SAM HONIBALL BLOG

  The Lord made the earth by his power, and he preserves it by his wisdom. With his own understanding he stretched out the heavens. Jeremiah‬ ‭51:15‭ ‭NLT‬‬ Context This verse is part of a prophecy against Babylon, a powerful and oppressive nation that had conquered Judah and exiled its people. In this chapter, Jeremiah is declaring God's judgment on Babylon, foretelling its eventual destruction. Key Themes • God's power: The verse emphasizes God's power in creating and sustaining the earth. It is a reminder that God is sovereign over all creation, and nothing happens outside of His control. • God's wisdom: The verse also highlights God's wisdom in creating and sustaining the world. It is a testament to God's infinite knowledge and understanding. • God's sovereignty: The overall message of the verse is that God is the ultimate ruler over the universe. He is not subject to the whims of chance or the power of other nations. Application This verse

  All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives... 2 Timothy‬ ‭3:16 ‭NLT‬‬ Context 2 Timothy 3:16 is part of a larger passage in which Paul is writing to his spiritual son, Timothy, about the importance of being grounded in the Scriptures. Paul is concerned that Timothy will be led astray by the false teachings that were becoming prevalent in their time. Key Themes • Inspiration: The Bible is not just a collection of human writings; it is the inspired Word of God. This means that it was breathed out by God himself and is therefore authoritative and trustworthy. • Instruction: The Bible is useful for teaching us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It provides us with a sound foundation for our faith and helps us to live a life that is pleasing to God. • Correction: The Bible can be a powerful tool for correcting our wrong beliefs and behaviors. It shows us the areas of our

  If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. 2 Timothy‬ ‭2:21‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Context 2 Timothy 2:21 is part of a larger passage in which Paul is instructing Timothy on how to live a godly life. In this passage, Paul is emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness. He warns Timothy to avoid sinful behavior and to associate with people who are committed to following Christ. Key Themes • Purity: This verse emphasizes the importance of purity in both our thoughts and actions. We are called to cleanse ourselves from anything that is dishonorable or sinful. • Holiness: We are called to be set apart for God's use. This means living a life that is dedicated to serving God and doing good works. • Servanthood: We are called to be prepared for every good work. This means being ready and willing to serve God and others in whatever way He calls us. Application

  For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Context This is a verse from the New Testament book of 2 Timothy, which is a letter from the apostle Paul to his protégé Timothy. In this letter, Paul encourages Timothy to be faithful in his ministry and to face opposition with courage. Meaning In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul is contrasting the spirit of fear and timidity with the spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. He is saying that God does not want us to be paralyzed by fear, but rather that he wants us to be empowered by his Spirit to live a life of love and self-control. Application This verse is a reminder that God is with us and that he will give us the strength we need to face any challenge. It is also a call to live a life of love and self-discipline, which are the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Here are some specific applications of this verse: • When we are facing fear, we can turn to God for stren

  May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word. Psalms‬ ‭119:74‬ ‭NLT‬‬ • The psalmist's desire: The psalmist desires to be a source of joy for those who fear God. This desire is rooted in their own hope in God's word. • The connection between hope and joy: The psalmist believes that their hope in God's word will lead to joy for themselves and others. They understand that true joy comes from God, and that by living in accordance with His word, they can reflect His joy in their lives. • The role of example: The psalmist recognizes that their life can serve as an example for others. They want their actions and words to demonstrate the power and goodness of God's word. • The importance of community: The psalmist desires to be a part of a community of believers who share their faith and hope. They know that their own joy is connected to the joy of others, and they want to contribute to a community of shared joy. Additional

  You have done many good things for me, Lord, just as you promised. You are good and do only good... Psalms‬ ‭119:65‬, 68 ‭NLT‬‬ Context These verses come from Psalm 119, the longest psalm in the Bible, which is an extended meditation on the law of God. The psalm is divided into 22 sections, each of which begins with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Verses 65-68 are from the section that begins with the letter ט (tet). Main Idea The main idea of these verses is that God is good and does only good. The psalmist reflects on God's faithfulness and goodness, and expresses his gratitude for all that God has done for him. He also recognizes that God's goodness is not limited to his own personal experience, but that it extends to all of creation. Key Points • God is good (v. 68). This is a fundamental belief of the psalmist and of the entire Bible. God's goodness is not based on his actions alone, but also on his character. He is inherently good and always acts

  Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones. Proverbs 25:15 NLT This proverb highlights the power of patience and gentle communication in achieving our goals and influencing others. Patience Patience is the ability to stay calm and composed in difficult situations. It is about waiting for the right time to act and not reacting impulsively. Patience is often described as a virtue, and it is essential for building strong relationships and achieving long-term success. Soft speech Soft speech is the use of kind and gentle words. It is about speaking in a way that is respectful and considerate of others. Soft speech can be more effective than harsh words, as it is less likely to provoke anger or defensiveness. Application The proverb can be applied to various situations in our lives. Here are a few examples: • When dealing with a difficult customer or colleague, patience and soft speech can help to de-escalate the situation and find a solution. • When trying

  O Lord, your unfailing love fills the earth; teach me your decrees. Psalms‬ ‭119:64‬ ‭NLT‬‬ In this verse  the psalmist declares the overwhelming presence of God's unfailing love, encompassing the entire earth. This declaration is followed by a heartfelt plea for instruction in God's decrees, reflecting a desire to align one's life with God's divine wisdom and guidance. Themes: • The vastness and abundance of God's love • The importance of seeking God's wisdom and instruction • The connection between God's love and His decrees Key Insights: • God's love is not limited or confined but extends to all corners of the earth. • God's love is not merely a sentiment but a powerful force that shapes and directs His creation. • Seeking God's instruction is an act of love and submission to His authority. Application: • Cultivate an attitude of awe and gratitude for the vastness of God's love. • Recognize the value of God's decrees an

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 1 Timothy‬ ‭2:1‬ ‭NLT‬‬ In this opening verse the apostle Paul provides an essential instruction to Timothy, his protégé and leader of the church in Ephesus. He urges Timothy to prioritize prayer for all people, encompassing a wide range of individuals and groups, from personal acquaintances to those in positions of authority. This emphasis on prayer reflects the heart of God's desire for all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. Themes: The importance of prayer for all people The role of prayer in interceding for others The power of thanksgiving in prayer Key Insights: Prayer is not just a personal act but a communal responsibility. Intercessory prayer involves taking responsibility and advocating for others before God. Giving thanks for others is an expression of faith and gratitude for God's work in their lives.