Tag: jesus

The Study of Job: Post One

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NOTE * As we continue reading the Bible chronologically, we now pause the story of Genesis and step into the book of Job. Job lived long before Abraham and his story gives us an early and powerful look into faith under fire. It’s a book of raw questions, deep suffering, and unwavering trust. It’s a reminder that God is still near even when everything else falls apart. We’ll return to Genesis after completing the book of Job. *

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Job 1-5 

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 1 – When the Faithful Suffer 

Chapter 2 – The Unseen Spiritual Battle, Suffering, and the Ministry of Presence

Chapter 3 – When Grief Speaks 

Chapter 4 – Judging the Suffering: What Eliphaz Got Wrong

Chapter 5 – Misapplied Truth: The Danger of Jumping to Conclusions

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be done in one day or broken up over several days.)

Bible Memory:

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — Romans 12:15 (KJV)

Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

I Do – Watch Me Study

Job Chapter 1 

When the Faithful Suffer 

(Read Job Chapter 1 First)

This chapter opens with a glowing description of Job. He is described as perfect and upright. These words don’t mean sinless, but show us that he was morally innocent, had integrity, feared God, and turned away from evil. Job wasn’t a loud or flashy man, he was quiet and faithful.

He had a large, thriving family and many possessions. He was “the greatest of all the men of the east.” But what stood out most to me was his dedication to God and his children. Job regularly offered burnt sacrifices for his children just in case they had sinned during their feasting.

Then we’re taken into a heavenly scene: the sons of God (likely angels) appear before the Lord and Satan is there, too. When God points out Job’s faithfulness, Satan accuses him. “Job only fears You because You’ve blessed him,” he says. “Take it all away, and he’ll curse You to Your face.”

God permits Satan to test Job. Everything Job owns can be touched, but not Job himself.

Why would God allow this? We’re not given a full answer yet, but we’re invited to wrestle with it. One truth is clear to me…God trusted Job’s heart. He knew Job’s faith wasn’t because he was blessed but because of his relationship with God. 

One day the losses begin. Livestock, servants, and finally his children are all taken away from him. One messenger after another brings devastating news. It reminded me of waves crashing over Job with no time to catch his breath.

And yet… what does Job do?

“Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped…” (Job 1:20)

He grieves. And he worships. He says:

“Naked came I out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return… the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”

That line pierces me. Job recognizes everything he had was a gift, not something he earned. And even in devastation, he doesn’t blame God. He worships Him.

I imagine Job’s heart was absolutely shattered. And I believe God’s heart hurt for him, too. This chapter isn’t just about proving Satan wrong. It’s for us. It’s to show what deep faith looks like when everything else is stripped away.

It makes me ask this question – When life hurts, will I curse or bless? Will I pull away from God or fall at His feet in worship?

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Job Chapter 2 

The Unseen Spiritual Battle, Suffering, and the Ministry of Presence

(Read Job Chapter 2 First) 

As I studied Job 2, I imagined a courtroom or throne room scene where the sons of God and even Satan had to present themselves before God. It gave me chills thinking that even rebellious, fallen beings like Satan must report to God. This reminds me that God is sovereign over all, including the enemy. Satan cannot act outside of God’s permission. He’s on a leash.

God begins the conversation with Satan and points out Job’s unwavering integrity despite his immense suffering. And then we read something sobering:

“…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.” (Job 2:3)

This verse makes it clear God is the one allowing Job’s suffering, not because of punishment, but for purposes Job doesn’t understand. Satan suggests, “Touch his bone and flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.” (v. 5) and God says:

“Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.” (v. 6)

This is complex but important: Satan could not touch Job until God allowed it. God is sovereign even over suffering. It’s Satan who strikes Job in verse 7, but only within God’s limits. That brings both a sobering and comforting truth: God is always in control. 

Verse 8 stopped me in my tracks:

“And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes.”

Job sat in ashes, scraping his sores with broken pottery. He didn’t complain. He just… scraped. This is heart-wrenching.

In the Bible, ashes symbolize grief, loss, humiliation, and mourning. Job was emotionally, spiritually, and physically devastated and yet, he did not sin with his lips.

Then comes his wife’s reaction:

“Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die.”

But Job responds with composure:

“Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” (Job 2:10)

Still, he did not sin with his lips. His pain was real and he must have been confused, but his integrity remained.

