1-16
The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai: Go to the great city of
Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.
(1-2)
First, Jonah was called to preach (1-3). God had a difficult mission for
Jonah: to be a foreign missionary to Nineveh. The city was a threat and
wicked. An Israelite had every reason to hate and fear the Ninevites. How
could Jonah preach the message of salvation these Gentile people? Jonah
was not strong enough to obey and ran from the Lord. Jonahs attitude is
representative of all who are reluctant to share Gods grace with others
who are their enemies, yet are called to love them.
Second, Gentiles trusted in the Lord (4-17). Jonah knew what God
required and he gave up, volunteering to be a living sacrifice. Jonah was
also fully aware of his own guilt and made no excuses. He confessed the
facts. God was leading Jonah to the perfect place where he could confess,
repent, discover Gods grace and embrace Gods mission. God was also
helping the sailors to have faith. The LORD knows the best way to reveal
himself.
Lord, so often I run from you and I disregard others. Help me to have big heart,
like yours and to embrace all people of all nations.
ONE WORD: You cant run from God
7/8/9 67
 Friday, August 29
THE LORD DELIVERS
Jonah 1:17-2:10
When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to
you, to your holy temple. (2:7)
First, God delivers us, many times at the last moment (17). Noah had
resigned himself to his fate, but God had other plans. He sent a huge fish
to save Jonahs life. God intervenes, humbles and savesmore often than
not, at the last moment.
Second, Jonah responded well to Gods training (2:1-10). Jonah did not
act as an ordinary person. He was not bitter. Jonahs mind was elevated
above his miserable situation. He turned heavenward, to God, in prayer
even from inside the belly of the fish. Jonah remembered the grace of God
and had a song in his heart. He thanked God and made vows, which is
making a commitment to God. In the process, he had an epiphany of
truth, discovering that salvation comes from the Lord. Jonah knew that
he was the most blessed. It was because he could experience the grace of
God. Whoever turns to the Lord in their need will see the glory of God
and be filled with songs of thanksgiving and praise.
Lord, help me to fix my eyes on you, even in the direst of circumstances. May I
experience and taste your grace declare your praises.
ONE WORD: The Lord delivers those who are his
68
Saturday, August 30
JONAH PREACHED AND THEY BELIEVED
Jonah 3:1-10
The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the
greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. (5)
First, Jonah was called to preach Gods message (1-4). Jonah was to
preach what God told him to preach: a message of judgment to a powerful
city. We are also called to preach Gods message to the popular culture
without compromising it. Such a message is unpopular. But we should
never give into the social consensus. God wants all people to come to
repentance and salvation. His message is the only message that can purge
idols, bring forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
Second, a miracle happened (5-10). When Jonah obeyed, a miracle
happened. The city repented. God honored Jonahs preaching and their
response. We are tempted to think that nobody would listen to Gods
message. But if we simply proclaim what we know about God, we will be
surprised at how many people will listen. Expect great things from God
when we preach his word.
Lord, your love and mercy compel me to obey your word. Help me to speak your
word to whomever you want me share it with. I know you will bless it.
ONE WORD: Hold out the word of God. God will work through his word.
7/8/9 69
 Sunday, August 31 September
LEARN THE WIDENESS OF GODS MERCY Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

Jonah 4:1-11 1 2 3 4 5 6
And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are
more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right
hand from their left, and also many animals? (11)
First, Jonah prayed even when angry (1-3). Jonahs ministry was fruit-
ful, but he was bitter at the outcome. Anger makes it hard to pray. But God
drew him to pray. Through his prayer we discover that God is gracious
and compassionate towards all kinds of people. God reveals himself to 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
those who call upon him, even to those stewing in anger.
Second, the lesson of the vine (4-11). God taught Jonah compassion
through a vine, a worm and hot wind. Jonah was thankful for personal
grace given to him. But he needed to mature to begin hoping that other
people may be blessed. God provided a worm, which killed the vine in
the heat. Jonah was uncomfortable, inconvenienced and grew faint. He
snapped. The people of Nineveh were withering in sin, but God saved 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
them. Gods compassion extends to Jonah and to the Ninevites. Jonah
needed to learn this to be a servant of God.
Lord, I am so happy about my own salvation, but what about others? Grant me a
wide heart to care about others and lead them to faith in you.
ONE WORD: Gods mercy embraces all people

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30

70 7/8/9 71
 Monday, September 1 Tuesday, September
GOD PRESERVED DAVIDS LINE
2 Chronicles 22:1-12
Because Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram and wife of the priest Jehoiada,
was Ahaziahs sister, she hid the child from Athaliah so that she could not kill
him. (11b)
First, Ahaziah was caught in Gods judgment (1-9). Jehorams only sur-
viving son, Ahaziah, became king. His mother, Athaliah, was a daughter
of Ahab and worshipped Baal. She encouraged him to act wickedly. When
Ahaziah went to visit Joram, King of Israel, God brought about his down-
fall through Jehu, who was carrying out Gods judgment on Ahabs family.
Second, courageous Jehosheba (10-11). Athaliah saw a power vacuum.
She began to butcher her own family members, even her own grandchil-
dren, in order to reign. The line of David was perilously close to being
snuffed out. But God is faithful. Ahaziahs sister Jehosheba, the wife of
priest Jehoiada, hid her youngest nephew Joash in the temple. Her courage
spared Joashs life, and Gods faithfulness to David was upheld.
Father, you are a just God, and you are faithful to your promises. Help me trust
you who never fails.
ONE WORD: God saved a remnant
72
2
JEHOIADA RESTORES THE COVENANT
2 Chronicles 23:1-21
Jehoiada then made a covenant that he, the people and the king would be the
LORDs people. (16)
First, Jehoiada works to restore God as King (1-11). Joash was rescued
as a baby. Jehoiada knew Gods people needed to turn back to God, not
just get a new king on the throne. He patiently worked to build relation-
ships among Gods people. After Joash became seven, Jehoiada showed
his strength. Making a covenant with the Levites and soldiers who were
still loyal to the LORD, they anointed Joash as King. They were restoring
God as King in the nation.
Second, renewal of the covenant (12-16). After anointing Joash and
dealing with Athaliah, Jehoiada then made a covenant that he, the people
and the king would be the LORDs people. In sincerity to their covenant,
they destroyed the temple of Baal. Orderly worship of God in the LORDs
temple was restored. Their identity as the Lords people was restored.
Father, thank you for the privilege to be your covenant people. Please reign in my
heart, my family and my nation as King, as we your people.
ONE WORD: Be the LORDs people
7/8/9 73
 Wednesday, September
JEHOIADAS GOOD INFLUENCE ON JOASH
2 Chronicles 24:1-16
Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years of Jehoiada the
priest. (2)
First, Jehoiada mentors young Joash (1-14). Chapter 24 documents the
reign of Joash: when he did what was right (1-16) and when he became
wicked (17-27). The difference was the influence of his mentor, Jehoiada.
As long as Jehoiada lived, Joash did what was right. He became zealous
for the temple of the Lord. Under Athaliah, the people abandoned the
Lord and his temple for Baal. The temple of the LORD represented the
covenant of law with all the people. Joash helped the people give their
hearts and money back to the Lord through rebuilding the temple using
their offerings.
Second, Jehoiada honored by God and people (15-16). Jehoiada was
not the king, but a priest. However, God honored him, giving him long
life (130 years) and burial with the kings in the City of David. He was
credited with all the good of Joashs reign.
Father, thank you for the selfless love of godly mentors for your glory and the good
of your people. Help me love you and mentor others for your glory.
ONE WORD: God honors godly mentors
74
3 Thursday, September 4
WHY DO YOU DISOBEY THE LORDS COMMAND?
2 Chronicles 24:17-27
This is what God says: Why do you disobey the LORDs commands? (20b)
First, Joash abandons the temple (17-20). After Jehoiadas death Judahs
officials paid homage to Joash. They influenced him to turn back to idola-
try, abandoning the temple he had rebuilt. Gods anger against them
was the expression of his love. He sent prophets to turn them back, but
they would not listen. The Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of
Jehoiada to give them Gods word of rebuke. Their disobedience separated
them from God. God sought to restore them.
Second, the result of forgetting Gods grace (21-27). However, Gods
people didnt remember Gods grace. Even King Joash forgot all of Gods
kindness to him through Jehoiada, and had Zechariah killed at the temple
of the Lord. God raised the Arameans, who with a small army thoroughly
defeated Judah. Joash was assassinated in his bed and was not honored
in his burial as other kings had been.
Father, thank you for your patient love. Help me to obey you, not the influence
of evil men.
ONE WORD: Obey the Lords command
7/8/9 75
 Friday, September
GOD HAS THE POWER TO HELP
2 Chronicles 25:1-13
Even if you go and fight courageously in battle, God will overthrow you before
the enemy, for God has the power to help or to overthrow. (8)
First, Amaziah encouraged to seek God only (1-10). Amaziahs good
point was revealed in dealing with his fathers assassins: He listened to the
word of the Lord and did not murder their children. Amaziah mustered
all Judah for battle. He also hired mercenaries from Israel. There is no
indication he sought Gods will in this. But God had hope for him, and
sent his servant with a word of God. God wanted him to discern between
godly and ungodly, and to seek Gods help for himself and his people.
Although it cost a lot and brought bitter conflict with Israel, Amaziah
listened to the man of God by faith.
