AUGUST 2017

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5

IMAGES OF LIGHT AND DARKNESS IN SCRIPTURE

A devotional from

TIW_August_2017_4C_ic.indd 1 5/19/17 3:19 PM TODAY WITH DR. PAUL NYQUIST President of Moody Global Ministries

Light Changes Everything One of the great joys will not walk in the darkness but will of my life is being have the Light of life” (John 8:12). Like called “Grandpa” by the sun that illuminates our world, Jesus our six grandchildren, provides clarity and truth. He is the ages 1 to 6. And now source of life; through Him we grow that our own children and thrive. are fully grown, Cheryl and I have a renewed love for If you have ever gone to bed early ordinary parenting moments such as only to have someone turn on a lamp, tucking little ones into bed. you realize it is difficult to partially illuminate a room. Once a light switch is Sometimes, after we say a prayer and turned on, it cuts through darkness. In read a bedtime story, they’ll call out the same way, when we accept Christ to us because they are afraid. In the as our Savior, His light cuts through darkness, they imagine a monster the darkness of our lives. We can see lying in wait. And I get to be the hero clearly and understand spiritual things of the story, turning on the light switch previously hidden from us. to show them that no one is under the bed or in the closet. With the room fully The Bible says, “God is Light, and in illuminated, their fears are put to rest. Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). We, too, are called to be light in Light changes everything, doesn’t it? this dark world. As we reflect Christ in Is it any wonder that Jesus referred our lives, we shed His light in the world to Himself as the Light of the World? around us. Proverbs 4:18 says, “But the Trapped by sin in spiritual darkness, path of the righteous is like the light of previously blind to His truth, our path dawn, that shines brighter and brighter is now clearly illuminated by the Light until the full day.” of God. While sometimes we may be unnerved by the darkness in the world The next time you turn on a light switch around us, we can rest assured that or see the sun rising over the edge of God’s perfect light casts out fear. the horizon, remember that we serve the Light of the World, and you and I are Jesus said to His disciples, “I am the called to reflect His light to others. Light Light of the world; he who follows Me changes everything. n

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TIW_August_2017_4C_ic.indd 2 5/19/17 3:19 PM THEOLOGY MATTERS by Dr. John Koessler

God and Sin umanity has long wrestled with his offspring were guilty of and inclined the question of the origin of sin toward sin. Hand evil. As the Creator of all things, did God create evil? Are good Sin entered the world through Adam, and evil equal forces in the universe? but it did not begin with him (Rom. 5:12–14). Satan was created prior to According to Jesus, God alone is good Adam and was the first to fall into sin (Mark 10:18; Luke 18:19). Jesus meant (Luke 10:18). Like Adam, Satan was more than that God meets a standard, created with a capacity to either obey characterized as good. He meant that or disobey God’s command. Satan fell good does not exist apart from God. into sin when he aspired not merely God is perfect and is incapable of sin to be like God but to replace Him (Isa. (Matt. 5:48). Since God alone is good, 14:12–15; Matt. 4:9–10). This ambition good can only come from God. was reflected in Satan’s appeal to Eve to eat the forbidden fruit in order to Sin and evil were not part of God’s “be like God” (Gen. 3:4–5). original creation. When God initially assessed all that He had made, He Some religions (especially Eastern concluded that it was “very good” religions) explain God’s relation to sin (Gen. 1:31). Not only was this true of as an aspect of God, a counter- creation which reflected His glory, it balancing facet of His nature. Others was especially true of Adam and Eve, who refuse to make God responsible who were expressly made in God’s for evil claim that it has always been a image (Gen. 1:26). Because Adam and factor in creation, making it coexistent Eve were created good, they were with and autonomous from God. The created with the ability to obey. When Bible rejects both views. Evil began God placed Adam in the Garden, He with Satan’s rebellion and entered into commanded him not to eat of the tree human experience through Adam’s sin. of the knowledge of good and evil Evil rejected the only One who is the (Gen. 2:16–17). Prior to his sin, Adam true source of good. n had the capacity both to obey and to disobey. What Adam did not yet have FOR FURTHER STUDY was a proclivity for sin. This changed To learn more about God and the origin after Adam disobeyed. When Adam fell, of evil, read Genesis 1-11: Creation, his nature changed so that he and all Sin, and the Nature of God by John MacArthur (Thomas Nelson).

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TIW_August_2017_4C_ic.indd 3 6/2/17 7:15 AM TODAY AT MOODY

Graduates from Moody School of the Bible in Ghana This August, we celebrate the first For this program, Theovision staff group of African pastors and church members traveled to the Akan- or leaders to graduate from the Moody Twi-speaking areas looking for pastors School of the Bible program in Ghana. or church leaders in rural communities Dr. Paul Nyquist, president of Moody who had little or no Bible education. Global Ministries, traveled to Ghana to From these applicants, 250 people congratulate the graduates. were selected to participate. The project required transcribing the With the assistance of Theovision, Moody Radio audio programs and Moody Radio translated and recorded then translating them into Akan, the classes of Moody’s long-running local language. The resulting programs program Radio School of the Bible on were recorded on solar-powered audio solar-powered audio players, providing devices, designed for use in rural areas pastors and church leaders in rural with limited access to electricity. villages with access to theological and biblical education. One participant, Joshua Afari, said, “This device, with Bible courses in Theodore Asare, founder of Theovision, our language, is going to be helpful agrees. “Moody Radio School of the to everyone, especially to those who Bible in the Akan language is one of cannot read, and in rural villages where the best things that has happened in there is no electricity. Through this our ministry of reaching Africa’s oral oral School of the Bible, Christianity cultures with God’s Word,” he says. will see a lot of progress in our part of “This training is the first of its kind that the world.” I know of in Ghana. Already, other language groups are asking for such The program addresses an urgent need training to be done in their language.” for biblical and theological training in Africa. “Many people have a passion Moody Radio School of the Bible began to teach God’s Word, but they lack in 1926, the first correspondence Bible training,” says Stephen Asare, son study program offered by radio in the of Theovision founder and Moody United States. Today those programs graduate. “This is helpful as they dive are being repurposed for global use to more into God’s Word. It has a lot of equip Christian leaders who will impact meat to it.” n their communities for Christ.

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TIW_August_2017_4C_ic.indd 4 6/2/17 7:13 AM VOLUME 30 • ISSUE 8 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Bruce Everhart MANAGING EDITOR Heather Mo˜tt SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter Images of Light and Darkness CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jamie Janosz in Scripture John Koessler WRITER Light and its reflections help create timeless Brad Baurain masterworks of architecture. In the 20th century, ART DIRECTOR Lynn Gabalec American architect Louis I. Kahn transformed GRAPHIC DESIGNERS architecture and continues to inspire architects Larry Bohlin, Rachel Hutcheson today with his use of light to define the building, BUSINESS MANAGER Paul B. Currie elevating it from functional to extraordinary. MARKETING MANAGER Claire Kniowski This month in Today in the Word, as we study MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES images of light in the Bible, we’ll see that Christ is PRESIDENT J. Paul Nyquist the ultimate Light for the nations, transforming lives PROVOST and calling us to His truth. We’ll note that His Word Junias Venugopal gives light, guides, and protects. It elevates the EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Steven Mogck worth of a life. The Bible also warns us that sinners SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT rebel against the light and call it darkness, but we Greg R. Thornton can rejoice that Christ rescued us from the darkness CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Ken Heulitt of our sin and brought us into His glorious light. CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER God turns darkness into light! Samuel Choy VICE PRESIDENTS Tim Arens Thank you for staying with us on our journey Larry Davidhizar through the Bible with Today in the Word. Your Jim Elliott Bruce Everhart prayers and financial support make this ministry John A. Jelinek Collin G. Lambert possible. We pray this month’s topic will encourage Frank W. Leber Jr. you amid the troubles of this world, reminding Bryan O’Neal Paul Santhouse you that “the light shines in the darkness, and the James Spencer darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). We hope Janet Stiven Anthony Turner this study will help you walk in the light of Christ Debbie Zelinski and reflect it to others! n TRUSTEES Christopher Denison Orbelina Eguizabal T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Moody Global Ministries is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright Jerry B. Jenkins © 2017 by Moody Global Ministries. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Paul Johnson (Emeritus) in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., James Meeks Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, J. Paul Nyquist NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. David Schipper All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Julianna Slattery Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by Mark Wagner the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Richard E. Warren Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper. Richard Yook

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TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 5 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ JOB 38:1 21

TUESDAY AUGUST What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside? 1 Job 38:19

Where Were You? The Birth of Light “The Bible is enveloped by the imagery the Father, God the Son, God’s Word, of light, both literally and figuratively,” and even us as followers of Christ. the Dictionary of Biblical Imagery says. “At the beginning of the biblical In today’s reading, God Himself spoke narrative, physical light springs forth about creation. This was His first of as the first created thing (Gen. 1:3–4). two speeches in the dramatic finale of At the end of the story the light of God the book of Job. (For a book study of obliterates all traces of darkness: ‘And Job, see our June 2015 issue.) After a night shall be no more; they need no rather long and stressful conversation light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God among Job and his three friends, God will be their light’ (Rev. 22:5). Between Himself showed up to settle matters these two beacons the imagery of and end their debate. The purpose light makes nearly two hundred of all the rhetorical questions and appearances, with light emerging as sarcasm in this passage is to put these one of the Bible’s major and most squabbling humans in their place and to complex symbols.” underscore for them the immense gulf between human and divine wisdom, This month we’ll be studying this highly authority, goodness, and power. Did meaningful and complex symbol. In they know the way to light’s birthplace? general, we’ll examine the biblical Certainly not! passages to see the “story of light” from creation to the new Jerusalem. We’ve Job already knew this intellectually, but also organized our study to reflect how he needed the spiritual reminder that the image or metaphor of light is used the best and most fitting response to in Scripture to reveal more about God God is humility and worship.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Light and dark are powerful, universal symbols. As we embark on the Bible and We suggest that keeping a study journal will help prayer journey with Today in the you get more out of this month’s devotions. You’ll Word this month, let’s ask God for a humble and teachable heart, be able to track what you learn, identify favorite open to all the lessons from our verses, and see interconnected themes and theme on light and darkness. And meanings. Then you’ll be able to easily review let us praise Jesus Christ, the and share what you learn! Light for the nations.