What happens next deeply convicted me:

Job’s three friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, set out together when they heard of his suffering. Their initial intentions were good. They didn’t just send a message. They didn’t “like” a sad status. They went. They came to mourn with him and comfort him. 

When they saw him from afar, they didn’t even recognize him. Their response was emotional and cultural:

• They wept loudly

• They tore their clothes

• They threw dust on their heads

• And then, they simply sat with him for seven days…

“…and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.” (Job 2:13)

What an example of the ministry of presence.

Let’s look at how scripture reinforces this:

  • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 

“Two are better than one… For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow…”

  • Romans 12:15 

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.”

  • 2 Corinthians 7:6 

“Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”

Quotes That Echo This Truth:

  • Henri Nouwen

“When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who… simply were there.”

  • C.S. Lewis

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.’”

  • Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together

“The physical presence of other Christians is a source of incomparable joy and strength to the believer.”

My Takeaway

This chapter reminds me that I don’t want to be a shallow friend. I want to show up. Grief isn’t always about words. Sometimes, it’s about just being there and sitting with someone in the ashes of their sorrow. That’s what Job’s friends did at first, and it’s a model of empathy I want to follow.

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

Job Chapter 3 

When Grief Speaks 

(Read Job Chapter 3 First) 

Now Job finally speaks. After seven days of silence and grief, his sorrow spills out in raw, honest words. He doesn’t curse God, but he curses the day he was born. And as we read his cry, it feels like we’re sitting beside him, hearing the sound of deep suffering.

He says, “Let the day perish wherein I was born” (v. 3). He wishes he had never existed. That might sound extreme unless you’ve ever been so overwhelmed that even waking up felt heavy. Job is not being dramatic. He’s heart broken. 

Job asks questions we’ve maybe asked in our own suffering:

• Why was I even born? (v. 11)

• Why did I live just to experience this pain? (v. 16)

• Why is light given to those who are in misery? (v. 23)

He even imagines death as a peaceful place where the tired finally rest, where the hurting are quieted, where the oppressor can’t reach anymore (vv. 17–19). That stood out to me: Job doesn’t want death because he hates life. He longs for rest. He longs for peace.

Have you ever felt that?

We don’t often talk about these places of the soul, but the Bible does. That tells me that God understands our process of grief or confusion. He put Job’s lament in His holy Word because He meets us there.

Let’s reflect together:

Journal or Discussion Prompts:

•When have you felt like Job? Like your heart was so heavy you didn’t have words for it?

•What do Job’s words teach us about how to process grief and pain with God?

•Do you ever feel like you have to hide your hard emotions from God? Why or why not?

•How does Job’s honesty with God change the way we view “strong” faith?

In verse 25, Job says something especially honest:

“For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me.”

That one hit deep. Have you ever feared something happening and then it did? Maybe you’ve been waiting for the other shoe to drop, trying to protect yourself from the “what ifs.” Job reminds us that even those who love and fear the Lord still experience suffering. But God is not gone. He is still with us in the valley.

Reflection:

•What fear have you been carrying that you need to bring into God’s light?

•How can you walk with someone else who is hurting, like Job’s friends did (even if imperfectly)?

•What does this chapter reveal about the importance of showing up for others in their grief, not with answers but just with presence?

Job chapter 3 is a picture of honest grief. It teaches us that lament is not weakness, it’s a way of processing deep pain. Job is still turning to God in faith. He hasn’t walked away. He’s just crying out. And sometimes, that’s the only thing we can do.

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Job Chapter 4 

Judging the Suffering: What Eliphaz Got Wrong

(Read Job Chapter 4 First) 

Now we see Job’s first friend, Eliphaz, speak up.

He starts gently enough by asking permission to speak, but his words soon shift from sympathetic to sharp. Eliphaz reminds Job that he has encouraged many people in the past. He says, “You’ve strengthened weak hands, lifted up those who were falling, and offered wise words to others. But now that trouble has come to you… you’re overwhelmed.”

Then Eliphaz challenges Job’s own beliefs:

“Isn’t your fear of God your confidence? Isn’t your hope based on your righteousness?” (Job 4:6, paraphrased)

And then comes the hard part:

Eliphaz claims that no one is ever destroyed without cause. He suggests that people only suffer when they’ve done something to deserve it. He believes that suffering equals sin and that only the wicked reap sorrow.