Second, mixed results (11-13). Amaziahs victory over the Edomites was
decisive and legendary (2Ki 14:7). But it was also unnecessarily blood-
thirsty (12). The Israelites also raided Judah, killing thousands (13).
Father, you have power to help and to overthrow. Help me to listen to you and
trust your word today.
ONE WORD: Listen to the word of the LORD
76
5 Saturday, September 6
AMAZIAH DID NOT LISTEN TO THE LORD
2 Chronicles 25:14-28
Amaziah, however, would not listen, for God so worked that he might deliver
them into the hands of Jehoash, because they sought the gods of Edom. (20)
First, God has determined to destroy you (14-16). After his victory,
Amaziah became proud and foolish. He burned sacrifices to the idols of
Seir. God sent a man of God to reach out to him with logic: Why wor-
ship gods you defeated? But this time Amaziah would not listen to the
man of God. Amaziah threatened to kill him. Since he ignored Gods
counsel in pride, God determined to destroy him. They say, Pride comes
before the fall.
Second, the result of pride: Amaziahs tragic end (17-28). Without
Gods wisdom, Amaziah became very foolish, and started a war with
Israel. The king of Israel even counseled him against this, pointing out
Amaziahs pride, but he would not listen. Judah was thoroughly defeated,
Jerusalem left defenseless, and the Lords temple emptied. Amaziah was
hunted down and killed by his own people.
Father, forgive my pride in the time of victory. Help me be humble to listen to
your word.
ONE WORD: God opposes the proud
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 Sunday, September
AS LONG AS HE SOUGHT THE LORD...
2 Chronicles 26:1-23
He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of
God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success. (5)
First, Zechariah mentors 16 year old Uzziah (1-15). His instruction
focused on the fear of the Lord. Uzziah learned to live before God, to
seek Gods help, and know Gods heart. Uzziahs reign is characterized
by victory (6-8), rebuilding infrastructure (9-10), and military upgrades
(11-15). As a result, his people and nation flourished. God helps those
who fear him. Uzziahs success, fame and power were the blessing of God.
Second, Uzziah became proud and unfaithful (16-23). Abraham Lin-
coln is quoted as saying: If you want to test a mans character, give him
power. God said only priests can burn incense, but Uzziah did not lis-
ten. At the rebuke of Azariah and 80 courageous priests he should have
repented, humbling himself. Instead he raged at the priests. God struck
him with leprosy, humbling him until he died.
Father, thank you for your great help on those who fear you. Please help me seek
you humbly.
ONE WORD: God helps those who seek him
78
7 Monday, September 8
JOTHAM WALKED STEADFASTLY BEFORE THE LORD
2 Chronicles 27:1-9
Jotham grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his
God. (6)
First, Jotham grew powerful (1-9). Jotham became king and ruled
while his father was dying from leprosy. He built infrastructure and
defense (enemies were looming 2Ki 15:37). God gave him victory over
the Ammonites, who paid him tribute. Jotham grew powerful. David
said, Power belongs to God (Ps 62:11).
Second, the secret of Jothams success. Three kings before him started
well, but then became proud and ended terribly (Joash, Amaziah, Uzziah).
How did Jotham break the chain? First, he had a sense of history. He did
what was right, while avoiding the mistakes of Uzziah. Second, the LORD
was his God. Success and power become addictions that drive people.
But Jothams personal relationship with God prevented him from seeing
God as a means to an end. He walked with God.
Father, thank you for the privilege of knowing you as my God. Help me walk
steadfastly before you today.
ONE WORD: The LORD my God
7/8/9 79
 Tuesday, September
GODS MERCY ON JUDAH THROUGH OBED
2 Chronicles 28:1-15
But a prophet of the LORD named Obed was there, and he went out to meet the
army when it returned to Samaria (9a)
First, Ahaz rejects God (1-8). Ahaz went the opposite direction from
Jotham: he worshiped idols, even burning his children in the fire. All
Judah followed him. So the LORD his God delivered him into the hands
of Aram and Israel. The excellent armies of his forefathers could not save
him from the hand of Gods judgment. 120,000 soldiers were killed and
over 200,000 people enslaved.
Second, Gods mercy revealed through Obed (9-15). At that moment
Obed went out to talk to the Israelites. Their victory over their brothers
was not theirs to boast, but rather Gods judgment. They too were sin-
ners, under Gods wrath. Some Israelite leaders were convinced, and they
cared for the slaves of Judah, returning them to health, clothing them,
and escorting them back to Jericho. Gods mercy on idolatrous Judah is
so beautiful to us.
Father, thank you for your amazing mercy, revealed again and again. Help me
humbly repent before you.
ONE WORD: Gods kindness leads to repentance
80
9 Wednesday, September 10
THE LORD HUMBLED JUDAH
2 Chronicles 28:16-27
The LORD had humbled Judah because of Ahaz king of Israel, for he had
promoted wickedness in Judah and had been most unfaithful to the LORD. (19)
First, the LORD humbled Judah (16-20). In addition to Aram and Israel,
Edom and the Philistines began to attack Judah as well, capturing many
towns. All this happened because God was humbling Judah, so that she
might repent and turn back to him. He is able to save and deliver, as he
had proven many times in the past. Gods discipline is for our good, and
we need to respond to it.
Second, Ahaz became even more unfaithful (21-27). But Ahaz did not
humble himself before God. He sought human help from Assyria, but
that brought trouble and did not help him with the real issues. Instead,
he became more unfaithful to the LORD. His crooked mind led him to
worship the vile idols of Assyria. He desecrated the temple and broadly
expanded idol worship in Judah.
Father, you humble me to discipline me because you love me. Help me humble
myself before you.
ONE WORD: God gives grace to the humble
7/8/9 81
 Thursday, September 11
CONSECRATE YOURSELVES AND THE TEMPLE
2 Chronicles 29:1-19
...and said: Listen to me, Levites! Consecrate yourselves now and consecrate the
temple of the LORD, the God of your ancestors. Remove all defilement from the
sanctuary. (5)
First, Hezekiah mobilizes the Levites to action (1-11). The first thing
Hezekiah did was to open and repair the temple doors which Ahaz had
shut. He gathered the Levites and priests, who alone could minister, to
consecrate themselves and the temple. Hezekiahs speech (5-11) confessed
his people were unfaithful, and reminded the Levites that they were
chosen to stand and serve before the Lord. Renewing the covenant with
God was the kings top priority.
Second, the temple was consecrated again (12-19). The Levites had to
consecrate themselves. Under Ahaz they had all been kicked out of the
temple. They struggled to survive. It was not easy to renew their identity
and calling, pulling away from civil life to serve the Lords purpose. But
they did so, completely consecrating the temple in just 16 days.
Father, please help me consecrate myself for your work today.
ONE WORD: Consecrate yourself
82
Friday, September 12
BOW IN WORSHIP
2 Chronicles 29:20-36
The whole assembly bowed in worship, while the musicians played and the
trumpets sounded... (28a)
First, blood sacrifice atones for sin (20-26). Hezekiah wasted no time,
gathering the priests, Levites, and city officials early in the morning
to present sin offerings and burnt offerings. Sin cannot be cleansed by
human means. It requires Gods forgiveness. The blood of the sacrifice
atoned for their sin. They had to offer many animals. But Jesus Christ,
our High Priest, sacrificed himself once for all, that all our sins may be
forgiven and atoned for.
Second, the whole assembly bowed in worship (27-36). During the
burnt offering, the Levites led the people in worship. With thankful and
contrite hearts, they bowed down before the Lord. Their relationship with
God was reconciled. God is our true object of worship, as our Creator,
our Redeemer, and source of blessing. Hezekiah then invited anyone who
wanted to give offerings. The restoration of the temple service brought
great joy to the people.
Father, thank you for Jesus blood, shed to forgive my sins. Help me respond in
worship today.
ONE WORD: Bow down and worship
7/8/9 83
 Saturday, September 13
CELEBRATE THE PASSOVER TO THE LORD
2 Chronicles 30:1-27
Hezekiah sent word to all Israel and Judah and also wrote letters to Ephraim
and Manasseh, inviting them to come to the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem
to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, the God of Israel. (1)
First, all invited to remember the Passover (1-14). Hezekiah invited all
the people to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. To give time for priests
to consecrate themselves and for people to gather, it was postponed one
month. In his letter, Hezekiah is urging his people to return to the Lord.
Practical repentance would be to come up to the Passover in obedience
to Gods word. Many mocked, but some came, clearing out altars in
Jerusalem.
Second, not a legal duty but a joyful celebration (15-27). The Passover
was a time to remember Gods saving grace. It was not celebrated legal-
istically. People repented and worshiped the LORD with great joy. They
became of one mind and heart. Jesus instituted the Lords Supper so we
may remember and celebrate his saving grace.
Father, thank you for your saving grace in Jesus.
ONE WORD: Remember Gods grace
84
Sunday, September 14
HEZEKIAH RESTORES LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD
2 Chronicles 31:1-21
Hezekiah assigned the priests and Levites to divisionseach of them according
to their duties as priests or Levites... (2a)
First, practical repentance (1). After remembering Gods saving grace
through the Passover, the people voluntarily removed all the idols. It was
a practical expression of repentance.
Second, dedicated servants for temple service (2-21). The priests and
Levites had no support to serve the temple ministry. This was not Gods
way. Hezekiah understood Gods mind and heart in establishing the
dedicated Levitical priesthood. Regular service in the temple required
dedicated servants. Hezekiah organized them, and set the example by
contributing from his own possessions. When ordered, the people gave
the tithe of support. All were generously provided for, and the Levitical
priesthood was restored to their temple service fully. Hezekiah prospered
because he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly.
