Psalm 33 - This psalm is a song of praise to God and highlights His power and mercy. It can also be read as a summary of the book of Genesis, moving from creation to Babylon to the calling of God's people. It beautifully ends with hope.
Judges 3:7-31 - The pattern of Israel worshipping other gods and then calling out to Yahweh when they need help is a pattern that has continued to this day in our world. I recall a professor asking which of the judges was the most important. His answer: Shamgar. We have three stories of three judges but Shamgar gets only a verse. My professor's point: God is the one saving His people, the judges are the ones He uses to do it. So even if Ehud or Samson get cooler stories, the story isn't about the judges alone, but about God's work for His often rebellious people.
Acts 13:42-52 - When I think about Evangelism I often think of it as a two person interaction. There's the evangelist and the hearer and they will exchange words and thoughts. But in this story as with so many in Acts, there's also a third player. Paul and Barnabas' message was received positively by many, but they still had to contend with naysayers. There are those who will reject the Gospel and there are those who are receptive, but have other thoughts whispered in their ear. Even with this difficulty the Word is not without effect.
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