Reading and Understanding Your Bible
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Audio By Carbonatix
Lessons from the Daily Bible Podcast
Three years ago, my friend Michelle and I started the Daily Bible Podcast. I had been reading through the Bible for years, and I wanted to encourage others to do the same. But here’s the truth—I was far from an expert. I loved reading the Bible, but I didn’t always understand it. Some parts, like Job and Revelation, honestly scared me! But you know what I discovered? I can learn. The more time I spent in God’s Word, the more everything started to click into place.
Takeaway #1: Nearly everything awesome takes longer than you think.
Just get started and don’t worry about the clock. Reading and understanding the Bible isn’t about speed—it’s about consistency. Give yourself grace, and remember that spiritual growth happens one step at a time.
The truth is, committing to a daily Bible podcast was a huge commitment. Each of our podcast episodes ran about 20-25 minutes. Some days, I had hours to dive deep into Scripture, studying and reflecting. Other days? Honestly, I was skimming and jotting down quick notes. But here’s the beautiful part—God always showed up. As Michelle and I talked, we found that He met us right where we were, filling in the gaps with His grace.
Takeaway #2: Adaptability is the way of consistency.
As I learned from Author James Clear: In theory, consistency is about being disciplined, determined, and unwavering. But in reality? It’s about being flexible. Don’t have much time? Scale it down. Feeling overwhelmed? Do what you can. The important thing is to keep showing up. Let your habits adjust to life’s demands, because real consistency is found in persistence, not perfection.
Looking back, were Michelle and I fully prepared to take on a daily podcast? Nope. But that’s okay. We showed up, and guess what? We did it!
Marissa Mayer, a former Google executive and Yahoo CEO, once said:
“I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that’s how you grow—when there’s that moment of, ‘Wow, I’m really not sure I can do this,’ and you push through.”
(Source: MAKERS Interview)
The same is true for reading and understanding your Bible. You may not feel ready. You may feel overwhelmed. But friend, just start. Dive in, stay flexible, and trust that God will meet you exactly where you are. He’s not looking for your perfect track record—He’s looking for your presence.
So, whether you’re opening your Bible for the first time or diving into those challenging books like Job or Revelation, remember this: growth happens when you show up. Keep turning the pages, and you’ll find that God is speaking—one day, one verse, one moment at a time.
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
January 27
Job 30-31
From Dust to Hope
In chapters 30 and 31, we find Job in the depths of anguish, a point where his trials seem to reach their pinnacle. His experiences, encapsulated in these chapters, offer profound insights into the nature of suffering, integrity, and faith.
Job’s Descent into Anguish
In Job 30, we witness a man who has faced immense trials and now finds himself in deep despair. “My honor has blown away in the wind, and my prosperity has vanished like a cloud” (Job 30:15), he laments. This vivid imagery of loss and disintegration captures the essence of Job’s plight. He feels reduced to nothing, likening himself to dust and ashes amidst his suffering (Job 30:19). This metaphor resonates deeply, especially when we consider the historical context of the Holocaust, where many endured unimaginable suffering in concentration camps like Mauthausen, often finding themselves literally in dust and ashes.
Job’s Integrity Amidst Suffering
Despite his dire circumstances, Job maintains his integrity. In chapter 31, he continues to assert his innocence, adamant that he does not deserve the calamities that have befallen him. This steadfastness in the face of unjust suffering is a testament to Job’s character. It’s essential to remember that, as stated in Job 1, God considered Job “the finest man in all the earth,” a man of complete integrity.
The Wrestling of Job’s Heart
As readers, we are drawn into the emotional and spiritual wrestling in Job’s heart. His journey through suffering allows us to reflect on our trials. It’s almost as if we’re cheering for Job, encouraging him to hold on for one more day amidst his despair. This aspect of Job’s story is relatable to anyone who has faced trials and struggled to maintain hope.
Echoes of Christ in Job’s Suffering
Job’s experiences and expressions of feeling abandoned by God mirror the anguish Christ experienced. The parallels between Job’s cries of being mocked and ignored by God and Jesus’s agonizing prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross are striking. These moments in Scripture highlight the depth of human despair that can be experienced even by the most righteous.
The Poetry of Job’s Suffering
The poetic elements in Job’s story, like the alliteration and wordplay in the original Hebrew text, add layers of depth to his suffering. These literary devices underscore Job’s profound loss and desolation.
