Trusting the Eternal Rock in Grief

Heart Happy

Audio By Carbonatix

“Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.” – Isaiah 26:4

Every day, I still find myself walking toward Grandma’s room, ready to check on her—only to remember she isn’t there. Every night, I wake up and instinctively glance toward the room next to mine, only to be met with emptiness.

Grief feels like walking through fog. Days after Grandma’s passing, I even broke my toe. Each step I took sent a sharp reminder of pain. It was an outward picture of what was happening inside—my heart limping along under the unseen weight of loss.

And yet, even in this season of aching absence, I hold on to hope.

Remembering a Legacy of Faith

When I close my eyes, I can return to childhood Sundays, standing next to Grandma in that little church. Her voice rose strong in song, her hands lifted high in worship. She adored Jesus. From the day she gave her life to Him, she never wavered in her devotion.

Now, she sees Him face to face. I cannot imagine her joy. The resurrection life is so real, I can almost taste it. My chest fills with hope even while my throat tightens with tears. This is the tension of grief and faith—pain and hope side by side.

Learning to Live in a New Rhythm

For twenty-five years, caregiving was woven into my days. My life revolved around Grandma’s needs. I chose to stay home when others went out, to sacrifice moments so she would not be alone. Now, life looks different.

Just recently, I spent Bella’s 18th birthday with her, a full day away from home. It was a gift, but it also felt strange. Adjusting to this new rhythm—hours of freedom I didn’t use to have—is its own kind of transition.

Still, I wouldn’t trade the years of caring for Grandma for anything else. Those years shaped me. They deepened my faith, strengthened my patience, and expanded my capacity to love. I have no regrets. Gratitude outweighs the sorrow.

Grandma’s Love in Everyday Moments

Her love spoke volumes, even without many words in her final days:

In the hospital: I told her I loved her. She mouthed it back. I teased, “I love you more.” She shook her head. No. She loved me more. The message was clear, even without her voice.
Around our dinner table: With seven adopted children gathered and plates filled, she’d look around and smile, “It’s a Sunday dinner on a Tuesday night.” She savored the simple blessing of food and family.
In her prayers: Just weeks before her passing, I heard her pray with clarity I hadn’t witnessed in years. It was as if she was already leaning closer to heaven. That sound—the sound of her talking to Jesus—is etched in my soul.

God’s goodness was woven through her life: in her faithful prayers, her delight in small joys, and her steady love. I imagine her now at the banqueting table Jesus prepared for her, joy overflowing, still interceding for those she loves.

A Word to the Grieving Heart

If you are walking through grief, hear this today:

It’s okay to cry, to ache, to feel like you can’t take another step.
It’s okay to breathe deeply and adjust to a “new normal.”
You are not betraying your loved one by smiling again, by laughing, by embracing life.

We ache because of love—and that ache is holy. We live because of love—and that, too, is good.

Jesus is near. He is the eternal Rock who holds you steady when everything else feels fragile.

“The same tender attention that fashioned the galaxies attends to you today, dear grieving friend. The same strength that hoisted the planets upholds you in your weakness.”
Clarissa Moll

Reflection Questions

What memory of your loved one brings a smile to your face, even through tears?
How does Isaiah 26:4 remind you of God’s strength when you feel weak in grief?
What new rhythms of life are you adjusting to, and how might you invite Jesus into them?

A Prayer for the Grieving

Lord, You are the eternal Rock. You are steady when everything in my world feels fragile. My heart aches with loss, and I miss my loved one deeply. Thank You for the hope of resurrection and the promise that death is not the end. Thank You for Your presence that never leaves me. Please comfort me in my sorrow, steady my steps, and fill my heart with peace today. Help me to trust You more fully as my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen.

Holding On to Hope

Grief is never easy. Some days it feels heavy, and other days hope breaks through in the smallest ways—a memory, a song, a prayer. Yet every day that passes brings us one day closer to eternity, one day closer to reunion.

So, grieving friend, let’s cling to the Rock together. He is faithful. He is steady. He is near.

“Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.” – Isaiah 26:4

Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH

📖 Introducing the Daily Bible Podcast
Audio Player! 🔊

Immerse yourself in God’s Word like never before with the MegaVoice Daily Bible Podcast Audio Player—a solar-powered, portable way to listen to the entire NIV Bible and the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia Goyer and Michelle Hill!

