WE SHALL NOT DIE - Reading With the People of God #17Sample

Rejecting Comfort, Embracing the Kingdom

Today’s reading gives us a striking perspective from King Hezekiah. When told that his children and grandchildren would one day be carried into exile in Babylon, he responded that the word was “good,” since it wouldn’t affect him personally. At first, his response feels shockingly selfish. But if we’re honest, it’s easy to fall into a similar mindset in our own day—content to enjoy peace and security now, without considering the impact of our faithfulness (or lack thereof) on future generations.

Yet Scripture calls us to something greater. As Jesus taught us to pray, we are to long for and work toward God’s kingdom coming “on earth as it is in heaven.” That’s what we’ve seen so vividly in Acts—the Spirit-empowered church living as witnesses of Christ, advancing His kingdom in a broken world. And the story isn’t over. We are part of that same mission today.

I love that Acts closes with Paul still preaching, even under house arrest. He quotes Isaiah to remind us that some will resist and refuse to understand because of hardened hearts (Acts 28:25–27). But notice Paul’s response—not discouragement, but boldness. He continues,

“proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance” (Acts 28:31, ESV).

As we conclude this plan, may we reject the Hezekiah mindset of self-centered comfort and instead embrace Paul’s mindset of courageous, unhindered gospel proclamation. The mission continues, and by God’s grace, we get to be part of it.

Let’s step forward into the next part of our journey through Isaiah and Habakkuk with hearts ready to listen, to hope, and to live for Christ’s kingdom.

Primer contributed by Logan Beardsley, Lead Pastor, Cornerstone Community Church.

The Journey Continues: Stay in God’s Word with Us
At Cornerstone Church of Chowchilla, we’ve seen how God uses His Word to change lives. Over the past 61 days, we’ve witnessed the life of Jesus, the birth of the church, and the bold faith of the prophets—and we believe God is just getting started.

This isn’t just a reading plan; it’s a journey. A journey of people learning, growing, and living out the truth of Scripture together.

Part 2 of We Shall Not Die will take us deeper into Habakkuk and Isaiah, while also guiding us through Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, and Peter—letters full of wisdom and encouragement for following Christ today.

Don’t stop now—keep walking with us.
👉 [Continue the Journey Here!]