The Universal Experience of Suffering
Job’s story is a powerful reminder that suffering is a common human experience. We all face “desolation and desolateness,” as Job did. We encounter people who, like Job, are grappling with profound loss and pain. What these individuals need from us is not judgment or mockery, as Job received from his friends, but compassion, understanding, and a willingness to listen.
Word of the Day: Dust
Definition: Earth or other matter in fine, dry particles; a low or humble condition.
The phrase “dust in the wind,” is reminiscent of both Job’s plight and the biblical wisdom literature. Our responses to suffering, integrity, and compassion can leave an enduring legacy. Job’s journey, marked by unparalleled suffering, also highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for hope amidst despair.
The Hope Beyond the Ashes
Job’s narrative offers a glimpse of the hope that lies beyond the dust and ashes. Job’s unwavering integrity, despite his circumstances, challenges us to hold onto our faith and values, even when the path seems darkest.
Amidst our own ‘dust and ashes,’ may we find the strength to offer compassion and understanding to those who suffer. Our material wealth or earthly honors do not define our legacy, but our love, truth, and faith do. Just as the veterans of Mauthausen wished for their stories of suffering and resilience to be remembered and learned from, we too can contribute to a legacy that outlasts our physical existence.
January 28
Job 32-34
The Challenge of True Listening
In the saga of Job, chapters 32 to 34 introduce us to a new character, Elihu. His entrance marks a pivotal moment in the narrative. These chapters continue the exploration of suffering and divine justice and delve into the art of listening and understanding.
Elihu: The Scribe Turned Speaker
Elihu, believed by some scholars to have been a scribe, initially observes the conversations between Job and his friends silently. However, he reaches a point where he feels compelled to speak out. In Job 32:2-5, Elihu expresses his frustration with both Job for not admitting his sins and with Job’s friends for failing to provide convincing answers. Elihu’s outburst, “I am like a cask of wine without a vent,” symbolizes his overwhelming urge to share his thoughts.
Elihu’s Perspective on Divine Communication
Elihu offers a unique take on how God communicates with humans. He suggests that God uses various methods, including discipline through pain and messages through angels or mediators. In Job 33:24, Elihu speaks of a gracious entity who can rescue from death, a concept that resonates with Messianic expectations. This idea of a Mediator who protects from death and offers redemption is profound and foreshadows later theological concepts.
Elihu’s Accusations Against Job
While Elihu provides some encouraging insights, such as God’s willingness to accept and restore those who pray to Him (Job 33:26), he also challenges Job’s attitude. In Chapter 34, Elihu accuses Job of arrogance and rebellion against God. This accusation seems harsh, especially given Job’s persistent integrity throughout his trials.
Reevaluating Elihu’s Role
Initially, one might perceive Elihu as a wise and understanding friend, but a closer examination of his words reveals a complex character. Like Job’s other friends, Elihu believes he knows God and His ways. He speaks truths about God’s omnipresence and power, yet his approach to Job is not entirely devoid of judgment.
The Art of Listening According to Elihu
Elihu’s repeated plea, “Listen to me,” highlights the importance of active listening. His intervention reminds us of the power of truly hearing and understanding others rather than simply waiting for our turn to speak. This is a vital lesson in any discourse, especially in matters of spiritual and emotional significance.
Parenting and Listening: Lessons from Elihu
Good parenting advice often emphasizes the importance of listening – truly listening – to children. Stephen Covey’s quote, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply,” is particularly relevant here. Elihu’s and Job’s friends’ failure to genuinely listen to Job underscores this point. They were more focused on providing answers than understanding Job’s heart.
Word of the Day: Listen
Definition: To attend closely for the purpose of hearing; to pay attention; heed; obey.
Listening is an active skill that requires focus and empathy. It involves more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions and thoughts behind them. True listening is other-focused, characterized by asking questions like “tell me more about this” or seeking deeper understanding of the person’s experiences.
Elihu’s Prophecy and the Power of Listening
Despite Elihu’s shortcomings in fully grasping Job’s situation, his speech does contain elements of prophecy, particularly regarding the concept of a Mediator. This suggests that even in imperfect communication, elements of truth and insight can emerge. Elihu’s ability to pause and listen to God allowed him to convey this significant prophecy.
Conclusion: Embracing the Art of Listening
As we reflect on Elihu’s role in Job 32-34, we are reminded of the complexities of human communication and the profound impact of genuine listening. Whether in parenting, friendship, or spiritual discourse, the ability to truly hear and empathize with others is invaluable. As we navigate our conversations and relationships, let’s strive to listen with the intent to understand, embracing the power of empathy and connection in our interactions.
January 29
Job 35-37
Should We Question God?
