NOVEMBER 2019

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 118:1

THANKS AND PRAISE

A ministry of TODAY WITH MARK JOBE President of Moody Bible Institute

What Are You Thankful For? Thanksgiving at the Psalm 136 begins with a phrase Jobe home is a festive repeated in the Bible: “Give thanks event. Since my wife, to the Lord, for he is good. His love Dee, has a large endures forever.” The Psalm goes on to extended family, we detail God’s work in Israel’s past, guiding often crowd as many and protecting His people. Living in as 30 people around a constant state of thanksgiving is our table. But before we carve the turkey challenging but important for us as well. and enjoy the delicious meal, we gather in a circle to pray. Family members and Turning our attention to praise fights off guests share the things for which they our tendency to worry. “Praise the Lord, are thankful. And it probably doesn’t my soul, and forget not all his benefits— surprise you that this often ends with who forgives all your sins and heals all many of us tearing up. Giving thanks your diseases” (Ps. 103:2, 3). What are touches everyone! you burdened by today? When you turn your attention to God, and give Him the What you may not know is that giving praise He deserves, you will become thanks has physical benefits! Two more aware of His presence and start to psychologists did a study where one discover peace that only He can bring. group of participants was asked to journal every day, listing things for which Thanking and praising God give voice to they were grateful, the other group our dependence on Him. Praise invites wrote about irritations. After 10 weeks, God to be present in the now of our those who expressed gratitude felt more lives, whether joyous or difficult. It makes optimistic and better about their lives. room to recognize God’s goodness. This should not just be a one-time-a-year But more than just feeling good, giving thing but a defining part of life: “Because thanks has great spiritual benefit your love is better than life, my lips will because it puts our attention back on glorify you. I will praise you as long as I God. It turns our hearts and minds away live” (Ps. 63:3, 4). from our preoccupations, our own false sense of control, and recognizes the fact May our Thanksgiving continue long that everything we are and all we have after the last morsel of turkey is gone. come directly from Him. May thankfulness and praise become a natural overflow of our grateful heart. n

(800) 356-6639 THEOLOGY MATTERS by Dr. John Koessler

True Worship n many churches, the phrase “praise our offerings or the affirmation of our and worship” describes a certain praise to be happy. Instead, true worship I style of music. Although worship recognizes our complete dependence certainly includes music, it also involves upon Him (Acts 17:24–25). We usually much more. One definition of worship think of worship as our gift to God, but, might be “any act of devotion which in reality, it is the other way around. is offered to God.” In His conversation When we offer praise and thanksgiving with the Samaritan woman, recorded to God, we are the ones who benefit. in John 4, Jesus outlines some of the most important features of true biblical God seeks this kind of person to worship worship. Him. Not all worship is acceptable. This was one of the first lessons humanity Not all worship is considered “true” learned after the fall. God accepted worship. The kind of worshiper God Abel’s offering but rejected Cain’s seeks is one who worships “in the Spirit (Gen. 4:4–5). The fundamental and in truth” (v. 24). Jesus contrasts this difference between the two offerings with worship that is only external or, was a matter of faith (Heb. 11:4). as we might say today, worship that is just “going through the motions.” The In the same way, our worship is Jews and the Samaritans disagreed acceptable to God when it is offered by about the location where God should faith through Jesus Christ. Those who be worshiped. According to Jesus, the have placed their faith in Christ offer Jews were right (v. 22). However, Christ’s their lives to God as a “living sacrifice” coming signaled a change. Instead of (Rom. 12:1). We do not do this to earn a worship being centered in Jerusalem righteous standing before God but as and requiring a priest and sacrifices that an expression of thanksgiving for His pointed to a coming savior, true worship mercy. If you know Jesus as your Savior, would now celebrate the sacrifice of your whole life is an exercise in praise Jesus Himself (Heb. 7:27; 9:12, 26). and thanksgiving. n

True worship reflects God’s nature. Since FOR FURTHER STUDY He is spirit, He is not confined to any To learn more about the true nature particular geographic space. He does of worship, read Tozer on Worship not dwell in temples and does not have and Entertainment by A. W. Tozer and needs as we do. God does not need James L. Snyder (Moody Publishers).

TODAYINTHEWORD.ORG FROM THE EDITORS by Jamie Janosz

Meet This Month’s Devotional Writer: Dr. Chris Rappazini Dr. Chris grew tremendously. I learned to change Rappazini serves my perspective and turn my inward as associate attitude of gratitude to an outward professor and expression of thanks and praise. program head of the BA/MA in What do you love most about Pastoral Studies teaching? at Moody Bible Institute and Moody I am a millennial who believes the Bible Theological Seminary. is still relevant, the Church is not just for previous generations, and God isn’t What inspired you to write this out to lunch or on vacation. I hope to month’s issue on Thanks and Praise? inspire my students to mature into the As a former student at Moody Bible men and women God has called them Institute, I will forever be thankful to be, to grow as critical thinkers, and to for the men and women who have become ambassadors for Jesus around donated and partnered with Moody the world. to help students, including me, to graduate without the burden of When you are not writing, preaching, excessive debt. Every time I think of or teaching, what do you love to do? my Bible and ministry education, and I like to explore new places or return to the opportunities I’ve had to serve the the white sandy beaches and emerald Lord, I can’t help but thank God for the green waters of Destin, Florida, where countless people who gave to make my I grew up. I love to spend time with my Moody education possible. wife, Ashley, a 2012 Moody Spokane graduate, and our three children, What did you find God teaching you Adeline Jane (3 years old), Thomas personally through this month’s study? Gibson (1 ½ years old) and Graham As I spent time in the Word, I realized I Haddon (4 months old). I also enjoy did not give enough thanks to God or cooking and trying out new recipes. to the people in my life. It is easy for While I am on sabbatical from teaching all of us to get to a point of routinely at Moody, Ashley and I currently live expecting things from God and others. in Texas, where I am a post-doctoral As a result of my research for this fellow at George W. Truett Theological month’s devotional, my appreciation for Seminary at Baylor University. n the people God has placed in my life

(800) 356-6639 VOLUME 32 • ISSUE 11

MANAGING EDITOR Jamie Janosz SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter CONTRIBUTING EDITOR John Koessler Thanks and Praise WRITER Chris Rappazini This season of Thanksgiving is a wonderful ART DIRECTOR Lynn Gabalec background to study this month’s topic, Thanks and GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Praise. We at Today in the Word are especially grateful Larry Bohlin, Rachel Hutcheson for you, our friends and readers across the country and MARKETING & PRODUCTION Paul B. Currie around the world. It’s a special privilege for us to study the Bible together and to encourage each other in our MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE PRESIDENT journey with Christ. Mark Jobe EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT This month, we’ll read about gratitude and praise, Mark Wagner SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT grace and hope, forgiveness and blessings, resting Greg Thornton in God and making things right. We’ll see how our CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER “attitude of gratitude” opens our hearts to God’s love, Ken Heulitt CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER His grace, and His Word. We’ll explore the connection Samuel Choy between thanking God and praising Him, and we’ll CHIEF INFORMATION trace the way from praising God to bringing glory to OFFICER John Sauceda His name. Finally, we’ll see that a life of humble service is an act of glorifying God. VICE PRESIDENTS Tim Arens Jim Elliott We pray this month’s study with Today in the Word will Bruce Everhart Doug Hastings fill you with thankfulness. May you experience God’s Bryan O’Neal Paul Santhouse grace, love, and joy as you serve Him. Thank you Heather Shalley for being a part of our work for Christ! Thank you for Janet Stiven Debbie Zelinski reflecting God’s goodness and grace by your support of this ministry. Happy Thanksgiving! n TRUSTEES Christopher Denison Orbelina Eguizabal —Elena Mafter, Senior Editor Mike Fabarez T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) Mark Flannery Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Mark Jobe Paul Johnson (Emeritus) James Meeks David Schipper Moody Bible Institute is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright Bob Schuldt © 2019 by Moody Bible Institute. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Julianna Slattery in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., Richard E. Warren Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Richard Yook NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper.

TODAYINTHEWORD.ORG READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:50–58

FRIDAY I will give thanks to the Lord because NOVEMBER of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the Lord Most High. 1 Psalm 7:17

Thanks and Praise “Don’t forget to say thank you!” If He states that they will be “changed.” you are like me, when you were a child Notice that he uses the word changed, you probably heard this phrase often. which could also be translated as If you are a parent, you have probably “transformed,” in both verses 51 and given this advice to your children. But 52. We are changed from perishable to if we are honest with ourselves, most imperishable, from mortal to immortal, adults—yes, even Christians—need to from death to life. be reminded to give thanks. After quoting Isaiah 25:8 and Hosea God teaches His children the 13:14 (vv. 54, 55), Paul pauses in the importance of living a thankful life. midst of his theological lesson. It is As His sons and daughters, we have almost as if he cannot control his many reasons to be thankful. He excitement. Bursting from his pen, and gives us breath in our lungs, people probably his mouth, are the words, in our lives, and most importantly, “But thanks be to God!” (v. 57). Why victory over the grave! Our reading are Christians to be thankful to God? today from 1 Corinthians 15 frames this Paul states it is because we have a month’s theme, Thanks and Praise. transformative victory through the Lord After explaining his belief in Jesus’ Jesus Christ! Our victory in Christ ought resurrection and the renewal given to lead to a life overflowing with thanks to those who are Christians, Paul and praise. This month, join us as we encourages the believers in Corinth to examine what the Bible says about be hopeful about their eternal future. giving thanks and praise.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Paul concludes with an appeal to stand firm, Thank you for joining us for knowing a believer’s work and commitment to Bible study and prayer with the Lord are not in vain. As we begin this month’s Today in the Word this month. We ask the Lord to bless our study, why not start a list of reasons in your life time together and draw us to give thanks and praise? Let this be a daily deeper into His Word by the reminder to stand firm in Christ because of His power of the Holy Spirit. transformative work in your life.

