John 18:28-38; Luke 23:1-6; Matthew 27:11-14; Mark 15:1-5
TBC Book Two, Chapter 104
Early Friday morning, a large procession of Jewish men made their way to the Roman palace: the leaders from their ruling council, the temple guards, and the prisoner they had brought for judgment—Jesus of Nazareth.

They requested to see Pilate but refused to enter the palace. For if they entered the home of a Gentile, they would be considered “unclean” by Jewish standards, and this would render them unable to participate in the rest of the Passover.

When the Roman guard returned, Pilate was with him. “What do you want?” he asked.

“We want you to take this man and judge him according to Roman law.”

“Why?” Pilate asked. “What charges are you bringing against him?”

One of their leaders quickly spoke up. “We have met as a council and found him guilty of wrongdoing. Otherwise we would not have brought him to you.”

“So take him away,” Pilate said, “and judge him by your own law.”

“We can’t,” the leader replied. “Roman law does not allow us to execute anyone.”

So that’s it, Pilate thought. They want him killed. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 104, for the rest of the story.)​
​​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Cynical leaders scoff at “truth,” evil leaders distort it, but Christ alone can say, “I am the truth—the light of every human.”
     A promise to cling to: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. . . . Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:14,16-17 NIV
     A praise to fill you: You Are God Alone  Phillips, Craig, and Dean     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 22:63-65; Matthew 27:1-10; Acts 1:18,19; Zechariah 11:12,13
TBC Book Two, Chapter 103
Dawn had barely broken when the Sanhedrin reached their verdict—Jesus of Nazareth must die. They found him guilty of blasphemy, for claiming to be the Son of God. According to their Law, given by Moses, it was a terrible offense to claim God’s majesty and authority. The Law required he be stoned to death. But would their governor, Pontius Pilate, agree he should die? With Judea now governed by Rome, only a Roman official could sentence a person to death. As the soldiers led Jesus out of the room, the counsel began planning how to persuade Pilate.

Meanwhile, the temple guards did some planning of their own. They knew the verdict. So he claimed to be the Son of God, did he? One of the soldiers put a blindfold over Jesus’ eyes. Then, one at a time, they took turns beating him.

“Let’s hear you prophecy!” they taunted. “Which of us hit you?”

A few moments later, another guard appeared and shouted, “That’s enough. Take off that blindfold. The council is ready. . . .” 

Some chief priests and elders were now in the temple, discussing what they would say to Pilate. They were about to leave, when suddenly a man came rushing into the room.

“Wait!” the man yelled. It was Judas Iscariot. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 103, for the rest of the story.)
​​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Embracing evil impulses never ends well—the tempter deals a tragic hand to his unsuspecting pawns.
     A promise to cling to: “While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name you gave me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled.” John 17:12 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Create in Me a Clean Heart  Eric and Tanja Lagerström               [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Mark 14:55-64; Matthew 26:59-66; Luke 22:66-71, TBC Book Two, Chapter 102
While darkness covered the face of Jerusalem, messengers were sent throughout the city, bearing an important secret message for every member of the Jewish ruling council. “Come at once to the home of Caiaphas. The Sanhedrin must decide the fate of Jesus of Nazareth, who was arrested during the night.”

There were 70 members, besides the high priest who ruled over them, and they all quickly made their way to his house. Some were already there, those who had witnessed the questioning that took place earlier at the home of Annas.

By dawn, Jesus was led away from Annas and taken directly to Caiaphas, who presided over the Sanhedrin as the official high priest. With his hands bound, Jesus watched as one man after another entered the home of Caiaphas. Most were Sadducees who served as chief priests. The rest were Pharisees. One of them made eye contact with Jesus. It was Nicodemus. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 102, for the rest of the story.)
​​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Evil lurks in the darkness of night and disguises itself as truth by day, led by corrupt authorities—inspired by the evil one.
     A promise to cling to: “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.”—Jesus  John 3:19-20 NIV              
     A praise to fill you: ​The Coloring Song  Petra     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 18:12-27; Luke 22:54-62; Matthew 26:69-75; Mark 14:66-72
TBC Book Two, Chapter 101
Far away from the group, where Jesus would not see him, Judas watched as soldiers from the temple guard tied the hands of Jesus. His disciples had all fled in different directions. The commander knew there were too many of them to pursue in the dark. And after all, his orders were only to arrest Jesus. The soldiers, accompanied by some elders and assistants of the high priest, led Jesus back across the Kidron Valley toward Jerusalem.

