“E quelli che passavano di là lo ingiuriavano, scuotendo il capo e dicendo: ‘Tu che distruggi il tempio e in tre giorni lo ricostruisci, salva te stesso! Se tu sei Figlio di Dio, scendi giù dalla croce!’”. 📖 Matteo 27:39-40
—
💌 Apri la porta del tuo cuore
🗣 Speaker: Alessia Zagara Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-FXf1CytrI
Living in the Land
Key Thought. With the land conquered, Israel started to unite in their identity. The tribes that had their land on the other side of the Jordan were allowed to go back to their land and built an altar to remember their commitment to one another..
December 13, 2025
1. Have a volunteer read Joshua 22:5-20.
- Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
- What do these verses tell us about the commitment of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half tribe of Manasseh
- Personal Application: How would our relationships in the church be transformed if we prayed for each other more than we do? Share your thoughts.
- Case Study: One of your relatives states, “Wasn’t building an altar of remembrance a type of idolatry? Doesn’t the commandment tell us not to make statues, images, and stuff like that? Why can paintings or statues of Jesus or other humans be dangerous?” How would you respond to your relative?
2. Have a volunteer read Joshua 22:13-15.
- Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
- Why do the Israelites choose Phineas as the head of the delegation to the 2 ½ tribes?
- Personal Application: How do we keep out past negative experiences from causing us to mistreat or shun positive experiences with others in the present? Share your thoughts.
- Case Study: One of your friends states, “I think many people have had bad experiences in their lives and it affects how they react or overreact to similar situations today? Most people jump to conclusions instead of having the grace and foresight to patiently listen to others before jumping to conclusions. We have one mouth which the Bible says is full of deadly poison, and two ears to listen with. We should listen more before we speak..” How would you respond to your friend?
3. Have a volunteer read Joshua 22:21-29, Proverbs 15:1.
- Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
- What can we learn from the response of the eastern tribes?
- Personal Application: How do you handle false accusations? Think of some principles that should guide your attitude in these situations. Share your thoughts.
- Case Study: One of your neighbors states, “When I am accused of something, I just consider the source. I’m a much better person than those who might be jealous or hateful. I don’t even need to acknowledge such nonsense. I just ignore them.? ” How would you respond to your neighbor?
4. Have a volunteer read Joshua 22:30-34.
- Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
- How does this incident give us insight into conflict resolution and ways of helping keep unity in the church?
- Personal Application: Why is it important to listen to the opinions of others rather than just try to ramrod your opinion through without “wasting time” in debate? Share your thoughts.
- Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.
(Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared. ”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).
(0)📜BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS | 07.12.2025 | 🌾Ruth Chapter 3 – Ruth on the threshing floor – Trust, courage and divine guidance
7 december 2025
BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Daily Bible Reading
Ruth 3 – Ruth on the threshing floor – Trust, courage and divine guidance
God’s plans unfold through obedience and integrity
Read online here
Introduction
Ruth 3 is a decisive turning point in Ruth’s story. The young Moabite woman follows the bold plan of her mother-in-law Naomi and, in an unusual yet deeply significant night, meets Boaz – the man who will change her future. This chapter not only shows the cultural customs of ancient Israel, but also reveals God’s quiet yet powerful guidance in the lives of those who are faithful to Him. Ruth’s character, her courage, and her purity stand at the center of this passage. It is about trust – in God, in wisdom, and in making the right decisions at the right time.
══════════════════════════
Commentary
Naomi, the wise and caring mother-in-law, realizes that the time has come to provide Ruth with security and a home. In her love for Ruth, she plans something daring: Ruth is to go by night to Boaz on the threshing floor – not to seduce him, but to present herself to him in a respectful and symbolic way as one in need of a kinsman-redeemer.
Ruth follows her advice. She bathes, anoints herself, and dresses properly – signs of dignity and hope – and sets out to the threshing floor, where Boaz is guarding the harvested barley. In a quiet, reverent scene, she lies down at his feet during the night – a cultural sign of submission and a request for protection and redemption.
Boaz wakes up startled, but he recognizes Ruth’s purity. Her request that he spread his cloak over her is a symbolic act: she is asking him to take on the role of the redeemer. Boaz is moved by Ruth’s faithfulness – she could have gone after younger men, but she chooses responsibility and the path of honor.
Yet Boaz is an honest man: he knows that another kinsman-redeemer is more closely related than he is. Even so, he promises to act the very next day, whether it will be that other man or himself. Before Ruth leaves early in the morning, he generously gives her barley – not as payment, but as a sign of care and as a message for Naomi.
