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What happens when the enemy declares your situation is completely hopeless? Today on Day 191, we witness the absolute limits of human threats when they collide with the sovereign power of God. In 2 Kings, King Hezekiah spreads a threatening letter from the king of Assyria directly before the Lord in the Temple. God answers through the prophet Isaiah with one of the most stunning rescues in history—destroying the massive besieging army in a single night. In the book of Acts, the shipwrecked passengers wash ashore on the island of Malta. The physical storm is over, but a new threat emerges when a deadly viper latches onto Paul's hand as he gathers firewood. The local islanders assume it is divine punishment, but Paul simply shakes the snake off into the fire, completely unharmed. From the fireside of Malta to his final journey to Rome, God makes it clear that nothing can stop His messenger before his work is complete. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 19:14–20:21 – Hezekiah receives a blasphemous letter from Assyria, laying it out before the Lord. Isaiah prophesies that Assyria will not shoot a single arrow into Jerusalem. That night, the angel of the Lord strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. In chapter 20, Hezekiah falls terminally ill; he weeps and prays, and God grants him 15 more years, turning back the shadow on the sundial ten steps. Later, Hezekiah foolishly shows Babylonian envoys all his treasures, drawing Isaiah's prophecy of future exile. 📖 Acts 28:1–16 – Shipwrecked on Malta, the locals show unusual kindness. As Paul puts a bundle of sticks on the fire, a viper bites his hand. When he suffers no ill effects, the locals change their minds, calling him a god. Paul heals the father of Publius, the chief man of the island, along with many other sick citizens. After three months, they sail on an Alexandrian ship, landing in Italy where believers meet Paul, filling him with courage as he finally enters Rome under house guard. 📖 Psalm 83:1–18 – A prayer of Asaph against a hostile coalition of nations conspiring to wipe out the name of Israel. He asks God to scatter them like tumbleweed and fill their faces with shame so that they will know that Yahweh alone is the Most High over all the earth. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 19, 2 Kings 20, Acts 28, Psalm 83, Hezekiah's prayer letter, 185000 Assyrians killed, sundial shadow backwards, Babylonian envoys, Malta shipwreck, viper bite, Publius healed, Paul enters Rome, audio bible.

How do you hold onto faith when you are completely surrounded by destruction? Today on Day 190, we encounter two immense, overwhelming storms—one geopolitical and one meteorological. In 2 Kings, the devastating Assyrian empire, fresh off destroying the northern kingdom, marches straight to the gates of Jerusalem. King Hezekiah stands fast in his trust in God, refusing to buckle even when the arrogant Rabshakeh hurls psychological warfare and blasphemous taunts over the city walls. In the book of Acts, the storm Paul warned about strikes with terrifying force. A nor'easter tempest traps the ship at sea for two weeks, obliterating all human hope of survival. Yet, in the middle of absolute darkness and panic, the prisoner Paul takes structural leadership of the vessel. Armed with a promise from an angel of God, he brings calm to the crew, breaks bread in thanksgiving, and guides all 276 souls safely through a chaotic shipwreck onto dry land. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 18:1–19:13 – Godly King Hezekiah cleanses Judah, smashing pagan high places and even Moses' bronze serpent, which the people had turned into an idol. When Sennacherib of Assyria invades, he sends his commander, the Rabshakeh, to deliver a terrifying speech mocking Hezekiah's trust in God and claiming no god can save Jerusalem. Grief-stricken, Hezekiah tears his clothes and sends word to the prophet Isaiah, who delivers a reassuring word that the Lord will cause Sennacherib to retreat. 📖 Acts 27:13–44 – A violent tempest called a tempestuous Euroclydon strikes the ship, driving it helplessly for days. The crew throws the cargo and tackle overboard, losing all hope. Paul steps forward, revealing an angel promised that no lives would be lost, only the ship. As they near land, Paul stops the sailors from abandoning the passengers, encourages everyone to eat bread, and gives thanks. The ship runs aground on a reef and breaks apart, but everyone safely makes it to shore on planks. 📖 Psalm 82:1–8 – A striking divine assembly where God takes His stand to judge unjust human rulers: "How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked?" The psalmist pleads for justice for the weak and fatherless, concluding with a call for God to arise and inherit all the nations. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 18, 2 Kings 19, Acts 27, Psalm 82, King Hezekiah reform, Rabshakeh speech, Sennacherib invasion, Euroclydon storm, shipwreck Malta, Paul breaks bread, take courage, divine assembly, audio bible.