At first, it sounds reasonable. After all, the Bible does say we reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7). Sin does bring consequences (Proverbs 13:21). But Eliphaz is missing a deeper spiritual reality.

Eliphaz is wrong in assuming that all pain comes from wrongdoing. He doesn’t know what we as readers know from chapters 1 and 2; That Job’s suffering wasn’t because of sin but because of a greater purpose in the unseen spiritual realm.

God wasn’t punishing Job. He was proving Job’s integrity, strengthening his faith, and displaying His glory.

This teaches us something critical: Not all suffering is punishment.

Yes, there are consequences for sin. No doubt that’s real.

But there’s another truth just as real: Sometimes we suffer for righteousness’ sake. Sometimes the testing of our faith is allowed by God for purposes we cannot yet see.

Let’s look at some scripture on that: 

  1. 1 Peter 3:14 (KJV) 

 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

2. Job 1:8–12 (KJV)

Job suffers not because he sinned, but because God allowed a test of his faith, saying:

   …there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil…

3. James 1:2–4 (KJV)

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

4. Romans 8:28 (KJV)

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

So what do we learn from Eliphaz?

Let’s not be quick to play the judge in someone else’s suffering.

Let’s not assume their hardship is the result of sin or disobedience.

Let’s not speak harsh words when someone needs gentle presence.

Instead, let’s offer prayer and grace.

Let’s be a true friend who sits beside someone in sorrow. 

Later in chapter 4, Eliphaz tells Job a “secret” he claims came from a spirit in the night. He says:

Shall mortal man be more just than God? Shall a man be more pure than his maker? (Job 4:17)

While that statement is technically true (no one is more righteous than God), Eliphaz uses it to insult Job. He implies that Job is arrogant for thinking he doesn’t deserve this suffering and that humans are basically so fragile and lowly and they perish forever without any regarding it. 

But Eliphaz misses something big again: God does care. Deeply. He’s not dismissive of us. We are made in His image. He calls us His children.

Matthew 10:29–31 proves this… “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

And our influence doesn’t die with us. Eliphaz says when a man dies, “his wisdom perishes,” but we know that’s not true either because a godly life leaves a legacy that touches generations.

Reflection Questions:

•Have you ever assumed someone was suffering because of something they did wrong?

•When a friend is hurting, do you tend to give advice or simply be present?

•Have you ever misjudged a situation without knowing the full story?

Let’s take this as a reminder to be the kind of friend who offers compassion before correction, and prayer before opinions.

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You Do – Apply It Personally 

Job Chapter 5 – Misapplied Truth: The Danger of Jumping to Conclusions

Now it’s your turn.

Read through Job Chapter 5 and take some time to think about and journal through the questions below. Ask the Holy Spirit to help show you how to apply them personally to your life.

Summary of Job 5:

In this chapter, Eliphaz continues to speak to Job, assuming that Job’s suffering is the result of hidden sin. He uses a mix of poetic praise for God’s power and harsh assumptions about Job’s guilt. Eliphaz suggests that God disciplines those He loves, which is true in the right context, but wrongly applies it to Job. His words reveal a limited view of suffering and offer both comfort and judgment in the same breath.

It reminds us that even well-meaning people can misapply truth if they don’t understand our full story.

Reflection Questions:

1. Have you ever been misunderstood while going through something          hard?

How did it feel to receive advice that didn’t consider your heart or pain?

2. Have you ever found yourself trying to “fix” someone else’s pain with quick answers or assumptions?

How can we offer comfort without jumping to judgment?

3. In verses 8–16, Eliphaz gives a beautiful description of God’s power, provision, and justice.

Even if his motivation was wrong, what truths about God can you still hold onto?

Example: Verse 13 says, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness…Meaning God sees through human plotting and brings justice in His own way. 

 (1 Cor. 3:19 echoes this truth).

4. Verse 17 talks about God’s correction and discipline.

Can you think of a time when God used hardship to teach or strengthen you?

What’s the difference between punishment and loving discipline?

Eliphaz says, “Happy is the man whom God correcteth,” but in Job’s case, it wasn’t correction. It was a test. God’s discipline comes from love. 

