Matthew 5:1-48

In this chapter, Jesus explains the beatitudes, which mean blessings and a series of other norms that benefit everyone.

He talks about how we ought to live as Christians so that others may see Him in us, how to treat others, our enemies and opponents in a law case, how to love our enemies, and how we can be adulterous by just looking lustfully at someone and many other norms that help us grow, mature, and live like Christ in this world.

I encourage you to adhere closely to these norms, for in the end, when we face the Lord, we will be rewarded greatly. Our adherence will not only benefit us but also inspire others to follow in our footsteps and be rewarded, too.

Matthew 4:1-25; James 4:7; Hebrews 2:18 & 4:15; 1 Corinthians 10:13

Matthew 3:1-17; 2 Kings 1:8; Isaiah 40:3; 1 John 1:9

We are tested and tempted every day, and sometimes, this pulls us to sin, but if we confess, as the verse in 1 John says, we will be forgiven and cleansed from all unrighteousness.

John the Baptist, a significant figure in our faith, came to the Jews with a powerful message. He urged them to seek forgiveness and confess their sins, essentially, to redirect their lives. The act of baptism, a tangible symbol of this forgiveness, was a powerful representation of this transformative journey.

As humans, we are tried and tested every day, but Jesus's sacrifice at the cross opened up the upward route to the Father. So, today, I encourage you to ask for forgiveness and repent so that you can be redeemed by the Savior, our Lord Jesus.

Matthew 1:1-23; Micah 5:2; John 1:46; Jeremiah 31:15

Here, God's protection for his son is vividly seen. God tells us to follow his voice and obey, just like Joseph and many other people in the Bible.

When God speaks, it is crucial for us to act. This is not only for our own benefit but also for those whom God has spoken about. Often, God does not immediately reveal the reasons behind his instructions, as he did with Joseph on his command to go to Egypt. However, in due time, we may come to understand the wisdom in his commands.

Just like Abraham and Joseph, in this case, we ought to listen to and follow God's instructions, for we will reap the benefits later on.

Matthew 1:1-25; Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27; Isaiah 7:14

Matthew, also known as Levi in Hebrew, was a tax collector. This chapter details Joseph's lineage, which ultimately leads to Jesus's genealogy. The individuals listed in this genealogy were Jews or followed Jewish teachings, which is why I believe they are included here. The word of God is not merely a collection of teachings, but the very foundation of our existence. It is through His word that we find guidance, and He desires that we align our decisions with His divine wisdom. Nations should adhere to what is effective and beneficial for all citizens. In His word, there are values that can save a country and its citizens.

Here is a quick overview of the New Testament.

The New Testament, a testament to diversity, was written in Greek by a group of Jewish writers between 50 and 120 CE. These writers include Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, James, Peter, Jude, and Hebrew (an unknown writer).

The New Testament is divided into the Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Epistles, and Apocalypse.

Join me tomorrow to explore the book of John (gospel), the first book of the New Testament.

Malachi 4:1-6; Matthew 11:14; Mark 9:11-13; Luke 1:17

Here, God promises the coming of his son, and foretells the role of a preparer, a role that John the Baptist would later fulfill in a transformative manner in the new testatment.

The last verse of this chapter says that God will restore the children's hearts to their fathers and vice versa, and the only way to do so is if we pray for them. We are to pray for the most challenging people in our lives, such as relatives, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances, so we will be ready when Jesus comes.

Stay playerful so that his coming will be soon, and he receives a bride ready to see him.

Malachi 2:1-17; 2 Corinthians 6: 14; 2 Chronicles 31:4; Ruth:16-17

In the second chapter of Malachi, the Lord teaches the Israelites to serve Him with all their heart and to abide by His law.

Malachi 1:1-14; Genesis 25:23 and Romans 12:1