6 TODAY IN THE WORD READ LUKE 18:35–43

SATURDAY For great is the Lord NOVEMBER and most worthy of praise. Psalm 96:4 2

Thanks and Praise Are Contagious A hamburger and french fries. A what it would have been like for this weekend and ideal weather. Each one is blind man in the first century. No wonder pleasing on its own, but they are better he cried out to Jesus to heal him and when paired together. Yesterday we take away his burden (v. 38). talked about giving thanks; today we’ll discuss the second topic of this month’s When Jesus heard the cry, He spoke study: praise. and immediately healed the blind man (vv. 42–43). Undoubtedly, this man was Giving thanks is an act of gratitude thankful, but the text explicitly says that and appreciation. A person expresses he started following Jesus and praising thanks because of the things someone God (v. 43). His thankfulness for what else has done. Praise is an expression Jesus had done was accompanied by of admiration and delight. Typically, his praise to God. worship follows praise because praising God gives us extreme joy and deep Not only was the man’s sight healed, but satisfaction. When we combine thanks those around him also saw the miracle and praise, we glorify God and help and joined the man in praising God. others see His glory in worship. The beggar’s exuberant thanks and praise toward God were contagious. A The blind beggar in today’s text had a worshipful moment sprang up outside transformative encounter with Jesus that the city gates of Jericho that day changed his life forever. All he wanted because of one man’s encounter with in life was to see. If you have a problem Jesus. The same is true for us today. with eyesight, you know how difficult Thanks and praise go best together, and discouraging it can be. Just imagine and when they do, it can be contagious.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Throughout the month, as you add to your list of It’s important to pray for the reasons to be thankful, don’t forget to praise God Moody Bible Institute trustees for each of these reasons. When others see and and lend them spiritual support in their service to Moody’s hear you praising God, they will take note and ministries. While praying, you can hopefully join you. Remember, thanks and praise refer to the list of their names on are beautiful on their own, but they are best when page 5 of this issue. they accompany one another.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 7 READ MATTHEW 11:25–30

SUNDAY NOVEMBER Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 3 Matthew 11:28

Thanking God for Rest Benjamin Franklin popularized the well. Jesus calls everyone who is weak, proverb: “Early to bed and early to rise weary, tired, famished, sick, burdened, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and or looking for something different to wise.” However, contrary to popular search no further and come to Him. belief, Franklin did not propose the idea He proclaims that in Him a person for Daylight Saving Time. The idea came can discover true rest. In verse 29, from New Zealander George Hudson Jesus uses the metaphor of a wooden who valued extra hours of daylight for crosspiece—a yoke that fastens two collecting bugs after his daily shift-work. animals together for plowing—to Whether you spend your extra hour illustrate how He gives this rest. In sleeping, reading, or collecting bugs, other words, the God of the universe I hope it is restful. But if you woke up is volunteering to take on our load, today still tired, stressed, and carrying teaching us how to live, demonstrating a heavy burden, you need more than gentleness and humility, so our souls just an extra hour in your day. Jesus was can experience respite. aware that true rest doesn’t come from simply more time in your day, it comes This invitation was unlike any other that from being in His presence and allowing people in the first century would have Him to carry your heavy burden. heard. Similarly, Jesus’ invitation to find rest remains true for you and me today. In today’s Scripture, Matthew records While we ought to be thankful for a good part of a sermon that Jesus often night’s rest and an extra hour to our day, preached. It was Jesus’ conclusion that ultimately we ought to thank God for the was most memorable for His listeners, true rest that comes only from taking for Matthew, and perhaps for you as Jesus’ yoke upon us.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Find time today to quiet your soul, spend time with Today we invite you to pray for Jesus, and experience the rest He gives. When the MBI faculty in the Pastoral you share with others how you spent your extra Ministry program: Craig Hendrickson, Laurie Norris, hour, be sure to thank God for the true rest you Pamela MacRae, and Winfred find in Jesus. If you are interested in studying this Neely. We are grateful for topic further, see our February 2016 issue, God’s their teaching, mentoring, and Promise of Rest. ministering to our students.

8 TODAY IN THE WORD READ ROMANS 1:8–13

I thank my God through Jesus Christ MONDAY for all of you, because your faith is being NOVEMBER reported all over the world. Romans 1:8 4

Two Powerful Words Why do so many of us forget to give They shared a bond as Christ followers thanks? Why do we have a national that didn’t just make them alike but holiday reminding us to acknowledge also caused them to grow “strong” our blessings? Perhaps we are too (v. 11) in their faith. In verses 11 and 12, busy. Or maybe it slips our minds we see that Paul longed to see them because so many other thoughts come for mutual encouragement. first. It is good for us to ponder the importance and unleashed power of We know from Romans 16 that the these two words: thank you. people in Rome were considered some of Paul’s closest friends and family In our reading today, Paul tells the members. In his closing greeting, he believers in Rome how thankful to names them one by one. Paul was so God he is for them (v. 8). Perhaps the incredibly thankful to God for them that reason Paul didn’t forget to mention he makes it a point at the beginning he was thankful for them was that his and the end of his letter to let them whole life was a life of gratitude for his know how much he appreciated them. fellow believers. In verse 9, Paul says that God is his witness, and He has What is more, he is abundantly clear kept him accountable for how often how thankful he was to God for them. he remembered to give thanks for his Even in the midst of his longing to friends in Rome. He remembers them see his old friends, he remembered “constantly” (v. 9). to thank God, because he recognized that two of the most powerful words in Paul and his friends in Rome were able the world are thank you. to encourage one another in the faith.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Whom have you forgotten to thank recently? Please uphold in prayer Moody’s Make it a point to have the words thank you chief marketing officer, Samuel always on your lips. When you see someone you Choy, and his team as they communicate to friends, old and need to thank, be sure to use the two powerful new, the vision and message words: thank you. And take time now to express of Moody’s ministry through gratitude to God for people in your life. various media.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 9 READ JOHN 6:1–15

TUESDAY Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, NOVEMBER he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” 5 Matthew 26:26

And Give Thanks “God is great, God is good, let us thank What we sometimes miss in this story Him for our food. Amen.” It’s unclear is that Jesus stopped to pray and give where this traditional mealtime prayer thanks. We remember the crowd, the began, but it does express an important miracle, the disciples, but how often do sentiment. We are to give thanks for we wonder about Jesus’ prayer? For everything we have, knowing that every whom exactly was Jesus thankful? For single blessing comes from God Himself. the boy who gave up his lunch? For the apostle Andrew who had come up with In our Scripture reading today, we the inventive idea? Or perhaps for the see that crowds following Jesus were boy’s mother who remembered to pack enormous (v. 2). Talk had spread about a lunch for her son? His miraculous signs of healing the sick. People had come from all over The text doesn’t tell, but from what we to witness more. When the disciples know about the prayers of Jesus, we considered the best way to feed the can be sure to whom Jesus gave thanks: thousands of people gathered to hear God the Father. Jesus paused and and see Jesus, the apostle Andrew thanked the Father before that hillside stepped forward with an innovative meal, just as He did when He passed the plan. He volunteered a boy’s small wine and bread during His last supper lunch as a solution to their problem. before His death. We too can give Jesus accepted the five small rolls and thanks, remembering that God is great a couple of fish the size of sardines, and God is good. Thank Him for the food gave thanks, distributed the food, and that sustains us and even more, for His multiplied it to satisfy all the people. sacrifice that gives us life.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you pray before meals? If not, try pausing today Students’ Spiritual Enrichment to give thanks before you eat. If you do have a Week starts today on our Chicago regular prayer time, perhaps extend it by thanking campus. Lift up in prayer MBI’s President, Dr. Mark Jobe, as God for the many provisions in your life. Pray for he opens the first session and those around the world who hunger for physical introduces the speakers. May and spiritual food. Allow your mealtime prayers to the Lord bless the teaching be a reminder to give thanks. throughout this week!

