Job 7-8 Job is still suffering and still proclaiming his innocence. This post explores why bad things happen to good people and provides a broader context for understanding and coping with suffering. [It is recommended to read Job 7-8 after reading Genesis 18-19.] Summary Job continues to complain of his…
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Influences of Bad Behavior
Genesis 18-19 This story of Lot and his family highlights how a negative environment can perpetuate cycles of bad behavior and corruption that can have lasting effects, influencing not just individuals but entire generations. Summary The Lord along with two angels visited Abraham, and Abraham enthusiastically welcomed them. He brought…
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The Importance of Empathy in Friendships
Job 5-6 Job is in immense pain, but rather than be there for him, his friend seems to dismiss him. Job, feeling judged and unsupported by his friend, rebukes Eliphaz for his lack of empathy. This passage explores the importance of fostering strong and supportive friendships, even in the toughest…
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Power Imbalances Between Women: The Story of Sarai and Hagar
Genesis 16-17 The story of Sarai and Hagar is a powerful narrative that delves into themes of desperation, power dynamics, jealousy, exploitation, and divine intervention. Sarai’s longing for a child leads to a series of events that test the boundaries of loyalty, empathy, and resilience, ultimately highlighting the need for…
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The Meaning of Suffering
Job 3-4 This passage explores suffering and the meaning of life. Job is in profound agony and wishes to end it all. Job’s friend reminds him that there is a reason for his life and that he should continue to trust in God. This verse should be read with Genesis…
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Navigating Honor in an Unethical World
Genesis 14-15 Abram makes a moral decision after rescuing Lot amidst a war of kings. This passage is our first introduction of war in ancient times. Rather than profiting, we see Abram choose honor in an unethical world. This verse should be read with Job 3-4. Summary A war breaks…
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Job’s Unwavering Faith through Suffering
Job 1-2 Satan challenges Job’s faith in God. The pivotal question arises: Will Job sustain his faith through suffering life’s hardships? Reading Job 1-2 alongside Genesis 11-12 offers a comprehensive understanding, encouraging readers to consider Abram and Job’s faith journeys together. Summary Job is the greatest man in all the…
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Abram’s Journey with Faith Amid a Mistake
Genesis 12-13 This story is about Abram’s faith in God, and God’s faith in Abram despite his misguided mistake that landed his wife in an unfortunate predicament. The Great Adventure Timeline combines certain verses from different books at times. The reason for the combination is to provide more context around…
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Noah’s Legacy and Humanity’s Quest for Power and Fame
Genesis 10-11 We learned of Noah’s three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth in Genesis 9:18. This next passage is about how Noah’s family and the generations that followed evolved into a dispersal of people with different nations and different languages. We witness God’s disappointment with humans when given biological gifts,…
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A Tale of Unrepentance: Trump vs. Biblical Figures
In light of a recent conversation I had with a family member, I’m taking a detour from the timeline to discuss the religious question: What is repentance? My cousin, a white Conservative Republican, told me that God uses imperfect people to accomplish his will. I take issue with this comment…