6 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 6 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ GENESIS 1:15

WEDNESDAY And God said, “Let there be light,” AUGUST and there was light. Genesis 1:3 2

Day One and the Creation of Light Eric Metaxas argued in a Wall Street command: “Let there be light” (v. 3). Journal editorial that science “makes Only the Lord Himself could say and the case for God.” At least 200 factors do such a thing (see Isa. 45:18)! In fact, must occur for a planet to support life. the Hebrew verb translated as “create” If even one is missing, biological life is used only for divine (not human) is impossible. Despite the size of the activity in Scripture, which highlights His universe, the odds are against even sovereign power. one planet supporting life, much less intelligent life. These natural odds point The creation of light indicates not only to the more reasonable explanation of God’s power but also a newly created a supernatural Designer. potential for life and order, as seen in His separating light from darkness God began His improbable work with (v. 4) and naming the time periods “day” the creation of light. The only reason and “night” (v. 5). No wonder He called we know anything about it is because it “good”! God revealed it in Scripture. Genesis records that “the earth was formless Best of all, the same God who created and empty” (v. 2). “The Spirit of God was light also gave us the light of His hovering over the waters,” according to salvation: “For God, who said, ‘Let light one study Bible, like an eagle watching shine out of darkness,’ made his light over young ones learning to fly. shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed Into the “darkness [that] was over in the face of Christ” (2 Cor. 4:6). the surface of the deep” burst God’s

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US If you can, why not watch a sunrise this week? Greg Thornton, senior VP of As the sun’s rays wing across the sky and light Media, welcomes your prayers bursts into the darkness, you might also review for Moody Radio and Moody Publishers—our media ministries the biblical story of creation and that awe-inspiring that have been changing lives first command, “Let there be light.” The beauty of across the globe. Pray for God’s God’s creation should always spur us to worship, guidance for Greg in leading but too often we do not take the time to see. these crucial areas.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 7

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 7 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ GENESIS 1:1419

THURSDAY AUGUST God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth. 3 Genesis 1:17

Day Four and the Creation of Lights Sweet wormwood has been used in and morning marked the days of Chinese traditional medicine for more creation right from the start. In addition, than 2,000 years. Scientists at the the verb on Day 4 is not “create” University of Washington studied this as in verse 1 but “made,” meaning herb, learning how it worked in order to “fashioned” or “worked on” (v. 16). The engineer a better anti-cancer drug. Initial phrase “vault of the sky” (vv. 14, 15, 17) research suggests that the emerging conveys a sense of the grandeur and new chemotherapy better targets cancer vastness of both the earth’s sky and cells without harming normal cells. what we call outer space.

This is another example of creation’s Again, light is associated with order, wonderful design! The first three days especially the ordering of human life of creation in the Genesis narrative are into meaningful periods of time. The about forming or giving structure to the sun and moon were to “serve as signs earth, including water, land, and basic to mark sacred times, and days and vegetation. The last three days are years” (v. 14), described here as “the about filling or populating that structure greater light to govern the day and the with, for example, trees, animals, and lesser light to govern the night” (v. 16). people. So while the first day is the creation of light, its parallel, the fourth In this wonderful account of creation, day, is the creation of lights—the sun, we see God’s creative and sovereign moon, and stars. power (see Isa. 40:26). He spoke the universe into being, ordered its design, These astronomical bodies might have and governs all that happens here. been created on Day 1, since evening

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Psalm 136 is a wonderful psalm for family or small Moody Publishers is a powerful group worship. The leader can read alternate lines, tool for spreading the truth of with the group responding, “His love endures God’s Word around the world. Pray for its Acquisitions team— forever.” The opening verses focus on God’s work Drew Dyck, Duane Sherman, of creation, including the sun, moon, and stars (vv. and Ingrid Beck—that they find 7–9). Instead of taking light for granted, we should authors who write well and share see it as a prompt to worship! Moody’s kingdom values.

8 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 8 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ PSALM 139:718

FRIDAY Even the darkness will not be dark to you. AUGUST Psalm 139:12 4

Even the Darkness Is as Light to God When God revealed Nebuchadnezzar’s is nowhere anyone can go—high or dream and its meaning to Daniel, he low, east or west—where He is absent, responded with worship: “He reveals ignorant, or not in control (vv. 7–10). deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with But this is also a stern truth for God’s him. I thank and praise you, God of my enemies. His presence is inescapable. ancestors” (Dan. 2:22–23). The human tendency is to see Him in human terms, as if sometimes He’s “far Nothing is a mystery to God. Nothing away” and doesn’t know what’s going is hidden from Him, or can be, not on. But He sees all, knows all, and His even an unspoken dream in the mind judgment is perfect. “There is no deep of a king. All knowledge and power shadow, no utter darkness” that can dwell with Him—a truth Daniel dared to possibly conceal anything or anyone declare in the throne room of a hostile from Him (Job 34:21–23). empire. And he used the imagery of light and darkness to do it. This truth extends back into the past and forward into the future. God was David also used the imagery of light intimately involved in our creation and darkness to affirm these truths in (vv. 13–15), and “all the days ordained Psalm 139. A key thought in today’s for me were written in your book reading is that “darkness is as light before one of them came to be” (v. 16). to you” (vv. 11–12). God is omniscient He has had a plan for us from the and omnipresent. This is a reassuring start, and He knows us better than truth for those who love God. There we know ourselves.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God sees each person as someone made in His Continue to encourage in prayer image with an eternal destiny. Throughout history, Moody Publishers’ Acquisitions we have tended to deny full personhood to those team today: John Hinkley, Judith Dunagan, Kevin Emmert, who are disabled or unborn or from particular and Randall Payleitner. May ethnic backgrounds. Ask the Lord to shape God give them discernment your views of others as made in His image, and and grace as they reach out to advocate for their worth and value. authors and agents.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 9

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 9 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ 2 SAMUEL 22:2637

SATURDAY AUGUST You, LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light. 5 2 Samuel 22:29

God Turns Darkness into Light Writing in The Pursuit of God, A. W. of knowledge, wisdom, hope, and Tozer said: “On our part there must be blessing. Against all odds, the Lord surrender to the Spirit of God, for His can turn “darkness into light” or make work it is to show us the Father and the it possible for a single warrior to Son. If we co-operate with Him in loving “advance against a troop.” As David obedience God will manifest Himself wrote elsewhere, “The Lš›œ is my light to us, and that manifestation will be the and my salvation—whom shall I fear? difference between a nominal Christian The Lš›œ is the stronghold of my life— life and a life radiant with the light of of whom shall I be afraid?” (Ps. 27:1). His face.” The rest of this passage also focuses The “light of God’s face” is one way of on God’s character. He is faithful, speaking about His favor or blessing. blameless, pure, and perfect. He loves Today’s passage is a powerful reminder to save the humble and humble the that the Lord is on the side of His proud. When the wicked think they are people! This psalm of praise dates devious enough to outsmart Him, He from late in King David’s life and is also proves no one can. His Word is flawless. recorded in Psalm 18. Reflecting on his He is our shield, protector, and Rock. As life, the king rejoiced in God’s loving needed, He provides strength, stability, faithfulness to him. confidence, security, and success. He paves “a broad path for my feet” (v. 37), Specifically, David exulted that God the righteous, obedient path where we was his “lamp” (vv. 29–30), meaning find His guidance and protection. that God was his ongoing source

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2 and David’s here Samuel Choy, Chief Marketing form narrative “bookends” for the historical books Officer, appreciates your prayers of 1 and 2 Samuel. Read both passages and notice for his service at Moody as he leads several teams: Integrated the similar theological points and key themes. In Marketing Communications, what ways do these prayers help us understand Digital Marketing, Moody Radio and interpret all the history in between? How can Marketing, and Event and they shape your own prayers? Guest Services.

10 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 10 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ EXODUS 13:17
22

SUNDAY Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of AUGUST fire by night left its place in front of the people. Exodus 13:22 6

God’s Light Guides and Protects Scripture often represents the glory should go. They provided a reliable of God as a brilliant light. When King and comforting reminder that the God Solomon dedicated the temple in who had freed them from centuries Jerusalem, for example, the cloud of of slavery and the grip of a powerful God’s glory filled the place to such an king was still there and would not extent that the priests were unable to abandon them. Therefore, it symbolized serve (1 Kings 8). This cloud of dazzling not only God’s presence but also His light signified God’s special presence compassion (see Neh. 9:19). with His people, and by extension, His covenant love and faithfulness. At a practical level, God’s light allowed the people to travel by night as well This was not only a metaphorical light as by day. He graciously led them (as David meant yesterday) but at times the long way around, so that they a literal, physical light symbolizing wouldn’t immediately be forced to God’s presence. During the Exodus fight the Philistines (vv. 17–18). Not only from Egypt, He guided and protected were they unready militarily, they also the Israelites with a pillar of cloud possessed weak faith. by day and a pillar of fire by night (vv. 21–22). He spoke from these pillars (Ex. The presence of Joseph’s body should 33:9; Ps. 99:7). They were a verifiable, have been an encouragement in this physical reality that could also be seen regard (v. 19). The day had finally arrived by Israel’s enemies (Num. 14:14). when Joseph’s prophecy would be fulfilled (Gen. 50:24–25) and God would These pillars went in front of the take His people to their “promised land.” people, showing them the way they

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The story of the Exodus tells of many points at In the next three days, please which the Israelites wished to return to Egypt, join us as we pray for the Digital imagining that their lives had been better there. Marketing team that creates and maintains Moody’s online This seems foolish and irrational—yet too often we presence. Today, would you pray seem to wish the same. By our words and actions, for Danny Russell, Dave Quigley, it sometimes appears we would rather return to David Kyrouac, Dave McKay, and slavery to sin than follow Christ to true freedom. Elizabeth Doogan?

