Abraham’s story is more than ancient history — it is the blueprint for every disciple who seeks covenant belonging, divine protection, and a future filled with hope. This week’s Come, Follow Me study reveals how God transforms ordinary people into extraordinary instruments of righteousness. The narrative not only showcases the life of Abraham but also serves as a powerful reminder that faith can lead to significant change and divine outcomes.
From Abraham’s near‑sacrifice in Ur to the sweeping promises of the Abrahamic Covenant, these chapters unveil the pattern of deliverance, faith, priesthood, and covenant identity that defines the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each event in Abraham’s journey can be viewed as a stepping stone toward understanding how God interacts with humankind and the purpose He has for each of us in fulfilling His divine plan.
Drawing from Genesis, the Book of Abraham, the Pearl of Great Price Student Manual, and the Come, Follow Me 2026 manual, this commentary provides doctrinal clarity, historical context, and practical application for modern disciples. This comprehensive approach allows readers to see the relevancy of Abraham’s story in today’s context, encouraging them to deepen their understanding of their own faith journeys.
Abraham’s life is a witness that righteous desires shape destiny. Though born into a family steeped in idolatry, Abraham “sought for the blessings of the fathers” and desired “to be a greater follower of righteousness” (Abraham 1:2). His story demonstrates that God honors righteous desire with revelation, deliverance, and covenant belonging. This ideal underscores the power of longing for a deeper connection with God and striving for righteousness, emphasizing that such pursuits are met with divine support and guidance.
This study argues that:
Abraham’s early trials reveal the pattern of divine deliverance. Each trial faced by Abraham not only tested his faith but also set the stage for miraculous intervention by the Lord, reinforcing the belief that faith often precedes divine action.
The Abrahamic Covenant is the foundation of all latter‑day covenant identity. This covenant is essential in understanding the relationship between God and His people, serving as a framework for spiritual growth and community among believers.
Abraham’s life models what it means to walk the covenant path with faith, sacrifice, and obedience. His unwavering commitment in the face of uncertainty illustrates the essence of discipleship. Disciples today are called to emulate this model, highlighting the importance of perseverance, trust, and dedication on their own journeys.
Ultimately, the exploration of Abraham’s life serves as both an educational and inspirational guide for individuals seeking to embrace a deeper sense of identity within their covenant relationship with God. It challenges readers to reflect on their own journeys, urging them to strive for the kind of faith that transforms lives and leads to lasting hope.
God often begins His work in the quiet soil of longing, where dreams lie dormant, waiting for the gentle touch of faith to cultivate them. In this sacred space, where silence speaks volumes and sincere desires take root, the heart learns to hope anew, nurturing seeds of potential that, with time and devotion, will blossom into a beautiful manifestation of His divine purpose. It is here that we discover the deep connection between our longings and the unfolding of His plans, reminding us that even in the stillness, something remarkable is taking shape beneath the surface, preparing us for the amazing journey ahead.
Every generation eventually reaches a moment when it looks around and whispers, “Something is wrong with the world.” In these times, violence feels all too normal, permeating the fabric of society and influencing our daily lives. The mockery of faith becomes a fashionable trend, with belief systems ridiculed and disregarded as obsolete or irrelevant. Covenant identity, once held as sacred and unbreakable, is now treated as merely optional, leading many to question their values and commitments.
Amidst this unsettling atmosphere, the quiet, steady voice of God seems drowned out by the cacophony of a culture sprinting toward self-destruction. The distractions and temptations of the modern world are many, each vying for our attention and allegiance, leaving little room for genuine reflection on our spiritual existence.
Genesis 6–11 is not ancient history. It’s a mirror reflecting our current realities. Within these verses, we can find resonating truths about the human condition and the inherent struggles we face in a world rife with chaos. The narratives captured in these chapters hold profound relevance today, illustrating the timeless nature of our challenges and the critical need for divine intervention amidst suffering and despair.
Moses 8 is not merely a prelude to the Flood; it functions as a prophetic commentary on what true discipleship can look like when the world is collapsing around you. This text invites readers to consider their own paths and the steadfastness required to remain faithful in the face of overwhelming adversity. The examples set forth serve as reminders that unwavering dedication to one’s beliefs can be both a source of strength and a beacon of hope in dark times.
