Reflecting on the "depth" of my trust in God: would I quote Rom8:28 if I was in a pit, being hated & betrayed & sold as a slave by my brothers (Joseph Gen37)?!

"...that through ENDURANCE and through the ENCOURAGEMENT of the Scriptures we might have HOPE." Enduring like the OT saints; encouraged at God's sovereign care!

"For whatever was written in former days (Gen-Malachi) was written for our instruction..." Romans15:4a Too little learning & teaching from the Hebrew Scriptures

God's sovereignty, faithfulness to His promises & ability to carry out His plan-->stands out in the story of Jacob&sons (Gen26+)... hope b/c of God, not man!

Encouraged in a different kind of way this am: reading Gen30-38-->"heroes of Bible" are FLAWED people...God redeems, changes, uses people like these...like me!

2Cor 1:3-11 A real person's story of how God is in the midst of every & all situations of life-->refining us, giving hope & strength-->so we can help others!

What striking imagery of what the daily battle in our hearts looks like: "setting up idols in their hearts" Ezek 14:1-8 cf James 4:1-10 Spiritual adultery...

Enjoying the brilliance of Christ--amazed, along with the crowds, at the depth & authority of His teaching! Matthew chps1-7, esp sermon on the mount (5-7)!

Endeavoring to be wise, discerning, more godly, fair & caring...therefore: headed to listen & learn from God thru His Word this morning! Proverbs 1:1-7

Excited for church this morning... reading Ezekiel 1-4-->imagine seeing the "chariot of God" & the glory of the LORD?!! Wanting to be more "heavenly-minded"!

"Don't let your hearts be troubled..." Walking with a grieving family (funeral arr's). John 14:1-6 brings comfort & hope! Our Good Shepherd cares: Ps23; Jn 15!

For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Wisdom/"guard rails" for every choice!

The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear (awe, revere) God and keep His commandments, because this appplies to every person.