Flourish

A tree planted in the courtyard of the temple symbolized the thriving conditions of those who maintain a close relationship with the Lord.

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Psalm 92:13.

Flourish

Flourish

Two ways of living

Representative of the theme of the book, Hosea’s epilogue concludes the prophecy by presenting the reader with two ways of living (compare to Deuteronomy 30:19,20 and Psalm 1).  He appeals to all readers to be wise, to choose the Lord’s way, for His ways are right (compare to Psalm 107:43; Ecclesiastes 12:13,14).

Commentary from the MacArthur study Bible, notes for Hosea 14:9.

Dependence is not defeat

We often depend on our own skills and abilities when life seems easy, but when we feel powerless to help ourselves, we turn to God.  We must recognize that even when life seems easy we are dependent upon God, for He upholds the universe with His power.  Dependence is not defeat, but the realization that our source of truth and power is God.  With this attitude, problems drive us to God rather than away from Him.  Learn how to depend on God daily.

Commentary from The One Year NIV Devotional, April 17.  Tyndale House Publishers, 2003.

Who is he?

How happy is the man

who does not follow the advice

of the wicked,

or take the path of sinners,

or join a group of mockers!

Instead, his delight

is in the Lord’s instruction,

and he meditates on it

day and night.

Psalm 1:1-2