Judas was not the only one interested in watching what would happen. Peter and John had found each other and hidden themselves just outside the olive grove. As the group left the garden, they followed them from a distance, all the way into the city.

“It looks like they are taking him to the home of Annas, the high priest,” John whispered. “Listen, I’ve been there before, and the servants know me. If they let me in, I’ll come back for you. Just stay here and wait for me, all right? . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 101, for the rest of the story.)
​​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Pray for the ability to remain faithful: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil”—the BIG one, denying Jesus.
     A promise to cling to: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. . . .” Mattthew 26:41 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Lay Your Burden Down  Chuck Girard     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 26:47-56; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-11; Mark 14:43-52
TBC Book Two, Chapter 100
Peter, James, and John were all still groggy and half asleep, when they heard Jesus say to them, “Here comes my betrayer.” Then into the garden of Gethsemane walked Judas Iscariot.

When Judas saw Jesus standing there, he smiled as he walked toward him. At first it looked like Judas was alone. Then the disciples saw torchlights a short distance beyond him. Peter reached for his sword and stood up.

“Greetings, Rabbi!” Judas said. Then he reached out his arms and leaned forward to give him a brotherly kiss. But as he did so, Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?”

Not far behind Judas was a group of soldiers—temple guards—and other officials sent by the high priests. Jesus was right. Judas had told them to capture the one who he would kiss.

Jesus looked at Judas and said, “Do what you came for, friend.”

The moment Judas kissed Jesus, a large group of men entered the garden, all of them armed with clubs and swords. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 100, for the rest of the story.)
​​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The deepest cut is betrayal by a loved one. If it happened to Jesus . . . it will happen to us. Trust in the Lord—not in weapons.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘Put your sword back in its place,’ Jesus said to him, ‘for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.’ ” Matthew 26:52 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Why?  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 26:36-46; Luke 22:39-46; Mark 14:32-42; John 18:1
TBC Book Two, Chapter 99
​The disciples wondered what lay ahead as they followed Jesus out of Jerusalem. They walked across the Kidron Valley toward the Mount of Olives. The disciples knew where he was heading—to an olive grove called Gethsemane. Often they had gone there. But now, as they entered the garden, Jesus told them to sit down and wait for him.

“I’m going over there to pray,” he said. Then he motioned to Peter, James, and John. “Come with me,” he whispered.

As soon as they left the group, it became obvious to them that Jesus was troubled. He stopped and put his head into his hands.

“What is it?” they asked. “What’s wrong?”

Jesus groaned so deeply that he sounded like a man in agony.

“I feel terribly overwhelmed,” he said. “My soul is filled with so much sorrow. . . . It feels like the pains of death. Stay with me. Stay close by and watch while I pray.”

Jesus walked a short distance beyond them. Then he dropped to his knees and fell forward with his face to the ground. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 99, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Not every prayer request is granted a “Yes,” even for the Son of God. Sometimes we are called to drink the cup . . . of suffering.
     A promise to cling to: “He fell with his face to the ground and prayed, ‘My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will. . . . He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.’ . . . He left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.” Matthew 26:39,42,44 NIV       
     A praise to fill you: Blessings  Laura Story     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 17:1-26, TBC Book Two, Chapter 98
A hush fell over the room. Jesus raised his hands and looked up, as if gazing at something far away. “Father,” he prayed, “the time has come. Glorify your Son that I in turn may bring glory to you. You have given me the authority over all people so that I might give eternal life to those whom you have chosen to give me. The eternal life I speak of is this—that those whom you have given me may know you, the one and only true God, and Jesus the Messiah, the one whom you have sent.

“I have brought you glory while here on this earth by completing all that you told me to do. And now, Father, I ask that you once again give me the glory I had when I was with you, the glory I had before the world was even formed.

“Father, I have shown my disciples what you are like and taught them what is important to you. You have chosen them from out of this world and given them to me, and they have obeyed you. . . .