5. Eliphaz assumes that peace, prosperity, and long life are always signs of righteousness.

Do you ever feel tempted to believe that following God should always result in an easy life?

What does the Bible actually say about suffering and growth?

Here are some verses to consider: 

  • Romans 5:3–5
  • James 1:2–4
  • 1 Peter 5:10
  • Isaiah 43:2
  • Psalm 34:18–19
  • 2 Corinthians 4:17
  • Genesis 50:20
  • Philippians 3:10
  • 1 Peter 2:21

6. In verse 1, Eliphaz says, “Call now, if there be any that will answer thee…”

What do you think that says about his attitude toward Job?

I believe it was a sarcastic way of saying, “You’re too far gone and no one will listen to you.” Harsh words when Job needed a friend.

7. In verses 3–5, Eliphaz gives an example of seeing a foolish man thrive and then lose everything. 

I think he’s implying that Job is that foolish man. But he’s wrong, and it shows how dangerous it is to assume someone’s pain means they’re being punished.

After You Reflect:

Eliphaz spoke without compassion. He assumed that Job’s suffering was punishment for sin, and though some of his theology sounded good, it was misapplied. 

But even in his misguided assumptions, we can still learn:

God does bring growth through hardship.

He does rescue the poor, frustrate the wicked, and restore the broken.

But not always on our timeline. 

And not always for the reasons we assume.

God’s comfort often comes not in the removal of pain, but in His presence through it.

So as you consider Job 5, let this be your reminder:

Don’t be too quick to explain someone’s pain. Be quick to sit with them in it. And trust that God knows the whole story even when we don’t.

Key Takeaway: 

Even well-meaning people can say the wrong things when they don’t understand our full story. Eliphaz tried to apply truth without compassion and assumed Job’s suffering was punishment. But Scripture reminds us that not all hardship is the result of sin. God is near in our pain, growing us through it, and working in ways we cannot see. We’re called to trust even when we don’t understand and to offer others grace, not judgment, in their suffering.

Heavenly Father,

We know scripture tell us to rejoice with those who rejoice and to weep with those who weep. Please help us to have more of your heart and compassion for others. Help us to slow down and be present with the people you put in our paths. Thank you for teaching us through Job’s story of what deep faith looks like in blessings and in testing. God, you are sovereign over all and in control of everything and we trust you. Help us not to judge others who are suffering, but offer our prayer and presence instead. Thank you for being near us always and for growing us in times of pain.  

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen 

The Study of Genesis: Week Three

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Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: Genesis Chapters 6-9

Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.

This week’s devotion includes:

Chapter 6 – The Wickedness of the World

Chapter 7 – Trusting God in the Storm 

Chapter 8 – God Remembers Us in the Waiting

Chapter 9 – Blessing Beyond Me 

(Remember: This is a once-a-week devotional that can be done in one day or broken up over several days.)

I Do – Watch Me Study

Did you memorize last week’s Bible verse?

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is such a valuable practice. Since I’ve been memorizing Scripture, I’ve experienced so many moments where God brings a specific verse to mind just when I need it most. It’s amazing how He uses His Word to speak into our lives right where we are.

This Week’s Memory Verse — The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him.  Nahum 1:7 

Genesis Chapter 6 – God’s Covenant with Noah

(Read Genesis Chapter 6 First)

Genesis 6 opens with one of the more mysterious verses in the Bible: “the sons of God” took the daughters of men as wives. I won’t dive into the theological debate on whether the “sons of God” are fallen angels, descendants of Seth, or ancient rulers. But what’s important to see is that God was not pleased with these marriages.

In verse 3, God says His Spirit will not always strive with man. That word “strive” means to plead with or convict. God’s Spirit was actively reaching out to mankind, but humanity was choosing the flesh which we know is weak, sinful, and opposed to God.

Then verse 5 says, “God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” That’s heartbreaking. Imagine living in a world where no one did good. Where evil was always abounding and constant. Can you imagine how on edge and unsafe you’d feel always watching your back and expecting harm?

God saw their hearts and was grieved. But even in His sorrow, He extended grace. He declared that man’s days would be 120 years. This was likely the time He gave for humanity to repent before he would send the flood.

Verses 6 and 7 show us God’s emotional response: “It repented the Lord that he had made man… and it grieved him at his heart.” The word “repented” here means He felt sorrow and deep regret over how far mankind had fallen. God’s heart aches over sin.