Noah’s story is not merely a story about a simple boat; it is an embodiment of a God who passionately refuses to give up on His children. The narrative illustrates the depths of divine love and commitment, showing that even when humanity falters, God’s covenant remains steadfast. It’s about a covenant that refuses to die despite the floods of life that threaten to engulf us. It’s about grace that finds us, even when the world is drowning in despair, offering a lifeline steeped in hope, redemption, and the promise of a new beginning. This grace reminds us that no matter how far we stray, we are never beyond the reach of divine mercy and love.
Many of us most likely assume the gospel began in the New Testament. Yet Genesis 5 and Moses 6 reveal something astonishing: the fullness of the gospel—faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, the Holy Ghost, priesthood, and covenant discipleship—was taught from the very beginning. These chapters unveil a sweeping narrative of divine instruction, generational faithfulness, and the sacred responsibility to teach truth to rising generations.
For many of us, navigating a morally chaotic world can be incredibly challenging. In these turbulent times, these chapters offer a profound blueprint for spiritual resilience. The teachings found within Genesis and Moses not only provide guidance but also serve as a reminder that the principles of the gospel are timeless. They anchor us in our faith and help us to cultivate a sense of moral clarity amid confusion and chaos. For those in recovery, these scriptures reveal the ancient pattern of redemption, rebirth, and transformation through Christ, showcasing how individuals have consistently turned to God for restoration and new beginnings.
This study for the Come Follow Me – Old Testament invites us to delve deeply into the genealogies, doctrines, and prophetic ministries of pivotal figures like Adam, Seth, and Enoch, along with their descendants. It illuminates the remarkable legacy of faith that was passed down through generations. The narratives of these early prophets illustrate how their teachings and life experiences reflect Christ’s redemptive work. They emphasize the importance of our covenantal responsibility to “teach these things freely unto your children” (Moses 6:58), urging us to carry forward the torch of faith and truth to future generations.
As we engage with these ancient texts, we not only gain insights into the foundations of our beliefs but also discover the imperative to be proactive stewards of spiritual knowledge. In doing so, we can empower those around us to withstand the pressures of the world, fostering a community that thrives on the principles of the gospel. By sharing the stories and teachings of our ancestors, we reaffirm the enduring relevance of their faith and the everlasting hope that can be found in Christ.
Every relapse begins long before the drink, the click, the lie, or the outburst. It begins at the door of the heart — where sin waits, patient and persuasive. Genesis 4 doesn’t just tell Cain’s story; it exposes ours. The battle is not “out there.” It is the quiet moment before the choice, the whisper before the fall, the emotion before the action. God does not shame Cain. He questions him. He invites him. He warns him. He offers a way out. The same God speaks to us with the same clarity, compassion, and authority.
Hello and welcome, fellow travelers, to Sacred Sobriety: A Path for the Soul. Today, we step into one of Scripture’s most honest scenes — a moment where God reveals the anatomy of temptation and the mercy of early intervention. Genesis 4:6–7 is not a story of failure; it is a story of warning, wisdom, and the possibility of victory. For anyone in recovery, this passage is a mirror and a map.
Genesis 4:6–7 (NASB 2020)“Then the Lord said to Cain, ‘Why are you angry? And why is your face gloomy? If you do well, will your face not be cheerful? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.’”
Welcome fellow travelers to our devotional series Daily Exodus – Disciplines of Deliverance for the Sacred Sobriety channel.
Some of us are drowning in the same waters God already commanded to move. We’re praying for deliverance while standing in the very place where God intends to plant us.
Today, we’re stepping into Day 3 of Creation — the moment God gathers the waters and reveals dry ground. This is the pattern of deliverance. Not escape. Not avoidance. But God creating a place for your feet to stand.
If you’re navigating recovery, fear, doubt, or a faith crisis, this episode is for you. God is not just separating your chaos — He is forming stability beneath you. Let’s walk this out together.
Day 3 is the first moment in Scripture where something solid appears.