What happens when warnings are ignored for too long? Today on Day 189, we reach one of the most tragic and pivotal turning points in the Old Testament storyline alongside a literal storm brewing in the New Testament. In 2 Kings, the northern kingdom of Israel hits the point of no return. After centuries of ignoring the prophets, building pagan shrines, and compromising their identity, the hammer of judgment falls. The superpower Assyria conquers Samaria, carrying the ten northern tribes away into exile and closing a dark chapter of rebellion. In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul faces a different kind of looming disaster. After his powerful defense, King Agrippa and Governor Festus admit Paul is innocent but must go to Rome because of his legal appeal. Placed on a ship as a prisoner, Paul sets sail under brutal weather conditions. Recognizing the danger ahead, Paul issues an urgent warning to the crew—but just like ancient Israel, the ship’s authorities choose to ignore the prophet, steering straight into a dangerous voyage. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 16:1–17:41 – In Judah, wicked King Ahaz plunders the Temple to buy Syrian protection and sets up a pagan altar in Jerusalem. In the north, Hoshea becomes the final king of Israel. King Shalmaneser of Assyria discovers Hoshea's secret alliance with Egypt, besieges Samaria for three years, and carries Israel away into exile. The text explicitly states this happened because Israel sinned against the Lord, adopted foreign customs, and hardened their necks. Assyria repopulates the land with foreigners, creating a compromised, syncretistic religion. 📖 Acts 26:24–27:12 – Festus interrupts Paul, shouting that his great learning is driving him mad. Paul calmly replies that his words are true and rational, turning to King Agrippa, who remarks, "In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?" Agrippa notes Paul could have been freed if he hadn't appealed to Caesar. Paul is handed over to a centurion named Julius and boards a ship for Rome. Sailing becomes slow and dangerous due to contrary winds. At Fair Havens, Paul warns them that the voyage will bring injury and loss, but the centurion listens to the ship's captain instead. 📖 Psalm 81:8–16 – God pleads with His people to listen and have no foreign gods among them. He laments, "But my people did not listen to my voice... So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts." He declares that if they would only obey, He would quickly subdue their enemies and satisfy them with honey from the rock. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0).

What happens when great power meets personal pride? Today on Day 188, we explore the sharp dividing line between human arrogance and a life radically surrendered to the King. In 2 Kings, we wade through a chaotic and bloody era of shifting thrones. Kings rise, assassinate their rivals, and fall into deep spiritual compromise. We watch a highly successful king named Azariah become so powerful that pride takes over his heart, leading to a tragic, disease-stricken end outside his own palace. In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul stands in a glittering room filled with royal guards and high-ranking officials. Facing King Agrippa, Paul doesn't act like a desperate prisoner begging for his life. Instead, he speaks with absolute authority and poise, detailing his dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus and using his legal defense as an open invitation for royalty to meet the resurrected Messiah. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 14:23–15:38 – Jeroboam II rules Israel, expanding its borders out of God's pity for the nation. After him, Israel spirals into constant assassinations, with Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, and Pekah taking the throne through bloodshed. In Judah, King Azariah (Uzziah) reigns with great military success, but he acts proudly, resulting in the Lord striking him with leprosy for the rest of his life. His faithful son Jotham takes over management of the palace. 📖 Acts 25:23–26:23 – King Agrippa and Bernice arrive with grand pomp at the auditorium. Festus admits he has no valid charges to write to Caesar, so Paul is permitted to speak. Paul expresses joy at defending himself before someone well-versed in Jewish customs. He recounts his life as a strict Pharisee, his intense persecution of Christians, and the blinding light on the road to Damascus where Jesus commanded him to open the eyes of the Gentiles. Paul asserts he has said nothing beyond what Moses and the prophets foretold. 📖 Proverbs 16:18–27 – A powerful section on pride and words: "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Solomon reminds us that a wise heart makes speech wise, and notes that pleasant words are like a honeycomb—sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGALThe Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software.Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 14, 2 Kings 15, Acts 25, Acts 26, Proverbs 16, King Azariah leprosy, Uzziah, Israel assassinations, King Agrippa, Damascus road conversion, Paul before Agrippa, pride before destruction, audio bible.