But then verse 8: “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.”

Why Noah? Verse 9 tells us he was a just man. He was righteous, obedient, and his heart was fixed on God. He was perfect in his generations, meaning blameless and full of integrity. But most importantly, “Noah walked with God.” That’s the kind of life we’re aiming for and can be achieved with a daily, faithful walk with the Lord.

As I read the rest of the chapter, I was struck by how detailed God’s instructions were. He tells Noah exactly what to do, even the window, which Noah will one day open to release the dove. God knew every part of the storm that was coming, and He equipped Noah with exactly what he’d need to get through it.

The last verse of the chapter is such a simple but beautiful testimony: “Noah did all that God commanded him.” Imagine how hard it was building a massive ark by hand, gathering animals, storing food for people and beasts alike. But Noah obeyed. He trusted. And God carried him through.

We Do – Let’s Study Together

Trusting God in the Storm 

(Read Genesis 7)

Genesis 7 shows us a God who is both just and patient, powerful and precise. As we walk through this chapter together, let’s ask ourselves: Are we listening when God speaks? We may not hear an audible voice like Noah might have, but God still speaks through His Word, through conviction, through other Christians, and through peace or unrest in our spirit. Are we paying attention?

God gave Noah specific instructions down to the number of animals, the timing, and even the waiting period before the flood began. What might God be asking you to prepare for? Sometimes obedience means getting to work before we see the storm clouds.

Let’s pause and reflect:

•Is there something God is prompting you to do, even if it doesn’t make sense right now?

•Do you tend to wait until the storm is right overhead before you listen and obey?

•How do you see God’s mercy in His 7-day delay before judgment began?

Even in judgment, God was measured and merciful. He preserved life, made a covenant, and gave Noah everything he needed to endure. Let’s cling to this truth: God’s plans are not rushed or random. They are perfect, even when we don’t understand them.

Together, let’s pray for the faith to obey, the patience to wait, and the trust to enter when He says, “Come.”

(Read Genesis 8) 

God Remembers Us in the Waiting

Let’s sit with one of the most hope-filled truths in the story of Noah:

“And God remembered Noah…” (Genesis 8:1)

The storm had lasted 150 days. That’s almost half a year of nothing but water, noise, unknowns, and waiting. But when the time was right, God caused a wind to blow, and the waters began to recede. This was God’s mercy in real life. 

Can you think of a time when you were stuck in a long, heavy season? Maybe you felt like the storm would never end. But then one day it did. The heaviness began to lift.  The panic settled. A little peace returned.

That wasn’t coincidence. That was God remembering you.

Let’s also notice the dove. She returned to Noah with an olive leaf, a small symbol of hope. She could’ve kept it, but she brought it back. This made me think of how God sometimes sends someone to us in our hardest moments to say, “You’re not forgotten.”

Take a moment to reflect:

• Has God ever sent someone to encourage you during a storm?

• Has He ever used you to bring hope to someone else?

When Noah left the ark, the very first thing he did was worship. He built an altar and offered a sacrifice of gratitude. And Scripture says the Lord smelled a “sweet savour.”

True worship touches the heart of God.

As we think about this, let’s ask ourselves:

• In my seasons of survival, have I made space to worship?

• When God brings me through, do I stop and say thank You?

Together, let’s commit to remembering what Noah knew:

God is faithful in the flood, we can trust Him in the waiting, and He is worthy of our worship.

You Do – Apply It Personally 

Now it’s your turn.

Read through Genesis 9 and take some time to think about and journal through the questions below. Ask the Holy Spirit to help show you how to apply them personally to your life. 

 1. Legacy of Obedience

“And God blessed Noah and his sons…” (Genesis 9:1)

•Why do you think God chose to bless Noah’s sons even though the text doesn’t speak of their faith?

• What are some ways I can be faithful to God as a parent and hope that my children are blessed by my actions?

After you reflect: 

When I read that God blessed Noah AND his sons, it made me stop and think that my faithfulness, trust, and obedience to God could trickle down and bless my children. Here are some ways that we can be intentional and live this out:

  • Stay rooted in God’s Word and walk in obedience.

• Pray blessings over my children daily.

• Live in a way that my children see what faith looks like.

• Trust that my walk with God impacts them more than I realize.