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 11

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 11 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ ISAIAH 45:113

MONDAY AUGUST I form the light and create darkness. 7 Isaiah 45:7

God the Sovereign Creator In Evangelism and the Sovereignty Acknowledged or not, He is worthy of of God, J. I. Packer explained the worship. He does what He does so that difference between “God’s will of all will know this truth (vv. 5–6). In this precept and His will of purpose, the passage, He chose to work through former being His published declaration Cyrus, king of Persia (vv. 1–4, 13), to of what man ought to do, the latter send the Jewish exiles home. Even the His (largely secret) decision as to what emperor of the reigning superpower He Himself will do. The distinction is had no choice but to do what God between God’s law and His plan. The wills. This pagan king would be made former tells man what he should be; into an “anointed” instrument of God’s the latter settles what he will be. Both righteousness to serve His people. aspects of the will of God are facts, though how they are related in the mind Worship should also include submission of God is inscrutable to us.” and obedience (vv. 9–12). As a child obeys a parent, or as a pot yields to God’s sovereignty is both a comforting the shaping hand of a potter, it is both and a mysterious doctrine. He is the fitting and required that we bow before all-powerful Creator, Lord over both Him. Too often, though, we question, light and darkness, bringer of both criticize, or talk back. Yet He created prosperity and disaster (vv. 7–8). He all and governs all. He does exactly as is the One who “wraps himself in light He wishes; His plans never fail. All the as with a garment” (Ps. 104:2). He is earth must and will one day see and the absolute King over every reality in acknowledge His glorious sovereignty! the universe!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The Creator knows the stars by name (Isa. 40:26). As we pray for Digital Marketing He feeds and clothes birds and flowers (Matt. at Moody in Chicago, please add 6:25–34). He even watches over sparrows (Matt. Drew Smith, Emily Alvarado, Jax Gorman, Karsten Smith, and Kiel 10:29–31). How much more does He care for us! Russell to your list. May they Choose one of these verses as your own reminder use their skills well to foster to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares connections with donors through for you” (1 Peter 5:7; Ps. 55:22; Phil 4:6–7). websites and emails.

12 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 12 6/1/17 7:51 AM READ 2 SAMUEL 23:15

TUESDAY He is like the light of morning AUGUST at sunrise on a cloudless morning. 2 Samuel 23:4 8

A King Like the Dawn According to one source, the deaf 2–4). A leader should be defined by composer Ludwig van Beethoven said righteousness, integrity, and fear of the on his deathbed, “I will hear in heaven.” Lord. A leader knows above all that the Blues singer Bessie Smith said, “I’m results of his endeavors are in God’s going, but I’m going in the name of the hands alone. Lord.” Chemist Michael Faraday said, “I shall be with Christ, and that is enough.” Light imagery is used here to create Harriet Tubman’s last words were a vivid word-picture of such a king “Swing low, sweet chariot.” (v. 4). He is “like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning” or Today’s reading contains the last words “like the brightness after rain that brings of King David—the final message he grass from the earth.” Both of these wanted to leave with his son Solomon similes indicate a qualitative difference and his nation, Israel. These words were from the usual self-centered, corrupt a follow-up to his final psalm of praise human king. A godly king would instead (see August 5). Rather than boasting of rely on the Lord and look out for the his own accomplishments, David gave interests of his people. The contrast the glory to God. To whatever extent would be like sunrise after a dark night he had been inspired and exalted, it or like fresh air after a cleansing rain. was because of God (v. 1). God had chosen him and gifted him to be the What David wanted to be remembered leader of Israel. for most was the covenant God made with his house (v. 5; 2 Sam. 7:16). This God Himself set the standards for was the ultimate proof of being blessed what a good king should be (vv. by God!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US What do you want your legacy to be? What do In conclusion of our prayers for you want to be remembered for, or what would Digital Marketing, please uphold you want people to say about you at your funeral? Lane Anderson, Noelle Bud, Mikhail Filatov, Nia Hendricks, Spend time today pondering and praying seriously Peter Distler, and Rachel Strull. We over these questions. A godly legacy begins with a are grateful for this team’s service focus on who God is and a willingness to give Him in social media, developing the glory for all your accomplishments. websites, online banners, and ads.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 13

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 13 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ EZEKIEL 1:1928

WEDNESDAY AUGUST Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the radiance around him. 9 Ezekiel 1:28

Light, Glory, and the Throne of God A classic hymn declares: “Immortal, omniscience, their wheels-within- invisible, God only wise, / In light wheels divine omnipresence. Ezekiel inaccessible hid from our eyes, / Most saw above these angels a crystal “vault” blessed, most glorious, the Ancient (the same word used in Genesis 1), of Days, / Almighty, victorious, Thy marking a gap between created beings great name we praise. . . . Great Father and Creator (vv. 22–24). The phrase of glory, pure Father of light, / Thine “sparkling like crystal” indicates that this angels adore Thee, all veiling their space was bright and beautiful. sight; / All praise we would render; O help us to see / ’Tis only the splendor Ezekiel heard a voice coming from of light hideth Thee!” above this “vault,” then saw a figure “like a man” seated on a jeweled Ezekiel’s description of God’s glory in throne (vv. 25–26). The One on the today’s reading is full of light. This vision throne is described in terms of light and reassured the shaken and depressed fire—glowing like metal from a blazing Jewish exiles that God had not furnace and surrounded by radiant light abandoned them. Though they were far (v. 27). The overall effect was “like the from the temple, He was still present appearance of a rainbow in the clouds with them. Israel and Jerusalem had on a rainy day.” To see God directly was been conquered—but not God, who impossible. As impressive as this vision remained in sovereign control. was, it was only “the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord” (v. 28). In the vision, God’s throne was The reality is beyond description! No attended by “living creatures” or angels wonder Ezekiel fell down in worship. (vv. 19–21). Their eyes represent divine

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God is all-glorious, loving, faithful, righteous, We invite you to pray today for and just. People take refuge in Him, enjoy His one more Marketing team on our abundant blessings, and delight in Him. Make a list Chicago campus: Moody Radio’s George Economos, Hannah of God’s attributes and how you have experienced LaMaster, and Michael Chapin. them in your own life, recording those times Thank the Lord for their integrity, you’ve tasted His goodness or felt His faithfulness. creativity, professionalism, and commitment to godly standards.

14 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 14 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ REVELATION 1:918

THURSDAY His face was like the sun AUGUST shining in all its brilliance. Revelation 1:16 10

The Brilliance of Christ Charles Wesley wrote “Morning Hymn”: of Ephesus. John was in exile there, but “Christ, whose glory fills the skies, / as with the Jewish exiles in Ezekiel’s Christ, the true, the only light, / Sun of day, God remained very present. One Righteousness, arise, / Triumph o’er Sunday, the Holy Spirit gave John a the shades of night: / Day-spring from vision of the risen and exalted Christ. on high, be near: / Day-star, in my heart appear. . . . Visit then this soul of mine, / Light is a key metaphor and visual Pierce the gloom of sin, and grief, / Fill feature in the description (vv. 12–16). me, Radiancy Divine, / Scatter all my There are seven lampstands and seven unbelief, / More and more thyself display, stars, representing seven churches and / Shining to the perfect day.” their angels. Christ’s hair is white like snow, indicating wisdom and dignity. The light and glory of God the Father His eyes are like blazing fire, meaning is displayed as well by God the Son! He sees all. His feet are like glowing Today’s reading from Revelation bronze, representing strength. His contains echoes from the prophet “face was like the sun shining in all its Ezekiel’s vision that we saw yesterday. brilliance” (v. 16), signifying not only We have explored light in the Bible glory and power but also love and favor as it relates to the Father; next, we’ll (see Num. 6:24–26). consider passages about light relating to the Son. In the vision’s climax, Christ announced His identity as the Living One, the Alpha The island of Patmos was a Roman and the Omega, and the conqueror of penal colony, about 50 miles southwest death and hell (vv. 17–18).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Did you know that Christ has over 300 names or Join us in prayer for vice president titles in Scripture? Two good books on this topic of Moody Radio, Collin Lambert, are Names of Christ, by T. C. Horton and Charles remembering his leadership before God today. As you pray, E. Hurlburt, and Names of Jesus, by A. B. Simpson also thank the Lord for all the (from a classic nineteenth-century sermon series). lives that have been touched Both are available from Moody Publishers and can by Moody’s radio ministry on air be found online or at your Christian bookstore. and online.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 15

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 15 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ LUKE 1:6779

FRIDAY AUGUST The tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven. 11 Luke 1:78