How does God secure His purposes when political corruption tries to box them in? Today on Day 187, we navigate seasons of institutional restoration alongside high-stakes political maneuvering. In 2 Kings, the young king Joash takes accountability for the house of God, establishing a dedicated chest system to bypass administrative neglect and directly fund repairs for the Temple. Yet, the spiritual landscape remains volatile as kings slide into old habits and Elisha gives his final, deathbed prophecy. In the book of Acts, the ongoing conspiracy against the apostle Paul lands before a brand-new Roman governor, Festus. Refusing to let a corrupt system trade his life for political favors, Paul utilizes his ultimate legal right as a Roman citizen. With a single, sharp declaration—"I appeal to Caesar"—he shatters his opponents' local plots and forces open the doors for the gospel to travel straight to the heart of the Roman Empire. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 12:1–14:22 – King Joash reigns well while guided by Jehoiada the priest, commissioning a chest with a hole in its lid to collect funds for needed Temple repairs. After Jehoiada dies, Joash compromises, using Temple gold to buy off Syria. Following his assassination, Jehoahaz and Jehoash rule Israel through deep spiritual decline, though Elisha delivers a final victory prophecy before dying. In Judah, Amaziah conquers Edom but foolishly provokes Israel into a civil war that leaves Jerusalem's walls broken. 📖 Acts 25:1–22 – Governor Festus replaces Felix, and religious leaders immediately request Paul be transferred to Jerusalem, planning to ambush and kill him. Festus holds a trial in Caesarea instead. When Festus tries to appease the accusers by asking Paul to stand trial in Jerusalem, Paul asserts his citizenship: "I stand before Caesar's tribunal... I appeal to Caesar." Festus grants the appeal, and shortly after, King Agrippa arrives to hear Paul's high-profile defense. 📖 Psalm 81:1–7 – An enthusiastic song of praise calling Israel to sing aloud to God, blow the trumpet at the new moon, and remember how He delivered them from the heavy burdens of Egypt, answering them from the secret place of thunder. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 12, 2 Kings 13, 2 Kings 14, Acts 25, Psalm 81, Joash chest temple repair, Elisha deathbed arrows, Amaziah pride, Governor Festus, Paul appeals to Caesar, King Agrippa, Roman tribunal, audio bible.

What happens when God purges corruption to rescue the future of His people? Today on Day 186, we watch institutional layout changes shift rapidly under the hand of divine justice. In 2 Kings, Jehu executes a ruthless, sweeping purge of Ahab's descendants and traps the worshipers of Baal inside their own temple, wiping out the pagan cult from Israel. Meanwhile, in Judah, a brave aunt hides a baby prince named Joash from an assassination massacre, preserving the royal line of David from total extinction. In the book of Acts, the venue changes to a formal Roman courtroom in Caesarea. High-ranking accusers hire a smooth-talking lawyer to label the apostle Paul a dangerous plague. Standing in chains, Paul delivers a masterclass defense before Governor Felix, refusing to compromise the truth. Instead of begging for freedom, Paul turns the tables—boldly reasoning about righteousness and self-control until the governor himself trembles with fear. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 10:1–11:21 – Jehu systematically eradicates the seventy sons of Ahab and trickily gathers all prophets of Baal into their temple, slaughtering them and turning the site into a latrine. In Judah, wicked Athaliah seizes the throne and attempts to murder the entire royal family. However, baby Joash is hidden in the Temple for six years by his aunt. Jehoiada the priest eventually launches a coup, crowns the seven-year-old Joash, and orders Athaliah executed, restoring covenant worship. 📖 Acts 24:1–27 – The high priest Ananias and an orator named Tertullus bring formal charges against Paul before Governor Felix, calling him a ringleader of a pestilent sect. Paul flatly denies causing a riot, asserting his clear conscience and hope in the resurrection. Felix delays the trial for two years. During this time, he and his wife Drusilla listen to Paul speak. As Paul reasons about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix becomes alarmed and leaves Paul imprisoned to curry favor with the Jews. 📖 Psalm 80:8–19 – Asaph uses the imagery of a vine brought out of Egypt, lamenting that its walls are broken down and wild beasts devour it. He begs God to look down from heaven, visit this vine, and restore His people by the hand of the man at His right hand. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 10, 2 Kings 11, Acts 24, Psalm 80, Jehu Baal purge, Queen Athaliah, Joash hidden temple, Jehoiada coup, Tertullus lawyer, Paul before Felix, Drusilla, righteousness self-control judgment, audio bible.