10 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 118

WEDNESDAY Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; NOVEMBER his love endures forever. Psalm 118:1 6

Give Thanks to the Lord At the time of this writing, there are five “in the name of the Lord I cut them major television shows with the word down” (vv. 10–12), and “the Lord’s right “good” in the title. In case you were hand” (vv. 15–16). The past tense used wondering: The Good Wife, The Good throughout this psalm may indicate that Fight, The Good Place, The Good Witch, David penned this poetic song after and The Good Doctor. If King David he had gained full possession of the were to produce a televised show today, kingdom. he might name it: The Good God. Peppered throughout the psalm, In today’s Scripture reading, David these reoccurring phrases highlight bookends his psalm with the phrase, David’s attitude of thanks for Yahweh’s “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; goodness and the deliverance that his love endures forever” (vv. 1, 29). the Lord granted him. David makes Similar to what we learned yesterday it clear that anyone who sings this from the apostle Paul, David begins and psalm will give thanks to the Lord for ends his thoughts with thanksgiving in His goodness, both individually and his heart and on his lips. Throughout his corporately. David also emphasizes psalm, David repeats several times why the goodness of God who brought he believes the Lord is good. Since this salvation by shining His light upon us (v. psalm was most likely sung to a musical 27). Living on this side of the cross and accompaniment, imagine these lines as empty tomb, we know the light is none a refrain. You may have noticed them: other than Jesus Christ. David was right: “His love endures forever” (vv. 1–4; give thanks to the Lord for He is the 29), “take refuge in the Lord” (vv. 8–9), Good God.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When you look back at your own life journey, what As Spiritual Enrichment Week—a themes keep popping up? How has God shown focused exploration of biblical you His goodness? He has done some incredible truths for Moody’s undergraduate and seminary students—continues things in your life and has put a burning desire in today, join us in prayer for a you to love Him and glorify His name. Thank Him fruitful time and a deeper walk for that passion and His goodness. with Jesus for every participant.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 11 READ 1 CHRONICLES 16

THURSDAY NOVEMBER Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 7 1 Chronicles 16:8

Give Thanks for All He Has Done If anything of yours has ever been lost or but David reminds us that both are stolen and then found, your first reaction needed and necessary. Fast forward most likely was thankfulness. Perhaps a few generations. During Jesus’ you were relieved to be reunited with earthly ministry, many people thanked your purse, keys, or phone. However, Him for His miracles, but His decrees imagine if what was eventually returned about Himself made a very different was the symbol of God’s presence, the impression on people. His miracles Ark of the Covenant. were praised, while His judgments were perceived as threatening. After God enabled David and his men to defeat the Philistine army, there was Even today, we are much quicker to one more important task: they were thank God for His miracles than for His to bring the Ark of the Covenant to judgments. Many people prefer gentle Jerusalem. The Ark was now going to lies rather than hard truths. But God has be returned to its rightful home and, called us to a life of grace and truth. for this homecoming, David commits a David reminds his people, as well as us, psalm of thanks to the Lord (vv. 8–36). that we ought to thank the Lord for all In this poetic song, David thanks God the wondrous things He has done. Both for the wondrous things He has done His miracles and His judgments show for the Israelites with His miracles, His God’s presence in our lives. Thankfully, judgments, and decrees (v. 12). every day God’s Word gracefully speaks truth into your life and mine. It is often easier to give thanks to the Lord for miracles than for judgments,

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Can you name one miracle and one hard truth God Dr. Timothy Arens, VP and dean has given you? Remembering what God has done of Student Life, will be grateful for in your life is one of the first steps to fill your life your prayers as he and his staff serve Moody students on our with thanks. Like David, be sure to thank the Lord Chicago campus. Ask God to fill for all the wondrous things He has done. If you their ministry with love, grace, and have time, compose your own psalm of praise to patience on a daily basis. the Lord.

12 TODAY IN THE WORD READ COLOSSIANS 3:1–17

FRIDAY So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, NOVEMBER do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 8

Give Thanks Whatever You Do I am willing to guess you have already day become when Christ appears. done many things today including Most likely they had many reasons waking up, getting ready for your day, to revolt against the cultural norms, pouring yourself a cup of coffee, or as well as against one another, and reading your Bible. I hope you are succumb to the pressures of the starting your day with thankfulness, but day. But Paul challenges his readers if you need a reminder to be grateful, to reject distorted sexuality and Paul’s letter to the believers in Colossae destructive speech (vv. 8–11) and live as offers us some words of wisdom. new creations with love, compassion, humility, forgiveness, and patience (vv. In our reading today, Paul tells the 12–14). They are to live a life of peace Colossians how to respond to the in the midst of an anti-Christian culture cultural pressures they faced. At (vv. 15–17). the beginning of chapter 3, Paul encourages the faithful to set their Paul faced tremendous opposition, but hearts on things above and not on the he still inspired others to give thanks things of this world (vv. 1–4). Christ- in everything they did. Following Paul’s followers have the power of Jesus’ exhortation, we should do everything in resurrection within them; therefore, a the name of the Lord, with an attitude of radical change in lifestyle and attitudes thankfulness. Many opportunities and is possible. Paul challenges them to choices come into our lives every day— have the courage to live in the present remember to be thankful in whatever as the type of people they will one you do.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Sometimes we find it most difficult to live in peace During your prayer time, please and thankfulness when we interact with our family remember Joe Gonzales, Brenda members. Read the end of chapter 3 of Colossians. Cuellar, Edward Jones, and Rebekah Kiesling from Student Which category describes you? Remember, God Programs. We thank God for their put the people in your household for a reason. service with student organizations, Thank the Lord for giving you someone to love! as they meet everyday needs, as well as provide spiritual guidance.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 13 READ LUKE 24:13–35

SATURDAY In his great mercy he has given us new birth NOVEMBER into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 9 1 Peter 1:3

Give Thanks That He Is Alive! In almost every home makeover way He spoke? However, we can guess show, the climactic moment comes they realized it was the Lord when when the host reveals the newly Jesus handed them the bread, and they remodeled house to the owners. The saw His nail-scarred hands (v. 30). Luke neighborhood is the same, the address tells us in verse 31, “Then their eyes has not changed, but the house is were opened and they recognized him.” completely transformed. Their response was as you would Two disciples had a life-changing expect—they were amazed. When the reveal while sharing a meal with the two returned to Jerusalem, they found resurrected Jesus. For hours, they did the other eleven disciples and gave not know the true identity of the person thanks to the Lord, proclaiming that “the they faced. At first they thought their Lord has risen” (v. 34). guest was a clueless Jerusalem visitor (v. 17). Yet, they would soon learn it The resurrection of Jesus changed was none other than the resurrected everything for those two disciples, and Savior. Today’s text says they came to it changes everything for you and me this realization immediately after Jesus too. The same power that raised Christ broke bread, gave thanks, and began to from the dead lives in us. Give thanks to give it to them. the Lord because He is alive, just as He said. He lives in us, and one day we will Did they recognize Christ when they be more fully alive than ever before. heard Him pray? Or was it perhaps the

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Prepare your heart and mind for worship at your Let’s praise the Lord for the church service tomorrow. As you gather with other lessons in thankfulness we are believers, you will enter into a sacred communion learning this month. Let us give thanks from our hearts to the that has been going on for generations—thanking living, loving, powerful, and the Lord that He is indeed alive! What can you do life-giving God. He is indeed today to prepare for your worship at your church alive, and He gives new life to tomorrow? His people!

14 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 100

SUNDAY Enter his gates with thanksgiving NOVEMBER and his courts with praise. Psalm 100:4 10

Give Thanks for Ministers of the Word Every week, believers across the globe who weekly serve the flock. We are the gather to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. Lord’s people and His sheep (v. 3); the Do you have this opportunity today? We Lord is our Great Shepherd (Ps. 23:1). may not always appreciate how much And He has called many to a special planning, preparation, and time go into ministry of caring for His people. As you our weekly church services. This is one enter into the Lord’s gates today (v. 4), more reason to come to the house of remember those who serve the church the Lord with a spirit of thankfulness. by cleaning the building, preparing sermons, practicing music, or greeting Our Scripture today reminds us that those who enter. Psalm 100 reminds us we are to worship the Lord with joy that the Lord’s faithfulness continues and give thanks for His goodness and through all generations (v. 5). Thank faithfulness. Did you notice that verses the Lord for ministers of the Word 1 to 3 focus on our worship, while who pass down the knowledge and verses 4 and 5 focus on giving thanks truths of God’s faithfulness to the next to the Lord? The Psalmist reminds us to generation. enter the Lord’s places of worship with both thanksgiving and praise. Around the world—in prisons, refugee camps, hospitals, battlefields, schools, Our focus this month is on giving thanks and sanctuaries—ministers of God’s to the Lord. Let’s remember to thank Word serve God’s people. Thank the Him for the ministers of God’s Word Lord for these shepherds of the flock.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Find a way to thank a minister of God’s Word Our Stewardship department today, whether it is a preacher, teacher, greeter, witnesses God’s faithfulness every musician, or volunteer. Thank them for their day. As they reach out to our donors, they thank God for their service in the kingdom. One way you can show generosity and His provision for your appreciation is to volunteer to work alongside Moody. They ask you to pray that them. The Lord will see your service, and you will God will grant them peace, safety in be a blessing to many. travels, and the spirit of teamwork.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 15 READ HEBREWS 11:32–12:28

