The Message of the Cross

Today's Reading: Psalm 83, Exodus 27:20-28:43, Nehemiah 9, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Psalm 83 - This is another of Asaph's psalms of lament. He is asking for God to intercede on behalf of His people, the Nation of Israel. In these psalms it is common to see the psalmist ask God to wipe out the enemies of Israel so that the world will see that God is the most powerful God.

Exodus 27:20-28:43 - It's interesting to read about the provisions that God made for the clothing that Aaron and his son's would wear. As priests in Israel, Aaron and his sons had a special calling. Their clothing reflected that clothing. As God's people today, our lives should look different to the world around us. While our clothing isn't anything special, the way that we reflect Christ to the world should be. We are a holy priesthood, a chosen people, and should live as such.

Nehemiah 9 - What an incredible scene! Ezra calls the people to repentance. The people gather for 1/4 of the day to hear the law read. Then for another 1/4 of the day, they repent of the sins that they have committed as individuals and as a nation. How fascinating to see the power of the word of God to convict hearts, even in such a mass crowd. Scripture is alive and able to convict the hearts of men and women.

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 - 18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. If ever there has been a doctrine that has come under attack, it is this doctrine of the cross and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Those who don't know Christ often times consider the cross and it's message to be foolishness. God's grace is so wonderful. Think today about the message of the cross, and how the cross has changed your life.