✔️ Unplug & Listen – Step away from digital distractions and enjoy an uninterrupted discipleship experience.
✔️ Simple & Accessible – With easy controls, it’s perfect for all ages, including kids, seniors, and the visually impaired.
✔️ Listen Anywhere, Anytime – Solar-powered with up to 14 hours of battery life, plus a USB charging option for cloudy days.

💡 Whether you’re at home, on a mission trip, or enjoying quiet time in nature, this MegaVoice Audio Bible Player helps you stay connected to God’s Word—without a screen!

🎧 Get yours today and experience the Bible in a whole new way!

Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle

September 1
Ezekiel 32:17-32, Ezekiel 33:1-20, Jeremiah 52:28-30, Psalm 137:1-9, 1 Chronicles 4:24-43, 1 Chronicles 5:1-17

Choices and Their Consequences

The Weight of Consequences

As we journey through Ezekiel 32:17-32, Ezekiel 33:1-20, and Jeremiah 52:28-30, the theme of consequences looms large. Every action, every choice, carries weight—whether for good or for ill. God, through His prophets, constantly reminded Israel and the surrounding nations that their decisions would lead to inevitable outcomes. Today, we explore the significance of these consequences and how they continue to resonate in our lives.

Ezekiel 32: The Fall of Nations

In Ezekiel 32, we see a vivid picture of the downfall of mighty nations, including Egypt. God instructs Ezekiel to weep for Egypt and other powerful nations, for they are destined for the pit—Sheol, a place of the dead. These nations, once feared and powerful, now face the ultimate consequence of their arrogance and violence: destruction and shame. Their power and terror brought them no lasting security; instead, it led them to the grave.

This passage serves as a stark reminder that no matter how powerful a nation or individual may appear, their actions have consequences. When pride, violence, and disobedience reign, the result is always downfall.

Ezekiel 33: The Watchman’s Warning

God’s message to Ezekiel in chapter 33 is one of deep responsibility. Ezekiel is likened to a watchman—someone who stands guard and warns the people of impending danger. If the watchman fails to sound the alarm, the blood of the people falls on his hands. But if he warns them and they do not heed, then their blood is on their own heads.

This responsibility is a sobering reminder that we are called to be vigilant, both in our spiritual lives and in the lives of those around us. God’s plea through Ezekiel is clear: “Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die?” God does not delight in punishment; He desires repentance and life. But the choice is ours, and with it comes the consequence—life or death.

Jeremiah 52: The Reality of Exile

Jeremiah 52:28-30 recounts the numbers of Israelites taken into exile in Babylon. The total number of captives was 4,600—a small remnant compared to the population before the exile. This passage, though brief, is a poignant reminder of the consequences of a nation’s collective disobedience to God. The exile was not just a historical event; it was the direct result of Israel’s persistent rebellion against God.

Word of the Day: Consequences

Definition: An act or instance of following something as an effect, result, or outcome.

Our word today carries the weight of actions and decisions. Throughout the Bible, we see the principle of sowing and reaping. What we sow in our lives—whether righteousness or wickedness—will bear fruit, and that fruit is the consequence of our choices.

Living with Awareness of Consequences

As I reflected on these passages, I couldn’t help but think of a recent visit to the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine. Standing in the watchtower, I thought about Ezekiel’s role as a watchman. What would happen if a watchman saw danger coming and didn’t warn the others? The result would be disastrous—a direct consequence of inaction.

In our lives, the consequences of our choices may not always be immediate, but they are inevitable. Ezekiel and Jeremiah serve as powerful reminders that we must live with an awareness of the outcomes our actions produce. Are we making choices that align with God’s will, leading us toward His blessings? Or are we heading toward our own “Babylon,” a place of captivity due to poor decisions?

Choose Wisely, Live Wisely

The choices we make today shape the consequences we will face tomorrow. God’s desire is for us to live in alignment with His will, to make decisions that lead to life and blessing. But this requires discernment, vigilance, and a willingness to heed His warnings. This week, let’s commit to making choices grounded in God’s wisdom, fully aware of the ripples they will create in our lives and the lives of those around us.

September 2
1 Chronicles 5:18-26, 1 Chronicles 6:3, 49, 1 Chronicles 6:4-15, 1 Chronicles 7:1-8:28

The Significance of Lineage

In today’s readings from 1 Chronicles, we delve into the rich tapestry of Israel’s lineage. The passages may seem like simple genealogies at first glance, but they hold much more—they connect us to the stories, lessons, and legacies of those who came before us. Lineage is more than just a family tree; it’s the foundation of our identity, shaping our values, perspectives, and faith. As we explore the lineage of the tribes of Israel, we’re reminded that we, too, are part of a greater narrative—God’s grand design that spans generations.