In Job 35, we encounter Elihu delivering a rather stark reminder to Job about God’s justice. The New Living Translation vividly illustrates this by stating, “But you are talking nonsense, Job. You have spoken like a fool.” This scene is striking, similar to a parent sternly correcting a child. Although in this case Elihu’s words are against a well-respected community leader, making Elihu’s words even more biting.
Job 36-37: Elihu’s Defense and the Brewing Storm
As we move to Job 36, Elihu’s tone shifts to a self-assured defense of God. He claims unparalleled knowledge and suggests no one else’s arguments hold weight. His lack of humility is palpable. In Job 37, the narrative takes a symbolic turn with a brewing storm, which is undoubtedly a metaphor for the impending divine intervention in the form of a whirlwind, as we’ll see in Job 38.
Elihu’s Main Point: The Inviolability of God’s Justice
Elihu’s primary point seems to be that questioning God’s justice is not permissible. Despite his harshness, there is merit in this point. Believing God to be in the wrong is a step too far. Job’s plea in 31:25 for God to respond to him sets the stage for the divine answer to come.
The Day’s Word: ‘Messy’
Definition: Embarrassing, difficult, or unpleasant; characterized by moral or psychological confusion.
Today’s word is ‘messy’, encompassing both the untidiness of physical spaces and the complexity of situations. Human emotions, relationships, and pain epitomize this messiness. There are seldom easy answers, yet even in this chaos, there is room for growth and trust in God despite the lack of understanding or clear answers.
Applying Job’s Lessons to Our Lives
The Book of Job teaches us that niceties aren’t always necessary or beneficial. Sometimes, a more direct or even harsh approach is needed, especially in faith or correcting misconceptions about God. This is mirrored in my personal experience with adopting teenagers who had experienced trauma. An honest, though difficult, confrontation was necessary to address their harsh words toward me (Tricia), ultimately leading to healing and understanding.
Embracing the Messy, Trusting in God
As we near the end of Job, we’re reminded that questioning God’s actions or motives may not be our place. A gentle rebuke can sometimes be necessary. Elihu’s stern approach to Job might have been needed to convey this important lesson. In our lives, amidst the ‘messy’, turning to God rather than accusing Him can be a source of strength and perspective. A listener’s experience with a blessing jar beautifully illustrates how recognizing God’s blessings, even in the midst of suffering, can transform our outlook and bring healing.
Final Thoughts: Anticipating God’s Response
Tomorrow, as we delve into Job 38, we eagerly await God’s response. This journey through Job teaches us that while it’s essential to confront the messy aspects of life, it’s equally crucial to seek God’s wisdom and perspective in navigating them.
January 30
Job 38-39, Job 40:1-5
God’s Sarcasm and Power
In the book of Job, a pattern emerges where Job responds to his friends and then turns to God with questions and insights. This changes dramatically in chapters 38 to 40. After Elihu’s speeches, God Himself speaks to Job from a whirlwind.
A Reality Check for Job
In Job 38:1, God confronts Job, asking, “Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words?” God’s response is not just a rebuttal but a comprehensive exposition of His creation and power. It’s a stark reminder of the contrast between the finite understanding of humans and the infinite wisdom of God. The sarcastic remark in verse 21, “For you were born before it was all created, and you are so very experienced!” is particularly striking, highlighting Job’s limited perspective compared to God’s eternal presence.
God’s Mastery Over Creation
God’s dialogue encompasses the vastness of His creation, from the earth’s systems to the stars, and even the instincts and intuition of creatures. The example of the ostrich in Job 39, lacking in wisdom yet part of God’s design, serves as a metaphor for the unexpected ways of the Creator. This dialogue underscores the message that questioning God’s wisdom is futile, as His knowledge and control extend far beyond human comprehension.
Job’s Humbling Response
In Job 40, God challenges Job directly, asking if he wishes to continue arguing. Job’s reply is one of humility and recognition of his limitations: “I am nothing–how could I ever find the answers? I will cover my mouth with my hand. I have said too much already. I have nothing more to say.” This is a moment of profound realization and surrender for Job.
Word of the Day: Creation
Definition: The original bringing into existence of the universe by God; an original product of the mind, especially an imaginative artistic work; something that is or has been created.
I am reminded of my own experience in Kenya, where the beauty and brutality of nature were on full display. Witnessing the animals in the Masai Mara, their instincts, and survival mechanisms left me in awe of God’s creation. It’s a stark reminder that often, our disconnect from nature blinds us to the wonders of God’s work. Experiencing the natural world can deepen our appreciation for the Creator’s power and design.