“I am about to leave this world to go back to you. . . . My prayer is not that you will take them out of the world; rather, I pray that you will protect them from the evil one. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 98, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Jesus also prayed specifically for us—those who would believe their message.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message. . . . My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.” John 17:20,16 NIV
     A praise to fill you: I Will Be Here  Steven Curtis Chapman     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 16:1-33, TBC Book Two, Chapter 97
With a look of concern, the disciples waited for Jesus to continue. “I am telling you these things before they happen,” Jesus said, “so that when the time comes, you will not fall away and lose your faith. 

“A time is coming when you will be turned away from the synagogues. People will think that they are serving God by killing you. The reason they will do these things is because they have not known the Father, nor have they known me.

“I did not tell you this until now because I have been with you. But now that I am going away, I want you to realize this so you can be prepared for it. When these things happen, I want you to remember that I told you ahead of time. So do not let these things shake your faith.

“Now I am returning to the One who sent me. . . . For if I did not go, the Helper would not come to you. But since I am going, I will send Him to you. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 97, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: A silver lining: Jesus will send the Holy Spirit to convince people of their sin, enable belief, and prove Satan is defeated.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘Very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin, because people do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.’ ” John 16:7-11 NIV
     A praise to fill you: These Things I Have Spoken Unto You   Maranatha Singers     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 15:1-27, TBC Book Two, Chapter 96
God had often described Israel as a vine, and Jesus had that image in mind as he taught his disciples one last time. “I am the true vine,” he said, “and my Father is the one who cares for the vine. Every branch from my vine that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut off. And every branch that is fruitful will be pruned so it can bear even more fruit. No branch can bear fruit unless it draws nourishment from the vine. So stay connected with me.

“I am the vine; you are my branches. If a person stays connected with me, that person will bear a great deal of fruit. Apart from me, you cannot bear any fruit. . . . But if you stay connected to me and remain obedient to my teachings, you can ask for anything, and my Father will give it to you.

“Just as the Father has loved me, so also have I loved you. If you obey my commands, you will continue to receive my love, just as I have obeyed my Father and continued to receive his love. There is joy that comes with knowing that you are pleasing the Father and that he loves you. . . . 

“To know that joy, you must obey my commands, and they can be summed up in this one command. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 96, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: A relationship with God connects us to a living vine—not to fire insurance. It demands growth, pruning . . . and bearing fruit.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’ ” John 15:5          NIV
     A praise to fill you: First Love  Petra     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 14:1-31, TBC Book Two, Chapter 95
All of the disciples, that is, all except Judas, were sitting with Jesus around the table, and not one of them said a word. Jesus knew what they were thinking. “Do not be downhearted,” he said. “Trust the Father; trust also in me.

“Let me tell you about my Father’s house. It is a huge mansion filled with many rooms. That is where I am going, so that I can prepare a place for you. And you know that if I’m going there to prepare a place for you, then surely I will come back so I can take you there with me. You already know the way to the place where I am going.”

“But Lord,” Thomas protested, “we don’t even know where you are going. So how can we know the way to get there?”

Jesus replied, “I am the way. I am also the truth and the life. The only way a person can come to the Father is through me. Anyone who really knows me would know the Father as well. From now on, all of you do know him, and you have seen him.”

Philip sighed. “Lord,” he said, “if only you would show us the Father, that would be enough to satisfy us.”

Now Jesus was the one who looked frustrated. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 95, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

 Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Jesus is our Bridge to the Father. The Holy Spirit walks with us on that bridge, speaking peace, shedding light.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.’ ” John 14:16-17 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Friends   Michael W. Smith  [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Mark 14:27-31; Matthew 26:31-35; Luke 22:31-38; John 13:31-38
TBC Book Two, Chapter 94
As soon as Judas left, Jesus turned toward the eleven disciples who were seated with him. “The Son of Man is about to be glorified,” he said. “And God will be glorified through him.” The disciples looked puzzled. What does he mean by that?

“This very night,” Jesus said, “you will all fall away from me. As the prophet has written: ‘The shepherd will be struck and the sheep scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go to Galilee, and there you will meet me.”

The disciples were disturbed to hear him say this. They had been together for three years now, and they had grown closer than brothers. It was hard to hear that one of them would betray him but even harder to hear that they would all run away and disown him.

Peter refused to accept it. Maybe they would leave, but not he. Peter stood up, stepped near Jesus, and said, “Even if they all leave you, Lord, I will never abandon you.”

