When God Speaks

By Jeff Arnette
    In these chapters, we see a profound shift in the narrative of Job. After the long discourse between Job and his friends, where they accuse him of hidden sin and suggest that his suffering is due to God’s judgment, God Himself finally speaks. The Lord’s response is both humbling and enlightening, not just for Job but for all readers of this ancient text.    The silence of Job’s friends highlights an important truth: human wisdom has its limits. For thirty-seven chapters, they argued from their limited perspective, convinced that they knew the mind of God. But when God begins to speak, their words and accusations fall silent. It reminds us that in times of suffering, even the well-intentioned words of friends can be misguided. There is a deeper wisdom and plan at work, one that only God understands.    When God speaks, He doesn’t give Job a direct answer to his suffering. Instead, He asks questions that point to the vastness of His creation and power. These questions reveal Job’s limitations as a man and the supreme authority and knowledge of God. God is not being harsh; rather, He is gently reminding Job that there are things beyond human understanding. Like a loving father teaching a child, God shows Job—and us—that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).    In our own lives, we often seek answers, especially in times of hardship. We demand explanations from God, just as Job did. But sometimes, instead of answers, we are reminded of God’s sovereignty (Haggai 2:20). It’s not that He is indifferent to our pain—on the contrary, He reveals Himself to us because He cares deeply for us. Yet, His wisdom far surpasses ours. We can trust that He knows all things and works them for good (Romans 8:28).    The final reminder of God’s love for us in 1 John 3:1 shows the heart of the matter. God, in His infinite wisdom and power, still chooses to call us His children. This relationship changes how we view His corrections and teachings. Even when life seems overwhelming, we can rest in the knowledge that our Father is guiding us, sometimes through questions, but always with love.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/

Walking Wisely

By Jeff Arnette     The Bible is very clear that believers are not to turn to unbelievers for advice or form binding relationships with them, such as in personal or business partnerships. This principle is outlined in 2 Corinthians 6:14, which says, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” Psalm 1:1 reinforces this point: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers.”     However, this does not mean that we are to completely avoid unbelievers. We are called to reach out to them and show love and compassion just as Jesus did. Matthew 9:10-13 shows us Jesus spending time with those who did not believe, setting a powerful example for us: “And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ But when he heard it, he said, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.’”     Unfortunately, many people use Psalm 1:1 and similar passages to argue that we should entirely avoid non-believers but doing so would contradict Jesus’ teachings. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commands us: “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'” Similarly, Mark 16:16 says, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”     Psalm 1:1 and similar scriptures say is that we are not to seek advice from unbelievers, form close personal relationships, or marry them. Why would we seek guidance from someone who isn’t walking the same spiritual path? Unbelievers do not prioritize what God says, which can lead to conflicting values. Even in marriage, being with an unbeliever can lead to significant problems because the very foundation of love for Jesus is missing on their part. By adhering to the word of God, we can save ourselves from many heartaches and struggles.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/

Recognizing the Need for God.

By Jeff Arnette “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good.” (Psalm 14:1)     The psalmist’s words may strike us as severe. To call someone a “fool” for denying God’s existence feels blunt. But the Bible often uses strong language to reveal deeper truths. Here, a “fool” isn’t merely a person who lacks intelligence. Instead, it describes someone who lacks the wisdom that acknowledges God’s reality and authority over creation. This denial of God leaves them vulnerable to poor judgments, leading them down paths that harm themselves and others.     When we rely on human understanding alone, our decisions often fail us. But as believers, we’re blessed to have access to God’s guidance through His Word and the Holy Spirit. Guidance for Our Journey     Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide us into all truth (John 16:13). And through the psalms, we’re reminded that God’s Word illuminates our path (Psalm 119:105). God’s guidance is a precious gift, leading us away from folly and into life-giving wisdom. We can approach each decision with confidence, knowing that He desires to guide us. The Corruption of a Foolish Heart     The Bible speaks plainly about the consequences of rejecting God. To deny His presence and guidance doesn’t just lead to personal harm; it ultimately separates us from Him (Heb. 2:3). It’s easy to think of “fools” as people who reject God outright. But at times, we may notice areas of our own lives where we ignore His guidance, choosing our way over His. In these moments, we must return to the Lord with humble hearts, seeking His wisdom over our own. A Call to Love and Compassion     Jesus never called us to judge or mistreat those who lack faith. Instead, He urges us to respond with compassion. It’s a gentle reminder that, without Jesus, we all fall short and face the same condemnation. Our hope rests not in our righteousness but in His grace. Let us remember to approach others with empathy, knowing we, too, are recipients of undeserved mercy (Rom. 3:23; 10:9). Reflection     Take a moment today to reflect on areas where you might be tempted to rely on your own understanding rather than seeking God’s guidance. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom in your decisions and for a heart that humbly acknowledges His presence. May we also extend grace and compassion to others, recognizing that we all stand in need of God’s mercy.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/ **

