Central Skagit Library District

The first book of Kings recounts the lives of the kings of Israel and Judea over a period of 400 years after the death of King David. His son, Solomon, features heavily in these chapters, first to show God's generous blessings to a faithful king and, later, as an example of the consequences of turning away from God. This book also details the split of the northern and southern tribes of Israel, and the subsequent appointment of the prophet Elijah...

The book of Nehemiah recounts the struggle of the Jewish people's return to Jerusalem after being held in captivity for 70 years. Unfortified and disorganized, the Jews look to Nehemiah, their temporary governor, to help them rebuild their city walls before the surrounding enemies attack. Nehemiah is an important example of the astounding successes that a good leader can achieve if he puts his trust in God.

The Book of Jubilees, sometimes called "Little Genesis", is an ancient Jewish book that retells many of the stories in Genesis and Exodus with some additional details. It has been known in the West only since the 1840s, when European travelers acquired manuscripts from monasteries in Ethiopia. Then, in 1949, a complete Hebrew manuscript was found amongst the Dead Sea Scrolls. It is considered canonical by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and one of the...

The genre of Psalms is Songs and Poetry of all kinds. It is written by multiple authors, David wrote 73, Asaph wrote 12, the sons of Korah wrote 9, Solomon wrote 3, Ethan, and Moses each wrote one (Ps. 90), and 51 of the Psalms are anonymous. They were written over the span of approximately 900 years (Beginning at the time of Moses 1440 B.C. and through the captivity in 586 B.C.). The Psalms include praises of joy, laments, blessings, and thanksgivings....

The genre of Proverbs is mainly "Proverbs" as the name describes, there are also some Parables and Poetry. This book was written mainly by Solomon, the wisest king ever to rule, however some of the later sections are written by Lemuel and Agur. It was written during Solomon's reign 970-930 B.C. He asked God for wisdom to rule God's nation and He granted the request. The main purpose of this book is to teach wisdom to God's people. Proverbs are short...

One of the most popular Biblical characters, the book of Daniel contains some of the most loved stories in the Bible. Sent into exile with the Jewish people, the story of Daniel is an encouraging example of the rewards which come from faithfulness and obedience to God in the midst of trying circumstances.

The book of 1 Timothy was written by the Apostle Paul to a young pastor by the same name, who was based in the church at Ephesus. Paul instructs him on the importance of not being led astray by false teachings and to keep his faith in God. This book contains clear directions on the organization and structure of a church as well as practical advice on how to lead one.

The book of Jonah was written by the prophet whom God sent to the wicked city of Nineveh in order to warn them of the judgment to come because of their sinful ways. One of the most beloved tales in the Bible, the story of Jonah teaches valuable lessons, including the consequences of running away from God and the magnitude of His forgiveness for repentant sinners.

Since its first publication in 1611, the King James Version of the Bible, with its flowing language and prose rhythm, has had a profound influence on the literature of the past 400 years and is the greatest English translation ever produced. English speakers around the world are acclaiming this recent recording by British narrator, Christopher Glyn, who's talented voice and knowledge of the text makes for a rich listening experience, capturing the...

The book of Nahum speaks of the prophet by the same name that was sent to the wicked city of Nineveh to prophesy of their impending doom because they had repented only temporarily and returned soon after to sin. Nahum portrays the dangers of false and inconsistent piety and faithfulness to God as well as the consequences which follow.