I’ve been participating in a bible study, a ten-part series on the Kings and Prophets of the Old Testament. It has really opened my eyes to the cohesiveness of the Old Testament. I guess I have always thought of the kings of Judah and Israel, the people of Israel, and the prophets as separate, independent entities. This study has helped me see how they are all intertwined together - and how much can be learned about the kings and their rule from the prophets. This study has also provided some much-needed background of the geopolitical landscape during Israel’s history - the Egyptions, the Assyrians, the Babylonians (Chaldeans), the Persians, and so on. The study has given me not only insights into God’s plan for Israel, but a renewed appreciation for the authority and authenticity of his word.