2. Image-Bearing and Justice

“Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you… even as the green herb have I given you all things.” (Genesis 9:3)

“Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” (Genesis 9:6)

•What does it mean to you personally that you are made in God’s image?

•How might this truth shape the way you see others, especially those who are hard to love?

•Do you carry any unforgiveness or judgment that needs to be surrendered to God’s justice?

After you reflect:

In these verses, we see both the generosity of God and the value He places on life. God gave humans the right to eat all animals but He also set a clear boundary: human life must not be taken. People are sacred to God because we are made in His image. Let’s look at some ways we can apply this to our everyday lives: 

• Treat others with respect, knowing they bear God’s image.

• Teach my children that life is sacred from the womb to the elderly.

• Honor God by how I treat His creation.

 3. God’s Promises and His Sign

“I do set my bow in the cloud…” (Genesis 9:13)

•How do you typically remember God’s promises in your everyday life?

•What has God promised you in His Word that you may have forgotten?

After you reflect:

God gave a rainbow as a sign of His covenant never to destroy the whole earth by flood again. Here are some ways we can be reminded of God’s promises to us. 

•Pay attention to the signs of God’s faithfulness (even in nature.)

•Create my own reminders (journals, scripture cards, or prayers) of God’s  promises to me.

•Teach my children to see God’s hand in everyday beauty.

4. Handle the failures of others with honor, not shame.

“And Shem and Japheth took a garment… and covered the nakedness of their father.” (Genesis 9:23)

•How do you usually respond when someone close to you fails or sins?

•Is there anyone in your life right now you’re tempted to talk about instead    of cover with grace?

•What would it look like to “walk backward” and cover someone with honor and love?

After you reflect:

Ham exposed his father’s shame, but Shem and Japheth honored him by covering him without looking. For us today, this means:

• When someone falls short, choose compassion

• Respond with grace 

• Cover others in love the way Christ covers me.

5. Noah’s Humanity and God’s Mercy

“And Noah lived after the flood three hundred and fifty years… and he died.” (Genesis 9:28–29)

•How do you feel about Noah’s failure being recorded after such great  faithfulness?

•What encouragement does it give you to know that even the righteous  stumble?

•Where do you need to give yourself grace to keep walking forward?

After you reflect:

Noah was righteous, but he wasn’t perfect. His story doesn’t end in failure.

How can I live this out?

• Be humble. Anyone can stumble. 

• Be hopeful that even though I fail, it doesn’t define my future.

• Keep pressing on.

Key Takeaway:

Faithful obedience leaves a legacy, honors God, and invites blessing that reaches beyond you.

Heavenly Father,

I want to thank your Spirit for reaching out to us to do good. You know how weak our flesh is and you continue to help us overcome it’s sinful nature. Your heart aches over sin and yet you still give us grace. Help us to continue in walking daily with you, reading your word, and spending time in prayer. I’m in awe that you know everything about our lives before they even happen and you equip us with exactly what we need. Help us to obey and trust that you will see us through. Thank you for speaking to us, and may we have ears to listen. We know heavy seasons will come in our lives, but we thank you for growing us during those times, remembering us, and eventually lifting our heaviness. Help us to live our lives for you, Lord, and allow those blessings to trickle down to our children. Help us to go through each day treating everyone with honor and respect because we know how important and sacred people are to you because you created us in your own image. Help us to choose compassion, grace, and love in how we treat others and ourselves. Help us to stay humble and obedient. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen 

Week One

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The Study of Genesis: Reflecting God’s Attributes

Devotional Format: I Do – We Do – You Do

Focus: God’s Attributes in Creation (Genesis 1–2)

*Tip: I highly recommend journaling your responses to the questions, prompts, and reflections. Writing them out can help you process more deeply and see how God is working in your life.*

*(Remember) This is a once a week devotional that can be done in one day or broken up over several days.  

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 I Do – Watch Me Study

(Read Genesis Chapter 1 First)

This Week’s Memory Verse – “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” Ephesians 5:1-2

As believers, we aren’t just called to believe in God; We’re called also to become more like him. We could never attain his power or perfection, but we can be transformed to reflecting his attributes. We are called to abide in Christ so that he can be fruitful in our everyday lives. (John 15:4)  This is not about performance. When our hearts are fixed on God and we’re walking so close with him, then we will begin to mirror his character. Since we want to emulate the characteristics of God, let’s pay attention to them as we study today and then look at some practical applications we can use each and every day.  