“Simon, Simon,” Jesus said, “Satan has demanded permission from God to sift you like wheat. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 94, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: What we perceive is only half the picture. The other half is a spiritual drama, and we are supplying the script—edit your lines.
     A promise to cling to: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” 1 Peter 5:8-9 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Be Thou My Vision  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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John 13:21-30; Mark 14:17-26; Matthew 26:20-30; Luke 22:14-23
TBC Book Two, Chapter 93
Evening dawned, and the disciples were all enjoying the Passover meal, until they noticed that Jesus had become very quiet; he looked troubled about something. They wondered what was wrong, but nobody said a word. Finally, Jesus spoke. “I tell you the truth,” he said, “one of you is going to betray me.”

The disciples were shocked. Yet they knew Jesus could discern things before they happened. It grieved them to think that one of them might betray him.

At first the disciples just looked at one another. Each one was wondering, Who? Which one of us? Each one wanted the reassurance of knowing that he was not the one who would do such a thing. So one after another, each of them whispered, “Surely not I, Lord?”

Jesus made no reply. But after a few moments, he said, “One of you who is eating with me will surely betray me.”

The disciples grew quiet, still wondering who among them would betray him. Peter motioned to John, who was sitting next to Jesus. After he got John’s attention, Peter nodded toward Jesus and silently whispered, “Ask him who. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 93, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

     A proverb to guide you: Bitterness, resentment, greed, and deception build a harbor that invites evil spirits to enter and drop anchor. Take heed.
     A promise to cling to: “The chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. They were delighted and agreed to give him money. He consented and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.” Luke 22:2-6 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Come to the Table  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Luke 22:7-13; John 13:1-17; Matthew 26:17-19; Mark 14:12-16
TBC Book Two, Chapter 92
Of all the days Jesus spent with his disciples, this was the one he would treasure the most. It was now Passover, the most important and most sacred of all Jewish festivals. Jesus called Peter and John and said to them, “I want you to go into the city now to make our preparations to celebrate the Passover.”

Of course, thousands of others would be making similar arrangements, so Peter asked him, “What place did you have in mind? Where should we go?”

“When you enter the city,” Jesus said, “a man carrying a water jar will be there to meet you. Go with him, and when he comes to his master’s house, follow him inside. Speak to the owner of the house and tell him, ‘The Teacher has sent this message: “Where is the guest room? I wish to eat the Passover meal there with my disciples.” ’ He will show you a large room upstairs, one that is already furnished. Make preparations for us in that room. . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 92, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

     A proverb to guide you: Greatness is not a skillset—it’s the ability to lead by example, guided by a servant’s heart.
     A promise to cling to: “Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’ ” Matthew 20:25-28 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Basin and the Towel  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Day 270: John 12:1-11; Matthew 26:6-16; Mark 14:1-10; Luke 22:1-6
TBC Book Two, Chapter 91
With Passover only two days away, the chief priests and the religious teachers who plotted against Jesus knew that they had run out of time. Thousands of people were pouring into Jerusalem for the feast. If Jesus were arrested now, followers of his from all over would be here to defend him. The people might start a riot. So the religious leaders decided they should wait until after Passover.

“Where is he staying in the evenings?” one of them asked.

“In Bethany,” another replied.

On this particular evening, Jesus dined as the honored guest at the home of Lazarus. While Martha served the meal, Mary served Jesus in another way. She took a pint of perfumed oil, the kind they used to pour over a person’s head. Bending down on her knees, she poured the oil over Jesus’ feet—something only a hired servant would do. . . .

As the perfumed scent filled the air, it was obvious to everyone what kind of oil Mary had used—pure nard, and it was very expensive. Seeing how Mary had used this costly oil, one of the disciples frowned. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 91, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Not all our ideas are inspired by God, and a wounded spirit makes fertile soil for the enemy’s seeds . . .
     A promise to cling to: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. . . .” 1 John 4:1 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Gotta Serve Somebody  Bob Dylan     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 25:31-46, TBC Book Two, Chapter 90
The stories Jesus had told to his disciples raised many questions. They knew the Son’s coming would be obvious to everyone. And they knew that they would suffer tremendous persecution before that time. But they also knew that in the end, he would gather all his followers, the elect, to join him. This would happen just before God’s wrath would be poured out on the world. But what would happen after this judgment?