Father, thank you for your servants. Please raise up leaders who seek you and
work wholeheartedly.
ONE WORD: Seek the Lord
7/8/9 85
 Monday, September 15
WITH US IS THE LORD OUR GOD TO HELP US
2 Chronicles 32:1-23
With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us
and to fight our battles. And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah
the king of Judah said. (8)
First, faith is the victory (1-8). During Hezekiahs reign Assyria dis-
mantled Northern Israel. Sennacherib invaded Judah, right up to the
walls of Jerusalem. Their plight was desperate. Hezekiah did not sur-
render, but encouraged his people to see God was with them. Assyrias
power was nothing compared to the LORD. This strengthened them to
resist the evil king by faith in Almighty God. Armies and weapons were
not the deciding factor. Faith was.
Second, pride precedes the fall (9-23). Sennacheribs continuous victo-
ries over nations and their gods made him proud and overconfident. He
made the fatal mistake of underestimating and mocking God. Hezekiah
and Isaiah prayed to the Lord, and God sent one angel to destroy Assyrias
army. Sennacherib was killed by his own sons.
Father, you are Almighty. In impossible situations, help me not give up but trust
you and live by faith.
ONE WORD: Be strong and courageous
86
Tuesday, September 16
WHAT MATTERS TO GOD
2 Chronicles 32:24-33
Then Hezekiah repented of the pride of his heart, as did the people of Jerusalem;
therefore the LORDs wrath did not come on them during the days of Hezekiah.
(26)
First, Hezekiahs humiliation and healing (24-30). After all his victories,
Hezekiah faced severe illness, and almost died. He prayed to God and
was healed. But this time his heart was proud, and he did not respond
to the kindness shown him. All his past victories and works could not
shield him from Gods wrath. God does not show favoritism. But when
he repented of the pride of his heart, as did his people, God withheld his
wrath. Furthermore, God continued to bless him, giving him very great
riches and helping him succeed in everything.
Second, God tests Hezekiahs heart (31-33). When envoys from Babylon
came, God used it as a test to reveal Hezekiahs heart. Hezekiah showed
the envoys everything in his kingdom. Eventually, Babylon would take
them all captive.
Father, you oppose the proud but give grace to the humble. Forgive my proud heart.
ONE WORD: God gives grace to the humble
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 Wednesday, September 17
THEN MANASSEH KNEW THE LORD IS GOD
2 Chronicles 33:1-25
Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God. (13b)
First, Manasseh did evil in the eyes of the LORD (1-9). Manasseh fol-
lowed the practices of the idol-worshipping Canaanites. He rebuilt the
high places, and even sacrificed his children. He defiled the temple. He
led his people to do more evil than those the LORD had destroyed before
them. This aroused the anger of the LORD.
Second, Manasseh humbled by the LORD (10-25). The LORD did not
ignore his peoples sin. Nor did he destroy Manasseh, but disciplined him
through the armies of Assyria, putting a hook in his nose. In distress
Manasseh sought the favor of the LORD his God. He humbled himself
greatly. God was moved by his humble prayer, and restored him. This
grace of God opened Manassehs eyes to know that the LORD is God.
This truth transformed his life. Manasseh removed the idols, restored the
altar and worshiped at the temple. But sin took root. Manassehs own son
Amon did evil, and was killed.
Father, you are so merciful and patient with sinners. Help me repent quickly, and
know you as LORD.
ONE WORD: Gods kindness leads us to repentance
88
Thursday, September 18
YOUNG JOSIAH SOUGHT THE GOD OF DAVID
2 Chronicles 34:1-33
In the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God
of his father David... (3a)
First, Josiah purified the land and temple (1-13). Josiah, as a young boy,
found a hero in David. Perhaps he loved the story of David and Goliath.
As a teenager of 16, he began to seek the God of David. To do so, he put
God first in his nation, systematically and completely uprooting idols
and investing money, time and manpower toward rebuilding the temple.
May God inspire many young people through godly heroes to seek God.
Second, Josiah renewed the covenant (14-33). When Josiah sought God,
God revealed himself through the Bible. Josiah tore his robes and wept,
seeing how they had failed to keep the covenant. Through a prophet Josiah
received assurance of Gods favor on him personally, and confirmation
of Gods punishment on the nation. Josiah served his people as a Bible
teacher to renew the covenant. He was a shepherd king, just like David
his father.
Father, thank you that when we seek you we find you. Please raise up young peo-
ple like Josiah.
ONE WORD: Find God in his Word
7/8/9 89
 Friday, September 19
JOSIAH CELEBRATES THE PASSOVER
2 Chronicles 35:1-27
...none of the other kings of Israel had ever celebrated such a Passover as did
Josiah (18b)
First, remembering Gods Saving Grace (1-19). Josiah celebrated the
Passover as God commanded (4,6), helping the Levites prepare properly.
He generously provided thousands of animals, as did his officials. Staying
up late into the night, the priests and Levites served the people, prepar-
ing the lambs and burnt offerings. Musicians played and all the people
joyfully and thankfully participated. The Passover was to remember and
acknowledge how God had saved them from slavery in Egypt. God wants
us to always remember his saving grace.
Second, the death of Josiah (20-27). After setting the temple in order,
Josiah rode out to war and was killed by archers. His people mourned
him, and even Jeremiah composed a lament. According to 34:28, this
early death was Gods way of sparing him from the disasters God was
going to bring.
Father, thank you for your saving grace. Help me to remember and acknowledge
it always.
ONE WORD: Remember Gods Saving Grace
90
Saturday, September 20
THE RAPID DECLINE OF JUDAH
2 Chronicles 36:1-14
Furthermore, all the leaders of the priests and the people became more and more
unfaithful... (14a)
First, Jehoahaz, Jehoiakim, and Jehoiachin (1-10). Pharaoh Necho took
Johoahaz prisoner. Egypt imposed heavy levy and appointed Eliakim
as king, changing his name to Jehoiakim. He did evil in the eyes of the
LORD. Nebuchadnezzar took him captive, so Jehoiachin became king.
He also did evil, and was also taken to Babylon. These kings reigned less
than 12 years, ruled by Egypt then Babylon.
Second, Zedekiah, the last king of Judah (11-14). Zedekiah was appoint-
ed by Nebuchadnezzar. He did not humbly listen to Gods word through
Jeremiah. He rebelled against Babylon. He became stiff-necked and hard-
ened his heart and would not turn to the LORD, the God of Israel. All
the leaders, priests and people as well became more and more unfaithful.
As God had said in 34:25, because they had forsaken the LORD, Gods
wrath was coming.
Father, you are patient and kind. Please forgive my rebellious heart and soften
my stiff neck.
ONE WORD: Be faithful, not stiff-necked
7/8/9 91
 Sunday, September 21
JUDAHS DESTRUCTION AND CAPTIVITY
2 Chronicles 36:15-23
The LORD, the God of their ancestors, sent word to them through his messengers
again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place.
(15)
First, the result of mocking Gods messengers (15-20). Despite their
wickedness, God in his pity sent his word through messengers again
and again. But they mocked his messengers and despised his words
and scoffed at his prophets. Gods wrath was terrible. The Babylonians
destroyed the city, butchered the people young and old, and burned every-
thing of value. They set fire to Gods temple, and took the remnant captive
to Babylon. God will not be mocked.
Second, Gods promise fulfilled (21-23). God had promised through
Jeremiah the prophet that after seventy years of captivity he would rebuild
Jerusalem and his temple. In the days of Cyrus king of Persia his word
was fulfilled. God is faithful.
Father, thank you for your pity and faithfulness. Help me to listen to your word
humbly and sincerely.
ONE WORD: Gods word never fails to come true
92
INTRODUCTION TO EZRA
W
hen the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem in 586 BC, they
deported the best people to Babylon. The Babylonian captivity
was Gods judgement on his idolatrous people. Gods purpose
was to lead them to repentance. The Babylonian captivity, according to
Jeremiahs prophecy, was to last 70 years. Ezra opens with the decree of
Cyrus the Persian who conquered Babylon in 539 BC. God moved his
heart to allow the first group of exiles led by Zerubbabel to return to
Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. After much struggle and opposition,
God blessed the exiles to finish the temple in 516 BC which was seventy
years after it had been destroyed.
The book of Ezra covers a period of about eighty years. Ezra lived in
Babylon and was well known to King Artaxerxes. He led a second group
of exiles back to Jerusalem in 458 BC. By this time, the exiles had forgot-
ten Gods word and lived in a spiritual wilderness. Ezras mission was to
be a Bible teacher and shepherd for the exiles. God used him to help the
Jews to repent and obey Gods word.
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 Monday, September 22
GREAT IS GODS FAITHFULNESS
Ezra 1:1-2:70
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord
spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a
proclamation throughout his realm and also to put it in writing: (1)
First, God moves peoples hearts (1:1-11). After ascending to power,
King Cyrus proclaimed that the Jewish exiles could return to Jerusalem
to rebuild the temple of God. King Cyrus ordered the treasurer to return
the temple articles confiscated by Nebuchadnezzar. He encouraged the
Jews to give freewill offerings for the rebuilding effort. Cyrus personal
motives are not clear. Yet God used this worldly ruler to rebuild the
temple. Thus, God fulfilled his promise to his people spoken through Jer-
emiah (Jer 25:11, 32:37-41; Isa 44:28). God uses his sovereignty to restore
his people to worship him.