1 Chronicles 5:18-26 – The Warriors of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh

The descendants of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were mighty warriors, skilled in battle and numerous. Their unity and trust in God led them to victory against the Hagrites. However, their story takes a tragic turn when they turn away from God, worshipping foreign gods. As a result, God allowed them to be taken captive by Assyria. This part of their lineage serves as a cautionary tale—victory and strength are fleeting when we stray from God’s path.

1 Chronicles 6:3, 6:49, 6:4-15 – The Line of Aaron and the Role of Priests

The lineage of Aaron, traced in 1 Chronicles 6, highlights the importance of the priesthood in Israel. Aaron’s descendants were responsible for the sanctuary and the altar, making atonement for the people of Israel as commanded by Moses. This sacred duty was passed down through generations, emphasizing the spiritual legacy that was carefully preserved. Even in exile, the lineage of priests remained a symbol of hope and continuity for the people of Israel.

1 Chronicles 7:1-12 – The Descendants of Issachar, Benjamin, and Others

The genealogies of Issachar, Benjamin, and other tribes showcase the diversity and strength within Israel. These tribes produced notable leaders and warriors, each contributing to the nation’s story in their own way. For instance, the descendants of Issachar were known for their understanding of the times, while Benjamin’s descendants were skilled archers. These genealogies remind us that each tribe, each family, had a unique role in God’s plan.

Word of the Day: Lineage

Definition: Lineal descent from an ancestor; ancestry or extraction.

Our lineage is our ancestry and heritage, but it is not just about biological connections; it’s about the spiritual and ideological ties that bind us to those who have walked the path of faith before us. In the Bible, lineage serves as a reminder of both the blessings and responsibilities passed down through generations.

Embracing Our Spiritual Lineage

As I reflected on today’s readings, I was reminded of my own spiritual heritage. My 13th great-grandfather, John Rogers, was the first Protestant martyr under Queen Mary I, a man who sacrificed everything to ensure that the Bible could be read by common people in their own language. His legacy is part of my lineage, both biologically and spiritually.

This lineage of faith is something we all share, whether through blood or through the countless spiritual ancestors who have paved the way for us. The sacrifices made by people like William Tyndale and John Rogers are the reason we have access to God’s Word today. Their commitment to preserving and spreading the truth of Scripture is a challenge to us all: How are we contributing to this lineage of faith?

Continuing the Legacy

Our lineage is a testament to God’s enduring truth and the unyielding spirit of His people. From the tribes of Israel to the heroes of the Reformation, we are part of a legacy that stretches back thousands of years. Let us honor this lineage by living lives that reflect the values, faith, and lessons passed down to us. Embrace your place in this lineage, and ensure that the faith handed down to you continues to thrive and flourish in the generations to come.

September 3
1 Chronicles 8:29-9:1, Daniel 4, Ezekiel 40:1-37

God’s Divine Measurement vs. Worldly Standards

In today’s readings from 1 Chronicles, Daniel, and Ezekiel, we encounter the theme of measurement—not just in physical dimensions, but in how God measures worth, power, and success. The Bible frequently uses measurements, whether literal or metaphorical, to convey deep spiritual truths. As we explore these passages, we’ll see how God’s measurements contrast with the world’s standards and how they guide us in understanding His perfect plan.

1 Chronicles 8:29-9:1 – The Lineage of Saul

The passage in 1 Chronicles provides a genealogy of Saul, Israel’s first king. It’s a record of names, lineages, and connections, each measured and noted by God. The significance of these genealogies isn’t just in the names listed but in how they remind us of God’s attention to detail and His orchestration of history. Every name, every lineage, is part of God’s divine plan, measured out according to His will.

Daniel 4: The King Brought Low

In Daniel 4, we read about King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream of a grand tree that reached the heavens. This tree represented the king’s vast empire and power, yet it was cut down, leaving only a stump. The dream was a divine warning: despite his greatness, Nebuchadnezzar would be humbled until he recognized that the Most High God rules over the kingdoms of the world.

