Matthew 10:1-16; Mark 6:6-13; Luke 9:1-6, TBC Book Two, Chapter 45
Early in the morning, Jesus gathered his twelve disciples and said that they were not to follow him—they were to spread out and do the very things they had seen him do. Meanwhile, he would travel too, preaching the kingdom of God, healing the sick, and making disciples.

Jesus laid hands on his Apostles and prayed over them. In doing this, he gave each one of them the authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal all kinds of sickness and diseases. . . .

“Now listen,” Jesus said, “and I will tell you what you must do. First of all, do not travel in the towns of the Gentiles or even the Samaritans. Instead, I want you to go to the lost sheep of Israel. In each place you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near.’ Heal those who are sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who are lepers, and drive out demonic spirits. Just as I have given freely to you, so also must you give freely to others. . . .'
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“I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be careful. You must be as cunning as snakes, yet as harmless as doves.. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 45, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Discipleship is Spirit-directed and discerning: “Be shrewd as serpents, harmless as doves.”
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.’ “ John 16:13 NIV
     A praise to fill you: We Are His Hands  WhiteHeart     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Matthew 9:27-38, TBC Book Two, Chapter 44
When Jesus and his three disciples emerged from the house of Jairus, a large crowd was there waiting for them. As Jesus left, some of the neighbors went in to comfort Jairus and his wife, but they were shocked at what they saw—there was the young girl, sitting at the table and eating.

Jesus and his disciples kept walking, and the crowd followed as they went. Two men in the crowd shouted, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!”

The crowd was loud and noisy, but the men kept shouting. Finally Jesus made his way to the house where he and his disciples would be staying. When Jesus went in, the two men followed him, feeling their way, for they were blind.

Once inside the house, Jesus turned to them and said, “Do you really believe that I am able to heal you?”

“Yes, Lord,” they both replied.

Jesus then reached out to both men, touched their eyes, and prayed, “According to the faith you have, may it be done to you. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 44, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Faith is a currency that grows in value as we use it.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘Do you believe that I am able to do this? . . . According to your faith let it be done to you.’ “ Matthew 9:28-29         NIV
     A praise to fill you: That’s What Faith Must Be  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 8:40-56; Matthew 9:18-26; Mark 5:21-43, TBC Book Two, Chapter 43
When Jesus and his disciples returned to the west side of the lake, a very large crowd of people gathered to welcome him. A man named Jairus, who was a leader in the local synagogue, stood among the crowd, waiting anxiously for his arrival. As Jesus stepped out of the boat, Jairus pushed his way through the crowd. When he reached Jesus, he fell at his feet. “Please, rabbi,” the man begged, “my only daughter is terribly ill. I’m afraid she’s dying.”

“Take me to your daughter,” Jesus said. The crowd was so large that it almost crushed them. One of the women in the crowd had come for healing, but now she was afraid she might lose her chance. For twelve years she had suffered with bleeding that would not stop. She had spent all her money seeing one doctor after another. Instead of helping, they only made it worse. She pressed closer toward Jesus. If I could just touch his clothes, . . . she thought. So she reached out and touched his robe.

Immediately the woman stopped bleeding. She knew she was healed. At that moment, Jesus stopped and said, “Who touched my clothes? . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 43, for the rest of the story.)

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Faith reaches out with open arms and grasps its reward.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?’ ” Jeremiah 32:27 NIV
     A praise to fill you: When You Believe  Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39, TBC Book Two, Chapter 42
On the east side of the lake, near the region of Gerasenes, roamed a wild man who brought fear to everyone he met. He lived in the caves in the hills, the same ones that were used as tombs for the dead. Day and night people heard him screaming at the top of his lungs.

People sometimes saw him cutting himself with sharp stones. He refused to wear clothes, and he lived like an animal. From time to time, the men in the community were able to catch him off guard and chain both his hands and his feet. But the man was so strong that he always broke the chains. No one could control him, for he was possessed by demons. Often the demons would lead him into places where he was alone—until today.

On this particular day, the wild man saw a number of boats pulling up on shore. There stepping out of the first boat was Jesus and his disciples. When the man saw Jesus, he raced toward him. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 42, for the rest of the story.)

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Fear is a weapon of the evil one, but faith clings to Jesus.
     A promise to cling to: “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” 1 John 5:4-5 NIV      
     A praise to fill you: How Can They Live Without Jesus?  Keith Green     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 8:18-22; Luke 8:22-25; 9:57-62, TBC Book Two, Chapter 41
When Jesus saw the great crowd around him and all those who were in the crowd, he turned to his disciples and said, “Let’s go down by the lake. I’ll teach from the boat.” In the crowd stood a teacher of the Law, and he had been moved by the words of Jesus. Seeing that they were about to leave, he pressed forward until he reached the rabbi and caught his attention.

“Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.”

Jesus looked at the man and said, “Foxes have dens in which to live, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place that he calls his home.” Jesus knew he was not called by God to be a disciple.

As Jesus continued walking, he turned to another man and said, “Come. Follow me.” For he did have other disciples besides the twelve.

But the man replied, “First let me go home. After my father has died, I will follow you.”

Jesus said to him, “Let those who are spiritually dead take care of those who are physically dead. As for you, go and proclaim God’s kingdom. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 41, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: God’s invitation is an open door . . . that closes the farther we walk away.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Little Pilgrim  Love Song     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Mark 4:26-34; Matthew13:44-52, TBC Book Two, Chapter 40
Jesus used many parables to show what the kingdom of heaven is like. . . . He caught everyone’s attention when he said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure that’s hidden in a field.”

In their mind’s eye, the disciples could imagine a field with a buried treasure hidden there. As Jesus continued, they listened intently.

“A man found the treasure in the field, and he was so happy he could hardly contain himself. Carefully, he buried it again where he found it. Then, full of joy, he went home, sold everything he had, and used the money to buy that field.

“In the same way, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant who went looking for valuable pearls. One day he found one of great value, the pearl of a lifetime. So he went home, gathered up everything he owned, and sold it all. Taking the money he had gained, he went back and gave it all so he could buy the pearl. He reasoned it was worth everything he had paid and more.  . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 40, for the rest of the story.)

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: ​"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose.”​—Jim Elliott, Through Gates of Splendor
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Make My Life a Prayer to You  Keith Green     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew13:24-30; 36-43, TBC Book Two, Chapter 39
Ever since the Pharisees had accused Jesus of working by the power of Satan, Jesus began a new way of teaching the people. He started using many parables. . . .

With a large crowd surrounding him, he said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But that night, while everyone slept, an enemy came and planted other seeds—some weeds. Later, when the wheat began to sprout, weeds also began to appear, and they grew up with the wheat in a thick mass.

“When the servants noticed the weeds, they went running to their master. ‘Sir,’ they called out, ‘we’ve just returned from the field where you had planted some wheat. The seed you used was good, wasn’t it?’

“Yes, the man nodded.

“ ‘Well then, where did all the weeds come from?’

“Upon hearing that, the master decided to look for himself.

“ ‘An enemy did this,’ he said.

“ ‘Do you want us to pull them up?’ the servants asked.

“ ‘No,’ the owner replied. ‘We can’t take that risk. . . .Here is what we will do: Let both grow together until the wheat is ready to harvest. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 39, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: In life’s drama of good versus evil, who is writing your script?
     A promise to cling to: “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.” 1 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV        
     A praise to fill you: Day by Day  Robin Lamont     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20, TBC Book Two, Chapter 38
One day when Jesus had been in a house teaching, the crowd had become so large that the house could not contain them. So the people to follow him toward the lake. Finding a boat to use, he sat down in it while the people stood on shore. Then he told them a story, a parable, about a man sowing seeds.

“The seeds were scattered and some fell along the hardened path. Then the birds came and ate them up. Other seed fell on rocky places where there wasn’t much soil. That seed grew quickly because the soil was so shallow. But when the plants rose above the ground, the sun scorched them, and they died because the roots could not grow. Other seed fell among the weeds, which choked out the plants. But the seed that fell on the good soil produced far more than what was sown.”

Then Jesus said, “Let the one who has ears to hear understand.”

Later, his disciples asked, “Why are you now speaking in parables?

You are concerned that they might not understand?” Jesus smiled. “That’s the whole point. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 38, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Every life is a garden. What’s growing in yours?
     A promise to cling to: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.” James 1:22-25  NIV
     A praise to fill you: Tend the Ground  Curtis Stephan     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 12:15-45; Luke 11:14-28; Mark 3:20-30
TBC Book Two, Chapter 37
The Pharisees decided there was only one way to stop this man Jesus—kill him. Jesus knew what they were planning. So he withdrew from the village of Nain. Many followed him, and he continued to heal those who were sick. But he warned them not to tell anyone about it. Yet some of the healings were so powerful that the people couldn’t stop talking about it—like the man who was demon-possessed.