Second, the exiles obedience (2:1-70). God prompts the hearts of peo-
ple but people must also respond in faith and obedience. 42,360 exiles
courageously went back to a land many had never seen to rebuild Gods
temple and resettle the land. Some were excluded from the priesthood
when their lineage could not be proved. The exiles tried to obey Gods
word from the start (Nu 16:40).
Lord, thank you for keeping your promises and for leading people, including me,
to worship you.
ONE WORD: God faithfully restores his people
94
Tuesday, September 23
FAITH THAT OVERCOMES FEAR
Ezra 3:1-13
Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its
foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the LORD, both the morning
and evening sacrifices. (3)
First, in accordance with what is written (1-6). The Israelites assembled
as one in Jerusalem on the seventh month. God had prescribed several
holidays, including the Day of Atonement, to be observed in the seventh
month (Lev 23:23-44). Joshua, Zerubbabel and others rebuilt the altar.
The Festival of Tabernacles was celebrated. Sacrifices were made. All was
done according to the word of God. New life in a new land was difficult.
But spiritual survival was an even greater priority. God gave them faith
and courage to build the altar and worship God according to his word.
Second, laying the foundation (7-13). Zerubbabel and Joshua led the
rebuilding of the temple. Offerings were used to pay workers. Like the first
temple, building materials were imported from Sidon and Tyre (1 Ki 5).
Levites were appointed to supervise the building of the temple. When the
foundation was laid, many wept, remembering the former temple while
others shouted for joy. Everyone praised God. The temple foundation was
a visible reminder of Gods love toward his people.
Lord, please give me faith in you and courage to overcome fear and carry out
your work.
ONE WORD: Faith in God overcomes fear
7/8/9 95
 Wednesday, September 24
OPPOSITION TO REBUILDING
Ezra 4:1-24
You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build
it for the LORD, the God of Israel... (3b)
First, we alone will build it for the LORD (1-5; 24). The enemies were
people brought into the land by various Assyrian kings (2, 10) after their
conquest of northern Israel (2 Ki 17:24). They offered to help build the
temple and claimed to worship God. In fact, they worshiped many idols
(2 Ki 17:29) and did not obey Gods word. Their offer was an attempt to
subvert the construction and lead the people away from God. However,
God gave spiritual discernment to the leaders. The exiles alone would
build the temple for the LORD. These enemies continued to plant fear
and frustrate plans until the temple efforts stopped for 15 years (24).
Second, enemies hinder wall rebuilding (6-23). Verses 6-23 record two
official complaints (6, 7-16) lodged against the Jews made many years
later. This look into the future reveals that enemies hindered efforts for
over 100 years. The second letter was about rebuilding Jerusalem and her
walls. It resulted in an official decree to stop the rebuilding. God blesses
his people with his work but he never promises that it gets easier. Gods
people must be prayerful and patient.
Lord, thank you for your work. Please give us spiritual discernment, patience
and faithfulness.
ONE WORD: Dont compromise; wait and pray
96
Thursday, September 25
GOD WAS WATCHING OVER THEM
Ezra 5:1-17
But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were
not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received. (5)
First, Gods word inspires the builders (1-5). Enemies had hindered the
work of rebuilding and discouraged the workers. The Jews initial zeal for
the temple faded into selfishness and the mundane. God raised prophets
to proclaim his word to the people. Haggai rebuked the people for neglect-
ing the temple reconstruction (Hag 1:9-11). Zechariah prophesied future
hope (Zech 1:16-17, 3, 4:6-10). Joshua and Zerubbabel responded to Gods
word by restarting the work on the temple. When they obeyed Gods word,
God also watched over them. Mans hindrance cannot stop Gods work.
Second, a letter to King Darius (6-17). Tattenai and some other offi-
cials wrote a letter to King Darius. The letter contained the testimony of
the Jewish elders. Solomons temple had been a symbol of Gods grace.
But when the Israelites angered God, he allowed Nebuchadnezzar to
destroy the temple and deport the people. Later Cyrus issued a decree
to rebuild the temple and the temple articles were returned. The Jewish
elders believed Gods grace and sovereignty over all history.
Lord, thank you for watching over and protecting us when we participate in your
work.
ONE WORD: Gods eye is watching over us
7/8/9 97
 Friday, September 26
THE COMPLETION OF THE TEMPLE
Ezra 6:1-22
So the elders of the Jews continued to build and prosper under the preaching of
Haggai the prophet and Zechariah, a descendent of Iddo... (14a)
First, do not interfere with the work (1-12). In response to Tattenais
letter (5:17), King Darius searched the royal archives. He found Cyrus
decree regarding the temple. Darius ordered his officials not to interfere
with the rebuilding. Furthermore, in keeping with the original decree,
expenses were to be paid out of the royal treasury. The king asked for
prayer (10) and stipulated penalties for defying his edict. God can use
even pagan kings to pave the way for his work.
Second, according to the commands of God (13-22). King Darius offi-
cially sanctioned the rebuilding of the temple but success did not depend
on him. Success depended on Gods blessing and obedience to his word.
Haggai and Zechariah continued to preach to the people. The temple was
finished according to the command of God (14). Priests were installed
according to the Book of Moses (18). The temple dedication was full of
joy. Eleven days later, Passover was celebrated according to Gods word.
They joyfully praised God for finishing the temple and restoring worship.
Lord, few things are in my control but thank you for your word. Help me to repent,
obey it and entrust everything else to you.
ONE WORD: According to Gods word
98
Saturday, September 27
GODS HAND WAS ON EZRA
Ezra 7:1-28
The king had granted him everything he asked, for the hand of the LORD his
God was on him. (6b)
First, Ezra came up from Babylon (1-10). About sixty years after the
temple was completed, God sent a second group of Israelites, led by Ezra,
to Jerusalem. Ezra was a priest, a descendent of Aaron (5). He was also
a Bible teacher, well versed in Gods law. The LORDs hand was on Ezra
and blessed his relationship with King Artaxerxes. The king granted
everything Ezra asked. This was not because Ezra was politically savvy.
Rather it was the fruit of Ezras Bible study, obedience and Bible teaching.
When Ezra devoted himself to the LORD, the LORD blessed his leader-
ship and influence.
Second, God moves hearts (11-28). Artaxerxes gave permission to any
Israelite to travel with Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. The king also gave
a personal offering (15). Supplies for temple worship were to be paid out
of the royal and provincial treasuries. Everything was to be carried out
with diligence. The king did not want to incur Gods wrath. Ezra was
respected as a man of Gods wisdom and word (25). Ezra praised God
for moving the kings heart. He took courage and gathered leaders for
the four-month journey.
Lord, thank you for honoring your servants when they honor you. Help me to
study, obey and teach your word.
ONE WORD: Gods hand moves hearts
7/8/9 99
 Sunday, September 28
HUMBLE OURSELVES BEFORE OUR GOD
Ezra 8:1-36
So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.
(23)
First, those who went with Ezra (1-20). Verses 2-14 record the families
that accompanied Ezra. Many appear to be descended from those who
went in the first group under Zerubbabel (2:4-25), a testament to the influ-
ence of the first generation. However, while camping, Ezra discovered
that no Levites were among them. He sent some leaders to ask for Levite
volunteers. Gods gracious hand moved the hearts of some Levites to also
return. They renounced settled lives and opportunity to become temple
servants who could not own land (Num. 18:20). But these Levites valued
the opportunity to serve God ahead of any worldly gain.
Second, God answers prayer (21-36). Ezras party carried many valu-
ables and offerings for temple worship. The journey was long and dan-
gerous. But Ezra did not want to ask the king for protection. He wanted
to demonstrate that God cares for his servants but is against those who
forsake him. Ezra proclaimed a fast. The people humbled themselves in
prayer. God protected them throughout the journey and they arrived
safely in Jerusalem.
Lord, you alone are worthy of our full devotion. Thank you for being gracious to
those who humble themselves before you.
ONE WORD: God answers our humble prayer
100
Monday, September 29
THE UNFAITHFULNESS OF THE EXILES
Ezra 9:1-15
Shall we then break your commands again and intermarry with the peoples
who commit such detestable practices?... (14a)
First, appalling news (1-5). Ezras happiness in arriving in Jerusalem
quickly turned to anger and dismay. Ezra was told that many Jews, includ-
ing priests, Levites and leaders, had compromised and married people
of detestable practices. God had prohibited such marriages because the
Canaanites would lead the people into idolatry (Dt. 7:1-4). This was not
simply a racial matter. The Jews had broken faith with God. Their future
as Gods remnant was in great danger. Ezra was so appalled that he tore
his clothes and sat in self-abasement.
Second, Ezras prayer (6-15). Ezra prayed and repented on behalf of
his people. He included himself as a sinner. God had originally sent his
people into exile because of their sins. Then God gave them a second
chance. He gave them a new life to rebuild the temple. But the people
were throwing their second chance away by disobeying Gods clear com-
mands. Ezra recognized Gods grace, that they were not being punished
to the extent that they deserved. He also recognized that if they did not
repent, God would destroy them.
Lord, you are righteous and holy. Forgive our unfaithfulness and idolatry.
Cleanse us from sin and help us to obey your word.
