诗篇 133

1 看哪，弟兄和睦同居是何等地善，何等地美！ 2 这好比那贵重的油浇在亚伦的头上，流到胡须，又流到他的衣襟。 3 又好比黑门的甘露降在锡安山，因为在那里有耶和华所命定的福，就是永远的生命。

2026-07-10

蜜蜂间距

“都恒心遵守使徒的教训，彼此交接、擘饼、祈祷。” - 使徒行传 2:42

你听过“个人空间”吗？这指的是环绕个人身体周围需要留有的空间，好让这人能够与人共处，并一起生活。个人空间的大小视乎文化、环境、与人的关系、和个人选择。平均来说，西方人士的个人空间大约是四围有两尺左右，你认为这个标准适合你，令你感到舒适吗？在某些文化中，这个空间或许会是小一点。

你曾听过“蜜蜂间距”吗？指的是蜜蜂在蜂巢的窝与窝之间留出的特定空间，这的大小约是1／4至3／4吋（6-9mm）之间。养蜂的资料指出，这个空间技巧地平衡了“有足够空间通行但又不会浪费地方”的要求。蜜蜂间距容许两只蜜蜂可以背靠背自由走动，让数以千计的蜜蜂可以一同紧密地生活和工作。蜂胶会填满较小的空间，而较大的空间则堆塞了没有用途的“赘蜡”。

蜜蜂最适合在狭窄挤拥的环境中一起生活，这是它们的本性，而不是它们的选择。

在决定个人空间时，人们有很多选择。在《使徒行传》2章42节中，圣灵引领我们进入一个“美好和舒适”的空间，让我们以跟随基督者的身份一同茁壮成长。恳请你选择，并委身在这个美好的空间，与其他人一同过生活。

祷告

圣灵啊，求你引领我们与弟兄姊妹在基督里合一。愿我们忠心地在你里面一起成长，好叫别人也能认识你。阿们。

Psalm 133

FRIDAY, JULY 10

BEE SPACE

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. —Acts 2:42

Have you heard of “personal space”? It’s described as the amount of space a person feels is needed in order to relate to and live well with others. Personal space can differ by culture, situation, relationship, and personal preference. For an average Westerner, personal space is about two feet on all sides. Does this seem right and healthy to you? In some other cultures, the distance can be a bit less.

Have you ever heard of “bee space”? Specifically, that is the space honeybees leave between combs in a hive. It’s about 1/4 to 3/8 inch (6 - 9 mm)—a delicate balance of “enough room to move freely but not too much empty space,” according to sources on beekeeping. Bee space allows two bees to pass each other back-to- back and makes it possible for thousands of bees to live and work closely together. Smaller spaces are filled with propolis (“bee glue”), and larger spaces are packed with unneeded “burr comb.”

Bees are at their best for life in the hive when they are in close quarters with each other. It’s a matter of instinct, not choice.

People have more choices in defining personal space. In Acts 2:42 the Spirit of God draws us into a “good and pleasant” space for being and thriving together as followers of Christ. Choose and commit yourself to living in this good space with each other.

Holy Spirit, guide us to live in unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ. May we grow together faithfully in you so that others may come to know you also. Amen.

哥林多前书 3:5-15

5 亚波罗算什么？保罗算什么？无非是执事，照主所赐给他们各人的，引导你们相信。 6 我栽种了，亚波罗浇灌了，唯有神叫他生长。 7 可见栽种的算不得什么，浇灌的也算不得什么，只在那叫他生长的神。 8 栽种的和浇灌的都是一样，但将来各人要照自己的工夫得自己的赏赐。 9 因为我们是与神同工的，你们是神所耕种的田地，所建造的房屋。 10 我照神所给我的恩，好像一个聪明的工头立好了根基，有别人在上面建造，只是各人要谨慎怎样在上面建造。 11 因为那已经立好的根基就是耶稣基督，此外没有人能立别的根基。 12 若有人用金、银、宝石、草、木、禾秸在这根基上建造， 13 各人的工程必然显露；因为那日子要将它表明出来，有火发现，这火要试验各人的工程怎样。 14 人在那根基上所建造的工程若存得住，他就要得赏赐； 15 人的工程若被烧了，他就要受亏损，自己却要得救，虽然得救，乃像从火里经过的一样。

2026-07-09

负责建造的蜜蜂

“我们是与神同工的。你们是神所耕种的田地，所建造的房屋。” - 哥林多前书 3:9

蜜蜂擅长建造，它们在巢里建造数以百计的六角形蜂窝，这些蜂窝就是蜂巢的基本组件。蜂窝奇妙的几何设计，能够提供最大的贮藏空间，同时只需要最小量的蜂蜡来维持坚稳的结构。蜂蜡是花蜜、花粉、唾沫和工蜂的其他分泌组成的巧妙混合物，蜂蜡是蜂窝的墙的建筑材料，使墙的形状不会受到冷或热的影响。这些蜂窝主要是用来贮藏蜂蜜，有些用来贮藏花粉和花蜜，也有些用作卵子和幼虫的育儿室。

建造蜂巢归功于蜜蜂紧密的合作，在建造过程中，每一只蜜蜂都尽上它们应该负的职责。相比之下，我们人类在建造彼此关顾的社群时面对的挣扎，显得非常可悲。藉着重建人与父神、和与其他人的关系，耶稣改变了我们错误的建造习惯，可是，我们时常都没有实践祂教导我们的做法。例如，基督徒社群不但没有以关怀、和谐、具建设性的态度来谦卑的彼此服侍，反而因争竞、比较、彼此排斥和漠视而分了心。

你是与神同工，建造一个彼此相交的社群吗？神呼召你用什么方法，从单顾自己，改变为与其他人一起服事祂呢？

祷告

神啊，感谢你，因你在基督里为我们立了稳固的根基。在我们藉事奉来建造基督的身体时，求你以你的灵引领我们彼此关顾。阿们。

1 Corinthians 3:5-15

THURSDAY, JULY 9

BUILDER BEES

We are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. —1 Corinthians 3:9

Honeybees are great builders. Inside their hive they make honeycombs consisting of hundreds of six-sided cells. These are the basic building blocks of beehives. The amazing geometry of these cells maximizes storage space while minimizing the wax needed for a stable structure. Beeswax is an ingenious blend of nectar, pollen, saliva, and other ingredients produced by worker bees to form the walls of the cells, which keep their shape in both heat and cold. While these cells are used mainly to store honey and some pollen and nectar, some of the cells are also used as nurseries for eggs and larvae.

Hive building is a tribute to the bees’ ability to work well together. Each bee takes up its role in the building process.

A tragic contrast to this is our struggle as human beings to build caring communities. Jesus came to reverse our faulty construction habits by reconnecting people to his Father and to one another. Yet we often fail to practice what he taught us. In place of humbly serving with each other in caring, harmonious, constructive ways, for example, the Christian community gets distracted by competing and comparing and by excluding and neglecting one another.

Are you a co-worker with God in building a community with others? In what ways is God calling you from self-service to serving him with others?

Thank you, God, for the firm foundation you have made for us in Christ. By your Spirit, direct us to care for each other as we serve to build up the body of Christ. Amen.