As we read through the first chapter in Genesis we find that in the beginning, everything was formless, empty and dark. This darkness covered the face of the deep. And then, God spoke.

He didn’t pick up tools or draw a blueprint. He simply spoke. And what wasn’t, suddenly was.

 “Let there be light,” and there it was.

As I study this chapter, I notice several powerful attributes of God:

 1. God is Creative

He desires to make something from nothing. An earth sized blank 3d canvas that he is going to magnificently paint. It’s also going to have moving parts. Its not just a stationary piece that we can look at in awe, but a real life creation that we will all utilize and be a part of. 

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1

Because I am made in His image, creativity is already inside me. He gives ideas, imagination, and inspiration to those who seek Him.

Take a moment to read these verses that showcase God’s creativity:

Genesis 1:1 • Psalm 19:1 • Isaiah 45:12 • Exodus 31:3–5 • Ephesians 2:10

2. God is Powerful

He speaks, and things happen. Not with effort. With authority.

“God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” – Genesis 1:3

Spend some time exploring these scriptures that highlight God’s power: 

Psalm 62:11 • Isaiah 59:1 • Ephesians 3:20 • Revelation 1:18

In Genesis 1, we also see that God didn’t just create the earth, but He gave it the power to keep growing and producing life. He told the land to bring forth plants, and He placed seeds inside the herbs and fruit trees so they could reproduce on their own. He made the animals in the water, in the air, and on land, and gave them the ability to multiply and fill the earth. This shows me that God’s heart was for things to grow, flourish, and continue. He’s the ultimate source of all power, but He chooses to share it with His creation. He wanted the earth to be full of life, full of beauty, and full of His glory. It reminds me that while God is in control of everything, He loves to empower what He’s made to carry out His purpose.

Reflect on these Bible verses that show what God gives power to: 

• The weak – Isaiah 40:29

• His people – Deuteronomy 8:18; Psalm 68:35

• For service and ministry – Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:6–11

• Over the enemy – Luke 10:19

• To reign – Daniel 2:37–38

• To Jesus Christ – Matthew 28:18

• To the Gospel – Romans 1:16

• To endure and overcome – 2 Corinthians 12:9

3. God is Intentional and Ordered

He doesn’t rush. He takes time. Day by day, one act of creation prepares the way for the next.

He gives names, assigns roles, and steps back to admire His work.

“God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.” – Genesis 1:31

In a world that constantly pushes us to hurry from one thing to the next, I love that God models a slower pace. He shows us that it’s okay to take things one day at a time and work with purpose. When we pause to look back at what we’ve done, like He did, we can find joy in our efforts and say, this is good. It’s a beautiful reminder to slow down and be present with what God is doing around us and through us.

More Verses on God’s Order & Wisdom:

Ecclesiastes 3:11 • 1 Corinthians 14:33 • Romans 8:28–29

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We Do – Let’s Study Together

(Read Genesis 2)

Now, we zoom in closer. God isn’t just creating environments; He’s forming people.

He forms man from the dust and breathes life into him. He places him in a garden to live and thrive. Then, He creates woman as a companion, not from new dust but from Adam’s side, showing the unity of relationship.

Let’s explore together:

• What do you see in God’s creation of Adam and Eve?

• What does His care, placement, and attention to detail show us about His nature?

• How does this shape the way you see your own purpose or relationships?

Reflection or Journal Prompt:

Where in your life have you seen God bring beauty from emptiness? How is He forming something in you, day by day?

After you reflect:

Did you notice that God placed Adam in the garden with responsibilities? He wasn’t there to simply exist. He was given a role. Genesis 2:15 says God put him there “to work it and take care of it.” Adam also named every living creature, participating in God’s creation in a meaningful way.

Then, God made a striking statement: “It is not good for the man to be alone.” God created Eve, not as an afterthought, but as a purposeful companion and helper. This tells us that God values both purpose and relationship. We were not designed to live aimlessly or alone.

Let’s reflect:

• Do you know what purpose God has for you right now?

• Are you actively living it out, or are you still seeking it?

• What about the relationships in your life—are you being intentional?

• Are there ways God is nudging you to invest deeper or forgive more freely?