ONE WORD: God hates compromise
7/8/9 101
 Tuesday, September 30
MAKE A COVENANT BEFORE OUR GOD
Ezra 10:1-44
Now honor the LORD, the God of your ancestors, and do his will. Separate
yourselves from the peoples around you and from your foreign wives. (11)
First, there is still hope for Israel (1-11). Ezra was not the only one
who wept because of his peoples unfaithfulness. A large crowd gathered
around him and also wept. Shekaniah believed there was still hope in
God. He suggested sending away all the foreign women and their children.
Ezra agreed and put the leaders under oath to carry this out. A national
assembly was called. Anyone who failed to appear would be expelled. The
people all gathered and were greatly distressed because of the occasion
and the rain. Ezra called on the people to honor the LORD and separate
themselves from their foreign wives. Their destructive sin required radical
repentance and commitment to God.
Second, we must do as you say (12-44). Most of the assembly agreed
and was ready to repent. A few opposed. Within several months, they
finished dealing with this. The priests descendants who had married
foreign women were listed. The sin was widespread and because they
were the spiritual leaders, their influence was particularly bad.
Lord, please raise spiritual leaders who are fully devoted to you and obey you.
Give us a repentant and humble heart.
ONE WORD: Repent for there is still hope in God

102 7/8/9 103

 UBF Chapter Directors List
48. Milwaukee, WI Paul Dang lcedar303@hotmail.com 631-246-5238
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS OFFICE pauldang@sbcglobal.net 412-534-0785 78. Tempe, AZ David Kim
Abraham Kim (General Director) abrahamkimubf@gmail.com 49. Minneapolis, MN Stephen Yang ddkimtempe@hotmail.com 480-839-5534
stephenpilgrims@gmail.com 612-331-1580 79. Texas A & M, TX Peter Lee
John Jun (Honorary General Director) johncjunubf@gmail.com
lee9623@gmail.com 864-276-2363
50. Montclair, NJ Samuel Hong
Sarah Barry (Honorary General Director) sarahbarryubf@hotmail.com samsphong@hotmail.com 973-652-5772 80. Toledo, OH (Pastoral Team)
51. New Albany, IN Joseph Wert Russell Kille
NORTH AMERICA henrypark120@gmail.com 614-266-0785 jwert@ius.edu 812-945-5263 rkille@gmail.com 419-344-3636
24. Connecticut, CT Jeremiah Lee 52. New Jersey, NJ John Park Greg Lewis
1. USA john12.park@gmail.com 609-933-1299 gregthesignman@gmail.com 419-508-6631
kyu-hwan.lee@uconn.edu 860-486-3509
1. Lincoln Park, IL Mark Vucekovich
53. New York, NY David Baik Mark OHashi
25. Conerstone, MD Luke Lim
(North America Representative) mgohashi@hotmail.com 419-535-6378
26. Denver, CO Jeremiah Jung davebaik@gmail.com 917-482-9525
lincolnparkubf@gmail.com 773- 343-8860 81. Trenton, NJ Moses Kim
jeremiahjung@gmail.com 303-557-8593 54. NIU, IL Kevin Jesmer
2. Akron, OH Isaac Kim trentonubf@gmail.com 609- 771-1199
27. DuPage, IL Jeremy Hajek kevinjesmer@yahoo.com 815-758-7269
ibkim4@hotmail.com 330-535-3873 82. Triton, IL Teddy Hembekides
jeremy@dupage-ubf.org 55. North Hills, CA Gideon Klijian
3. Anchorage, AK David Kim aakvergib77@yahoo.com 818-832-1922 (Middle East Representative)
ksiubf@korea.com 907-952-4929 28. Eau Claire, WI Abraham Nahm
56. Northern Kentucky Univ., KY Andrew Martin tritonubf@gmail.com 708-456-0022
NAHMAY@uwec.edu 715-831-8394
4. Andover, MA John Koo martin_rebekah_andrew@hotmail.com 513-213-5703 83. U of I, IL Samuel A. Lee
johnkoostar@yahoo.com 978-475-8321 29. E. Lansing, MI Peter Yoon
57. Omaha, NE Harvey Siy salinchrist@gmail.com 773-551-8764
yoon.ruth@gmail.com 517-333-1739
5. Arlington, TX Joshua Choo hpsiy@cox.net 402-201-5943 84. Washington D.C. Jacob Lee
joshuaychoo@yahoo.com 817-276-0349 30. El Camino, CA John Baik
58. Owens, OH Paul Choi (Asia Representative)
johnbaik121@gmail.com 310-532-7231
6. Asbury, KY Ezra Cho paul_choi@owens.edu 678-376-5132 jacobleeubf@gmail.com 301-935-2640
31. Erie, PA Abraham Kim
ezra59@naver.com 859-312-4937 85. Wayne, NJ Samuel Lim
d8kim3@hotmail.com 814-873-4941 59. Penn State, PA Joseph Schafer
7. Atlanta, GA Wesley Yun josephlschafer@gmail.com 814-867-6621 samuellimuk@gmail.com 201-282-9802
32. George Mason Univ.,VA David Chung
wesleyyun@gmail.com 404-543-8028
60. Philadelphia, PA Moses Noah 86. West L.A., CA Paul Chin
dchung3115@yahoo.com 703-425-1545
8. Auburn, AL James Oh mosesnoh@coe.drexel.edu 215-654-5150 paullukechin@aol.com 818-395-2559
33. Glendale, CA Abraham Kim
james15260@yahoo.com 334-704-4058 87. West Loop, IL Rhoel Lomahan
61. Pittsburgh, PA Caleb Park
9. Austin, TX Joshua Jeon 34. Grand Rapids, MI Ezra Lee rlomahan@ameritech.net
godwithezra@hotmail.com 616-530-7422 62. Plano, TX John Yoon
joshjeon@gmail.com 773-401-3534 88. Wilmington, NC Isaac Baek
35. Houston, TX Samuel Yoo 63. Pompano, FL Gideon Sherwin
10. Baltimore I, MD Paul Sambuco baek_inseok@hotmail.com 910-292-6121
36. Hyde Park, IL Joshua Hong gideonsherwin@yahoo.com 954-670-3337
psambuco@hotmail.com 410-769-9440 89. Wright, IL Paul Ghilardi
sunggyung@gmail.com 773-844-7228 64. Portland, OR Joseph Ahn
11. Baltimore II, MD Peter Hong pghilardi@msogl.com 773-282-8287
37. IIT, IL Bob Henkins joseahn@gmail.com
baltoubf@hotmail.com 410-536-0965
65. Raleigh, NC Andrew Dellinger
2. Canada
rjhenkins@yahoo.com 312-791-0153
12. Berkeley, CA Mark Moran 1. St. George, Ontario Henry Kim
38. Indianapolis, IN David Kim andrewdellinger@raleighubf.org 919-302-0970
markdmoran@gmail.com 510-708-6288 (Canada Director)
iupuiubfdavidkim@gmail.com 630-740-1332 66. Richmond, VA Mark Yoo
13. Boston II, MA William Jung henrykim@math.toronto.edu 416-534-6537
39. Iowa, IA Peter Kim dyoo@vsu.edu 804-758-4762
billandpauline3@yahoo.com 267-265-9071 2. Algonquin, Ontario Isaac Jeong
peter0118@hotmail.com 773-398-2972 67. Sacramento, CA Andrew Kim
14. Boston IV, MA Mark Yoon isaacjeong@gmail.com 613-513-8916
40. Kansas City, MO Noah Rhee ubfandrew@yahoo.com 916-363-9178
markyoon@gmail.com 617-640-1211 3. Calgary, Alberta Matthew Jun
rheen@umkc.edu 816-361-8772 68. San Diego, CA Daniel Park
15. Buffalo, NY David Lee matthewjun@hotmail.com 403-289-5586
41. Knoxville, TN Philip Won upnspark@yahoo.com 858-693-7849
davidleeko@gmail.com 716-462-1118 4. Edmonton, Alberta David Chang
42. LeHigh, PA Wesley Jun 69. Seattle, WA Abraham Song
16. Cerritos, CA Abraham Jeong david.hojunchang@yahoo.ca 780-289-6102
wesleyyoungjun@gmail.com 610-419-1910 abrahamsong01@hotmail.com
jwj8586@gmail.com 562-445-5177 5. Evanstone, Alberta Abraham Lee
43. Lexington, KY John Doty 70. Shippensburg, PA Daniel Lee
17. Chapel Hill, NC Stephen Seo abjlee@gmail.com 403-401-5957