Nebuchadnezzar’s downfall serves as a powerful reminder that the measurements of worldly success—power, wealth, and influence—are fleeting. When Nebuchadnezzar’s pride led him to view himself as the source of his success, God’s judgment brought him low. Only after he acknowledged God’s sovereignty was his sanity and kingdom restored. This account teaches us that God’s measurements are vastly different from the world’s. True greatness is found in humility and submission to God’s will.

Ezekiel 40: A Vision of the Measured Temple

Ezekiel 40 takes us into a vision of the future temple, a detailed and meticulously measured structure. God provides Ezekiel with a heavenly guide who measures every part of the temple with precision. The walls, gateways, and courtyards are all measured and shown to Ezekiel, emphasizing that God is the master architect who plans and executes His design flawlessly.

This vision was given during Israel’s captivity, a time of despair and loss. Yet, through this detailed measurement, God offered hope—a promise of restoration and renewal. The measurements were not just for physical structures but were symbolic of God’s control, order, and purpose. Even in times of uncertainty, God’s measurements are exact, and His plans are perfect.

Word of the Day: Measurement

Definition: the act of measuring; a measured dimension; extent, size, etc., ascertained by measuring; a system of measuring or measures.

The word of the day refers to the act of determining dimensions, but also to the way we gauge success, value, and importance in our lives. God’s measurements, as seen in these passages, go beyond physical dimensions. They reflect His standards for righteousness, humility, and obedience.

Aligning with God’s Measurements

As we reflect on these passages, we’re challenged to consider the measurements by which we live our lives. In a world that often values success by power, wealth, and influence, God calls us to a different standard. Nebuchadnezzar’s story in Daniel 4 shows us the dangers of pride and the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty. Ezekiel’s vision reminds us that God’s plans are precise and perfect, measured out with divine accuracy.

In our own lives, we must ask ourselves: Are we measuring our worth by the world’s standards or by God’s? Are we seeking validation through earthly achievements, or are we aligning ourselves with God’s will, finding our value in faith and obedience? True fulfillment comes not from the measurements of this world but from living according to God’s divine scale.

Embracing God’s Divine Scale

Today’s readings invite us to reconsider how we measure success, worth, and significance. Let’s strive to align our lives with God’s measurements, seeking humility, obedience, and faithfulness. In the grand scale of eternity, it’s God’s measurements that will stand the test of time. May we find peace and purpose in knowing that our lives are part of His perfect plan, measured out with love and precision.

September 4
Ezekiel 40:38-49, Ezekiel 41-43

God’s Absolute Design

In our continued journey through Ezekiel’s vision, we find ourselves immersed in the detailed measurements and designs of the temple. These chapters, Ezekiel 40:38-49 and Ezekiel 41, might seem like a mere architectural blueprint at first glance. Still, they reveal much more—God’s meticulous attention to detail, His absolute standard of holiness, and the profound significance of His dwelling place among His people. As we explore these passages, we’ll uncover what it means to embrace God’s call to absolute holiness in our own lives.

Ezekiel 40:38-41 – The Rooms of Sacrifice and Holiness

Ezekiel’s vision continues with a tour of the temple, starting with the rooms where sacrifices are prepared. These sacrifices—burnt offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings—may remind us of the detailed laws we encountered in Leviticus. Yet, in this future vision, the sacrifices symbolize something more: a memorial of love and devotion to the Lord. They bring people together in fellowship, celebrating God’s glory and faithfulness.

Next, we’re introduced to the rooms for the priests, particularly the descendants of Zadok, who are highlighted for their dedication to righteousness and holiness. As Ezekiel and his guide move through the inner courtyard and temple, the measurements continue with precision. Every inch of the temple is accounted for, reflecting God’s perfect plan.

Ezekiel 43 – The Return of God’s Glory

Ezekiel 43 brings us to a pivotal moment—the return of God’s glory to the temple. As Ezekiel watches, he sees the glory of God coming from the east, with a sound like the roar of rushing waters and a sight so brilliant that the whole landscape shines with His glory. God declares, “This is the place of my throne and the place where I will rest my feet. I will live here forever among the people of Israel.”

This vision of God resting in His temple is powerful. It signifies that His work is finished, much like the rest He took after creating the world. The chapter also includes detailed instructions for the altar’s design, consecration, and sacrifices, emphasizing the temple’s holiness and the Israelites’ renewed commitment to God.

Word of the Day: Absolute

Definition: Free from imperfection; complete; perfect.

