Interesting, understandable, and practical are words that are rarely used to characterize the Minor Prophets, and it is not unusual for believers to “hurry through” when they come to them in the normal sequence of their Bible reading. For them, reading through the Minor Prophets is simply an exercise in discipline, and little, if any, positive, recognizable benefit is gained from the effort.
Studies in the Minor Prophets is written from the perspective of a pastor seeking to help his people overcome that obstacle. Historical setting, contemporary relevance, and prophetic significance are all carefully examined in each prophecy. Sensible, easy to understand outlines are included and a practical application is offered for each believer. As the study unfolds, certain truths become obvious. It is impossible to ignore God’s incomprehensible holiness, His unconditional love for His people, and His eternal commitment to fulfill His promises. As God concluded His communication to the people of Israel for 400 years with the message of His prophet Malachi, He stated, “I am the LORD, I change not” (Malachi 3:6). Studies in the Minor Prophets reminds us of the never changing character of our sovereign God.
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To some people, saying that David had a godly heart is almost offensive. How do you apply that description to a man whose legacy includes neglecting responsibilities, lust, adultery, murder, deception, hypocrisy, and callous indifference? Saul, David’s predecessor as king of Israel, was guilty of deliberate rebellion, but Scripture gives no account of him ever engaging in the kind of disgusting activity that characterized David’s behavior during his sin with Bathsheba. Yet Saul, when he sought forgiveness, was rejected. What made David different?
David: The Godly Heart of a Sinful Man examines David’s heart, identifying specific character qualities that influenced his response when confronted with his sin. Humility, honesty, and confession were common, and it was evident that David cared more about getting right with God than defending his actions. There was no effort to justify his sin or excuse himself, and he never tried to shift the blame to others. David understood that God cared more about the contrite attitude of a broken heart than the false piety of an insincere sacrifice. He knew he would never, by his own efforts, meet God’s standard of perfection.
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Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loveth at all times, but a brother is born for adversity.” It would be wonderful if every family would model the principle teaching of that verse. The application is simple: A genuine friend will always show compassion, but a “brother,” one who is also born into the family, will naturally take up the cause of his sibling, fighting on his behalf against an adversary. Unfortunately for Joseph, that did not happen. Instead, Joseph was hated by his brothers. What began for Joseph’s brothers as hatred soon progressed to an intent to murder. Although Joseph survived their plan for his demise, their actions set in motion a period of 20 years of adversity. Instead of providing support, as the proverb says, they initiated his mistreatment.
Joseph: The Godly Perspective of a Mistreated Man examines the brutal circumstances that Joseph encountered while pursuing righteousness, both in his attitude and behavior. Somehow, Joseph found the inner strength to endure each challenge with extraordinary grace. What was his secret, and how did he eventually reach the conclusion that “God meant it for good?”
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