“When the Son of Man comes in his heavenly glory,” Jesus said, “all the angels will be with him, and he will sit on his throne as King. All the people who are left on earth will be gathered, and they will appear before him. He will separate those people into two groups, the same way a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. One group, the ‘sheep,’ will be placed to the right side of his throne. The others, the ‘goats,’ will be placed on his left. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 90, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Christianity is not cross necklaces, God talk, or spiritual emojis: Deeds reveal our identity—and our destination.
     A promise to cling to: “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” Matthew 10:40-42 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Least of These  Karl Kohlhase     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 25:1-13, TBC Book Two, Chapter 89
It was hard for the disciples to imagine what Jesus was talking about. He kept mentioning “the coming of the Son of Man,” the day when he would return to this earth. Over and over, he said, “Make sure you are ready for that day.”

Jesus knew what they were thinking. They were wondering how they could be ready. So he told them another story, a parable, and it was filled with symbolic meaning.

“The kingdom of heaven,” he said, “is like ten bridesmaids. As night approached, they all took torches so they could meet the bride-groom. They were not sure how long they would have to wait.

“Five of them were wise, for they thought to themselves, It might be a long time before he comes. I better take some oil so my flame won’t burn out. 

“The other five, however, foolishly gave no thought to taking any oil. They assumed that their torches would stay lit.

“As it turned out, the bridegroom took a long time in coming. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 89, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: So let us consider those things that feed the Spirit within us . . .
     A promise to cling to: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. . . .” Ephesians 5:18-19 NIV           
     A praise to fill you: More Power to Ya  Petra     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 24:36-51; Luke 17:26-37; 12:35-48; 18:1-8
TBC Book Two, Chapter 88
Two thousand years have passed since Jesus revealed what would happen to the temple and to his disciples. About 40 years after Jesus told them these things, Jerusalem was indeed destroyed by the Romans, and so was the temple. It was a dreadful time for the Jews, unlike any other.

But when Jesus had spoken to his disciples to prepare them for the things that would happen, he was also referring to the distant future. And he wasn’t through yet. To understand what Jesus was about to tell them now, the disciples would have to remember that Jesus would not be with them much longer. He would soon leave to go to the Father. Before leaving them, he wanted them to know that one day he would return to this world.

“No one knows what day the Son of Man will come,” Jesus said, “not even the angels, nor the Son himself. Only the Father knows. But I can tell you what the world will be like then. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 88, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Don’t let your “house”—your spiritual personhood—be broken into. Guard your mind, soul, and spirit . . . and keep praying.
     A promise to cling to: “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:14-17 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Don’t Let Your Heart Be Hardened  Petra     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 24:1-35; Mark 13:1-31; Luke 21:5-36, TBC Book Two, Chapter 87
Jesus finished teaching then left the temple courtyard, with his disciples running to catch up with him. As they passed the buildings on the temple grounds, one of the disciples exclaimed, “Teacher, look! Those stones are so massive. What magnificent buildings!”

Jesus turned and looked. Then he pointed toward the buildings and said, “See all these great buildings? A time is coming when not one of those stones will be left on another.” The disciples were shocked to hear him say that.

When they reached the Mount of Olives, overlooking Jerusalem, Jesus stopped to rest. Peter, James, John, and Andrew drew near him. They wanted to know more about the temple and what would happen in the future.

“Let no one deceive you,” Jesus said. “Many will come and claim to be me, saying, ‘The end is near.’ Do not believe them. Before the end comes, nations will face wars and revolutions, earthquakes and famines. But that is just the beginning, like early labor pains in childbirth. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 87, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

 Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: “It will be a time unlike any the world has ever seen . . . Do not be caught off guard, do not be deceived. Pray to keep faith.” —Jesus
     A promise to cling to: “In the latter part of their reign, when rebels have become completely wicked, a fierce-looking king, a master of intrigue, will arise. He will become very strong, but not by his own power. He will cause astounding devastation and will succeed in whatever he does. He will destroy those who are mighty, the holy people. He will cause deceit to prosper, and he will consider himself superior. When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power.” Daniel 8:23-25 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Even If  MercyMe     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 23:1-39, TBC Book Two, Chapter 86
Large crowds again gathered around Jesus as he sat in the temple courtyard. He realized this might be his last chance to speak to the vast audience before him. Many Judeans believed he was a great prophet, quite possibly even the Messiah. Others were not sure what to think, but they found him interesting, even entertaining. Still others, particularly those who were the religious leaders, saw Jesus as a problem: He acted independently and ignored their authority.