MONDAY For everything that was written in former NOVEMBER days was written to teach us, so that . . . we might have hope. 11 Romans 15:4

Thanks for Those Who Have Gone Before November 11, 1918, is considered the as we must not forget what our country’s end of World War I, “the war to end all veterans have done in the name of wars.” In 1926, the U.S. Congress passed freedom from tyranny, we must also a resolution for an annual observance never forget what our Christian brothers of that day. In 1938, Veteran’s Day and sisters have done in the name of (November 11) was declared a national freedom from sin and death. holiday, representing all veterans who served or are currently serving. Other This is why the author pivots from countries such as Canada, Australia, remembrances to an encouragement and Great Britain also celebrate their for Christians to “run with perseverance” veterans on or near November 11, (12:1). With our eyes fixed on Jesus, naming their holiday Remembrance Day. Christians can carry the faith forward We remember those who have gone (12:2–3). Verse 28 concludes the chapter before us. by reminding the readers that no matter what we face, believers everywhere will Early Christians also remembered those be “receiving a kingdom that cannot be who had gone before them in the faith. shaken.” Having this mindset leads us In Hebrews 11, the author mentions to thankfulness. We are to be grateful the men and women who kept and for those who have gone before us, but carried forward the faith. The author also thankful for the day when wars and wishes there were more time and ink rumors of wars will cease and we will to continue the list but concludes by finally enter into His kingdom. “He will summarizing the atrocities committed wipe every tear from their eyes. There against the first-century Christians and will be no more death or mourning or the sacrifices they made (11:32–40). Just crying or pain” (Rev. 21:4).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today, if an opportunity arises, thank those Another department that has who have gone before us. Try to thank both a plenty of reasons to be thankful at military veteran, who has sacrificed greatly for the workplace is Moody’s Donor Resource Management. Please our freedom, and a believer in Christ, who paved pray for Amelia Mendez, David the way for you and me. The Lord calls us to Kocourek, and Kyella Gilliam remember, and when we do, we ought to give as they process gifts from our thanks to those who went before us. supporters across the country.

16 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 148

Let them praise the name of the Lord, TUESDAY for his name alone is exalted; his splendor NOVEMBER is above the earth and the heavens. Psalm 148:13 12

Let Heaven and Earth Praise the Lord Reflecting on Psalm 148, Francis of Assisi greater and more glorious than wrote the “Canticle of the Sun” poem in anything on earth (v. 13). The word 1224, that was later paraphrased and set horn (v. 14) may seem out of place, to music. Today, we know it as the hymn but in the original language this word “All Creatures of Our God and King.” symbolizes someone strong, such Like Psalm 148, the poem emphasizes as a king. While the psalmist is most heaven and earth praising the Lord. likely referring to the king of Israel at the time, we know that ultimately all of Did you notice that the expression heaven and earth ought to praise the Praise the Lord bookends this psalm? Lord because of the King of kings, our The psalmist is adamant about lifting up Lord Jesus Christ. praise to the Lord. He calls on those who dwell in the heavenly places to praise Fast forward all the way to the end of Yahweh because He created them (v. 5), the story. In the book of Revelation, the and they continue to exist because of apostle John paints a stunning picture Him (v. 6). Then the psalmist invites the for us as he recalls his vision of all created world to join in. All creatures on creation praising Jesus: “Then I heard land and sea, the spectacle of weather, every creature in heaven and on earth and all of humanity ought to praise the and under the earth and on the sea, and Lord (vv. 7–12). all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be The psalmist reminds us that God praise and honor and glory and power, alone is God, and He is immeasurably for ever and ever!’” (Rev. 5:13).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How can you bookend your day with praises to Will you add these Donor the Lord? When you look at the Lord’s creation, Resource Management what makes you shout “Hallelujah!”? Spend some employees to your prayer list: Patricia Fletcher, Philip Ramos, time today enjoying God’s creation and praise Him Ruth Velaer-Wheeler, and Sharon for His glorious work. Slow down and notice the Cluff? May the Lord give them birds, wind, sunset, or storm today. All of creation daily encouragement and joy as declares the glory and praise of the Lord. they serve Him at Moody.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 17 READ JOHN 3:22–30

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER He must become greater; I must become less. 13 John 3:30

God Deserves All the Praise In the early 1950s, Billy Graham was entire ministry centered on preparing becoming a household name. He had the way for the Christ. In John 1:29, just returned to the United States from he said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who the United Kingdom, where he drew takes away the sin of the world!” The record crowds during his three-month forerunner to Jesus acknowledged, “The crusade. Dining with a friend, Graham man who comes after me has surpassed confessed, “I’m scared I’m going to get me because he was before me” (1:30). the credit for what God is doing, and He knew that he was merely a vessel for that’s just not right.” God to use in order to point His people to the Savior. After a few of John the Baptist’s disciples became jealous that Jesus was Finally, John reminded his disciples baptizing people, they approached their how he viewed himself in comparison teacher and complained (v. 26). John to the Lord of lords. He likened himself swiftly corrected their grumblings, giving to being the best man at a wedding. several reasons not to grumble. First, He was there to serve the groom. His John reminded them that the source of joy was made complete when he saw true ministry is heaven (v. 27). God is the Christ coming for His bride. John’s giver of gifts and the author of life. In purpose was to decrease so that Christ God’s economy, He is the supplier, and might increase. He could have easily we are merely the workers. competed with his cousin for the praises of the people, but instead he chose to Second, John the Baptist addressed shine the spotlight on Christ. He made it Jesus as the Messiah (v. 28). John’s clear that Jesus deserved all the praise.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Your ministry, no matter how big or small, should Paul Santhouse, vice president of be all about God. Billy Graham wanted his ministry Moody Publishers, welcomes your to point to God lest he steal any of His glory. prayers today. With 3.7 million books sold in 2018, 1,200 titles in Praise God for the opportunities He has put before print, in 100+ languages, please you. Whether your ministry is your family, friends, join the Moody Publishers teams or congregation, remember it is not about you. as they thank and praise the Lord. God deserves all the praise.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 2 TIMOTHY 3:10–17

THURSDAY Your word is a lamp for my feet, NOVEMBER a light on my path. Psalm 119:105 14

Praise God for His Word Julia Child motivated many home of its inspiration. Paul tells young chefs in the United States to try French Timothy the Scriptures are breathed cuisine. Her breakthrough cookbook, out from God Himself (v. 16). While Mastering the Art of French Cooking, human writers pen them, God is the was immensely successful and ranks as author. John Koessler explains in The one of the top-selling cookbooks of all Moody Bible Commentary that “God time. Her words and ways have inspired superintended the writing of Scripture multitudes to stretch their culinary skills by his Spirit without blotting out the beyond their initial capabilities. human author’s personality, style, or vocabulary.” Therefore, when we read When it comes to God and His Word, the words of Scripture, we can be we are pushed as well—not in the confident we are reading the words of kitchen, but all throughout our lives. God Himself, written by human hands. More than just a book, God’s Word was held in high regard for early believers Today’s reading reminds us that God and ought to be viewed in the same way still speaks to us today through His today. Scripture serves many functions, Word. If you have access to a Bible, such as correcting, convicting, training, the very words of the Lord are at and ultimately pointing people to the your fingertips. Out of everything that resurrected Redeemer, Jesus Christ you could ever possess, God’s Word (v. 16). stands as the most powerful, influential, and life-changing. Do not miss an The main reason God’s Word is opportunity to read it, study it, and respected and revered is not solely learn from it. While you do, make sure because of its content but also because you are praising God for it.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US As you read Scripture, are you praising God for His Our devotional today gives us a Word? God’s truths have been written, preserved, wonderful opportunity to come printed, and distributed so you can fulfill your God- together as a community of believers to praise God for His given purpose. Praise God today for His unfailing, eternal, inerrant Word. It gives us inerrant Word. Not only does it give us direction life; it sheds light on our heart and but it also gives us the truth about Jesus. on our path. We don’t wander in darkness!

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 19 QUESTION AND ANSWER by Dr. Michael Rydelnik, Professor of Jewish Studies and Open Line Host

Why couldn’t Esau find Several modern translations capture repentance for what he had the nuance of Hebrews 12:17, but the Q done? Was his heart hardened NIV perhaps does it best. It reads, beyond repair, or was his motive “Afterward, as you know, when he unforgivable? wanted to inherit this blessing, he was rejected. Even though he sought Your question is based on the blessing with tears, he could not Hebrews 12:17 which says of change what he had done.” If Esau truly A Esau, “For you know that even wanted to repent of his sin, God would afterwards, when he desired to inherit have responded with mercy and grace, the blessing, he was rejected, for he just as He will for us. As Psalm 51:17 found no place for repentance, though says, “a broken and contrite heart you, he sought for it with tears” (NASB). God, will not despise” (NET). Other translations make it sound as if Esau sincerely sought repentance What does the Bible say and could not find it because he was about cremation versus rejected by God. But that’s not the Q standard burial? If a person meaning of the verse. is cremated, will he or she still have a physical body in the resurrection? The Greek grammar allows two possible antecedents for the word “it.” In English Many people wonder whether we look for the previous noun to match God can raise up a cremated the pronoun. That’s not how the Greek A person at the resurrection. The works. Although the antecedent to “it” answer is simple—if God can raise a could be repentance, it is more likely decomposed body or one lost at sea or that what Esau sought for with tears burned in a house fire, He certainly can was his father’s blessing. Esau had raise someone who has been cremated repented not about doing wrong but into a pile of ashes. The whole idea only about selling the birthright to his of resurrection from the dead is brother. This interpretation is supported miraculous and beyond our capacity by the Genesis account. After Isaac to comprehend. gave the blessing to Jacob, Esau begged his father with tears. Hebrews Although there is no verse of Scripture 12:17 is alluding to Genesis 27:38: “Esau that absolutely forbids it, Mike Fabarez said to his father, ‘Do you only have one gives a biblical case in support of burial blessing, my father? Bless me too, my in his book, 10 Mistakes People Make father!’ And Esau wept loudly.” about Heaven, Hell, and the Afterlife.

