by Ray Viola | Jan 16, 2025 | Lessons from the Old Testament
In the Book of Esther, we are introduced to a man by the name of Hamaan. He is a man who embodies everything that a follower of Jesus Christ is not to be. Hamaan has hatred and prejudice in his heart towards a Jew named Mordecai because he refused to bow down to him...
by Ray Viola | Jan 15, 2025 | Lessons from the Old Testament
The Name of God is not mentioned a single time in the book of Esther; but the invisible hand of a God is very much at work in her life on every single page. There is a tendency to think that if I am not experiencing an “in your face” encounter with The...
by Ray Viola | Jan 14, 2025 | Lessons from the Old Testament
In Genesis 32, we find Jacob in a very intense situation. After 20 years of being separated from his brother Esau, a reunion is now imminent. Jacob, the supplanter, had stripped his older brother Esau of his birthright and blessing from their father Isaac. He is...
by Ray Viola | Jan 11, 2025 | Devotionals, Lessons from the Old Testament
Jer 40.1-3 1 The word came to Jeremiah from the LORD after Nebuzaradan commander of the imperial guard had released him at Ramah. He had found Jeremiah bound in chains among all the captives from Jerusalem and Judah who were being carried into exile to Babylon. And...
by Ray Viola | Jan 9, 2025 | Lessons from the Old Testament
Jer 41.10-17 If you stay in this land, I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you, for I have relented concerning the disaster I have inflicted on you. Do not be afraid of the king of Babylon, whom you now fear. Do not be afraid of...
by Ray Viola | Dec 31, 2024 | Devotionals, Lessons from the Old Testament
Psalm 27. 13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.This in one of the most precious Psalms written by David. It is a record of David’s faith in The Lord, and His desire to dwell in His presence. But it is...