How does God protect His servants and execute His justice when corruption reaches its peak? Today on Day 185, we see the wheels of divine accountability moving with terrifying speed alongside a brilliant, undercover rescue operation. In 2 Kings, the toxic legacy of King Ahab’s household faces final judgment. God anoints a military commander named Jehu to aggressively end the wicked dynasty. Riding like a madman, Jehu systematically cuts down corrupt kings and brings a sudden, dramatic end to Queen Jezebel. In the book of Acts, a frantic assassination plot brews in Jerusalem. Forty religious extremists vow not to eat or drink until they murder the apostle Paul. But their dark secret is completely blown when Paul’s young nephew overhears the plan. Moving swiftly under the cover of night, a Roman commander coordinates a massive military escort to smuggle Paul safely out of the city, proving that no human conspiracy can touch a man under God’s protection. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 8:16–9:37 – After evil reigns under Joram in Judah, Elisha sends a young prophet to secretly anoint Jehu as the next king of Israel, charging him to wipe out the house of Ahab. Jehu drives his chariot furiously to Jezreel, killing King Joram of Israel with an arrow and mortally wounding King Ahaziah of Judah. Arriving at the palace, Jehu orders Jezebel's eunuchs to throw her out of a high window, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy that dogs would devour her carcass. 📖 Acts 23:12–35 – More than forty Jewish men form a conspiracy, binding themselves by an oath to assassinate Paul. Paul's nephew uncovers the plot and alerts the Roman tribune, Claudius Lysias. Lysias immediately mobilizes an army of 470 soldiers, horsemen, and spearmen to escort Paul at night to Governor Felix in Caesarea. Reading Lysias' letter explaining Paul’s innocence regarding Roman law, Felix orders Paul guarded in Herod's praetorium until his accusers arrive. 📖 Psalm 80:1–7 – Asaph cries out to the Shepherd of Israel, pleading for corporate restoration: "Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved!" He laments that God has fed His people with the bread of tears amid the mockery of their neighbors. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 8, 2 Kings 9, Acts 23, Psalm 80, Jehu anointing, Jezebel death, Ahab's house judged, assassination plot, Paul's nephew, Claudius Lysias, Caesarea escort, Governor Felix, audio bible.

How does God deliver His people when all hope seems entirely lost? Today on Day 184, we step into extreme crises where God creates breakthrough out of thin air. In 2 Kings, a horrific famine squeezes Samaria under siege until the situation looks completely irreversible. But using four outcasted lepers, God causes a massive enemy army to panic and flee, turning a desperate starvation crisis into an overnight feast of abundance. In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul faces intense legal and physical crossfire in Jerusalem. Facing a brutal scourging and a chaotic courtroom brawl between the Pharisees and Sadducees, Paul is forcefully pulled out of the fray by Roman guards. Locked in a dark cell, Paul receives the ultimate visitation: Jesus Himself stands by his side, telling him to take courage because his mission isn't finished yet. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 6:24–8:15 – A brutal Syrian siege leaves Samaria in starvation. Elisha prophesies an overnight economic collapse, which the king's officer mocks. That night, God makes the Syrians hear the sound of a vast army, causing them to abandon their camp. Four desperate lepers discover the camp deserted, feast on the food, and report the good news, instantly flooding Samaria with provisions. In chapter 8, the Shunammite woman recovers her land, and Elisha predicts Hazael will become the brutal king of Syria. 📖 Acts 22:22–23:11 – The Jerusalem mob erupts at Paul's mention of the Gentiles. The Roman tribune orders Paul scourged, but stops when Paul reveals his Roman citizenship. The next day, Paul stands before the Sanhedrin, cleverly splitting the council by declaring his hope in the resurrection, causing a massive dispute between Pharisees and Sadducees. The tribune rescues Paul by force, and that night, Jesus appears to Paul: "Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome." 📖 Proverbs 16:8–17 – Wisdom on paths, choices, and justice: "Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice." Solomon reminds us that the heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps, and declares that a righteous king abhors wickedness. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 6, 2 Kings 7, 2 Kings 8, Acts 22, Acts 23, Proverbs 16, Samaria famine, four lepers, Syrian camp, Roman citizen, Sanhedrin division, resurrection hope, take courage, Jesus stands by Paul, audio bible.