When Ruth returns home, she tells Naomi everything. Naomi listens carefully and speaks wisely: “Be still, my daughter.” Now is the time to wait and to trust. Boaz will act – and God is at work.
══════════════════════════
Summary
Ruth follows Naomi’s counsel and meets Boaz at night on the threshing floor. With a respectful and courageous gesture, she asks him to take on the responsibility of the kinsman-redeemer. Boaz recognizes Ruth’s character and promises to take care of the matter. Even though another redeemer is closer in line, Boaz is willing to stand up for Ruth. The story ends with hope and the expectation that God will guide everything for good.
══════════════════════════
Message for us today
Ruth chapter 3 teaches us that God often works through quiet, courageous decisions – not always through spectacular miracles. Ruth’s obedience, humility, and courage show how God sees and honors the heart. Naomi’s wisdom and Boaz’s integrity are also role models for real trust, respect, and responsibility. In a world full of uncertainty, we can learn to trust God’s timing, to listen to wise counselors, and to act with dignity even in challenging situations.
══════════════════════════
Thought to ponder
“Whom do I follow when it comes to making important decisions – fear or trust?”
Ruth dared to take a step into the unknown, but not blindly. She trusted God, Naomi’s advice, and the integrity of Boaz. We too repeatedly stand at thresholds that require courage and faith. The question is: do we wait like Ruth for God’s guidance – or do we act on our own impulse without His light?
~~~~~~~~~~
7 – 9 December 2025
BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
Weekly Reading – Spirit of Prophecy
Ellen White | Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 47
League With the Gibeonites | Faithfulness despite deception – God’s guidance in human mistakes
Read online here
Blog 1
Deception in ancient Israel – The covenant with the Gibeonites
When lies protect, but truth saves
Introduction
The story of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 is both a striking warning and a testimony of grace and faithfulness. Through clever deception, these inhabitants of Canaan obtain a peace treaty with Israel. Although the covenant was made under false pretenses, Israel remains faithful to its word. This event confronts us with questions of truth, honor, and the meaning of loyalty – even when we have been deceived.
══════════════════════════
Commentary
Israel’s return to Gilgal marks a time of transition and reorientation. Exactly in this period of rest, a seemingly harmless group of foreigners appears — ragged, hungry, and carrying worn-out wineskins. They convincingly claim to have come from a distant land to make peace, inspired by the mighty works God had done for Israel.
Even though initial doubts arise, the decisive step is missing: asking counsel from God. The covenant is made.
Only three days later, the Israelites discover the deception — the Gibeonites live right in their midst. The outrage is great, and the leaders face criticism. Yet they do not cancel the treaty — they had sworn in the name of the Lord. The Gibeonites are not destroyed but become woodcutters and water carriers for the sanctuary.
Despite their deception, they show humility, abandon their idolatry, and submit to the worship of the true God. The truth comes to light — not through bloodshed, but through clear order and grace.
══════════════════════════
Summary
Through cunning deception, the Gibeonites secure their lives. Israel is deceived, yet remains faithful to its oath. The Gibeonites become servants in the sanctuary — a sign of God’s grace despite human error.
══════════════════════════
Message for us today
God takes our words seriously — whether in vows, marriage promises, or everyday relationships. Faithfulness matters more than advantage. This story reminds us that we should act with integrity even when others have deceived us.
══════════════════════════
Thought to ponder
How do I treat my word? Am I willing to keep promises, even when it costs me something?
⚓HEART ANCHOR | 07.12.2025 | 8.Visions & Trust – When God Speaks Through Dreams | 🛡️DANIEL – STRONG IN FAITH. FAITHFUL IN THE FIRE | Youth Devotional
7 December 2025
Daniel – Strong in Faith. Faithful in the Fire
Devotions from the life of a young man of conviction
8. Visions & Trust – When God Speaks Through Dreams
Why God still speaks today – and how we can listen
Daily Verse
“I, Daniel, saw a vision by night… And behold, the Most High is Judge.”
– Daniel 7:13–14
────────────────────────────────
Introduction: When God speaks – in images
God is not silent.
He speaks – through His Word, through our conscience, through people, situations, and sometimes also in images that are bigger than words: visions, dreams, impressions.
Daniel lived his everyday life with God, but there were moments when God pulled back the curtain of the invisible world a little. He didn’t only show Daniel wisdom for problems in the court, but insight into times Daniel himself would never live to see.
Visions that stretched beyond the limits of his present day.
────────────────────────────────
Devotion – When night visions open heaven
It was night, perhaps the hour when everything is quiet, the city sleeps, and voices are silent. Daniel lay down to rest, without knowing that God was about to show him the course of history.
