From the pen of Dr. Sam Jones

The Bible readings for today are 2 Chronicles 27 and Isaiah 9-12. Two thoughts will be shared from the readings to consider as we strive to transform our lives into the image of Christ and confront the various challenges to our faith.

How will you be remembered (2 Chronicles 27)? Jotham, the son of Uzziah, served as King of Judah for sixteen years or until the age of forty-one. Second Chronicles 27: 2 states he “did what was right in the sight of the Lord.” What a wonderful tribute! In spite of the corruption of the people, Jotham refused to conform to their actions, but put forth every effort to live a life in compliance with the command of God. He followed the steps of his father who was a good man and king, until one day pride caused him to desire to engage in an act in worship for which those, outsiders of the tribe of Levi, were restricted. Pride caused Uzziah to live the last decade of his life as a leper; Jotham, unlike his father, maintained control of his heart and remained humble all the days of his life. Humility is a vital and key component to remaining faithful to God and being concerned with how others will perceive your life. Furthermore, in this chapter the Bible declares “…Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God” (27:6). This implies Jotham was able to please God because he purposely and intentionally planned to do God’s will in spite of what others were doing. Therefore, after his death, he is recognized as one who lived to please God. Again, how will you be remembered by those who know you?

Are you thankful person (Isaiah 9-12)? The messianic prophet Isaiah, in chapters 9-12, affirms several truths related to the forthcoming of the Son of God. He informs his readers of the following truth, “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given…” (9:6). Isaiah describes something which was to occur some 600 years later – the giving of  a gift by the Father to the world – His Only Son. Jesus, with His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead, established His everlasting kingdom. This new and everlasting kingdom is to be inclusive of all people (Jews and Gentiles). The Messiah, who is to reign as King, is going to be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Isaiah, in these chapters, describes the giving of God’s Son as the greatest gift ever-given. God’s gift made salvation available to all (cf. Rom. 6:23; Tit. 2:11). Thus, “whosoever” put their faith in Jesus Christ can be redeemed from their sins (cf. Rom. 10:11-13). What a wonderful gift! As a result of God’s gift, Paul encourages us to “give thanks” or be thankful people for what He has done for us (cf. Rom. 6:17-18; Col. 1:12-13). We have a wonderful reason to be thankful. Are you a thankful person?

How will you be remembered and are you a thankful person are two thoughts worth considering. Please put some thought into these two questions!