Trusting in God’s Faithfulness

By Jeff Arnette
    From a young age, David understood the power of God in his life. Through various trials, he learned firsthand what God could do when he trusted in Him. David witnessed God’s work in many ways: during his encounters with the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37), and as he faced the giant Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-50). In each situation, God protected him and granted him victory.    The ordeal with King Saul further illustrates God’s faithfulness in David’s life. Saul, consumed by jealousy over David’s popularity (1 Samuel 18:7-9), relentlessly hunted him (1 Samuel 19:1-2; 1 Samuel 23:14). Yet, the Lord guided David through those tough times, keeping him just out of Saul’s reach until Saul’s death in battle (1 Samuel 31:4). This protection was part of God’s greater plan for David’s life.     God had a purpose for David: to lead the people of Israel (1 Samuel 16:12-13). To prepare him for this task, God protected him and guided his steps. David, recognizing the immense gift of God’s protection and guidance, honored it by documenting his experiences in the book of Psalms (Psalm 23:1-6, Psalm 34:1-22). He also refrained from putting himself in harm’s way unnecessarily, trusting in God’s timing and provision (1 Samuel 24:10-12). Similarly, as believers, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that we are protected by our faith in Christ: “In all circumstances, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16).    David’s life encourages us to reflect on God’s faithfulness in our own lives. Like David, we all face moments when challenges seem like a giant in our path—whether it’s a personal struggle, a difficult relationship, or uncertainty about the future. During these times, we can take comfort in knowing that God is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer. Let me encourage you to reflect on the ways God has worked in your past—how He has protected you, guided you, and provided for you when things seemed impossible. Let these reflections build your faith for present challenges.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/

Faith Under Fire

By Jeff Arnette     The depth and severity of Job’s struggles demand repeating. It’s necessary so that we learn from his life and struggles. He nearly lost everything of value to him—he lost all of family except his wife, his servants, and wealth. Even his health was taken from him and was brought to the very edge of death’s door. Considering all that he suffered, his faith was surprisingly strong. Most would have given up or questioned God’s love for us.     It’s not that Job never got down or discouraged from all this. Like any of us, he felt hurt and pain. He felt lonely and defeated. It would not be a stretch to say he was depressed at times. The key to what made Job successful is found in our verses for today.     His faith in the Lord never wavered. It was as strong in the hard times as it was in the good times. Through the hard times and the good, it was just as strong. His circumstances didn’t influence how he saw the Lord. “keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” (Jude 21)     He knew where all the good had come from… “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) but just as importantly he knew where all the bad had come from… “Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.” (James 1:13)     Life may get us down at times. Yet it is our God who can truly deliver us from the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23) and bring us to the mountain top of victory again. Keep following the Lord, keep loving and trusting Him. The world may fail us, but our God will not. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/