Christ Is the Dawning Light of History Christian musicians have been singing death, to guide our feet into the path of of the light of God throughout the peace” (vv. 78–79). church’s history. Last year, Josh Garrels released a Christmas album titled This is all about God’s plan of The Light Came Down. The title track redemption (v. 68). The “rising sun” is celebrates: “The light came down / Cast the “horn of salvation” from the line of the darkness away / He appeared / A David (v. 69), the Messiah, Jesus Christ, helpless child / The light of God came for whom John the Baptist will prepare down / There is a light / A new day the way (v. 76). Sent by God the Father, dawning / Old things pass / All things God the Son will come in order to “give made new.” his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins” The Incarnation of Christ is the dawning (v. 77). Only then can we have peace light of history! Without Him, humanity with God. has no hope. Zechariah spoke as part of a great This is what Zechariah realized and tradition. Isaiah and Malachi were prophesied in his song of praise among those who had looked forward following the birth of his son, John the to this day: “The people walking in Baptist. The climactic verses of this darkness have seen a great light; prophecy are given in terms of light and on those living in the land of deep darkness: “Because of the tender mercy darkness a light has dawned” (Isa. 9:2). of our God . . . the rising sun will come “The sun of righteousness will rise with to us from heaven to shine on those healing in its rays” (Mal. 4:2). living in darkness and in the shadow of

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Without the light of Christ, we would remain Doug Hastings, Lucrecia eternally lost in spiritual darkness. Because of our Lopez, and Tinakka Johnson sins we stand condemned, but by trusting in His help Collin Lambert oversee general administrative tasks name we can receive God’s gift of life and salvation. and processes at Moody Radio Have you believed on the name of Jesus and in Chicago. Pray the Lord would stepped into the light? If not, take this important encourage them in their day-to- step today! day responsibilities.

16 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 16 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ JOHN 8:1220

SATURDAY Whoever follows me will never walk AUGUST in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 12

Christ Is the Light of the World In the Transfiguration, Jesus revealed the one true Light. The metaphor His glory to three of His closest of light thus means life, salvation, followers. “His face shone like the sun, hope, and faithful love. By contrast, and his clothes became as white as the metaphor of darkness indicates the light.” Moses and Elijah appeared death, condemnation, despair, and and spoke with Him. The voice of God self-centered pride. This realm includes declared from a bright cloud, “This is sin, the world, and Satan; while God’s my Son, whom I love; with him I am well domain includes holiness, His kingdom, pleased. Listen to him!” (Matt. 17:1–9). and Himself. Jesus also said, “I have come into the world as a light, so that Peter, James, and John had the no one who believes in me should stay privilege of seeing the unveiled glory in darkness” (John 12:46). of Christ. He is indeed the “light of the world,” as He taught in today’s reading. When the Pharisees challenged His As a result, “Whoever follows me will claim, Jesus called His Father as His never walk in darkness, but will have second witness (vv. 13–18). These so- the light of life” (v. 12). Just like the called religious leaders illustrated the Israelites who followed the pillar of ignorance and blindness of those who cloud and fire, believers who follow the walk in spiritual darkness (vv. 19–20). Light are heading in the right direction! A clear choice was placed before the audience: Choose light and life in This is one of the most famous “I am” Christ, or choose to reject God and statements in the Gospel of John. By willfully remain in a state of darkness using this formulation, Jesus identified and death. Himself as God, the great “— ˜™” and

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you sometimes wonder if your life is headed Jennifer Epperson conducts in the right direction? Does the world around you research, surveys, and data feel dark or confusing? Jesus doesn’t promise us management at Moody Radio. Effie Rolfe oversees the online an easy path, but He does promise us light, life, streaming of the Urban Praise freedom, and purpose when we follow Him. Put internet station. Thank God today your focus on Him, and His Word will direct your for their expertise and ask for His steps and His Spirit will give you strength to follow. blessings as they serve Him.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 17

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 17 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ ISAIAH 42:19

SUNDAY AUGUST I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles. 13 Isaiah 42:6

Christ Is the Light for the Nations Creation and salvation are closely Gentiles,” showing that God’s plan of connected in Scripture, which is salvation was for the whole world (v. 6; reflected in these lines from a fifth- 49:6; 51:4). Simeon later rejoiced over century hymn: “Creator of the stars of the baby Jesus as “a light for revelation night, / Thy people’s everlasting Light: to the Gentiles, and the glory of your / O Christ, Redeemer, save us all / And people Israel” (Luke 2:32). Paul and hear Thy servants when they call.” Barnabas also quoted Isaiah 49:6, which uses the same phrase, to justify From the very beginning, the Creator preaching the gospel to the Gentiles had a plan of redemption. His own Son, (Acts 13:47–48). the second Person of the Trinity, would become a human being, the perfect The metaphor of light includes knowl- sacrifice, to fulfill the promises made edge as opposed to ignorance and to Adam, Abraham, and David. This is freedom as opposed to captivity (v. 7). seen in many Bible passages, including The Savior came as an agent of God’s today’s reading, which is the first mercy and brought spiritual life, truth, “Servant Song” in Isaiah. and liberation from our state of spiritual death and bondage to sin. Images of light and darkness surround the Servant, whom we now know to The Servant is also described in this be Jesus (see Matt. 12:15–21). God, the passage as One upheld by God and Creator of light, chose and called Him in whom God delights. He will bring as the only One who could accomplish justice and peace. He is a gentle healer, His mission of redemption (v. 5). His a righteous source of hope, and a purpose was to be “a light for the fulfillment of the covenant.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The chorus “Song for the Nations,” sometimes Would you include in your prayer known as “May We Be a Shining Light to the our Human Resources department Nations,” by Chris Christensen, develops these headed by vice president Debbie Zelinski? We ask God to continue themes. Song lyrics and music can easily be to guide them as they hire new located on YouTube or other websites. Sing or employees, oversee employee listen to this song as part of your personal worship training and events, and manage time today. employee benefits.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 18 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ JOHN 1:19

MONDAY In him was life, and that life AUGUST was the light of all mankind. John 1:4 14

Christ the Eternal Word, Life, and Light Book 3 of John Milton’s Christian epic John the Baptist was sent by God poem, Paradise Lost, opens with his as a herald to the light, that is, as a famous “invocation to light.” Speaking forerunner and witness, announcing of Christ, the poet wrote: “Hail holy the coming of the light (vv. 6–8). He light, offspring of Heav’n first-born testified to the light and pointed others . . . God is light, And never but in to belief in the light. unapproached light Dwelt from Eternity, dwelt then in thee, Bright effluence of After 400 years without prophets, John bright essence increate [uncreated].” had to say specifically that he was not the light. Humbly and remarkably, he Inspired by the Holy Spirit, John the consistently proclaimed this fact rather Apostle also wrote poetic, beautiful, than yielding to the temptation to seek and true words to introduce his Gospel. followers and a more prominent role for He was stirred to proclaim the truth of himself (John 1:19–34). Christ with the imagery of light. “In him was life, and that life was the light of all Just as “In the beginning God created mankind” (v. 4). the heavens and the earth” (Gen. 1:1), so also “In the beginning was the Word, Light is used here as a metaphor for life and the Word was with God, and the and salvation. Without Christ, we would Word was God” (v. 1). Only Jesus, the have no hope of either. Although victory eternally existent and incarnate Son of is certain, the battle between light and God, is “the true light that gives light to darkness rages on. “The light shines in everyone” (v. 9). the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (v. 5).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US John the Baptist was willing to sacrifice his own As the new student orientation fame and glory to point people to Jesus: “He starts today on Moody’s Spokane, must become greater; I must become less” (John Wash., campus, please uphold in prayer the staff of Moody 3:26–30). Are we willing to sacrifice anything that Aviation’s Airframe and Power would block the light of Jesus—our own ambition, Plant: Brian Writebol, Gregory agenda, or status? May we be so filled with His Heller, Jodi Appleby, Mark light that people see Christ in our lives. McIntire, and Steven Thimsen.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 19

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 19 5/19/17 3:36 PM QUESTION AND ANSWER by Dr. Winfred O. Neely, Professor of Preaching and Pastoral Studies

Ephesians 4:7 says, “But to do vary according to what the Lord has each one of us grace has been called each one of us to do. In His infinite Q given as Christ apportioned it.” wisdom, the Lord has determined the What does this mean? amount, scope, and extent of the grace gift that you have—but God gives each of In the context of the letter to us enough empowering grace to serve the Ephesians, the grace that Him in the way He has called us. A Christ gives is the God-given ability and enablement to serve Christ in I was taught not to pray for the a specific manner in order to contribute leaders of the church, only to to the overall growth of the body of Q ask them to pray for me. Since Christ. The ability to serve the Lord and the apostle Paul was a devout Christian His people in a specific ministry capacity and deeply committed to Christ, why is itself evidence of the grace of God did he ask for prayer in Ephesians 6:19? operating in our lives. The words to “each one of us” remind us that every follower Your question merits much of Christ has a grace gift, a gift that is to reflection on our part. The be developed and deployed for the glory A apostle Paul was one of the of God and edification of the church (see godliest men who ever lived. He was also 1 Peter 4:10–11). a powerful missionary, church planter, preacher, Bible teacher, and mentor (see Does the phrase in Ephesians Rom. 15:14–21; 1 Cor. 3:10–15; Eph. 3:8; 4:7—“as Christ apportioned 1 Tim. 2:5–7; 2 Tim. 3:10–11). Under the Q it”—imply that the Lord gives guidance and power of the Holy Spirit, he some Christians more grace and some penned the book of Romans, the great Christian less grace? doctrinal letter of the New Testament. He wrote 1 and 2 Corinthians. He penned The reference to grace in that Galatians, a book that some scholars verse is not the saving grace call the Magna Carta of Christianity. Paul A granted to us at conversion wrote Ephesians, a book filled with the (see Eph. 2:8–10). Every repentant sinner mighty mountain ranges of doctrinal truth receives the saving grace of God at and practical implications. Paul wrote conversion, and each redeemed person Philippians, the precious thank-you letter receives the same saving grace (Acts of friendship, with every line throbbing 11:17; 15:6–11). The grace referred to in this with joy. He wrote Colossians, 1 and 2 verse is empowering grace for service. Thessalonians, Philemon, 1 and 2 Timothy, The levels of this empowering grace and Titus. Furthermore, half of the book