johngracedoty@yahoo.com 859-269-0575 dylee@ship.edu 717-532-9552
sseoubf@gmail.com 919-745-0187 6. Guelph, Ontario James Oh
44. Louisville, KY Joshua H. Choo 71. Shreveport, LA Paul Kim
18. Charlottesville, VA Christopher Kelly Ohjames120@gmail.com 519-763-6689
joshuaychoo@yahoo.com 281-513-6459 72. Springfield, IL John Lee
richmondubf@gmail.com 434-973-5394 7. Hamilton, Ontario Paul Chang
45. Los Angeles, CA John Kwon aguynamedjohn@gmail.com 773-216-2510
19. Chicago, IL Ron Ward paul.chang@sympatico.ca 905-528-3200
johnkwonubf@gmail.com 562-400-7011 73. Springfield, MA* Gideon Shin
pastorronw@gmail.com 773-965-0219 Isaac H. Kim 8. Humber, Ontario Paulus Cha
74. St. Louis, MO Paul Choi
20. Cincinnati, OH David Miller (Africa Representative) pauluscha@gmail.com 416-746-7337
choi8149@yahoo.com 314-898-3512
shdavidmiller@hotmail.com hdk121@gmail.com 562-714-0417 9. London, Ontario Isaac Sung
75. St. Paul, MN Charles Kim
21. Cleveland, OH Whitfi eld Cha 46. Macomb, IL James Rabchuk isaacnsung@yahoo.ca 519-438-3534
charleskim70@gmail.com 612-716-0155
wfcha86@hotmail.com 440-720-0509 (CIS Representative) 10. Montreal, Quebec Andrew Christopher
76. Stanford Univ., CA . Andrew Hwang
22. Colorado Springs, CO Stephen Kim Ja-rabchuk@wiu.edu 309-836-9216 montreallukehong@gmail.com 514-954-0484
andrewkhwang@gmail.com 650-855-9417
stephenjskim@gmail.com 719-322-7787 47. Manhattan, NY. Caleb Kang 11. North York, Ontario Paul Lee
77. Stony Brook, NY Wesley Yoon
23. Columbus, OH Henry Park calebyk@gmail.com 212-863-9166 paulihlee@gmail.com 416-502-2738
104 105
12. Ottawa, Ontario Samuel G. Lee 6. Dominican Republic Jorge Antonio hhugo_01@hotmail.com 58-414-906-8930 1. Korea Headquarters David Kim
m.samglee@gmail.com 613-228-7773 msjorgeantonio@gmail.com 80-9949-8669 (Korea Director)
AFRICA
13. Rideau, Ontario Samuel Yoon 7. El Salvador Isidro Puente davidkimyh@hanmail.net 010-2273-0954
samuelsyoon@gmail.com 613-744-5178 isidroperezsalvador@hotmail.com 22-35-09-11 24. Sudan Andrew Kim (Africa Coordinator) Moses Ok-Gi Lee
14. Ryerson, Ontario Charles Kim 8. Guatemala I Josu Ham andrewkim63@hotmail.com 249-912-151-964 (General Secretary)
charleskim120@gmail.com 416-944-8338 guatemalaubf@hanmail.net 502-4216-3476 25. South Sudan (Juba) Padiet Deng 2774984@hanmail.net 010-6277-4984
15. Toronto, Ontario Joshua Lee 9. Guatemala II Abraham Gilberto Salazar padietubfk ht@hotmail.com 211-911-305-418 2. Anam I Moses Hak-mo Kim
tjoshualee@rogers.com 416-653-7381 gilsal121@hotmail.net 502-5732-7963 26. Malakal Oyor Moses (Director of Education Department)
16. U de M, Quebec Peter Jang 10. Honduras David M. Kang m_oyor@hotmail.com 211-927-706-338 kimhmoses@paran.com 82-10-3032-4291
pjang@hotmail.com 514-735-5768 jessicakang99@hanmail.net 9948-8733 27. Republic of South Africa 3. Anam II Luke Lee
17. Vancouver, B. C. Daniel Kwon 11. Nicaragua Juan Kim 1. Cape Town Andries Coetsee cklee@korea.ac.kr 82-10-5661-6797
hodongk@hotmail.com 604-438-7025 juankim33@naver.com 505 8407 4237 andries.coetsee@gmail.com 27-82-452-3407 4. Anam (Seocho) Jung-ho Moon
18. Vancouver II, B. C. John Kim 12. Panama Juan Baek 2. Johannesburg Andrew Lee 82-10-9927-2256
19. Victoria, B. C. Joshua Park juanshbaek@hotmail.com 507-6673-3091 joburgubf@yahoo.com 27-11-482-9543 5. Ansan Abraham G. Suh
timpark99@hanmail.net 250-686-9957 13. Puerto Rico Luis Gonzalo 3. Pretoria James Lee (Director of Administration & Publicity Department)
20. Waterloo, Ontario Andy Stumpf gonzalo.ubf@gmail.com 78-7763-7244 jamesjylee@gmail.com 27-12-362-2150 absuh@hanmail.net 82-10-2641-4996
andy.stumpf@gmail.com 519-883-1212 4. WITS Jacob Kim 6. Ansung Abraham Im
LATIN AMERICA : SOUTH kimjacob@inbox.com 27-79-911-9022
21. York, Ontario John Lee 82-10-7352-3022
mjohnlee@gmail.com 416-888-7735 14. Argentina 28. Botswana Timothy Chung 7. Anyang In-Hee Won
1. La Plata Isaac Cho chtubf@gmail.com 267-7271-6573 (Director of Financial Department)
LATIN AMERICA: CENTURAL argentinaisaac@gmail.com 155-110-4343 29. Cameroun Emmanuel Tonkeu wih2030@hanmail.net 82-10-2443-6414
3. Mexico 2. Buenos Aires Marcos Kim cbcubf@yahoo.fr 8. Asan, Hoseo Univ. Abraham D. Seo
1. Guadalajara Timoteo Rhee junghokim10@gmail.com 54-11-4372-6994 30. Egypt Ayman Ghawy hanhwaco@empal.com 82-10-7659-6610
(Latin America Coordinator) 15. Bolivia aymanubf@yahoo.com 9. Baebong Gospel Joo
timorhee@gmail.com 52-333-823-6537 1. Santa Cruz I Esteban Cho 31. Libya N. Y. loveyourgod@hotmail.com 82-11-353-4854
2. Acatlan Rodolfo Blas estebanchoubf@gmail.com 7604-2095 32. Ghana Truman Lee 10. Bookak Paulus Shin
Colecdiseno@mexis.com 52-555-560-5474 2. Santa Cruz II Mark Shin trumanlee05@hotmail.com 233 20 9994967 shinpaulus@empal.com 82-10-3174-2069
3. IPN Bernabe Choi marcos91@naver.com 7614-1849 33. Kenya Mark Yoon 11. Busan Jae-Geun Park
choibarnabas@hanmail.net 52-553-540-8783 16. Brasil ubfk enya@gmail.com 254-735-820039 parkjg2041@hanmail.net 82-10-7390-2168
4. Iztacala Isaac Park 1. So Paulo Elias Park 34. Namibia Abraham Victor 12. Busan National Univ. of Edu Daniel Cho
skparkmx@hotmail.com 0445551067513 eliasubf@gmail.com 55-11-99907-1914 kauvicto@yahoo.com 264-61-255772 daniel1200@hanmail.net 82-10-4536-4509
5. Mexico City Abraham Hwang 2. Campinas Paulo Kim 35. Nigeria 13. Cheongju Francis Lee
abrahamhwangubf@hotmail.com 044-551-968-1768 unimyung@yahoo.com 55-19-9713-9115 1. Lagos I Peter Park ypbums@nate.com 82-10-9948-9396
6. Cuautitlan Daniel Baek 3. Mackenzie No Jeong peterparknigeria@gmail.com 234-80-7283 9016 14. Choonchun Paul Kim
bohyun.baek@lge.com 52-55-1474-6821 noaj@terra.com.br 55-11-6695-2955 2. Lagos II Abraham Owoeye paultjk@hanmail.net 82-10-5363-4621
7. Monterrey I Bernabe Kim 17. Chile Josue Chun tundecct@yahoo.com 234-80-70680 2299 15. Chunahn John Oh
bernabemx@gmail.com 52-818-376-8141 chunjoshuachile@hotmail.com 56-9984-38638 3. Luth James Odejimi john444@hanmail.net 82-10-3421-2605
8. Monterrey II Josue Lee 18. Colombia Andres Park jamesode73@gmail.com 234-80 5520 2233 16. Chungcheong James Lee
josuelee@hotmail.com 511-5615399 0gilpark@hanmail.net 313-444-9335 4. Yaba Tech. Andrew Yoon lsclovejesus@daum.net 82-10-3119-9560
9. Morelia Serafi n Loza Ruiz 19. Ecuador Andr Kim andrewyoon1994@hotmail.com 234-703-099-4384 17. Daegu Paul Kim
lozav@hotmail.com 52-443-316-2536 akimbs@yahoo.com 593-4-228-9593 36. Tanzania Timothy Jung sampaul@hanmail.net 82-10-3539-4526
10. Queretaro Caleb Lee 20. Paraguay Andres Heo bellajwk@hanmail.net 255-754-573733 18. Daehakro Joseph Lee
calebleemx@hotmail.com 442 688 0821 andresheo@gmail.com 595-21-576-957 37. Uganda jsleeubf@gmail.com 82-10-9001-7362