This particular man was both blind and mute. But Jesus cast out the evil spirits that had enslaved him. Now the man could talk, and he could see. The people were so amazed that they said to one another: “Could this man be the Son of David, the Messiah?”

Some turned to the Pharisees to seek their opinion. “If he’s not the Son of David,” they asked, “how could he have such great power?”

“I’ll tell you how,” one Pharisee said. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 37 , for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: It doesn’t take a mind-reader to recognize motives—watch what they do. Each life bears witness.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. . . A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. . . . Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.’ “ Matthew 7:15-16, 18, 20 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows   Petra     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Matthew 12:1-14; Mark 2:23-28; Luke 6:1-11; 8:1-3, TBC Book Two, Chapter 36
By now it seemed that everyone was talking about Jesus, the rabbi who not only healed the sick but had even raised the dead. Not everyone believed the stories they were hearing. Many of the religious leaders, the Pharisees, were skeptical. Jesus had indeed gained a great following. So they looked for ways to criticize him. Perhaps then the crowds would stop following him.

On this Sabbath, some Pharisees saw Jesus and his disciples walking through the corn fields. His disciples were hungry and began picking ears of corn. They rubbed them in their hands so they could eat the kernels.

“Look!” someone shouted. “Your disciples are breaking the Sabbath.”

Working on the Sabbath was forbidden by the laws God had given to Moses. But Jesus was not troubled by their actions. Instead, said to the Pharisees, “Haven’t you read what David did when he was hungry? . . . 

When Jesus and his disciples left the field, they walked to the synagogue and saw a man whose hand was shriveled and paralyzed.

Reasoning that healing on the Sabbath was the same as working,  the Pharisees thought, Here is our chance to expose him. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 36, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Mercy triumphs over judgment. So offer lovingkindness every day . . . and twice on Sunday!
     A promise to cling to: “Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:12-13 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Mercy Came Running  Phillips, Craig, and Dean     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Luke 7:1-17; Matthew 8:5-13, TBC Book Two, Chapter 35
After teaching a great number of people from the hillside, Jesus came down from that area and entered the town of Capernaum. He had barely arrived when some elders approached him with an unusual request.

“Rabbi,” the spokesman began, “there is a centurion here who loves our people. He even built for us a synagogue. His most trusted servant is terribly ill and will likely die. The centurion asked us to have you heal his servant. He deserves to be helped. Will you come?”

Immediately, Jesus turned and walked with the elders toward the centurion’s home. When they were close enough to see the house, several of the centurion’s friends came running out to meet Jesus.

“We have a message from the centurion. He says, ‘Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof, so do not trouble yourself with that. I, too, am a man under authority. When I give an order, the people obey. So please, just speak the word, and my servant will be healed.’ ”

When Jesus heard the message, he was amazed. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 35, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Faith isn’t a birthright. It’s a heartfelt confidence that surpasses heritage, culture, religion, and privilege. And God loves it.
     A promise to cling to: ”And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:6 NIV            
     A praise to fill you: Who Am I?  Casting Crowns     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 7:1-29; Luke 6:37-49; 11:9-13, TBC Book Two, Chapter 34
Large crowds continued to follow Jesus, and they strained to hear his every word. He was nothing like the other rabbis. To hear him teach was like hearing God’s word for the first time. But Jesus wanted more than good listeners.

“Don’t look at what’s wrong with other people,” Jesus said. “If you are harsh in what you think of others, you will be judged just as harshly. Who gives you the right to point out someone’s faults when you have even more of your own? It’s like trying to pull a sliver out of someone’s eye when you have a log in yours.

“So don’t be a hypocrite—look at your own behavior. Correct yourself first. Then you can see clearly whether someone else needs to be corrected. But don’t waste your time trying to correct someone who doesn’t care about what’s right. That’s like throwing pearls to pigs.”

Jesus urged them to trust their heavenly Father. “Ask, and he will give to you. Seek him, and you will find him. Knock, and he will open the door. . . . 

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 34, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The greatest deception in the world is self-deceit—the magic mirror that shows only you what you what you want to see.
     A promise to cling to: “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth. . . .” 2 Timothy 4:3-4 NIV
     A praise to fill you:  We All Need Jesus   Danny Gokey, Koryn Hawthorne                  [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 6:1-34; Luke 11:34-36; 12:22-34
TBC Book Two, Chapter 33
Jesus shook his head at what he was seeing: The people who were supposed to be spiritual leaders acted like they were doing good things, but they did them for the wrong reasons. This bothered him so much that he gathered his disciples so he could talk to them.