20 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 20 5/19/17 3:36 PM God gives each of us enough empowering grace to serve Him in the way He has called us.

of Acts is devoted to the missionary power. The identification of a miracle as a journeys of Paul. wonder underscores the awe the miracle generates in the observers. The word Yet this Paul, the great Apostle, asks for sign highlights the miracle’s meaning as prayer for liberty to preach the gospel a pointer to draw our attention to some in the context of his imprisonment. aspect of the Lord’s person. He could not exercise his ministry in his own strength. He stood in need of What is the meaning of the God’s grace, strength, and power. He Lord’s miraculous signs in the understood that one of the principal Q Gospel of John? ways God’s grace and power could be unleashed in his life and ministry was From the many sign miracles through the prayers of God’s people Jesus performed, John selected on his behalf. Paul requested prayer A and recorded seven of them in numerous times in his letters (see Rom. his Gospel. His selection was rooted in 15:30–32; 1 Thess. 5:25; 2 Thess. 3:1). If evangelistic purposes, which he identifies Paul realized that he needed prayer, we in John 20:31, and each of the seven can rest assured that all of us—whether signs had a particular significance. Jesus we are church leaders or the people changed the water into wine, pointing in the pews—stand in the need of the to His power over quality (John 2:1–11). prayers of God’s people. We, therefore, The Lord’s healing of the nobleman’s should not hesitate to ask other Christians son points to His power over distance to pray for us. (John 4:46–54). When the Lord healed the man at the pool of Bethesda, He In the Gospel according demonstrated His power over time (John to John, John refers to the 5:1–9). His feeding of the five thousand Q miracles of Jesus as signs demonstrated His power over quantity (John 2:11; 4:54; 20:30–31). Would you (John 6:1–13). The Lord’s calming of the please explain why he identifies the sea points to His power over nature (John Lord’s miracles as signs? 6:15–21). Jesus healed the man born blind, pointing to His power over tragedy Three terms are used for our and misfortune (John 9). And when He Lord’s miracles in the New raised Lazarus from among the dead, He A Testament: miracles, signs, revealed His power over death (John 11). and wonders (see Acts 2:22). The word What a mighty Savior we know and serve! miracle signifies that the miraculous deed or event is an expression of divine

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 21

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 21 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ PSALM 19:714

TUESDAY AUGUST The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. 15 Psalm 19:8

God’s Word Gives Light A 1991 survey conducted for the Library (v. 8). Bright eyes indicate alertness and of Congress and Book-of-the-Month energy. When the eyes have “light,” Club found that Americans named it means they have good health, life, the Bible as the most influential book and hope. This verse reminds us that in their lives. Yet even back then, this the Lord’s commands are our source news wasn’t as good as it sounds. After of spiritual health, alertness, energy, all, number two on the list was Ayn life, and hope. They should be obeyed, Rand’s Atlas Shrugged. In addition, for they show us the best way to live. respondents said they spent more time That is, “This command is a lamp, this watching television (12 hours per week) teaching is a light, and correction and than reading books (9 hours). instruction are the way to life” (Prov. 6:23). In short, “Your word is a lamp for The Bible, as the revealed and inspired my feet, a light on my path” (Ps. 119:105). Word of God, reflects His light, that is, His truth, wisdom, and holy commands. God’s Word is also perfect, eternal, The first six verses of Psalm 19 address righteous, and trustworthy. It gives creation, the “book of nature,” and how wisdom, joy, warning, and discernment. it declares God’s glory. Today’s reading, It is pure, precious, rewarding to the second half of this psalm, addresses obey, and sweetly refreshing to the the Bible, the “book of God.” soul. It helps convict us of sin and communicates God’s promise of One of Scripture’s key characteristics forgiveness. Thankfully, the light of is that the “commands of the L’“” Scripture helps keep us on the straight are radiant, giving light to the eyes” and narrow path!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Here’s a simple object lesson about light. Turn off Ken Heulitt, chief financial all the lights and go to the darkest room in the officer, requests your prayers house. Try to do simple tasks such as reading a for his teams managing Moody’s finances, as we strive to always book or writing your name—in the dark. Then light follow the principles of godly a candle or turn on a flashlight and try again. What stewardship. He also would like to an enormous difference even the smallest source thank all Moody’s friends for your of light can make! faithful support and prayers.

22 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 22 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ JOHN 3:1621

WEDNESDAY Whoever lives by the truth comes into the light. AUGUST John 3:21 16

The Gospel Is Light and Truth Archaeologists recently found instead of the death they deserve. God evidence for a missing chapter in would have every right to condemn church history. They unearthed seven sinners, but instead He sent Christ Christian gravestones, one dating to to save us. Only those who refuse to .­. 1162, near Ilyn Balik, Kazakhstan, believe stand condemned. an ancient city on the Silk Road trade route. This proves that the gospel God sent light, His Son, into our reached central Asia centuries darkness. One would think that would earlier than had been previously be cause for rejoicing, but in fact verified. One of the archaeologists different people respond differently. said, “This is fundamental to local Many are afraid and hate the light, believers. Kazakhstan had its history preferring to continue in sin and proudly suppressed in the Soviet period. hoping to hide their evil deeds. Others After independence, they began to step forward in faith into the light’s rediscover who they were.” love and truth, living by it “in the sight of God,” that is, with His help or in His The gospel is light and truth to all who strength (vv. 19–21). believe. Following Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being “born To believe simply means to see and again” (3:1–15), John explained and choose light. To reject God’s salvation summarized the gospel message (vv. is like closing one’s eyes and trying 16–18). God loved the world so much to shut out the light. The light is not that He sent His only Son to pay the just affected by this self-chosen blindness, penalty for our sins. Those who respond but darkness will be that person’s to this gift in faith receive eternal life eternal destiny.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ New student orientation begins made his light shine in our hearts to give us the today on our Chicago campus, light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in a busy time for Residence Life’s Bruce Norquist, David Chizum, the face of Christ” (2 Cor. 4:6). The Dictionary of and Hannah Cosper. Please focus Biblical Imagery says, “Here is the link between your prayers on their interaction creation and the new creation . . . between the with students, as they help physical reality and the spiritual symbol.” students settle into campus life.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 23

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 23 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ EXODUS 25:3140

THURSDAY AUGUST The LORD is God, and he has made his light shine on us. 17 Psalm 118:27

The Responsibility of Worship In their song, “Father of Lights,” the in the tabernacle. Keeping the lights popular Christian band Third Day sings: continually lit, using clear olive oil, was “Father of love, Father of lights / Let an important duty for the priests. God your love fall, let it shine bright / You Himself gave the pattern—a center alone deserve the honor and the glory stem with three branches on either side, / You alone deserve all our praise / So for a total of seven lights, a number we worship you and you alone / Great possibly symbolizing completeness and marvelous are your deeds / O Lord, (Num. 8:1–4). The lampstand’s design God Almighty / Just and true are your was to resemble an almond tree, with ways / So we praise you and you alone “flowerlike cups, buds and blossoms,” / Father of truth, Father of grace.” perhaps because this tree was the first to bloom in spring in the Near East and Having explored the imagery of light thus symbolized life (v. 31). Standing as it relates to God the Father, God four-and-a-half feet high, it was to be the Son, and God’s Word, including made of pure gold and would have the gospel, we turn next to how light weighed about 100 pounds. and darkness are used in Scripture to describe or instruct human beings. In To keep the lights always burning today’s passage, we consider physical represented both the continuous light in relation to the responsibility worship of God’s people and His to worship. continuous presence with them. It was also a reminder that Israel was to be a Light was an integral part of Israelite “light to the nations.” worship, as we see in the lampstand

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The basic design of the tabernacle lampstand Again, lift up in prayer our can be seen today in the Hanukkah menorah. Residence Life team, Jeffrey Hanukkah is also known as the “Festival of Lights,” Anderson, Neal Anderson, Sarah Youssef, and Stacey Brogan. and one candle is lit each night during this Jewish Pray that the Lord gives them the holiday. Even if we don’t celebrate this holiday, resources and strength they need we can be reminded of God’s light to His people to serve students well. through the menorah or lampstand.