He had grown older. The years at court were behind him, the drama of the lions’ den, the intrigues, the changes of kingdoms. But God was not finished with him yet.
Daniel had previously seen how God spoke to others through dreams – Nebuchadnezzar’s restless nights, the strange image of the great statue, interpreted by God’s Spirit. But this time was different.
This time the visions were for Daniel himself.
The Bible describes this scene with just a few words, yet you can feel the tension:
“I, Daniel, had a vision by night…”
What he saw was no small impression. It was a powerful story told in images.
He saw dark water, boiling like an agitated world.
He saw four mighty beasts rise out of the sea – each one stood for a kingdom, for power, for human history in its harshness and transience.
These images were not pleasant. They were not gentle. They were threatening. Mighty. Untamed.
Daniel’s heart beat fast. He did not understand everything, but he knew: God is showing me something real, something serious.
And in the middle of these restless scenes came another image.
Daniel saw a throne.
Not in a hall of gold, but in an atmosphere of light.
He describes the one seated on it as “the Ancient of Days” – a picture of God Himself: powerful, untouchable, sovereign. It is a throne image that later appears again in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation.
Then, suddenly, between the beasts, between the kingdoms, between the chaotic images, another figure appeared:
“One like a Son of Man, coming with the clouds.”
This expression is one of the most important in the entire Old Testament. Daniel saw someone who looked human – yet carried divine power.
He saw Jesus.
Centuries before He was born.
Daniel did not see Bethlehem. Not Nazareth. Not the cross.
He saw heaven.
He saw the coming of the eternal King.
To the “Son of Man” was given power, glory, and a kingdom that will never end.
All peoples, nations, and languages would serve Him.
His rule would never be destroyed.
And that changed Daniel.
Daniel lived under a king who thought he was powerful.
He saw kingdoms come and go.
He experienced the brutality of world politics firsthand.
But now he knew:
The Most High is Judge.
Not Babylon, not Persia, not any king who signs a law. God rules.
This vision did not make Daniel proud – it made him calm.
Even if Daniel did not fully understand the images, he was sure of one thing:
There is One who holds everything in His hands.
History has a purpose.
Justice will come.
And every human throne is only temporary.
This was not religious theory.
It was a nighttime encounter he never forgot.
────────────────────────────────
What does this mean for us?
Sometimes God does not speak to give us solutions for tomorrow, but to give us a glimpse of something “bigger than now.”
We see only our daily life, our worries, our world – but God sees time differently.
Sometimes He shows us something that says:
“I have the overview.”
Not every dream is from God.
Not every image carries truth.
But Daniel shows: God can speak. And when He speaks, it changes the way we see the world.
────────────────────────────────
What we can learn from Daniel
-
God still speaks today – but we must be willing to listen.
-
Visions are not meant to confuse us, but to stabilize us.
-
God’s perspective takes away the power of fear.
-
People plan, kings rule, but God decides.
────────────────────────────────
Practical steps for today
-
Ask God to show you His perspective – not just His answers.
-
In the evening, take time to become quiet and listen intentionally.
-
Write down impressions, dreams, or thoughts and examine them later in peace.
-
Read Daniel 7 and ask yourself: What does this show me about God’s greatness today?
────────────────────────────────
Questions to reflect on
-
Are there areas of my life where I only see the “now” and ignore God’s “later”?
-
How does the certainty that God is Judge change my decisions today?
-
Where do I need a new perspective from God?
────────────────────────────────
Prayer
Lord,
let me hear when You speak.
Open my eyes to Your perspective and my mind to Your truth.
Take away my fear of the unknown and show me that You lead history.
Speak into my heart – through Your Word, through thoughts, through dreams,
and make me secure in Your presence.
Amen.
────────────────────────────────
Key thought of the day
God does not give visions to make us curious,
but to show us that He is above everything – today, tomorrow, and forever.
────────────────────────────────
LumenCorde | Daily light for a living soul.