What happens when God exposes our pride to display His breathtaking power? Today on Day 183, we see human expectations completely turned upside down. In 2 Kings, the prophet Elisha handles everything from poisoned stew and a floating axe head to a Syrian general named Naaman who must swallow his pride to be healed of leprosy. Later, when an entire army surrounds Elisha, he prays for his servant's eyes to be opened to see a mountain filled with angelic horses and chariots of fire. In the book of Acts, the warning prophecies about Paul come to life. Captured by an angry mob in the Jerusalem temple, Paul is rescued at the last second by Roman soldiers. Standing on the barracks steps, Paul uses his moment of arrest not to beg for mercy, but to boldly share his testimony of encountering the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 4:38–6:23 – Elisha purifies a pot of toxic stew and multiplies a small offering of bread. In chapter 5, Naaman, a powerful Syrian commander, seeks healing for leprosy. Furious when Elisha tells him to wash seven times in the muddy Jordan River, Naaman finally obeys and is made completely clean. In chapter 6, Elisha makes an iron axe head float, and later traps a Syrian army by blinding them, revealing to his panicked servant that "those who are with us are more than those who are with them." 📖 Acts 21:27–22:21 – A mob attacks Paul in the temple, falsely accusing him of defiling it. The Roman tribune rescues him from being beaten to death and binds him with chains. Granted permission to speak from the barracks steps, Paul addresses the crowd in Hebrew, recounting his strict upbringing, his zealous persecution of the early church, his blinding encounter with Jesus, and his direct calling to carry the gospel to the Gentiles. 📖 Psalm 79:1–13 – A raw communal lament detailing the destruction of Jerusalem by hostile nations, crying out, "How long, O Lord? Will you be angry forever?" The psalmist begs for deliverance and finishes with a vow to give thanks for all generations. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 4, 2 Kings 5, 2 Kings 6, Acts 21, Acts 22, Psalm 79, Naaman leprosy, Jordan River, floating axe head, chariots of fire Elisha, Paul arrested temple, Roman tribune, Damascus road testimony, audio bible.

What happens when God asks us to step out in faith before we see the solution? Today on Day 182, we witness remarkable, life-giving miracles operating in the desert alongside a resolute apostle who refuses to back down from his assignment. In 2 Kings, the prophet Elisha steps into his new role with staggering authority. He commands a stranded army to dig dry ditches that God miraculously fills with water, rescues a bankrupt widow from slavery by multiplying her oil, and raises a hospitable Shunammite woman's dead son back to life. In the book of Acts, we watch Paul’s journey to Jerusalem reach its tense climax. At every single stop, disciples warned by the Holy Spirit beg him not to go. A prophet named Agabus even uses a graphic visual sign to show that Paul will be bound by the authorities. Yet, anchored by a deep conviction, Paul pushes forward into the city, willing not only to be bound but to die for the name of Jesus. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 3:1–4:37 – An alliance of kings faces a water crisis in the desert while fighting Moab. Elisha calls for a musician, and under the hand of the Lord, commands them to dig ditches, which are filled with water overnight without wind or rain. In chapter 4, Elisha multiplies a poor widow’s jar of oil until every borrowed vessel is full, saving her sons from creditors. Later, he promises a son to a prominent, hospitable Shunammite woman; when the boy suddenly dies years later, Elisha stretches over him until the child sneezes seven times and opens his eyes. 📖 Acts 21:1–26 – Paul sails toward Jerusalem, stopping at Tyre and Caesarea. The believers repeatedly urge him through the Spirit not to set foot in Jerusalem. Agabus the prophet takes Paul’s belt, binds his own hands and feet, and declares that the Holy Spirit says the Jews will bind the owner of this belt. The disciples weep and plead, but Paul responds, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die." Arriving in Jerusalem, Paul meets with James and joins a purification ritual to ease local tensions. 📖 Psalm 78:56–72 – Asaph tracks how Israel rebelled yet again, moving God to jealousy with high places and idols. God temporarily abandoned His dwelling at Shiloh, but eventually chose the tribe of Judah, built His sanctuary like the high heavens, and chose David from the sheepfolds to shepherd His people with integrity. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0).