24 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 24 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ JOB 24:1324

FRIDAY There are those who rebel against the light, AUGUST who do not know its ways. Job 24:13 18

Sinners Rebel against the Light Mack Yearwood was wanted on battery vulnerable (v. 21). Irrationally, they are charges and several other open “friends with the terrors of darkness” warrants, but Florida law enforcement (v. 17). officers had no idea of his whereabouts. Then he uploaded his wanted poster Job called for justice to be served to to Facebook, alerting deputies who such sinners (vv. 18–20). Their deeds arrested him a day later. Apparently he will not last. They will vanish without a didn’t realize that the police can see trace, like sea foam or melting snow. He social media along with everyone else! knew that God sees all and that hiding things from Him is impossible. Darkness Those who do evil put their confidence offers no concealment. Evildoers may in darkness to hide them as they rebel feel safe or “established,” but God’s against the light (v. 13; John 3:19). This “eyes are on their ways” and He will is how Job poetically describes them in make sure that “they are cut off like today’s passage. From his perspective, heads of grain” (vv. 21–24). this is a reality of both knowledge and action. Evildoers do not know the ways The Lord accomplishes justice on His of light, nor do they “stay in its paths.” timetable, not ours, so at times it might Murderers think darkness will hide appear that the wicked are prospering. their deeds (v. 14). Adulterers similarly That’s why Job began his speech think nighttime will conceal their sexual with this question or complaint: “Why immorality (v. 15). Thieves also prefer does the Almighty not set times for darkness in which to pursue their judgment? Why must those who know criminal activities (v. 16). Such people him look in vain for such days?” (v. 1). prey shamefully on the poor, needy, and

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Does it seem to you that God’s justice is overdue? Today we invite you uphold in That the wicked are doing just fine and getting prayer Dr. Junias Venugopal, away with it (Jer. 12:1)? If so, cling to Psalm provost and dean of Education, as he and his staff are getting ready 27:13–14: “I remain confident of this: I will see the for the new school year. Pray that goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait through their service, the Lord for the L‘’“; be strong and take heart and wait for would bless Moody’s ministry of the L‘’“.” training Christian leaders.

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TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 25 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ ISAIAH 5:2030

SATURDAY AUGUST Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness. 19 Isaiah 5:20

Sinners Call Light Darkness Evangelist Billy Graham once preached: because it’s so clearly wrong! Evil is “Humanity has always been dexterous fundamentally irrational in this sense. To at confusing evil with good. That was act as if things are that are not, or as if Adam and Eve’s problem, and it is our things are not that are, is absurd and to problem today. If evil were not made to some extent carries its own judgment. appear good, there would be no such It’s as if someone denied that gravity thing as temptation. It is in their close exists and then stepped off a cliff—their similarity that the danger lies. . . . [But] self-deception would have immediate God has not changed. His standards consequences! Similarly, those who call have not been lowered.” light dark and dark light will inevitably suffer the consequences. To call evil good is moral and spiritual confusion, not in the sense of being Such people are “wise in their own ignorant or bewildered but in the sense eyes” and thus guilty of pride (v. 21). of suppressing the truth (see Rom. Pride thinks it knows better than God, 1:18–20). Today’s passage gives the and it’s always dead wrong. The certain final three of six woes pronounced on outcome for those who spurn the Lord Israel for breaking their covenant with and rebel against His Word is death, God. They stood condemned for calling seen in images of burning, decaying, evil good and suppressing the truth. and blowing away (v. 24). For the nation of Israel, the consequence will be God’s Those who refuse and deny the truth judgment of conquest by a foreign are like people who call light dark and nation, a day of “darkness and distress” dark light (v. 20). It seems ridiculous (v. 30).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Israel’s sins included corruption and injustice. Moody’s Undergraduate School Jesus condemned the Pharisees of His day for faculty are preparing for the practicing legalism but neglecting “justice and fall semester. Please pray for the Educational Ministries the love of God” (Luke 11:42). What might Isaiah professors—Timothy Downey, and Jesus say about America and our churches? Peter Worrall, Nancy Kane, and In what ways do we and should we help seek His Mike Milco. May they always justice for the voiceless and the vulnerable? honor God in their teaching!

26 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 26 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ COLOSSIANS 1:914

He has rescued us from the dominion SUNDAY of darkness and brought us into the kingdom AUGUST of the Son he loves. Colossians 1:13 20

We Have Been Rescued from Darkness into Light As Jesus was being crucified and the Light and darkness are opposing sins of the world were being laid on kingdoms. The kingdom of light Him, physical darkness fell over the belongs to the Son and is a place land at noon and lasted for three hours of salvation, mercy, and life. The (see Luke 23:44–49). His last words kingdom of darkness, on the other were, “Father, into your hands I commit hand, is the realm of sin and is a place my spirit,” a quotation of Psalm 31:5. The of condemnation, pride, and death. supervising centurion was amazed and Citizens of the kingdom of light have responded by praising God and saying, a sure inheritance of eternal life with “Surely this was a righteous man.” God (v. 12; see 1 Peter 1:3–5). Citizens of the kingdom of darkness, by contrast, To rescue us sinners from the death also have a sure inheritance, but theirs penalty we deserved, Christ descended is eternal death and separation from into darkness, death, and hell. The God. Light is associated with holiness, “story of light” is therefore in essence hope, truth, and life, while darkness is the gospel story. We’re all sinners, associated with evil, despair, lies, and prideful rebels against the light. But death. What an amazing rescue! thanks be to God, He “rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought Paul taught this in the context of us into the kingdom of the Son he an extended prayer request for the loves, in whom we have redemption, Colossians. People of light should live the forgiveness of sins” (vv. 13–14). worthy of their calling and strive to By His mercy, He has called us “out please their Rescuer (v. 10)! of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The term inheritance in the Old Testament was Today we continue to pray for often linked with God’s covenant with Israel, but the faculty of the Educational Paul and others use it in the New Testament to Ministries department in Chicago, asking for God’s refreshing refer to the church and God’s plan of salvation. presence in the lives of Dennis With an online Bible study tool, you can search for Fledderjohann, Gina Behrens, words such as inheritance or heirs of God to learn Mary Martin, and Robert MacRae. more about God’s gracious promise to you.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 27

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 27 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ 1 JOHN 1:510

MONDAY AUGUST God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 21 1 John 1:5

Light, Dark, Sin, and Forgiveness An eighth-century Christian named evidence of our faith. If we claim to Alcuin of York prayed: “Almighty have a relationship with God but do not and merciful God, the fountain of all choose holiness and truth, we prove goodness, who knows the thoughts of ourselves liars. Being God’s children our hearts, we confess that we have means we need and want to be where sinned against you, and done what you He is and where fellow believers are. see as evil. Wash us, we implore you, If we claim to have a relationship with from the stains of our past sins, and God, it will also be seen in our unity and give us grace and power to put away all fellowship with one another. hurtful things so that, being delivered from the bondage of sin, we may Third, the truth of grace: Confession produce the good fruits of repentance.” is an essential spiritual discipline (vv. 8–10). On our earthly pilgrimages, we’re Today’s passage frames repentance unable to walk in the light perfectly. We in terms of three key truths. First, a still sin, and if we think otherwise we foundational truth: “God is light; in him are self-deceived. there is no darkness at all” (v. 5; see 1 Tim. 6:16). What does this mean? He Thankfully, when we confess, He is holy; in Him there is no evil at all. He forgives, always! He is faithful and is truth; in Him there is no falsehood at never gives up on us. He is just—Christ all. He is perfect; in Him there is no flaw already paid the price. When we stray, of any kind. He restores us and brings us back into the light (v. 9). Second, an applied truth: We must walk in the light (vv. 6–7). Our lives are the

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are you regularly in the habit of confessing Moody’s fall semester classes your sins? If yes, give thanks for God’s gift of begin today! Let’s take this forgiveness in Christ. If not, begin this spiritual opportunity to praise God for our new and returning students habit. God already knows everything about us. and ask for His blessing on their Confessing and accepting His certain forgiveness studies and future ministry. Pray is about removing all barriers to intimate for the power of the Holy Spirit to fellowship with Him and with fellow believers. cover their time at Moody.

28 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 28 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ 1 JOHN 2:311

TUESDAY Anyone who loves their brother AUGUST and sister lives in the light. 1 John 2:10 22

Light Means Love for Fellow Followers of Christ In her book What’s in a Phrase? Love is completed by obedience. Or to Pausing Where Scripture Gives You put it another way, God’s love moves Pause, Marilyn Chandler McEntyre us toward obedience. If this is not the pointed out: “The word ‘kindness,’ case, then we neither truly know nor related to ‘kin,’ descends directly from love Him. This is not a new idea, since the Old English gecynde, meaning ‘with loving God and one’s neighbor was the feeling of relatives for each other.’ already the greatest commandment. Kindness extends our impulse to share Yet at the same time it is a new idea, with and care for others beyond the because Christ’s redemptive sacrifice claims of the family we recognize as has made possible a depth of love and kin to those who have only the claim unity that was not possible before. He on us of their fellow humanity and their is the hinge of history. “The darkness need. Kindness takes seriously that the is passing and the true light is already children of God are in very fact brothers shining” (vv. 7–8). and sisters.” Love for God also means love for fellow Walking in the light means showing believers (vv. 9–11). If we do not love love for our fellow Christ-followers. our brothers and sisters in Christ, then Knowledge and obedience must go we neither truly know nor love God hand in hand (vv. 3–6). To know God either. In part, this means we can help means to keep His commands means one another toward more holiness (not to embrace and live by His truth means stumbling) and seeing clearly, which is to love Him means to imitate Christ. spiritual wisdom. The reverse is also true. These sets of meanings are inseparable.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Though it has been overused, the phrase “what Please pray today for Moody’s would Jesus do?” remains a very useful way of president, Dr. Paul Nyquist, who thinking about the Christian life. To walk in the leads the Convocation service in Chicago today. As he greets light means to imitate Jesus (v. 6). What would He students and their families do in our situation? If you’re not sure, this is the gathering on campus, we ask for kind of wisdom God delights to give (James 1:5). a fruitful and spiritually enriching year for him.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 29

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 29 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ MATTHEW 5:1316

WEDNESDAY AUGUST Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 23 Matthew 5:16

We Are the Light of the World The well-known musical Fame focused don’t generate our own light; rather, on the characters’ desire to achieve we reflect God’s light before the world. success and recognition. As one sang: This is a tremendous privilege and “Remember my name, fame / I’m gonna responsibility. “Light” indicates good live forever / I’m gonna learn how to fly, deeds that bring God glory, as opposed high / I feel it coming together / People to good deeds done before people to will see me and cry, fame / I’m gonna receive their praise (v. 16; Matt. 6:1). make it to heaven / Light up the sky like To live in any other way makes no a flame, fame.” Another hoped: “In time, sense—it would be like hiding a lamp we will all be stars.” under a basket.