The word of the day signifies perfection, purity, and freedom from imperfection. In Ezekiel 43:12, God declares, “And this is the basic law of the Temple: absolute holiness!” This is not just about physical cleanliness or ritualistic precision; it’s a call to moral and spiritual purity that reflects God’s own nature.

Striving for Absolute Holiness

As I reflect on these passages, I’m struck by the idea that if God is so intentional and precise about the measurements of a physical temple, how much more is He intentional about the details of our lives? The temple, with all its intricacies, serves as a reminder that our bodies and hearts are temples of the Holy Spirit. Just as the physical temple was to be a place of absolute holiness, so too should our lives reflect that same standard.

The concept of God resting in His temple also resonates deeply. It reminds me of Isaiah 66:2, where God says, “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such a resting place?” God doesn’t need grand structures; He desires hearts that are fully devoted to Him. If God’s standard for the temple is absolute holiness, then our response should be absolute surrender to His will, ways, and word.

This challenges me to examine my own life. Am I striving for that same level of holiness in my thoughts, actions, and decisions? Am I treating my life with the same respect and care that the Israelites were called to give the temple? Absolute holiness isn’t just a lofty ideal—it’s a daily commitment to live in a way that honors God’s perfect plan.

Embracing God’s Absolute Standards

Today’s readings invite us to embrace God’s call to absolute holiness. As we see in Ezekiel’s vision, every detail matters to God. He is a God of intention and precision, and His plans for us are perfect. Let’s strive to align our lives with His standards, pursuing holiness in every aspect of our lives. In doing so, we not only honor God but also find peace and purpose in knowing that our lives are part of His perfect, absolute plan.

September 5
Ezekiel 44-46

Living with Honest Integrity

In Ezekiel 44 and 45, we continue to witness the detailed vision God gave Ezekiel regarding the temple, its rituals, and the responsibilities of those who serve in it. But beyond the physical structure, these chapters emphasize something deeper—honesty and integrity in every area of life. God’s instructions weren’t just about religious rituals; they extended to daily dealings, commerce, and the character of His people. As we explore these passages, we’ll see how God’s call to honesty is as relevant today as it was in Ezekiel’s time.

Ezekiel 44: A Return to Holiness

In Ezekiel 44, we see God’s frustration with the priests who have allowed too much wickedness into the temple. God’s instructions are precise, reflecting His desire for holiness and purity. He calls out the descendants of Zadok for their faithfulness and emphasizes the importance of following His commands with exactness. The language God uses—“take careful notice,” “careful note”—underscores the seriousness of His instructions. God’s standards are absolute, and He expects His people to uphold them.

Ezekiel 45: Honest Scales and Integrity

Ezekiel 45 shifts focus from the temple’s rituals to the practical matters of daily life. God demands honest scales, weights, and measures, highlighting the importance of integrity in all dealings. This command isn’t just about fair commerce; it’s about the character and integrity of His people. God’s concern for honesty extends beyond the temple and into every interaction and transaction.

Proverbs echoes this sentiment:

Proverbs 11:1 – “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but a just weight is His delight.”
Proverbs 16:11 – “Honest weights and scales are the LORD’s; all the weights in the bag are His work.”
Proverbs 20:10 – “Diverse weights and diverse measures, they are both alike, an abomination to the LORD.”

These verses remind us that God values honesty and integrity. He cannot tolerate deceit, and He delights in fairness and truthfulness. Honesty isn’t just about telling the truth; it’s about living it in every aspect of our lives.

Word of the Day: Honest

Definition: The quality or fact of being honest; uprightness and fairness; truthfulness, sincerity, or frankness.

The word of the day embodies truthfulness, integrity, and genuineness. In Ezekiel 45:10, God commands, “Use only honest weights and scales and honest measures.” This call to honesty reflects God’s own nature, as He is the epitome of truth and integrity. He is honest, and He expects His people to reflect that honesty in their lives.

Embracing God’s Standard of Honesty

As I reflect on these passages, I’m struck by how God’s call to honesty is not just a command but an invitation to align our lives with His character. God is perfectly honest—He cannot lie, and there is no deceit in Him. If we are to live as His people, we must strive for that same level of integrity in our lives.

In today’s world, where filters and facades are common, true honesty can be hard to find. We often present a polished version of ourselves, especially on social media, but God sees beyond the surface. He is not just concerned with our Sunday worship; He cares about how we live on Monday, in the dark as well as in the light. Are we honest in our dealings? Are we the same person in private as we are in public?