God's Mercy

By Brian Mitchell
    The story is told of a mother who came to Napoleon to request a pardon for her son who was to soon be executed. Napoleon responded to the mother by saying that this was her son’s second offence and according to the law, justice demanded death and that is what her son would receive. The mother responded by saying that “I am not asking you for justice, I am pleading for mercy.” To which Napoleon responded by saying, “but your son does not deserve mercy.” The mother replied, “Sir, it would not be mercy if he deserved it and mercy is all that I am asking for.” At her continued requests, Napoleon finally responded by saying, “Well then, I will show mercy and pardon your son, sparing his life from certain death.”    What is mercy? As the story illustrates, it is receiving a pardon we do not deserve. In the spiritual sense, what each of us deserves is justice, we deserve to be eternally lost because of our sins. But God has shown mercy, and because of His mercy He has granted us with the opportunity to be saved instead--Ps.86:5, Eph.2:4-7.     In Paul’s 1st letter to the young preacher Timothy—1 Tim.2:12-17, he provides: An illustration of God’s mercy—1:12-14, The reasons for God’s mercy—1:15-16 and The proper response to God’s mercy—1:17. What can mercy do for you? To answer that question, I believe it would be helpful to consider what God’s mercy had done for Paul. What did God’s mercy do for Paul? It enabled Paul to do the work of the Lord.    Ministry—is from the Greek word from which we get the word service. Thus, Paul, because of the Lord’s mercy, had literally been put into the service of the Lord. Something he would have been unable and unworthy to do otherwise. Specifically, Paul was in the ministry or service of the gospel. It was to the defense and spread of the gospel that Paul had devoted his life.    Why, because the Lord had enabled him to do so. Enable—to make strong. Thus, the Lord had literally given Paul the strength he needed to carry out his ministry for the Lord—Phil.4:13. Why did Jesus do this? Because He had counted Paul faithful which means trustworthy. Even though Paul had persecuted the church, the Lord knew him to be a faithful man. Whatever Paul did, he did it to the best of his ability. Thus, the Lord showed Paul mercy and put him into the ministry.    What does this have to do with us? Everything and here is why. Consider Paul’s life before he received the mercy of God—v.13. He was a blasphemer, which means to speak in a way that brings harm to others. He was a persecutor, which literally conveys the image of one who puts another to flight and then pursues him with intentions of harassment or worse (Jackson, p.41). He was insolent and this, according to Wayne Jackson, is a truly dramatic word. The word speaks of both one’s attitudes and his actions.    These things however, Paul, did in ignorant unbelief. The historical record of God’s Word makes it clear that in all of his hateful actions against the Lord, Paul had been pursuing what HE THOUGHT was a proper course of action. “I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1). “I myself thought I must do many things contrary to the name of Christ” (Acts 26:9). Thus, Paul thought he was doing what was right but he was acting in ignorance.    Yet despite it all, Paul had found pardon in the mercy of God and a place in His service. Paul stands out as one of the greatest examples of God’s grace in human history. If one such as Paul could obtain mercy; who can’t?

- Brian Mitchell serves as a minister with the Jackson Church of Christ in Jackson, MO. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at https://www.jacksonchurchofchrist.net

Esther and the Providence of God

By Jeff Arnette
    The providence of God is seen throughout the entire Bible. Even though God is not named in Esther, His providence is seen. A prime example is the Lord at work to save the people of Israel through a clear timeline of events.    The story begins with Nebuchadnezzar taking Judah into captivity. This allowed for the positioning of Mordecai (Jeremiah 25:11). We see the Lord placing Mordecai exactly where he needed to be to accomplish His will. As time progressed, Mordecai’s continued presence in Babylon under the reign of three successive kings—Cyrus, Darius, and Ahasuerus—further illustrated God’s active role (Ezra 1:1-4). Mordecai remained in the precise location necessary to fulfill God’s purpose for His people, as highlighted in Romans 9:11, which speaks to God’s sovereign choice and purpose.    God’s providence is also evident in His work through Mordecai’s cousin, Esther, whom he raised as his daughter (Esther 2:7). Esther found favor with the king’s steward, Hegai (Esther 2:9), and later with the king himself, who loved her and made her queen (Esther 2:17). This favorable positioning was crucial, especially since Haman, unaware of Esther’s Jewish identity, devised a plan against the Jews (Esther 3:5-6). God’s foresight and planning, long before the events unfolded (Romans 8:28) which assures us that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.    Finally, Mordecai’s challenge to Esther to save the Jews emphasizes the Lord’s involvement, encapsulated in the phrase “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Just as God orchestrated the events in Esther’s life, He often works in our lives long before we recognize the need. This is a reminder of God’s timeless involvement in human affairs and His precise timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Trusting in His timing and His ability to place us exactly where we need to be when we need to be there is essential, as supported by Hebrews 2:4, which speaks of God bearing witness through signs, wonders, and various miracles.    Throughout the story of Esther, we see God’s providence and His unwavering commitment to His people. Esther’s story is a testament to how God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways to accomplish His divine plans. It serves as an encouragement to trust in God’s timing and His purposeful placement of us in various situations for the fulfillment of His will.

- Jeff Arnette preaches for the Central Haywood church of Christ, Clyde, NC.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: https://centralhaywoodcoc.com/