20 TODAY IN THE WORD The whole idea of resurrection from the dead is miraculous and beyond our capacity to comprehend.

He begins with Paul’s commentary on funeral you desire. Most important of the value of the created body: “Do you all, make sure you’re ready to meet the not know that your bodies are temples Lord today. We need to trust that Jesus of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, who died for our sins and rose again, so if you have received from God?” (1 Cor. God were to say, “This day your soul is 6:19). Our bodies are sacred vessels required of you,” you’ll be ushered into and worthy of dignity, even after death. His presence and be there forever!

Second, the Bible demonstrates the I just finished a book on a concern people had when burying near-death experience in loved ones. These include Sarah, Q which a lady died, went to Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, heaven, experienced a number of and the Lord Jesus. There was even beautiful things, and returned to a serious effort to give a decent burial earth. What does the Bible say about to the bones of the burned bodies of these types of experiences? King Saul and his sons (1 Sam. 31:8–13). The Bible says, “It is Third, in the Bible, burial was appointed for people to considered a mark of dignity for the A die once—and after this, deceased. Solomon wrote, “A man may judgment” (Heb. 9:27). There were a have a hundred children and live many few exceptions to this general rule— years; yet no matter how long he lives, people like the widow of Zarephath’s if he cannot enjoy his prosperity and son (1 Kings 17:17–24) or Lazarus (John does not receive proper burial, I say 11:1–44) and some others who were that a stillborn child is better off than resurrected from the dead in both he” (Eccl. 6:3). In biblical times, the the Old and the New Testaments. Yet, failure to have a dignified burial was none of these people ever related considered a terrible disgrace. their experiences after death. Although this is an argument from silence, it Whatever decision you make seems their lack of any message about regarding cremation, here are a few heaven indicates that they did not final thoughts. First, don’t worry if a recall their heavenly experience. Only loved one was cremated. God can the Lord Jesus, who was resurrected to raise up stones to praise Him and He immortality, could speak of heaven and can resurrect our bodies from ashes. teach about it. Second, start preparing now for your burial. Save money for the type of

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 21 READ 1 PETER 1:3–7

FRIDAY In his great mercy he has given us new birth NOVEMBER into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 15 1 Peter 1:3

Praise God for a Certain Hope In the classic television game show, Let’s how Peter felt when he heard that not Make a Deal, contestants competed only was Jesus alive but He still wanted for the chance to choose a door that to include him. concealed a prize. Winners would decide whether to open door 1, 2, or 3. No wonder Peter started his letter If they chose well, they might receive a talking about his living hope in the dream vacation or a shiny new car. But living Jesus (1 Peter 1:3). For Peter, his if they chose poorly, they could end up life changed that Sunday morning, with a year’s supply of chili or a pet goat. and it changed for you and me, too. Often the valuable prize they hoped for Peter wanted those Christians, and us, was not behind the chosen door. to know we ought to praise the Lord because of Jesus’ power over sin and The early Christians lived for a certain death. Our inheritance in Christ Jesus is hope in Christ Jesus. This hit home “kept in heaven” (v. 4), and it’s so much for Peter, a disciple and close friend more than a game show prize. Phil of Jesus. After recognizing his failure Wickham’s song Our Living Hope sums to stick with Jesus (Mark 14:66–72), it up well: “Then came the morning that Peter moved from the inner circle to the sealed the promise / Your buried body outskirts. That is why three days later, began to breathe / Out of the silence, the angel told the women at the empty the Roaring Lion / Declared the grave tomb to go “tell his disciples and Peter” has no claim on me / Jesus, Yours is that Jesus was alive (Mark 16:7). Imagine the victory!”

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Christianity rises and falls on the resurrection of Today is Day One at Moody—a Jesus. Let us praise the Lord, because time when future students and the resurrection proved that Jesus did not their families get acquainted with MBI and its faculty. Dr. Heather fall . . . He arose! Our hope is not in people or Shalley, VP of Student Enrollment establishments. We have a certain and living hope, Services, appreciates your prayers the resurrection of Christ Jesus. Put your trust in for this important milestone for Him, and you will have a great inheritance waiting. future Moody students.

22 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 146

SATURDAY I heard what sounded like the roar of a great NOVEMBER multitude in heaven shouting: “Hallelujah!” Revelation 19:1 16

Praise God, Hallelujah! I don’t know about you, but I have Psalmist literally writes, “I will halleluijah started more books than I have finished. all my life.” But what does the life of I’m just not always able to make it to the praise look like? The Psalmist goes end. However, the last five chapters of on to tell us that the person who Psalms are so incredibly life giving that lives this life does not put their trust to miss them would be like sleeping in princes or moral men (vv. 3–4), through Thanksgiving Day dinner. but rather in Yahweh, the “Maker of heaven and earth” (vv. 5–6). Verses 7–9 These last five chapters are sometimes expound upon Yahweh’s justice for the referred to as The Hallelujah Psalms. oppressed and righteousness for the This title is appropriate, since each troubled. The final verse concludes by psalm begins and ends with the acknowledging Yahweh’s eternal reign phrase “Praise the Lord” The word for all generations. Then, just as the Lord is often in capital letters in our psalm began, the Psalmist proclaims, English Bibles, because in the original “Hallelujah!” language, this is the word Yahweh. It is also important to note that the This psalm, like the four that follow, Hebrew word Hallelu means “praise.” begins and ends with praise to Yahweh. Therefore, when we put the Hallelu and It also goes deep and draws attention Yah together we get Hallelujah, which to why one should praise Yahweh all means “Praise the Lord.” of one’s life. Let us not forget that God has called us to hallelujah all our lives In our text today, we see the phrase as well. repeated four times. In verse 2, the

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When people look at your life, do they see praise? Today, as we study The Hallelujah To be more specific, when someone looks at the Psalms with Today in the Word, beginning, middle, or end of your day or week, do our prayer is that God will help us to praise Him like David did, they see you praising the Lord? At what time do to permeate our days with the you struggle most with praising the Lord? Perhaps phrase “Praise the Lord!”, and to whenever you don’t feel like praising the Lord, “hallelujah” Him with our lives. read one of The Hallelujah Psalms.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 23 READ 2 CHRONICLES 5:1–14

SUNDAY Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually NOVEMBER offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 17 Hebrews 13:15

Praise God for His Dwelling Place Spend a few moments watching the Voices from all over joined together HGTV or the DIY channel and you’ll and sang praises to God. soon grasp that people love creating the perfect place to kick up their feet Can you imagine the atmosphere? The and settle down. Home is not only entire place was full of God’s people where the heart is, it is where we shouting praises to God with their choose to dwell and reside. whole hearts (v. 13). Everyone was there for a singular purpose: to praise For years, the God of the universe God because His holy dwelling place chose to dwell with His people in was finally being established. In this temporary housing. In our passage moment, God Almighty filled the temple today, Solomon had completed building with a cloud of glory, which signified the temple, a place where God could that He had taken up residence in reside and where His people would the temple while all the people had worship Him (v. 1). This was a very gathered to praise Him (v. 13). important moment for the Israelites. King Solomon wanted the elders and If we fast forward to the good news the leaders of all the tribes of Israel of today, the God of the universe no to witness this event. In an effort to longer dwells in the Jerusalem temple, bring great honor and praise to God, but through the indwelling of the Holy the priests offered sheep and oxen as Spirit He resides in the lives of those a sacrifice (v. 6). It was a tremendous who believe in the saving work of Jesus gathering, and Solomon wanted to Christ (1 Cor. 3:16). Praise Him! Praise make sure God received all the praise. Him! Praise Him!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today, when you gather to worship with your Will you join us in giving thanks church family, praise God for all the people you for the house of the Lord where know who have opened their lives and made a He dwells with His people? We thank God for the physical church home for the Lord in their hearts. Pray for other buildings where we gather for people in your life who have not yet opened their services, but more importantly, hearts to God’s truth—but do not stop praising for the living stones, our fellow Him, for He is still knocking. believers—the body of Christ.