This passage also serves as a reminder that God is giving His people another chance—a “let’s try this again” moment. The Israelites are in exile, but there is a promise of return. God is reminding them, and us, how things should be handled. He seeks people who will maintain the sanctity of His temple, who are true both inside and out.

God’s call to honesty and integrity is clear. It’s not just about avoiding lies; it’s about living a life that reflects His truth in every aspect. As we consider our own lives, let’s strive to be people of integrity, living honestly in all we do. God’s standard is absolute, and as His followers, we are called to uphold that standard. Let’s embrace honesty, not just as a practice, but as a way of life that honors God and reflects His character.

September 6
Ezekiel 47-48, Ezekiel 29:17-21, Ezekiel 30, 2 Kings 25:27-30, Jeremiah 52:31-34

God is Always There

As we conclude Ezekiel’s profound vision, we encounter two powerful chapters—Ezekiel 47 and 48—that paint a picture of restoration, hope, and God’s enduring presence. From the life-giving river flowing from the temple to the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, these chapters are rich in symbolism and significance. Most importantly, they culminate in a powerful declaration: “The Lord is There.” This name, Jehovah Shammah, reminds us that God’s presence is not only a promise for the future but a reality we can experience today.

Ezekiel 47: The River of Life

Ezekiel’s vision begins with a trickle of water flowing from the temple, gradually growing into a mighty river that brings life wherever it flows. This river isn’t just a physical phenomenon—it symbolizes the life-giving power of God’s presence. As the river flows eastward, it transforms even the most barren desert into a flourishing landscape. This imagery connects beautifully with other biblical passages, such as Zechariah 14:8 and Revelation 22:1-2, where rivers of living water symbolize God’s eternal life and blessings.

The river’s impact reminds us that no matter how dry or desolate our circumstances may seem, God’s presence can bring life, growth, and renewal. Just as the river made the desert bloom, God’s Spirit can revitalize our lives, filling us with His peace, joy, and purpose.

Ezekiel 48: The Division of the Land and the New City

In Ezekiel 48, we read about the division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe receives its allotted portion, with special attention given to the temple and the priests who serve there. The boundaries are precise, reflecting God’s careful plan and provision for His people.

The chapter concludes with a powerful statement: “And from that day the name of the city will be ‘The Lord is There.’” This name, Jehovah Shammah, is a profound declaration of God’s presence among His people. It assures us that God is not distant or aloof—He is right here with us, dwelling among His people, fulfilling His promises.

Word of the Day: There

Definition: In or at that place; at that point in an action, speech, etc.; in that matter, particular, or respect.

Our word today carries profound significance in this context. “The Lord is There” speaks of God’s presence in our lives, in our cities, and in our hearts. It’s a reminder that we are never alone; God is with us, guiding us, protecting us, and fulfilling His promises. This name of God, Jehovah Shammah, encapsulates the hope and assurance we have in Him.

Living in the Assurance of God’s Presence

As I reflect on these passages, I’m struck by the comfort and peace that come from knowing that “The Lord is There.” In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, this truth anchors our hearts. Whether we are walking through a season of abundance or a time of drought, God’s presence is constant. He is with us, just as He was with the Israelites in Ezekiel’s vision.

This assurance of God’s presence calls us to live differently. It reminds us to:

T – Territory: Recognize the spiritual territory God has entrusted to us. Just as the land was divided among the tribes, each of us has a unique space to influence and bless.
H – Heritage: Understand that when we are rooted in God, we can expect a harvest of blessings, building a legacy for future generations.
E – Engage: Deepen our connection with God, allowing His presence to reveal new depths of His grace.
R – Revelation: Embrace the revelation that God is with us, allowing our lives to reflect His omnipresence.
E – Expectancy: Live with an expectancy, anticipating the boundless opportunities God has for us, always with an eternal perspective.

In every moment, let your heart be anchored in the promise that God is always THERE with you.

Jehovah Shammah

As we close Ezekiel’s vision, we are left with a powerful truth: God is with us. He is Jehovah Shammah, “The Lord is There.” This name is not just a promise for the Israelites but a reality for us today. Let’s hold on to this hope, living with the confidence that God’s presence is with us, guiding us through every step of our journey. There is no greater comfort, no greater hope, than knowing that God is with us, now and forever.