The biblical idea of being “lights” or The other metaphor is salt (v. 13). Salt “stars” is very different! Given all we’ve is a seasoning that adds flavor and learned about light in Scripture, it’s is an important preservative. Its most rather amazing that in today’s passage powerful effects are to make food Jesus called us “the light of the world” palatable and to make people thirsty. (v. 14). He Himself is “the light of the world” (John 9:5), of course, but He has Christians do all of these things. We passed on this identity and purpose to can stay flavorful through committed His body, the church. We’re to carry on discipleship. We should act as a moral His work in His name! preservative by living holy lives. And we must cause other people to thirst for Light was one of two metaphors Jesus the Living Water. To lose any of these used to identify us here (vv. 14–16). We qualities is to become useless.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US People who strive for wisdom and righteousness— Please pray for Moody Bible people who follow Jesus—will shine like stars Institute Distance Learning (Dan. 12:3). Philippians 2:14–16 tells us how: Don’t headed by vice president, Dr. Bryan O’Neal. Pray for grumble. Stop complaining and arguing. If that encouragement for the MDL’s sounds difficult, try it for one hour, then one day, staff and instructors as they bring then one week. Don’t rely on your own strength; a Moody education to learners instead, pray to do it in God’s strength. across cultures and generations.

30 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 30 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ MATTHEW 6:1924

THURSDAY The eye is the lamp of the body. AUGUST Matthew 6:22 24

Eyes, Light, Passion, and Treasure Eyes have more than two million working eyes or understanding. “Healthy” and parts. They involve about half the brain “unhealthy” eyes are analogous to in the act of seeing. They are the second “generosity” and “stinginess.” most complex organ (after the brain). Eye muscles are the most active in the entire Just as physical eyes let in the light by body, as well as the strongest (relative to which we see material reality, only clear their size). Specific types of cells enable spiritual eyes can see the folly of riches. us to see shapes and colors. And while a Just as a blind person lives in the dark fingerprint has 40 unique characteristics, physically, so coveting or trusting in an iris has 256. wealth is living in the dark spiritually. Just as seeing affects everything else, Today’s passage begins with the idea our attitude to money ripples into many of storing up treasure in heaven (vv. other areas of life: “If then the light 19–21). Earthly treasures are at risk of within you is darkness, how great is that decay and theft. Heavenly treasures are darkness!” (vv. 22–23). eternal and cannot be lost or destroyed. We should prioritize and prize the This one point is crucially important. heavenly ones, seeking after them “No one can serve two masters” or rather than pursuing earthly goods. have divided loyalties (v. 24). God and Good deeds and acts of obedience can money are mutually exclusive in this make us “rich toward God” (Luke 12:21). sense. We live in the most affluent society in history, so we should take this This truth about heavenly treasure warning to heart! can only be seen with clear spiritual

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Putting our hope in earthly riches is futile (see Eccl. Commit to prayer the ministry 5:8–17; Luke 12:13–21). Wealth can be a strong of Steven Mogck, executive VP temptation against faith in God (Matt. 19:24). It and chief operating officer, who oversees our Operations division can also easily lead to greed, pride, abuse of on the Chicago campus. Would power, and other sins. What is our attitude toward you ask for God’s guidance and money and finances? Do we see it as an area of wisdom in balancing his numerous stewardship under the Lordship of Christ? management responsibilities?

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 31

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 31 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ ECCLESIASTES 11:7 12:8

FRIDAY AUGUST Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come. 25 Ecclesiastes 12:1

Remember Your Creator In her poem, “Let Evening Come,” let them enjoy them all” while they can, American writer Jane Kenyon meditated because many “days of darkness” are on death: “Let dew collect on the hoe coming. This is old age. abandoned / in long grass. Let the stars appear / and the moon disclose her The aging process is described both silver horn. / Let the fox go back to its poetically and candidly. The metaphor sandy den. / Let the wind die down. Let of light pictures the sun, moon, and the shed / go black inside. Let evening stars growing dark and clouds covering come. / . . . Let it come, as it will, and the sky, pointing to our literally fading don’t / be afraid. God does not leave us eyesight as well as to the loss of energy / comfortless, so let evening come.” and memory (12:2). From a perspective “under the sun,” then, “youth and vigor Until Christ returns, we must all cross are meaningless,”—not something the river of death. Aging is inevitable. to hope or trust in because they will In today’s reading we’re advised, disappear (11:10). “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth” (12:1), because the fact is God’s judgment is a sobering fact (11:9; that things get harder as one ages. This 12:14), but it does point to an above- piece of advice or basic life truth is also the-sun perspective on life’s eternal stated in terms of light and darkness significance. Therefore, the best (11:7–8). “Light is sweet, and it pleases response is to “remember” our Creator, the eye to see the sun.” This is youth. meaning to live heedful of and obedient Getting older is going to happen, but to His commands. “However many years anyone may live,

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Are you at the point in your life when light is Today, we’d like to single out for sweet and youth and vigor plentiful? Or is the prayer Moody Radio’s Satellite grasshopper dragging itself along (12:5–6)? In Network Operations staff: Peter Dhuse, Sam Beiruti, David either case, the most important question is this: Woodworth, and Eric Hufford. We Are you ready to meet your Maker? Death is not pray that their ministry will reach the end. Are you heading for heaven or hell? many listeners and will continue Remember your Creator! to bring glory to God.

32 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 32 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ EPHESIANS 5:816

SATURDAY The fruit of the light consists in all goodness, AUGUST righteousness and truth. Ephesians 5:9 26

Live as Children of Light Our month’s study has revealed a The only contact we should have with rich, complex, interconnected web of “deeds of darkness” is to expose meanings and themes surrounding them (vv. 11–13). By our light-bearing the imagery of light and dark in words and actions, we will stand for Scripture. Light stands for knowledge, righteousness and play a convicting wisdom, and truth. It is associated role in the lives of others. People living with life, salvation, hope, goodness, in darkness can be unaware of the righteousness, and spiritual alertness. consequences or deceive themselves Darkness, on the other hand, stands for into thinking it’s good, but light by its ignorance, foolishness, and falsehood very nature reveals and undeceives. or ignorance. It is associated with death, The dark will not go willingly—it’s a condemnation, despair, sin, evil, and battle for which we must put on the spiritual sluggishness or sleep. armor of light.

So when Paul commanded us to “live The image of Christ shining in verse 14 as children of light” in today’s passage may come from an early Christian hymn. (v. 8), he was saying a mouthful! Having It may also be an allusion to Isaiah 60:1: been rescued from the dominion of “Arise, shine, for your light has come, darkness into the kingdom of light, and the glory of the Lš›œ rises upon we are to live in keeping with our you.” This is a picture of salvation and new identity. The “fruit of the light” is new spiritual life. Because of these gifts goodness, righteousness, and truth, of God, we are to look for every chance and indeed, anything that pleases God we can to live wisely and by word and (vv. 9–10). deed shine God’s light into a dark world (vv. 15–16).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US One meaning of the biblical metaphor of light Again, please lift up in prayer is spiritual alertness. People living in spiritual Satellite Network’s Jose Lemus, darkness are sluggish, oblivious, or confused. Phil Shappard, Rod Simon, Thomas Svoboda, and Tracy People living in God’s light have life, knowledge, Haney. May the programs they and the power to lead holy lives. Spiritual alertness help broadcast via satellite bring is essential for our prayer lives: “Devote yourselves many Moody Radio listeners to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Col. 4:2). closer to Christ.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 33

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 33 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ PSALM 67

SUNDAY AUGUST May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us. 27 Psalm 67:1

The Shining Light of God’s Face One New Year’s Eve tradition in Spain natural instinct is to focus on ourselves is to eat twelve grapes at the stroke and material blessings. God is, after all, of midnight. That’s one grape for each the “Father of the heavenly lights” and stroke of the clock and one for each giver of all good gifts (James 1:17). But in of the months of the year ahead. It is this psalm, only verse 6 speaks in those said that if you can eat them in the first terms. Even then, the blessing is the twelve seconds, you’ll enjoy good luck harvest, basically meaning the provision throughout the year! of daily bread.

Believers in God look not for luck but Instead, God’s blessing is invoked in for His blessing, often conveyed in the two other ways. First, His ways will be picture of His face shining upon us known throughout the world and His (v. 1). This was, in fact, the standard Old “salvation among all nations” (v. 2). The Testament blessing: “The LŠ‹Œ bless purpose of His blessing in our lives is so you and keep you; the LŠ‹Œ make his that His name, love, and redemption will face shine on you and be gracious to be known and glorified everywhere. you; the LŠ‹Œ turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Num. 6:24–26). It Second, the Lord will be universally was also the prayer of the psalmist: “Let praised and worshiped, as ought to be your face shine on your servant; save the case (vv. 3–5, 7; Phil. 2:10–11). His me in your unfailing love” (Ps. 31:16). authority, justice, and wisdom at work in the world is more than enough reason Psalm 67 teaches us to think anew for gladness, rejoicing, and worship. about the concept of blessing. Our

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This entire psalm is a prayer for God’s name and Dr. Larry Davidhizar, VP and dean salvation to be known and glorified throughout all of faculty, will appreciate your the earth, and for our great King to be universally prayers for his service to Moody’s faculty in the new academic year. praised and worshiped. For His face to shine Please pray for God’s guidance upon us means that we will be part of making this and blessing for the programs of happen! This is a great reason to pray Psalm 67 as faculty development, research, part of your daily prayer time today. and travel.