哥林多前书 12:12-31

12 就如身子是一个，却有许多肢体，而且肢体虽多，仍是一个身子；基督也是这样。 13 我们不拘是犹太人，是希腊人，是为奴的，是自主的，都从一位圣灵受洗，成了一个身体，饮于一位圣灵。 14 身子原不是一个肢体，乃是许多肢体。 15 设若脚说：“我不是手，所以不属乎身子”，它不能因此就不属乎身子。 16 设若耳说：“我不是眼，所以不属乎身子”，它也不能因此就不属乎身子。 17 若全身是眼，从哪里听声呢？若全身是耳，从哪里闻味呢？ 18 但如今，神随自己的意思把肢体俱各安排在身上了。 19 若都是一个肢体，身子在哪里呢？ 20 但如今肢体是多的，身子却是一个。 21 眼不能对手说：“我用不着你。”头也不能对脚说：“我用不着你。” 22 不但如此，身上肢体人以为软弱的，更是不可少的； 23 身上肢体我们看为不体面的，越发给它加上体面；不俊美的，越发得着俊美； 24 我们俊美的肢体，自然用不着装饰。但神配搭这身子，把加倍的体面给那有缺欠的肢体， 25 免得身上分门别类，总要肢体彼此相顾。 26 若一个肢体受苦，所有的肢体就一同受苦；若一个肢体得荣耀，所有的肢体就一同快乐。 27 你们就是基督的身子，并且各自做肢体。 28 神在教会所设立的：第一是使徒，第二是先知，第三是教师，其次是行异能的，再次是得恩赐医病的，帮助人的，治理事的，说方言的。 29 岂都是使徒吗？岂都是先知吗？岂都是教师吗？岂都是行异能的吗？ 30 岂都是得恩赐医病的吗？岂都是说方言的吗？岂都是翻方言的吗？ 31 你们要切切地求那更大的恩赐。我现今把最妙的道指示你们。

2026-07-08

仍是一个巢

“就如身子是一个，却有许多肢体，而且肢体虽多，仍是一个身子，基督也是这样。” - 哥林多前书 12:12

根据统计蜜蜂的人估计，每一个巢里大约有20,000到60,000只蜜蜂，它们都属于同一个巢。基本上蜂巢里有三类蜜蜂：蜂后、工蜂和雄蜂，它们都属于同一个巢。出于本能，所有的蜜蜂都在一个互相依赖的群体中发挥作用，它们就像一个有生命的个体。

哥林多的基督徒估计大约有40至150人，他们的表现并不“合一”。这个多种族的初信群体，包括受过高深教育和劳工阶级的人，有富裕也有贫穷的，他们很未能彼此关顾，也难以表达神的爱。保罗写信给他们，形容他们是一群分裂、我行我素、自私，又骄傲地嘎嘎作声的信徒。说得好听一点，他们的表现就是众多个体，却要挣扎成为一体。

同样，今日的世界并没有尝试鼓励我们去相信，并显明我们是一个有生命、互相依赖的群体(一个身体)。个人主义、特权、拥有和自我满足，往往成为个人的敬拜的偶像，这些表现是成为一体最大的障碍。

惟有“在基督里”，跟随基督的人才能成为一体。这不是出于天性的表现，需要心灵上的改变，也需要谦卑努力实践爱心。你是否愿意祷告，谦卑地去爱，并与其他基督的肢体一起去事奉吗？

祷告

主耶稣，求你感动我们每一个人朝着你的肢体合一努力。在我们与你一同事奉时，求你改变我们的心，并赐我们能力去爱和建立他人。阿们。

1 Corinthians 12:12-31

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8

ONE HIVE

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. —1 Corinthians 12:12

People who count honeybees estimate that there are 20,000 to 60,000 bees in any given hive. Yet there is one hive. The hive has three basic kinds of bees: the queen, workers, and drones. Yet there is one hive. All of the bees work together by instinct to function as an interdependent community, like a living organism.

The Christ-followers at Corinth, estimated to be about 40 to 150 people, were not acting as “one.” This multiethnic group of recent converts included a mixture of educated and working-class people, rich and poor, and they struggled to care for and show God’s love to one another. The letter Paul wrote to them describes a divided, individualistic, selfish, and proud gaggle of believers. At best, they revealed that they were many parts struggling to become one body.

Similarly, our world today does little to encourage us to believe and act like we are an organic, interdependent community— one body. Individualism, privilege, possessions, and self-gratification are often the altars at which people worship. These behaviors make being one body most difficult.

Christ-followers can be one body only “in Christ.” This is not instinctual. It takes heart change and the hard and humble work of love. Will you pray and work humbly to love and serve with others who make up the body of Christ?

Lord Jesus, inspire us all to work toward the unity of your one body. Change our hearts and energize us to love and build up others as we serve with you. Amen.

约翰福音 9:1-11

1 耶稣过去的时候，看见一个人生来是瞎眼的。 2 门徒问耶稣说：“拉比，这人生来是瞎眼的，是谁犯了罪？是这人呢，是他父母呢？” 3 耶稣回答说：“也不是这人犯了罪，也不是他父母犯了罪，是要在他身上显出神的作为来。 4 趁着白日，我们必须做那差我来者的工；黑夜将到，就没有人能做工了。 5 我在世上的时候，是世上的光。” 6 耶稣说了这话，就吐唾沫在地上，用唾沫和泥抹在瞎子的眼睛上， 7 对他说：“你往西罗亚池子里去洗。”（“西罗亚”翻出来就是“奉差遣”。）他去一洗，回头就看见了。 8 他的邻舍和那素常见他是讨饭的，就说：“这不是那从前坐着讨饭的人吗？” 9 有人说：“是他。”又有人说：“不是，却是像他。”他自己说：“是我。” 10 他们对他说：“你的眼睛是怎样开的呢？” 11 他回答说：“有一个人名叫耶稣，他和泥抹我的眼睛，对我说：‘你往西罗亚池子去洗。’我去一洗，就看见了。”

2026-07-07

忙碌的蜜蜂

“趁着白日，我们必须作那差我来者的工；黑夜将到，就没有人能作工了。我在世上的时候，是世上的光。” - 约翰福音 9:4-5

我最喜欢在日落时分来到我的蜂巢，那时采花粉花蜜的工蜂正返回巢中。如果我细心看，我会见到它们后腿上满满的花粉袋，里面装着它们劳苦作工的收获，真是奇妙啊！这些工蜂从日出便忙于工作，尽量把握机会去收集花粉和花蜜。黑夜到了—黑暗和寒冷的冬天终于来到，便再没有工作的机会了。蜜蜂会“趁着白日”做工和制造蜂蜜。

在《约翰福音》9章中，耶稣说祂是“世上的光”。祂警告门徒，有一种黑暗将会来到。在这章经文中，在面对越来越严重的抗拒，和迫在眉睫的黑暗时，耶稣叫一个瞎子的眼睛重见光明。耶稣说：“趁着白日，我们必须作那差我来者的工。”你有没有留意到，耶稣说祂所作的工，门徒也有份参与呢？

《约翰福音》9章余下的故事变得非常阴暗。今天，我们也看到同样的阴暗笼罩着我们周围的世界。然而，耶稣是世界的光，仍然继续去叫瞎子重见光明。

在每天往来走动时，你有哪些机会为主发光呢？你可以怎样把握机会去传扬耶稣的光？

祷告

主耶稣，求你住在我们里面，藉着我们把你的光带到这黑暗的世界。在我们把握现有的机会时，愿你良善和真理的果子能明亮地照耀出来。奉你的名祈求，阿们。

Jesus, thank you for being the good shepherd. Thank you for rescuing us from the curse of sin and death. Guide us to pray for and work with others whom you have come to rescue as well. In your name, Amen. John 9:1-11

TUESDAY, JULY 7

BUSY BEES

“As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” —John 9:4-5

My favorite time at our beehives is around sunset. Gatherer bees are coming back to the hive. If I look closely, I can see the bulging pollen packs on their hind legs, holding the fruit of their labor. Amazing! These worker bees have been busy since sunrise—making the most of their opportunities to gather pollen and nectar. With darkness coming—and eventually the dark and cold of winter— the opportunity to work will end. Bees work and make honey “as long as it is day.”