The Power of Words and God’s Language
Words are a significant part of our lives, and as we see in these chapters, God’s use of language is nothing short of masterful. His words are not just communicative but also creative, bringing into existence the complexities of the universe. This reminds us of the immense power and beauty inherent in language, a gift that we often take for granted.
Embracing God’s Wisdom
As we delve into these chapters of Job, we are reminded of God’s immense power and wisdom. In the grand scheme of His creation, our understanding is limited, yet our capacity to marvel at His works is boundless. This journey through Job encourages us to embrace humility, acknowledge our limitations, and trust in the divine wisdom that orchestrates the universe.
January 31
Job 40:6-24, 41, and 42
Can God Restore the Pain?
In the concluding chapters of the Book of Job, we witness a profound transformation. The dialogue between Job and God, especially in chapters 38 to 40, culminates in a powerful exchange where Job is profoundly humbled and ultimately restored.
God in the Whirlwind
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when God speaks to Job a second time from the whirlwind. He confronts Job with hard-hitting questions. Job 40:8 stands out. God asks, “Will you discredit my justice and condemn me just to prove you are right?” This question is a piercing wake-up call for Job.
Behemoth, Leviathan, and the Majesty of God’s Creation
God draws Job’s attention to the Behemoth and Leviathan, mysterious and powerful creatures. These descriptions stir the imagination, leading some, like myself, to believe dinosaurs coexisted with humans. The Behemoth is described as a grass-eating giant with a tail like a cedar, and the Leviathan, portrayed with fearsome power, symbolizes the vastness and diversity of God’s creation. This part of the dialogue emphasizes the incredible scope of God’s creative power, extending far beyond human understanding.
Job’s Response and Restoration
Job’s response to God’s overwhelming revelation is one of deep humility. Acknowledging his limitations, he admits to speaking of things “far too wonderful” for him. Job’s journey from questioning to understanding is encapsulated in Job 42:5, “I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes.”
A Tale of Restoration and Hope
This story reminds me of Kristen Jane Anderson, whose remarkable journey from despair to hope I wrote about in “Life, In Spite of Me.” Like Job, Kristen faced unimaginable suffering but found restoration and a new purpose in life. Her story, like Job’s, is a testament to the fact that even in our darkest moments, God is working toward restoration.
Word of the Day: Restored
Definition: To bring back to a state of health, soundness, or vigor; to give back; make return or restitution of.
The Book of Job closes with a powerful note of restoration. God not only restores Job’s fortunes but also blesses him more abundantly than before. This restoration is not just material but also spiritual and emotional. It’s a vivid illustration of God’s capacity to bring beauty from ashes, to transform sorrow into joy.
The Legacy of Memories
As Job’s story concludes, we’re reminded that while restoration is beautiful, it doesn’t erase the past. Job likely remembered his lost children, just as my friend remembers her little boy, Eddie. These memories, both joyful and painful, shape us and expand our understanding of God. They remind us that our journey with God is not just about the restoration of what was lost but also about growing in our relationship with Him.
In conclusion, the Book of Job is more than just a story of suffering and questioning; it’s a narrative about understanding, humility, and restoration. It teaches us that in our limited understanding, we can trust in God’s infinite wisdom and His power to restore and transform our lives.
February 1
Exodus 1-2, 1 Chronicles 6:1-3, Exodus 3-4:1-17
Finding Faith in the Midst of Hardship
Today, as we delve into the books of Exodus and 1 Chronicles, we find ourselves transported back to a pivotal moment in biblical history, about 300 years after Joseph. The Israelites, once favored in Egypt, are now subjected to slavery and harsh decrees under a Pharaoh who has forgotten Joseph’s contributions. This period is marked by harsh trials, yet it is also a time of immense faith and resilience.
The Courage of Moses’ Family
In Hebrews 11:23, we read about the extraordinary faith of Moses’ parents. They defied Pharaoh’s edict to kill all Hebrew male infants, hiding Moses for three months. Their act of faith and disobedience sets a powerful precedent. Similarly, Shiphrah and Puah, two midwives, bravely allowed Hebrew boys to live, going against Pharaoh’s orders. These acts of defiance highlight the strength of conviction over fear.
Moses: A Life of Struggle and Identity
Born a Hebrew, raised in Pharaoh’s palace, and later fleeing to Midian, Moses lived as a foreigner in many worlds. His son’s name, Gershom, means “a foreigner there.” It symbolizes Moses’ perpetual state of not belonging.