Jesus looked out among the crowd and said to the people, “The teachers of Scripture and the Pharisees interpret the laws God gave to Moses. So you must obey them. Do what they say—but do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They put burdens on people that they themselves cannot live up to. They love to draw attention to themselves with what they wear and what they do. They want you to think they are spiritual. . . .

Jesus turned to look directly at the religious teachers. “Woe to you, teachers of the Law and Pharisees—you hypocrites! . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 86, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

 Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Recipe for Doomed Leadership
                   Ingredients: Duplicity, narcissism, pride, hypocrisy, greed, self-indulgence, deceit.
                   Set aside: Justice, mercy, faithfulness . . .
     A promise to cling to: “These people are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. For they mouth empty, boastful words. . . They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for ‘people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.’ ” 2 Peter 2:17-19 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Create in Me a Clean Heart  Keith Green     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 22:41-46; Mark 12:41-44; Luke 20:41-44; 21:1-4
TBC Book Two, Chapter 85
All day long a large crowd surrounded Jesus in the temple courtyard, and a group of Pharisees stood very close to him, for they had been asking him question after question. They had tried to come up with difficult questions, hoping at the very least to make Jesus look foolish in front of the crowds. Instead, he had answered with such wisdom and insight that the crowds loved him even more. And if the truth were known, even the Pharisees themselves were impressed by his replies. They were almost afraid to ask him any more questions. 

Seeing that they had grown silent, Jesus said to them, “Now I have a question for you. What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?”

The answer seemed too easy. “The son of David,” they replied. They wondered what Jesus was leading up to. But they didn’t have to wait to find out. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 85, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

 Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The value of what we offer—and how God assesses our worth—is measured not by wealth, but by sacrificial devotion.
     A promise to cling to: “Though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them. One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard:
‘Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love’; and, ‘You reward everyone according to what they have done.’ ” Psalm 62:10-12 NIV
     A praise to fill you: The Goodness of God  CeCe Winans     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 22:34-40; Luke 10:29-37; Mark 12:28-34
TBC Book Two, Chapter 84
Among the hundreds who now listened to Jesus in the temple courts sat a number of trained scholars, experts in the Scriptures. One man, a Pharisee who was an expert on the Law of God, had listened intently to the debate between Jesus and the Sadducees. He was so impressed with what Jesus said that he was curious to hear his view on a question that divided many scholars. So he asked him, “Of all the commandments, what is the most important one?”

“The most important one is this,” Jesus said, “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second greatest one is this: ‘Love your neighbor as you love yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

“Well said, teacher,” the man replied. . . .

Then a question arose about one of those commandments. Someone in the crowd shouted out: “And just who is my neighbor? . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 84, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: The key to God’s Kingdom: Fix your mind, heart, soul, and efforts on loving God; prove it by loving others in words and deeds.
     A promise to cling to: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:16-18 NIV
     A praise to fill you: He Ain’t Heavy  The Hollies     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

Matthew 22:15-33; Luke 20:20-40, TBC Book Two, Chapter 83
The Pharisees met to discuss their problem—unless they acted quickly, it seemed all Judeans would turn to Jesus. The temple crowds were growing larger and larger. There was only one way to deal with him now—trap him in his own words. So the Pharisees came up with a plan: They would work with the Herodians, Jews loyal to King Herod. They would work together to try to get Jesus to say something that would anger the people or anger King Herod.

This time, the Pharisees did not go to Jesus. Instead, they sent their disciples, along with some Herodians. When they finally got their chance to speak, they flattered Jesus with compliments. Then they pretended to be genuinely troubled about a certain question.
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“Teacher,” one of them said, “we know that you are a man of integrity. We know that you teach God’s truths without being swayed by anyone. So here is our question: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar? . . .”