24 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 2 CORINTHIANS 4:7–18

MONDAY We are the clay, you are the potter; NOVEMBER we are all the work of your hand. Isaiah 64:8 18

The Foundation for Thanksgiving Do you have a favorite coffee mug? I indwelling we reveal the death and have a few that are special to me. Even resurrection of Jesus Christ (v. 10). though they are scratched and chipped, I still pick them first. They have always What does it mean that Christ lives in done their job of delivering my beloved us? Paul tells us that by the Holy Spirit, morning coffee or tea. who indwells us, we have strength to speak boldly (v. 13). But more so, we Near the beginning of his letter to the can be confident that our broken lives Corinthians, Paul attempts to convince will be made whole because of Jesus’ his readers that each one of them has resurrection (v. 14a). When we are extreme worth, dignity, and value even presented before the Father, He will not though they are going through hardship. see us as cracked vessels, but instead, He compares the earthly body to a jar of He’ll see the perfect life of Christ Jesus clay. Jars of clay were a basic household who dwells in us (v. 14b). necessity in the first century, holding provisions such as water, wine, or food. When we carry Jesus inside of us, not Even if the jars were cracked or chipped, only will we live in confidence of our their value was based on the content final standing with the Lord, but grace they held. Paul wants his readers to will pour out of our lives so that more know the same is true for believers in and more people will be reached for Jesus, that “this all-surpassing power is His glory. This outpouring of grace from God and not from us” (v. 7). Even that reaches others ought to cause though believers may appear broken “thanksgiving to overflow to the glory and cracked, through the Holy Spirit’s of God” (v. 15).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How is grace flowing out of your life today? As you Employees from Moody’s Media go about your day, perhaps ask yourself, “What is ministries belong to different the most gracious thing I can do in this situation?” departments, but they form one team serving the entire Institute, If our broken lives overflow with grace because of with senior vice president of the Lord’s resurrection power living inside of us, Media, Greg Thornton, as their our thankfulness will be endless because grace is leader. We ask you to lift them up the foundation for thanksgiving. in prayer today.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 25 READ LUKE 7:36–50

TUESDAY Be kind and compassionate to one another, NOVEMBER forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. 19 Ephesians 4:32

Thankfulness Flows from Forgiveness Days after my wife gave birth to our third flows out of forgiveness. He shared child, I made the mistake of forgetting to a parable about a moneylender who bring home ice cream from the grocery forgave two men’s debts (vv. 41–42). store. While I made it home in record Then Jesus related it to the scene that time with (almost) everything else on the was occurring at His feet. list, I had forgotten the most important item . . . chocolate brownie ice cream! The woman in our text today would Obviously, I was in need of forgiveness! have most likely been well known in If Jesus walked the earth today, this that town, but for all the wrong reasons. could easily have been the beginning Luke doesn’t tell us exactly what her of one of His parables. sin was, but the text indicates that most people knew about it and she was In today’s text, Jesus told a parable ashamed of what she had been doing during a dinner party at a Pharisee’s or had done (v. 39). This is why her home. A woman interrupted the actions toward Jesus took incredible gathering by weeping at Jesus’ feet. courage. Despite what others thought, She then wiped His feet with her hair she stopped at nothing to demonstrate and doused them with expensive her thankfulness, perhaps because she perfume. As the Pharisee watched this knew she was in the presence of One generous act of kindness, he could not who was not going to demean, take believe what his eyes were witnessing advantage of, or criticize her. She was (v. 39). Sensing the Pharisee’s thoughts, in the presence of someone who could Jesus turned this incident into a offer her forgiveness. Her abundance teaching moment His host and the of thankfulness flowed from Jesus’ guests would remember: Thankfulness forgiveness.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Your private life may not be as exposed to your Join us in prayer for the staff of community as that of the woman’s in today’s WFCM, Moody Radio station in text, but it is on display for our heavenly Father. Nashville, Tenn. Thousands of listeners depend on Scott Thunder, He sees your sins and mine, yet He offers us Michael Powers, Dawn Rae May, forgiveness. Today, thank God for His forgiveness. and Jonathan Garrison for daily And since your sins are forgiven, be quick to encouragement from the Word. We forgive others . . . even if they forget the ice cream. are thankful for their service!

26 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 1 THESSALONIANS 5:12–18

WEDNESDAY Rejoice always, pray continually, NOVEMBER give thanks in all circumstances. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 20

Thanking God in All Circumstances Sometimes God puts us in situations In the final two chapters of his letter, Paul that make and mold us into the people challenges his readers to grow by living He wants us to become. It may be easy a counter-cultural lifestyle. In our text when those situations don’t come with today, Paul gives a few final instructions much opposition, but when things get on how to do this. Along with living tough, that is when the real challenges respectfully, peacefully, and kindly, Paul begin. admonishes them to be joyful always, pray continually, and to give thanks in Many scholars believe 1 Thessalonians all circumstances (vv. 16–18). If there is most likely the earliest letter we have was one person who had the authority from the apostle Paul. He and Silas had and experience to talk the talk and walk visited Thessalonica where many people the walk it would have been Paul. He were converted to Christianity and had had seen his fair share of good times begun to gather and worship in the and bad, and regardless of situation, he name of Jesus. However, in Acts 17 we thanked God in all circumstances. read that the Jewish leaders became jealous and the Gentile rulers became One of the interesting things about threatened that people were defying verses 16–18 is that it is one long Caesar and proclaiming Jesus as the sentence. Permanent joyfulness, one, true king. This led to persecution continual prayer, and constant against Christians in the city. Yet, thankfulness go together. Paul despite persecution, the believers in concludes by stating that all of these Thessalonica continued to stand firm in actions are God’s will for the people their faith (1 Thess. 3:7–8). in Thessalonica. We can say that it is God’s will for us, too.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US You may be experiencing difficult times right now, Moody Radio expands to South and perhaps giving thanks to God is the farthest Carolina and honors its longtime thing from your mind. You may think, “Well, if only radio pastor, C. Donald Cole, with the newest station’s call letters, Paul knew my circumstances, he wouldn’t have WCDC. Please support in prayer written that.” Paul may not have known your story, the ministry of this Moody Radio but the Holy Spirit does. Through hardship you station in Charleston, S.C. may learn lessons you could learn no other way.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 27 READ PSALM 57:4–11

THURSDAY NOVEMBER Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. 21 Colossians 3:23

Praise God at Work According to the Rosen Institute, several David knew God was to be exalted, signs indicate when a workplace has praised, and lifted up among the nations gone into survival mode: everything is regardless of his circumstances. When urgent, appointments are constantly God delivered him, David did not shy missed or rescheduled, stress is away from praising the Lord with both overwhelming, there is little to no joy, his heart and his words. A chorus and everyone is reactionary. Even if just repeats in verses 5 and 11: “Be exalted, one of these signs is present, it might O God, above the heavens; let your be an indication that you or members of glory be over all the earth.” He was a your team are merely surviving. Perhaps musician, after all, and could not help you are at a point in your life when you but sing about what the Lord had done. can relate to these signs, whether in the workplace or at home. Perhaps the Lord has brought you through some difficult times as well. In today’s reading, David was in that When all you could think about was place. He was fleeing from Saul and survival, God was thinking about your had one job: to survive. Nonetheless, growth. One way we can measure our he turned his attention away from his spiritual growth is to see how often we circumstances and toward the nature praise the Lord with our words and our and person of God. He identified his lives. His praise should be continually obstacles: “I am in the midst of lions; on our lips. I am forced to dwell among ravenous beasts” (v. 4). Even when his enemies plotted against him (v. 6), God was his protection and his deliverance.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Our lives should be a witness for the Lord, Keeping with today’s devotional, especially in the workplace. How can you glorify thank the Lord for your job the Lord at work this week? Maybe you need and the ability to work. Let’s remember to give Him credit for to show grace to a coworker or a customer, or all our career accomplishments. perhaps when you receive praises, you can credit “Whatever you do, work at it with the Lord’s goodness. Praise God that He has given all your heart, as working for the you a job and He is able to use it for His glory. Lord” (Col. 3:23).