144,000 & the Great multitude: Why two Names | Pr. Michael Pedrin
144,000 & the Great multitude: Why two Names — Pr. Michael Pedrin THANK YOU for your continued financial support of our Media Ministries. Please donate by visiting "https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANB4RC/envelope/start" and select “Media Ministries”. Connect With Us
X: RemnantSDA
Facebook: RemnantSDAchurch.org
Instagram: RemnantSDAchurch Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rp7122Tkhk
“Lord We Praise You” by Jemuel Anderson, Crystal Syrrakos, Aleitha Morgan, Laurin Wiggins
"Lord, We Praise You" is a vibrant celebration of God’s goodness and faithfulness. With soaring vocals and unified hearts, Jemuel Anderson, Crystal Syrrakos, Aleitha Morgan, and Laurin Wiggins lead this powerful anthem of praise that lifts the name of Jesus high. 🎶 This energizing performance from the General Conference Session is a joyful offering of worship. Press play and join in giving God the praise He deserves! SUBSCRIBE to the official Seventh-day Adventist Church channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AdventistOrgChurch 🌐 Visit: https://adventist.org Find us on social media by following the links below: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAdventistChurch Twitter: https://x.com/adventistchurch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adventistchurch Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YPG5eA4cca8
Sunday: Commitment
Daily Lesson for Sunday 7th of December 2025
Read Joshua 22:1-8. What do these verses tell us about the commitment of the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh?
Joshua affirms that the tribes from the other side of the Jordan have fully satisfied the obligations set out by Moses and himself, which meant a significant dedication to, and sacrifice on behalf of, Israel’s common cause. They fought alongside their brothers for “many days,” which in reality meant about six to seven years (compare with Joshua 11:18, Joshua 14:10, Deuteronomy 2:14). Their wives and children were left at home, on the east side of Jordan, yet they decided to fight loyally along with their brothers, facing the threat of injury and death in war.
Image © Erik Stenbakken at Goodsalt.com
These verses indirectly underline the importance of the unity of the nation and that of the land. They also prepare the way for the ensuing story, which is ultimately about unity. Will the Israelite tribes stay united, despite the strong natural border that the Jordan forms between them? Will they allow geography to set its mark on their national identity, or will they let their common worship of the only God keep them as His chosen nation, united and strong under His theocratic guidance?
Joshua explains the only way that such fidelity has been possible: they did not serve their fellow Israelites but Yahweh Himself, who charged them with their mission.
We find this same principle in the New Testament. The apostle Paul admonished Christians to render their service as if they were working for God and not only for human beings (see Ephesians 6:7, Colossians 3:23, 1 Thessalonians 2:4). What higher calling is there than working for, ultimately, the Creator of the cosmos?
In everyday life, we often face challenges and difficulties that can easily discourage us and make us want to give up the fight. That’s easy, at times, to do. Yet, we can call upon the power of the Lord, who promises to be with us and enables us to do what He asks of us. If we keep our higher calling before us, we can be motivated to press on ahead, despite the inevitable challenges and discouragements that are part of our fallen existence here.
|
Joshua 22:5-6 reports that Joshua appealed to the departing tribes to remain faithful to the Lord, and then he blessed them. How would our relationships in the church be transformed if we prayed for each other more than we do? |
(2)📘Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley | Lesson 11.Living in the Land | LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA
Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley
Lesson 11.Living in the Land
Separated yet united – Faith overcomes boundaries
Introduction
Lesson 11 deals with the return of the eastern tribes after fulfilling their military duty and the resulting tension between the tribes of Israel. Although they were geographically separated, spiritual unity remained essential. A misunderstanding about an altar threatened to tear the community apart, but the calm and wise actions of both sides preserved peace. This story emphasizes how important communication, trust, and mutual understanding are for living together as God’s people. It also shows that true unity is not based on physical closeness but on shared faithfulness to God. The lesson challenges us to resolve conflicts in the light of faith and to actively protect the unity of the church.
Content:
11.1 Commitment
Faithfulness in service – Unity through dedication
The Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh showed remarkable commitment by faithfully fighting alongside their brothers, even though their families lived far away on the other side of the Jordan. Their service was not superficial, but lasted many years and involved personal sacrifice. This dedication shows that true service comes from faithfulness to God, not just loyalty to people. Joshua praised their behavior and reminded them to continue following the Lord in the future. Their story demonstrates how spiritual unity can overcome geographical boundaries. If we were to stand together and pray with the same attitude today, relationships within the church could grow stronger and deeper.
11.2 Accusations…
Quick judgment – The danger of misunderstanding
The western tribes accused the eastern tribes of turning away from the common faith by building an altar. This accusation was based on an assumption, since the purpose of the altar was unclear and no direct communication had taken place. The conflict shows how quickly a lack of information can lead to mistrust and division. The serious question arises whether the eastern tribes should still be considered part of Israel – a sign of deep tension. Jesus and Paul warn us not to judge others too quickly, because we often do not know their true motives. Even today, misunderstandings in the church are common when we jump to conclusions instead of seeking conversation.