11. Saltillo Pedro Gomez Vera 21. Peru Efrain Atanacio 1. Makerere Luke Lim 19. Daejeon Caleb Ok-dong Choi
ubfsalt@hotmail.com 52-8444-14-7169 efrainperuubf@hotmail.com lukelimm@yahoo.com 256-414-530312 shema1@paran.com 82-10-7918-8291
12. Santo Tomas Isaias Roh 22. Uruguay Jose Park 2. Kyambogo Samuel Yoo 20. Dongkyo Elijah Lee
only-jesus@hotmail.com 52-55-4202-7338 uruguayubf@gmail.com 598-9621-0051 yoouga@gmail.com 256-772-461101 youngkee@chollian.net 82-10-7707-7218
13. Tepic Josue Bae 23. Venezuela 38. Zambia Nehemiah Kim 21. Gachon Abraham Park
sang2041@gmail.com 52-311-133-0138 1. Caracas Juan Seo zamcindy@hanmail.net 260-967-923738 kuabrm@hanmail.net 82-10-5894-2772
14. Zapopan Gideon Kim juanseo1@gmail.com 58-414-239-2804 39. Zimbabwe James Lee 22. Gongreung David Nam
gedeonkim@gmail.com 010-33-3562-0001 2. Valles del Tuy Socrates Yupanqui jamesjlee95@gmail.com 263-11-206-329 namdavid@hanmail.net 82-10-2469-6760
4. Belize Moses Chang dorisyupanqui@gmail.com 58-414-276-0927 23. Gyeongju I Moses Lee
ASIA kjmoses@hotmail.com 82-19-325-8797
moseschangubf@gmail.com 501-628-2521 3. Merida Jaime Delgado
5. Costa Rica Pablo Park jaidelga200x@yahoo.es 58-412-736-5685 40. Korea 24. Gyeongju II David Lee
bible-pray@hanmail.net 506-273-4300 4. Maracaibo Hugo Hurtado

106 107
 naemap@naver.com 82-10-7797-9882 51. Kwangju II John Park kscho@ajou.ac.kr 82-10-3370-5401 lukesjung@hanmail.net 880-17-3045-0749
25. Hanggong Heon-Seok Jun felijah@hanmail.net 82-10-2057-8243 78. Ulsan Joseph Ro 43. Brunei Andrew Jung
yesoljeon@hanmail.net 82-10-3909-0954 52. Kwangju III David Park josephro@hanmail.net 82-10-2485-9747 msu2004@hotmail.com 673-2-2790130
26. Hankang Deug-Hyun Kang skpark@chosun.ac.kr 82-10-9212-3043 79. Wonchun Seung-Won Kim 44. Cambodia Doyeol Lee
kdhsonju@hanmail.net 82-10-9006-1646 53. Kwangju IV Luke Song (Director of Publishing Department) faith1204@gmail.com
27. Hanla Samuel Park chsong@chosun.ac.kr 82-11-9607-3083 yerangs@hanmail.net 82-10-6296-3997 45. China
ptimothy@hanmail.net 82-10-5722-5931 54. Kwangwoon Taylor Roh 80. Wonju Stephen Kim 46. India
28. Hannam Stephen Ahn rohvictory@gmail.com 82-10-8591-0545 kybjx@naver.com 82-10-2416-1334 1. JNU Jimmy Lee
aaaos@hanmail.net 82-10-4712-9853 55. Kyonggi No-Won Song 81. Yeongeon Paul Ham jhleeindia@gmail.com 91-95828-02733
29. Hansung Timothy Koh songnowon@hanmail.net 82-10-4524-0667 82. Yeongnam Paul Dongwon Moon 2. Bangalore John Bunyan Yeon
hs7000cmps@hanmail.net 82-10-3379-6178 56. Kyungheemun Do-Young Choi dpaul2000@hanmail.net 82-10-5121-8180 john_bunyan@hotmail.com 91-988-6494-064
30. Hanyang I Moses Yang-zune Kim ubfchoi@ubf.org 82-10-3174-0744 83. Yonhee I David Kim 3. DU(North) Samuel Palaka
(Director of Relief Work Department) 57. Kyungsung I James Suh davidkimyh@hanmail.net 82-10-2273-0954 shep_samuel@redi mail.com 91-9818-49-6818
yzkim82@gmail.com 82-10-3730-4486 suhjames@daum.net 82-10-8739-6188 84. Yonhee II Joseph Cho 4. Agra Anill Das
31. Hanyang (Sungshin) Noah Shin 58. Kyungsung II Peter Choi chohyoseop@hanmail.net 82-10-2221-0854 anildas001@yahoo.co.in 91-94521-73884
shinnoah@hanmail.net 82-16-293-3440 onesame@empal.com 82-10-9454-2645 85. Yonhee II(Hanggong) Soon-Sung Hong 5. Noida Th
umra
32. Hanyang II Joshua S. Lee 59. Kyungsung III Young-Jin Kwon 86. Yonhee III, Ewha Barnabas Kim khawingmi@redi mail.com 91-98993-71166
hyjoshua@empal.com 82-10-9158-8564 kwon0429@hanmail.net 82-10-6857-8599 wiroja@naver.com 82-10-3787-0954 6. Chennai Deborah Lee
33. Hanyang III Peter Jeong 60. Medical College of Ajou Univ. Paul H. Moon 87. Yonhee V Byounghee Han debolee@gmail.com 91-97911-95363
morgenland@hanmail.net 82-10-5215-5519 mhnaja@hanmail.net 82-11-746-2562 82-10-9019-2931 7. Cochi James Kang
34. Hwarang Philip Lee 61. Myongji Caleb Lee 88. Youljun James Kim kjd2041@hotmail.com 91-96326-00332
shepherdlee@naver.com 82-10-8485-9789 clkslee@hanmail.net 82-10-5764-9100 (Director of IT Department) 47. Indonesia
35. Incheon Elijah Kim 62. Namsan I Elisha Kim jameshep@hanmail.net 82-10-4234-4357 1. Depok Peter Lee
inhaubf@hotmail.com 82-10-2204-2668 ktg65@hanmail.net 82-10-6275-3913 89. Young Tiger Wesley Yoon kubfi ndonesia@yahoo.co.kr
36. Inje John Kim 63. Namsan II Yong-Seok Kim wesleyyoon@yahoo.co.kr 82-10-5555-9379 2. Cawang Jonathan Kim
johnmykkim@gmail.com 82-11-586-8392 kys-shep@hanmail.net 82-10-6730-0884 41. Japan yhkimubfui@hanmail.net
37. Jeju Mark Cho 64. Namsan III Peter Sang-bum Kim 1. Tokyo Daniel Jeong 3. Jakarta Peter Kim
chomark@hanmail.net 82-10-3034-9760 ksbubf@hanmail.net 82-10-5361-3913 (Asia Coordinator) petrusyk@hanmail.net
38. Jeongreung Young-Chan Oh 65. Nowon Hun-Il Jung jtdaniel21@hanmail.net 81-080-5008-3200 4. Salemba Jacob Park
oyoungchan@gmail.com 82-10-2872-4677 junghl6@naver.com 82-10-7269-8208 2. Chiba Caleb Park parkls@oec.co.kr
39. Jeongreung David Y. Lee 66. Sangdo Luke Ok-sung Lee jwpark@yahoo.co.jp 81-43-245-3375 48. Laos Geowoon Park
davidlee.jn316@gmail.com 82-10-7156-5803 eabsolute@empal.com 82-10-2031-5478 3. Fukuoka Joshep Choi 202406@hanmail.net
40. Jeonju I Moses Park 67. Sejong Moses Noh 4. Kanazawa Moses Hong 49. Mongolia
ytp2030@hanmail.net 82-10-2279-2050 (Director of Dailybread Department) 81-76-261-5919 1. West Ulan Bator Paul Kwon
41. Jeonju II Abraham Chang donghoonnoh@hanmail.net 82-10-2276-2408 5. Mishima Th
omas Kang paul-kwon@hanmail.net 976-9191-7186
jeonjuubf1@hanmail.net 82-10-3300-0168 68. Seochun Bong-Kun Shin kang@kimuragrp.co.jp 81-55-986-9197 2. East Ulan Bator Matthew Lim
42. Jinju Stephan Kim scubf@paran.com 82-10-7336-7640 6. Nagasaki David Jun imts65@hanmail.net 976-9100-8835
paul8024@hanmail.net 82-10-6687-3589 69. Shinsoo John Shin bdjun@net.nagasaki-u.ac.jp 81-95-842-1378 3. MUIS G. Gansukh
43. Jongno I Caleb Kim johnshin21c@naver.com 82-10-2718-7218 7. Oita Ray Grondin gansukh.g@gmail.mn 976-98993773
abskim@hanmail.net 82-10-2691-9891 70. Sinchon Gi-Sung Eom raymond.grondin@gmail.com 81-97-535-1424 50. Philippines
44. Jongno I(SNU II) Paul B. Lee disciples@empal.com 82-10-8770-8432 8. Osaka Abraham Noji 1. Manila William Altobar
byungdoo99@yahoo.com 82-10-4760-7860 71. SNU (Gwanak I) Chang-Won Kim kei74@hotmail.com 81-6-6845-1411 drwilliamaltobar@yahoo.com 63-091-7648-8629
45. Jongno II Spurgeon Lee vikcw@naver.com 82-10-3875-2876 9. Sendai Seong-Jin Jo 2. Baguio Monica Kim
spglee@hanmail.net 82-10-6390-1382 72. SNU (Gwanak III) Moses Yoon lhee20@hotmail.com 81-22-305-5178 63-918-693-0684
46. Jongno VII Elijah Moon (Director of World Mission Department) 10. Sizuoka Joseph Seo 3. UPLB, Laguna Paul Koh
absolutemoon@hanmail.net 82-10-9988-5527 mosesyoonuk@hanmail.net 82-10-4736-2904 54-746-3375 kohyou@empal.comt 63-908-142-7245