28 TODAY IN THE WORD READ PSALM 13

FRIDAY I trust in your unfailing love; NOVEMBER my heart rejoices in your salvation. Psalm 13:5 22

Praise God When We Hurt The U.S. Navy SEALs train rigorously so David repeats a cry to the Lord four they can endure demanding and painful times in Psalm 13: “How long . . . ” circumstances. Their slogan, “The (vv. 1–2). His prayers are authentic, and only easy day was yesterday,” is both his pain is real. He wrestles with his encouraging and challenging. On the thoughts and feels that God is hidden one hand, it means one has persevered from him. When we hurt, often thoughts through a strenuous time, but on the may be the same, “How long will I other hand, it’s sobering because the experience this?” “How long until the current and future days are possibly wrong is made right?” “How long until I even more exhausting. Life poses the can find peace again?” But notice that same challenge for all of us. Sometimes even when the future seemed bleak, we walk through such an unbearable David’s trust was in God’s unfailing love. seasons in our lives that the prospect of tomorrow can seem overwhelming. David concludes his psalm with singing because he is certain God still has the If there was ever a man in the Bible whole world in His hands. “I will sing who faced difficult life situations, yet the Lord’s praise for He has been good still praised God, it was David. He to me” (v. 6). This was not the first time was familiar with pain, but also with David experienced hurt, and it would not praise. His life was a roller coaster of be the last. The same is true for you and experiences and emotions. His best me. But every time David encountered friend’s dad had it out for him, he lost a pain, he praised the Lord. child at birth, his kids were a mess—but through all the hurting and pain, he continually praised the Lord.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US It is said that courage isn’t having the strength Moody’s executive vice president, to go on; it’s going on even when you don’t have Mark Wagner, often faces strength. The next time you encounter hurt and challenging decisions that require determination, resolve, and pain, perhaps you can find the courage to praise sensitivity to God’s leading. He the Lord. Begin by giving Him praise for the little welcomes your prayer support for things in your life. One small step at a time, the him and his teams. Lord wants to take you on a journey.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 29 READ DANIEL 2:1–23

SATURDAY NOVEMBER We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. 23 Romans 8:28

Praising God for Answers Questions knock on the door of our Daniel was not only able to tell the king lives every day, some simple and some what his dream was, but also what it complex. Sometimes we know the meant. When the king’s men attempted answers. Sometimes we can only find to put him to death, Daniel spoke, “with them after searching. Other times we wisdom and tact” (v. 14). Then he did the are left scratching our heads. But when one thing he always did when needing we do find an answer, how quick are we guidance, he prayed (vv. 17–18). That to praise the Lord? night, the Lord gave Daniel the answers and he praised “the God of heaven” In today’s text, King Nebuchadnezzar (v. 19). The magi were right, no man on was seeking for answers to a puzzling earth could do what the king requested, dream that was keeping him up at but this was a simple task for “the God night (v. 1). All the king’s wizards and of heaven.” astrologers were also searching for the answer. When faced with the After the mystery was revealed, they king’s order to give him the correct praised God with words that reflected interpretation or die (v. 5), they the very nature of His supreme rule and responded, “There is not a man on reign. They highlighted God’s wisdom, earth who can do what the king asks!” power, authority, omniscience, and (v. 10). might. They also praised God because He gave Daniel “wisdom and power” That statement opened the door for (v. 23). Praise God that He continues to God’s man, Daniel. Because of his give His followers wisdom to know what personal relationship with the Almighty, to do and the power to do it.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When challenging situations come your way, Web Technologies staff, part of perhaps you can pause and pray like Daniel our IT department, serve all did: “Lord, give me the wisdom I need, and the Moody’s ministries with their computer expertise. We are grateful strength to endure.” If answers do come your way, for Drew Smith, Ian Cunningham, don’t forget to praise the Lord. In His goodness Peter Distler, and Victor Lebron and grace, He chose to reveal a mystery that could who use their technological ability have kept you anxious and stressed. for God’s glory.

30 TODAY IN THE WORD READ HEBREWS 10:19–25

SUNDAY Let us consider how we may spur one NOVEMBER another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:24 24

Praise God for the Church If you were going to describe our by learning, encouraging, and reflecting world today, the words peace, love, on the One in whom we have placed and understanding might not come to our hope. The author of Hebrews mind. The church, however, is called commends us to “hold unswervingly to to a higher standard. God’s people the hope we profess” (v. 23). We are not are called to be one body in Christ, to waver from our faith but constantly where everyone is valued and viewed draw near to God. Being a part of the as significant. Instead of tearing one church gives us the opportunity to grow another down, we are to encourage and spiritually from the pulpit and the Word, lift up our brothers and sisters in Christ. as well as from one another as brothers Instead of fighting against one another, and sisters in Christ. Praise God for the we are called to love one another. church!

This notion of church made the early The author of Hebrews reminds us believers stand against the Roman of the importance of “not giving up Empire during the first few centuries meeting together” (v. 25). In the 21st after the resurrection of Jesus. century, gathering on a Sunday morning Christians began assembling together, may have become overly ritualistic for providing for one another, praising God, some and occasionally rare for others, and serving their communities, even in but it does not have to be. Gathering the midst of intense persecution. Praise regularly has a purpose. Church is a time God for the church! of seeking God, uplifting others, and praising the Savior. When the church is During communal gatherings, the true to its calling, it can be a glimpse of church has the opportunity to worship heaven. Praise God for the church!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The Word of God says we ought to praise God for Ken Heulitt, chief financial officer, the church. Of course the church has flaws and brings wisdom, insight, and imperfections—it is comprised of sinners. Despite financial integrity to his service at Moody Bible Institute. Will you its blemishes, however, let’s praise God for the pray for Ken and the teams he church, and this week let someone in your church leads, asking the Lord to bless this know you are praising God for them. vital area of Moody life.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 31 READ ROMANS 11:33–36

MONDAY NOVEMBER For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! 25 Romans 11:36

Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow In the middle of his deeply theological between the Creator and the created. letter to the Christians in Rome, Paul His final question may cause those in cannot contain himself. Bursting onto the heavenly realms to chuckle: “Who the pages of Scripture is his doxology— has ever given to God, that God should his glorious sayings regarding God. repay them?” (v. 35). Once again, the This is not the first time Paul has broken answer is no one. the ordinary rhythm of his letters to stop and praise the Lord—evidence Paul concludes his glorious praise the that Paul’s life continually overflowed same way he began—making sure he with praises to God. has a proper perspective of the One who deserves all the glory and praise. In today’s reading, Paul begins this doxology by praising God’s infinite When we understand who God is and wisdom, knowledge, and ways. what He has done, praises to Him will He is determined to have a proper increasingly overflow from our lives. perspective of God so he can As we begin this Thanksgiving week, accurately praise Him. Paul continues it’s important to remember that our by quoting a series of rhetorical perspective precedes our praise. It’s questions from Isaiah 40:13 (v. 34) and important for us to break the rhythm Job 41:11 (v. 35) that leave the reader of our daily lives and journey together utterly speechless when facing the through Scripture to discover more of God of creation. Of course, no one has who God is and why He deserves our known the mind of the Lord, nor would utmost praise. Remember, your story is God ever require counsel. Paul reminds for His glory. Praise Him from whom all us of the roles and relationships blessings flow!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In 1674, Thomas Ken wrote the words of this well- Let’s come to God in prayer today, known doxology for his students to sing every acknowledging that everything morning and evening. Take a moment to praise we have indeed comes from Him. When we strive to know God aloud with these words: Praise God, from God better, to understand who Whom all blessings flow / Praise Him, all creatures He is and what He has done for here below / Praise Him, above the heavenly host us, our hearts will overflow with / Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost / Amen. thanksgiving and praise.

32 TODAY IN THE WORD READ LUKE 17:11–19

TUESDAY I will give thanks to you, Lord , with all my heart; NOVEMBER I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1 26

Praise God with Thankfulness In our culture, an entire market is Imagine the ecstasy they felt as they dedicated to expressing gratitude. started to look down at their hands, then Businesses like Hallmark and their arms, and then their legs and feet. 1-800-FLOWERS have made it easier They realized they were not just healed than ever to say thank you to special but “cleansed” (v. 14). Then something people in our lives. However, we can even more incredible happened. One of still forget to express appreciation the ten, identified here as a Samaritan to our family, coworkers, neighbors, (v. 16), paused and returned to Jesus to and friends. This isn’t a problem only give thanks. He stopped, did an about- for us today, it has been an issue for face, and made a beeline for Jesus. generations. This time, instead of having to yell, In our reading today, we find ten people “Unclean, unclean,” he could go directly with a horrible skin disease (v. 11). Not through the crowd praising God with a only were they in tremendous physical loud voice. He fell at the feet of Jesus pain, but they also suffered emotional and gave thanks. Jesus responded, and spiritual hardship. If you were “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are diagnosed with this particular disease in the other nine?” (v. 17). All those healed those days, you were as good as dead. that day were grateful, but only one By law you were forced to leave your turned around and turned his gratitude family, friends, job, and live with others into thankfulness and praise. who had a similar affliction. You were not allowed to worship in the temple. But one day, all of that changed: Jesus showed up, and they were made clean.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US What are you grateful for today? Like the man As vice president and associate who returned to say “thanks,” will you turn your provost, Dr. Bryan O’Neal gratitude into action? Even in the midst of your implements the long-term vision of the Moody education and busy schedule, pause and turn your grateful also focuses on many immediate into thankful. Let others know by writing a practical details. Today, lift to God thank-you note. It is one thing to be grateful, but in prayer all the responsibilities of thankfulness puts praise into action. his leadership role.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 33 READ MATTHEW 21:1–11

WEDNESDAY Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. NOVEMBER From the house of the Lord we bless you. 27 Psalm 118:26

