Month: January 2025

Our verse for today is Exodus 3:1.

“Moses was shepherding the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian.”

I really like this Jethro. While Moses is a towering figure in the Bible, his father-in-law deserves attention too. Jethro’s story, though brief, is compelling. We first meet him in Exodus 2:16:

“Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters, and they came to draw water and fill the troughs to water their father’s flock.”

Who was Jethro? He was the man who became Moses’ father-in-law. After Moses helped Jethro’s seven daughters at the well, Jethro invited him to share a meal with the family. Grateful for Moses’ kindness, Jethro gave him one of his daughters, Zipporah, as a wife. This raises some questions—did Jethro have the right to give his daughter away like that? Perhaps so, but in doing so, he blessed both Moses and Zipporah.

What stands out most about Jethro, though, is his wisdom. In Exodus 18, we find Jethro visiting Moses, who was then leading the Hebrews through the wilderness. With up to three million people following him, Moses was overwhelmed with the task of settling disputes from morning until night. Jethro, observing this, offered sage advice. He told Moses, “What you are doing is not good. You will surely wear out.” Jethro then suggested a plan to delegate responsibilities by appointing capable men to help lead and judge smaller groups. Moses listened, and it transformed the way he managed the people. Read Exodus 18—you’ll likely side with Jethro too.

I hope to meet this wise man in heaven someday. What a conversation that will be!

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

You probably haven’t heard of Huldah. She was a prophetess in 666 BC during the reign of King Josiah, who became king at just 8 years old and was now 26. At that time, God’s temple was in ruins, and His written Law had been lost. The story unfolds in 2 Kings 22.

Here’s some background: Josiah commanded repairs on the temple. During the work, the priests discovered God’s Word. When the Law was read to Josiah, his reaction was immediate and heartfelt. In verse 13, he declared:

“Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah concerning the words in this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.”

Among all the people in Judah, they chose Huldah to interpret God’s Word. Her response inspired Josiah to lead a national revival.

What makes Huldah remarkable?
In an era when women rarely held leadership roles, Huldah stood out. She knew God’s Word and boldly spoke it, becoming a pivotal figure in sparking revival.

We don’t know much else about her, but Huldah made no excuses. She didn’t let her lack of status or wealth hold her back. She simply shared what she knew of God’s truth.

When I get to heaven, I want to meet her. If we follow her example, we, too, can do what we can—with no excuses.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

When I think of prophets, Elijah is always the first name that comes to mind. In the Bible, he bursts onto the scene during a severe drought. Everyone was wondering, “When will it rain again?” Then suddenly, there he is. Elijah stands before King Ahab and declares, “As surely as the LORD lives—the God of Israel before whom I stand—there will be neither dew nor rain in these years except at my word!” (1 Kings 17:1).

He doesn’t offer the king a solution or an explanation. He simply delivers the prophecy and leaves. It’s a fitting introduction to a prophet whose ministry was marked by dramatic and unexpected events.

Some of the most striking stories from Elijah’s life include:

In 1 Kings 17, Elijah raises a widow’s dead son to life through prayer, marking the first recorded resurrection in Scripture.

In 1 Kings 18, we see the famous showdown on Mount Carmel. Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal to a contest to reveal the true God. God answers Elijah’s prayer with fire from heaven, consuming the altar and offering.

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah flees into the wilderness after Queen Jezebel threatens his life.

In 1 Kings 21, Elijah boldly confronts King Ahab over the murder of Naboth and the theft of his vineyard.

Later, Elijah strikes the Jordan River with his cloak, parting the waters so he and Elisha can cross on dry ground.

Finally, Elijah is taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire—a miraculous and unforgettable departure from earth.

These are just a few of the stories that show why Elijah is remembered as one of the greatest prophets. His life was full of powerful moments that reveal God’s presence and purpose. I look forward to meeting him in heaven one day.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

John the Apostle began as a fisherman, a tough and unglamorous job. Picture him and his brother James rising before dawn, hauling heavy nets, and reeking of fish. Alongside their father, Zebedee, they worked tirelessly on the unpredictable Sea of Galilee.  

