Every study, classified.

Is “Silence from God Means He’s Displeased” in the Bible?

The Ice Age: A Creationist Perspective

Scripture, creation science, and the Book of Job reveal how the Ice Age fits the biblical timeline and affirms God’s Word after the Flood.

What Should I Say to a Grieving Family? A Compassionate Christian Guide

Few moments leave us feeling as uncertain as standing face-to-face with someone who has just lost a loved one. Words feel inadequate. Silence feels awkward. And many people walk away replaying the moment in their minds, wondering if they said the wrong thing—or didn’t say enough. If you’ve ever asked, “What should I say to […]

What Happens at a Graveside Service? A Gentle Christian Guide to the Final Committal

For many people, the graveside service is the most difficult part of a funeral. The sanctuary service may feel familiar, but standing beside an open grave can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and emotionally heavy. Questions often swirl quietly in grieving hearts: What will happen? How long will it last? What should I do? What should I […]

What Did an Ancient Hebrew Funeral Look Like? A Biblical Guide to Death, Burial, and Hope

When modern families walk through a funeral home, many assume they are participating in something ancient—timeless, even biblical. Yet much of what we call a “traditional funeral” would have been unfamiliar to Abraham, David, or even Jesus Himself. To understand God’s design for death, mourning, and hope, we must return to Scripture and ask a […]

Daily Diamonds – Spiritual Disciplines: The Discipline of Gratitude in Suffering

Key Verse: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV) The Discipline of Gratitude in Suffering Gratitude in suffering is not denial of pain—it is defiance of despair. The discipline of thanksgiving when life hurts reveals mature faith that trusts God’s […]

Intercession in Scripture – Genesis 18:16–33

As the meal beneath the terebinth tree ended, the tone of the story shifted. The Lord, who had shared bread with Abraham, now shared His burden. Fellowship moved from the table to intercession. What follows is one of the most intimate conversations between God and man in the entire Old Testament — the pleading of […]

Daily Diamonds – Spiritual Disciplines: The Discipline of Bearing Burdens

Key Verse: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2 (ESV) The Discipline of Bearing Burdens Bearing burdens is love with sleeves rolled up. It is entering another’s pain and helping lift what they cannot carry alone. To bear a burden is to share a heart. Christ carried our […]

When Faith Falters – Genesis 16

Old Testament De-scriptions do not equal Pre-scription. Polygamy is not God’s plan. Culture must not drive convictions. Marriage between one man and one woman. 🔗 Genesis 2:24 Echoed by Jesus and Paul Creation Foundation Genesis 2:24 (ESV): “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they […]

Sermon: I Know My Redeemer Lives

Text: Job 19:23–27 📖 Scripture Reading “Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! Oh that with an iron pen and lead they were engraved in the rock forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. And after my […]

The “Friends” of Job

Job 2:11–13; selected passages from Job 4–32 🔍 Introduction Job’s three friends—Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite—entered the story with good intentions. They came to “sympathize with him and comfort him” (Job 2:11). But their speeches became a source of wounding instead of healing. Later, a fourth figure, Elihu, appears (Job […]

Job 1:1–2:10 – Faith Tested in the Furnace

1️⃣ Job’s Piety – His Character Before the Crisis (Job 1:1–5) ESV: “There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.” KJV: “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; […]

The Fruits of Fear: What True Reverence Produces

Post 3 – The Fear of the Lord Series   🌿 Introduction: Fear That Bears Fruit The fear of the Lord is not a passive belief—it is a powerful motivator and a spiritual fertilizer. Where holy fear is present, good things grow. Wisdom takes root. Pride is humbled. Sin is hated. Obedience becomes natural. A […]

The “Wildness” of God

What if the reason your walk with God feels safe, stale, or scripted… is because you’ve forgotten He’s not tame? Rich Mullins once said, “God is a wild man.” That phrase stops you in your tracks, doesn’t it? It’s not something you hear in a quiet Sunday school classroom. But it’s true—and it’s deeply biblical. […]

Faith That Works – James 5:7-12 – Post 18

James 5:7–12 – Patience in Suffering James 5:7–12 (ESV) – “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming […]