“When you do a good deed or a spiritual practice,” Jesus said, “don’t do it so others will think well of you. For example, when you give to the needy, do it secretly. . . .

Then Jesus spoke about the things that trap people’s souls: “Don’t spend your life trying to store up treasures on earth, things that will perish, things that can be stolen. Instead, store up treasures in heaven, things that won’t perish and can never be stolen. Remember, where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. . . .

Your heavenly father knows your needs. Seek first his kingdom. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 33, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Greatness is concerned with giving, not getting, pleasing God, not exalting self. Bottom line: No worries.
     A promise to cling to: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Lay Your Burden Down  Chuck Girard     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 5:21-48, TBC Book Two, Chapter 32
​People were stunned by the harsh statement Jesus had made about the Pharisees and religious teachers. He knew the Pharisees and teachers of the Law had twisted God’s commandments. So he gave examples to show how these teachers had missed God’s point.

“You have heard that the rabbis of long ago said, ‘Do not murder, because God will judge those who murder.’ But I say to you, even just being angry with someone will bring judgment. So, whenever you are about to make a sacrifice, and you know someone has something against you, go to that person first. Make peace with that person. Then you can seek God’s mercy.

“You have also heard ‘Do not commit adultery.’ But if you look at a woman lustfully, you have already committed adultery in your heart.

“If it’s your eye that’s causing you to sin, cut it out and throw it away. And if your hand leads you into sin, cut it off. It would be better to lose a part of your body than to suffer punishment in hell.”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 32, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Mercy is a gentle stream, flowing from a peaceful heart. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.”
     A promise to cling to: “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” James 3:13 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Let Mercy Lead  Rich Mullins     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 5:1-20; 6:22,23; Luke 11:33-36, TBC Book Two, Chapter 31
By now large crowds were again following Jesus. There was only one way to address this massive crowd and be heard by all. Not far from Capernaum, on the north side of the Sea of Galilee, was a large sloping hill. Jesus began climbing, and when he reached just the right place, he turned and sat down to teach.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,” he cried, “for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Jesus was teaching them how to be at peace with themselves, with others, and with God. The proud and the arrogant would never know the secret to God’s peace. It is something God reveals to those who are broken in spirit, who realize they are nothing without God. 

“Blessed are the gentle, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”
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“Blessed are the merciful, for they too will receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 31, for the rest of the story.)

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: “Blessed are the peace makers.” May the peace of God rule in our heart, in our mind, in our soul, and in our spirit. Amen.
     A promise to cling to: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:17-18 NIV
     A praise to fill you: These Things I have Spoken Unto You  Maranatha Music     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Luke 11:1-4; Matt.6:9-15, TBC Book Two, Chapter 30
Jesus and his twelve disciples began to travel more often, and they were always together. This meant leaving their homes and loved ones. After making arrangements so that their families were cared for, the men were prepared to travel wherever Jesus might lead them.

Often Jesus would slip away so he could be alone and pray to the Father. One day, after Jesus had returned from his time of prayer, one of his disciples said, “Lord, why don’t you teach us to pray, just as John the Baptist taught his disciples?”

Jesus was pleased to hear this request. He knew he could have taught them long ago. But it was far better for them to think of this on their own, for them to come to him with this desire.

“When you pray,” Jesus said, “don’t try to draw attention to yourself. That’s what the hypocrites do. . . . But when you pray, go into a room by yourself and shut the door behind you. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And don’t use a lot of words, like the pagans do. The Father knows your needs even before you ask him.

“Now, then, here is how you should pray. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 30, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Prayer’s climax and cautionary finale: “Forgive others as . . .” and rescue me from “the big one”—the evil one’s siren call.
     A promise to cling to: “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:30-32 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Lord’s Prayer  by Erich Sylvester, Xavier Student Mass, Bellarmine    [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Mark 2:18-22; Matthew 9:14-17; Luke 6:12-16; Mark 3:13-19
TBC Book Two, Chapter 29
A lot of people kept a watchful eye on Jesus, including the disciples of John, the Baptist. John was still in prison, and his disciples determined they would continue the practice that John had taught them, to fast and pray. As rumors spread about the dinner parties that Jesus attended, it raised some doubts among John’s disciples. So one day they decided to confront Jesus. . . .

After questioning him and hearing his reply, they did not know what to say. Their hunch was right—Jesus’ disciples did not fast. And Jesus seemed not the least bit concerned. What did he mean about pouring new wine into old wineskins? They would have to give that some thought. . . .