In John 9, Jesus talks about being “the light of the world,” and he warns his disciples about a kind of darkness that is coming. In this chapter we see Jesus bring light to a blind man’s eyes in the face of growing opposition and looming darkness. Jesus says,” As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me.” And did you notice that Jesus includes his followers in the work he is doing?

The rest of the story in John 9 gets very dark. We can observe a similar darkness in the world around us as well. Yet Jesus, the light of the world, keeps working to bring sight to the blind.

In your coming and going, what are your opportunities to shine? How can you make the most of your opportunities to spread the light of Jesus?

Lord Jesus, live in us and through us to bring your light into the darkness of this world. May the fruit of your goodness and truth shine brightly as we make the most of the opportunities we have. In your name, Amen.

约翰福音 10:7-18

7 所以，耶稣又对他们说：“我实实在在地告诉你们：我就是羊的门。 8 凡在我以先来的都是贼，是强盗，羊却不听他们。 9 我就是门，凡从我进来的，必然得救，并且出入得草吃。 10 盗贼来，无非要偷窃、杀害、毁坏；我来了，是要叫羊得生命，并且得的更丰盛。 11 “我是好牧人，好牧人为羊舍命。 12 若是雇工，不是牧人，羊也不是他自己的，他看见狼来，就撇下羊逃走，狼抓住羊，赶散了羊群。 13 雇工逃走，因他是雇工，并不顾念羊。 14 我是好牧人，我认识我的羊，我的羊也认识我， 15 正如父认识我，我也认识父一样；并且我为羊舍命。 16 我另外有羊，不是这圈里的，我必须领它们来，它们也要听我的声音，并且要合成一群，归一个牧人了。 17 我父爱我，因我将命舍去，好再取回来。 18 没有人夺我的命去，是我自己舍的。我有权柄舍了，也有权柄取回来，这是我从我父所受的命令。”

2026-07-06

其他种类的蜂

“我另外有羊，不是这圈里的，我必须领他们来，他们也要听我的声音，并且要合成一群，归一个牧人了。” - 约翰福音 10:16

作为一个养蜜蜂的人，我的心胸变窄了。虽然我知道还有很多品种的蜂，例如熊蜂、汗蜂和木匠蜂等等，但我独是偏爱蜜蜂。最近我发现还有一种蜂名叫“泥瓦匠”蜂，它们用泥在峡窄的空间筑巢。事实上，全世界有超过20,000不同品种的蜂，真是令人难以置信！

这也可能触发我们的好奇心，想知道世界上究竟有多少个族群。世界上族群的人数，估计是在11,000到24,000之间，你知道吗？

耶稣知道世界上还有其他族群—就是在祂出生的本族以外的“另外的羊”。好牧人耶稣不能或不会因拯救了一个族群便感到满足；祂的到来是要把神的救恩赐给世界上所有的族群。

谈到蜜蜂时，我需要记着，神所创造的每一个品种的蜂都是宝贵的。当想到世人时，我们需要记着，每一个人都是照着神的形像被造的。耶稣的到来，是要从世上人类的每一个族群中拯救祂的儿女。

我们可以怎样行，来让别人知道神看他们为宝贵呢？

祷告

耶稣啊，感谢你做我们的好牧人，感谢你拯救我们脱离罪和死亡的咒诅。求你引领我们，也为那些你到来拯救的人祷告和与他们同工。奉你的名祈求，阿们。

John 10:7-18

MONDAY, JULY 6

OTHER BEES

“I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” —John 10:16

As a keeper of honeybees, I’ve grown a bit narrowminded. I’ve become partial to honeybees even though I know there are lots of others—like bumblebees, sweat bees, and carpenter bees—to name a few. Recently I learned there are also mason bees, which use mud to make nests is small cavities. There are actually over 20,000 species of bees all around the world. Mind-boggling!

This could lead us to wonder about people groups too. Estimates for the number of people groups in the world range from about 11,000 to 24,000. Did you know that?

Jesus knew about other people groups—"other sheep” besides the people into which he was born. Jesus, the good shepherd, could not and would not be content in rescuing just one people group. He came to bring God’s salvation to all the people groups throughout the world.

In my thinking about honeybees, I need to remember that all of the bees in God’s creation are treasured. And when it comes to people, we need to remember that each one is made in the image of God. Jesus came to rescue God’s children from every people group in the whole human race.

In what ways can we show others that they are precious in God’s sight?

Jesus, thank you for being the good shepherd. Thank you for rescuing us from the curse of sin and death. Guide us to pray for and work with others whom you have come to rescue as well. In your name, Amen.

以弗所书 6:18-20

18 靠着圣灵，随时多方祷告祈求，并要在此警醒不倦，为众圣徒祈求； 19 也为我祈求，使我得着口才，能以放胆开口讲明福音的奥秘—— 20 我为这福音的奥秘做了戴锁链的使者——并使我照着当尽的本分放胆讲论。

2026-07-05

为蜜蜂祷告

“靠着圣灵，随时多方祷告祈求。” - 以弗所书 6:18

我从小就学会一个简单的睡前祷文，这是一篇“跟着念”的祷文，是这样开始的：“现在我躺下睡觉……”懂得背诵以后，我便可以加上其他代祷事项－大多数是记念抱恙的家人或朋友、或其他的需要。从父母那里学习祷告是一个好的开始，我为此感恩。

在过去的年日，我的祷告范围增广和渐渐成熟，这是从其他人、祷告课程和阅读开始的，而阅读《圣经》中的祷告给我最深远的影响。然而我的祷告时常都是有限的，我仍然是一个正在学习祷告的小孩，一直都走在这条谦卑学习的路上。

在差不多走到生命的尽头时，使徒保罗劝喻基督徒要“随时多方祷告”。他说：“并要…为众圣徒祈求”，“也为我祈求”。当我在阅读一本书，里面有一个为“养殖蜜蜂”的祷告时，保罗这番话便涌上我的心头。回顾过去，在我照顾蜜蜂时，我往往忽略了祷告这一步。没有任何祷告是不重要的，这是圣灵教导我们当凡事祷告的新功课。

你有没有藉着圣灵祷告呢？你的祷告在哪些方面变得更成熟、更宽广呢？你受感动要为什么事情、哪些人祷告呢？

祷告

“求永生之主圣灵复兴我灵”。主啊，求你继续在我们生命中教导我们，认识你美善和完备的道。奉耶稣全能的名祷告，阿们。

Ephesians 6:18-20

SUNDAY, JULY 5

PRAY FOR BEES

Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. —Ephesians 6:18

As a child, I was taught to pray a simple bedtime prayer. It was a “repeat-after-me” prayer, and it started like this: “Now I lay me down to sleep . . .” After memorizing it, I was encouraged to add other requests— mostly for sick family members or friends or about other concerns. Learning to pray with a parent was a good start for which I am grateful.

Over the years, my prayers have expanded and matured by fits and starts through the examples of others, prayer courses, and readings—and most profoundly by prayers in the Bible. Still, my prayers are often limited. I am still a child learning to pray. It has been a humbling path.