34 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 34 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ 1 CORINTHIANS 3:1015

MONDAY No one can lay any foundation other than AUGUST the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11 28

Bringing to Light the Worth of a Life Fredric John Baur, a chemist with priorities and activities are merely Proctor & Gamble, was the inventor wood, hay, and straw, while godly of the familiar Pringles can that holds values and pursuits are gold, silver, and stacked potato chips. When he died, precious jewels (vv. 12–13). The latter he asked that he be cremated and a will endure, while the former will be portion of his ashes buried in a Pringles reduced to ashes. can. His children reportedly stopped at a Walgreens on the way to the funeral Paul was speaking of believers here, so home to buy the can, choosing the the difference is not in eternal destiny classic original flavor. but in whether a person earns rewards. If we do the good works God has At the end of your life, what words and prepared for us to do (Eph. 2:10), with actions do you want to endure? The godly motives and for God’s glory, He major metaphor in today’s reading is has promised to reward us. a building metaphor. Individually and communally, our lives are pictured as Alongside the building picture, light construction projects, with the quality is a minor metaphor but it carries a of our building materials to be tested major impact. “The Day will bring it to and evaluated on Judgment Day. The light” means that on Judgment Day the foundation for this building project is Lord will reveal the worth of our lives, Christ, the one and only basis for our including hidden motives and outcomes salvation (v. 11). (v. 13; 1 Cor. 4:5). His justice and mercy are perfect and can be trusted both Are we spending our lives on things today and on that Day! of temporal or eternal value? Earthly

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US A creative exercise for thinking about today’s Today your prayers will be an passage is to write your own obituary. What legacy encouragement for Frank Leber, do you wish to leave behind? If an obituary sounds vice president of Information Technology Services. We are too long, write your own gravestone epitaph grateful for everything his teams instead. Then pray over what you’ve written, do to order, install, and maintain asking the One who is Lord over life and death to the latest in computer technology help you live toward His purposes for your life. for the service of God’s kingdom.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 35

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 35 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ AMOS 5:1827

TUESDAY AUGUST Why do you long for the day of the LORD? That day will be darkness, not light. 29 Amos 5:18

The Day of the Lord Is Darkness not Light Michelangelo’s painting The Last The Israelites thought the Day of the Judgment in the Sistine Chapel focuses L‡ˆ‰ would only be terrible for other on Christ. He is the all-powerful Judge. nations, not them. But due to their He draws the saved figures, rejoicing, to covenant unfaithfulness and sins Himself, and with His other hand directs including idolatry and hypocrisy (vv. that the damned be cast into hell. 21–27), this Day would be darkness Though prior medieval paintings on for them as well— “pitch-dark, without this topic showed social class and rank, a ray of brightness” (vv. 18–20). Other Michelangelo painted his characters prophets also pictured the Day in terms nude to show that their earthly positions of this metaphor. To Joel, it would be meant nothing to God. “a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness” (2:1–2; see Zeph. The Day of the L‡ˆ‰, Amos preached, 1:14–16). Darkness is a metaphor for is not necessarily a day to look forward suffering, confusion, and despair. to. The  Study Bible defines the Day of the Lord as “The time when God will Today’s passage is the earliest use of show himself the victor over the world, this prophetic phrase and in part refers vindicating his claims to be the Lord to the Assyrian conquest of Israel. Amos over all the earth.” For sinners, it is an was calling the Israelites to repent. In occasion of judgment, punishment, the New Testament, Peter used “Day wrath, and justice. The phrase is of the Lord” to refer to Christ’s Second occasionally used with a short-term Coming and similarly called the church future in mind, but always with a larger to live holy lives in light of this certain eschatology behind it. future (2 Peter 3:9–13).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The Day of the Lord is another reason for us to Would you include in your share our faith. Unsaved sinners all around us are prayers Scott Pinnow in Records headed for the event pictured in these distressing Management? Thank the Lord today for his diligent work with images. But their fate isn’t inevitable. We’ve been hundreds of files, so our students entrusted with good news to share with them! If could have all the necessary they call on the name of the Lord, they, too, can be documents and records from the given new life and eternal salvation (Acts 2:21–24). start to graduation.

36 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 36 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ 1 THESSALONIANS 5:111

WEDNESDAY Since we belong to the day, let us be sober, AUGUST putting on faith and love as a breastplate. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 30

When God Changes Your Plans A praise song titled “Children of Light” In the meantime, we are to be proclaims: “It’s a new day / Everything characterized by spiritual alertness or changed / When your love came into the watchfulness, as well as by sobriety darkness / You sent the light of the Son / or self-control (vv. 6–8). We’re to put You sent the light of the Son / Wake up, on faith and love as a breastplate and open your eyes / No longer dead, we are hope as a helmet. alive / Rise up, children of light / Open the doors, go let it shine . . . Hope for the This brief armor metaphor indicates whole world / Let it shine, let it shine.” that faith, hope, and love are the best protection for our heads and hearts. We are “children of the light and For Jewish readers, it would also have children of the day,” Paul exulted (v. 5). evoked the biblical image of God as “We belong to the day” (v. 8). For this a divine warrior who comes to our aid reason, the Day of the Lord, though it (see Isa. 59:17). will come like a “thief in the night” for some, will not shock us (vv. 1–4). Signs At the end of history, Jesus said, “the or “labor pains” will precede this time righteous will shine like the sun in of judgment. More importantly, these the kingdom of their Father” (Matt. events won’t be “darkness” for us but 13:43). Along the way, “the path of the fulfillment of God’s plan. We’ve the righteous is like the morning sun, been chosen for salvation, and on that shining ever brighter till the full light of Day we will come to “live together with day” (Prov. 4:18). him” (vv. 9–10).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today’s reading provides our application: Bruce Everhart, VP of Donor “Therefore encourage one another and build each Development and Channel other up, just as in fact you are doing” (v. 11). We’re Strategy, welcomes your prayers for Moody’s outreach to encourage others with the truths about the Day to our donors and fundraising. of the Lord and Christ’s return. Even for those Please also pray that Bruce’s who have already fallen “asleep” (died), Jesus has service would continue to be an conquered the grave and eternal life awaits! encouragement to his teams.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 37

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 37 5/19/17 3:36 PM READ ISAIAH 60:120

THURSDAY AUGUST The LORD will be your everlasting light, and your days of sorrow will end. 31 Isaiah 60:20

The City of Light and the Glory of God A recent study by the National Bureau recognize and bow down before the of Economic Research reported that Lord Almighty (vv. 4, 8–9). Israel will New York City is the most miserable hold the primary place, ahead of nations city in America. Pittsburgh and Detroit that had oppressed them (vv. 10–14). were among the runners-up. Negative Peace will replace violence. These factors included rent increases, cold reversals will prove beyond all doubt temperatures, and stress. Richmond that God loves and redeems His people and Norfolk, Virginia, on the other (vv. 15–18). hand, along with Washington, D.C., were ranked as the happiest cities with Darkness will be ended—sin and death populations of at least one million. will be no more. Instead, “the Lš›œ will be your everlasting light” (vv. 19–20). Not even the happiest cities can hold a This new Jerusalem, the city of God, will candle to the Heavenly City in today’s not need the sun or the moon, for “the reading. In the midst of darkness and glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb trouble, sin and confusion, the Lord is its lamp” (Rev. 21:23). arrives and His glory lights up the earth. The result? “Nations will come to your To conclude this month’s study, light, and kings to the brightness of Paul’s benediction is appropriate: your dawn” (v. 3). “God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who This is the end of history, the climax alone is immortal and who lives in of God’s plan of salvation. Blessings unapproachable light, whom no one has of peace and prosperity will abound seen or can see. To him be honor and (vv. 5–7). The whole world will might forever. Amen” (1 Tim. 6:15–16).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Since today concludes our study of the imagery Please pray today for Moody of light and darkness in Scripture, it’s a good day Theological Seminary in Plymouth, to reflect on what you’ve learned this month. Mich., where new student orientation starts today. It’s a busy Take time to review key Bible passages and the time for Paul Wilson in Student devotional readings. In your time of prayer, ask the Services and Amber Tucker in Lord to help you remember what you’ve learned Administration and Support, who and to continue to guide you in His light. will appreciate your prayers.

38 TODAY IN THE WORD

TIW_August_2017_2C_ic.indd 38 5/19/17 3:36 PM In the Market with Janet Parshall

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TIW_August_2017_4C_ic.indd 3 5/19/17 3:19 PM WANT TO RELEASE YOUR WORRIES?

Many of us know the Bible says not to be anxious, but how practically do we do that?

How to Overcome Worry gives the answer. Moody professor Dr. Winfred Neely, who has experienced his fair share of anxieties, walks readers through Philippians 4:6–7 to help them release worry and experience the peace of God. If you want to know how to give your concerns over to God, read this book.

Find it at your local or online bookstore or buy directly from Moody Publishers by calling (800) 678-8812 or at moodypublishers.com.

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