The Breath of God

The Breath of God From the opening lines of Genesis to the birth of the Church, Scripture reveals a God who brings life not merely by command, but by breath. Wherever the Spirit of God breathes, chaos gives way to creation, death yields to life, and the ordinary becomes holy. Introduction: Life Begins When God Breathes The Bible presents God not as a distant force, but as a living presence who breathes life into what is empty, broken, and dead. The breath of God is more than air—it is the active presence of the Holy Spirit, moving, hovering, empowering, and renewing. From creation to new birth, from Scripture to salvation, God’s breath marks the beginning of life and the continuation of spiritual vitality. Where God breathes, something changes. 🌊 God Breathed Over the Waters — Creation’s First Stirring Genesis 1:2 (ESV) “The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” The opening scene of Scripture is not orderly—it is chaotic. The Hebrew expression behind “without form and void” conveys emptiness, disorder, and unshaped potential. Yet hovering over this chaos is the Spirit of God. The Hebrew word ruach means spirit, breath, or wind. Creation does not begin with machinery or mechanics, but with movement. God’s breath brings readiness before God’s word brings light. Psalm 33:6 (ESV) “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host.” Creation is not cold or mechanical. It is intimate. God breathes, and life emerges. This is not only cosmic—it is deeply personal. The same Spirit still hovers over broken hearts, disordered lives, and empty souls, preparing them for renewal. 🫁 God Breathed into Man — The Gift of Life Genesis 2:7 (ESV) “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” Humanity begins with divine breath. God does not merely speak man into existence—He stoops and breathes into him. Job 33:4 (ESV) “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” We are dust, yet we bear the image of God. Life itself is a gift sustained by His breath. Yet sin fractured this life, leaving humanity spiritually dead even while biologically alive. Ephesians 2:1 (ESV) “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…” God would have to breathe again. 👶 God Breathed at the Incarnation — Overshadowed by the Spirit Luke 1:35 (ESV) “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.” The Spirit who hovered over creation now overshadows Mary. A new creation begins—not from dust, but from divine breath forming flesh. John 1:14 (ESV) “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Jesus is the new Adam, conceived by the Spirit, filled with the Spirit, led by the Spirit, and obedient to the Father in the power of the Spirit. Isaiah 11:2 (ESV) “And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him…” The incarnation is the breath of God bringing redemption into human history. 🕯️ God Breathed at the Resurrection — Life from Death Romans 8:11 (ESV) “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you…” The resurrection is not merely power—it is breath. The grave could not hold Christ because the Spirit of God breathed life again. 1 Peter 3:18 (ESV) “Being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.” After rising, Jesus breathes on His disciples. John 20:22 (ESV) “And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’” The breath that raised Christ now fills His people. 📖 God Breathed the Word — Inspired Scripture 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) “All Scripture is breathed out by God…” The Word of God is not merely inspired—it is exhaled by God Himself. 2 Peter 1:21 (ESV) “Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” To read Scripture is to inhale the breath of God. It convicts, revives, corrects, and renews. John 6:63 (ESV) “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.” 💨 God Breathed Life into Believers — The New Birth John 3:6–8 (ESV) “That which is born of the Spirit is spirit… The wind blows where it wishes…” Salvation is not moral improvement—it is spiritual rebirth. 1 Peter 1:23 (ESV) “You have been born again… through the living and abiding word of God.” The Spirit breathes through the Word to awaken dead hearts. 🔥 God Breathed Life into the Church — Pentecost Acts 2:2 (ESV) “And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind…” The Church was born in breath and fire—not organization. Acts 1:8 (ESV) “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” The same breath that raised Christ now propels His Church. 🌬️ The Sound of His Breath — Whisper or Wind 1 Kings 19:12 (ESV) “And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.” Sometimes the Spirit roars. Sometimes He whispers. Always He speaks with purpose. 🪞 Personal Application: Has God Breathed on You? Has He stirred your chaos into order? Has He breathed life into your dust? Has His Word awakened your heart? Has His Spirit made you new? If not—ask Him. He is still breathing. 🌬️ Final Word: Yield to the Wind John 3:8 (ESV) “The wind blows where it wishes…” You cannot control the Spirit—but you can yield. Raise your sail. Make room. Come, Holy Spirit. Breathe again. 📦 Continue Learning Doctrinal: Knowing God: His Almighty Attributes and Character Teaching: Under His Wings Devotional: A Heart That Gives No matter where you are reading from we welcome you to Bible-Alive. We hope that you will continue to explore our resources and find the Biblical answers you are searching for. Simply visit our home page to link to hundreds of studies, series, and devotionals. In the love of Christ. Barry.

Finishing Well

🏁 Finishing Well: Faithful, Failing, Fighting 👑 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 Finishing well is not automatic. It doesn’t happen by accident or through good intentions. It is the result of steady, daily decisions to trust God, surrender your will, and […]

Set Apart: Lust and Sexual Fantasizing — Sins of the Mind and Heart

Key Scripture: Matthew 5:28 “But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” — Matthew 5:28 (ESV) 🧠 Hidden Sins, Real Consequences Some sins are public—easy to see and call out. Others are private, festering below the surface, destroying from […]

Set Apart: What the Bible Teaches About Sexual Immorality

Why does the Bible speak so often—and so strongly—about sexual immorality? Because nothing threatens the soul, the body, and the witness of a believer quite like unchecked sexual sin. And nothing speaks more loudly of holiness, healing, and hope than a life set apart for God. This series explores, one by one, the major forms […]

The Bible and Mental Health: OCD — Trapped in Thought

🧩 The Bible and Mental Health: OCD — Trapped in Thought “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV When the Thoughts Won’t Stop Some people wrestle with demons in dreams. Others […]

The Bible and Mental Health: Trauma and PTSD — When the Past Keeps Hurting

“He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3 KJV Introduction: Wounds That Don’t Bleed Some pain never scabs over. Some memories play on repeat. Trauma doesn’t always show up in scars or casts — it often hides in silence, sleeplessness, shame, and sudden tears. It can feel like a […]

