Anchor My Faith

Faithfulness in Covenant, Watchfulness in Waiting, and Wisdom in Walking

Old Testament Reading

Joshua 24:1–33 — Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve

Overview:
Joshua gathers all Israel at Shechem and recounts God’s faithfulness from Abraham through the conquest of the land. He calls the people to fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity, and put away foreign gods. The people affirm their commitment, and Joshua establishes a covenant, setting up a stone as a witness. The chapter concludes with the deaths of Joshua, Eleazar, and the burial of Joseph’s bones, marking the end of an era of faithful leadership.

Theological Themes:
• Covenant renewal and commitment to God
• God’s faithfulness across generations
• The necessity of choosing obedience and rejecting idolatry

Key Verse:
Joshua 24:15 – “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why does Joshua recount Israel’s history before calling for commitment?
   Answer: Joshua reminds the people of God’s past faithfulness to ground their present decision in truth. Their obedience is not based on obligation alone but on gratitude for what God has already done.
2. What does it mean to “choose this day” whom to serve?
   Answer: It emphasizes a decisive and personal commitment. Faithfulness to God requires intentional rejection of all competing loyalties.
3. Why is the covenant sealed with a witness stone?
   Answer: The stone serves as a physical reminder of their commitment, reinforcing accountability and the seriousness of their promise before God.

New Testament Reading

Luke 21:1–28 — The Widow’s Offering and the Signs of the End

Overview:
Jesus observes a poor widow giving two small coins and commends her sacrificial giving. He then teaches about the destruction of the temple and the coming trials, warning of deception, persecution, and cosmic signs. Jesus calls His followers to endurance and watchfulness, assuring them that redemption is drawing near for those who remain faithful.

Theological Themes:
• True devotion measured by sacrifice, not amount
• God’s sovereignty over history and future events
• Endurance and hope in the face of tribulation

Key Verse:
Luke 21:3 – “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why does Jesus praise the widow’s small offering?
   Answer: Because she gave out of her poverty, demonstrating complete trust in God. Her gift reflects genuine devotion, unlike those who gave from abundance.
2. What is the purpose of Jesus’ warnings about future events?
   Answer: To prepare His followers so they are not deceived or fearful but remain steadfast in faith during trials.
3. What does it mean that “your redemption is drawing near”?
   Answer: It points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s salvation, encouraging believers to lift their heads in hope despite present difficulties.

Psalms Reading

Psalm 89:38–52 — A Cry in the Midst of Brokenness

Overview:
The psalmist laments what appears to be God’s rejection of His anointed king and the apparent failure of the Davidic covenant. He describes defeat, humiliation, and the triumph of enemies, yet boldly calls on God to remember His promises. The psalm ends with a declaration of praise, affirming trust in God despite unanswered questions.

Theological Themes:
• Tension between God’s promises and present suffering
• Lament as an expression of faith
• Trust in God’s covenant faithfulness

Key Verse:
Psalm 89:49 – “Lord, where is your steadfast love of old, which by your faithfulness you swore to David?”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why does the psalmist question God’s faithfulness?
   Answer: The current circumstances seem to contradict God’s promises, leading the psalmist to wrestle honestly with God while still trusting Him.
2. How does lament demonstrate faith rather than doubt?
   Answer: Lament brings pain before God instead of turning away from Him, showing reliance on His character even in confusion.
3. Why does the psalm end with praise?
   Answer: It reflects a deliberate choice to trust God’s unchanging nature, affirming that His promises remain true despite present struggles.

Proverbs Reading

Proverbs 13:20–23 — Walking with the Wise

Overview:
These proverbs emphasize the importance of choosing wise companions, the consequences of righteousness and wickedness, and the long-term blessings of diligent and just living. They highlight how wisdom influences relationships, character, and generational outcomes, while injustice can hinder even the fruitfulness of the land.

Theological Themes:
• Influence of relationships on spiritual growth
• Righteous living leads to lasting blessing
• Justice and integrity in daily life

Key Verse:
Proverbs 13:20 – “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. How do relationships shape a person’s character?
   Answer: Close associations influence attitudes, decisions, and values. Walking with the wise leads to growth, while foolish companions lead to harm.
2. What does this passage teach about generational blessings?
   Answer: Righteous living can produce lasting benefits that extend beyond one’s lifetime, impacting future generations.
3. Why is justice highlighted alongside prosperity?
   Answer: True blessing is not only material but moral. Without justice, even abundance can be lost or misused.