July 22nd, 25: Isaiah 36–37; Psalm 76; 1 Peter 1 : Daily Bible in a Year

Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we journey through scripture together, exploring its relevance and hope for our daily lives. On this 22nd day of July, join Hunter, your Bible reading coach, as we read from Isaiah 36 and 37, Psalm 76, and 1 Peter 1. Today’s episode takes us through the dramatic threats against Jerusalem, Hezekiah’s prayerful response in the face of overwhelming odds, and God’s miraculous deliverance. We’ll reflect on finding strength amid trials and discover encouragement from Peter's letter, reminding us that even in challenging seasons, joy and the unshakable love of God await all who trust in Him. Settle in as we seek wisdom, comfort, and renewal for our souls together.

TODAY'S DEVOTION:

There are trials ahead, but there is strength for the trials, and joy beyond it. reflects on the certainty that we all face hard times—none are exempt, as life brings us troubles, losses, even seasons when God's presence feels distant or absent. In these moments, the natural response is to despair, to feel the weight of circumstances pressing in. The soul, like the walls around Jerusalem, can feel as though it's crumbling.

But the stories in today’s readings remind us: when trials come, we are not left without hope. Hezekiah, faced with threats and overwhelming odds, did not turn to alliances or manipulations, or give in to fear. Instead, he turned to God—laying before him the great burdens, the threats, and the uncertainties. He waited, and trusted, even as the temptation to abandon hope was real and strong.

The word through Isaiah came: the victory would come, but it would take time. It would be a process. The first year would be lean, on the edge of survival; the second, a bit easier, and then, in the third year, flourishing would come—roots would go down deep, and those who endured would see the fruitfulness and restoration of God. This is a pattern for us as well—trials are for a season, even when that season feels long. If we trust God in the waiting, letting Him carry our burdens, turning our hearts to Him instead of away, we find the strength we need for today—and the joy that is promised for tomorrow.

points out that it's easy for despair to have the loudest voice in the face of hardship. Yet the invitation from God is to let our roots grow down in the soil of His faithfulness—a reminder that even in seasons of suffering or confusion, God’s love and presence are not removed from us. Like David addressed his own soul in the Psalms—Why so downcast, O my soul? Have faith in God—we are invited to speak truth to our own hearts, to keep showing up, opening ourselves again to God’s promises.

Living in this way forms and shapes us. It makes us resilient, able to flourish in whatever season comes, anchored in God's steadfast love and faithfulness. This is the prayer for today: that our souls would receive strength for today’s trial, and have hope for the joy to come. That even in our emptiness, surrender, and weakness, we are being filled, strengthened, and united with Christ, where our true joy is found.

That’s a prayer has for his soul, for his family, and for you. May it be so.