When Jesus called John, he left everything—his boat, his nets, and his family—without hesitation. This immediate obedience reveals the depth of his trust in Jesus. John gave up the life he knew for a calling he didn’t fully understand but believed was worth everything.  

John’s relationship with Jesus was uniquely close. The Bible calls him “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” At the Last Supper, John leaned on Jesus, a quiet gesture reflecting their deep bond and trust.  

John witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in Jesus’ ministry. He was there at the Transfiguration and stayed with Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane during Jesus’ darkest hours. At the crucifixion, John stood faithfully at the foot of the cross beside Mary.  

Unlike the other apostles, who faced violent deaths for their faith, John lived to an impressive old age. He spent his final years encouraging believers and writing the Book of Revelation around 95 AD. This means he did his most famous work in his nineties.  

John’s life also gave us one of the most quoted verses in history: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.” From a hardworking fisherman to the last surviving apostle, John’s journey reminds us of the transformative power of love, faith, and surrendering to God’s call.  

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our text for today is Exodus 2:10:  

“When the child had grown older, she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son. She named him Moses and explained, ‘I drew him out of the water.'”

And so we meet Moses, a child named not by his Hebrew mother but by an Egyptian princess. Who was this baby drawn from the river? He would grow into the man who would stand before Pharaoh and deliver God’s command: “Let my people go.” He would stretch his staff over the Red Sea, parting its waters so the Israelites could escape. Those same waters would later drown the pursuing Egyptian army. He would ascend Mount Sinai to meet with God and return with the stone tablets bearing the Ten Commandments. Moses even saw a glimpse of God’s presence.

One day, Moses encountered a burning bush on a mountain, a moment that changed everything. At that bush, God gave him an assignment: to go back to Egypt and demand the release of His people. Moses hesitated, offering one excuse after another. “Who am I to do this?” he asked. “I don’t even know Your name.” God responded, “I Am Who I Am.” Moses continued with objections until he finally said, “Lord, please send someone else.” But God insisted, “Go.” Eventually, Moses obeyed. No more excuses.

Like Moses, I often find myself full of excuses for not doing what I know I should. Perhaps you can relate. But in the end, excuses only delay the inevitable. The good news is we don’t have to face our tasks alone. When we remember that God is with us, we can find the courage to act. Like Moses, we should just do it.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Meeting Esther

There is a great quote on courage that says, “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”

Esther’s story is one of courage, faith, and trust in God’s plan. She was an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai.

Esther’s life changed when King Xerxes of Persia chose her to be queen. After Queen Vashti was removed, the king searched for a new queen, and Esther, with her kindness and beauty, won his favor. Even though she was Jewish, she kept her background a secret.

For a long time, Esther’s true identity remained hidden. But when Haman, a powerful official, devised a plan to destroy all the Jews, Esther knew she couldn’t stay silent. Mordecai urged her to speak to the king, even though approaching him uninvited could mean death. Esther knew she had to act.

Before going to the king, Esther asked Mordecai and the Jews in the city to join her in a three-day fast, seeking God’s help. This action showed her great faith and trust in God’s guidance.

Finally, Esther went to the king, saying, “If I perish, I perish.” Her words showed her courage and willingness to risk everything to save her people. Her bravery and faith led to the salvation of the Jewish people.

Esther’s story reminds us that one person, with faith and courage, can make a difference.

I’m Lonnie Davis and these are thoughts worth thinking.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Our text today is John 1:40-42:  

“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus. He first found his brother Simon and told him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated as Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which is translated as Peter).”  

When Simon first met Jesus, he received a new name: Peter, meaning “rock.” Jesus saw strength and stability in Peter, even though Peter didn’t always see it in himself. That’s how Jesus sees us too—He knows the good we may not yet recognize.  

Before following Jesus, Peter was a fisherman, working alongside his brother Andrew. When Jesus called him, Peter left his nets behind to become a “fisher of men.”  