One night, when Jesus was traveling with his disciples, he slipped off by himself and began to hike up a mountainside. It was not unusual for him to seek secluded places in peaceful solitude, where he would pray. 

He would often spend hours praying. But on this evening, Jesus spent the whole night in prayer. The number of his disciples was growing. He must decide which ones to select for a special task. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 29, for the rest of the story.)​​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: If the Son of God spent time praying before making significant decisions, how much more should we?
     A promise to cling to: “Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:3-6 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Don’t Stop Praying  Matthew West     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 16:19-31, TBC Book Two, Chapter 28
Have you ever wondered what happens to a person after he dies? One day Jesus told a story that showed what happened to two very different men. Unlike all his other parables, this one mentions a character by name.

“There was a rich man,” Jesus began, “and he lived so luxuriously that every day he would wear nothing but the finest clothes, expensive garments of purple and fine linen. Knowing what a wealthy man he was, some people laid a beggar named Lazarus at the man’s gate.

“The beggar’s body was covered with open sores. The only ones who cared, however, were the stray dogs who would come and lick his wounds. Every day Lazarus hoped that the rich man would have mercy. He would have been glad to have even the crumbs that fell from the man’s table. Yet no one gave him even a single crumb.

“Finally, Lazarus died, and no one took much notice. But immediately the angels came, and they carried his spirit to paradise. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 28, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The greatest piece of advice on wealth management: Payday’s comin’. . . .
     A promise to cling to: “Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. . . .] You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.” James 5:1-6 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Gotta Serve Somebody  Bob Dylan     [Can skip ad after first 3 seconds]

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Luke 16:1-15, TBC Book Two, Chapter 27
Jesus told many captivating stories, especially to his disciples, but quite often, those who did not follow Jesus would also listen. One day he told them a parable about a shrewd manager. Like all parables, the story would hinge on a comparison. It would show people how two things differed. Every time Jesus told a parable, he was trying to make a point. And if you understood that point, then you understood how God views certain matters.

With every eye upon him, Jesus began, “There was once a rich man who heard that his manager was wasting his possessions. So he sent for him.

“Then he said to him, ‘What’s this I’ve heard about you squandering what I own? If what I hear is true, you’re not fit to be a manager. Now leave, and don’t return unless you can show me what you have done.’

“The manager thought to himself, What will I do? When I lose my job as manager, I can’t work for him as a laborer. I’m not strong enough even to dig. I’ll be left with nothing, and I can’t bring myself to beg. . . . I know what I’ll do, he thought. I’ll work out some deals with the people who borrowed from my master. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 27, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Wise investors play the long game—taking stock of eternal value.
     A promise to cling to: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:10-21 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Seize the Day  Carolyn Arends     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 15:11-32, TBC Book Two, Chapter 26
While more of Levi’s guests drew near to hear Jesus, the Pharisees stood apart, as if they did not care. “Let me tell you about a man who had two very different sons,” Jesus began.

“One day the younger son came to his father and asked for his share of their property. So the father divided his wealth and gave him his share. Right away the son left and traveled to a distant country, where he squandered all his money, entertaining himself with wild living.

“Then a famine took hold of that country. Everyone suffered, especially the poor. The young man was so desperate that he was willing to do anything just to survive. So he offered to work for a man, hoping the man would feed him. But the man sent him to feed his pigs.

“Now even though a Jew would never do such a detestable thing, he did it. And he was so hungry that he stared at the pigs’ pods, thinking, How I would love to eat even the pigs’ food. . . .

“As he stared at the pig slop, his stomach growled, and he thought, “I know what I can do. . . . 

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 26, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The good news about hitting rock-bottom is having only one way out . . . Look up!
     A promise to cling to: “ For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 NIV            
     A praise to fill you: Verge of a Miracle   Rich Mullins  [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 9:9-13; Mark 2:13-17; Luke 5:27-32; 15:1-10, TBC Book Two, Chapter 25
People were still talking about the miracle in Capernaum, wondering what amazing thing Jesus would do next. No house could contain the crowds that now followed him. So he walked near the lake and stood on the shore’s edge. After he finished teaching, he walked a bit farther, until he came to a tax collector’s booth. Then he did something that surprised everyone.

Jesus turned to the tax collector and said, “Why don’t you come with us? Come, follow me.”

Even his disciples stared in amazement. But the man, whose name was Levi, stood up immediately. How did this man, Jesus, know what he was thinking, what he was feeling?