Greetings with Thanks and Praise According to AAA, the day before Their praise of Jesus caused the Thanksgiving in the United States is entire city to sit up, pay attention, and one of the busiest travel days of the wonder who was coming (v. 10). The year. People travel by car or airplane, crowds’ response gives us a glimpse some going long distances, to celebrate into the reason they would later turn the holiday with family and friends. For on Jesus and approve His crucifixion. Jesus and His disciples, one of the They believed He was a prophet from busiest travel days of the year was when Nazareth (v. 11). The crowds showed the Jewish people would flood into their thanks and praise of someone they Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. thought was a prophet. They completely missed who Jesus really was—the Our passage today highlights Jesus’ Messiah, the Savior of the world. journey to Jerusalem days before Passover. Instead of arriving in an As you gather with your loved ones this intimidating motorcade displaying His holiday, will your thanksgiving and praise power and might, Jesus traveled on the of the Lord cause others to ask, “Who back of a humble donkey, thus fulfilling is this Jesus?” If they do, I hope you the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. The are able to give them an answer. Jesus crowds took notice of Jesus’ arrival and is not just someone to be appreciated welcomed Him with praise. Some went because of the things He has done, He ahead and others followed, but they all is to receive thanks and praise because shouted, “Hosanna!” which is a Hebrew of who He is, the Savior of the world. expression meaning “Save!” (Matt. 21:8–9). Hosanna is also an exclamation of praise.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US If you are welcoming people into your home this In preparation for tomorrow’s Thanksgiving, treat them as if you were welcoming Thanksgiving holiday, let’s thank Jesus. You don’t need to treat them as “Savior,” our Father for His Holy Spirit, His amazing presence in our lives, but perhaps you could go above and beyond to His mercy, and His overwhelming make them feel loved. If you are traveling, perhaps love. Imitating Christ, let’s serve arrive with a humble attitude and spirit, looking to others with humility. serve and not to be served.

34 TODAY IN THE WORD READ REVELATION 21:1–5

Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! THURSDAY For the wedding of the Lamb has come, NOVEMBER and his bride has made herself ready. Revelation 19:7 28

Every Day Is Thanks Giving Sometimes I get so full at Thanksgiving them” (v. 3). The last time God dwelt dinner I skip dessert. This is unfortunate with mankind was the incarnation of because the end of the meal with its Christ when “the Word became flesh pumpkin pie and whipped cream is one and made His dwelling among us” of the best parts. (John 1:14). Before the incarnation, God walked with humanity in the Garden of The vision John describes at the end Eden (Genesis 2). John is witnessing of the book of Revelation is definitely Eden being restored and followers of one that sparks thanksgiving. He Christ reunited with the resurrected begins by seeing the Holy City, the new Christ. This will be the time when all Jerusalem, looking as beautiful as a pain, mourning, and death will finally bride on her wedding day (vv. 1–2). Can be exterminated (v. 4), and everything anything be better than this sight? The will be made new (v. 5). answer is yes, because what he hears next gives clarity to what he witnessed. Just ponder that for a moment. The Not only does John note that it was a God of the universe could dwell loud voice but he identifies where the anywhere, and yet, He has chosen to voice was coming from—a throne. This be with sinners like you and me. As is significant because it indicates that a result of Him allowing us to be in the following words come from a place His presence, there will be no more of triumph and authority. suffering, only love, joy, and peace. You have a lot to be thankful for today, The voice John hears proclaims: “Look! but John’s revelation gives us a lot to God’s dwelling place is now among be thankful for every day. the people, and he will dwell with

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US As you celebrate Thanksgiving with family and We pray this month’s study in friends, take time to thank God for who He is and Today in the Word will enrich your for what He has done. And, consider the feast Thanksgiving celebration. As you gather around the table with we will one day have with the King of kings when family and friends, or even if you we are reunited with Him. We will dwell with Him prefer to be alone, take time to forever. Today, tell Him how thankful you are for remember the One who is worthy your bright tomorrow. of all thanksgiving and praise.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 35 READ 1 CHRONICLES 29:1–20

FRIDAY NOVEMBER For everything in heaven and earth is yours. 29 1 Chronicles 29:11

A Proper Perspective Produces Praise People have been lining up, even Solomon to finish the job. However, before this day began, to get bargains before he was completely done, he from their favorite stores. There is no taught his son and the Lord’s people doubt they are committed to getting that when it comes to wealth, a proper the best deals. Nothing is wrong with perspective produces praise. King shopping, but a day like Black Friday is David led the people in generous giving a good time to pause and consider our (vv. 1–9) and followed by leading them perspective on earthly possessions. in an abundance of praise (vv. 10–20).

In our reading, David’s boyish good He begins by praising God because looks are a thing of his past. His ruddy He is an eternal God (v. 10) who has red hair has now turned gray, and he all the power, glory, majesty, and has more wrinkles than he can count. splendor (v. 11). In His hands are wealth, Running for miles was never a problem, honor, strength, and power (v. 12). but David finds himself winded from David praises the Lord because he walking up a flight of stairs. One last acknowledges that everything he and thing the Lord wanted him to do before the Israelites have comes from the his last breath on earth was to build a Lord. This truth is even more evident in place of worship where the Ark of the verses 14 and 16. David’s perspective Covenant could rest. on the possessions God has given him allows him to lead the Lord’s people Therefore, David drew plans, rolled during this time of thanks and praise. them up, and handed them to his son

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US If you are a leader in your church, work, or home, Coming to the end of our study, people are watching your example just like the reflect on this month’s theme and Israelites under King David. Hunting for the best ask God for deeper understanding of gratitude and praise. May we deals and purchasing holiday gifts is not wrong, have the heart of the psalmist who but when you do, make sure you do it with the said, “Praise the Lord, my soul, proper perspective on money and stewardship. and forget not all his benefits” Remember, a proper perspective produces praise. (Ps. 103:2).

36 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 2 CORINTHIANS 9:6–11

SATURDAY Each of us should please our neighbors NOVEMBER for their good, to build them up. Romans 15:2 30

Showing Thanks in Small Ways Small Business Saturday began in Paul acknowledges that what we give America in 2010 and in the United or “sow” returns to us in abundance. Kingdom in 2013. City officials noticed He is not saying that we will necessarily consumers were overlooking smaller profit monetarily. Rather, Paul is saying shops and local businesses. On this day, that our generosity will “enlarge the customers are encouraged to purchase harvest of your righteousness” (v. 10), items from small local businesses giving this passage a decidedly eternal instead of choosing the big box retailers perspective. or e-commerce stores. In order to have a growing and fair economy these small In verse 11, Paul claims that the businesses are vital. generosity the Corinthians showed him and his companions directly caused Our passage today does not speak thanksgiving to God. He does not tell about the value of small businesses, but us specifically who is giving thanks to it does speak about the importance of God, whether it is him, his companions, being known as generous people. While or the ones who are able to hear the many use these verses to promote the message of the gospel because of “prosperity gospel,” Paul’s main idea Paul’s missionary work. God receives here is for believers to sow generously thanksgiving because of the Corinthians’ with good intentions, despite one’s generosity. When you give with a wealth. A person ought to give to the cheerful heart, it opens the opportunity work of the Lord out of a cheerful heart for others to thank God. Don’t miss an (v. 7). Perhaps Paul realizes that some opportunity to sow a seed of generosity. people give to get something in return: assets, possessions, or acclamation.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US As we conclude this study, think of a way you can In conclusion of this month’s give and spur on thankfulness to God. Is there a Bible study, praise the Lord for small business in your community that is trying to His truth that truly sets us free. It’s a joy and a privilege to study shine God’s light in the marketplace? Is there an the Scripture and pray together organization that is sharing the gospel with others? with the Moody community. Thank Perhaps you can generously bless them today, and you for your prayers and financial others will thank God because of you! support of this ministry!

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 37 A Thanks-Filled Puzzle for You!

ACROSS DOWN 3 An expression of admiration and delight 1 For Christians, this is certain (1 Peter 1:3) 8 The disciples and we give thanks for this 2 A Hebrew expression meaning “save” 9 Jesus broke bread to represent His . . . 4 Makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise 10 Musical instrument in David’s day 5 He thanked God, even from prison 11 We give thanks to God for He is . . . (1 Thessalonians 5) 15 A prayer said before meals 6 Phrase often repeated in the psalms 16 Enter the temple or church with . . . (3 words) (Psalm 100) 7 Hymn of praise to start and end the day 17 Literally, Praise the Lord 12 Nine forgot to say this (2 words) 18 Represents a plow and a promise 13 Jesus restored this to the beggar (Matthew 11) in Luke 18 20 Expensive object used to anoint Jesus’ 14 Appreciating what someone has done

feet (Luke 7) 19 God promises this in Matthew 11

Rest 19 Thankful, 14 Sight, 13 You, Thank 12 Doxology, 7

Down: Lord, the Praise 6 Paul, 5 Sleep, 4 Hosanna, 2 Hope, 1 Perfume 20 Yoke, 18 Hallelujah, 17

ANSWERS Across: Thanksgiving, 16 Grace, 15 Good, 11 Harp, 10 Body, 9 Resurrection, 8 Praise, 3 Learn Something New this Christmas This year, discover something you never knew about the story you’ve always heard as you get to know the minor, often- overlooked characters of Christmas.

Get your copy today at MOODYPUBLISHERS.COM or wherever books are sold. FEBRUARY 4–7, 2020

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

with Priscilla Shirer, Francis Chan, and Dr. Mark Jobe Alumni Day: Friday, February 7 • moodyconferences.org

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