God created us to have connections with Him, with others, and with meaningful work. Let’s ask Him to help us live purposefully and love intentionally.

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You Do – Apply It Personally

Now it’s your turn.

Read through Genesis 1–2 again slowly. As you read, ask yourself:

• What do I learn about who God is?

• What attribute of God am I most drawn to right now—His creativity, His power, or His intentionality?

• How can I reflect that part of God in my own life today?

Write it down. Pray through it. Talk to God because He’s your Creator and your loving Father.

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 A Final Word

The same God who hovered over the dark void now hovers over your life. He still speaks light into darkness. He still forms purpose from dust. 

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Key Takeaway

God is not a distant Creator. He is an intentional, present, powerful Father still at work in you.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for abiding in us. Help us to draw closer to You by immersing ourselves in Your Word, learning more about who You are, and letting Your character shine through our lives.

We praise You for the ways You’ve revealed Yourself in these first two chapters of Genesis as creative, powerful, orderly, and wise. Thank You for making us in Your image and for giving us purpose.

Lord, help us to walk in that purpose with confidence and joy. Teach us to honor You with our gifts, our time, and the relationships You’ve placed in our lives.

Strengthen our connections with others, and give us wisdom, humility, and grace in how we love and serve them.

Draw us closer to You each day, and may our lives reflect Your goodness.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

A Journey Through the Bible: Weekly Devotionals Begin Soon

brookepacheco5

Hey Friends! 

I’m so glad you’re here! One of my greatest passions is studying God’s Word, and I want to invite you to come alongside me as I journey through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. This devotion series is all about digging into scripture, chapter by chapter, and discovering how God’s truth speaks into our everyday lives. Whether you are new to Bible study or have walked this path for years, my prayer is that we grow together in faith, understanding, and grace. 

God’s word is alive and active. It’s the tool He uses to speak to our hearts, guide our lives, and teach us how to be more like Him. As we go through this Bible study, let’s read the stories but focus on what God is teaching us that we can apply to our own story. 

When I taught elementary school, we used a simple process to help my students grow: I do it first, then we do it together, then they try it on their own (you do), and finally we check in to see what they learned.  

I believe we can approach God’s Word the same way. In this devotional series, I’ll walk you through how I read and reflect on Scripture. Then I’ll invite you to study alongside me, reflect on it yourself, and ask how it’s changing your life. 

We’re not just learning facts, we’re becoming more like Jesus, one step at a time. 

A note about this devotion journey – These devotions will be posted once a week, so you can move through them at your own pace. You may choose to do it all in one sitting or broken up over several days. Each devotion is built to help you slow down, go deeper in the word, and truly meet with the Lord. 

Materials: A Bible. I use the King James Version. You will also need a fresh new journal set aside for this devotional journey. Throughout each week’s post, you’ll find questions, reflection prompts, and scripture to memorize and reflect on. Having a dedicated place to write your thoughts, prayers, what you’ve learned, and how you wish to apply it to your life will help you engage more deeply and make the most of each week’s devotion. 

Each Week’s Devotion Will Include:

•Scripture Reading – A passage from the Bible. We are reading through the Bible in    chronological order. 

•Verse to Memorize – One key verse to hide in your heart and meditate on throughout the week.

•I Do Portion of Study – Watch how I study the passage and draw out God’s character, themes, and application.

•We Do Portion of Study  – Let’s walk through the text together with questions and insights that lead to discussion and reflection.

•You Do Portion of Study – A time for you to study on your own, consider thoughtful prompts, and respond to what God is showing you.

•Final Word – A short devotional wrap-up to encourage and summarize the week’s focus.

•Closing Prayer – A heartfelt prayer to end your time with the Lord.

•Journal Prompts – These will be scattered throughout the devotion. Space to reflect, write, and respond to God personally. 

I’m so excited to begin this study with you! It’s meant to not only grow your understanding of Scripture but also to help you apply what you’re learning to your daily walk with Christ. Whether you’re just starting out or have studied the Bible for years, there’s room here for you to grow. 

Mark Your Calendar!

Week One of the Bible study will be posted on Monday, June 9, 2025. A new devotional will be shared every Monday, so you can start each week with Scripture, reflection, and encouragement. I can’t wait to grow in the Word together with you!

With Love, 

Brooke