What legacy do you leave behind when your assignment on earth is complete? Today on Day 181, we encounter two of the most emotionally gripping transitions in the entire biblical narrative. In 2 Kings, the monumental ministry of Elijah comes to a spectacular finish. As he and his faithful successor Elisha cross the Jordan, a chariot of fire sweeps Elijah up into heaven in a whirlwind, leaving behind his mantle and a double portion of his prophetic spirit to carry on the work. In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul delivers a deeply emotional farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church. Knowing that chains and afflictions await him in Jerusalem, Paul retraces his footsteps, performs a miraculous resurrection of a young man who fell from a third-story window, and tearfully commits the leaders to the word of God's grace, leaving an unforgettable template for spiritual leadership. Today’s Scripture: 📖 2 Kings 1:1–2:25 – King Ahaziah falls through a lattice and sends messengers to consult a pagan god, drawing a swift rebuke from Elijah. The king sends three separate companies of fifty soldiers to arrest the prophet; fire consumes the first two groups before Elijah spares the third. In chapter 2, Elijah is taken to heaven by a whirlwind accompanied by a chariot of fire. Elisha picks up Elijah's fallen mantle, splits the Jordan River, purifies a toxic water supply in Jericho, and encounters immediate opposition from mockers near Bethel. 📖 Acts 20:1–38 – Paul travels through Macedonia and Greece. During a late-night meeting in Troas, a young man named Eutychus falls asleep in a window during Paul’s long sermon, plummets three stories to his death, and is miraculously raised to life by Paul. Landing at Miletus, Paul sends for the Ephesian elders. He reminds them of his tears and trials, declares he is innocent of their blood because he taught the whole counsel of God, and warns them to guard the flock against fierce wolves. 📖 Psalm 78:40–55 – Asaph continues the historical psalm, tracking how often Israel rebelled in the wilderness, forgetting the plagues of Egypt, the dividing of the Red Sea, and how God drove out the nations before them to give them an inheritance. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 2 Kings 1, 2 Kings 2, Acts 20, Psalm 78, Elijah fire from heaven, chariot of fire, Elisha mantle, double portion, Eutychus raised, Ephesian elders farewell, whole counsel of God, fierce wolves, audio bible.

This is a re-recorded version of a sermon I delivered at Hutto Bible Church.

What happens when human systems unite to drown out the voice of truth? Today on Day 180, we reach a dramatic intersection where prideful rulers and angry mobs try to control their own destinies. In 1 Kings, King Ahab surrounds himself with hundreds of comforting, yes-man prophets who promise him military victory. Only one man, Micaiah, dares to speak the devastating truth of God. Ahab tries to outsmart the prophecy by entering the battle in disguise, but a stray arrow cuts through his armor, proving that no human scheme can hide from divine judgment. In the book of Acts, the economic and cultural impact of the gospel sets off a massive riot in Ephesus. A local silversmith realizes that Paul's preaching is destroying the lucrative market for pagan idols. He whips a stadium crowd into a two-hour frenzy of chanting for the goddess Artemis, showing how violently a culture will react when its economic and religious idols are directly threatened by the true King. Today’s Scripture: 📖 1 Kings 22:1–53 – Ahab allies with King Jehoshaphat of Judah to retake Ramoth-gilead. While 400 false prophets predict success, the lone prophet Micaiah warns that Israel will be scattered on the mountains. Furious, Ahab imprisons Micaiah and goes to war in disguise while Jehoshaphat wears royal robes. A Syrian soldier draws his bow at random, hitting Ahab between the scale armor and breastplate. Ahab bleeds out in his chariot, and dogs lick up his blood at the pool of Samaria, exactly as Elijah foretold. 📖 Acts 19:14–41 – The seven sons of Sceva try to cast out demons using Jesus' name without knowing Him, only for the demon-possessed man to overpower and strip them naked. Later, Demetrius the silversmith panics over losing business making shrines for Artemis. He incites a chaotic mob that drags Paul’s companions into the great theater, shouting for two hours, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" The town clerk finally quiets the crowd, warning them of rioting charges and dismissing the assembly. 📖 Proverbs 15:31–16:7 – Wisdom on plans and pride: "The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor." Solomon reminds us that all the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit, and encourages us to commit our work to the Lord. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 1 Kings 22, Acts 19, Proverbs 15, Proverbs 16, Micaiah prophet, Ahab death, random arrow, Jehoshaphat, sons of Sceva, Demetrius silversmith, Artemis Ephesus, theater riot, audio bible.