September 7
Daniel 7-8; Daniel 5

Weighed on God’s Eternal Scales

Today’s readings from Daniel 7, 8, and 5 are rich with powerful imagery and profound lessons. From Daniel’s terrifying dream of four great beasts to the chilling message written on the wall at King Belshazzar’s feast, these passages remind us of the fleeting nature of worldly power and the eternal weight of God’s judgment. As we dive into these visions, we’ll explore the concept of being “weighed” and how our true worth is determined by God’s standards, not the world’s.

Daniel 7: The Vision of Four Beasts

In Daniel 7, we read about a dream Daniel had during the first year of King Belshazzar’s reign. He saw four great beasts rising from the sea, each one representing a powerful and fearsome empire. The lion with eagle’s wings, the bear with three ribs in its mouth, the leopard with four wings and heads, and the terrifying fourth beast with ten horns symbolize different kingdoms, each dominating in its unique way. Scholars have long debated the exact identities of these beasts, with some linking them to the empires in Nebuchadnezzar’s statue dream, while others see them as representations of Babylon, Greece, Rome, and future powers.

Despite the different interpretations, the message is clear: earthly kingdoms, no matter how powerful, rise and fall under God’s sovereign control. Yet, amidst these visions of power and destruction, Daniel sees a figure like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven, given authority, honor, and an eternal kingdom that will never be destroyed. This vision of the Messiah brings hope to a people whose own kingdom has been destroyed, reminding them—and us—of the enduring rule of God.

Daniel 5: The Writing on the Wall

Fast forward to Daniel 5, and we encounter King Belshazzar, who, despite witnessing his predecessor’s humbling, continues in arrogance and pride. During a feast, Belshazzar profanes the sacred vessels from the temple in Jerusalem, prompting a mysterious hand to write on the wall: “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.” Daniel is called to interpret the message, revealing that Belshazzar has been “weighed on the balances and found wanting.” That very night, the king is killed, and his kingdom falls to the Medes and Persians.

This story serves as a stark reminder that God’s judgment is just and inevitable. Belshazzar’s kingdom, though mighty, could not stand against the weight of God’s scales. The things we rely on for security—power, wealth, prestige—are ultimately fleeting. What truly matters is how we measure up in God’s eyes.

Daniel 8: The Ram and the Goat

In Daniel 8, we encounter another vision, this time of a ram and a goat. The ram with two horns represents the kings of Media and Persia, while the goat with a prominent horn symbolizes the king of Greece. The vision foretells the rise and fall of these empires, with the goat’s great horn breaking and being replaced by four lesser horns, symbolizing the division of Alexander the Great’s empire. Out of one of these horns arises a king who challenges God and persecutes His people.

This vision further illustrates the temporary nature of earthly power. No matter how strong or influential an empire might be, it is subject to God’s authority. The vision leaves Daniel disturbed, reminding us that even the strongest kingdoms are ultimately weighed and judged by God.

Word of the Day: Weighed

Definition: To evaluate, assess, or determine the worth or significance of something.

“You have been weighed on the balances and have not measured up.” - Daniel 5:27

This chilling statement to Belshazzar serves as a reminder that while we often measure ourselves by worldly standards, the only evaluation that truly matters is God’s.

Measuring Up in God’s Eyes

As I reflect on these passages, I’m reminded of how easy it is to get caught up in the world’s standards of success. We measure ourselves by our achievements, social media followers, job titles, or possessions, constantly seeking validation from others. But the story of Daniel 5 and the visions in Daniel 7 and 8 remind us that these measures are fleeting and ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of eternity.

What truly matters is how we measure up in God’s eyes. God’s scales are different—they weigh our hearts, our faith, and our commitment to His will. We don’t have to achieve greatness by the world’s standards to be valuable in God’s eyes. Our worth comes from being His children, loved and cherished by Him.

This realization challenges me to reevaluate how I live my life. Am I seeking to measure up to the world’s expectations, or am I focusing on what truly matters—growing in my relationship with God and living according to His purposes? The journey through the Bible, the habits we form, and the ways we choose to live our lives should reflect our desire to align with God’s eternal scales.

Aligning with God’s Eternal Scales

As we ponder the visions of Daniel and the lessons they offer, let’s remember that our true worth is found in God’s eyes, not in the fleeting measures of the world. We have been weighed, but thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, we are not found wanting. Instead, we are valued, loved, and redeemed. Let’s strive to live in a way that reflects this truth, measuring ourselves by God’s standards and seeking to please Him above all else.