Bible Pronouns: Seniors

They Shall Still Bear Fruit – God’s Purpose for Seniors From the series: Biblical Pronouns – Who Does God Say That I Am? “They still bear fruit in old age; they are ever full of sap and green.” – Psalm 92:14 (ESV) A Life of Ongoing Purpose We live in a culture that idolizes youth […]

Tough Questions part 4

What Does the Bible Really Say About Mental Health? The Questions We Keep Asking – Post 4 of 10 “Does God care about anxiety, depression, trauma, or emotional pain?” For generations, mental health has been a taboo topic in the church. Some believe faith is the only remedy. Others avoid the issue entirely. But Scripture […]

Tough Questions part 1

Why Does God Allow Suffering and Evil? The Questions We Keep Asking – Post 1 of 10 “Where is God when it hurts?” Few questions strike the heart more deeply. Pain is universal. Suffering is personal. Whether it’s cancer, war, betrayal, injustice, or loss—we’ve all cried out: “Why, God?” This post explores one of life’s […]

The Faker Meets His Maker 2

Deception and Division – Jacob Steals the Blessing The story of Jacob stealing Esau’s blessing is a turning point in his journey. This act of deception showcases Jacob’s willingness to manipulate and cheat for personal gain, setting off a series of consequences that divide his family. Yet, through these events, God’s sovereign plan unfolds. In […]

Putting to Death What Is Earthly in Us: A Biblical Call to Purity

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul offers powerful guidance for the Christian life. Colossians 3:5 serves as a critical reminder to believers: “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:5). In a world that offers constant temptations, this verse calls […]

The Preaching of Jesus – Kingdom Foundations

Introduction: The Kingdom principles Jesus preached in the Sermon on the Mount form the essential foundation for a disciple’s life. These teachings, found in Matthew 5-7 and paralleled in Luke 6:17-49, emphasize qualities like humility, righteousness, sincere worship, trust in God, and wise living. In Luke 6:48, Jesus compares these foundations to a house built […]

The Threefold Will of God

Understanding God’s will does not require guesswork or anxiety. Scripture reveals God’s will in three harmonious ways—His sovereign rule over all things, His revealed truth in Scripture, and His personal guidance for each believer—inviting us to walk with confidence, obedience, and trust.

The Sovereignty of God

God’s sovereignty is inseparable from His authority. He has all authority in the dealings of every human being from the beginning. He holds the power from the creation of each totally unique human being until their death. His passionate desire is for His creation to come under His loving and caring control. Scriptural Proof of […]

Good Grief

In the midst of change or loss, often we are faced with an emotional flood of feelings. Grief and saddness can overwhelm us. Often the words of others leave us uncomforted and even seem shallow. How can we process our loss in a biblical way? As we search for answers to our hurt and grief, […]

Knowing God: A 16 Week Study in Theology

Week 1: The Bible: God’s Word Revealed – Topic: Understanding the nature and authority of the Bible as God’s inspired Word.– Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Psalm 119:105, Hebrews 4:12. – Discussion: What does it mean for the Bible to be inspired by God? How does its authority impact our beliefs and actions? Week 2: The […]

Week 2: Knowing God: His Almighty Attributes and Character

When God revealed Himself to Moses, He did not define Himself by comparison, description, or limitation. He revealed Himself as self-existent, eternal, and unchanging. God depends on nothing outside Himself. He simply is.

Week 1: Knowing God: His Word is Absolute Authority

“These two God has married and will never part: dust on the Bible and drought in the heart.” The Foundation of All Theology Every serious study of theology must begin with one foundational question: How does God speak? The Christian answer is clear — God has spoken through His Word. If Scripture is not authoritative, […]

I Know The Wind Blows

‭John 3:8 ESV‬ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit. When I was a young man, I had the privilege of being a part of a church […]

Group Bible Study Overcoming the World through Faith: 1 John 5:16-21

In this final installment of our study in 1 John, we’ll explore 1 John 5:16-21, focusing on overcoming the world through faith and the assurance of our salvation in Christ. Scripture: 1 John 5:16-21 Verse 16: John addresses the concept of sin leading to death and distinguishes between sin that leads to death and sin […]

Eternal Perspective: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (ESV)

Verse 17:“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,” Verse 18:“as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 1. What does […]

Unforgettable People: Exemplifying Timeless Virtues

‭‭Proverbs 10:7 ESV‬‬ “The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.” Philippians 1:3 ESV “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,” How do you want to be remembered? What story do you want to tell? When we look back at certain individuals, who stands […]

What is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?

Acts 11:15-18 (ESV): And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ If then God gave the same gift to them […]

Crying Out for Mercy: The Power of Intercession

Leave a Comment / Daily Bible / By Barry Coker Exodus 32:11-14 (ESV):“O Lord, why does your wrath burn hot against your people, whom you have brought out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians say, ‘With evil intent did he bring them out, to […]