Peter was among the first disciples chosen by Jesus. Once, when Jesus walked on water, Peter asked to join Him. Stepping out of the boat, Peter walked on water too—until he took his eyes off Jesus and noticed the waves. As he began to sink, Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out and saved him. Jesus was right on time, as He always is. 

Despite his love for Jesus, Peter made mistakes. On the night Jesus was arrested, Peter denied knowing Him three times. Later, filled with regret, Peter was heartbroken. After His resurrection, Jesus forgave Peter and gave him another chance.  

Peter went on to boldly preach about Jesus. His life reminds us that God can use imperfect people to do extraordinary things.  

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.  

Our text today is John 1:40-42:  

“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus. He first found his brother Simon and told him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated as Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which is translated as Peter).”  

When Simon first met Jesus, he received a new name: Peter, meaning “rock.” Jesus saw strength and stability in Peter, even though Peter didn’t always see it in himself. That’s how Jesus sees us too—He knows the good we may not yet recognize.  

Before following Jesus, Peter was a fisherman, working alongside his brother Andrew. When Jesus called him, Peter left his nets behind to become a “fisher of men.”  

Peter was among the first disciples chosen by Jesus. Once, when Jesus walked on water, Peter asked to join Him. Stepping out of the boat, Peter walked on water too—until he took his eyes off Jesus and noticed the waves. As he began to sink, Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out and saved him. Jesus was right on time, as He always is. 

Despite his love for Jesus, Peter made mistakes. On the night Jesus was arrested, Peter denied knowing Him three times. Later, filled with regret, Peter was heartbroken. After His resurrection, Jesus forgave Peter and gave him another chance.  

Peter went on to boldly preach about Jesus. His life reminds us that God can use imperfect people to do extraordinary things.  

I’m Lonnie Davis and these are thoughts worth thinking.  

Our verse today is 1 Samuel 10:21–24, which recounts the fascinating and humorous story of Saul becoming king.

“Finally, Saul son of Kish was selected to be king. But when they looked for him, they could not find him. So again they inquired of the LORD, ‘Has the man come here yet?’ And the LORD replied, ‘Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage.’ So they ran and brought Saul, and when he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others. Samuel said to all the people, ‘Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.’ And all the people shouted, ‘Long live the king!’”

Saul’s story is one of great beginnings but a tragic end. His early humility made him likable, but that changed with time. 

One of his major mistakes was offering an unlawful sacrifice. Instead of waiting for Samuel, Saul took matters into his own hands, showing a lack of trust in God’s timing. Later, when commanded to destroy an enemy and their possessions, he disobeyed, sparing the enemy king and keeping the best livestock. This act of defiance led God to reject him as king.

Saul’s jealousy of David consumed him. David’s successes angered and unsettled Saul, driving him to repeatedly try to kill David. In his rage, Saul even attempted to kill his own son, who supported David. 

Saul’s life reminds us that whether king or commoner, rich or poor, we must value obedience, trust, and humility before God.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking. 

(Explore 1 Samuel 8 through 31) to read more about his life.

Our Scripture for today is Isaiah 7:14:

“The Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.”

These words prophesy the birth of Jesus. Mary was a virgin, yet she would have a son. One cannot summarize Mary’s life in a few words, but here are things you may not know about Mary, the mother of Jesus:

1. Mary’s Hebrew name was Miriam, which means “beloved” or “exalted one.”
2. When Mary became the mother of Jesus, she was likely a young teenager, perhaps only 14–16 years old. This was a typical age for marriage in her culture, and she must have been extraordinary for God to choose her at such a young age.
3. Mary was a great student of the Bible, even as a young person. Her song of praise, recorded in Luke 1:46-55, reflects her deep knowledge of Scripture and trust in God’s promises.
4. One of the most unimaginable moments in Mary’s life was standing near the cross as Jesus was crucified (see John 19:25-27)
   
   Mary’s true character shines in her words to the angel: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). In other words, she was saying, “Let the Lord’s will be done. I don’t matter.”

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.