Near the close of his life, Paul urged Christ-followers to pray “on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” “Keep on praying for all the Lord’s people,” he said, and “pray also for me.” These words came to mind while I was reading a book that included a prayer for the “Keeping of Bees.” Looking back, I realize that I’ve often overlooked this step in my caring for bees. No prayer is too small. Here is another lesson from the Spirit about praying on all occasions.

Are you praying in the Spirit? In what ways are your prayers maturing or being expanded? For what and whom are you being led to pray?

“Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on me.” Continue the good and perfect teaching of your Word in our lives, Lord. In the strong name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

创世记 3:1-19；罗马书 8:20-23

1 耶和华神所造的，唯有蛇比田野一切的活物更狡猾。蛇对女人说：“神岂是真说，不许你们吃园中所有树上的果子吗？” 2 女人对蛇说：“园中树上的果子我们可以吃， 3 唯有园当中那棵树上的果子，神曾说：‘你们不可吃，也不可摸，免得你们死。’” 4 蛇对女人说：“你们不一定死！ 5 因为神知道你们吃的日子眼睛就明亮了，你们便如神能知道善恶。” 6 于是女人见那棵树的果子好做食物，也悦人的眼目，且是可喜爱的，能使人有智慧，就摘下果子来吃了；又给她丈夫，她丈夫也吃了。 7 他们二人的眼睛就明亮了，才知道自己是赤身露体，便拿无花果树的叶子，为自己编做裙子。 8 天起了凉风，耶和华神在园中行走，那人和他妻子听见神的声音，就藏在园里的树木中，躲避耶和华神的面。 9 耶和华神呼唤那人，对他说：“你在哪里？” 10 他说：“我在园中听见你的声音，我就害怕，因为我赤身露体。我便藏了。” 11 耶和华说：“谁告诉你赤身露体呢？莫非你吃了我吩咐你不可吃的那树上的果子吗？” 12 那人说：“你所赐给我与我同居的女人，她把那树上的果子给我，我就吃了。” 13 耶和华神对女人说：“你做的是什么事呢？”女人说：“那蛇引诱我，我就吃了。” 14 耶和华神对蛇说：“你既做了这事，就必受咒诅，比一切的牲畜野兽更甚！你必用肚子行走，终身吃土。 15 我又要叫你和女人彼此为仇，你的后裔和女人的后裔也彼此为仇，女人的后裔要伤你的头，你要伤他的脚跟。” 16 又对女人说：“我必多多加增你怀胎的苦楚，你生产儿女必多受苦楚。你必恋慕你丈夫，你丈夫必管辖你。” 17 又对亚当说：“你既听从妻子的话，吃了我所吩咐你不可吃的那树上的果子，地必为你的缘故受咒诅，你必终身劳苦，才能从地里得吃的。 18 地必给你长出荆棘和蒺藜来，你也要吃田间的菜蔬。 19 你必汗流满面才得糊口，直到你归了土，因为你是从土而出的。你本是尘土，仍要归于尘土。” 20 因为受造之物服在虚空之下，不是自己愿意，乃是因那叫他如此的； 21 但受造之物仍然指望脱离败坏的辖制，得享神儿女自由的荣耀。 22 我们知道，一切受造之物一同叹息、劳苦，直到如今。 23 不但如此，就是我们这有圣灵初结果子的，也是自己心里叹息，等候得着儿子的名分，乃是我们的身体得赎。

2026-07-04

被咒诅的蜜蜂

“一切受造之物，一同叹息劳苦，直到如今。” - 罗马书 8:22

我们可能以为养殖蜜蜂应该是容易的事：购买蜜蜂安放在蜂巢里，然后让它们自由发展，对吗？但是有经验的养蜂人士会告诉你，养蜜蜂其实并不容易的。蜂巢小甲虫、蜂蟹蹒、蜡蛾和幼虫腐臭病，时常都会危害蜜蜂和它们的蜂巢。此外，它们也受到杀虫药、污染、失去栖息地、以及其他危害它们的事物的伤害。神美丽和谐的创造明显已经被破坏了，像其他受造物一样，蜜蜂也受到诅咒。蜜蜂需要帮助和复原。

在《圣经》其中一章最神奇和最惨痛的经文中，一个狡猾和虚伪的敌人悄悄溜进神美丽的园子里，企图颠覆神对祂的创造的意愿。人类被造的原意，是要反映神的良善的，竟然被引诱和玷污了。疾病和死亡从此便入侵我们的家园和心灵。除非有人到来拯救我们，不然这咒诅便会耗尽我们身体和灵魂的活力了。

我们和蜜蜂仍然活在世上，虽然都在劳苦叹息，但仍然好端端活着。这就是证明了神对我们和祂的创造，那不离不弃、强烈的爱。基督徒藉着耶稣基督的死和复活与祂联合，已经出死入生了。而我们也“有圣灵初结果子的，也是自己心里叹息，等候着…得赎。”咒诅已被逆转了。感谢神！

祷告

主耶稣，感谢你的到来，逆转罪恶和死亡的咒诅。惟愿我们在你里面的盼望加力给我们，叫我们能够耐心等候我们和整个创造得赎的日子。阿们。

Genesis 3:1-19; Romans 8:20-23

SATURDAY, JULY 4

CURSED BEES

The whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. —Romans 8:22

We might think that beekeeping should be easy: get some bees, put them in a hive, and let them do their thing, right? But a seasoned beekeeper will tell you that it’s never easy. Hive beetles, varroa mites, wax moths, and foul brood disease are some of the more common threats to bees and their hives. Pesticides, pollution, habitat loss, and other threats add to the mix. Clearly the beauty and harmony of God’s creation has been blighted. Honeybees are cursed along with the rest of creation. Bees need help and restoration.

In one of the most mysterious and tragic chapters of the Bible, a crafty and deceitful enemy slithers into God’s good garden to subvert God’s desires for his creation. Human beings—meant to reflect God’s goodness—are seduced and infected. Sickness and death invade our homes and hearts.

The curse saps life from our bodies and souls, unless someone will come to save us.

We and the bees are still here, groaning but alive and kicking. This is proof of God’s stubborn and strong love for us and for his whole creation. Christians are being brought from death to life by being united with Christ Jesus in his death and resurrection. And we, “who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our . . . redemption. . . .”

The curse is being reversed. Thanks be to God!

Thank you, Jesus, for coming to reverse the curse of sin and death. May our hope in you energize us to wait patiently for our and all of creation’s redemption. Amen.