Not light.
Not boundaries.
But ground — a place to stand, a place to grow, a place to begin again.
I have a question for you – are you ready to experience the Old Testament like never before? 2026 brings us into the study of the Old Testament for Come Follow Me. Be sure to access this resource by clicking the link here – Come Follow Me – Old Testament. This is not your ordinary reading plan – it is a covenantal journey that blends scripture, recovery, and discipleship into a transformative path of resilient faith. Whether you are seeking to deepen and enrich your faith, understanding of the Old Testament, daily devotional, or a framework to thrive in recovery and sobriety – this year will offer a unique resource and opportunity designed to meet you were you are and guide you forward.
Here is what you may look forward to:
Weekly Expository Teachings: Study, examine, and apply covenant themes and recovery parallels with clear scripture -anchored expository commentary and teaching. Each message balances faith and reason, showing how the Old Testament speaks spiritually and intellectually to each one of us.
Daily Devotionals: Structured readings harmonized with the Beatitudes and traditional twelve steps where it offers insight and empowerment for individuals to make personal and spiritual applications while walking a path of recovery and sobriety through discipleship.
Come Follow Me Livestream Panel Discussion: There is a group of Latter-day Saint content creators who get together and have livestream panel discussions weekly. We meet and livestream every Sunday, 8 PM PST/9 PM MST. This is livestreamed to multiple channels and platforms. You can watch on my social media platforms on YouTube, Facebook, and X. Or watch here on WordPress when it is posted.
Watch the Livestream CFM Discussion on the Family Proclamation Sunday, December 21, 2025 – 8 PM PST/ 9 PM PST. If you are interested in joining the livestream chat and interact with other viewers, ask the panelist questions then click through to watch on YouTube.
Anchoring in scripture, offering support, and empowering growth in recovery and sobriety – these resources encourage each person to experience the mysteries of God and understand His tender mercies in their own life.
Obedience, faith, worship, and redemption weave through Scripture, connecting the Old and New Testaments in profound ways. In today’s passages — Exodus 39:1-40:38, Psalm 22:16-21, Proverbs 8:22-31, and Matthew 27:1-26 — we see these themes come to life. From the Israelites’ careful obedience in constructing the tabernacle to the glory of the Lord filling their midst, we’re reminded of God’s desire for devoted hearts. In Psalm 22, prophetic words unfold, pointing to the suffering Messiah, while Proverbs 8 reveals the eternal wisdom of God, present before creation. Finally, Matthew’s account of Jesus’ trial and silence before Pilate displays the ultimate act of love and submission to God’s will. These texts challenge us to trust, obey, and fix our eyes on Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
Includes the Inductive Bible Study Method, Recommended Margin Notes, and Scripture Highlight Suggestions.
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The Completion of the Tabernacle and Obedience in Exodus 39:1-40:38
The completion of the Tabernacle in Exodus isn’t just a story about constructing a sacred space—it’s a picture of devotion, obedience, and God’s presence among His people. By following God’s commands down to the smallest detail, the Israelites entered into an act of worship that goes beyond mere craftsmanship. These chapters reveal not only their obedience but also the fulfillment of God’s promises. Let’s take a closer look.
Obedience Reflected in the Tabernacle’s Construction
The Tabernacle’s construction is recorded with remarkable detail, emphasizing that every task was done “as the Lord commanded Moses” (Exodus 39:42). This repeated refrain shows the emphasis God places on obedience. The Israelites didn’t cut corners or alter the plan—they followed every instruction with care. Why? Because their obedience demonstrated trust.
Imagine being tasked with building something so intricate, where every stitch, every engraving, and every item carried a symbolic meaning. The Israelites could have questioned the necessity of such precision. After all, wouldn’t a simpler structure suffice? But they understood that obedience wasn’t about understanding every detail; it was about faith. Their willingness to do it exactly as God commanded was an act of respect and worship.
For us, this story is a reminder that God calls us to complete His work—even when it may feel difficult or unnecessary. Like the Israelites, we honor Him when we trust His Word enough to follow it fully. Our daily acts of faith, whether small or large, are opportunities to reflect obedience and love.