11.3 Haunted by the past
Carrying history – Lessons from earlier failures
The choice of Phinehas as leader of the delegation was no coincidence – he had already acted decisively during the crisis at Baal-Peor and was known for his zeal for God’s honor. His past shaped his understanding of the serious danger of possible idolatry. The fear of falling back into old sins caused the western tribes to sound the alarm immediately. Yet despite serious accusations, they chose the path of clarification before acting. This shows how important it is to distinguish between justified concern and premature judgement. God’s grace helps us learn from the past without treating others unjustly – because healing does not mean forgetting, but acting more maturely in the light of earlier experiences.
11.4 A gentle answer
Responding with kindness – Unity instead of escalation
The eastern tribes did not react to harsh accusations with anger or defensive emotion, but with a calm, respectful, and deeply faithful explanation. Their response was marked by humility, clarity, and an appeal to God’s truth — a strong example of Proverbs 15:1 in action. Instead of adding fuel to the fire, their thoughtful reaction brought peace into a potentially destructive situation. Especially impressive is that they revealed the motive behind their actions: not rebellion, but a desire for spiritual connection with the rest of Israel. Their answer brought not only clarity, but reconciliation and joy on both sides. This example shows how with gentleness and trust in God we can turn false accusations into an opportunity to strengthen community.
11.5 Conflict resolution
Peace through conversation – Unity through understanding
The incident in Joshua 22 shows clearly how important open and respectful communication is for resolving conflicts. Instead of acting immediately, the Israelites sought dialogue — and thus prevented a tragic civil war. The willingness of both sides to listen, clarify misunderstandings, and be guided by God’s truth led to reconciliation. Particularly exemplary is the humble joy of the western tribes when they realized their mistake — a strong sign of spiritual maturity. The unity of the people was preserved not through structure, but through shared faith and mutual trust. Today, this approach remains a model: talk instead of judge, understand instead of condemn — and give God the glory when peace becomes possible.
11.6 Summary
Preserving unity – Despite boundaries and misunderstandings
Lesson 11 shows how important commitment, trust, and good communication are for unity among God’s people. The eastern tribes faithfully fulfilled their obligation and were praised by Joshua. But when they built an altar, a serious misunderstanding arose that almost led to war. The western tribes reacted with concern, but sought dialogue instead of acting hastily. The kind and honest response of the eastern tribes resolved the situation and led to true reconciliation. This story teaches us how misunderstandings can be overcome through patience, humility, and the pursuit of peace — a principle that still applies to the church today.
Must Adventist Today Be Fair and Balanced?
I often get notes from people who say, “Adventist Today only tells one side of the story. You should be fair, and tell both sides.” So every time Adventist Today (AT) says that we Adventists should be more biblical, we should have a balancing article arguing for more Ellen White. Or every time we protest […] Source: https://atoday.org/adventist-today-needs-to-be-fair-and-balanced/
God First: Your Daily Prayer Meeting #1197
Bible verse of the day: “If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” – 1 John 5:14 Welcome to our Daily Prayer Meeting!
This is a safe space where you are seen, heard, and prayed for. Start your day in God's presence—every day at 8AM ET, we share a short devotional from God's Word and lift your prayer requests to Him. You're not alone! Our prayer team is here to intercede with you and for you. Whether you need prayer, celebrate a breakthrough, or start your day with Jesus, you're in the right place. Share your prayer requests or testimonies of praise here: https://wkf.ms/3DBuapQ Engage with us in the comments:
• How can we pray for you today?
• Where are you watching from?
• What are you thankful for? How has God answered your prayers?
Let’s grow together in faith, hope, and love—one prayer at a time. Don’t forget to subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a prayer. 🔔 Share this video with someone who needs hope or tag a loved one who needs encouragement today. Today’s Message: Pr Abraham Bakari The Seventh-day Adventist Church has been an established denomination since 1863. It is a global Christian family with over 21 million members who hold the Bible as the ultimate authority. We are believers committed to helping people understand the Bible to find freedom, healing, and hope in Jesus. Want to learn more about the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Visit our website at: https://www.adventist.org/ Find us on social media by following the links below:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/theadventistchurch
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/adventistchurch
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/adventistchurch 👉 Want more prayer moments?
Watch our full playlist of daily prayer videos here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-k2Gb-DBYo–V8axD7iFUL6TFEckrhxv&si=vIljgfwrSZN6iJR2 GodFirst, DailyPrayer, PrayerMeeting, ChristianPrayer, MorningDevotional, HopeInJesus, BibleVerseOfTheDay, PrayerRequest, FaithCommunity, SeventhDayAdventist Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3twucrUGmg
- « Previous Page
- 1
- …
- 99
- 100
- 101
- 102
- 103
- …
- 4842
- Next Page »