哥林多后书 8:1-15

1 弟兄们，我把神赐给马其顿众教会的恩告诉你们， 2 就是他们在患难中受大试炼的时候，仍有满足的快乐，在极穷之间还格外显出他们乐捐的厚恩。 3 我可以证明他们是按着力量，而且也过了力量，自己甘心乐意地捐助， 4 再三地求我们，准他们在这供给圣徒的恩情上有份。 5 并且他们所做的，不但照我们所想望的，更照神的旨意，先把自己献给主，又归附了我们。 6 因此我劝提多，既然在你们中间开办这慈惠的事，就当办成了。 7 你们既然在信心、口才、知识、热心和待我们的爱心上，都格外显出满足来，就当在这慈惠的事上也格外显出满足来。 8 我说这话，不是吩咐你们，乃是藉着别人的热心试验你们爱心的实在。 9 你们知道我们主耶稣基督的恩典：他本来富足，却为你们成了贫穷，叫你们因他的贫穷可以成为富足。 10 我在这事上把我的意见告诉你们，是于你们有益；因为你们下手办这事，而且起此心意已经有一年了， 11 如今就当办成这事。既有愿做的心，也当照你们所有的去办成。 12 因为人若有愿做的心，必蒙悦纳，乃是照他所有的，并不是照他所无的。 13 我原不是要别人轻省、你们受累， 14 乃要均平。就是要你们的富余现在可以补他们的不足，使他们的富余将来也可以补你们的不足，这就均平了， 15 如经上所记：“多收的也没有余，少收的也没有缺。”

2026-07-03

两个蜂巢的故事

“你们……都格外显出满足来，就当在这慈惠的事上，也格外显出满足来。” - 哥林多后书 8:7

去年春天，我们把两个新的“蜂群”安放在蜂巢箱后，两个蜂群看起来都准备好茁壮成长了。过了几个星期，其中一个蜂巢似乎比另一个成长得比较好，但我们不担心，因为它们都仍然在成长和进步中。

夏天是蜜蜂积累和增加它们贮藏的蜂蜜的时间，我们不断把蜂箱加在那个较为强壮的巢里。相比之下，那个较弱的巢似乎失去活力了。夏天快要完结时，经过细心的视察，我们发觉那个较弱的巢的蜂后不见了！没有蜂后的蜂巢是不能生存下去的，因为她是唯一能够产卵来传宗接代的。这个巢死亡了，是因为我们疏忽、没有好好照顾它。

宣教牧者保罗留意到他服事的教会的长处和弱点。哥林多教会里跟随基督的人，有没有被保罗在今天这段经文中所说的比较刺伤呢？他们在许多方而都有好的表现，然而保罗却指出，他们在慈惠的事上，可以做得更好。忽略了慷慨供应主内弟兄姊妹的需要，是一个严重的错误，这样做会促使教会衰微的。

在今天，基督徒关心教会的衰微和解散，是一件好事。冷漠和吝啬极具破坏性。好消息是，当神的子民受到感动，“在这慈惠的事上，也格外显出满足来”时，信徒的群体便能茁壮成长的了。

祷告

主耶稣，你为了我们成为贫乏，好让我们能在你的恩典中得以富足。求你住在我们里面并使用我们，叫我们遵从你的教导，乐意去行慈惠的事。阿们。

2 Corinthians 8:1-15

FRIDAY, JULY 3

A TALE OF TWO HIVES

Since you excel in everything . . . see that you also excel in this grace of giving. —2 Corinthians 8:7

When we installed two new “nucs” of bees in our hive boxes last spring, both seemed ready to become strong colonies. After a few weeks, one hive seemed to be doing better than the other, but we were not worried. Both were still growing and improving.

During summer—when bees build up and increase their honey stores—we kept adding boxes to the stronger hive. By comparison, the weaker hive seemed to languish. A more careful inspection toward the end of summer revealed that the queen of the weaker hive was gone! A hive cannot survive without its queen, since she is the only bee that lays eggs to produce offspring. So our neglect in watching over that hive led to its death.

The missionary pastor Paul noticed strengths and weaknesses in the churches he served. Were the Christ-followers in Corinth somewhat stung by the comparison Paul made in today’s passage? They excelled in many things, but Paul had to point out that they could be more gracious in giving. Failing to give generously for the needs of brothers and sisters in Christ was a serious flaw that could lead to their decline.

Christians today do well to be concerned about the decline and disbanding of churches. Apathy and stinginess can be destructive. The good news is that when God’s people are stirred to “excel in the grace of giving,” the community of believers can thrive.

Lord Jesus, you became poor for our sake so that we might become rich in your grace. Live in and through us so that we may give graciously, as you have taught us. Amen.

诗篇 104:10-18

10 耶和华使泉源涌在山谷，流在山间， 11 使野地的走兽有水喝，野驴得解其渴。 12 天上的飞鸟在水旁住宿，在树枝上啼叫。 13 他从楼阁中浇灌山岭，因他作为的功效地就丰足。 14 他使草生长给六畜吃，使菜蔬发长供给人用，使人从地里能得食物。 15 又得酒能悦人心，得油能润人面，得粮能养人心。 16 佳美的树木，就是黎巴嫩的香柏树，是耶和华所栽种的，都满了汁浆。 17 雀鸟在其上搭窝，至于鹤，松树是它的房屋。 18 高山为野山羊的住所，岩石为沙番的藏处。

2026-07-02

为蜜蜂预备的家

“他从一本造出万族的人，住在全地上，并且预先定准他们的年限，和所住的疆界。” - 使徒行传 17:26

《诗篇》104篇的经文中的图画，描绘神为祂奇妙的创造物的一切供应。可是，环顾四周时，我们不难找到没有居所或饥饿的群众和其他生物。“无家可归”—对陷入困境的人，以及栖息地被剥夺的生物，甚至是没有巢的蜜蜂，这都不应该的。

随着时间的推移，蜜蜂曾经有不同的栖息地方。一根位于隐蔽地方的空树干能为蜜蜂提供一个理想的住处；人们也为它们提供例如蜂巢的家园；在以前，一个锅或篮子也行得通。在今天，制造蜂蜜的蜂，大多数是里面有可拆卸蜂框架的组合箱。

去年春天，儿子和我在我们的蜜蜂箱子里安放了两个小蜂群，安放过程颇为简单。我们把蜂框架从两个“蜂群”（nucs，核式蜂群）搬到我们的箱子里。蜜蜂们很快便在它们的新居安顿下来了。

我的妻子、子女和我一家曾经住在很多不同的地方，神都供应我们一切所需的。我们住在神呼召我们前往的地方，知道神一直都与我们同在，是我们得力的原因。

基于神丰盛的赐与，愿我们打开心灵和双手，去帮助那些今天需要一个家的人。

祷告

主啊，感谢你赐我们家园和很多其他的东西。求你以感恩和慷慨充满我们的心，好让我们能与有需要的人分享你的恩典。阿们。

Psalm 104:10-18

THURSDAY, JULY 2

A HOME FOR BEES

“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” —Acts 17:26

Our reading from Psalm 104 paints a picture of all God’s provisions for the creatures in his wonderful world. But when we look around us, it’s easy to find hungry people and other creatures without shelter or food. Homelessness—for beleaguered people, habitat-deprived creatures, or even hiveless bees—is not the way it’s supposed to be.

Honeybees have lived in a variety of homes over the course of time. A hollow log in a sheltered area can provide a great home for bees. People have also provided homes or hives for them. In earlier times a pot or basket would work well. Beehives for producing honey today are commonly made of stackable boxes with removable frames.

Last spring, my son and I installed two small colonies of honeybees in our bee boxes. The process is fairly simple. We transferred frames from a couple of “nucs” (nucleus colonies of bees) into our boxes. The bees quickly settled into their new home.

As a family, my wife and children and I have lived in many different places, and God has supplied all that we have needed. We find strength in knowing that God has been with us in all the places where we have been called to live.

From the abundance God has given, may we open our hearts and hands to help people who need a home today.

Lord, thank you for providing us with homes and so much more. Fill us with gratitude and generosity, that we may share with people in need. Amen.