The Glory of the Lord Filling the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38)
Once the Tabernacle was finished, something extraordinary happened. The glory of the Lord descended and filled the sanctuary. Exodus 40:34 says, “Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle.” It wasn’t just a symbolic moment—it was a visual confirmation of God’s approval and presence among His people.
This moment mirrored later events, like when Solomon dedicated the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11). It demonstrated that God was truly with His people, fulfilling His covenant promise.
Today, this event should remind us of the importance of holy spaces in our lives—not just physical structures like church buildings, but the space we make for God in our hearts. Worship today might look different from the Tabernacle, but the same principle applies: when we dedicate ourselves to Him fully, His presence fills our lives. Are we making room for His glory, or are we holding back parts of our lives?
God’s Guiding Presence: The Cloud and Fire (Exodus 40:38)
The final verses of Exodus capture the significance of God’s ongoing guidance. Verse 38 describes how the cloud of the Lord rested on the Tabernacle by day and a fire was present by night. It was a constant reminder of His leadership, provision, and protection.
Think about it: the Israelites had a visible sign of God’s presence, 24/7. They didn’t need to wonder where to go or question if God had left them. The cloud and fire served as their guide, assuring them of His faithfulness.
Yet, how often do we doubt God’s guidance today, even though we have His Spirit living within us? The Holy Spirit is our “fire by night,” leading us and lighting the way when life feels dark. While the Israelites had an external sign, we have an internal guide—a constant presence. The question is, are we listening?
Just like the Israelites needed to follow the cloud when it moved, we need to stay attuned to the Spirit’s leading, trusting that His direction will take us exactly where we need to be.
This section is a powerful reminder that true obedience, faith, and worship are not outdated principles but timeless truths. When we trust God fully, we create not just structures or spaces, but holy encounters with Him.
Psalm 22:16-21 – A Prophecy of the Suffering Servant
Psalm 22:16-21 is a vivid and prophetic passage of Scripture that paints a striking picture of suffering, trust, and ultimate triumph. Written by David, this psalm transcends his immediate context to point directly to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The intense imagery and heartfelt cries capture both the raw humanity of pain and the divine plan of redemption through sacrifice. Let’s explore the themes of this passage and how they shape our understanding of faith, suffering, and deliverance.
The Imagery of Suffering and Sacrifice
The language of Psalm 22:16-21 is hauntingly specific: “They pierce my hands and my feet” (verse 16, NASB). As Christians, it’s impossible to overlook how this parallels the crucifixion of Jesus. When David wrote these words, execution by crucifixion wasn’t even practiced in his time, making this passage remarkably prophetic.
David describes being surrounded by enemies like a pack of dogs, violent and unrelenting. These enemies gloat and divide his garments (verse 18), details fulfilled in John 19:23-24 during Jesus’ crucifixion. This imagery isn’t coincidental; it’s a deliberate pointer to the suffering Messiah who would endure humiliation and physical agony for humanity’s redemption.
But why such graphic depictions? They remind us of the severe cost of sin and the profound depth of God’s love. Jesus took on this suffering willingly, fulfilling the prophecy to reconcile us to God. When we meditate on this passage, we are drawn into the weight of His sacrifice—a sacrifice that wasn’t just for history but for you and me today.
Trust Amidst Trials and Deliverance
Amid the vivid descriptions of anguish, Psalm 22 takes a turn toward trust: “But You, Lord, do not be far away; You who are my help, hurry to my assistance” (verse 19). Even while feeling abandoned and surrounded by threats, the psalmist calls out to God, confident in His saving power.
This faith amidst suffering mirrors Jesus’ own cry on the cross: “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). Yet even in this moment of despair, Christ’s words echo the psalm, drawing attention to its ultimate message of deliverance. For believers, this is a powerful reminder that faith isn’t about the absence of trials—it’s about trusting God in the midst of them.
How does this connect to our lives? We all face moments where pain seems overwhelming, and God feels distant. But Psalm 22 shows us that suffering isn’t the end of the story. God hears and responds, often in ways we cannot see immediately. When we lean on Him, we discover the strength to endure and the hope that deliverance will come.