What happens when corrupt human authority collides with the uncompromised justice of God? Today on Day 179, we witness the stark contrast between the entitlement of a wicked royal palace and the humility of a growing church. In 1 Kings, King Ahab throws a temper tantrum when a godly citizen refuses to sell his family inheritance. Queen Jezebel steps in with a cold-blooded, corrupt conspiracy to murder the innocent landowner for his vineyard, triggering a swift, terrifying announcement of judgment from the prophet Elijah. In the book of Acts, we watch the explosive expansion of the gospel into Ephesus. From Corinth to Asia Minor, the Lord protects His workers and deepens the understanding of His people. We watch a brilliant preacher named Apollos get gently aligned with the full truth, and we stand by as Paul lays hands on believers who had only known the baptism of John, ushering them into the full, dynamic power of the Holy Spirit. Today’s Scripture: 📖 1 Kings 20:1–21:29 – King Ben-hadad of Syria besieges Samaria, but God grants Ahab a miraculous victory to prove He is the Lord. Ahab foolishly spares the Syrian king, drawing prophetic condemnation. In chapter 21, Ahab demands the vineyard of Naboth, who refuses to yield his ancestral inheritance. Jezebel suborns false witnesses to stone Naboth for blasphemy. As Ahab goes to claim the land, Elijah confronts him, predicting that dogs will lick up Ahab's blood and consume Jezebel. Ahab humbles himself, causing God to delay the disaster. 📖 Acts 18:9–19:13 – Jesus appears to Paul in Corinth, promising protection: "I have many data points... many people in this city." Paul stays 18 months. Apollos arrives in Ephesus preaching boldly but only knowing John's baptism; Priscilla and Aquila explain the way of God more accurately to him. In chapter 19, Paul finds twelve disciples in Ephesus who had not heard of the Holy Spirit. He baptizes them in the name of Jesus, lays hands on them, and the Holy Spirit comes upon them in tongues and prophecy. 📖 Psalm 78:32–39 – Asaph reflects on God's incredible mercy toward an unfaithful nation. Even when they flattered Him with lies, God, being compassionate, forgave their iniquity and restrained His anger, remembering that they were but flesh, a wind that passes and comes not again. RESOURCES & READ-ALONG 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYKi8-_5xHGL_nFAZOthHtZhcb4CqW4ZF 📖 Follow the Text (LEB): https://biblia.com/books/leb/ 🗓️ Download the Full Plan: https://www.biblica.com/resources/reading-plans/ CONNECT & SUPPORT 📧 Questions? Scott: [email protected] 🎁 Partner with Us: https://huttobible.churchcenter.com/giving/to/go-pastor-support 📩 Ministry Updates: https://scott-purcell.epistle.org/subscribe CREDITS & LEGAL The Lexham English Bible is used by permission. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Music: "Be The Hero" by Pumpupthemind via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0). Keywords: 1 Kings 20, 1 Kings 21, Acts 18, Acts 19, Psalm 78, Ahab and Ben-hadad, Naboth's vineyard, Jezebel plot, Elijah's prophecy, Apollos Ephesus, Priscilla and Aquila, baptism of John, Holy Spirit Ephesus, audio bible.