47. Joongang Spener Lee 73. SNU (Gwanak IV) Abraham Jeong 11. Tokai Abraham Park 4. Quezon John Sang-jin Jeong
tnt65@naver.com 82-10-9521-5494 ehj@lawleeko.co.kr 82-11-478-2151 abpark@yahoo.co.jp 81-463-78-2484 jsj7341@hanmail.net 63-0916-544-7155
48. Kangleung Isaac Choi 74. Sogang Elijah Ahn 12. Toshima Joshua Jeayoung Lee 51. Singapore
cjuen88@hanmail.net 82-10-3833-6678 elijah_21c@hotmail.com 82-10-3225-9956 yosualee@hotmail.com 81-50-7539-7255 1. Singapore I Joshua Hong
49. Kumkang Samuel Shon 75. Songdo Ezra Kim 13. Utsunomiya Daniel Choi hongjoshua@hanmail.net 65-9457-6740
holalatin@hanmail.net 82-10-2718-4250 kimezra@hanmail.net 82-10-9006-5684 2. Singapore II Andrew Ahn
50. Kwangju I Nehemiah Kim 76. Sungdong Moses Ok-Gi Lee danielchoi12@hotmail.com 81-28-649-7602
abs66@hanmail.net 65-6776-5645
(Director of Bible Materials Department) 2774984@hanmail.net 82-10-6277-4984 42. Bangladesh
52. Sri-Lanka Barnabas Baek
nehkim@hanmail.net 82-10-3621-1938 77. Suwon John Cho 1. DaccaI Elizabeth Kim
barnabasubf@hotmail.com 94-778544319
2. Dacca II Luke Hyunkun Jung
108 109
53. Taiwan paul-ro@hanmail.net 7-812-973-6605 gdk426@gmail.com 49-621-22258 jonnie72@gmail.com 40-724-220-823
1. Kaohsing Steve Haga 10. Vladivostok John Park 18. Mnchen Peter Kwak 90. Serbia Daniel Ko
stevewhaga@yahoo.com 886-7-521-4702 johnpark1991@empal.com 7-4232-43-0494 dspkwak@gmail.com 49-89-51089620 danijelko@yahoo.co.kr 381-64-1314-326
2. Taipei Mark Hui 11. Yekaterinburg David Lee 19. Stuttgart David Hong 91. Slovakia Paul Jang
huiyuenyung@hotmail.com 886-9-2189-2038 Yekat2000@yahoo.co.kr 7-343-349-5211 davidhong99@hotmail.com 49-711-93594787 jangsy0329@hanmail.net 421-903-743-124
54. Thailand Peter Lee 69. Tajikistan J. A. 20. Wiesbaden Augustin Kim 92. Spain Joshua Kang
ubft hai@gmail.com 66-81-615-3868 70. Ukraine augustinkim@gmail.com 49-611-40889 slayer9k@naver.com 34-633-532-603
55. Vietnam Joshua Chin 1. Kiev Peter Kim 73. Austria James Han 93. Sweden John Joo
joshuavn@hanmail.net peterkimkiev@gmail.com 38-067-234-7749 jameshan97@gmail.com 43-0699-19027012 jkangho@hanmail.net 46-73-685-3519
2. Dnepropetrovsk Abraham Vasilenko 74. Belgium Joshua Lee 94. Switzerland
ASIA : MIDDLE EAST dnepr.ubf@gmail.com 38-050-691-7825 joshualee@skynet.be 0032-494-329-775 1. Geneva Paul Lee
56. Qatar J. K. 3. Kharkov Jacob Patriyuk 75. Bulgaria James Kang paulgva@gmail.com 41-79-775-4134
(M. East Coordinator) kharkov.ubf@gmail.com 38-050-440-3379 ubfj ames@safemessaging.biz 359-888-374256 2. Bern Johannes Kim
57. Israel Joseph Son 4. Odessa John Lee 76. Croatia Joseph Bae bernjohannes1@gmail.com 41-31-301-8917
58. Kuwait E. L. odesaking@hanmail.net 38-048-714-3625 minhob@hanmail.net 385-99 401-0993 95. United Kingdom
59. Lebanon Studd Jo 5. Podil (Kiev) John Peace 77. Czech Republic 1. London Ian Kaier
60. Pakistan P. K. johnpeace1@gmail.com 38-097-284-4988 1. Prague Hannah Shin iankaier@gmail.com 44-207-263-2355
61. Saudi Arabia B. P. 71. Uzbekistan G. P. arirang@volny.cz 420-233-920-017 2. Kingston David Suk
62. Turkey J. L. 2. Ostrava Ezra Yoon davidsukuk@gmail.com 44-7809-692-903
EUROPE yonjoo33@daum.net 420-724-480-727
63. United Arab Emirates OCEANIA
72. Germany 78. Denmark Caleb Lee
1. Abu Dhabi M. Y.
1. Kln I Walter Nett cleedk@gmail.com 45-3678-1737 96. Australia
2. Dubai R. M.
(Europe Coordinator) 79. Finland Studd Kim 1. Sydney Univ. Aquila Lee
C. I. S. walter.nett@gmx.net 49-157-88543639 bonojsk@gmail.com 358 46 529 1653 (Oceania Coordinator)
2. Bonn Peter Chang 80. France aquila012@hanmail.net 61-432011749
64. Kazakhstan
drpeterchang@gmail.com 49-179-2197-485 1. Paris Marc Choi 2. Melbourne Joseph Sim
1. Astana D. B.
3. Braunschweig Kaleb J. Hong marcchoiubf@yahoo.fr 33-1-4325-0282 simjsb@gmail.com 61-414850074
(CIS Coordinator)
jabez.hong17@gmail.com 49-531-2889467 2. Nantes Bruno Aussant 3. Canberra Joshua Y. Lee
2. Almaty A. S.
4. Darmstadt I Moses Lee bruno.aussant@free.fr 33-9-8179-6383 yunseok@webone.com.au 61-412-564-111
3. Karaganda J. M. mosesubf@hotmail.com 49-6151-9189393 81. Greece 4. La Trobe Univ. Joseph Yang
65. Belarus Paul Oh 5. Darmstadt II Josua H. Kim 1. Athens I Paul Lee 00579@jeimail.com 61-3-9848-4004
paulminsk@yahoo.co.kr 375-29-758-9086 hyjokim@hotmail.de 49-6151-9576284 paulhlee@hanmail.net 30-210-7210223 5. Sydney, Macquarie Mark Lee
66. Kyrgyzstan
6. Dsseldorf I Daniel H. K. Park 2. Athens II (NTUA) Mark Lee ubfmarklee@gmail.com 61-2-9874-0337
1. Oshe C. K. danielpark40@gmail.com 49-211-345771 markhslee@hanmail.net 30-210-7717-473 97. Fiji Islands Esther Cho
2. Bishkek M. P. 7. Dsseldorf II Titus Keller 82. Hungary 98. New Zealand
67. Latvia Caleb Kim tituskeller@yahoo.de 49-178-3809201 1. Budapest Andrew Kim 1. Auckland Nehemiah Lim
calebkimmos@gmail.com 371-2755-9235 8. Frankfurt I David Cho palmerstonnth@yahoo.co.kr 64-21-710-580
hungaryandrew@hotmail.com 36-70-538-4998
68. Russia davidcho21@hanmail.net 49-69-9731-9931 2. Debrecen Luke Song 2. Dunedin John Weare
1. Moscow Alexsey Belyh 9. Frankfurt II Moses Hur songhanlim@hanmail.net 36-52-513-116 jswnz@xtra.co.nz 64-3-473-7029
(Moscow Director) mohurse@hotmail.com 49-69-6860-2333 99. Papua New Guinea
83. Ireland John Park Matthew Bai
2. MSTU (Moscow) Joshua Kim 10. Frankfurt III Abraham Moses Ju shpark89@gmail.com 353-87-224-0861 mathewabraham503@gmail.com 675-721-66406
moscom@korea.com 7-495-790-4860 abrahammose@yahoo.de 49-69-57801030 84. Italy Anton Ibrahimov
3. MGIMO (Moscow) Peter Kim 11. Freiburg Noah You ibrahimov.ag@gmail.com
peterkimru@hanmail.net 7-926-884-8055 ubf-freiburg@gmx.de 49-761-31692 85. Macedonia Barnabas Kang
4. MISS (Moscow) Anna Kim 12. Hamburg Peter Oh jinpil@hanmail.net 389-2-3079-464
7hanse@hanmail.net 7-495-585-3752 ohpeter.hh@gmail.com 49-40-18062088 86. Norway Joseph Jin
5. Irkutsk Andrew Han 13. Heidelberg Kaleb Hong pearlseop@gmail.com 47-5531-3074
info@baikal.biz 7-3952-380-361 kaleb.hong@gmx.de 49-6221-164786 87. Poland
6. Nizny Novgorod Maria Nikitin 14. Karlsruhe James Kim 1. Warsaw Elijah Park
julimary@yandex.ru 7-920-295-4373 James.Kim@gmx.de 49-721-695568 eliaszpark@yahoo.com 48-601-412097
7. Perm Andrew Moon 15. Kln II Andreas Krahwinkel 2. Poznan Henryk Lee
uralmun@naver.com 070-4300-3432 akrahwinkel@yahoo.de 49-221-449252 takeme07a@hotmail.com 48-797-025-855
8. St. Petersburg Caleb Han 16. Mainz Samuel Peter Ryu 88. Portugal Mateus Singh
hkaleb@hanmail.net 7-812-356-4123 spryu2003@yahoo.de 49-6131-362976 b.singh@samsung.com 351-96-424-3793
9. St. Petersburg (Art) Paul Roh 17. Mannheim Johannes Kim 89. Romania John Jung
110 111