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 83, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Using God’s Word as a wedge is a weapon of wickedness.
     A promise to cling to: “Enemies disguise themselves with their lips, but in their hearts they harbor deceit. Though their speech is charming, do not believe them, for seven abominations fill their hearts. Their malice may be concealed by deception, but their wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.” Proverbs 26:24-26 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Immanuel  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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Matthew 21:33-46; Luke 19:47,48; 20:9-19, TBC Book Two, Chapter 82
Jesus sat in the temple courtyard, and as he spoke, the large crowd surrounding him hung onto his every word. So he told them this parable: “A landowner decided to plant a vineyard. He built a wall around it. Then he dug a winepress just inside the wall. Finally, he also built a watchtower. One day he decided to go away on a journey. He arranged to rent out his vineyard, and the tenants agreed to reserve a certain amount of the fruit for him at harvest time.

“When harvest time came, the landowner sent some servants to the vineyard to collect his share of the fruit. But instead of gathering fruit to send back to him, the tenants all mistreated the servants. They beat up one of them, killed another, and stoned the third.

“When the landowner realized what happened, he sent some more servants to his property, but this time he sent a larger group. When they arrived, however, they, too, were beaten and killed.

“The landowner thought to himself, What shall I do? They have beaten and killed my servants. If I send any more, the same thing would probably happen to them, too. . . .

“I know what I’ll do, the man thought. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 82, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.​

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: Rejecting Jesus is like pushing a boulder uphill. The gravity of that decision calls for change . . . or getting crushed.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. 44 Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.’ ” Matthew 21:43-44 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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Mark 11:20-33; Matthew 21:18-32; Luke 20:1-8, TBC Book Two, Chapter 81
Once again Jesus and his disciples rose early and left Bethany to head for Jerusalem. They traveled the same way as they did the day before. And as they passed near the fig tree, Peter stopped suddenly. “Rabbi,” he shouted, “look! Remember the fig tree that you cursed yesterday? Look at its leaves. It’s dead!”

“If you have faith in God, Peter, you could turn to this mountain and say, ‘Throw yourself into the sea,’ and if you really believed it would happen, it would.”

Jesus now spoke to all of them. “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that God has given it to you and he will. But examine yourself first. If you have a grudge against someone, forgive that person. Then your Father in heaven will also forgive you of your sins.”

They soon reached Jerusalem and entered the temple area. News had spread about Jesus driving out the merchants from the temple courts. Many of the Jewish leaders were there waiting to speak to Jesus as he entered the courtyard. The chief priests, teachers of the Law, and even the elders had all gathered together to confront him.

“Tell us,” they said, “by what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the authority to do all this?”

“I have a question for you first,” Jesus said. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 81, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: John the Baptist performed no miracles but paved the way for the greatest miracle of all—lives changed by Jesus Christ.
     A promise to cling to: “Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.’ ” Matthew 21:31-32 NIV
     A praise to fill you: Could It Be  Michael Card     [Can skip ad after firs 5 seconds]

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Mark 11:12-19; Matthew 21:12-17; Luke 19:45-48; John 2:14-17
TBC Book Two, Chapter 80
When the disciples awoke, they felt like they had been living in a dream. Yesterday their master had finally received the praise he deserved. Surely no one would dare to lay a hand on him now. The people would not allow that to happen.

Jesus and his disciples left Bethany quite early. Jesus led the way, but he turned aside when he saw a fig tree in bloom. As usual, prayer had been more important to him than breakfast. Perhaps some figs would now quell his hunger pains.

It was odd to see a fig tree in bloom this early. As they reached the tree, they realized it had no figs. The disciples were not surprised; after all, it wasn’t the season for figs. What did surprise them was how Jesus responded. Staring at the tree, he said, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” But they forgot about it as they pressed toward Jerusalem.
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As they entered the city, Jesus went straight to the temple. When he reached its outer courts, he stopped and shook his head in disgust. . . .

(See THE BIBLE CLICKS, Book Two, Chapter 80, for the rest of the story.)
​Available in book, e-book, and audiobook formats, sold by Amazon and your favorite bookstores/vendors.

Today’s Takeaways
     A proverb to guide you: A faith that boasts of life-giving fruit but leaves people hungry is exposed by Jesus—rejected by God.
     A promise to cling to: “ ‘And foreigners who bind themselves to the Lord to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord, and to be his servants, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant—these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.’ ” Isaiah 56:6-7 NIV
     A praise to fill you: His Eyes  Steven Curtis Chapman     [Can skip ad after first 5 seconds]

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