创世记 1

1 起初，神创造天地。 2 地是空虚混沌，渊面黑暗，神的灵运行在水面上。 3 神说：“要有光。”就有了光。 4 神看光是好的，就把光暗分开了。 5 神称光为昼，称暗为夜。有晚上，有早晨，这是头一日。 6 神说：“诸水之间要有空气，将水分为上下。” 7 神就造出空气，将空气以下的水、空气以上的水分开了。事就这样成了。 8 神称空气为天。有晚上，有早晨，是第二日。 9 神说：“天下的水要聚在一处，使旱地露出来。”事就这样成了。 10 神称旱地为地，称水的聚处为海。神看着是好的。 11 神说：“地要发生青草和结种子的菜蔬，并结果子的树木，各从其类，果子都包着核。”事就这样成了。 12 于是地发生了青草和结种子的菜蔬，各从其类；并结果子的树木，各从其类，果子都包着核。神看着是好的。 13 有晚上，有早晨，是第三日。 14 神说：“天上要有光体，可以分昼夜，做记号，定节令、日子、年岁， 15 并要发光在天空，普照在地上。”事就这样成了。 16 于是神造了两个大光，大的管昼，小的管夜，又造众星。 17 就把这些光摆列在天空，普照在地上， 18 管理昼夜，分别明暗。神看着是好的。 19 有晚上，有早晨，是第四日。 20 神说：“水要多多滋生有生命的物，要有雀鸟飞在地面以上、天空之中。” 21 神就造出大鱼和水中所滋生各样有生命的动物，各从其类；又造出各样飞鸟，各从其类。神看着是好的。 22 神就赐福给这一切，说：“滋生繁多，充满海中的水，雀鸟也要多生在地上。” 23 有晚上，有早晨，是第五日。 24 神说：“地要生出活物来，各从其类；牲畜、昆虫、野兽，各从其类。”事就这样成了。 25 于是神造出野兽，各从其类；牲畜，各从其类；地上一切昆虫，各从其类。神看着是好的。 26 神说：“我们要照着我们的形象，按着我们的样式造人，使他们管理海里的鱼、空中的鸟、地上的牲畜和全地，并地上所爬的一切昆虫。” 27 神就照着自己的形象造人，乃是照着他的形象，造男造女。 28 神就赐福给他们，又对他们说：“要生养众多，遍满地面，治理这地，也要管理海里的鱼、空中的鸟和地上各样行动的活物。” 29 神说：“看哪，我将遍地上一切结种子的菜蔬和一切树上所结有核的果子，全赐给你们做食物。 30 至于地上的走兽和空中的飞鸟，并各样爬在地上有生命的物，我将青草赐给它们做食物。”事就这样成了。 31 神看着一切所造的都甚好。有晚上，有早晨，是第六日。

2026-07-01

起初……蜜蜂！

“我们因着信，就知道诸世界是藉神话造成的。这样，所看见的，并不是从显然之物造出来的。” - 希伯来书 11:3

我在大约20年前开始养殖蜜蜂，之后有一段日子停止了。不过，过了几年后，我又再次兴奋地重新养殖。

起初我遇到一个问题，就是我以前的蜂巢已成为“空蜂箱”了，我需要新的蜜蜂。于是我致电给我的养蜂朋友，向他订购两箱蜜蜂。他说他可以预备两个nucs（小型核式蜂群）小蜂群，来开始建立新的蜂巢。不过，我需要等一下，待它们成熟才能迁到我的蜂巢里。

我很想知道，当神创造这个奇妙的宇宙，把所有的东西安置妥当时，祂是否感到万分兴奋。《创世记》第1章的记载是如此丰富和充满生命，我们实在难以描述神的各种创造是多么广大和奇妙。在众多没有命名的生物中，蜜蜂是时常都会被人忽略的，但“起初……”神也创造了它们的啊。

然而真正奇妙的，就是神并没有订购第一群的蜜蜂，它们乃是按神的命令被造出来的呢！这就是《希伯来书》11章3节对我们的提醒。

出于神高超的创意和祂远超过我们的想像和能力，神创造了这个宇宙和一切的活物，包括蜜蜂。你和我都跟蜜蜂一样，都是源于起初的创造。我诚恳邀请你和我一起来观看这些受造物，并且为此赞叹。

祷告

创造主的灵，我们赞美感谢你，你创造万物—包括蜜蜂和我们，好让我们能够反映出你的良善和荣耀。阿们。

Genesis 1

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1

IN THE BEGINNING . . . BEES!

By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. —Hebrews 11:3

I started beekeeping about 20 years ago and then dropped out of it for a while. After a few more years, however, I got excited to start into it again.

A problem that occurred earlier was that my previous hives became “dead-outs.” I needed new honeybees. So I called my beekeeper friend and ordered a couple of boxes of bees. He said he could prepare a couple of “nucs” (small nucleus colonies) of bees to begin new hives, but I would need to wait till they were ready for transport to my beehives.

I wonder if God was excited to put all of the pieces in place when he created this wonderful world. Genesis 1 is so full and bursting with life that we can barely begin to describe the vast and marvelous variety of things God created. Among the many unnamed creatures, honeybees are often overlooked. “In the beginning . . .” God created them too.

And what’s truly amazing is that God did not order the first batch of honeybees. He created them at his command! This is what Hebrews 11:3 reminds us about.

Out of God’s creative genius and far beyond our imagining and ability, God created this universe and all living things, including bees. Along with bees, you and I have our beginning from that original creation. I invite you to join me in gathering glimpses of these things and to be amazed.

Creator Spirit, we praise and thank you for creating everything—including bees as well as us—so that we can reflect your goodness and glory. Amen.

以赛亚书 40:31；诗篇 103:1-5

31 但那等候耶和华的，必重新得力。他们必如鹰展翅上腾，他们奔跑却不困倦，行走却不疲乏。 1 我的心哪，你要称颂耶和华；凡在我里面的，也要称颂他的圣名！ 2 我的心哪，你要称颂耶和华，不可忘记他的一切恩惠。 3 他赦免你的一切罪孽，医治你的一切疾病。 4 他救赎你的命脱离死亡，以仁爱和慈悲为你的冠冕。 5 他用美物使你所愿的得以知足，以致你如鹰返老还童。

6月30日

等候仰望主

“但那等候耶和华的必从新得力。他们必如鹰展翅上腾；他们奔跑却不困倦，行走却不疲乏。” - 以赛亚书 40:31

仅凭人类的力量和意志，并不足以支撑我们站稳脚步，也不足以在我们必须坚持下去时提供动力。然而，更新是从主而来的。祂不仅赐予我们体力，更振奋我们的心灵，强健我们灵魂的“肌肉”。神使我们如鹰展翅，赐予我们力量与决心，让我们在服事祂的过程中，仰赖祂的刚强、智慧与权能，在生命之路上持续奔跑与行走。

有趣的是，以赛亚在此描述我们的行动时，采用的是递减的尺度—上腾、奔跑、行走—而非递增的。在我们看来，他似乎应该说我们得着力量去行走、奔跑、最后上腾。作者在这里有什么用意呢？

当我们回顾人生时会发现，我们只是偶尔如鹰般翱翔，有时能像运动员般奔跑，但绝大多数时候，我们是在日复一日地行走。最能耗尽我们力气、让我们精疲力竭的，并不是那少数几次的翱翔或奔跑，而是每日平淡重复的“行走”。鹰凭着强壮的羽翼冲向高空，快跑者以创纪录的速度冲过终点，而行路者则凭着坚韧不拔的毅力一步步前行。

然而，唯有主能使我们的力量焕然一新。神强健我们的灵魂，并赐下能力，使我们在这世上持续履行祂所托付的使命。

祷告

主啊，求你每日更新我们的力量。求你帮助我们在得胜中上腾，在忍耐中奔跑，并在与你同行的生命中忠心地行走。求你帮助我们奔跑你摆在我们面前的路程。阿们。

Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 103:1-5

TUESDAY, JUNE 30

HOPE IN THE LORD

Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. —Isaiah 40:31

The strength of human power and will is not enough to keep us on our feet. It’s not enough to keep us going when we need to carry on. But renewal comes from the Lord, who not only gives us strength but also lifts our spirits, toning the muscles of our souls. God makes us soar like eagles, providing us with the strength and determination to continue running and walking through life as we serve him, depending on his strength, wisdom, and power.