The Burning Bush: A Call to Action
A defining moment occurs when God appears to Moses in a burning bush and tasks him with leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses’ response is not of immediate acceptance but of protest. He questions his abilities and worthiness. This interaction reveals a profound truth: often, we are called to tasks that seem beyond our capacity, yet it is not in our strength but in God’s presence that we find the ability to act.
Word of the Day: Protest
Definition: An expression or declaration of objection, disapproval, or dissent, often in opposition to something a person is powerless to prevent or avoid.
The word ‘protest’ takes on significant meaning in these chapters. Moses repeatedly protests his assignment, embodying the human tendency to doubt and question. Each protest is met with reassurance from God, emphasizing that it is not Moses alone who will act, but God through Moses.
Divine Intervention and Remembrance
In Exodus 2:23-24, we see a shift as God hears the groaning of the Israelites and remembers His covenant. The verbs used here – heard, remembered, looked, knew – signify a God deeply involved and responsive to His people’s plight. This divine intervention is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and active presence in our struggles.
The Reluctant Leader
Moses, a simple shepherd at the time of his calling, embodies the reluctant leader. His questions to God – “Who am I to appear before Pharaoh?” and “Who am I to lead the Israelites?” – are met with a simple yet profound assurance: “I will be with you.” This narrative teaches us that our capabilities are not as important as the presence and guidance of God in our endeavors.
Personal Reflection: Writing “From Dust and Ashes”
My personal journey as an author mirrors Moses’ story of doubt and divine calling. When I began writing “From Dust and Ashes,” I was a young mother with limited knowledge of World War II. Yet, like Moses, I found reassurance not in my own abilities but in the calling and presence of God.
Embracing Our Callings
As we reflect on these chapters, let’s embrace the lessons of faith, protest, and divine calling. Let us remember that in our moments of doubt and fear, we are not alone. God’s presence and promise, “I will be with you,” is a constant source of strength and guidance. May we find courage in our callings, no matter how daunting they may seem.
February 2
Exodus 4:18-31, 5, 6, and 7:1-13
Navigating Challenges with Faith
As we delve into Exodus 4:18-31, 5, 6, and 7:1-13, we encounter narrative of Moses: a tale of obedience, struggle, and divine assurance amidst seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Obedience in the Face of Certain Failure
God’s command to Moses to confront Pharaoh comes with a big problem: Pharaoh’s heart will be hardened, ensuring initial failure. Yet, Moses obeys, embodying a deep faith in God’s plan. This scenario resonates with Job’s story, where questioning God’s intentions becomes a central theme. In Exodus 5, Moses faces the wrath of Pharaoh and the disappointment of his own people, leading to a moment of despair and protest.
God’s Reassurance in Times of Doubt
In these moments of doubt and frustration, God reminds Moses of His omnipotence and promises. God reassures Moses of His commitment to the Israelites, reinforcing His role as the ultimate liberator and redeemer. This dialogue between God and Moses serves as a powerful reminder of God’s enduring presence and covenant.
The Real-Life Struggles of Faith
In Exodus 4:24, a perplexing episode occurs where God confronts Moses for not circumcising his son, highlighting the importance of obedience and holiness. This incident, along with Moses’ repeated doubts and questions, mirrors our human tendency to falter and question our paths, even when divinely chosen.
Word of the Day: Established
Definition: Founded, built, or brought into existence; proven valid or true; accepted or recognized.
The concept of ‘establishment’ is pivotal here. God doesn’t promise immediate success to Moses. Instead, He establishes His intent and power, signifying a long-term commitment and plan. This narrative teaches us that divine calling often involves a journey filled with trials and learning, not instant triumph.
Personal Reflections: Echoes in Our Lives
Reflecting on my personal experiences, whether in writing, starting a crisis pregnancy center, or adopting children, I’ve realized that divine callings are rarely straightforward or easy. They demand perseverance, learning, and often, facing our own shortcomings and doubts.
The Promise of Divine Accompaniment
Despite Moses’ repeated failings – his past actions, doubts, and hesitations – God’s reassurance in is clear and profound. God promises liberation, redemption, and a future to the Israelites. He acknowledges Moses’ flaws but continues to guide and use him for a greater purpose.
Embracing Our Imperfect Journey with God
Our journey with God might be riddled with challenges and self-doubt, but the story of Moses teaches us that divine presence and guidance are constant. God’s promises are not of an easy path, but of His unwavering support and ultimate fulfillment of His plans through us, despite our imperfections. Let’s embrace this journey, understanding that our struggles and questions are part of a larger, divine narrative.