“I’d like that,” he said. And before they knew it, they were all following the tax collector to his house. Levi gave a dinner party in honor of Jesus, and he invited all his friends and relatives. After a while, a few of the disciples stepped outside, feeling a bit uncomfortable. It wasn’t long before some Pharisees walked up to them and posed a question. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 25, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: A judgmental spirit stokes hardheartedness—in others and in us. But love sets people free.
     A promise to cling to: “You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. . . . Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” Romans 2:1,4 NIV              
     A praise to fill you: Your Kindness   Leslie Phillips   [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 14:1-24; Matthew 22:1-14, TBC Book Two, Chapter 24
The moment Jesus walked into the house, he realized he was being carefully watched. One of the most well-known Pharisees in the community had invited a number of people for dinner on the Sabbath. Before they had a chance to sit down, in walked a man whose arms and legs were terribly swollen by a disease. 

Jesus asked the religious leaders, “Does God’s law permit healing on the Sabbath?” No one said a word. So Jesus reached out his hand and healed the man.

After the man left, the guests sat down. Jesus noticed how quickly they took the center spots. So he said, “When you are invited to a wedding feast, never take the place of honor. . . . Then he told them a parable. . . . 

“The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet and invited a great many guests. But when he sent his servants out with the invitations, one by one the guests refused to come. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 24, for the rest of the story.)

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: God blesses those who have learned the art of blessing others—the art of the heart.
     A promise to cling to: “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
          “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ “ Matthew 25:37-40 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Least of These  Karl Kohlhase     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Luke 5:12-26; Mark 1:40-45; 2:1-12; Matthew 8:2-4; 9:1-8
TBC Book Two, Chapter 23
Jesus traveled from town to town and people crowded around him—until one day. A man came along who was covered from head to foot with a skin disease. When the people saw him, they backed away. Though people knew his disease was not contagious, they feared to touch him.

With his head bent down, the man dropped to his knees. “Lord,” he said, “if you are willing to do it, I know you can make me clean.”

Jesus looked at the man. Filled with compassion, he bent down, put his hand on the man’s shoulder, and said, “I am willing. Be clean!”

Immediately, the man’s skin began to change. . . .

One group was carrying a paralyzed man. If only they could get him inside the house where Jesus was! But they weren’t even close to the door. Then one of the men whispered, “I have an idea. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 23, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Faith, hope, and love—the most powerful cord.
     A promise to cling to: “A cord of three strands is not [easily] broken. Ecclesiastes 3:12 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Power of Your Love  Maranatha Music      [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 4:14-30, TBC Book Two, Chapter 22
The word about Jesus began to spread: “The rabbi from Nazareth is healing everyone who comes to him. Even the demons obey him!”

Jesus made his way throughout Galilee until he came to Nazareth, the town where he grew up. On the Sabbath he entered their synagogue, and when it was time for the Scriptures, he stood up to read.

When Jesus was handed the scroll, he unrolled it slowly and paused,  staring at the words before him from Isaiah. Then he looked at the people and quoted, “ ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, for he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and sight for the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.’ ”

Then he rolled up the scroll, and handed it back, and quietly sat down. Everyone stared, waiting for him to speak.

“Today,” he said, “this Scripture is fulfilled.” And he began to teach them.

As he spoke, they were amazed. But others were offended. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 22, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: God does not call us to “blind faith”—he calls us to open the eyes of our heart so we can recognize him in our midst.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.’ And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.” Matthew 13:57-58 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Open the Eyes of My Heart   Michael W. Smith     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 4:31-44; Matthew 8:14-17; Mark 1:29-39, TBC Book Two, Chapter 21
The Galilean fishermen were not the only ones amazed by Jesus’ power. One Sabbath they went with him to the synagogue in Capernaum. The people there were also amazed by what they were seeing and hearing.

When Jesus rose to speak, his teaching was nothing like that of the other rabbis. They would quote other teachers to explain the Scriptures. But Jesus explained them himself, and his message was powerful and compelling. People were hanging onto his every word.

Suddenly, a man stood up and shouted out, “Ha! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us?

The people were shocked at his outburst. What did he mean? Who was the “us” he was talking about?

“I know who you are!” he screamed. “You are the Holy One of God!”

“Be quiet!” Jesus ordered. “Come out of him!”

As soon as Jesus said, “Come out of him,” the people realized what was happening. The man was possessed by an evil spirit. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 21, for the rest of the story.)​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: At the heart of good versus evil are spiritual forces, made visible by words and deeds.
     A promise to cling to: “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. . . . As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” James 2:18-19,24 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Voice of Truth  Casting Crowns       [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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