It is interesting that Isaiah describes our actions here on a decreasing scale—soar, run, walk—rather than on an increasing scale. It may seem to us that he should say we are strengthened to walk, run, and soar. What is the writer’s purpose here?

When we look back on the times of our lives, we can see that we soar like eagles once in a while. And sometimes we are able to run like athletes. But most of the time we walk along, day in and day out. What drains our strength and wears us out the most is not the few times we soar or run, but the daily routines in which we walk. The eagle, with its powerful wings, rises to lofty heights. The fast runner reaches the finish line in record time. The walker treads along with perseverance.

But the one who renews our strength is the Lord. God is the one who strengthens our soul and empowers us to keep on in our mission in this world.

Lord, renew our strength each day. Help us soar in victory, run with endurance, and walk faithfully in our life with you. Help us to finish the race you have set before us. Amen.

以赛亚书 40:29–30；诗篇 18:1-3

29 疲乏的，他赐能力；软弱的，他加力量。 30 就是少年人也要疲乏困倦，强壮的也必全然跌倒， 1 耶和华我的力量啊，我爱你！ 2 耶和华是我的岩石，我的山寨，我的救主，我的神，我的磐石，我所投靠的。他是我的盾牌，是拯救我的角，是我的高台。 3 我要求告当赞美的耶和华，这样我必从仇敌手中被救出来。

6月29日

神赐予力量

“疲乏的，他赐能力；软弱的，他加力量。就是少年人也要疲乏困倦；强壮的也必全然跌倒。” - 以赛亚书 40:29-30

这位宇宙中至高的主，祂既不疲乏也不困倦，却在我们软弱竭力之时赐下力量。我们常被各种软弱所困，力量很快就会枯萎消逝。在艰辛的人生旅途中，我们的肌肉与心灵都会感到疲惫。疲乏，是我们无法逃避的现实。即便是那些最投入、最有活力的人，也曾经历过灰心与倦怠的时刻。

从摩西到以利亚，从大卫到希西家，主所拣选的先知和君王，都曾有过感到软弱的时刻（参见《出埃及记》3-16章；《撒母耳记上》19-24章；《列王纪上》19章；《列王纪下》18-20章）。我们常常也会有同样的感受。

然而，神是我们力量的源头，是我们的避难所，我们的山寨。使徒保罗也对此深表认同：“我更喜欢夸自己的软弱，好叫基督的能力覆庇我。”（《哥林多后书》12:9）

神是我们的扶持者，当我们踉跄跌倒时，祂更新我们的力量。祂赦免我们的罪孽，医治我们的疾病。在生活的挣扎中，祂使我们站稳脚跟。祂为我们争战，并使我们得胜。主赐予我们生命，并供应我们生活所需的动力。唯有在祂里面，尽管我们依然软弱，却仍能砥砺前行。我们可以完全信靠祂。

祷告

主啊，在我们的软弱中，求你更新我们的力量。当我们疲乏时，求你扶持；在每一次挑战与艰辛中，求你托住我们；求你以那扶持万有的能力充满我们，使我们在你里面寻得力量与安息。阿们。

Isaiah 40:29-30; Psalm 18:1-3

MONDAY, JUNE 29

GOD GIVES STRENGTH

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. —Isaiah 40:29-30

The sovereign Lord of the universe, who does not grow tired or weary, gives strength when we are weak and exhausted. We are subject to many weaknesses. Our strength quickly withers and fades. Our muscles and minds grow weary on the hard journeys of life. Fatigue is an unavoidable reality for us. Even the most dedicated, energetic people have passed through times of discouragement and weariness.

From Moses to Elijah and from David to Hezekiah, the Lord’s chosen prophets and kings felt weakened at times (see Exodus 3-16; 1 Samuel 19-24; 1 Kings 19; 2 Kings 18-20). We can often feel the same way.

But God is the source of our strength. God is our refuge and fortress. The apostle Paul agrees: “I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

God is our sustainer, and he renews our strength when we stumble and fall. He forgives our sins and heals our diseases. God keeps us on our feet in the struggles of life. He fights our battles and gives us victory. The Lord gives us our life, and he supplies us the power to live. Only in him can we move forward, despite our weaknesses. We can trust in him.

Lord, in our weakness we ask that you renew our strength. Lift us when we are weary, uphold us in every challenge and hardship, and fill us with your sustaining power so that we may find strength and rest in you. Amen.

以赛亚书 40:28；使徒行传 17:24-26

28 你岂不曾知道吗？你岂不曾听见吗？永在的神耶和华，创造地极的主，并不疲乏，也不困倦，他的智慧无法测度。 24 创造宇宙和其中万物的神，既是天地的主，就不住人手所造的殿， 25 也不用人手服侍，好像缺少什么，自己倒将生命、气息、万物赐给万人。 26 他从一本造出万族的人，住在全地上，并且预先定准他们的年限和所住的疆界，

6月28日

永恒且不疲倦的神

“你岂不曾知道吗？你岂不曾听见吗？永在的神耶和华，创造地极的主，并不疲乏，也不困倦；他的智慧无法测度。” - 以赛亚书 40:28

人会精疲力竭，但主永不疲倦。人会出生与死亡，但神是不朽且永恒的。人是受造物，但神是创造主。人拥有些许知识，但神的见识远超我们的理解。人竟敢质疑神，但我们的论据在祂面前根本站不住脚。

在今天的经文中，先知以赛亚指出了神的永恒属性。祂在时间开始之前就已存在，且超越了时间，时间掌握在祂手中，神是那位昔在、今在、以后永在的。此外，以赛亚还强调了神的主权。祂是主，祂治理宇宙、万国、教会以及我们的生命。

神是创造地极的主，是整个宇宙的主宰。物质并非永恒，世界也不是自行产生的。我们的世界、太阳系，以及当我们望向天空时，所能见到的所有恒星与星系—这一切都出自神的手。

以赛亚还强调神是不疲乏也不困倦的，祂直到今日仍在做工。祂不需要重新得力，相反，祂赐力量给疲乏的人。

此外，神的聪明无法测度，祂的智慧与知识更是深不可测。我们所事奉的是一位多么伟大、奇妙的神啊！我们每日活在祂的眷顾中，可以全心信靠并顺服祂。

祷告

永恒的神，你既不疲倦又满有智慧，求你在我们的软弱中赐下力量。求你帮助我们信靠你的主权，安息在你的眷顾中，并顺服你的旨意。阿们。

Isaiah 40:28; Acts 17:24-26

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

THE ETERNAL, TIRELESS GOD

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. —Isaiah 40:28

People get exhausted, but the Lord never grows tired. People are born and die, but God is immortal and everlasting. People are creatures, but God is their Creator. People have some knowledge, but God's understanding is beyond our comprehension. People dare to question God, but our arguments are unreasonable.