Practical application can look like:
Prayer during hardship: Like the psalmist, bring your struggles directly to God, trusting He hears you.
Remembering His past faithfulness: Look back on times when God has come through before—it strengthens faith.
Focusing on future promises: Scripture is filled with assurances of God’s presence and deliverance.
Psalm 22 moves from despair to victory, a journey that reflects the Christian life. Suffering is real, but so is the hope of restoration and the joy of God’s ultimate triumph. God’s deliverance not only lifted David’s spirit but extends to all believers through Jesus Christ, whose suffering secured eternal victory.
Proverbs 8:22-31 – Wisdom as a Divine Attribute
Proverbs 8:22-31 paints a beautiful and poetic picture of wisdom as a divine attribute, present before the foundations of the world. Wisdom, personified as a woman, is not a mere human characteristic but an eternal and essential part of God’s creation and order. This passage invites us to not only marvel at God’s grand design but also to seek wisdom in our daily walk with Him.
Wisdom’s Eternal Role in Creation
Proverbs 8:22 starts with a profound declaration: “The Lord created me as the first of His way, Before His works of old.” In this context, Wisdom is presented as a co-worker or companion of God, present at the very beginning of creation. Some interpret this passage literally, but it’s widely recognized as personification—a poetic way of showing that wisdom is woven into the fabric of the universe.
The passage highlights Wisdom’s role in creation through vivid imagery. Wisdom rejoices in God’s work, standing as an observer and participant when He “marked out the foundations of the earth” (verse 29). Through this, we see that living with wisdom is not just optional but foundational to aligning with God’s purpose.
How does this inform faith and life decisions? By acknowledging wisdom as part of God’s character and creation, we understand that wise choices reflect God’s order. When we follow wisdom, we’re walking in step with the Creator’s design. That means seeking wisdom isn’t just about knowledge or strategy—it’s about partnering with God in His work.
Think about it this way: just as no builder would use random measurements to construct a home, we can’t afford to build our lives without Godly wisdom. To ignore wisdom is to build on shaky ground. Proverbs 8 reminds us to embrace God’s insight as our blueprint for faith, work, relationships, and decisions.
Applying Divine Wisdom in Daily Life
So, how do we apply this divine wisdom in the world we live in today? Proverbs isn’t just high theology; it’s deeply practical. Here are a few ways biblical wisdom plays out in daily life:
Decision-Making: Before making a significant decision, ask, “Does this align with God’s values, and will it bring honor to Him?” Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord and not rely solely on our understanding.
Relationships: Interactions with others should reflect the wisdom found in Scriptures. Being slow to anger, quick to forgive, and generous in love are patterns infused with God’s wisdom (James 1:19, Ephesians 4:32).
Work and Integrity: Whether leading a team, serving clients, or managing a home, wisdom calls us to work with diligence and honesty, remembering that we are ultimately serving the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24).
Handling Challenges: Life will throw curveballs, but wisdom helps us respond rather than react. For example, when faced with criticism, a wise person turns inward for self-growth rather than outward for retaliation (Proverbs 15:1).
Just as Wisdom was present at creation, it’s also meant to guide our lives today. It’s not fleeting or temporary; it’s eternal, steady, and available. When we meditate on passages like Proverbs 8, we’re reminded that wisdom is God’s gift to us—a gift that brings clarity, peace, and purpose. Let’s take full advantage of it, keeping our eyes on God as the ultimate source of all understanding.
Are we making daily choices rooted in God’s wisdom? If not, Proverbs 8 is a call to pause, reflect, and realign ourselves with His eternal plan.
Matthew 27:1-26 – Jesus’ Trial and Sacrificial Love
Matthew 27:1-26 brings us face-to-face with Jesus’ final hours before His crucifixion, unfolding the trial before Pontius Pilate and the events leading to His condemned death. It’s a moment filled with injustice, silence, and overwhelming love. This passage not only reveals the depth of human rebellion but also points to God’s divine plan in the midst of human failure. Let’s explore the key themes that emerge in Jesus’ trial.
Jesus’ Silence Before His Accusers
Throughout His trial, Jesus didn’t defend Himself, even as accusations mounted. Matthew 27:12 tells us, “While He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He did not answer.” This wasn’t weakness or resignation—it was a deliberate choice, fulfilling Isaiah 53:7: “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth.”
Why did He remain silent? Jesus’ trust in God’s plan exceeded His concern for a fair trial. He knew that His mission was not to avoid suffering but to endure it for our sake. His silence highlights His perfect submission to the will of the Father. While most of us would scramble to advocate for ourselves against false accusations, Christ’s silence was both a statement of His sovereignty and His willingness to bear the weight of our sin.
For today’s believers, His silence speaks volumes. It challenges us to trust God’s plan, even in moments when we want to argue, defend, or retaliate. Jesus’ restraint reminds us that sometimes trusting in God means choosing silence over control.
The Choice of Barabbas Over Jesus
One of the most striking parts of this passage is the crowd’s choice. During the Passover, Pilate offered to release one prisoner, giving the people the option between Jesus and Barabbas, a notorious criminal (Matthew 27:17). Shockingly, the crowd demanded Barabbas’ freedom and called for Jesus to be crucified.
This choice is symbolic of humanity’s rebellion against God. Barabbas, a sinner guilty of insurrection and murder, represents all of us. Jesus, the innocent Lamb of God, took His place—just as He took ours. The crowd’s call for Barabbas exposes the depth of human sin; left to our own devices, we often choose what is wrong over what is holy.
Isn’t this choice still alive today? Like the crowd, we sometimes reject Christ’s truth for convenience, comfort, or cultural acceptance. Yet, even in this rejection, God’s plan prevails. Jesus willingly took the place of Barabbas, bearing God’s wrath meant for sinners. This reminds us that salvation isn’t something we deserve—it’s a gift of sheer grace.
The Love of Christ Displayed in His Sacrifice
Finally, Matthew 27:1-26 reveals the heart of Jesus’ mission: sacrificial love. It’s easy to overlook the magnitude of what Jesus endured, but the trial reveals the cost of our redemption. He stood silently before His accusers, knowing that He would soon face a brutal crucifixion. Why? Because of His love for us—love so profound it’s beyond human comprehension.
Hebrews 12:2 says, “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross.” That joy was the reconciliation between humanity and God. Jesus’ focus wasn’t on His suffering, humiliation, or injustice—it was on us. His love wasn’t a vague emotion; it was action, enduring shame, pain, and death for our redemption.
This self-sacrificial love calls us to respond. Ephesians 5:2 urges us to “walk in love, just as Christ also loved us and gave Himself up for us.” Reflecting on Christ’s trial, we’re reminded that true love seeks the good of others, even at great personal cost.
Whether through serving others, forgiving those who wrong us, or standing firm in faith amidst adversity, we’re called to model this love. Jesus’ sacrifice wasn’t just a moment in history—it’s the foundation of our faith and worship. It challenges us to live daily as reflections of His love, shining His light in a world that still wrestles with rebellion and rejection.
Jesus’ trial is more than a historical event; it’s a window into His heart. Through His silence, His trial, and His sacrifice, we see a love that knows no boundaries. How are we responding to such love in our lives today?
Conclusion
Through the narratives of Exodus, Psalms, Proverbs, and Matthew, we see God’s consistent call for obedience, trust, and transformation. Exodus highlights the importance of faithfully following His commands, creating space for His presence to dwell. Psalm 22 brings the hope of redemption through the suffering Messiah, fulfilled in Jesus. Proverbs 8 calls us to live in alignment with divine wisdom, woven into the fabric of creation. Matthew 27 shows the ultimate act of love in Jesus’ sacrificial silence and enduring trial for our sake.
These passages challenge us to respond with faith and action. Are we making room for God’s presence in our hearts like the Israelites did in the Tabernacle? Are we seeking wisdom for our choices? Are we embracing the profound love of Christ by living it out? Trust, love, and obedience remain as vital today as they were then. Let us strive to walk with God daily, guided by His Spirit, reflecting His glory in every area of our lives.