In our text for today the prophet Isaiah points out the eternal nature of God. He is before and beyond time. Time is in his hands. God is the one who was, who is, and who is to come. Further, Isaiah emphasizes the sovereignty of God. He is the Lord. He governs the universe, the nations, the church, and our lives.

God is the Creator of the ends of the earth, the master of the whole universe. Matter is not eternal. The world did not arise by itself. Our world and its solar system and all the stars and galaxies we can see when we look into space—all of it has been created by God.

Isaiah also emphasizes that God is tireless. He is still at work today. He does not need to regain strength. He gives strength to the powerless.

In addition, God’s understanding is unsearchable. His wisdom and knowledge are unfathomable. What a great, amazing God we serve! We can trust and obey him as we live each day in his care.

Eternal God, tireless and wise, strengthen us in our weakness. Help us to trust in your sovereignty, to rest in your care, and to obey your will. Amen.

以赛亚书 40:27；诗篇 13

27 雅各啊，你为何说“我的道路向耶和华隐藏”？以色列啊，你为何言“我的冤屈神并不查问”？ 1 耶和华啊，你忘记我要到几时呢？要到永远吗？你掩面不顾我要到几时呢？ 2 我心里筹算，终日愁苦，要到几时呢？我的仇敌升高压制我，要到几时呢？ 3 耶和华我的神啊，求你看顾我，应允我，使我眼目光明，免得我沉睡至死， 4 免得我的仇敌说“我胜了他”，免得我的敌人在我摇动的时候喜乐。 5 但我倚靠你的慈爱，我的心因你的救恩快乐。 6 我要向耶和华歌唱，因他用厚恩待我。

6月27日

神子民的误解

“雅各啊，你为何说，我的道路向耶和华隐藏？以色列啊，你为何言，我的冤屈神并不查问？” - 以赛亚书 40:27

神的子民当时正处于灰心丧志、孤立无援的状态。尽管神已向他们彰显了祂的独特本质和伟大作为，但百姓仍在两件事上产生了误解。

他们认为神忘记了他们。他们开始怀疑神的慈爱与眷顾，他们的表现就像“自然神论者”（deists）一样，幻想神是遥远且冷漠的，对我们的挣扎漠不关心。

他们认为神对他们不公平。他们深信自己拥有某种特别的权利，而神却没有兑现。他们指责神疏忽职守、处事不公。他们未能从神的管教中看到祂慈爱的呵护。他们忽略了祂的诫命，也忘记了那要尽心、尽性、尽力爱祂，并要爱邻如己的呼召（《申命记》6:5；《利未记》19:18；并参阅《马太福音》22:34-40）。

神的管教绝非没有慈爱。生活中的风暴或许会来临，但这并不代表神不再眷顾。我们被神所爱，尽管我们有罪，祂仍满有恩典地赐予我们生命与赦免。我们蒙拣选，并非基于我们有多好或做了什么。我们得救是本乎恩，也因着信，并靠着耶稣为我们牺牲的大能。藉着耶稣，无论处境如何，我们都能以谦卑和感恩的心来到主面前。

祷告

慈爱的神，求你提醒我们，你永不离弃我们。当我们面临艰难时刻甚至管教时，求你教导我们谦卑与信靠。求你帮助我们安息在你的恩典与慈爱中。阿们。

Isaiah 40:27; Psalm 13

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

THE MISTAKES OF GOD'S PEOPLE

Why do you complain . . . ? Why do you say . . . “My way is hidden from the LORD; my cause is disregarded by my God”? —Isaiah 40:27

God’s people were discouraged and feeling helpless. Despite the majesty God had shown for them in the uniqueness of his being and the greatness of his work, the people were mistaken in two ways.

First, they thought God had forgotten them. They began to doubt God’s goodness and care. They were like deists, who imagine that God is distant and indifferent to our struggles.

Second, they thought God was being unfair to them. They believed they had special rights that were not being delivered to them. They accused God of neglect and injustice. They did not see God’s loving care in his discipline. They ignored his commands and his call to love him with all their heart, soul, and strength and to love their neighbors as themselves (Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18; see Matthew 22:34-40).

God’s discipline is not done without love. Storms in life may come, but they do not nullify God’s care. We are loved by God, and he graciously gives us life and offers us forgiveness despite our sins. We are chosen not on the basis of how good we are or what we have done. We are saved by grace through faith in the Lord and by the power of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Through Jesus we are freed to approach the Lord with humility and gratitude, no matter what our circumstances might be.

Loving God, remind us that you never forsake us. When we face hard times and even discipline, teach us humility and trust. Help us to rest in your grace and goodness. Amen.

以赛亚书 40:26；尼希米记 9:6

26 你们向上举目，看谁创造这万象？按数目领出，他一一称其名；因他的权能，又因他的大能大力，连一个都不缺。 6 你，唯独你，是耶和华。你造了天和天上的天并天上的万象，地和地上的万物，海和海中所有的，这一切都是你所保存的，天军也都敬拜你。

6月26日

大能的创造主

“你们向上举目，看谁创造这万象，按数目领出，他一一称其名……” - 以赛亚书 40:26

生活中的问题有时会将我们压得喘不过气，令我们无法抬头。但我们需要抬起目光，去思想神的伟大，和祂创造之工的威严。正如《诗篇》19章1节所说：“诸天述说神的荣耀，穹苍传扬祂的手段。” 同样地，《罗马书》1章20节见证道：“自从造天地以来，神的永能和神性是明明可知的，虽是眼不能见，但藉着所造之物就可以晓得……”

当神召集那繁星万象，并一一称呼其名时，没有一个会缺席。这位创造主不仅造了它们，还为每一个都起了名字。天上的星辰多得不可胜数，然而神呼唤每一个的名字，它们便随即显现。

神了解我们体内数以万亿计的每一个活细胞，祂数过我们的每一根头发。祂用权能的命令托住万有，“万有也靠祂而立”（《歌罗西书》1:17）。祂创造、维系并治理万物。万物的存在，都是为了称赞祂的荣耀。

你在哪些方面发现了主的伟大与权能呢？我们可以信靠祂，去应对我们可能遇到的任何问题。

祷告

创造之神啊，求你使我们从重担中抬起头，仰望你威严的大能。你扶持万有。当我们每天观察这世界中你的眷顾、智慧和奇妙作为时，求你加深我们对你的信心。阿们。

Isaiah 40:26; Nehemiah 9:6

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

POWERFUL CREATOR

Lift up your eyes . . . to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. . . . —Isaiah 40:26

Life’s problems can weigh us down so much that we may feel as if we can’t look up. But we need to lift our gaze to consider the greatness of God and the majesty of his creation. As Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” In a similar way, Romans 1:20 testifies, “Since the creation of the world God’s invisible attributes—his eternal power and divine nature— have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made. . . .”

When God summons the great multitude of stars, calling each one by name, not one is absent. The Creator not only made them but also named each one. There are more stars in the sky than we count. Yet God summons each one, calling them by name, and they promptly appear.

God knows every one of the trillions of living cells in our bodies. He knows every hair on our heads. He upholds all things by the power of his word. “In him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17). He has created, preserves, and governs all things. All things exist for the praise of his glory.

In what ways are you discovering how great and powerful the Lord is? We can trust in him to handle whatever problems we might encounter.

Creator God, lift our eyes from our burdens to your majestic power. You sustain all things. Deepen our faith in you as we observe your care, wisdom, and amazing work each day in the world around us. Amen.